F-150 Buyers Choosing Fuel-Efficient EcoBoost V-6
November sales figures are expected to show a seventh consecutive month in which four out of ten Ford F-150 buyers are choosing the EcoBoost V-6 engine over the V-8. The fuel-efficient V-6 EcoBoost is capable of 22 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city. The latest 2011 U.S. Global Quality Research System data shows the quality of trucks with a V-6 equals rates with a V-8.
Things are Changing as Online Auctions Take Over
Dealers are moving in large numbers to internet auction sales that would have seemed highly unlikely in recent years. It's causing captive finance companies to put more extensive safeguards in place for vehicle condition and sellers to provide detailed content on the state of each vehicle up for sale.
New Technology Alerts Drowsy Drivers
A recent study by AAA Foundation found more than two in five drivers admit they've fallen asleep when driving. New technology will alert drowsy drivers and help avoid an accident. Lincoln's new Lane Keeping System, available on the 2013 MKS, will initially sound an alert if the vehicle drifts out of its lane and, if necessary, then add a bit of torque to the steering wheel to gently nudge it back into its lane.
Green Car of Year Award Goes to 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas
Beating a diverse field of finalists, the 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas was named the Green Car of the Year at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing for American Honda Motor Co., said, "This, to Honda, is everything." The Chevrolet Volt extended-range hybrid was last year's winner. Honda is targeting 2,000 Civic Natural Gas sales a year initially, but expects that to double.
Used Vehicle Sales Softened in First Half of November
According to CNW Research's Art Spinella, used vehicles sales were down in the first half of November. They should be slightly higher than a year ago, but it was surprising coming off the best October the used-vehicle industry has seen in four years.
