Okay, let's be real.
Driving in South Florida can be pretty stressful, right? After all, you never know if that silver Lexus with the right turn signal on really is going to make that turn.
But soon, your MKS maybe able to give you tips on how to calm down.
Ford is teaming up with the AgeLab at MIT to identify stressful driving situations. Scientists will monitor drivers' reactions to those situations and then identify technology available that might be able to help reduce the stress that comes from those situations.
The MKS, because it is loaded with technology, will be used as the test vehicle initially.
Not sure what the folks at MIT have in mind, but think of this.
You're 20 minutes late for an appointment and you're all worked up. Now the guy in front of you is going 30 when the speed limit is 50.
All of a sudden a voice from you NAV system that sounds a lot like your wife tells you to calm down and before you know, soothing music is coming out of your radio and images of waves rolling onto a beach appear on your NAV screen. A little compartment suddenly opens and the next thing you know a little pill, maybe Xanex or Valium is there just for you.
Okay, so maybe they won't go that far. But it's an idea.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Fire Sale Heats Up
We're back after a short hiatus and just in time for one of the best times of the year - and maybe the decade - to buy a new car.
Everyone is making deals and offering incentives as the manufacturers try and close out 2009 but you won't find better deals than the ones you'll get from local Saturn and Pontiac dealers. With the brands disappearing, incentives are through the roof as GM and dealers try and get the cars off the lots.
If you're one of those folks who love Saturns or Pontiacs, this is a great time to buy, especially when you consider that GM will honor all warranties and will also be doing repair and warranty work at its remaining dealerships.
If history repeats itself, buyer will find out that they made a good decision in buying one of these brands, especially since GM is offering dealers $7,000 incentives to move them, which will be passed on to consumers. Most of those folks who bought an Oldsmobile a few years back, when GM got rid of that line, were happy they did.
A word of caution, however. If you're not planning to keep your car for a while, it may be wise to stay away from these vehicles because of a weak resale value. Down the road, however, they may regain value, especially if collectors decide to start gathering up some of the hotter models – especially the Solstice or Sky.
Here in South Florida, you might want to move quickly. These cars are going fast.
Everyone is making deals and offering incentives as the manufacturers try and close out 2009 but you won't find better deals than the ones you'll get from local Saturn and Pontiac dealers. With the brands disappearing, incentives are through the roof as GM and dealers try and get the cars off the lots.
If you're one of those folks who love Saturns or Pontiacs, this is a great time to buy, especially when you consider that GM will honor all warranties and will also be doing repair and warranty work at its remaining dealerships.
If history repeats itself, buyer will find out that they made a good decision in buying one of these brands, especially since GM is offering dealers $7,000 incentives to move them, which will be passed on to consumers. Most of those folks who bought an Oldsmobile a few years back, when GM got rid of that line, were happy they did.
A word of caution, however. If you're not planning to keep your car for a while, it may be wise to stay away from these vehicles because of a weak resale value. Down the road, however, they may regain value, especially if collectors decide to start gathering up some of the hotter models – especially the Solstice or Sky.
Here in South Florida, you might want to move quickly. These cars are going fast.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Wheels with a peel
When you buy your new 2010 Toyota Prius or maybe Honda Civic, you may actually be buying a car that in a roundabout way is supporting Florida's citrus industry.
Yokohama Tires is now producing a tire that is made with orange oil extract infused into the natural rubber of tires. The orange oil comes from peels that are discarded by orange-juice processors, so there is a virtually unlimited supply of raw material available.
The big advantage of the tire with a peel is that it decreases the use of petroleum in the tire manufacturing process by 80 percent, according to a story in Automotive News.
The tires have tested well for wear and braking and have been tested on race tracks.
There's only one hitch and that is that the tires are about 25 percent more expensive than comparable traditional tires. That may be because Yokohama has been working on this for 20 years and needs to recoup some of those R&D costs. Eventually the prices will probably come down.
In the meantime, Florida citrus growers may find out that their crops are just a tad more valuable. One again the state will be benefiting as people re-tire.
Yokohama Tires is now producing a tire that is made with orange oil extract infused into the natural rubber of tires. The orange oil comes from peels that are discarded by orange-juice processors, so there is a virtually unlimited supply of raw material available.
The big advantage of the tire with a peel is that it decreases the use of petroleum in the tire manufacturing process by 80 percent, according to a story in Automotive News.
The tires have tested well for wear and braking and have been tested on race tracks.
There's only one hitch and that is that the tires are about 25 percent more expensive than comparable traditional tires. That may be because Yokohama has been working on this for 20 years and needs to recoup some of those R&D costs. Eventually the prices will probably come down.
In the meantime, Florida citrus growers may find out that their crops are just a tad more valuable. One again the state will be benefiting as people re-tire.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wheely Good Deals
If you're running out of time when it comes to holiday shopping – and if you're a guy, chances are you're not even close to getting everything done – then you might want to go to your local auto dealership and hang out at the "parts" boutique, which these days has a lot more than just parts.
In our Sun Sentinel column a few weeks ago, we focused on all great gifts you can get at the dealership.
Want a bike for your kids that's really special? Head to your local BMW dealership.
Want to get your wife or girlfriend, who really loves her Lexus, a special gift? How about a crystal studded Lexus blouse or crystal studded license plate holder.
You can get everything from a Cadillac Teddy Bear to key chains, coffee mugs and even minature cars at the dealership.
And here's the best part. You can spend a couple of hours looking at the new cars, checking out the newest models, and then go home and tell your wife you were out looking for that special present just for her.
Oh yeah, and while you're shopping you can get the oil changed on your car or have the brakes check.
Sure as heck beats going to the mall.
In our Sun Sentinel column a few weeks ago, we focused on all great gifts you can get at the dealership.
Want a bike for your kids that's really special? Head to your local BMW dealership.
Want to get your wife or girlfriend, who really loves her Lexus, a special gift? How about a crystal studded Lexus blouse or crystal studded license plate holder.
You can get everything from a Cadillac Teddy Bear to key chains, coffee mugs and even minature cars at the dealership.
And here's the best part. You can spend a couple of hours looking at the new cars, checking out the newest models, and then go home and tell your wife you were out looking for that special present just for her.
Oh yeah, and while you're shopping you can get the oil changed on your car or have the brakes check.
Sure as heck beats going to the mall.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Cars by Phone
Want to buy a car directly from a dealer – no broker or middleman – without ever having to set foot in a dealership?
It's not as far fetched as it sounds.
According to a story in Automotive News this week, a dealership in the middle of no where New Hampshire is selling a lot of cars by phone and having drivers, mostly local retired folks, drive the new car to the buyer and come back in a trade-in.
Why would you buy a car that way?
Well apparently the prices are low enough to attract customers from as far as 12 hours away and the service is pretty darn good too.
Cars can be delivered within a day and the buyer has four days to cancel the deal.
The Internet of course is helping to make this possible but there is much more to it. The dealership produces weekly catalogs of vehicles for sale and also advertises a lot.
And there are plenty of follow up phone calls.
Could it work here in South Florida?
You bet, especially with dealerships in say Belle Glade, Homestead or points north. But it might also be a good idea for luxury dealerships too.
It's not as far fetched as it sounds.
According to a story in Automotive News this week, a dealership in the middle of no where New Hampshire is selling a lot of cars by phone and having drivers, mostly local retired folks, drive the new car to the buyer and come back in a trade-in.
Why would you buy a car that way?
Well apparently the prices are low enough to attract customers from as far as 12 hours away and the service is pretty darn good too.
Cars can be delivered within a day and the buyer has four days to cancel the deal.
The Internet of course is helping to make this possible but there is much more to it. The dealership produces weekly catalogs of vehicles for sale and also advertises a lot.
And there are plenty of follow up phone calls.
Could it work here in South Florida?
You bet, especially with dealerships in say Belle Glade, Homestead or points north. But it might also be a good idea for luxury dealerships too.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Right Ram for Ewe
The truck market is certainly changing.
These days the folks who bought trucks simply for leisure purposes – you know, the guy who hasn't hauled anything in the back of the truck since the last time a friend asked him to help her move – are moving to either SUVs, crossovers or, gulp, four door sedans.
So, it's not surprising that when motor trend named its truck of the year, it passed over the
F-150 and the Tundra and went right to the Dodge Ram Heavy Duty.
The key here is utility.
The Ram Heavy Duty has a 17,500 pound towing capacity and has a suspension and braking system that is designed for heavy loads. The MT editors said they also like the truck's quiet and comfortable ride.
Here is South Florida, we probably won't see a lot of these trucks even after they hit the market in the next couple of weeks.
But this is good news for our local Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep dealers, who can use all the help they can get these days.
These days the folks who bought trucks simply for leisure purposes – you know, the guy who hasn't hauled anything in the back of the truck since the last time a friend asked him to help her move – are moving to either SUVs, crossovers or, gulp, four door sedans.
So, it's not surprising that when motor trend named its truck of the year, it passed over the
F-150 and the Tundra and went right to the Dodge Ram Heavy Duty.
The key here is utility.
The Ram Heavy Duty has a 17,500 pound towing capacity and has a suspension and braking system that is designed for heavy loads. The MT editors said they also like the truck's quiet and comfortable ride.
Here is South Florida, we probably won't see a lot of these trucks even after they hit the market in the next couple of weeks.
But this is good news for our local Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep dealers, who can use all the help they can get these days.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Hello Good Buys
JD Power and Associates does a lot of studies and the latest one came out this week showing that the car buying experience has improved over last year for most car buyers.
The study credits the economy at least in part for that with dealers doing more to get customers in and to get them to buy a car at their dealership.
But there are some interesting findings that may have something to do with the Internet and also with the fact that consumers are perhaps not that inclined to go to five or six dealerships before they find the car they way. There may also be a little more decisiveness involved.
The J.D. Power study found that new car buyers on average visited less than three stores before buying their car. Half of those folks, visited only the dealership they bought the car from. And those customers who only went to one dealership were happier with the selling experience than those who went to several. The lesson, according to JD Power, is that buyers who have a good experience at the first dealership they go to, probably won't go anywhere else.
Again, online research may have a lot to do with this. Often times, the relationship with the online salesperson who contacts you will determine if you go to a dealership.
But for those of us in South Florida, this study essentially reaffirms what we already know. Relationships are critical when buying a car. If you trust the person you bought your last car from or if a friend told you to call Joe Doe to buy your next car, there's a good chance you'll get with them next time you're buying. There's also a good chance they'll work harder to get your business!
The study credits the economy at least in part for that with dealers doing more to get customers in and to get them to buy a car at their dealership.
But there are some interesting findings that may have something to do with the Internet and also with the fact that consumers are perhaps not that inclined to go to five or six dealerships before they find the car they way. There may also be a little more decisiveness involved.
The J.D. Power study found that new car buyers on average visited less than three stores before buying their car. Half of those folks, visited only the dealership they bought the car from. And those customers who only went to one dealership were happier with the selling experience than those who went to several. The lesson, according to JD Power, is that buyers who have a good experience at the first dealership they go to, probably won't go anywhere else.
Again, online research may have a lot to do with this. Often times, the relationship with the online salesperson who contacts you will determine if you go to a dealership.
But for those of us in South Florida, this study essentially reaffirms what we already know. Relationships are critical when buying a car. If you trust the person you bought your last car from or if a friend told you to call Joe Doe to buy your next car, there's a good chance you'll get with them next time you're buying. There's also a good chance they'll work harder to get your business!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Moving Ford-ward
A discussion over the weekend focused on the challenges to Toyota's dominance in car sales and it's no secret that Hyundai is gaining in market share.
But if you're Toyota, you might want to be looking in your rear view mirror at Ford.
Through November, Toyota was outselling Ford in the car segment by two to one, thanks to the Camry and Corolla. But when you factor in trucks, where Ford F-150 dominates, well, the lead narrows to a mere 50,000 vehicles.
With Ford's Fusion winning car of the year from MotorTrend, and with year end incentives being pretty attractive, you might not want to count Ford out quite yet.
Here is South Florida, there is no doubt that this is certainly more of a Toyota car market. But take a look on I-95 the next time you're driving and start making a mental note of all the Ford's out there. There's more and more - and that's far from by accident.
Ford sees a lot of opportunity in South Florida for the Ford brand as well as for Lincoln and Mercury. And it might just come at the expense of Toyota.
By the way, watch for a name change of one of North Broward's most well-known Toyota dealerships, which was recently sold!
But if you're Toyota, you might want to be looking in your rear view mirror at Ford.
Through November, Toyota was outselling Ford in the car segment by two to one, thanks to the Camry and Corolla. But when you factor in trucks, where Ford F-150 dominates, well, the lead narrows to a mere 50,000 vehicles.
With Ford's Fusion winning car of the year from MotorTrend, and with year end incentives being pretty attractive, you might not want to count Ford out quite yet.
Here is South Florida, there is no doubt that this is certainly more of a Toyota car market. But take a look on I-95 the next time you're driving and start making a mental note of all the Ford's out there. There's more and more - and that's far from by accident.
Ford sees a lot of opportunity in South Florida for the Ford brand as well as for Lincoln and Mercury. And it might just come at the expense of Toyota.
By the way, watch for a name change of one of North Broward's most well-known Toyota dealerships, which was recently sold!
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Get Smart - On the Go
So the SmartCar, once so hot you couldn't get one without a terribly long wait, has lost a lot of its luster.
According to Automotive News, only 660 of the little things were sold in October, down some 70 percent from last year. Ah, but fear not. Daimler, the manufacturer of the SmartCar, distributed in the US by Penske, has an idea to put you behind the wheel of the vehicle.
In a six-month pilot program that began in Austin, Texas recently, drivers can rent a SmartCar as part of a car2go program and pay for the use of the vehicle - to the tune of about $70 a day. The city of Austin will be 200 SmartCars, the smart fortwo models, at no cost to the city. Employees will have to pay for any personal time.
It's a cool idea that could catch on, especially if the cars are easily accessible.
We'll be keeping an eye on Texas.
According to Automotive News, only 660 of the little things were sold in October, down some 70 percent from last year. Ah, but fear not. Daimler, the manufacturer of the SmartCar, distributed in the US by Penske, has an idea to put you behind the wheel of the vehicle.
In a six-month pilot program that began in Austin, Texas recently, drivers can rent a SmartCar as part of a car2go program and pay for the use of the vehicle - to the tune of about $70 a day. The city of Austin will be 200 SmartCars, the smart fortwo models, at no cost to the city. Employees will have to pay for any personal time.
It's a cool idea that could catch on, especially if the cars are easily accessible.
We'll be keeping an eye on Texas.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Car Pay Do Em
The expression is carpe diem, translated into "seize the day," but according to a story out of Iowa, an aggressive car sales team tried to seize more than just the day when they, according to a lawsuit, talked a 77-year-old woman who brought her car in for an oil change into purchasing a new car - which she couldn't afford, by the way.
You can read the story here: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20091130/NEWS/911300323/
While the vast majority of car dealers and car sales folks are honest people, there are some who work on commission that will do whatever it takes to make a buck.
The answer is education.
At the end of the year, when there are great buys on vehicles, it's important for buyers to remember they have the power to walk away. The Iowa story says the woman was at the dealership for eight hours! Eight hours? That's just plain crazy.
If you're buying a car, remember you are in control and also remember to read everything and to make sure that everything you've been promised is in writing.
Remember another latin term caveat emptor - or buyer beware!
You can read the story here: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20091130/NEWS/911300323/
While the vast majority of car dealers and car sales folks are honest people, there are some who work on commission that will do whatever it takes to make a buck.
The answer is education.
At the end of the year, when there are great buys on vehicles, it's important for buyers to remember they have the power to walk away. The Iowa story says the woman was at the dealership for eight hours! Eight hours? That's just plain crazy.
If you're buying a car, remember you are in control and also remember to read everything and to make sure that everything you've been promised is in writing.
Remember another latin term caveat emptor - or buyer beware!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Audi Liu Wow!
Audi threw a party at the Fountainbleu last night that was pretty darn amazing.
The occasion was the world unveiling of the new 2011 Audi A8, a car that Audi will tell you is all about design and style - which is why the German company chose Miami for their launch.
But really, this car has so much going for it in the technology area that it will amaze even those skeptics who don't see Audi's A8 as being serious competition for the Mercedes S Class or BMW 7 Series. Among the multitude of cool features are headlights that will automatically dim or brighten depending on the lighting.
And how about this: when an approach car comes you're way, the headlights will adjust but only the left headlight – the one that might blind the approaching driver – will dim. The right headlight will adjust to the side to help you continue seeing ahead. You'll be able to read more about this cool car – which has its drawbacks by the way, including a small trunk and not a lot of leg room in the backseat in the short-wheel base model – in upcoming blog post and in the On the South Florida Road column in the Sun Sentinel on Saturday Dec. 12.
But for now, let's focus on last night's party that was hosted by actress Lucy Liu. Audi went all out, inviting more than 500 automotive journalists, including 200 from outside the U.S. You could have heard just about every language imaginable. The Fountainbleu was the perfect setting and Audi used its temporary pavilion a short distance to the north to put on an incredible show. The party was invitation only and we were fortunate to be there thanks to our good friend Bob Rubin, who has some pretty amazing connections.
During a brief conversation with Audi President Johan de Nysschen, we learned that Audi decided to skip the LA Auto Show, at least with the A8, and come to Miami because it was more interested in introducing the car to journalists than consumers – at least for right now. And everyone knows that most automotive journalists wouldn't consider skipping a trip to Miami - in November - on Audi's dime. For the record, we on the other hand, chose to drink only water and skip the food. Old habits die hard.
The occasion was the world unveiling of the new 2011 Audi A8, a car that Audi will tell you is all about design and style - which is why the German company chose Miami for their launch.
But really, this car has so much going for it in the technology area that it will amaze even those skeptics who don't see Audi's A8 as being serious competition for the Mercedes S Class or BMW 7 Series. Among the multitude of cool features are headlights that will automatically dim or brighten depending on the lighting.
And how about this: when an approach car comes you're way, the headlights will adjust but only the left headlight – the one that might blind the approaching driver – will dim. The right headlight will adjust to the side to help you continue seeing ahead. You'll be able to read more about this cool car – which has its drawbacks by the way, including a small trunk and not a lot of leg room in the backseat in the short-wheel base model – in upcoming blog post and in the On the South Florida Road column in the Sun Sentinel on Saturday Dec. 12.
But for now, let's focus on last night's party that was hosted by actress Lucy Liu. Audi went all out, inviting more than 500 automotive journalists, including 200 from outside the U.S. You could have heard just about every language imaginable. The Fountainbleu was the perfect setting and Audi used its temporary pavilion a short distance to the north to put on an incredible show. The party was invitation only and we were fortunate to be there thanks to our good friend Bob Rubin, who has some pretty amazing connections.
During a brief conversation with Audi President Johan de Nysschen, we learned that Audi decided to skip the LA Auto Show, at least with the A8, and come to Miami because it was more interested in introducing the car to journalists than consumers – at least for right now. And everyone knows that most automotive journalists wouldn't consider skipping a trip to Miami - in November - on Audi's dime. For the record, we on the other hand, chose to drink only water and skip the food. Old habits die hard.
Monday, November 30, 2009
A8 is Enough
All eyes this week will be on the Los Angeles Auto Show where a dozen 2011 models will be making their debut. Among them will be a production model of the long awaited Chevy Volt and the new Ford Mustang.
But wait, not ALL eyes will be focused on California. In fact, a lot of folks will be checking out an event tonight in South Florida where Audi unveils its new A8, a car that is expected to attract a lot of attention.
Tonight's event is invitation only and will be surrounded by a lot of hoopla. The new A8 is a car that will have a great look and word is that will be a bit more stylish and coupe like than its predecessors.
LA may have a lot going for it this week, but here in South Florida the A8 is enough - at least for now!
But wait, not ALL eyes will be focused on California. In fact, a lot of folks will be checking out an event tonight in South Florida where Audi unveils its new A8, a car that is expected to attract a lot of attention.
Tonight's event is invitation only and will be surrounded by a lot of hoopla. The new A8 is a car that will have a great look and word is that will be a bit more stylish and coupe like than its predecessors.
LA may have a lot going for it this week, but here in South Florida the A8 is enough - at least for now!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Deals on Wheels
If you're one of those folks who keeps a car for a long time, today may be a great day to buy a new car, well a 2009 model, if you can find one.
According to the car buying website TrueCar.com, today is not just a great day to pick up a gift for aunt Millie, its also a great day to get out and pick up a 2009 Hyundai Sonata or even a 2009 Buick LaCrosse.
One reason for that is that there are amazing manufacturer incentives being offered right now on lots of 2009, especially those models that are going away. GM for example, is offering $4,000 back on a Saturn Vue or an Aura. Add to that what ever the dealers are willing to offer in order to move the vehicle and you might be able to get a fairly good deal on those vehicles for well under $20,000.
There is one thing to consider, however. If you're one of those folks that might want to change cars in two or three years, well, buying a 2009 might not be your best bet. A 2010 will have better value when you go to trade it in. But if your plan is to run the vehicle into the ground, well you might want to take a look at truecar.com and check out incentives.
According to the car buying website TrueCar.com, today is not just a great day to pick up a gift for aunt Millie, its also a great day to get out and pick up a 2009 Hyundai Sonata or even a 2009 Buick LaCrosse.
One reason for that is that there are amazing manufacturer incentives being offered right now on lots of 2009, especially those models that are going away. GM for example, is offering $4,000 back on a Saturn Vue or an Aura. Add to that what ever the dealers are willing to offer in order to move the vehicle and you might be able to get a fairly good deal on those vehicles for well under $20,000.
There is one thing to consider, however. If you're one of those folks that might want to change cars in two or three years, well, buying a 2009 might not be your best bet. A 2010 will have better value when you go to trade it in. But if your plan is to run the vehicle into the ground, well you might want to take a look at truecar.com and check out incentives.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Don't Leaf Us Out
The Nissan Leaf is a car that could have a major impact on the way we drive.
Unlike the Volt and a lot of the other plug in hybrids that are on the way, the Leaf is entirely electric and capable of going 100 miles on a charge and can go more than 85 miles per hour. It even seats for or five.
Expected to hit showrooms within the next year, the Leaf is going to be a big attraction. There's only one hitch. South Florida isn't on the list of areas where the Leaf will debut, according to Motor Trend.
Instead it will be in a lot of West Coast cities that have a network of charging stations already in place or that are building them. Despite the best efforts of Charles Whalen and the Florida Electric Auto Association, South Florida doesn't appear to be on the list.
But there's good news.
There Leaf will be in Florida in February as part of the national tour and you'll have a chance to check it out. The visit to Orlando is Feb. 1 and 2. And soon after the stop - maybe a couple of months - Nissan will begin taking reservations for the leaf.
There's still a lot of questions but one thing is for sure, Florida is a great place for the Leaf and the Leaf is a great car for South Florida.
Unlike the Volt and a lot of the other plug in hybrids that are on the way, the Leaf is entirely electric and capable of going 100 miles on a charge and can go more than 85 miles per hour. It even seats for or five.
Expected to hit showrooms within the next year, the Leaf is going to be a big attraction. There's only one hitch. South Florida isn't on the list of areas where the Leaf will debut, according to Motor Trend.
Instead it will be in a lot of West Coast cities that have a network of charging stations already in place or that are building them. Despite the best efforts of Charles Whalen and the Florida Electric Auto Association, South Florida doesn't appear to be on the list.
But there's good news.
There Leaf will be in Florida in February as part of the national tour and you'll have a chance to check it out. The visit to Orlando is Feb. 1 and 2. And soon after the stop - maybe a couple of months - Nissan will begin taking reservations for the leaf.
There's still a lot of questions but one thing is for sure, Florida is a great place for the Leaf and the Leaf is a great car for South Florida.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
All Couped Up
There's no doubt that the Cadillac CTS is one of the top cars on the market. It's a great looking car, its well built and the ride is extraordinary. If you like a larger car, this is a great vehicle.
Yesterday GM unveiled the latest addition to the CTS family, the long-await CTS sports coupe, a car with sleek lines and a little more get up and go than the CTS sedan or wagon.
The coupe, which will officially be unveiled next week at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is expected to be in showrooms in the middle of next year.
While the price of the coupe is planned to be the same as the sedan – somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 grand – customers will be getting a little less metal for their money. The couple – which has that same sleek design we're seeing the vehicles like the Buick LaCrosse and the new Jaguar XJ – is about 2 inches lower and two inches shorter than its sister but size doesn't matter when it comes to power. The coupe comes with a 304 horsepower V6 and a mileage rating of about 27 mpg on the highway.
While this car is billed as a sports luxury vehicle, it might not be the car you want to drive on the family trip to New Jersey. Sure you can show it off when you get to Aunt Mary's but your passengers may be feeling a little couped up if their stuck in the back seat of this coupe for too long.
On the other hand, this is a great car to have if you want to make a great impression.
Yesterday GM unveiled the latest addition to the CTS family, the long-await CTS sports coupe, a car with sleek lines and a little more get up and go than the CTS sedan or wagon.
The coupe, which will officially be unveiled next week at the Los Angeles Auto Show, is expected to be in showrooms in the middle of next year.
While the price of the coupe is planned to be the same as the sedan – somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 grand – customers will be getting a little less metal for their money. The couple – which has that same sleek design we're seeing the vehicles like the Buick LaCrosse and the new Jaguar XJ – is about 2 inches lower and two inches shorter than its sister but size doesn't matter when it comes to power. The coupe comes with a 304 horsepower V6 and a mileage rating of about 27 mpg on the highway.
While this car is billed as a sports luxury vehicle, it might not be the car you want to drive on the family trip to New Jersey. Sure you can show it off when you get to Aunt Mary's but your passengers may be feeling a little couped up if their stuck in the back seat of this coupe for too long.
On the other hand, this is a great car to have if you want to make a great impression.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Good CARma
They say what goes around comes around and some car dealers are discovering that helping a good organization in the community can indeed be good for business.
Recently Napleton's Hyundai in West Palm Beach agree to be a sponsor of the Horses and the Handicapped of South Florida's Horseshoe Hoedown. Thanks to supporters like Raul Gomila, the GM of Napleton's, the organization was able to cover its costs ahead of time so that all money raised the night of the event, about $50,000, will go to scholarships.
So how does this benefit the dealer? Well it won't be long before Hyundai unveils the Equus, a car with a name that horse lovers are going to love. When that happens, you can bet Horses and the Handicapped will do its best to let its hundreds of supporters, parents and volunteers, know that Napleton's Hyundai was there for them.
Call it good carma!
Recently Napleton's Hyundai in West Palm Beach agree to be a sponsor of the Horses and the Handicapped of South Florida's Horseshoe Hoedown. Thanks to supporters like Raul Gomila, the GM of Napleton's, the organization was able to cover its costs ahead of time so that all money raised the night of the event, about $50,000, will go to scholarships.
So how does this benefit the dealer? Well it won't be long before Hyundai unveils the Equus, a car with a name that horse lovers are going to love. When that happens, you can bet Horses and the Handicapped will do its best to let its hundreds of supporters, parents and volunteers, know that Napleton's Hyundai was there for them.
Call it good carma!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Competition in a Can
Sometimes the bottom line and the goal line don't have to be synonymous.
Sometimes a company can do the right thing just because it is the right thing and if it doesn't have a positive impact on the ledger, oh well.
This week's On the South Florida Road column is about a company that did that and a CEO who reached into his own pocket to help make a point about the importance of community involvement.
The CEO is Colin Brown and the company is JM Family Enterprises, which already is known as one of the best places in South Florida to work.
JM was in the midst of a food drive when Brown heard that there was a need for more protein. So he put out a challenge. For every can of tuna an associate brought in, Brown would match it.
The bottom line is that there was no tuna anywhere to be found in a 20 mile radius around JM Deerfield headquarters. You'll have to get a Sun Sentinel if you want details.
But here is what you won't read in the column. JM had to reduce its staff a few months back for the first time in the company history. It was about as painful as it gets. Those who remain are working harder than ever to get the jobs done. The tuna challenge was fun and it got everyone pulling together as a team. It boosted morale. JM even donated $10 grand to a food bank.
Will this help them sell more Toyotas to the dealers who they supply in the Southeast US? No, probably not. Will it add to the revenue side of the ledger? Probably not. But in many ways it will help people who have a good job be more grateful, it will help people become more aware of the hunger in our community and it will make a bunch of people feel like they really made a contribution. If that doesn't trump the bottom line, nothing will.
Sometimes a company can do the right thing just because it is the right thing and if it doesn't have a positive impact on the ledger, oh well.
This week's On the South Florida Road column is about a company that did that and a CEO who reached into his own pocket to help make a point about the importance of community involvement.
The CEO is Colin Brown and the company is JM Family Enterprises, which already is known as one of the best places in South Florida to work.
JM was in the midst of a food drive when Brown heard that there was a need for more protein. So he put out a challenge. For every can of tuna an associate brought in, Brown would match it.
The bottom line is that there was no tuna anywhere to be found in a 20 mile radius around JM Deerfield headquarters. You'll have to get a Sun Sentinel if you want details.
But here is what you won't read in the column. JM had to reduce its staff a few months back for the first time in the company history. It was about as painful as it gets. Those who remain are working harder than ever to get the jobs done. The tuna challenge was fun and it got everyone pulling together as a team. It boosted morale. JM even donated $10 grand to a food bank.
Will this help them sell more Toyotas to the dealers who they supply in the Southeast US? No, probably not. Will it add to the revenue side of the ledger? Probably not. But in many ways it will help people who have a good job be more grateful, it will help people become more aware of the hunger in our community and it will make a bunch of people feel like they really made a contribution. If that doesn't trump the bottom line, nothing will.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Who Knew About Subaru Safety?
What manufacturers make the safest cars on the road?
Toyota, Volvo, Mercedes?
Nope, at least not according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
In its annual safety ratings, released yesterday, the institute gave kudos to Subaru, which had top safety winners in all four vehicle categories in which it competes.
But that's not the biggest surprise on the list. It's what's missing that is unusual. Toyota didn't have any cars with top ratings, although in fairness, the Camry came close. Also not on the list, the Motor Trend 2010 car of the year, the Ford Fusion. And how about this: BMW, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Saab also were absent. Didn't see any Hyundais on the list either.
Some notable winners were the Buick LaCrosse and the Lincoln MKS, another great car in the large car category. VW did well in the midsize category with both the Jetta and Passat. The Malibu and the Dodge Avenger also made the list. VW's Golf was on the small car list as was the Nissan Cube as was the Honda Civic. VW's Tiguan was listed as a safe small SUV as was the Jeep Patriot.
So does this mean you shouldn't buy a car not on the list. Of course not, but you might want to go to the institute's site and download its brochure on shopping for a safe car while you're checking out the list.
go to www.iihs.org and click on news.
Toyota, Volvo, Mercedes?
Nope, at least not according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
In its annual safety ratings, released yesterday, the institute gave kudos to Subaru, which had top safety winners in all four vehicle categories in which it competes.
But that's not the biggest surprise on the list. It's what's missing that is unusual. Toyota didn't have any cars with top ratings, although in fairness, the Camry came close. Also not on the list, the Motor Trend 2010 car of the year, the Ford Fusion. And how about this: BMW, Mazda, Mitsubishi and Saab also were absent. Didn't see any Hyundais on the list either.
Some notable winners were the Buick LaCrosse and the Lincoln MKS, another great car in the large car category. VW did well in the midsize category with both the Jetta and Passat. The Malibu and the Dodge Avenger also made the list. VW's Golf was on the small car list as was the Nissan Cube as was the Honda Civic. VW's Tiguan was listed as a safe small SUV as was the Jeep Patriot.
So does this mean you shouldn't buy a car not on the list. Of course not, but you might want to go to the institute's site and download its brochure on shopping for a safe car while you're checking out the list.
go to www.iihs.org and click on news.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
New to Used
One of the signs of a difficult economy is that more people who in the past would only buy a new car are turning to used cars.
Demand for used cars is up significantly and supply is down. As a result, used car prices are up about 16 percent from about a year ago.
What's driving this trend?
Well, a lot of folks will point the finger at Cash for Clunkers and there's something there. But the bigger picture is more about the economy as a whole, drops in residual values, and the tightness of credit. There's kind of a interesting cycle here with fewer people buying new car resulting in fewer trade ins at a time when used car demand is high. The used car market is also feeling a tightness in leasing, with fewer cars coming off leases because companies haven't been leasing as much as they had in the past. Then there's the credit issue. Getting a hefty loan, even if you have good credit, might be tough because lenders want to be sure you'll have the money to pay them back down the road.
What does this mean to car buyers?
Well, if you have a decent car to trade in, you might get more for it when you decide to buy a new car. As for used cars, South Florida dealers are seeing supplies increasing slightly and demand waning so that should lead to prices falling. If you can hold out, you might want to wait until after the holidays, when there might be more trade-ins available.
Demand for used cars is up significantly and supply is down. As a result, used car prices are up about 16 percent from about a year ago.
What's driving this trend?
Well, a lot of folks will point the finger at Cash for Clunkers and there's something there. But the bigger picture is more about the economy as a whole, drops in residual values, and the tightness of credit. There's kind of a interesting cycle here with fewer people buying new car resulting in fewer trade ins at a time when used car demand is high. The used car market is also feeling a tightness in leasing, with fewer cars coming off leases because companies haven't been leasing as much as they had in the past. Then there's the credit issue. Getting a hefty loan, even if you have good credit, might be tough because lenders want to be sure you'll have the money to pay them back down the road.
What does this mean to car buyers?
Well, if you have a decent car to trade in, you might get more for it when you decide to buy a new car. As for used cars, South Florida dealers are seeing supplies increasing slightly and demand waning so that should lead to prices falling. If you can hold out, you might want to wait until after the holidays, when there might be more trade-ins available.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Fusion, No Illusion
So Motor Trend, which last year awarded its coveted car-of-the-year honors to the Nissan GT-R, a hot performance car that most of us probably couldn't afford and wouldn't think of as practical, switched gears this year - so to speak - and gave the award to a mid-size sedan.
It wasn't a Toyota, wasn't a Hyundai, nor was it an Audi or Volvo.
Motor Trend's 2010 car of the year is the Ford Fusion, the first Ford to win since the T-Bird got the award in 2003.
If you've driven the Fusion you understand why it got the Motor Trend award. So maybe it's not the most stylish looking car but this is a comfortable car. The Fusion is to cars what meatloaf and mac and cheese are to supper. It's everything you want without the fancy stuff and it is comforting and affordable.
This car is solid and reliable, whether you're driving a 4-cylinder or a six with all wheel drive or even the hybrid. It's got torque and pickup, its got decent gas mileage and its got a lot of cool technological gizmos.
If there is ever a car that will lure back those who went over to the dark side - buying Japanese imports when American cars were poorly made – this is it.
Ford has the product, it's getting the recognition, now it just needs to keep getting buyers into the showroom.
Congratulations to the people in Dearborn for this award. Of course, it really is just an affirmation of what we've been telling everyone already. This is one great car.
It wasn't a Toyota, wasn't a Hyundai, nor was it an Audi or Volvo.
Motor Trend's 2010 car of the year is the Ford Fusion, the first Ford to win since the T-Bird got the award in 2003.
If you've driven the Fusion you understand why it got the Motor Trend award. So maybe it's not the most stylish looking car but this is a comfortable car. The Fusion is to cars what meatloaf and mac and cheese are to supper. It's everything you want without the fancy stuff and it is comforting and affordable.
This car is solid and reliable, whether you're driving a 4-cylinder or a six with all wheel drive or even the hybrid. It's got torque and pickup, its got decent gas mileage and its got a lot of cool technological gizmos.
If there is ever a car that will lure back those who went over to the dark side - buying Japanese imports when American cars were poorly made – this is it.
Ford has the product, it's getting the recognition, now it just needs to keep getting buyers into the showroom.
Congratulations to the people in Dearborn for this award. Of course, it really is just an affirmation of what we've been telling everyone already. This is one great car.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Billions and Billions
Here's the good news:
GM only lost $1.2 billion in the last quarter. You know, the last time we only lost $1.2 billion, we were celebrating too.
But seriously folks, GM is making a come back and that is good news for a lot of folks, including taxpayers, local car dealers and in turn, our local economy.
What's really important here is that car buyers begin to see products made by the big three as competitive with those from Europe and Asia. GM and Ford have made great progress in improving quality and in their designs. Take a look at that CTS or the SRX. Look at the LaCrosse and keep an eye out for the new Buick Regal. These are good cars that should help GM increase its market share, which in turn will help a lot of the local dealers.
Read between the lines at what the GM folks like Bob Lutz say and you get the sense that there is a dramatic culture change going on in Detroit. Bankruptcy may have been a humbling experience and the philosopy may have shifted from "We're No. 1" to the old Avis Rental Car Tagline, "We Try Harder."
What do you all think?
GM only lost $1.2 billion in the last quarter. You know, the last time we only lost $1.2 billion, we were celebrating too.
But seriously folks, GM is making a come back and that is good news for a lot of folks, including taxpayers, local car dealers and in turn, our local economy.
What's really important here is that car buyers begin to see products made by the big three as competitive with those from Europe and Asia. GM and Ford have made great progress in improving quality and in their designs. Take a look at that CTS or the SRX. Look at the LaCrosse and keep an eye out for the new Buick Regal. These are good cars that should help GM increase its market share, which in turn will help a lot of the local dealers.
Read between the lines at what the GM folks like Bob Lutz say and you get the sense that there is a dramatic culture change going on in Detroit. Bankruptcy may have been a humbling experience and the philosopy may have shifted from "We're No. 1" to the old Avis Rental Car Tagline, "We Try Harder."
What do you all think?
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
The South Florida automotive retail community was rocked this week when news broke that Ed Morse, who built a local automotive empire, was reportedly conned out of $58 million by his attorney, a guy who right now is in some pretty serious trouble facing accusations that go way beyond his dealings with the Morse family.
The fact that an 88-year-old war veteran was bilked by a man that he trusted – who reported forged signatures of federal judges and faked documents – is tragic enough. But what is even more disheartening is that because Mr. Morse was a car dealer, some find it hard to be sympathetic.
The reality is that the Morse family has given millions of dollars – through their dealerships and probably personally – to organizations throughout this community. Like most of the other car dealers, they are important members of the communities they live in and they are strong supporters of everything from local chambers of commerce to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. The dealerships that the company owns will not be impacted by the deceit but it is safe to say that the Morses will. And no matter what you think of car dealers, you have to agree that it is a sad and disheartening situation. One can only hope that the Morses recover some of their losses.
The fact that an 88-year-old war veteran was bilked by a man that he trusted – who reported forged signatures of federal judges and faked documents – is tragic enough. But what is even more disheartening is that because Mr. Morse was a car dealer, some find it hard to be sympathetic.
The reality is that the Morse family has given millions of dollars – through their dealerships and probably personally – to organizations throughout this community. Like most of the other car dealers, they are important members of the communities they live in and they are strong supporters of everything from local chambers of commerce to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. The dealerships that the company owns will not be impacted by the deceit but it is safe to say that the Morses will. And no matter what you think of car dealers, you have to agree that it is a sad and disheartening situation. One can only hope that the Morses recover some of their losses.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Deductible Reasoning
Okay, so we're heading toward the end of the year and really, not too many folks are thinking about their taxes, right?
Well, maybe we should, especially if we're thinking about buying a new car. On top of end of the year incentives being offered by manufacturers, your Uncle Sam might be willing to help give you some "green" if you go green.
And, here's the best part. You don't have to buy a little puddle jumper to qualify for government tax credits. If you've read earlier posts on this blog, you know that we're big fans of diesel-powered vehicles as alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. It's proven technology and for folks like us – who want to be driving a car for 20 years – the engines last forever.
In a few months, when a tax refund sure would come in handy, it might make sense to buy a diesel with a $1,700 tax credit, like the VW Golf/Rabbit TDI or an Audi A3 TDI with a tax credit of $1,300. You can get a $1,800 tax credit on selected Mercedes and BMW SUVs and $1,150 on the Audi Q7 TDI.
To see the whole list, go to http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxLeanburn.shtml
Make sure you click on "all" in the chart.
Well, maybe we should, especially if we're thinking about buying a new car. On top of end of the year incentives being offered by manufacturers, your Uncle Sam might be willing to help give you some "green" if you go green.
And, here's the best part. You don't have to buy a little puddle jumper to qualify for government tax credits. If you've read earlier posts on this blog, you know that we're big fans of diesel-powered vehicles as alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. It's proven technology and for folks like us – who want to be driving a car for 20 years – the engines last forever.
In a few months, when a tax refund sure would come in handy, it might make sense to buy a diesel with a $1,700 tax credit, like the VW Golf/Rabbit TDI or an Audi A3 TDI with a tax credit of $1,300. You can get a $1,800 tax credit on selected Mercedes and BMW SUVs and $1,150 on the Audi Q7 TDI.
To see the whole list, go to http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxLeanburn.shtml
Make sure you click on "all" in the chart.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
No conFUSION here!
You won't often find us issuing superlatives or saying great things about one car or another on this blog because, in all honesty, most of the cars out there today are pretty good. Just like people, some are better looking than others, some have more personality and some are more reliable. And they're a little bit like your kids – you appreciate them all for what they have to offer.
Still, its hard not to say good things about a car that stands out above all the rest in its class - especially when everyone else seems to have caught on.
Ford today announced that it has sold 150,000 Fusions this year. a new sales record and the year isn't close to being over. You can say Cash for Clunkers had something to do with it, or you could say that maybe more Fusions are being used by fleets or rental companies. But here's the bottom line.
It's a great car at a great price.
And the price might be getting even better thanks to year-end incentives of up to $1,500 that Ford is offering. With an MSRP just under $20,000 before rebates, the Fusion is very affordable. And here in South Florida, where Ford is trying to gain more market share and dealers are trying to survive, you may find even better pricing.
Even if you're one of those folks that loves the imports, you should check out the Fusion before buying a car. It's worth the test drive.
Be interested to hear comments from Fusion owners or those who rented one and drove it for a while.
Still, its hard not to say good things about a car that stands out above all the rest in its class - especially when everyone else seems to have caught on.
Ford today announced that it has sold 150,000 Fusions this year. a new sales record and the year isn't close to being over. You can say Cash for Clunkers had something to do with it, or you could say that maybe more Fusions are being used by fleets or rental companies. But here's the bottom line.
It's a great car at a great price.
And the price might be getting even better thanks to year-end incentives of up to $1,500 that Ford is offering. With an MSRP just under $20,000 before rebates, the Fusion is very affordable. And here in South Florida, where Ford is trying to gain more market share and dealers are trying to survive, you may find even better pricing.
Even if you're one of those folks that loves the imports, you should check out the Fusion before buying a car. It's worth the test drive.
Be interested to hear comments from Fusion owners or those who rented one and drove it for a while.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
"Braking" the Cycle
Okay, here's a number that will scare the daylights out of just about anyone with teenagers who are driving. The number one killer of teens in our nation isn't violence. It's not cancer, falls or even any other illness. Vehicle crashes are the number one killer of teens in America.
If you remember just how good a driver you were when you first got your license, then you can see how this statistic makes a lot of sense. There are a lot of reasons why kids get into more accidents and they range from the obvious – inexperience – to the physiological – their brains aren't fully developed.
There's a lot being done to address this problem but one of the best programs out there is the Ford Driving Skills for Life. Aside from the fact that it is a national program with top-notch proven instructors, what makes this program so good is that it is FREE.
The Ford team will be in South Florida next week – Wednesday and Thursday – and there are still a few spots open in the afternoon . They'll be at the Homestead Speedway, which is, as my mother would say, "a schlep" but it's worth it.
If you have kids between 15 and 19, or you are a kid in that age group, you should check out the website www.drivingskillsforlife.com
Maybe, just maybe, the folks at Ford will like South Florida so much that they'll bring this program back – a little farther north – during winter or spring break.
Meanwhile, if you're a young driver and you have time, check out the website and if you can, sign up. It's fun and it's an easy way to make your mother happy.
If you remember just how good a driver you were when you first got your license, then you can see how this statistic makes a lot of sense. There are a lot of reasons why kids get into more accidents and they range from the obvious – inexperience – to the physiological – their brains aren't fully developed.
There's a lot being done to address this problem but one of the best programs out there is the Ford Driving Skills for Life. Aside from the fact that it is a national program with top-notch proven instructors, what makes this program so good is that it is FREE.
The Ford team will be in South Florida next week – Wednesday and Thursday – and there are still a few spots open in the afternoon . They'll be at the Homestead Speedway, which is, as my mother would say, "a schlep" but it's worth it.
If you have kids between 15 and 19, or you are a kid in that age group, you should check out the website www.drivingskillsforlife.com
Maybe, just maybe, the folks at Ford will like South Florida so much that they'll bring this program back – a little farther north – during winter or spring break.
Meanwhile, if you're a young driver and you have time, check out the website and if you can, sign up. It's fun and it's an easy way to make your mother happy.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Charging up Cadillac
If you were at the South Florida International Auto Show a few weeks ago, you may have seen the Cadillac Converj, a concept car that is actually a plug-in hybrid. Well, the scuttlebutt around Detroit is that the Converj is going to go into production for 2011 or 2012.
And that begs what you might call the $75,000 question.
Will anyone buy it for about $75,000?
The answer is "who knows?"
Conventional wisdom says that an electric Cadillac is something of an oxymoron. Most folks who drive a CTS or an SRX like the power that comes with bigger engines. But the brain trust at GM thinks there's a market for these luxury plug-in hybrids. So the Converj, it seems, could end up being the Chevy Volt's rich sister. But is there really a need for two plug-in hybrids in the same family?
If they're smart, the Cadillac folks will keep an eye on the sales numbers of the new Lexus hybrid. Although it is a traditional hybrid, it's still could be a great barometer of how luxury hybrids will do. And there's no better place to look than here in South Florida, where there seemingly is a luxury vehicle everywhere you turn.
Maybe GM will recognize that the Converj is a great car and will be a great car even with a traditional gasoline powered engine. Or better yet, how about diesel?
If ever there was an American car that be a great fit for a diesel engine, well, the Converj might be it.
And that begs what you might call the $75,000 question.
Will anyone buy it for about $75,000?
The answer is "who knows?"
Conventional wisdom says that an electric Cadillac is something of an oxymoron. Most folks who drive a CTS or an SRX like the power that comes with bigger engines. But the brain trust at GM thinks there's a market for these luxury plug-in hybrids. So the Converj, it seems, could end up being the Chevy Volt's rich sister. But is there really a need for two plug-in hybrids in the same family?
If they're smart, the Cadillac folks will keep an eye on the sales numbers of the new Lexus hybrid. Although it is a traditional hybrid, it's still could be a great barometer of how luxury hybrids will do. And there's no better place to look than here in South Florida, where there seemingly is a luxury vehicle everywhere you turn.
Maybe GM will recognize that the Converj is a great car and will be a great car even with a traditional gasoline powered engine. Or better yet, how about diesel?
If ever there was an American car that be a great fit for a diesel engine, well, the Converj might be it.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Top of the List
Automotive News, the top trade publication for those in the auto retail industry, came out with a list this week of the 50 visionary auto dealers who "turned up new ways to satisfy customers, move metal, boost profits and get along with the factory."
Top on the list are three names familiar to anyone in South Florida who knows anything about cars. Jim Moran the Courtesy Man who built JM Family Enterprises tops the list and then just below him are Mike Jackson and Mike Maroone, the pair at the top of AutoNation. Interestingly, another household name to South Florida residents, Wayne Huizenga is also recognized, an rightly so. Yeah, he's an entrepreneur who made a name for himself with trash, but he was also the guy who brought us public auto dealership companies. Also on the list is Ed Mullinax, who was one of the first to sell his dealerships to AutoNation and who was also one of the first to implement no-haggle selling.
Of course this reinforces what those of us who live in South Florida and follow the car industry already know and that's that some of the smartest folks in the business are right here in our backyard.
Top on the list are three names familiar to anyone in South Florida who knows anything about cars. Jim Moran the Courtesy Man who built JM Family Enterprises tops the list and then just below him are Mike Jackson and Mike Maroone, the pair at the top of AutoNation. Interestingly, another household name to South Florida residents, Wayne Huizenga is also recognized, an rightly so. Yeah, he's an entrepreneur who made a name for himself with trash, but he was also the guy who brought us public auto dealership companies. Also on the list is Ed Mullinax, who was one of the first to sell his dealerships to AutoNation and who was also one of the first to implement no-haggle selling.
Of course this reinforces what those of us who live in South Florida and follow the car industry already know and that's that some of the smartest folks in the business are right here in our backyard.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
A World of Hope
Carlos Ghosn, the head of Nissan, was the bearer of good news today.
Ghosn sees the global automotive market rebounding thanks to increased demand.
Here in the U.S. there is an expectation of growth and the same holds true for India and China.
But Europe, not so much.
One bright spot for us here in South Florida is the belief that the South American market for cars will increase. That could be good news for our region which benefits when South America is doing well.
One of the interesting things about the automotive business is that for many companies, Ford especially, overseas can be critical. Ford is not the strongest competitor in the US market and when things were going south, it depended highly on its overseas sales to survive.
The folks running Ford are smart - and obviously GM is seeing the value of overseas sales since it decided to keep the Opel brand and grow that business.
Once again, optimism about the future of the car market is a good thing. Lets home the car buyers don't disappoint us.
Ghosn sees the global automotive market rebounding thanks to increased demand.
Here in the U.S. there is an expectation of growth and the same holds true for India and China.
But Europe, not so much.
One bright spot for us here in South Florida is the belief that the South American market for cars will increase. That could be good news for our region which benefits when South America is doing well.
One of the interesting things about the automotive business is that for many companies, Ford especially, overseas can be critical. Ford is not the strongest competitor in the US market and when things were going south, it depended highly on its overseas sales to survive.
The folks running Ford are smart - and obviously GM is seeing the value of overseas sales since it decided to keep the Opel brand and grow that business.
Once again, optimism about the future of the car market is a good thing. Lets home the car buyers don't disappoint us.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
The oily bird catches the . . .
Next time you need an oil change, you might want to drive right on by you local quickie lube or tire store and check out you local car dealer.
In fact, you might be wanting to read the paper – The South Florida Sun Sentinel, of course – to find out what dealers are offering what because even if you drive a Nissan, you might get a good deal on an oil change at the local Toyota dealer.
Across the country, car dealers are offering great prices on oil changes at their "Express" stations. They know that if you're there at their dealership for an oil change, you might come back when its time for, say, a new A/C system or a new radiator. And they also know you might be inclined to be looking at a new car in their showroom, while you wait.
In the car business, it's all about relationships and most of us will go back to folk we trust and think are interested in doing what's right for us.
If your car is under warranty, it's important – no matter where you bring your car for an oil change, to make sure that you are getting the grade of oil specified in the owner's manual. There are warranty companies that will deny coverage if you put in 10W40 instead of 10W30 so be sure to check and convey that to your dealer. Most dealers are honest and will do it right. When it comes to oil changes, not everyone is slippery.
In fact, you might be wanting to read the paper – The South Florida Sun Sentinel, of course – to find out what dealers are offering what because even if you drive a Nissan, you might get a good deal on an oil change at the local Toyota dealer.
Across the country, car dealers are offering great prices on oil changes at their "Express" stations. They know that if you're there at their dealership for an oil change, you might come back when its time for, say, a new A/C system or a new radiator. And they also know you might be inclined to be looking at a new car in their showroom, while you wait.
In the car business, it's all about relationships and most of us will go back to folk we trust and think are interested in doing what's right for us.
If your car is under warranty, it's important – no matter where you bring your car for an oil change, to make sure that you are getting the grade of oil specified in the owner's manual. There are warranty companies that will deny coverage if you put in 10W40 instead of 10W30 so be sure to check and convey that to your dealer. Most dealers are honest and will do it right. When it comes to oil changes, not everyone is slippery.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Another Belt for the Road
You have to love new technology - and you have to love Ford's desire to get out in front of the universe when it comes to harnessing new technology in well, a harness. Ford's wacky thinking engineers - the folks who came up with SYNC and other cool stuff, have figured out how to put an airbag in a seatbelt.
The airbags in a seatbelt are set to debut in the 2011 Ford Explorer and will be available for rear seat passengers only. The logic is this: kids and older folks are more likely to be in the back seat and they're the ones that can be hurt the most in a collision causing head and neck injuries.
The airbags in the seatbelt inflate a little slower than traditional airbags but form a cushion that keeps the passenger's head from jerking forward and to the side.
The best way to understand how it works is to go to the video on YouTube, which shows the seatbelts in action and has a couple of talking heads explaining why it's so cool. Here's the link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ5dFCveh2c
This is just one more example, if you ask me, of how smart companies are making vehicles safer. Although the airbag in a seatbelt is optional, if you have kids and they ride with you a lot, well, there really isn't much to think about.
The airbags in a seatbelt are set to debut in the 2011 Ford Explorer and will be available for rear seat passengers only. The logic is this: kids and older folks are more likely to be in the back seat and they're the ones that can be hurt the most in a collision causing head and neck injuries.
The airbags in the seatbelt inflate a little slower than traditional airbags but form a cushion that keeps the passenger's head from jerking forward and to the side.
The best way to understand how it works is to go to the video on YouTube, which shows the seatbelts in action and has a couple of talking heads explaining why it's so cool. Here's the link.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ5dFCveh2c
This is just one more example, if you ask me, of how smart companies are making vehicles safer. Although the airbag in a seatbelt is optional, if you have kids and they ride with you a lot, well, there really isn't much to think about.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Buying the Numbers
The October numbers are in for car dealers, and the news is - drum roll please - pretty darn good. If you follow the auto news, you know that GM had a really good month, with car sales up 5 percent. The company actually sold 176,630 cars last month compared 169,700 last October, a month that in all fairness wasn't a very good one for any business.
But the fact that auto sales overall were up last month, without any government programs or incentives, is good news for dealerships, good news for the economy overall and good news for car buyers.
It also shows that maybe some of the knucklehead on TV who blasted the government for helping the car companies don't know what the heck they're talking about that. But we already knew that.
While there's a lot of interesting stuff in the numbers, one thing that pops out is how well luxury brands did -- and that's good news here in South Florida.
Porsche was up 15 percent over last October, Mercedes up 9 percent and Jagular/Landrover up 5 percent.
Don't have local breakdowns yet but I can tell South Florida Hyundai dealers led the nation when it came to selling the Genesis, the closest thing the company has in the U.S. to a luxury car.
Coconut Creek Hyundai and Napleton Hyundai in West Palm shared top Genesis sales in the nation, further reinforcing that this is indeed a great luxury market.
Lets hope that next month's numbers are just as good.
But the fact that auto sales overall were up last month, without any government programs or incentives, is good news for dealerships, good news for the economy overall and good news for car buyers.
It also shows that maybe some of the knucklehead on TV who blasted the government for helping the car companies don't know what the heck they're talking about that. But we already knew that.
While there's a lot of interesting stuff in the numbers, one thing that pops out is how well luxury brands did -- and that's good news here in South Florida.
Porsche was up 15 percent over last October, Mercedes up 9 percent and Jagular/Landrover up 5 percent.
Don't have local breakdowns yet but I can tell South Florida Hyundai dealers led the nation when it came to selling the Genesis, the closest thing the company has in the U.S. to a luxury car.
Coconut Creek Hyundai and Napleton Hyundai in West Palm shared top Genesis sales in the nation, further reinforcing that this is indeed a great luxury market.
Lets hope that next month's numbers are just as good.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Keeping Your Cool
Here in South Florida, auto air conditioning isn't an option. It's a necessity.
But with gas prices climbing, running the a/c can be costly.
The good news is that it doesn't have to be.
Once again our friends in Europe are one step ahead of us, driving cars with something called variable displacement compressors. In most cars here in the US, our A/C compressor is always on. With the variable compressors, the key to your cool only runs when it senses that the cabin temperature is warming up.
Europeans will tell you that these compressors are 20 percent more efficient than the standard ones.
According to a story in Automotive News, we may be starting to see these compressors coming our way soon. Already, the Audi A3 comes with them, as does it's fraternal twin, the VW Passat.
If you get a chance to get one of these on your new car in the next few years, well, grab it.
But with gas prices climbing, running the a/c can be costly.
The good news is that it doesn't have to be.
Once again our friends in Europe are one step ahead of us, driving cars with something called variable displacement compressors. In most cars here in the US, our A/C compressor is always on. With the variable compressors, the key to your cool only runs when it senses that the cabin temperature is warming up.
Europeans will tell you that these compressors are 20 percent more efficient than the standard ones.
According to a story in Automotive News, we may be starting to see these compressors coming our way soon. Already, the Audi A3 comes with them, as does it's fraternal twin, the VW Passat.
If you get a chance to get one of these on your new car in the next few years, well, grab it.
A Horse in the House
Want to see one of the coolest cars not yet on the road?
If so, you'll want to get over to Rick Case Hyundai at 441 and Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale before 9 p.m. tonight to see the 2011 Equus.
Now, if you were lucky enough to see the Equus at the South Florida International Auto Show last week or while it was on display at one of the local dealerships in September, you know that this is a one-of-a-kind luxury car.
Want reclining seats in the back? This car's got it.
Want just about every luxury you can imagine? This is the car for you.
And the best part – you don't have to be loaded to afford it. And even if you are, people won't figure it out cause you're driving a Hyundai, for crying out loud.
But check it out, this is a car that people will be talking about for a long time once it hits the road.
If you want to know more, call Rick Case Hyundai at 954-581-5885
If so, you'll want to get over to Rick Case Hyundai at 441 and Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale before 9 p.m. tonight to see the 2011 Equus.
Now, if you were lucky enough to see the Equus at the South Florida International Auto Show last week or while it was on display at one of the local dealerships in September, you know that this is a one-of-a-kind luxury car.
Want reclining seats in the back? This car's got it.
Want just about every luxury you can imagine? This is the car for you.
And the best part – you don't have to be loaded to afford it. And even if you are, people won't figure it out cause you're driving a Hyundai, for crying out loud.
But check it out, this is a car that people will be talking about for a long time once it hits the road.
If you want to know more, call Rick Case Hyundai at 954-581-5885
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Cutting Edge
There was good news for Fort Lauderdale-based AutoNation last week as the company reported that it earned $65 million in the third quarter of this year, compared to a big loss last year during the same time period.
But while the bottom line looks good, the top line - well not so much.
Sales revenue was down about 13 percent for the year, and that was bolstered a bit by cash for clunkers.
So how does the nation's largest auto retailer make money when its sales revenues are down?
Well maybe some of the profits came from other parts of the business - service, finance and insurance and maybe used cars.
But the big difference maker was cost cutting. Expenses for the period fell 10 percent to $380 million. It's good that AutoNation could find areas to cut but the problem is simply this.
You can't save your way to prosperity.
And eventually you're going to have to cut to the bone, which could impact your effectiveness.
AutoNation is a good company led by very smart and talented people. How they do in the coming year will be the real test of just how good they are. All of us in South Florida should be pulling for them.
But while the bottom line looks good, the top line - well not so much.
Sales revenue was down about 13 percent for the year, and that was bolstered a bit by cash for clunkers.
So how does the nation's largest auto retailer make money when its sales revenues are down?
Well maybe some of the profits came from other parts of the business - service, finance and insurance and maybe used cars.
But the big difference maker was cost cutting. Expenses for the period fell 10 percent to $380 million. It's good that AutoNation could find areas to cut but the problem is simply this.
You can't save your way to prosperity.
And eventually you're going to have to cut to the bone, which could impact your effectiveness.
AutoNation is a good company led by very smart and talented people. How they do in the coming year will be the real test of just how good they are. All of us in South Florida should be pulling for them.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Wheelie Live TV
Okay, so you're on you're way to Miami and you just gotta know what's going on with say, oh the little kid who is supposed to be gliding all over Colorado in a homemade flying saucer. The radio isn't helping but you know beyond a doubt that CNN is giving it round the clock coverage.
What can you do?
Well, if you buy a Chrysler product in a few months, you can turn to your passenger in the back seat to get a play-by-play description of what he or she is seeing on live TV.
Chrysler yesterday announced a partnership with a company called Flo TV that will make it possible to get live television in your car.
So if the kids want to see their favorite cartoons on Saturday morning on the way to soccer practice, now you may be golden. There's one hitch. The service will only be available in about 100 markets by the end of the year and there's no way of knowing if South Florida is one of those markets.
Just a guess, but chances are it won't be long before every manufacturer is offering some version of this new technology making it possible to never miss your favorite show.
Now, you can even go out and sit in the car and watch what you want to watch if your spouse won't relinquish the remote!
What can you do?
Well, if you buy a Chrysler product in a few months, you can turn to your passenger in the back seat to get a play-by-play description of what he or she is seeing on live TV.
Chrysler yesterday announced a partnership with a company called Flo TV that will make it possible to get live television in your car.
So if the kids want to see their favorite cartoons on Saturday morning on the way to soccer practice, now you may be golden. There's one hitch. The service will only be available in about 100 markets by the end of the year and there's no way of knowing if South Florida is one of those markets.
Just a guess, but chances are it won't be long before every manufacturer is offering some version of this new technology making it possible to never miss your favorite show.
Now, you can even go out and sit in the car and watch what you want to watch if your spouse won't relinquish the remote!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Halloween Eye Candy
If you're a Cadillac dealer, you have to be a little frustrated these days with the inability of younger car buyers to get the message that the new SRX, the Escalade and the CTS are not just for folks who are living in "55 and over" only communities. Bob Lutz and the top marketing brass at GM aren't helping either, thank you very much, with decisions to get away from commercials like those featuring Kate Walsh talking about her car turning her on.
So local dealers are on their own and at least one is taking steps to get families back to the Cadillac showroom. This Halloween Saturday, Ed Morse Cadillac Delray Beach will be holding a Truck or Treat event with the goal of getting prospective young Lexus, BMW and Mercedes buyers to think Cadillac.
Located at 2300 S. Federal Highway in Delray Beach, the dealership will be filling the trunks of six or seven vehicles with Halloween candy. Students from Florida Atlantic University will be standing by to hand out the goodies to youngsters, and while costumes are welcome, they’re not required.
While youngsters are getting their fill of candy, parents can check out some of the newest Cadillac offerings, including the new SRX and the CTS Sports Wagon.
Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you're a car person, you might want to head toward the dealership on Saturday, just to check out the cars and maybe get a free lunch in the process.
So local dealers are on their own and at least one is taking steps to get families back to the Cadillac showroom. This Halloween Saturday, Ed Morse Cadillac Delray Beach will be holding a Truck or Treat event with the goal of getting prospective young Lexus, BMW and Mercedes buyers to think Cadillac.
Located at 2300 S. Federal Highway in Delray Beach, the dealership will be filling the trunks of six or seven vehicles with Halloween candy. Students from Florida Atlantic University will be standing by to hand out the goodies to youngsters, and while costumes are welcome, they’re not required.
While youngsters are getting their fill of candy, parents can check out some of the newest Cadillac offerings, including the new SRX and the CTS Sports Wagon.
Hamburgers and hot dogs will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If you're a car person, you might want to head toward the dealership on Saturday, just to check out the cars and maybe get a free lunch in the process.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Moving Ford-ward With Quality
Consumer Reports came out with its latest reliability rankings yesterday and as you might expect a Toyota –the Prius – topped the list as the most reliable family sedan. But there was a bit of a surprise in that Ford's Fusion and it's fraternal twin, the Mercury Milan, came in next, ahead of imports including the Accord and Camry. Overall, 46 of Ford's 51 models had average or better than average reliability scores and the company led domestic automakers for quality.
If you've been driving a Ford or GM product, you know that the quality of cars made by U.S. based companies has been getting better all the time. Chrysler is still fighting a little bit of a battle, at least according to the latest Consumer Reports study.
The challenge for all these companies is to change perception and while getting good ratings from Consumer Reports helps, there's really only one way to get people to see the quality improvement and that's to get them in the cars.
Don't be surprised if you see more print and TV ads from Ford and Lincoln Mercury, especially here in South Florida where the market penetration of these brands can stand some improvement.
If you've been driving a Ford or GM product, you know that the quality of cars made by U.S. based companies has been getting better all the time. Chrysler is still fighting a little bit of a battle, at least according to the latest Consumer Reports study.
The challenge for all these companies is to change perception and while getting good ratings from Consumer Reports helps, there's really only one way to get people to see the quality improvement and that's to get them in the cars.
Don't be surprised if you see more print and TV ads from Ford and Lincoln Mercury, especially here in South Florida where the market penetration of these brands can stand some improvement.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Some Are Solstice?
Vice President Joe Biden is expected to make an announcement today about the future of a closed GM plant in Wilmington, Del. and he will be joined by Henrik Fisker of Fisker Automotive, a venture capital firm. Reports are that the plant, which once made the Pontiac Solstice and the Saturn Sky, has been purchased by Fisker and will be re-opening and producing a new plug-in hybrid that Fisker will produce.
But there's an interesting side story here.
The same plant has been mentioned repeatedly by the folks DeLorean Motor Company as the place where the company would manufacturer the new DeLorean Solstice, its version of what is a great looking two-seater.
DeLorean, which currently focuses on selling DeLorean parts and restoring the cars, which haven't been made for two decades, even has a web site, newdelorean.com, where it announced the DeLorean Solstice, hoping to get interest. There have been some reports mentioning that the car would be an electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid.
To make this wild idea a reality, DeLorean would need some serious investors.
If Fisker takes over the plant, will that spell the end of the DeLorean plan? Or might there be something else in the works here.
My guess is that a lot of folks in South Florida, home to one of the most vibrant DeLorean clubs in the country, will be interested in hearing what Mr. Vice President says today at 10 a.m. If DeLorean and Solstice both make come backs, well it certainly would be a good day for fans of either - or both.
But there's an interesting side story here.
The same plant has been mentioned repeatedly by the folks DeLorean Motor Company as the place where the company would manufacturer the new DeLorean Solstice, its version of what is a great looking two-seater.
DeLorean, which currently focuses on selling DeLorean parts and restoring the cars, which haven't been made for two decades, even has a web site, newdelorean.com, where it announced the DeLorean Solstice, hoping to get interest. There have been some reports mentioning that the car would be an electric vehicle or a plug-in hybrid.
To make this wild idea a reality, DeLorean would need some serious investors.
If Fisker takes over the plant, will that spell the end of the DeLorean plan? Or might there be something else in the works here.
My guess is that a lot of folks in South Florida, home to one of the most vibrant DeLorean clubs in the country, will be interested in hearing what Mr. Vice President says today at 10 a.m. If DeLorean and Solstice both make come backs, well it certainly would be a good day for fans of either - or both.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Marino With the Pitch
Beginning next week, the Maroone dealerships in South Florida will be offering seven-day service and they're going to their favorite quarterback to tell the story.
Dan Marino, old number 13, will be the star of TV spots announcing seven-day service at all of the Maroone/Autonation stores in the area. One of the spots you'll see shows Marino holding a news conference and announcing, in Clark Kent-like style, that he's switching his number to 7 in honor of the new seven-day service.
Okay, so Marino won't be going to Super Bowl Sunday with this ad, but he does a good job of getting the word out about the seven day service.
That in itself might be a story.
With new car sales down, dealerships all over the place are reaching out to service customers, hoping to grab an increased share of the market. Does it make sense? You betcha. Just do the math.
There are more people holding onto their cars in this economy, rather than buying new ones and there are going to be fewer dealerships, especially on the domestic side, as consolidation continues. That means more cars in need of service, fewer dealerships to do it. On top of that, service departments have always been a great money maker for auto dealers.
And see, you thought Marino was just another pretty face. Those folks in the AutoNation building in Fort Lauderdale, they're pretty smart, eh?
Dan Marino, old number 13, will be the star of TV spots announcing seven-day service at all of the Maroone/Autonation stores in the area. One of the spots you'll see shows Marino holding a news conference and announcing, in Clark Kent-like style, that he's switching his number to 7 in honor of the new seven-day service.
Okay, so Marino won't be going to Super Bowl Sunday with this ad, but he does a good job of getting the word out about the seven day service.
That in itself might be a story.
With new car sales down, dealerships all over the place are reaching out to service customers, hoping to grab an increased share of the market. Does it make sense? You betcha. Just do the math.
There are more people holding onto their cars in this economy, rather than buying new ones and there are going to be fewer dealerships, especially on the domestic side, as consolidation continues. That means more cars in need of service, fewer dealerships to do it. On top of that, service departments have always been a great money maker for auto dealers.
And see, you thought Marino was just another pretty face. Those folks in the AutoNation building in Fort Lauderdale, they're pretty smart, eh?
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Room for One More
There are close to 1,000 cars packed into the Miami Beach Convention Center for the 39th Annual South Florida International Car show.
On Saturday morning that number increased by one as a taxi cab plowed through the plate glass doors of the Convention Center while the driver scuffled with a would-be robber.
Fortunately the accident occurred early in the morning, somewhere around 5 a.m. and no one was seriously injured.
According to WPLG, Channel 10, the cab driver picked up a fare near the convention center and a short time later felt a sharp object against his neck as the passenger demanded cash and jewelry.
There was a struggle, the car crashed into the front of the convention center and the bad guy got away.
Based on the photo on Channel 10's web site, the cab looks like a Ford Crown Victoria. That's good - Ford could use it in its display, especially since the Crown Vic, doesn't show up on the lineup of cars on the website.
On Saturday morning that number increased by one as a taxi cab plowed through the plate glass doors of the Convention Center while the driver scuffled with a would-be robber.
Fortunately the accident occurred early in the morning, somewhere around 5 a.m. and no one was seriously injured.
According to WPLG, Channel 10, the cab driver picked up a fare near the convention center and a short time later felt a sharp object against his neck as the passenger demanded cash and jewelry.
There was a struggle, the car crashed into the front of the convention center and the bad guy got away.
Based on the photo on Channel 10's web site, the cab looks like a Ford Crown Victoria. That's good - Ford could use it in its display, especially since the Crown Vic, doesn't show up on the lineup of cars on the website.
Button Down for Safety
This is South Florida, the luxury car capital of America.
Think about it. Dealerships in our area are consistently among the top when it comes to selling luxury cars. South Florida is home to the top Audi dealership, the top BMW dealership, leading Infinity, Lexus and Jaguar dealerships. Cadillac and Lincoln Mercury dealerships are also doing well here, and let's not forget Hyundai, which is going to send shock waves through the luxury market with it Equus.
Along with luxury, comes cool technology that can improve safety and enhance convenience. But now there are questions arising about whether one of those convenience gizmos is actually detrimental to passenger safety – that's the keyless start button. You may have read reports about the August incident in California in which a car's accelerator got stuck and the driver and passenger didn't know how to shut the car off.
If you drive a car with a keyless start button, you need to know this: In most of the vehicles, to turn the engine off in an emergency, hold the button down for at least three seconds. Better yet, read your owners manual to find out what the manufacturer says.
But here's something else to know. Most experts say that if you are in a situation where you lose control of the accelerator, the best thing to do is put the car in neutral and safely glide or brake to a stop. You may need to take your foot off the brake for a second or two while you move the gear shifter, but taking the car out of drive is probably your best bet.
Manufacturers are doing a lot these days to enhance our safety, but all of us need to remember we have a shared responsibility to stay informed and make sure we have an idea of what to do in an emergency situation. A quick reminder to a young driver or to a spouse isn't a bad idea.
Think about it. Dealerships in our area are consistently among the top when it comes to selling luxury cars. South Florida is home to the top Audi dealership, the top BMW dealership, leading Infinity, Lexus and Jaguar dealerships. Cadillac and Lincoln Mercury dealerships are also doing well here, and let's not forget Hyundai, which is going to send shock waves through the luxury market with it Equus.
Along with luxury, comes cool technology that can improve safety and enhance convenience. But now there are questions arising about whether one of those convenience gizmos is actually detrimental to passenger safety – that's the keyless start button. You may have read reports about the August incident in California in which a car's accelerator got stuck and the driver and passenger didn't know how to shut the car off.
If you drive a car with a keyless start button, you need to know this: In most of the vehicles, to turn the engine off in an emergency, hold the button down for at least three seconds. Better yet, read your owners manual to find out what the manufacturer says.
But here's something else to know. Most experts say that if you are in a situation where you lose control of the accelerator, the best thing to do is put the car in neutral and safely glide or brake to a stop. You may need to take your foot off the brake for a second or two while you move the gear shifter, but taking the car out of drive is probably your best bet.
Manufacturers are doing a lot these days to enhance our safety, but all of us need to remember we have a shared responsibility to stay informed and make sure we have an idea of what to do in an emergency situation. A quick reminder to a young driver or to a spouse isn't a bad idea.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Ray of Hope
The 2009 South Florida International Car Show is huge - so big in fact, that you could easily miss two cars that could make a difference in the future of embattled General Motors.
The Stingray concept car, on display as part of the Chevrolet section, is absolutely amazing. The lines are sleek, the look definitely something that will turn your head. You could stare at that car for 20 to 30 minutes and still keep finding something else about it that makes you smile. One of the tricks might be trying to find door handles but you might also notice how the lines of the hood continue over the roof and through the trunk area and how the glass seems to wrap around. There's really no way to describe the car with words. You can find photos online, but if you enjoy looking at cars, then, listen, just go down and see the Stingray.
You could just see that car and get your money's worth - but wait, there's more. Take a peak at the Cadillac Converj concept. This is definitely not your dad's Cadillac. It is as sleek as you can get and just a peek inside and you'll see a dash that is super cool. And true Ed Welburn's commitment to honoring tradition, you'll even see a big of a tailfin on the tail lights.
These are cars that if they go into production will help General Motors rebound. That would be good for GM, good for the industry and good for us taxpayers.
The Stingray concept car, on display as part of the Chevrolet section, is absolutely amazing. The lines are sleek, the look definitely something that will turn your head. You could stare at that car for 20 to 30 minutes and still keep finding something else about it that makes you smile. One of the tricks might be trying to find door handles but you might also notice how the lines of the hood continue over the roof and through the trunk area and how the glass seems to wrap around. There's really no way to describe the car with words. You can find photos online, but if you enjoy looking at cars, then, listen, just go down and see the Stingray.
You could just see that car and get your money's worth - but wait, there's more. Take a peak at the Cadillac Converj concept. This is definitely not your dad's Cadillac. It is as sleek as you can get and just a peek inside and you'll see a dash that is super cool. And true Ed Welburn's commitment to honoring tradition, you'll even see a big of a tailfin on the tail lights.
These are cars that if they go into production will help General Motors rebound. That would be good for GM, good for the industry and good for us taxpayers.
It's Showtime!
The South Florida International Auto Show opens today and despite this being an awful year for the auto industry, the 2009 show at the Miami Beach Convention Center promises to be a pretty good one. One of the neatest new cars, the Hyundai Equus will be on display and there will also be a few vehicles making their North American debut after having an official coming out party in Frankfort last month.
What's interesting is that just about all of the major manufacturers with the exception of just a couple – including Mercedes – will have a presence at the show. And two of the big three domestic car makers, Ford and GM, will have Ride and Drives, so visitors can test drive a few of the new models.
Not sure yet if there are going to be any prototypes or concepts but there are a bunch of news conference scheduled today and we should know more soon. In the meantime go to the website www.southfloridainternationalautoshow.net for more information.
Keep an eye on this blog and don't be shy about asking questions in the comment field.
What's interesting is that just about all of the major manufacturers with the exception of just a couple – including Mercedes – will have a presence at the show. And two of the big three domestic car makers, Ford and GM, will have Ride and Drives, so visitors can test drive a few of the new models.
Not sure yet if there are going to be any prototypes or concepts but there are a bunch of news conference scheduled today and we should know more soon. In the meantime go to the website www.southfloridainternationalautoshow.net for more information.
Keep an eye on this blog and don't be shy about asking questions in the comment field.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Let's Make a Deal
Faced with horrible sales numbers in September and not a lot of hope for October, car makers are once again ramping up incentives aimed at moving inventory. According to Edmunds.com, incentive spending has taken off, especially on models that the companies really want to move. That includes trucks, Pontiac and Saturn models and some luxury models. Offers range from 0 percent financing to rebates of up to $2,500.
Here's an astonishing number. With discounts, incentives and everything else, close to 85 models are now selling for less than they were a year ago.
And that's just from the factory.
Our local auto dealers, they're right there too, trying to move inventory in tough times. It's a good time to be looking at car ads in the paper and going online to sites like cars.com and edmunds.com to check out incentives.
It is indeed a buyer's market and likely to be one for quite a few more months.
Here's an astonishing number. With discounts, incentives and everything else, close to 85 models are now selling for less than they were a year ago.
And that's just from the factory.
Our local auto dealers, they're right there too, trying to move inventory in tough times. It's a good time to be looking at car ads in the paper and going online to sites like cars.com and edmunds.com to check out incentives.
It is indeed a buyer's market and likely to be one for quite a few more months.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Maybe Diesel Work?
If you haven't noticed, Volkswagen and Audi are making a big push when it comes to diesel technology here in the U.S. One thing you can be sure of is that even if you're not taking notice, plenty of others are – especially other manufacturers.
Word out of the Tokyo auto show is that Mazda is keeping a close eye on how Americans respond to VW's diesels. If the response is successful, we may see Japanese manufacturers – which have traditional preferred the more technologically based hybrids – entering into the diesel market.
Watch for the new VW Rabbit TDI, a rebranded VW Golf to start hitting the showrooms in South Florida soon. And don't forget about the Jetta TDI, which is getting a lot of attention these days.
It may take a while, but don't be surprised to find out that more and more diesels are on the U.S. roads.
Word out of the Tokyo auto show is that Mazda is keeping a close eye on how Americans respond to VW's diesels. If the response is successful, we may see Japanese manufacturers – which have traditional preferred the more technologically based hybrids – entering into the diesel market.
Watch for the new VW Rabbit TDI, a rebranded VW Golf to start hitting the showrooms in South Florida soon. And don't forget about the Jetta TDI, which is getting a lot of attention these days.
It may take a while, but don't be surprised to find out that more and more diesels are on the U.S. roads.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Star Power
We all know that technology can make our cars safer.
We all know that it can make them faster and it can make them cooler.
But now it turns out that technology can help police nail car thieves and avoid high-speed chases – disabling vehicles by remote control.
You might say it was OnStar to the rescue.
In the words of Adrian Monk, here's what happened.
According to an AP story, a California man had his 2009 Tahoe stolen at gunpoint early Sunday morning. He told the cops the vehicle had On Star and that helped them track the Tahoe but as they started after it, the driver sped away. Dispatchers, who were on the phone with OnStar operators, told the officers not to worry about chasing the vehicle since OnStar was about to disable the gas pedal. Sure enough the Tahoe rolled to a halt, the bad guy jumped out and the cops nabbed him.
Not all GM vehicles with OnStar have the "stolen vehicle slowdown feature," but OnStar and GM are working to fix that within the next few years. This is just another cool feature that will likely become more widely used in the future.
Score one for the good guys.
We all know that it can make them faster and it can make them cooler.
But now it turns out that technology can help police nail car thieves and avoid high-speed chases – disabling vehicles by remote control.
You might say it was OnStar to the rescue.
In the words of Adrian Monk, here's what happened.
According to an AP story, a California man had his 2009 Tahoe stolen at gunpoint early Sunday morning. He told the cops the vehicle had On Star and that helped them track the Tahoe but as they started after it, the driver sped away. Dispatchers, who were on the phone with OnStar operators, told the officers not to worry about chasing the vehicle since OnStar was about to disable the gas pedal. Sure enough the Tahoe rolled to a halt, the bad guy jumped out and the cops nabbed him.
Not all GM vehicles with OnStar have the "stolen vehicle slowdown feature," but OnStar and GM are working to fix that within the next few years. This is just another cool feature that will likely become more widely used in the future.
Score one for the good guys.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Cadillac Arrest
Remember those great Cadillac ads with Kate Walsh asking if your car returns the favor when you turn it on?
Well, they're history.
Cadillac, whose newly redesigned 2010 SRX will be the official show car of this year's South Florida International Auto Show that begins on Friday, is taking a different approach. Instead of focusing on branding of their products as hot cars and SUVs, Cadillac will start focusing on value.
The goal is to recapture some of the market share, much of it stolen by the imports, that it lost over the last year when sales were down more than 40 percent.
Whether they're doing a good job of getting the word out or not, the reality is that Cadillac has great cars. The SRX is really a great looking crossover and the CTS, well it competes head on with Lincoln's MKS when it comes to winning over drivers who like bigger luxury vehicles. Can they compete on the same level as Lexus, BMW and Mercedes? Maybe focusing on the quality of the product isn't a bad idea.
Still, those sexy ads with the great music – well, they're going to be missed.
Well, they're history.
Cadillac, whose newly redesigned 2010 SRX will be the official show car of this year's South Florida International Auto Show that begins on Friday, is taking a different approach. Instead of focusing on branding of their products as hot cars and SUVs, Cadillac will start focusing on value.
The goal is to recapture some of the market share, much of it stolen by the imports, that it lost over the last year when sales were down more than 40 percent.
Whether they're doing a good job of getting the word out or not, the reality is that Cadillac has great cars. The SRX is really a great looking crossover and the CTS, well it competes head on with Lincoln's MKS when it comes to winning over drivers who like bigger luxury vehicles. Can they compete on the same level as Lexus, BMW and Mercedes? Maybe focusing on the quality of the product isn't a bad idea.
Still, those sexy ads with the great music – well, they're going to be missed.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Eyes on the Road
You might think that texting or talking on a cellphone are major distractions for drivers but Leasetrader.com, based here in South Florida, found out that's not the case.
In a recent survey of 3,000 drivers, Lease Trader found that kids in the car ranked as the most dangerous distraction among women and road rage ranked as the most dangerous distraction among men.
Here's some scary findings. Women ranked putting on make up while driving as the second most dangerous distraction, followed by messing with the radio. Men ranked eating and drinking (non-alcoholic beverages, you got to hope) as the second most dangerous distraction followed by checking out other drivers. Yeah, like who hasn't done that?
Texting was in the middle of the list for both men and women but as time goes on, unless there is some regulation, that's likely to increase. Especially if those of us of the boomer generation get hooked.
CU La8r!
In a recent survey of 3,000 drivers, Lease Trader found that kids in the car ranked as the most dangerous distraction among women and road rage ranked as the most dangerous distraction among men.
Here's some scary findings. Women ranked putting on make up while driving as the second most dangerous distraction, followed by messing with the radio. Men ranked eating and drinking (non-alcoholic beverages, you got to hope) as the second most dangerous distraction followed by checking out other drivers. Yeah, like who hasn't done that?
Texting was in the middle of the list for both men and women but as time goes on, unless there is some regulation, that's likely to increase. Especially if those of us of the boomer generation get hooked.
CU La8r!
Friday, October 16, 2009
No Fueling
The EPA on Thursday released its list of the most fuel efficient 2010 models and not surprisingly, the Toyota Prius topped the chart. And while the U.S. Government's study had a decidedly Japanese accent, the second car on the list was the Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan hybrid. Rated at 41 in the city and 36 highway, the Fusion/Milan hybrid is a great car.
The EPA also rates fuel efficient vehicles by class and an interesting note is that the Hyundai Sonata received top ratings in the large car category. While the Civic was tops among subcompacts, the VW Jetta TDI (that's a diesel) was second. The VW diesels all scored well, by the way, supporting the theory that diesels should be considered by those who are concerned about saving money on fuel.
Topping the list for the car with the lowest fuel efficiency was the Lamborghini Murcielago, which gets 8 city and 13 highway. But if you're driving one, well, you're probably not worried about gas mileage anyway.
You can get the whole list at http://www.epa.gov/fueleconomy/basicinformation.htm
The EPA also rates fuel efficient vehicles by class and an interesting note is that the Hyundai Sonata received top ratings in the large car category. While the Civic was tops among subcompacts, the VW Jetta TDI (that's a diesel) was second. The VW diesels all scored well, by the way, supporting the theory that diesels should be considered by those who are concerned about saving money on fuel.
Topping the list for the car with the lowest fuel efficiency was the Lamborghini Murcielago, which gets 8 city and 13 highway. But if you're driving one, well, you're probably not worried about gas mileage anyway.
You can get the whole list at http://www.epa.gov/fueleconomy/basicinformation.htm
Thursday, October 15, 2009
T for Two - Or Maybe 7
Want to check out one of the coolest crossovers out there?
If so, you might want to stop by one of several South Florida Lincoln Mercury dealerships tonight for what Lincoln is calling its Star-Studded Evening. Local dealers will be showing off the new MKT, a crossover with a lot of cool gizmos and gadgets that is pretty luxurious. Among the neatest features is a little refrigerator/cooler and a nav system with park assist. The MKT has three rows of seating and the back row can be configured to face the rear, which makes it perfect for tailgating.
Featuring Ford signature technology from EcoBoost – which helps it get gas mileage in the mid 20s, to a SYNC voice-activated system – the MKT is really a perfect crossover for this area, where families want style and convenience.
In some South Florida dealerships, the official unveiling of the MKT tonight will include door prizes, sweepstakes and more. And here's something else. For every test-drive completed during the star-studded evening, $20 will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
So check it out. Call your local Lincoln Mercury dealer to be sure they're participating and then swing on by. It will be worth the trip.
If so, you might want to stop by one of several South Florida Lincoln Mercury dealerships tonight for what Lincoln is calling its Star-Studded Evening. Local dealers will be showing off the new MKT, a crossover with a lot of cool gizmos and gadgets that is pretty luxurious. Among the neatest features is a little refrigerator/cooler and a nav system with park assist. The MKT has three rows of seating and the back row can be configured to face the rear, which makes it perfect for tailgating.
Featuring Ford signature technology from EcoBoost – which helps it get gas mileage in the mid 20s, to a SYNC voice-activated system – the MKT is really a perfect crossover for this area, where families want style and convenience.
In some South Florida dealerships, the official unveiling of the MKT tonight will include door prizes, sweepstakes and more. And here's something else. For every test-drive completed during the star-studded evening, $20 will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
So check it out. Call your local Lincoln Mercury dealer to be sure they're participating and then swing on by. It will be worth the trip.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
You'll Need a Scorecard
The South Florida auto dealer landscape is ever changing, with some dealers coming in and some dealers going out. In a few rare cases – such as with Audi Pembroke Pines – dealerships change from one brand to the next almost overnight.
Well those in the know in South Florida are expecting to see a lot more changes thanks in part to a shrinking number of dealerships – brought to you my manufacturers who are consolidating their outlets – and a shrinking number of brands such as Pontiac.
Those dealers who remain, the strong and smart ones, will be going after market share and will be chasing after buyers who may have been loyal to a brand that no longer exists. Already the manufacturers are gearing up with Toyota saying it will sink $1 billion into national marketing in the fourth quarter and GM also ramping up its marketing efforts. Hyundai, which is one of the few brands with sales growth, is also going to be aggressive. There's a good chance that will trickle down to the local level and that might be good news for local dealers and those in the market for a car. After all, this is most certainly a buyer's market.
Well those in the know in South Florida are expecting to see a lot more changes thanks in part to a shrinking number of dealerships – brought to you my manufacturers who are consolidating their outlets – and a shrinking number of brands such as Pontiac.
Those dealers who remain, the strong and smart ones, will be going after market share and will be chasing after buyers who may have been loyal to a brand that no longer exists. Already the manufacturers are gearing up with Toyota saying it will sink $1 billion into national marketing in the fourth quarter and GM also ramping up its marketing efforts. Hyundai, which is one of the few brands with sales growth, is also going to be aggressive. There's a good chance that will trickle down to the local level and that might be good news for local dealers and those in the market for a car. After all, this is most certainly a buyer's market.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Show Me the Money
As part of its new "May the Best Car Win" ad campaign, GM is offering new car buyers a highly touted chance to return their car in 60 days if they're not happy. But customers can waive that option and receive $500 upfront.
And give a guess what most folks are doing?
According to GM's top management, most car buyers are taking the money and running.
Really, that shouldn't be much of a surprise since "a bird in the hand. . ." At the same time, it says that most car buyers are smart enough to do their homework and check out all the cars out there before plunking down $20,000 or $30,000. Buying a car, obviously, is a purchase consumers take a little more seriously that buying a dress or a pair of shoes, that can be returned in a couple of weeks. Thanks in large part to the Internet and to the resources available, today's car buyers are a smart and educated breed – for the most part – and that's a good thing for the buyers, the dealers and the manufacturers.
And give a guess what most folks are doing?
According to GM's top management, most car buyers are taking the money and running.
Really, that shouldn't be much of a surprise since "a bird in the hand. . ." At the same time, it says that most car buyers are smart enough to do their homework and check out all the cars out there before plunking down $20,000 or $30,000. Buying a car, obviously, is a purchase consumers take a little more seriously that buying a dress or a pair of shoes, that can be returned in a couple of weeks. Thanks in large part to the Internet and to the resources available, today's car buyers are a smart and educated breed – for the most part – and that's a good thing for the buyers, the dealers and the manufacturers.
Monday, October 12, 2009
So long Mr and Mrs. Jones
The days of trying to one-up your neighbors may be going away, at least when it comes to cars, according to some local car dealers and published reports. Not surprisingly, you're likely to see some of the top brands start shifting their advertising message away from luxury and more towards safety, performance and technology.
With the economy being what it is, there is a growing segment of car buyers who can afford high-end luxury vehicles but who don't want to appear inconsiderate of others who are struggling. Business owners who have to let go some of their employees, for example, may feel more comfortable driving an E-Class Mercedes rather than an S-Class or an ES Lexus, rather than an IS.
According to the Automotive News, the number of luxury car buyers who are "downscaling" is on the rise and the economy is probably the driving force. There are, of course, other factors at work here, including gas prices. But this is also very much about appearances and about not wanting to showoff at a time when others are suffering.
Some of the dealers in South Florida are already seeing it and some say it is benefiting them. Talk to a few Hyundai dealers and they'll tell you that the demand for the Genesis is just as hot as ever. And those who had were displaying the 2011 Equus, a luxury car that will be in the $60,000 range when it appears in the US market late next year, say they see this as taking on the big guys.
That said, you can still expect to see a lot of South Florida residents continuing to buy the luxury brands.
With the economy being what it is, there is a growing segment of car buyers who can afford high-end luxury vehicles but who don't want to appear inconsiderate of others who are struggling. Business owners who have to let go some of their employees, for example, may feel more comfortable driving an E-Class Mercedes rather than an S-Class or an ES Lexus, rather than an IS.
According to the Automotive News, the number of luxury car buyers who are "downscaling" is on the rise and the economy is probably the driving force. There are, of course, other factors at work here, including gas prices. But this is also very much about appearances and about not wanting to showoff at a time when others are suffering.
Some of the dealers in South Florida are already seeing it and some say it is benefiting them. Talk to a few Hyundai dealers and they'll tell you that the demand for the Genesis is just as hot as ever. And those who had were displaying the 2011 Equus, a luxury car that will be in the $60,000 range when it appears in the US market late next year, say they see this as taking on the big guys.
That said, you can still expect to see a lot of South Florida residents continuing to buy the luxury brands.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Having a Fiesta
If you missed the On the South Florida Road column in yesterday's Sun Sentinel, the focus (pardon the pun) was on the Ford Fiesta Movement and specifically on Natasha Tsakos. Natasha is an amazing young woman, whose creativity is boundless. Check out her short films, which are very different from what the other agents posted.
When you talk to her, you realize that Natasha is not just creative but very thoughtful as well. She understands that there is a way for creative artists and corporations to work together in a symbionic relationship without having to sacrifice standards to values.
Check out her films. Go to http://www.fiestamovement.com/agents/view/71
Go to youtube and check out her films. My favorite: If Jerry Lewis Had a Fiesta.
When you talk to her, you realize that Natasha is not just creative but very thoughtful as well. She understands that there is a way for creative artists and corporations to work together in a symbionic relationship without having to sacrifice standards to values.
Check out her films. Go to http://www.fiestamovement.com/agents/view/71
Go to youtube and check out her films. My favorite: If Jerry Lewis Had a Fiesta.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Fine China
When you hear talk about the global automotive market, most of what's talked about are the imports.
But here's something that's pretty interesting.
Our big three U.S. also do a lot of exporting of vehicles and in some ways the foreign markets have been more successful for some than the North American market. Not long ago, in a conversation with an executive with one of the big three, I learned that they were doing well outside of the U.S. and that the exports were helping greatly.
So now comes news that GM set a sale record in China in September and that total sales for the first nine months of the year are up 55 percent.
One thing working in GM's favor are Chinese government incentives toward vehicles that are more environmentally friendly and its interesting to note that first time buyers in smaller Chinese cities helped drive GMs numbers.
What does this all mean? Well, perhaps this is a glimmer of good news for the future of GM as it emerges out of bankruptcy. Sure hope so!
But here's something that's pretty interesting.
Our big three U.S. also do a lot of exporting of vehicles and in some ways the foreign markets have been more successful for some than the North American market. Not long ago, in a conversation with an executive with one of the big three, I learned that they were doing well outside of the U.S. and that the exports were helping greatly.
So now comes news that GM set a sale record in China in September and that total sales for the first nine months of the year are up 55 percent.
One thing working in GM's favor are Chinese government incentives toward vehicles that are more environmentally friendly and its interesting to note that first time buyers in smaller Chinese cities helped drive GMs numbers.
What does this all mean? Well, perhaps this is a glimmer of good news for the future of GM as it emerges out of bankruptcy. Sure hope so!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Telling a Story
Word out of Detroit is that Ford will spend 20 percent more on marketing and advertising in the next few months and will go back to its "Drive One" campaign. Ford, which has done better recently than many of its rivals when it comes to sales, is a company that knows how to market well. It also knows how to market efficiently. If you remember to read the On The South Florida Road column coming this Saturday in the Sun Sentinel, you'll see how Ford's Fiesta Movement program is getting the word out about the new Fiesta, with very little upfront spending.
If you want to see what is probably one of the most effective car ads ever, you'll want to click on this link. www.richhumor.com/wp-filez/PerhapstheBestFordCommercia.wmv
Turns out that this was made four or five years ago but it is still making the rounds. You'll want to set aside about three or four minutes. And you might want to have a box of Kleenex handy.
This is storytelling at its best. It is also a fine example of how creativity, art and effective marketing don't have to be mutually exclusive. One can only hope that Ford will continue to invest in this kind of marketing communications. It's good stuff.
If you want to see what is probably one of the most effective car ads ever, you'll want to click on this link. www.richhumor.com/wp-filez/PerhapstheBestFordCommercia.wmv
Turns out that this was made four or five years ago but it is still making the rounds. You'll want to set aside about three or four minutes. And you might want to have a box of Kleenex handy.
This is storytelling at its best. It is also a fine example of how creativity, art and effective marketing don't have to be mutually exclusive. One can only hope that Ford will continue to invest in this kind of marketing communications. It's good stuff.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
It's a Gas, Gas, Gas
Good news. Gas is down to its lowest price in almost three months with the average price per gallon in the US at about $2.47. We're right in the ballpark here in South Florida where we sometimes are a little higher than the national average.
While the drop in price is interesting, the real attention grabber is how the price has changed in just a year. This time last year, according to the feds, the average gallon of gas was about $3.49 or $1.02 more.
There's another neat fact too. According to the department of Energy, the price of diesel is down $1.29 from a year ago. It's still about 11 cents a gallon higher than gasoline, averaging $2.58 a gallon.
While there are still some perceptions about diesel that need to be changed, we Americans may soon be on our way to discovering what our friends in Europe have known for quite some time – that diesel fuel is a viable and cost efficient alternative to gasoline. Today's clean diesel doesn't smell and the engines aren't as noisy as you might remember. And here's the selling point - cars running on diesel get better mileage and on the whole, the engines will last forever. Volkswagen has seen success with its Jetta TDI diesel model and the 2010 Golf TDI, with a highway rating of about 40 miles per gallon, should be making its debut in the next few months.
While the drop in price is interesting, the real attention grabber is how the price has changed in just a year. This time last year, according to the feds, the average gallon of gas was about $3.49 or $1.02 more.
There's another neat fact too. According to the department of Energy, the price of diesel is down $1.29 from a year ago. It's still about 11 cents a gallon higher than gasoline, averaging $2.58 a gallon.
While there are still some perceptions about diesel that need to be changed, we Americans may soon be on our way to discovering what our friends in Europe have known for quite some time – that diesel fuel is a viable and cost efficient alternative to gasoline. Today's clean diesel doesn't smell and the engines aren't as noisy as you might remember. And here's the selling point - cars running on diesel get better mileage and on the whole, the engines will last forever. Volkswagen has seen success with its Jetta TDI diesel model and the 2010 Golf TDI, with a highway rating of about 40 miles per gallon, should be making its debut in the next few months.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Fins to the Left, Fins to the Right
If you read yesterday's Sun Sentinel, you may have seen Cindy Kent's Manager Minute story on Kurt Dennis, the general sales manager at Ed Morse Bayview Cadillac. Cindy, as always, did a great job. I was recently at Bayview to check out the new $10 million remodeling job they did. It's unbelievable, considering what the dealership looked like before. And as impressive as it is on the outside, it's even cooler on the inside. The service waiting area, the boutique – complete with Cadillac Teddy bears and golf bags – and even the bathrooms are first class, pretty much what you would expect from Cadillac.
While I was there, I had a chance to check out the new SRX. If you look closely, you'll see a bit of Cadillac heritage in the tail lights. In a move that would make GM's early design guy Harley Earl proud, Cadillac has added just a hint of fins to the tail lights. The tail fin, a design concept taken from aircraft, helped define Cadillac in the late 40s and early 50s and it is no accident that it is making an all so subtle return, in part because of Ed Welburn, GM's design chief, is a guy who appreciates automotive history.
If you're near Bayview Cadillac, you might want to stop by and check out the new dealership and take a look at the SRX. It's a great looking crossover.
While I was there, I had a chance to check out the new SRX. If you look closely, you'll see a bit of Cadillac heritage in the tail lights. In a move that would make GM's early design guy Harley Earl proud, Cadillac has added just a hint of fins to the tail lights. The tail fin, a design concept taken from aircraft, helped define Cadillac in the late 40s and early 50s and it is no accident that it is making an all so subtle return, in part because of Ed Welburn, GM's design chief, is a guy who appreciates automotive history.
If you're near Bayview Cadillac, you might want to stop by and check out the new dealership and take a look at the SRX. It's a great looking crossover.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Hi Ho Silver
Could it be that as we age as a nation, we want cars that are the same color as our hair?
Once again, South Florida, where white, beige and gray cars are ubiquitous, is setting the trend for the nation, this time with car color preferences. According to PPG Industries, the folks who make car paint and keep track of what's hot and what's not, 25 percent of all new cars sold in the U.S. last year were (gulp) silver!
Some call it silver, some call it gray but no matter what you call it, you have to admit that silver is pretty boring, pretty middle of the road, so to speak.
And that's the point. According to those who study this kind of thing, Silver is appearing because it does blend in. And it supposedly looks great on almost any car.
A silver Lexus, Mercedes or Jag, well maybe.
A silver Mustang, Camaro or Beetle? I don't think so. Well, maybe if it bright and shiny.
To prove a point about the connection between hair color and car color, take a look at this.
Just 15 years ago, when most of us boomers were in our 40s or 50s only about 8 percent of new cars were silver. Today it has tripled.
Personally, I'm fighting the trend. Always liked green or blue cars and probably won't change. Well, maybe we'll go crazy and make our next cars jet black or bright red. Well, maybe not.
Once again, South Florida, where white, beige and gray cars are ubiquitous, is setting the trend for the nation, this time with car color preferences. According to PPG Industries, the folks who make car paint and keep track of what's hot and what's not, 25 percent of all new cars sold in the U.S. last year were (gulp) silver!
Some call it silver, some call it gray but no matter what you call it, you have to admit that silver is pretty boring, pretty middle of the road, so to speak.
And that's the point. According to those who study this kind of thing, Silver is appearing because it does blend in. And it supposedly looks great on almost any car.
A silver Lexus, Mercedes or Jag, well maybe.
A silver Mustang, Camaro or Beetle? I don't think so. Well, maybe if it bright and shiny.
To prove a point about the connection between hair color and car color, take a look at this.
Just 15 years ago, when most of us boomers were in our 40s or 50s only about 8 percent of new cars were silver. Today it has tripled.
Personally, I'm fighting the trend. Always liked green or blue cars and probably won't change. Well, maybe we'll go crazy and make our next cars jet black or bright red. Well, maybe not.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
About This Blog
It has been close to three years since I began writing a weekly column about the South Florida automotive retail industry for the Sun Sentinel. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to meet some great people in the industry and I have come to really enjoy writing about the people, the local industry and about cars.
The goal for this blog is to post interesting tidbits that I come across - through conversations with dealers or others in the industry - and to act as an online continuation of the weekly column.
If you missed it, by the way, yesterday's column talked about Hyundai's new Equus, a luxury car that has just about everything you can think of. The question that remains to be seen is whether luxury buyers will want a Hyundai. Local dealers seem to think so.
The goal for this blog is to post interesting tidbits that I come across - through conversations with dealers or others in the industry - and to act as an online continuation of the weekly column.
If you missed it, by the way, yesterday's column talked about Hyundai's new Equus, a luxury car that has just about everything you can think of. The question that remains to be seen is whether luxury buyers will want a Hyundai. Local dealers seem to think so.
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