Korea: Hyundai Motor Company revealed its all-new Avante compact sedan, its best-selling model worldwide, a week before official sales begin in Korea. The exterior of the new Avante was unveiled at the Busan Motor Show in April.

“Since the first-generation model was launched in 1990, the Avante reached cumulative sales of 6 million units worldwide and received high recognition from a number of world renowned car-rating agencies. This car is truly a powerful brand that represents not only Hyundai Motor but the Republic of Korea,” Steve S. Yang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor, said at the launching ceremony today at Pyeongchang Alpensia Resort in Gangwon Province, Korea. “We’re confident that the new Avante featuring the best styling and performance in its class will once again make a great impact worldwide in addition to the domestic market.”

Although the fifth-generation Avante is a completely new vehicle, Hyundai is retaining the Avante brand name in Korea. Projecting a sportier and even more progressive image than its predecessor, the all-new Avante will continue the successful tradition with leading technology and powertrain that deliver class-leading performance and fuel efficiency.

Having its roots in Hyundai’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design philosophy that tries to reflect sophistication and dynamic lines into the shape of vehicles, Hyundai also applied a new design aesthetic called ‘Wind Craft.’ The `Wind Craft’ has its design motives in the “wind” that consists of the flowing movement of air and the artistic sculpture, “craft.” Just like Hyundai’s latest models the Tucson ix and all-new Sonata, the Avante’s outer design is highlighted by bold, dynamic graphic elements like the hexagonal front grille and the dramatically swept back headlamps. Alloy wheels (15-, 16- or 17-inch) complete the assertive stance.

The new Avante will be powered by an all-new powerful and fuel efficient Gamma 1.6 Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine in Korea. With the help of GDI, this four-cylinder powermill delivers a peak output of 140ps at 6,300 RPM and maximum torque of 17.0kg?m. GDI technology doesnt only boost power output: It also improves fuel economy to achieve 16.5km/l while lowering emissions.

Hyundai’s commitment to making the Avante extremely fuel efficient continues with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 6-speed transmission mated to the 1.6 GDI engine delivers improved fuel efficiency and a performance edge to the customers.

The new Avante will delight and surprise with a raft of other advanced features not found on other compacts, including Smart Parking Assist System (SPAS) that assist the driver when parking between two cars parked in single file by automatically controlling only the steering wheel using ultrasonic sensors, HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlamps, LED combination lamps in the rear, heated rear seats, puddle lamps and a color TFT LCD information display nestled in the gauge cluster.

Furthermore, the new Avante strengthens its safety features. While VSM (Vehicle Stability Management), which helps vehicles stay in a stable position, is applied for the first time in its class, side & curtain airbags as well as active headrest are provided as basic features. High-tech safety features such as TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) are also available.

Source:http://worldwide.hyundai.com/company-overview/news-view.aspx?idx=285&&nCurPage=1&strSearchColumn=&strSearchWord=&ListNum=201

TORRANCE, Calif.- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today announced that Lexus intends to conduct a voluntary safety recall of approximately 39,000 2003-2007 Model Year LX 470 vehicles to address a steering shaft condition. No other Toyota or Lexus vehicles are involved in this safety recall.

This action follows an announcement made by Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan on July 29, 2010.

Lexus has determined that the construction of the steering shaft on involved LX 470s is such that the snap ring on the shaft may disengage when the vehicle experiences an unusually severe impact to the front wheels, such as striking a deep pothole. If the snap ring becomes disengaged and the steering wheel is then repeatedly turned to the full locked position, the steering shaft may disengage over time.

Lexus is not aware of any accidents related to this condition.

“At Lexus, we are committed to setting a new standard for quality customer care and aggressive attention to the safety of our drivers,” said Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager of Lexus. “Our engineers have thoroughly investigated this issue and have identified a robust and durable remedy that will help prevent this condition from affecting drivers in the future.”

The remedy for this condition involves replacing the snap ring with a newly designed one and the installation of an additional component to prevent separation of the steering shaft.

Lexus will begin sending out notification to owners of involved vehicles by first class mail beginning in mid-August 2010, advising them to bring their vehicles to their local Lexus dealer to have this remedy performed at no charge.

Source: http://pressroom.toyota.com/pr/tms/lexus/lexus-announces-intent-to-voluntarily-165037.aspx?ncid=12040

Mumbai, India: Toyota Kirloskar Motor conducted a unique Fortuner 4WD (four wheel drive) Boot Camp for the owners of India’s most successful SUV, the Toyota Fortuner. This exclusive off-roading experience was held at a specially designed course off the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and included an introduction to 4 X 4 driving basics, eco-friendly practices and fuel-saving techniques.

The customers attending the camp were able to learn and enjoy the pleasures of off-roading that only a capable 4 X 4 vehicle like the Fortuner can offer. Highly experienced instructors held both theoretical and practical sessions that comprised steep ascends, steep descends, stone crawling (along the river bed) and overcoming obstacles.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Sandeep Singh, Deputy Managing Director (Marketing, TKM) said, “The owners of the Fortuner are interested in off-roading adventures, but often do not have the opportunity or experience to take up such an activity. The objective behind setting up such a camp is to provide our customers a unique opportunity to fully experience the off-roading capabilities of the Fortuner in a safe and exciting environment. We will eventually conduct similar boot camps all over India and will include other Toyota SUVs such as the Prado and the Land Cruiser.”

The Fortuner was launched in India in August last year and has close to 9,000 proud owners, still growing. True to its rugged and sturdy image, the Fortuner can conquer the most adventurous terrain. It is a leader in its segment, with a market share of 59%. Its key off-roading capabilities include:

Full-time 4 wheel drive
A 3L D4D engine
Intercooler Turbocharger
5-speed manual transmission

Source: http://www.toyotabharat.com/inen/news/fortuner_camp.asp

DETROIT – The resale value for the Cadillac CTS is projected to rise as the luxury brand adds the 2011 CTS Coupe to the line-up, according to the July/August estimates from ALG, an industry benchmark for residual values.

The higher projections are driven by lower incentives, tighter controls on inventory and an emphasis on design, as showcased in the all-new CTS Coupe.

The resale value for the 2011 CTS Sport Sedan after 36 months is projected to be 55 percent of the initial purchase price, about 9 percentage points higher than the projected resale value for the 2010 model, according to ALG. The projected resale value for the 2011 CTS Sport Wagon, compared to the 2010 model, also has risen about 9 percentage points to 54 percent of the initial purchase price.

The CTS Coupe, which began arriving at U.S. dealerships in July, has a projected resale value of 59 percent of its initial price. The CTS Coupe has been praised in early reviews for its dramatic design, staying true to a model that was named best concept car in the Eyes on Design Awards for the 2008 North American International Auto Show.

“Competitive products, innovative styling and a value driven pricing strategy are contributing to a resurgence of the Cadillac brand,” said Matt Traylen, ALG chief economist and client partner. “The introduction of the Coupe broadens the potential CTS customer base and elevates the Cadillac brand as a whole with emotional appeal, dynamic performance and enthusiast credibility.”

The projected resale values are the result of Cadillac’s long-term commitment to building the brand, said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac marketing.

The SRX crossover, redesigned for the 2010 model year, has experienced a double-digit percentage increase in projected resale value in the past year.

“Cadillac continues to deliver products that stand out in the luxury market through bold design, exceptional performance and advanced technology,” Butler said. “The SRX has brought Cadillac style to the fast-growing crossover market. The CTS Coupe pushes design and performance even further on Cadillac’s award-winning CTS line.”

Source: http://publish.media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/news/news_detail.brand_gm.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2010/July/0728_cts

SAN JOSE, CA – Chevrolet dealers in launch markets will begin taking customer orders for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt, the industry’s first electric vehicle with extended-range capability.

Chevrolet is so confident in the overall value of the Volt that the brand will offer a lease program on the Volt with a monthly payment as low as $350 for 36 months at Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price with $2,500 due at lease signing, including security deposit based on current conditions, which could vary at time of delivery. The benefit of the $7,500 tax credit is included in the reduced lease payment, with the tax credit going to the lessor. The Volt’s MSRP will start at $41,000 ($33,500 net of the full federal tax credit, which ranges from $0-$7,500) including a destination freight charge of $720. Customer deliveries of the Chevrolet Volt are scheduled to begin in launch markets late this year with initial production limited.

“The Chevrolet Volt will be the best vehicle in its class…because it’s in a class by itself,” said Joel Ewanick, vice president of U.S. marketing for General Motors, who made the announcement at the Plug-In 2010 conference. “No other automaker offers an electrically driven vehicle that can be your everyday driver, to take you wherever, whenever. The Volt will be packed with premium content and innovation, standard.”

The Volt will be initially available to Chevrolet customers in California, New York, Michigan, Connecticut, Texas, New Jersey and the Washington D.C. area. To be among the first to purchase a Volt, customers can visit their nearest participating Chevrolet Volt dealer. The dealer will begin the order process, which will be followed up by contact from a dedicated Volt advisor who will be available to answer any questions and keep the customer apprised of the progress of their order. For customers needing general Volt information,

The Chevrolet Volt is the only electric vehicle that can operate under a range of weather climates and driving conditions with little concern of being stranded by a depleted battery. Volt has a total driving range of about 340 miles and is powered by electricity at all times. For up to the first 40 miles, the Volt drives gas- and tailpipe-emissions-free using electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas powered range-extending engine/generator seamlessly operates to extend the driving range another 300 miles on a full tank.

Depending on their tax situation, Volt owners can qualify for up to $7,500 in U.S. Federal income tax credit, as well as other potential state and local tax credits, depending on location. Owners in certain states may qualify for the added convenience of High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane access.

While the Chevrolet Volt will come standard with a 120-volt charge cord that will provide owners with the ability to charge their Volt directly from a standard home electrical outlet, a total of 4,400 Volt buyers in launch markets could be eligible for a free 240-volt charging station, including home installation. The installations are part of a program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to install approximately 15,000 240-volt home charging stations across the U.S.

Technologies Keep Volt Customers Connected

When it comes to advanced technology, Volt customers are on the leading edge. The 2011 Chevrolet Volt has standard technology features that link and entertain in innovative ways, starting with standard seven-inch touch screen navigation and an energy-efficient Bose premium audio system.

The Volt is the first GM vehicle to offer five years of OnStar Directions and Connections service, which includes Automatic Crash Response, stolen vehicle assistance and connected navigation, all standard. Volt will expand on OnStar’s foundation of leading-edge safety and security technology through the introduction of an OnStar-enabled mobile app that connects the vehicle to the owner’s smartphone.

“We wanted to make the Volt ownership experience unlike anything we’ve done at Chevrolet, because the Volt is unlike any vehicle we’ve offered,” said Tony DiSalle, director of Chevrolet Volt product marketing. “We want customers to fully enjoy the Volt lifestyle by providing unprecedented connectivity to their vehicle through the Volt mobile app.”

Unprecedented Warranties Bring Value and Peace of Mind

Volt owners will be provided outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranties. The Volt’s 16-kWh lithium-ion battery is covered by an industry-leading transferable warranty of eight years or 100,000 miles. In addition, Chevrolet will provide:

3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
5-year / 100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
5-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
6-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage
The Volt also has an array of standard safety features, including eight air bags — dual-stage frontal, side-impact, knee, and roof-rail side-impact—and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with Traction Control. The Volt is constructed of 80 percent high-strength steel for additional safety and protection.

Chevrolet will also provide customer assistance via a Volt advisor available 24/7 by phone or Internet. Dealers will also provide on-site dedicated Volt service and sales experts who will be able to address inquiries.

Source:http://publish.media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/news/news_detail.brand_gm.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2010/July/0727_GM_voltpricing

Toyota City, Japan —Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announces its production, domestic sales and export results, including those for subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. and Hino Motors, Ltd., for June 2010.

June 2010 Highlights (year-on-year)
PRODUCTION IN JAPAN
Toyota - Increase
Daihatsu - Increase
Hino - Increase
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino - Increase

SALES IN JAPAN
Toyota
Eleventh consecutive month of increase
Lexus-vehicle sales totaled 2,151 units (16.3% increase)
48.5% share of market excluding minivehicles (2.3% increase); thirteenth consecutive month of increase and record high for month of June

Daihatsu
Fifth consecutive month of increase
Minivehicle sales totaled approximately 54,900 units (10.2% increase); sixth consecutive month of increase
35.4% share of minivehicle market (0.5% decrease)

Hino
Fifth consecutive month of increase
Standard-truck sales totaled approximately 1,800 (83.1% increase); fourth consecutive month of increase
32.6% share of the truck* market (0.6% decrease)

Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
Eleventh consecutive month of increase
44.7% share of market including minivehicles (1.6% increase); thirteenth consecutive month of increase and record high for month of June

*Maximum loading capacity of four tons or more; excluding imported trucks

EXPORTS

Toyota
Sixth consecutive month of increase, due to increased exports to North America, Latin America, Asia, the Middle East and Africa

Daihatsu
Decrease, due to decreased exports to Asia, Europe and other regions

Hino
Eighth consecutive month of increase, due to increased exports to almost all regions
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
Sixth consecutive month of increase

OVERSEAS PRODUCTION

Toyota
Eleventh consecutive month of increase, due to increased production in almost all regions other than Europe

Daihatsu
Eighth consecutive month of increase, due to increased production in Indonesia and other regions

Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
Eleventh consecutive month of increase

Source: http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/10/07/0727.html

Australia - Toyota’s popular all-wheel-drive RAV4 wagon just became even better value with the special-edition RAV4 Altitude.

For a limited time, RAV4 Altitude has more than $1700 value but for only $500 more compared with the CV model on which it is based.*

But you’ll have to be quick, with only 800 examples of this special edition to be built in Japan.

Altitude’s range of extra features starts on the outside with five 17-inch alloy wheels (in place of steel wheels) and roof rails as well as rear, rear quarter and rear-door privacy glass.

It also has sonar reverse parking sensors and an “Altitude” exterior badge.

RAV4 Altitude’s additional interior equipment includes a 6-CD LCD display-type audio unit with USB connectivity and Bluetooth™~ telephone and audio streaming^ functionality.

The package includes a premium steering wheel and premium gear-shift knob and comes with the choice of manual or automatic transmission.

Source: http://news.toyota.com.au/rav4-gains-altitude

Australia - Toyota’s eye-catching Rukus is attracting younger buyers to the brand - especially those in their 20s, 30s and 40s.

Dealers have reported that around 55 per cent of Rukus customers are in these age groups.

The trend to younger buyers is significant for an established brand like Toyota where customers in these age groups normally account for fewer than 50 per cent of sales.

Another significant fact is that a majority of people buying Rukus are new to the Toyota brand, trading-in a competitor’s car.

Toyota believes that many of these people may never have previously considered a Toyota.

Breaking down the sales stats, more than 40 per cent of Rukus customers are from Generation X and are now in their 30s and 40s.

In addition, there is healthy demand from motorists in their 20s.

Dealer feedback indicates Rukus is popular for its in-your-face styling, compact exterior, roomy interior and plenty of punch from its engine.

Features that appeal to all age-groups include its wide door openings for easy entry and exit, tall driving position with large windscreen, easy-to-read dials, lots of headroom, capped-price servicing* and Toyota reliability.

Rukus is achieving its target of at least 150 sales a month.

Source: http://news.toyota.com.au/rukus-brings-younger-buyers-to-toyota

Malaysia - In its efforts to further strengthen its SUV line-up, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, the exclusive distributor of Mitsubishi Motors passenger cars in Malaysia officially introduced the upgraded version of Pajero Sport GS to the market recently.

Upgraded Pajero Sport GS with roof rail

Priced competitively at RM 161,531.80 (on the road without insurance), the new upgraded Pajero Sport GS is set to attract urban motorists who want a stylish 7-seater SUV with space, versatility, and 4WD off-road capability. Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia expects to sell more than 2,000 units of Pajero Sport SUV by end of this year.

The upgraded Pajero Sport GS comes with new standard features such as auto climate control, cruise control, rear spoiler and roof rail. Besides that, its new 2-DIN LCD wide touch screen entertainment system with built-in reverse camera feature allows easier and safer parking.

The Pajero Sport GS comes with a choice of four colours (Eisen Gray Mica, Dark Blue Mica, Platinum Beige Metallic and White Pearl.

“The Pajero Sport has been a success since its debut in Malaysia last June. And to date, it has found more than 1,000 proud owners. We expect this upgraded GS variant to further widen the appeal of the Pajero Sport. The riding comfort of the seven-seat cabin is one of its biggest strengths, being both versatile and spacious enough to carry long cargo and passengers. With an impressive set of new features, Pajero Sport GS is one of the best in its class,” said Mr Tetsuya Oda, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia.

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport GS
Producing 136 PS of maximum output and 314 Nm of torque from a low 2,000 rpm, the proven and reliable DOHC 16-valve engine provides strong performance with efficient fuel consumption. The common rail direct injection system delivers maximum output with better efficiency and emissions.

The capable engine is paired with Mitsubishi’s INVECS-II 4-speed automatic transmission. INVECS-II shift control analyzes the driving pattern and conditions and adapts to it by creating a profile that matches the driver’s characteristics. There is also a Sport Mode that offers the control of a manual transmission.

Pajero Sport ladder frame is supported with double-wishbone suspension up front and three-link suspension with coil springs at the rear plus stabilizer bars on both ends, a combination that provides both robustness and a high-level of comfort.

A power assisted rack-and-pinion steering provides better feel, precision and a minimum turning radius of only 5.6 metres in its class.

The strong but lighter frame is designed with impact-absorbing collapsible beads that help to cushion the cabin from collision impacts. These work in conjunction with the Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body, collapsible steering column, anti-intrusion brake pedal, side door impact bars and ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, dual SRS airbags, ABS and EBD for top level passive safety.

Pajero Sport owners will enjoy a 2-year or 40,000km free maintenance program.

Source: http://www.mitsubishi-motors.com.my/news.php?id=95

INGOLSTADT, Germany - AUDI AG achieved clearly positive results in 2009, a year of worldwide crisis, and now its employees are benefiting: the company is thanking them for their efforts with a total bonus payment of 97 million euros – more than any of its competitors have paid. At the end of this month the workforce will receive its third additional payment this year.

Despite the financial and economic crisis in 2009, Audi’s balance sheet stayed in the black month after month – meaning that the company fared considerably better than its competitors. Now Audi is sharing its success with the workforce: at the end of the month they will be paid a bonus averaging 1,355 euros, the third such extra payment this year. Dr. Werner Widuckel, Member of the Board of Management for Human Resources at AUDI AG, comments: “When the business situation is difficult we’re dependent on maximum effort from all our employees. So it’s only logical for us to share our success with them.” As a result of this policy, each employee receives an average of 3,500 euros.

In June the Board of Management and the General Works Council had already agreed a bonus of 1,200 euros. In the words of Peter Mosch, Chairman of the General Works Council of AUDI AG: “We bucked the trend and were successful. Recognizing this exceptional performance promotes solidarity in the long term and encourages the company’s employees to master upcoming tasks with equal success.”

In May this year the company also made an “expanded employee participation” (eMeb) for the fifth time. This payment is laid down in the company agreement known as “Audi’s Future – Performance, Success, Participation” and linked to the operating profit.

Source: http://www.audiusanews.com/newsrelease.do?id=1884