Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Bentley Archives

June 5, 2008

Bentley trainess to participate in charity run

Crewe -- Ten Bentley Graduate Trainees have challenged themselves to complete a 24-hour, 200 mile sponsored run from the Bentley Motors factory in Crewe, Cheshire, to the historic Brooklands Race Circuit in Weybridge, Surrey.

The charity run in aid of Leukaemia Research at Manchester Royal Infirmary will take place over three days from 10th to 12th June 2008 with the team members running 48-minute relays covering 7 miles each over 8 hours each day.

Continue reading "Bentley trainess to participate in charity run"

May 20, 2008

Bentley Hosts Exclusive Reception in Seville

Bentley Marbella and José Carlos de Salamanca, manager of the C. De Salamanca firm, hosted an exclusive event in Seville on May 15, inviting guests to admire the latest models from the British manufacturer, including the complete Bentley Continental series - featuring the stunning Continental GTC Convertible - and the exceptional Azure, representing the Arnage range.

The reception was held at Hotel Alfonso XIII’s Piazza Martini, later the guests were taken by horse-drawn carriage to dinner at Casa de Salinas and the flamenco-jazz musical show “Flamen&Co”.

Continue reading "Bentley Hosts Exclusive Reception in Seville"

May 12, 2008

2008 Fuel Economy Guide Available for Download

The EPA has issued a comprehensive PDF guide to fuel economy of all 2008 vehicles, which you can download by right-clicking here.

In today's gas market, buyers are more sensitive than ever about buying cars that get good mileage, and more important, they want the government ratings to be as accurate as possible -- nobody wants to buy a vehicle that gets 10% worse mileage in the real world than the sticker rating.

To address this situation, the EPA has started using an updated test to assign more accurate MPG ratings to new vehicles, and you can learn about that by watching the video in this post.

May 7, 2008

James Bond drives a Bentley

In a unique collaboration between three of Britain’s iconic brands – James Bond, Bentley Motors and Penguin Books - a special, limited edition of the new Bond book Devil May Care will be published on 28th May. Written by Sebastian Faulks Devil May Care is one of the most eagerly anticipated publications of 2008.

Cars and James Bond have always had a strong association and, contrary to popular belief, Bond’s preference has historically been firmly with Bentley Motors. He owned three Bentleys in the course of the fourteen original novels written by Ian Fleming.

Continue reading "James Bond drives a Bentley"

May 3, 2008

Bentley Apprentices Build Electric Race Car

Crewe -- A Bentley Motors apprentice team has won a special “Spirit of Greenpower” award for its performance in the Greenpower Corporate Challenge which took place at Goodwood race circuit.

The Bentley apprentice team designed, engineered and built the electric powered car which they entered into the Greenpower Challenge as well as a season of “F24+” racing. The Bentley Greenpower car is called Continental DC (Direct Current) and runs off a 24-volt motor supplied by two 12-volt batteries.

Continue reading "Bentley Apprentices Build Electric Race Car"

Beltley increases profiability in first quarter

Crewe -- Bentley Motors has announced its financial results for the first quarter, ending 31 March 2008, reporting consistent profitability despite a slight decrease in sales.

Bentley net revenue decreased by €15m or 4.4% to €338mn compared to the first quarter of 2007, primarily due to exchange rate effects. However, operating profit increased by €1m to €39m compared to the same period in 2007.

Continue reading "Beltley increases profiability in first quarter"

April 24, 2008

First Bentley showroom opens in St. Petersburg

Berlin/St. Petersburg -- Bentley Motors is further expanding its dealer network in the growing Russian market and today opens a new showroom in St. Petersburg. The official press conference, marking the opening of the new dealership to customers, was hosted by Michael Mayer, Regional Director Europe.

The St. Petersburg launch marks the third showroom of the legendary British automobile manufacturer in Russia. It joins the two existing showrooms in Moscow, at Tretyakovsky proezd near the Red Square and in Barvikha Luxury Village.

Continue reading "First Bentley showroom opens in St. Petersburg"

April 23, 2008

Volkswagen Group reports record global sales

WOLFSBURG, Germany - The Volkswagen Group started the second quarter of 2008 with another global record: Under increasingly difficult market conditions, Europe’s largest automaker expects to deliver some 550,000 vehicles in April, an increase of 7.0 percent compared with April 2007.

As a result, Group deliveries during the first four months of the year will exceed the two million mark for the first time.

Continue reading "Volkswagen Group reports record global sales"

Volkswagen publishes biodiversity mission statement

WOLFSBURG, Germany -- Retaining biological diversity is one of the great ecological challenges of the 21st century. Without the commitment of industry, the United Nations would not be able to meet its target of stopping or at least slowing down the extinction of species.

As a globally active industrial company, Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft engages in protecting biodiversity.

Continue reading "Volkswagen publishes biodiversity mission statement"

April 22, 2008

Volkswagen Group Launches Environmental Microsite

HERNDON, Va. -- Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. today launched responsiblemobility.com, a microsite focused on the company's sustainable mobility strategy.

The new microsite comes as the Group's Audi and Volkswagen brands prepare to embark upon their 50-state clean diesel strategy, and as the Group continues work on next generation alternative energy innovations such as biofuels and high temperature fuel cells.

Continue reading "Volkswagen Group Launches Environmental Microsite"

April 20, 2008

Bentley opens new German showroom in Hanover

Hanover -- Lower Saxony’s regional capital has gained another motoring attraction. The dream cars of the British luxury manufacturer Bentley are now sparkling in the newly furbished showroom in Hanover’s Podbielskistraße 322. This means Bentley’s dealership network in Germany has increased to a total of 11 outlets.

As part of the opening a number of very rare classic cars will be displayed at the premises of Bentley Hanover. Guests will see not only the oldest Bentley that still exists but also the Bentley Speed 8, the original race car that won the 24 hours of Le Mans in 2003.

Continue reading "Bentley opens new German showroom in Hanover"

April 1, 2008

Bentley Motors appoints new dealer partner in Sweden

Berlin / Stockholm -- Bentley Motors is pleased to announce the appointment of Callisma AB as new authorized Bentley dealer in Sweden. After a successful partnership with Volkswagen Group Sverige for 5 years, the Bentley business will be handed over on 1 April.

In the autumn of 2003, Bentley Stockholm opened its showroom on Strandvägen in Stockholm’s city centre. Since then, the Bentley brand has seen a continuous growth in the Swedish market, attracting the interest and appreciation of the press and public alike.

Continue reading "Bentley Motors appoints new dealer partner in Sweden"

March 13, 2008

Bentley reports record sales, profitability

Crewe -- Bentley Motors has announced its financial results for the year ending 31 December 2007, reporting record revenue and operating profit. For the calendar year, Bentley increased its net revenue by €36m or 2.7% compared with 2006, to set a new record of €1.37bn. Operating profit increased by €18m or 13.1% to a new operating profit record of €155m.

These results reflect Bentley’s record sales performance last year when the company surpassed the 10,000 unit mark for the first time.

Continue reading "Bentley reports record sales, profitability"

March 4, 2008

Bentley outlines environmental strategy

Geneva/Crewe -- Bentley Motors today unveiled a far-reaching environmental strategy to reduce CO2 emissions and dramatically improve fuel economy.

Bentley will become the first manufacturer in its segment and one of the first in the world to deliver renewable-fuel vehicles throughout its range, along with substantial powertrain improvements.

Continue reading "Bentley outlines environmental strategy"

March 1, 2008

Bentley Motors welcomes new Regional Director for Europe

Crewe/Berlin -- Bentley Motors is pleased to confirm the appointment of Michael Mayer as new Regional Director for Europe.

He takes up the role on March 1 after heading the Volkswagen Group’s worldwide wholesale development activities. He joins Bentley’s European operation at an exciting time for the company.

Continue reading "Bentley Motors welcomes new Regional Director for Europe"

February 20, 2008

'Naim for Bentley’ set to achieve world’s best in-car audio experience

Bentley Motors has entered into partnership with Naim Audio, one of the world’s most respected creators of hi-fi systems, to produce an unparalleled in-car sound system for all its future models.

After 18 months of research and development, the result is an ‘as-live’ in-car audio experience which remains true to both Bentley and Naim’s philosophy of no compromise in the search for quality.

From design concept to production, Bentley and Naim’s engineers worked closely together to create the sound system, which is carefully tuned for each model using the most advanced acoustic analysis.

Continue reading "'Naim for Bentley’ set to achieve world’s best in-car audio experience"

February 19, 2008

Bentley Motors Expands External Affairs Team

Bentley Motors has announced two appointments to their global External Affairs team.

Michael Hawes has been appointed to the newly created position of Director of Corporate and Government Affairs. Mike will be establishing and leading a new team which will strengthen the Company's external affairs presence as it continues to grow in markets around the world.

Continue reading "Bentley Motors Expands External Affairs Team"

February 2, 2008

Current Auto Rebates Has All the Updated Rebates!

With auto sales down 4.3% in January 2008, many automakers are increasing the rebate and incentive offers they have on the hoods of their vehicles.

Yet keeping track of all the rebate programs can be difficult work, which is why we began publishing Current Auto Rebates, the Internet's first document that lists every rebate program for every vehicle for same in the United States.

This 13-page PDF makes it easy for you to look up rebates on any model you're interested in, and even allows you to contact your local dealer who will give you a free price quote on the ride of your choice.

Since rebate programs can change several times per month, you may want to sign up for free updates to the publication -- when we update the document you'll get an email from us letting you know a refreshed version is available for you to download.

And if someone you know is currently shopping for a new vehicle, you may want to download a copy and email it to them -- they'll thank you for doing so!

January 30, 2008

With Home Prices Dropping, Car Prices Are Sure to Follow

It's accepted wisdom now that overall auto sales will drop in 2008. This is seen as a function of the housing bust, during which as much as 20% of new car purchases were funded by residential real estate profit, home equity cashouts and the general euphoria in real estate related industries.

Now that home prices are dropping -- and will continue to do so until they fall in line with median income -- we believe the average new vehicle transaction price will drop as well. If houses can fall 10%-30% in value, why not cars?

In November we ran a story from Comerica Bank stating the average transaction price of a new vehicle was $29,024. Our projection is this number will fall below $25,000, perhaps in 2009 if not this year, for several reasons:

1. Less money to spend. The option of taking cash out of a home to finance a new purchase is gone. The psychology of spending "free money" to buy a luxe ride will give way to folks actually having to make the payment out of their own pocket. And with many people paying even more for housing due to adjustable rates, they will choose cheaper rides.

2. Gas prices. While $3 a gallon gas isn't as draconian as five bucks, it will have an effect over time. People are already choosing more efficient crossovers and smaller SUVs over the big buses, and V8s are going out of favor. Look for more people to choose V6s in cars and for four-cylinders to pick up in popularity.

3. Negative equity. A greater percentage of folks are upside down in their cars, and have been rolling their balances into new loan agreements. To catch up, their new purchases will have to be cheaper and it's going to take years to eat away at the balance.

4. New frugality. In a tough economy, the value of money becomes more dear. People will start thinking twice about how much money they spend. They will choose cheaper cars, perhaps with more options, but the luxe-marques are in for a rough ride.

5. New wage structures. The Detroit car companies have made big headlines with their new labor deals, that allow them to replace higher paid union workers with new hires at a lower wage scale. The higher wages translated into higher sticker prices; the lower wages will allow for slimmer price hikes and even reductions.

6. Battle for fewer consumers. Don't let the tough talk fool you. As fewer cars are sold throughout 2008, the rebate war will kick into full swing -- and spiffs will help bring down the average transaction price.

This last reason is why we launched Current Auto Rebates, a site that publishes all the rebates for every model in a single PDF file, to make bargain hunting that much easier.

January 28, 2008

Bentley Brooklands Auctioned for $450,000 At Naples Wine Fest

NAPLES, Fla. -- The first Bentley Brooklands coupe destined for the U.S. market has been purchased for $450,000 at a charity auction held during the 2008 Naples Winter Wine Festival.

The $14 million from the auction sale will directly benefit the Naples Children and Education Foundation, which supports charitable and educational programs to improve the physical, emotional and educational lives of underprivileged or at-risk children.

Continue reading "Bentley Brooklands Auctioned for $450,000 At Naples Wine Fest"

January 23, 2008

Harness the power of free price quotes!

Many of you have seen the link to get a free dealer price quote on our pages, as well as in our Current Auto Rebates report.

The free price quote is one of the best tools for savvy vehicle shoppers -- it's convenient, and there is absolutely no obligation to buy anything. Here are some of the other advantages:

-- You are essentially putting a bid out to local new vehicle dealers to compete for your business. In many cases, several dealers will respond to your price quote request. Armed with your knowledge of MSRP and rebates, you can then have dealers compete on price for your car buying dollars!

-- You can fill out a free price quote for each vehicle you are cross-shopping.

-- Schedule your test drive appointments. Just think, you know longer have to suffer the indignity of walking into a dealership and either being ignored or descended upon like a piece of fresh meat.

-- The dealership will have the vehicle you are interested in ready and waiting [if they are pros, which many are nowadays, given the competition of the Internet.]

-- You will be doing 90% of the work that goes into buying a new vehicle from the convenience of your own computer -- how civilized is that!

Get your free dealer price quote today!

Current Auto Rebates -- What You Don't Know Could Cost You Thousands of Dollars

Want to see all the rebates on every make and model vehicle for sale in the United States?

Current Auto Rebates has just launched a valuable 13-page PDF report that is the first of its kind -- listing all rebates for all vehicles. What you don't know about current auto rebates could cost you thousands of dollars!

Aren't you tired of clicking through page after page on web sites to find the information you need? This report has everything you need in one convenient, easy-to-use package.

Check out CurrentAutoRebates.com and get your free PDF report today!

January 16, 2008

Bentley design director Dirk van Braeckel wins Euro style award

Crewe/Brussels -- Dirk van Braeckel, director of design at Bentley Motors, has been awarded the prestigious European Automotive Design Award by Designers (Europe), in partnership with FEBIAC, the Belgian automotive industry association.

Previous winners of the award, which honours excellence and originality in automotive design, include Giorgietto Giugiaro in 2004 and Sergio Pininfarina in 2006.

Continue reading "Bentley design director Dirk van Braeckel wins Euro style award"

January 14, 2008

Bentley sets new global sales record in 2007

Strong growth in both emerging and traditional markets takes Bentley above 10,000 units for the first time. New sales record set in the UK market

With retail sales of 10,014 units worldwide, Bentley has completed the best year in its history. Overall volume grew by 7%, with increases in almost all major markets: +7% in the UK, +4% in North America, +7% in Europe, +18% in the Asia Pacific region, and +93% in China alone.

Continue reading "Bentley sets new global sales record in 2007"

December 12, 2007

Bentley Academy wins 2007 National Training Award

Bentley Motors has won a 2007 National Training Award for its creation of a new generation of managers at the company based in Crewe, Cheshire.

The awards are the UK’s Number One accolade for business, organisations and individuals who have achieved lasting excellence and success through training and learning.

The Becoming a Bentley Manager (BBM) programme was designed, initially, by its own ‘Academy’ with nine candidates in mind.

Continue reading "Bentley Academy wins 2007 National Training Award"

December 8, 2007

Bentley Showcases the Art of Design at 2007 Art Basel Miami Beach

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Bentley Motors, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of handcrafted, personally commissioned luxury automobiles, announces a unique collaboration with leaders in the world of design during Art Basel Miami Beach 2007.

Art Basel Miami Beach is the most important art show in the U.S., combining an international selection of top galleries with an exciting program of special exhibitions and crossover events bringing together the worlds of music, film, architecture and design.

Continue reading "Bentley Showcases the Art of Design at 2007 Art Basel Miami Beach"

November 8, 2007

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November 1, 2007

Bentley Motors Announces Launch of 'Crewe Genuine Parts' Website

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Bentley Motors today announced the launch of www.crewegenuineparts.com, the company's newly launched web portal, which will allow public access to more than 50,000 genuine replacement parts for all Bentley and Rolls-Royce cars produced at the company's Crewe, England factory from 1955 to the present day.

The new web portal is an outgrowth of Bentley's efforts to ensure that the value of customers' Crewe-built vehicles are maintained by using only genuine replacement parts.

It is but one example of the company's commitment to providing customers of Crewe-built vehicles the very best ownership experience, even long after the initial sale.

Continue reading "Bentley Motors Announces Launch of 'Crewe Genuine Parts' Website"

October 26, 2007

Bentley Opens New Showroom in Milan

Milan – Shaping the present, yet grounded in tradition. This philosophy always has distinguished Bentley Motors and is strongly reflected in the new site of Bentley Milano to be opened today in the presence of Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen.

Since the marque was established over eight decades ago in 1919, each and every Bentley has been an example of how an ingrained sense of traditional craft and contemporary engineering and design go hand-in-hand to create an exceptional car desired by enthusiasts the world over.

Continue reading "Bentley Opens New Showroom in Milan"

Bentley turnover reaches €1 billion after third quarter

Crewe -- Bentley reports continued success in its third quarter results with increases in sales volume, revenue and operating profit.

Turnover in the period January to September 2007 increased to more than €1 billion, an improvement of 19.3 per cent over the same period last year. Operating profit also improved by €62 million, year-on-year, to €107 million.

Continue reading "Bentley turnover reaches €1 billion after third quarter"

October 23, 2007

Consumer Guide Announces 2008 Best Buys

LINCOLNWOOD, Ill. -- Consumer Guide Automotive, the leading publisher of authoritative, objective new and used car reviews for 40 years, today announced the recipients of its 2008 Best Buy and Recommended Awards.

The annual list, designed to make car buying easier for consumers, represents the best overall values in 18 categories and includes a total of 87 vehicles.

The editors then use objective criteria, such as price, features, performance, accommodations, fuel economy, reliability records and resale value, to assess each vehicle. The winners are divided into two categories: The Consumer Guide Automotive "Best Buy" and "Recommended" winners.

Continue reading "Consumer Guide Announces 2008 Best Buys"

October 22, 2007

Bentley Adds Luxe Children Togs to Swag Collection

Autumn Winter 2007 represents a landmark for the Bentley Collection and we are delighted to present our new range in time for the busy holiday gift-giving period. For the first time, we have introduced a Children’s gift and clothing range.

In addition, we are continuing to grow the product range aimed at women, and we have also developed a set of unique gift items.

For budding young drivers, the Children’s Collection offers a first foray into Bentley’s special brand of magic. Our Team Bentley Play Suit is a replica of the suit worn by Bentley’s Le Mans-winning pit crew, complete with Team Bentley logos – a must-have for racing fans.

Our new super-soft fleeces, with Bentley zips and embroidered logos, polo shirts of pique cotton, and our T-shirt with the classic green ‘Bentley Blower’ logo image across the back are guaranteed to be favourite gifts in any Christmas stocking. A lightweight cotton baseball cap with silver thread logo completes the range.

Continue reading "Bentley Adds Luxe Children Togs to Swag Collection"

October 12, 2007

Prestigious new Bentley dealership opens in Latvia

Crewe / Riga -- Bentley Motors, whose powerful grand tourers are renowned throughout the world for their luxury and performance, today opens the latest dealership in its worldwide network in Riga, capital of Latvia.

Bentley Riga is the latest addition to Bentley Motors’ expansion into Eastern Europe after the opening of Bentley Istanbul, Turkey in May this year.

Continue reading "Prestigious new Bentley dealership opens in Latvia"

October 8, 2007

Bentley designer director honoured in prestigious Belgian award

Crewe / Antwerp -- Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design for Bentley Motors, has been chosen as the 2007 laureate of Antwerp’s Christoffel Plantin award, which honours Belgian citizens whose cultural, artistic or scientific activities contribute to the country’s prestige abroad.

Past laureates of the award, which was founded in 1968, include world-renowned Belgian academics, doctors, lawyers and engineers, but this is the first time that a representative of the automotive industry has been honoured. Dirk van Braeckel will receive his award on October 8th from the Governor of Antwerp in the city’s Provincial House.

Continue reading "Bentley designer director honoured in prestigious Belgian award"

Bentley boosts fortunes of young engineer

Crewe -- For the second consecutive year, Bentley Motors has been proud to sponsor the Award for the Best Mechanical Engineering Student at The Science, Engineering & Technology Student of the Year Awards, held in London last night.

Bentley’s Member of the Board - Engineering, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, presented the award – which carries £15,000-worth of sponsorship – to Chris Lamming from University of Bath (pictured) for his paper on Analysis and Computation of Regularly-spaced Localised Buckles in Pipelines.

Continue reading "Bentley boosts fortunes of young engineer"

October 5, 2007

Bentley Motors Announces Headquarters Move to Boston

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Bentley Motors, Inc. today announced that it will relocate its North American corporate headquarters to Boston, MA. as part of a strategic realignment of its regional operations.

The move, coupled with a realignment of the Company's North American structure, will provide Bentley with an even sharper focus on its key market and customers and increased cooperation with its central operations in Crewe, England.

Continue reading "Bentley Motors Announces Headquarters Move to Boston"

September 26, 2007

'Buy American' Desire Drives Many New Shoppers to Purchase Domestic Rather Than Import Nameplates

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Despite the fact that import vehicles make up nearly 49 percent of the U.S. auto market, the country of origin still plays a crucial role in consumer choice of which make and model to purchase, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Escaped Shopper Study released today. The study provides a comprehensive evaluation of why consumers may consider one model, but ultimately purchase another.

Nearly 80 percent of new-vehicle buyers limit their consideration set to include only domestic models or only import models. Among those who cross-shop for both import and domestic models, consumers who ultimately buy a domestic frequently do so because they simply decide they do not want an import. Buyers of domestic new-vehicles also frequently decide against import brands for financial reasons, most often citing that the import didn't offer aggressive rebates or other incentives.

Continue reading "'Buy American' Desire Drives Many New Shoppers to Purchase Domestic Rather Than Import Nameplates"

August 29, 2007

Bentley Announces New Leadership Team for North American Market

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Bentley are pleased to confirm the appointment of two key individuals to lead North America, the company's biggest market.

In addition to his role as Worldwide Operations Director, Geoff Dowding, 47, will also assume the position of Vice President, Bentley Motors, Inc. Geoff has been with Bentley for the last seven years and has held a number of senior executive roles. Before this he worked at Porsche and Harley-Davidson.

Christophe Georges, 40, will take up the position of Chief Operating Officer for Bentley Motors, Inc. based in the U.S. A native of France, Christophe has extensive experience of the Bentley marque having worked in various roles for the past nine years. He is currently Managing Director for Bentley Europe, based in Berlin.

During his time in the Berlin office Christophe has presided over a 20-fold increase in Bentley sales and has been responsible for the introduction of the marque to six new markets including the fast growing Russian market. Christophe was instrumental in guiding the investment plans of all 34 European dealers over the past five years.

Prior to his Bentley career Christophe worked in sales operations for Rover Europe.

Continue reading "Bentley Announces New Leadership Team for North American Market"

August 25, 2007

Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives

WESTLAKE VILLAGE -- As competition in the auto finance market intensifies, many lenders are deploying full-spectrum strategies, which consists of lenders servicing both prime and sub-prime customers, to increase volume and market share and to improve service to their dealers, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Dealer Financing Satisfaction Study released today.

The study finds that many prime finance providers are making the transition to the sub-prime market, with 57 percent of dealers utilizing traditionally prime lenders for sub-prime customers. Conversely, only 33 percent of dealers report using traditional sub-prime lender services for their prime customers.

Continue reading "Report: Auto Finance Providers Exploring Direct Lending Initiatives"

August 22, 2007

Record Breaking $60 Million Haul at Pebble Beach Auction

In above pic, this 1956 Ferrari 250 GT sold for $1,100,000. It was one of many classic vintage cars that sold for over one million dollars at the Gooding and Company Pebble Beach Auction.

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. -- Gooding and Company announced its top results from the company's first-ever two-night Pebble Beach Auction event this weekend, held annually following the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

A high-energy atmosphere in the Damon Drescher (Partner and Sr. Creative Art Director) designed tent set the tone for a capacity filled crowd of bidders at both Saturday and Sunday's auctions that garnered a record breaking more than $60 million dollars in sales.

The multiple record-breaking sales included the 1931 Blower Bentley from the E. Ann Klein Estate for $4.51 million dollars along with a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider, which sold for $4,455,000.00.

Continue reading "Record Breaking $60 Million Haul at Pebble Beach Auction"

August 15, 2007

Volkswagen Corp. Boast Eight Drop Top Models, From Lamborghini and Bentley to Audi and VW

Wolfsburg, Germany - It is high summer and so it is high season for convertibles. According to a recent study by the German Federal Vehicle Registration Authority, most of them are being driven around the Starnberger See and in the Hochtaunus region.

Meanwhile, the biggest lineup of open-air cars – worldwide – is offered by the Volkswagen Corporation. The convertible and roadster products of the brands Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini and Volkswagen span a range of no less than eight models with 39 engine variants.

Based on the motto “as you like”, there is the eternally youthful New Beetle convertible from Volkswagen as well as the kingly Bentley Azure – the uncompromising Audi TT Roadster, the Lamborghini Murciélago Roadster conceptualized on the Formula car level, the clever Volkswagen Eos, the breathtaking Bentley Continental GTC, the classic and timeless Audi A4 convertible and the powerful and imposing Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder.

Continue reading "Volkswagen Corp. Boast Eight Drop Top Models, From Lamborghini and Bentley to Audi and VW"

August 10, 2007

Report: Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Vehicle Dependability

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif. -- Buick ties with Lexus to rank highest among nameplates in vehicle dependability -- marking the first time in 12 years that another brand ties with Lexus for the highest-rank position, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM) (VDS) released today.

The study, which measures problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old (2004 model year) vehicles, finds that Buick and Lexus tie for the top rank position with a score of 145 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). Following in the top five rankings are Cadillac, Mercury and Honda, respectively.

Continue reading "Report: Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Vehicle Dependability"

August 1, 2007

Special Edition Bentley Continental GT tops 200 mph

The Continental GT Speed is the most powerful production Bentley ever and the first to top 200mph (322km/h). A potent addition to the company’s highly successful Continental series, the GT Speed extends the appeal of the Continental GT coupe to driving enthusiasts who place a high value on outright performance and agile handling.

The exterior style of the new Continental GT and GT Speed models is defined by a wider, lower air intake and more upright radiator grille that also provide increased airflow to the more powerful GT Speed. Its 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Continental GT, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system.

Continue reading "Special Edition Bentley Continental GT tops 200 mph"

July 31, 2007

Bentley adds two Swiss service centers

Crewe -- Bentley Motors is proud to announce that its network of Swiss showrooms and repairers has been extended with the addition of two authorised service and repair workshops. The increased availability of service will ensure even greater customer satisfaction throughout the country.

Bentley has a long-standing tradition of serving its Swiss customers. The all-wheel drive Continental range is particularly popular for its depth of ability through the Swiss winter and the marque’s customer base is well served by three highly successful Bentley dealers in Zurich, Geneva and Lugano and an authorised repair workshop in Lausanne.

Continue reading "Bentley adds two Swiss service centers"

July 30, 2007

Bentley and Cartier join forces for a swank shindig in Spain

Bentley Marbella and Cartier hosted a lavish party at La Zagaleta Private Golf Club in Benahavis to introduce the Bentley Azure, the British carmaker’s peerless new luxury convertible, and a delectable selection of Cartier’s jewellery masterpieces.

In his presentation Jose Carlos de Salamanca, Bentley’s Licensed Dealer in Marbella, pointed out the alluring characteristics of the Bentley Azure, which combining as it does the style and sophistication of a deluxe convertible with outstanding high performance and refined handling.

Continue reading "Bentley and Cartier join forces for a swank shindig in Spain"

Bentley Reports Strong First Half Financials

Crewe -- For the fourth year running, Bentley Motors has recorded an increase in global sales volumes.

The first half of 2007 saw an increase in sales of 18.8 per cent over the same period in 2006, with over 5600 customers taking delivery of a car.

Turnover, at Euro 739 million, was 24 per cent higher than the first half of 2006, and operating profit, at Euro 85 million, was also significantly higher than the first six months of the previous year.

Continue reading "Bentley Reports Strong First Half Financials"

Car Buyer's Notebook Now Available in Nine Languages!

Thanks to the Babel Fish translation software from AltaVista, Car Buyer's Notebook is now available in translation for nine languages. If you include English.

The alternate languages include: Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Italian and Portugese.

All you have to do is click on the appropriate flag in the box that is on the right hand side of the site.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Spanish.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in French.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Japanese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Chinese.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in German.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Korean.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Italian.

Click here to read Car Buyer's Notebook in Portugese.

July 4, 2007

Get the Car Buyer's Notebook Widget!

Aren't you tired of constantly navigating to sites, several times a day to keep up with the latest news?

I know I am -- and that's why I love widgets.

Widgets are these cool pieces of desktop "furniture" [like ours at right] that you can add to your computer -- and thus have a continuous live feed of updated news -- without going to a website to scan for cool stuff. [The widget can either be "parked" on top of all windows, or left underneath -- they're customizable, too!]

In the case of Car Buyer's Notebook, we have created just such a widget for you to download to your desktop -- and when you see a story you're really interested in, click on the title and it will take you to a new browser window to see the whole thing.

Getting our widget is simple -- there's only two steps:

1. Go to Springwidgets and download the widget software.

2. Go to this page, and get the Car Buyer's Notebook widget by clicking on the little green cog underneath the widget itself. This will add our widget to your widget menu.

And you will be in automotive widget heaven!

June 15, 2007

Bentley Brooklands Celebrates Family Reunion

New Bentley Brooklands coupe celebrates circuit’s centenary

Crewe, 15th June 2007 … This week, as the Brooklands track celebrates its centenary, the most famous of the vintage Bentley racing cars are reunited at the circuit for the first time in the company of the very latest Bentley Brooklands coupe.

Bentley’s proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal Bentley Boys on this famous racetrack in the 1920s and 30s, was the inspiration for the new Bentley Brooklands coupe, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era.

During this period, Brooklands was the scene of some of Bentley’s greatest triumphs, as the Bentley Boys raced their machines on the treacherous Members’ Banking.

Two of the most successful Bentley racers at Brooklands were Speed Six models with special Vanden Plas bodies, known affectionately as ‘Old Number Two’ and ’Old Number Three’. These were the only cars created by Bentley specifically for competition purposes.

Continue reading "Bentley Brooklands Celebrates Family Reunion"

June 11, 2007

Bentley Brooklands production limited to 550 units globally

Since its launch at the Geneva Salon in March, the new Bentley Brooklands has captured the hearts of customers across the globe, with the first year’s production of this hand-assembled, luxury coupe already sold out.

Speaking at the recent opening of a new dealership in Istanbul, Turkey, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, Bentley’s Chairman and Chief Executive, said:

“The interest in Brooklands since its unveiling in Geneva has exceeded our expectations. It is surely destined to become a collectors’ classic.”

Continue reading "Bentley Brooklands production limited to 550 units globally"

June 1, 2007

Bentley Barcelona: Strengthening Presence in Spanish Market

Bentley Motors, one of the most exclusive brands in automotive history, is confident that it will create a permanent market niche in the city of Barcelona. The company places its confidence in the Quadis Group to open a showroom in the northern section of the Catalonian capital. There, one will be able to find the most exclusive Bentley models.

The new sales outlet, the fourth in the Spanish market including the Canary Islands, will cover the northeast and east coast of Spain. Bentley Barcelona marks an important milestone in Bentley’s plans to expand its European market and reinforce its presence in the south of Europe.

Continue reading "Bentley Barcelona: Strengthening Presence in Spanish Market"

May 29, 2007

Bentley Motors showroom opens in Istanbul

Bentley Motors is proud to unveil exciting plans for a stunning new showroom which will open shortly on the banks of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey.

The new showroom will mark the entry of Bentley Motors into the Turkish market and highlights the importance of the developing Eastern markets to the continued growth of the brand. The opening of Bentley Istanbul will bring the marque’s network of dealerships to 141 in 46 countries worldwide and is testimony to the extraordinary success Bentley has enjoyed with its compelling range of cars.

Continue reading "Bentley Motors showroom opens in Istanbul"

May 14, 2007

Bentley's in the golfing game

Bentley Continental Cup

Team USA are the proud winners of the Bentley Continental Cup! After two days of totally focussed, dedicated playing, the Americans, captained by Scott Langevin, were able to consolidate their lead over the Europeans, despite some troublesome gusty winds on the last day of the Final and swung their way quite unwaveringly to the trophy on April 27th, 2007.

The final score was USA 10, Europe 2. In this unique invitation golf tournament Bentley enthusiasts from the USA and Europe had the chance to challenge each other, following the Ryder Cup format – four participants from the UK and four from Continental Europe competed against eight Americans. This first ever world final arranged by Bentley was held at the Pevero Golf Club in Sardinia, considered one of the finest courses in the world, incorporating spectacular views and a demanding design of the greens.

The course was certainly a match for many of the players, of whom some hold handicaps as low as 4, 1 or even -2 – game qualifications that would give a professional golfer pause to wonder at the amateur talent out there Colin Montgomerie might have shared the sentiment. A world-class golfer himself and contestant in eight consecutive Ryder Cups, Colin accompanied the participants of the Bentley Continental Cup during their training day on April 24th to offer advice and share pro experiences with them.

The Bentley finalists were excited to be able to play a few holes individually with a master of the game and to receive pointers during an informal clinic, so vital in preparation for the tournament. It was certainly an unforgettable experience for any golfer hoping to improve, and to win.

Continue reading "Bentley's in the golfing game"

Vintage Bentleys head to Turkey for twin celebration

Sixteen vintage Bentleys will cross an entire continent this month when the Bentley Calista Rally 2007

The 4000km event marks the opening of two new landmarks in Turkey: the stunning new Bentley Istanbul showroom on the Bosphorus, a major investment by the well known Dogus Otomotiv and the all-new Calista Luxury Resort in Belek.

Setting off in London, the rally heads for Istanbul, site of the new Bentley Istanbul showroom, before finishing on May 17 in Belek, Turkey’s premier luxury golf and leisure resort. There the event’s closing ceremony will be one of the highlights of the grand opening of the all-new Calista Luxury Resort.

Bentley Istanbul will be run by Dogus Otomotiv, importer of Volkswagen Group brands in Turkey and will be Bentley’s first dealership in the country. Attending the opening event on May 29, 2007 will be Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen.

Organised by internationally renowned architect, Frank Solano, and acclaimed designer, Eddie McGuire, the Bentley Calista Rally is sponsored by Bentley Motors, Bentley Istanbul and Bentley Vienna and will be run in the true spirit of the original Bentley Boys, whose motorsport feats in the 1920s and ’30s made the marque’s name legendary.

Continue reading "Vintage Bentleys head to Turkey for twin celebration"

May 2, 2007

Bentley appoints new Global Director of External Affairs

Bentley Motors is delighted to announce the appointment of James Rosenstein to the new position of global director of external affairs.

James joins Bentley from Ygomi, an independent American ICT company specialising in software and services for the automotive, telecommunications and other industries, where he was senior vice-president, marketing and external affairs, responsible for covering all world markets.

Prior to this, he held senior positions in the automotive industry. Most recently he was vice-president, external affairs, at Toyota Motor Europe in Brussels, where he oversaw product communications, government and corporate affairs across all European markets.

Previous roles included director of communications at the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association in Brussels, chief press and public affairs officer at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development in London and advising on international corporate communications at the Banque Nationale de Paris in Paris.

In this new position, James will report directly to Bentley chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen. Commenting on the appointment, Dr Paefgen said:

Continue reading "Bentley appoints new Global Director of External Affairs"

March 27, 2007

Bentley to Launch Luxury Coupe at NYIAS

Bentley Motors will use the 2007 New York International Automobile Show for the North American debut of the Bentley Brooklands -- a stunning new model that marks the company’s return to the luxury coupe market.

Launches in NYBrooklands is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.

The Bentley Brooklands' exclusivity will be ensured with a lifetime production strictly limited to just 550 cars, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2008.

The new Bentley Brooklands possesses the most powerful V8 the company has ever produced – a 530bhp, twin-turbocharged 6.75-litre unit that also produces a prodigious 775 pound feet of torque.

Bentley Brooklands – the world’s most exclusive coupe

* The world’s most exclusive coupé: limited to just 550 cars

* The most powerful V8 engine Bentley has ever produced

* Inspired by the exploits of the ‘Bentley Boys’ at the famous Brooklands racetrack

* Powerful, muscular and rakish with classic British proportions

The Bentley Brooklands is a stunning new model that marks the company’s return to the luxury coupé market and reaffirms its reputation as creator of the world’s most exclusive coupés. It is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.

Bentley’s chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen describes the motivation behind the new coupé: “Bentley’s proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal ‘Bentley Boys’ on the famous Brooklands racetrack in the 1920s, was the inspiration for our new coupé, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era.” *

Continue reading "Bentley Brooklands – the world’s most exclusive coupe"

Bentley Continental GT smashes world ice speed record

Oulu, Finland - A Bentley Continental GT, driven by four-times World Rally Champion Juha Kankkunen, smashed the world ice speed record last week, reaching an average speed of 199.86mph (321.65km/h) on frozen sea off the coast of Finland.

The near standard four-wheel-drive Continental GT - which is privately owned by the world rally star - eclipsed the previous ice speed record of 184.14mph (296.34km/h), set by a Bugatti EB110 Supersport at the same location.

Kankkunen's team endured temperatures of minus 30 degrees Celsius on a 10km section of frozen sea, 50km north of Oulu in western Finland. Accelerating hard over 70cm-thick ice, Juha took around 5km to hit his optimum speed before reaching the start of the marked kilometre over which his speed was measured. In spite of the Continental GT’s exceptional grip and traction he experienced wheel-spin even above 120 mph.

After a brief check-over, Juha turned the Continental GT around and drove the measured kilometre a second time to fulfill the judge's requirements, peaking at an incredible 205mph (330km/h).

Continue reading "Bentley Continental GT smashes world ice speed record"

March 2, 2007

Bentley Motors Announces new Director of Product Strategy

Bentley is pleased to confirm the appointment of Richard Leopold as Director of Product Strategy, reporting directly to Stuart McCullough, Member of the Board, Sales & Marketing.

Richard joins Bentley from Saab where he has held a number of senior product strategy roles.

Commenting on this appointment, Stuart McCullough said “Richard is joining us in this new role at an exciting time as we embark on the next phase of our model development programme”.

Richard will join Bentley at the beginning of May 2007.

February 8, 2007

Bentley's new Continental GTC scoops two prestigious awards

The recently launched Bentley Continental GTC convertible has garnered a brace of high-profile awards just months after its international launch. Robb Report, the esteemed US luxury lifestyle magazine, declared Bentley’s 195mph convertible its 2007 Car of the Year, and the judges from L’Automobile piu Bella del Mondo (The World’s Most Beautiful Automobile) recognised the GTC’s beauty in a special design award.

Crewe, England - The recently launched Bentley Continental GTC convertible has garnered a brace of high-profile awards just months after its international launch. Robb Report, the esteemed US luxury lifestyle magazine, declared Bentley’s 195mph convertible its 2007 Car of the Year, and the judges from L’Automobile piu Bella del Mondo (The World’s Most Beautiful Automobile) recognised the GTC’s beauty in a special design award.

Continue reading "Bentley's new Continental GTC scoops two prestigious awards"

Continental Flying Spur leads Bentley's global sales success

Bentley Motors recorded the best year in its 88-year history with production reaching 10,087 cars and global sales estimated to exceed 9,200. This success is led by the impressive first full-year sales of the Continental Flying Spur, expected to exceed 4,500 deliveries worldwide.

This is reinforced by the unprecedented launch of two convertibles in a single year – the Continental GTC and the Azure - each of which is recognised as a leading car in its class. The North American market bolstered this success with anticipated sales of over 4,000 cars across the U.S., Canada and Mexico, representing over 40 per cent of Bentley’s global sales, and an increase of almost 10 per cent, year-on-year.

Continue reading "Continental Flying Spur leads Bentley's global sales success"

November 15, 2006

VW to Revamp its Corporate Structure When New CEO Takes Over

Upon taking the helm as Chief Executive on Jan.1, Martin Winterkorn plans to change Volkswagen AG's corporate structure, according to people familiar with the situation. Winterkorn plans to reorganize the company's brands into two groups, the sources said – a premium group made up of Audi, Bentley, Bugatti and Lamborghini, and a so-called volume group of Volkswagen, Skoda and Seat.

Currently, the automaker organizes its brands with VW, Skoda, Bentley and Bugatti in the VW group, and Audi, Seat and Lamborghini in the Audi group, reports The Wall Street Journal.

Despite strong rationale for these groupings - Audi and Seat brands share "core competencies" and the brands in the VW group gave consumers a wide spectrum of choice in terms of quality and size segments – consumers remained unaware of the distinction and the brands often competed against each other.

Winterkorn also has plans to reestablish a seat for a development head on the board of directors, which was something departing Chief Executive Bernd Pischetsrieder had done away with. Winterkorn's move would likely curb the influence of chief executives from the various brands.

November 2, 2006

High-end automakers sign satellite deals

Select Porsches will soon come equipped with optional XM satellite radios, beginning in the 2007 model year, while Bentley Motors will make Sirius Satellite Radio service standard in all Continental GT, Continental GTC and Continental Flying Spur vehicles, beginning in 2008.

October 31, 2006

SIRIUS Satellite Radio Exclusive in Bentley Vehicles

- Launches 2007 Model Year

- Standard in 2008 Model Year with Continental GT, Continental GTC and Continental Flying Spur

- Lifetime Subscription to SIRIUS Included

Bentley Motors Inc. and SIRIUS Satellite Radio today announced an exclusive agreement for the inclusion of SIRIUS in Bentley vehicles. SIRIUS will be available in select Bentley models in the U.S. beginning in the mid- 2007 model year and will become a standard feature available in all Continental GT, Continental GTC and Continental Flying Spur vehicles beginning in the 2008 model year.

"All vehicles equipped with SIRIUS will include a lifetime subscription to the service, which will enhance each Bentley's individual customization and give each customer a new vehicle experience," said Andrew Stuart, CEO for Bentley Motors Inc.

"SIRIUS' exceptional programming is a natural addition to the extraordinary reputation of a Bentley, and we are very excited about our relationship with such an internationally elite brand," said Mel Karmazin, CEO, SIRIUS.

Bentley customers can now order vehicles with SIRIUS Satellite Radio for delivery in early 2007.

December 20, 2005

Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #125: Let the Salesman Speak!

Now this is a brainstorm -- Car Buyer's Notebook is now accepting video and audio clip entries from car sales professionals, in which they describe a vehicle they sell -- and try to convince our audience that it is a "must buy."

Clips MUST be between 30 and 45 seconds long, and in the case of video, should show the salesperson either in front of or sitting inside the vehicle.

In order to enter, clips must be e-mailed to us at editor@carbuyersnotebook.com, and they MUST come from a recognizable dealership address and also include the dealer's phone number.

That's it. We're specifically are excluding dealer principals and/or managers. We want to hear from the sales people. Our goal is to give our audience a different, fun kind of content, to get the retail side of the industry involved and also, to show new vehicle salespeople in a light they don't often get to present themselves in. We're excited about this!

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

December 19, 2005

Free Vehicle Price Quote -- Car Buyer's Notebook Video Cast

To watch the video, right-click on this link and choose 'Save As.'

With auto sales down 14% in the beginning of December, now may be a great time to shop for a new vehicle. We'll show you how to get started by getting a new vehicle price quote at www.CarBuyersNotebook.com.

To watch the episode, you can right click on this link and choose "Save As," or, even better, you can get on the Apple iTunes bandwagon and subscribe to Zero to 120.

That way, your computer will automatically download a new episode when we publish!

To add Zero to 120 to your daily iTunes fix, add this RSS string to your iTunes or other podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebookvideo.libsyn.com/rss

December 4, 2005

Get a Free Vehicle Price Quote, Courtesy of Car Buyer's Notebook

The Internet has has clearly shifted the car buying equation in favor of the consumer.

Not only can you research any and all vehicles you may be interested in from the no-pressure environment of your computer, you can also get a free, no-obligation price quote onthe vehicle[s] of your choice, simply by using this form, which takes less than 2 minutes to complete.

Here's the way it works: by clicking on the icon above right, then filling out the form with your vehicle interest and contact info, the details are sent to new car dealers in your area. Nowadays, all car dealers have "Internet departments" whose job it is to respond to these "leads" and earn your business.

Long gone are the days where you wander into a dealership, just to look, and drive away an hour or so later with a vehicle you never knew you just had to have!

We strongly recommed new vehicle buyers utilize all the tools at their disposal, and we are proud to be working with the biggest and most trusted provider of vehicle price quotes in the industry. If you have any questions about how this tool works -- or even any hesitation -- please feel free to contact us via e-mail.

We feel so strongly about both the tool and the service, that for the first time we're publishing our direct telephone number: 703-236-1846. If we can help you in any way, feel free to call [during reasonable hours, of course!]

Cordially,
Frank Giovinazzi,
Publisher, Car Buyer's Notebook

Car Buyer's Notebook

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