Ford's all new Fusion and Milan in standard and hybrid versions received top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. They join the Escape and Mariner which also received "Top Safety Pick" in also getting the best fuel economy in their respective segments. Ford is the only automaker to capture top spots in two segments.
A new test from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety say the Kia Sportage, and its sibling the Hyundai Tucson, received poor ratings in a roof-strength test. Only four of the dozen small SUVs evaluated in a new test to see how well their roofs held up in a rollover crash got "good" ratings, and some of the country's most popular models did not fare well.
Used-car values are rising quickly as buyers flock to replace used with used. This is an important factor for valuing off-lease vehicles headed for auction and may rejuvenate auto leasing which took a hit last year. It should open up prospects for auto lenders as well.
Joining the WomenCertified program to eliminate undue stress for women when buying a vehicle, AutoNation Direct sets up "Car Buying Her Way" program to guide buyers through the shopping process, either via phone or Internet, with the help of a personal shopper.
Some dealers are failing today for reasons that go far beyond the economy, and the failures have far more to do with internal management than with anything external. The single biggest problem for most dealers is on the financial side. Dealers need to be certain that they have the best controllers and office managers possible, because these positions are as important to a dealership's success as having a good general sales manager.