According to the editors from Cars.com, “To be a hard worker, you have . . . → Read More: 2012 Ford F-150: Cars.com Work Truck of the Year . . . → Read More: 2012 Ford F-150: Cars.com Work Truck of the Year]]>

ATHENS, OH–1/31/12–It may come as no surprise, but Cars.com has, again, named the Ford F-150 full-size pickup truck the Work Truck of the Year. Top cars for Commuters, Hard Workers and The Boss categories competed for this Lifestyle Awards title.

According to the editors from Cars.com, “To be a hard worker, you have to be able to do a lot of different types of work. And probably no other vehicle reflects that spirit better than the Ford F-150. Like a multifunctional tool, the F-150 can be configured in an almost infinite number of ways to meet the needs of commercial, personal or family jobs.

“The F-150 comes in a staggering array of cab and bed sizes, with many engine and driveline choices, and in trim levels starting with a bare-bones work truck and climbing to a level of richness that rivals luxury sedans. If you need your work truck to do double duty, the F-150 has you covered,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Ford, Athens, Ohio.

The F-150 tops its class with best-in-class 17 city/23 hwy/19 combined mpg.* And since the auto market is constantly evolving, the truck has remained fresh with the powerful, capable and efficient EcoBoost turbocharged engine.** “EcoBoost has the power to do real work and to accelerate with immediacy,” say the Cars.com editors. “As the best-selling model in the U.S. for decades, the F-Series truly puts America to work.”

*Class is Full-Size Pickups under 8,500 lbs. GVWR, Non-Hybrid. 3.7L V6 4×2.**Optional.

LOGAN, OH — 1/31/12 – “Chevy Happy Grad,” an ad submitted by 26-year old Long Island resident Zach Borst, will be aired during the telecast . . . → Read More: ‘Chevy Happy Grad’ Wins Route 66 Super Bowl Ad Contest . . . → Read More: ‘Chevy Happy Grad’ Wins Route 66 Super Bowl Ad Contest]]>

Get an Early Look at the New Chevy Camero Super Bowl Ad!

• New York independent filmmaker created winning Camaro ad
• Advertisement to air during Super Bowl XLVI

LOGAN, OH — 1/31/12 – “Chevy Happy Grad,” an ad submitted by 26-year old Long Island resident Zach Borst, will be aired during the telecast of Super Bowl XLVI, beating out submissions by independent filmmakers from around the world as part of Chevrolet’s Route 66 Super Bowl ad contest. Follow the link below for a sneak peek from your friends at Don Wood Chevrolet, Logan, Ohio.

The ads had more than 32 million total online views between December 22 and January 14.

“We asked filmmakers to depict life’s journey and how Chevrolet is there along the way,” said General Motors Global Chief Marketing Officer Joel Ewanick. “When I saw Zach’s spot, I had to laugh, because the situation is something many families can related to – expectation and reality. ‘Happy Grad’ clearly shows the passion that Chevrolet elicits.”

Borst’s audience on Super Bowl Sunday is expected to exceed 110 million television viewers. “Chevy Happy Grad” was filmed on location near his home on Long Island during a weather window that offered Zach, his cast and crew only four hours to complete the project.

“My Dad was a cop and worked real hard to be able to buy his kids their first cars. They were used, but mine meant the world to me,” Borst said. “Then I wondered what it would look like if I got a brand new Camaro? I mean, after all, who wouldn’t want a Camaro as a graduation gift?”

Borst, an aspiring filmmaker, has been producing films since his childhood and founded his own production company, Goat Farm Films, based in New York.

During Chevrolet’s Route 66 Super Bowl ad contest, filmmakers from 32 countries submitted 400 scripts and 198 films for consideration. “Chevy Happy Grad” and other ads from the contest can be viewed at Chevrolet’s You Tube channel.

ATHENS, OH–1/31/12-– Don Wood Toyota, Athens, Ohio,  announced the premiere of the extended version of the Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Super Bowl XLVI commercial. The spot takes . . . → Read More: Toyota Reinvents More Than the Camry in Extended Version of Super Bowl XLVI Commercial . . . → Read More: Toyota Reinvents More Than the Camry in Extended Version of Super Bowl XLVI Commercial]]>

Preview New Super Bowl Ad for 2012 Toyota Camry

‘Reinvented’ Imagines a Fantastic and Funny World Where Everything is as Innovative as the 2012 Camry

ATHENS, OH–1/31/12-– Don Wood Toyota, Athens, Ohio,  announced the premiere of the extended version of the Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. Super Bowl XLVI commercial. The spot takes a cue from the marketing campaign promoting the striking reinvention of the 2012 Camry, America’s best-selling car for 10 consecutive years. The 60-second “Reinvented” spot is available for preview at Toyota’s YouTube page, while the television premiere of the 30-second version on Sunday, February 5th, will mark the brand’s return to Super Bowl advertising for the first time in three years.

The ad provides a humorous take on potential day-to-day experiences and items that could have been reinvented, such as a baby that never requires a diaper change, the Department of Motor Vehicles as an enjoyable place of fun and smiles, and house plants that defend against intruders by fighting crime. The premise of the spot is that good things are always better when reinvented; and in this case, they are also funnier.

“Reinvention is a powerful idea and one we took to heart when we redesigned America’s most popular car with the launch of the 2012 Camry and elevated it above the competition,” said Bill Fay, group vice president of marketing at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “The Super Bowl provides a forum to really drive home the reinvention message of the seventh-generation Camry, using humor to resonate with the American public.”

The commercial will be one of two 30-second spots Toyota will be airing during the internationally-viewed game. The ad, created by Toyota’s agency of record Saatchi & Saatchi LA, is slated to be broadcast during the third quarter of the game and is supported by an interactive social media extension that will kick-off following the commercial. Viewers will be encouraged to tweet with the #Reinvented hashtag about what they’d like to see reinvented and selected tweets will be responded to in real-time with a creative depiction of their idea.

ATHENS, OH–1/31/12–Some watch the Super Bowl for the game, but everyone likes to talk about the ads. Follow the links to the new Hyundai ads for this year. Your friends at Don Wood Hyundai, Athens, Ohio, want to share a special . . . → Read More: Take a Sneak Peek: Hyundai Super Bowl Ads . . . → Read More: Take a Sneak Peek: Hyundai Super Bowl Ads]]>

Sneak an Early Look and This Year's Super Bowl Ads from Hyundai.

ATHENS, OH–1/31/12–Some watch the Super Bowl for the game, but everyone likes to talk about the ads. Follow the links to the new Hyundai ads for this year. Your friends at Don Wood Hyundai, Athens, Ohio, want to share a special sneak peek with you.

Two Hyundai ads will run in the pregame show, one before kickoff, one during the first quarter and one during fourth quarter. You and your friends can debate which one you like best. Enjoy!

All for One: http://www.youtube.com/hyundaiUSA?x=us_game_6727

Cheetah: http://www.youtube.com/hyundaiUSA?x=us_game_6728

Think Fast: http://www.youtube.com/hyundaiUSA?x=us_game_6729

Victory Lap: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HW1V7vRA8c

Visit  www.YouTube.com/Hyundai for additional content, including behind-the-scenes footage.

ATHENS, OHIO., Dec. 27, 2011– The all-new 2012 Hyundai Veloster earned a GOOD DESIGN™ Award in the Transportation category for its innovative and unique three-door design. The GOOD DESIGN Awards are presented annually by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with The European Centre for Architecture Art . . . → Read More: HYUNDAI VELOSTER WINS 2011 GOOD DESIGN AWARD . . . → Read More: HYUNDAI VELOSTER WINS 2011 GOOD DESIGN AWARD]]>

ATHENS, OHIO., Dec. 27, 2011– The all-new 2012 Hyundai Veloster earned a GOOD DESIGN™ Award in the Transportation category for its innovative and unique three-door design. The GOOD DESIGN Awards are presented annually by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design together with The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. Founded in Chicago in 1950, GOOD DESIGN bestows international recognition upon the world’s most prominent designers and manufacturers for advancing new, visionary, and innovative product concepts, invention and originality, and for stretching the envelope beyond what is considered ordinary product and consumer design.

Hyundai’s Veloster continues to grab consumer attention and media headlines from experts both inside and outside the automotive industry. For 2011, The GOOD DESIGN Awards were judged at the American Institute of Architects in Los Angeles by an international jury of design professionals, architects, experts, and cultural leaders.

“With Veloster, we want to show consumers that high style, fuel efficiency and affordable pricing can all be found in one vehicle,” said Scott Margason, director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Veloster stands out from the crowd with a stylish yet functional design. We’re honored that GOOD DESIGN is recognizing the beautiful design and unique personality of the car.”

Veloster’s cutting edge integration of the third-door combined with a breakthrough design inspired by a high-performance sport bike allows Veloster to stand-out from its competition and makes a bold statement about Hyundai’s commitment to innovative design. Distinctive black A-pillars give the glass a motorcycle helmet visor appearance and in the front is an aggressive form of Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front grille and unique Hyundai-signature LED position lights. Veloster’s dynamic rear design has a distinctive glass hatch, dual centered chrome exhaust tips and black lower fascia that complement the assertive front fascia. Inside, the center stack and controls resemble a sport bike fuel tank and the air vents are inspired by motorcycle tailpipes, while the floor console mirrors the seat of a bike.

“The new Hyundai Veloster is an eye-catching look that separates it from the rest of the pack,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Hyundai, Athens, Ohio.

All winning designs for GOOD DESIGN 2011 can be viewed at the Museum’s website: www.chi-athenaeum.org. All products and graphics will be exhibited at The Chicago Athenaeum in the GOOD DESIGN Show for 2011 in Chicago in June, 2012.

12-27-2011-LOGAN, OH – A hotter Chevrolet Sonic is about to sound off – the 2013 Sonic RS. It goes on sale in late 2012, after making its public debut at the North American International Auto Show . . . → Read More: Turbocharged 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS Pushes Performance . . . → Read More: Turbocharged 2013 Chevrolet Sonic RS Pushes Performance]]>

Turbocharged Performance: New Chevy Sonic RS

Unique exterior and interior styling, sport-tuned suspension and standard MyLink

12-27-2011-LOGAN, OH – A hotter Chevrolet Sonic is about to sound off – the 2013 Sonic RS. It goes on sale in late 2012, after making its public debut at the North American International Auto Show Jan. 14-22.

The new RS amplifies the Sonic’s youthful style and driving experience with unique exterior and interior features matched with a 138-horsepower (103 kW) Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine. Sonic is the only vehicle in its segment to offer a turbocharged powertrain.

“The new Chevrolet Sonic RS pushes Chevrolet’s performance heritage in a new direction, for a new generation of drivers,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Global Chevrolet Marketing. “It takes the Sonic’s great design and latest connectivity features and combines them with a more performance-oriented look and feel.”

The Sonic RS is offered exclusively in the five-door body style. Chevrolet’s exclusive MyLink infotainment system is standard. It enables navigation directions downloaded through a smart phone to be shown on the radio’s large display, and offers the personalized connectivity of Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio.

Sonic RS exterior features

• New front fascia with new fog lamp design
• New RS-specific grille
• New rear fascia
• New rear spoiler
• New rocker moldings
• Unique mirror cap finish
• Retuned sport exhaust with chrome outlet
• Unique 17-inch five-spoke wheel design
• Lowered and stiffened suspension with performance-tuned dampers
• RS badging.

The more-aggressive look of the Sonic RS is inspired by the concept that debuted in Detroit in 2010. The Sonic RS will be available in Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and  Black Granite Metallic, which is a new exterior color for the 2013 Sonic.

“The Sonic RS remains true to the progressive spirit of the concept and brings an unmistakable attitude to the segment,” said John Mack, design director for the Sonic. “From every angle and every touch point, it is a car that is unabashed in its performance statement – and one that drives Chevrolet’s performance legacy into its second century.”

One of the most-dramatic cues from the concept carried into the production model is the Sonic RS’s front fascia, which has a deep air dam design that enhances the car’s road-hugging stance. Vertical intakes at the edges of the fascia reinforce the wide, low proportion and house the fog lamps.

Sonic RS interior features

• New front sport seats
• New sport steering wheel with thicker rim and racing-inspired flat-bottom design
• New shifter knob (manual transmission)
• New aluminum sport pedals
• Specific instrument panel cluster graphics
• RS-specific interior trim color for the instrument panel and door trim inserts.

“Like the exterior, the Sonic RS’s interior looks and feels the part of a true performance car,” said Mack. “The seats are firm and provide great lateral support during quick cornering and the feel of the thick, flat-bottom steering wheel is a feature driving enthusiasts will truly appreciate.”

The Sonic RS’s interior is a connected environment, with the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment seven-inch color touch screen radio. This system allows customers to bring customized music libraries into the vehicle and use their smart phones and Bluetooth connectivity to access Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio and navigation. Navigation directions downloaded through a smart phone can be displayed on the screen and, when the vehicle is stopped, users can project video and even personal photo albums onto the screen from their phone.

Sonic RS performance

“The Sonic RS gives drivers performance and great mileage in the same package,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Chevrolet, Logan, Ohio.

The Sonic RS is powered by a standard Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine that is rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) – and provides an immediate feeling of power that is sustained across the rpm band, for a greater feeling of performance at lower rpm. It’s matched with a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic.

Unique gear ratios for the six-speed manual transmission and unique final drive ratio for the automatic give the Sonic RS a sportier feel than non-RS models.

Complementing the segment-exclusive turbocharged powertrain is MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bar, and a semi-independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound link-type rear suspension – featuring a robust, tubular V-shape beam – with gas-charged shocks. The front and rear tracks are identical at 59.4 inches (1,509 mm), for well-planted stability and balance.

The new RS is the only Sonic model offered with four-wheel disc brakes, which are partnered with a four-channel anti-lock braking system. The four-sensor system – one at each wheel – incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on such factors as road conditions and the weight of passengers and/or cargo.

Electric power steering is standard and features a wear compensator that continually adjusts the system interaction with the steering gear to ensure precise steering action over the life of the system.

Sonic lineup at a glance

The Chevrolet Sonic is offered in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door, with a starting price of $14,495 (including destination charge). Each body style delivers class-leading, rear-seat roominess and cargo space. Vehicle highlights include:

• Standard Ecotec 1.8L engine (non-RS models) paired with five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions
• Standard electric power steering and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing
• Sedan offers trunk capacity that is greater than most compact cars; hatchback and sedan offer better rear-seat roominess than Ford Fiesta. With a rear seat that folds nearly flat, the Sonic hatchback has greater cargo capacity than Fiesta
• Connectivity includes OnStar with six months of Turn-by-Turn navigation. Available features include XM Satellite Radio, USB and Bluetooth functionality and MyChevrolet mobile application
• Remote start, heated front seats and sunroof – all rarities in the segment
• Ten standard air bags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash Response.

Sonic is built at the General Motors’ Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, which received a $545-million investment in upgrades and retooling and helped restore approximately 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan Detroit area.

ATHENS, OH-12/23/11–Winning an impressive award? All in a day’s work.

Toughness and rugged durability now merge with prestige and accolades. The Ford F-150 is the proud recipient of the 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year®.

When it comes to capability, power and performance, Motor Trend must have realized the competition didn’t . . . → Read More: Ford F-150 Named 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year® . . . → Read More: Ford F-150 Named 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year®]]>  

ATHENS, OH-12/23/11–Winning an impressive award? All in a day’s work.

Toughness and rugged durability now merge with prestige and accolades. The Ford F-150 is the proud recipient of the 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year®.

When it comes to capability, power and performance, Motor Trend must have realized the competition didn’t stand a chance. The F-150 offers best-in-class trailer-towing capacity (11,300 lbs.)¹ It can haul more than any other truck in its class—up to 3,120 lbs¹.

But there’s more to the story than just sheer power. F-150 also has its focus on what’s important to everyone these days: fuel efficiency. The F-150 3.7L TI-VCT V6 delivers not only best-in-class standard V6 power, but also class-leading² fuel economy with an EPA-estimated 17 city/23 highway/19 combined mpg (4×2).

Motor Trend also found the available EcoBoost® engine that’s designed with advanced technology and twin turbocharging to be beyond impressive. EcoBoost delivers a combination of efficiency and capability that’s unequaled in its class.³ What’s the experience like behind the wheel? Instantaneous low-end torque responsiveness with virtually no turbo lag.

The work may be tough, but inside F-150 it’s comfortable, quiet and user-friendly. The F-150 SuperCrew even boasts a fully flat load floor—the most usable cab space in its class⁴. And proving that you don’t have to work hard to be productive, F-150 offers an available class-exclusive² driver configurable LCD productivity screen. Want to know your fuel economy, towing or off-road information? It’s all at your fingertips. And to keep you connected with life on the road, F-150 features available Ford SYNC® and the available Navigation System. It all adds up to a full-size pickup that delivers power, efficiency and intelligence—just a few vital factors that must have influenced the truck lovers at Motor Trend.

“The Ford F-150’s considerable strengths stood out in sharp relief against the competition. By offering high tech features like SYNC and EcoBoost, Ford has clearly taken a leadership position in the market and demonstrated a commitment to making the F-150 not just the best selling truck in America, but perhaps the most versatile. From a fuel sipping EcoBoost to a desert racing Raptor, the F-150 covers all of the bases,” said Edward Loh, Editor-in-Chief of Motor Trend.

“The Motor Trend Truck of the Year award is more proof of how great a truck the Ford F-150 is,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Ford/Lincoln, Athens, Ohio.

To read the entire article, visit Motor Trend . To find out more about the F-150, visit ford.com/trucks/f150.

December 23, 2011, Athens, OH — The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently announced that 15 Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles earned Top Safety Pick awards for the 2012 model year, more than any other automaker.

Commenting on today’s announcement, Steve St. . . . → Read More: Fifteen Toyota, Lexus and Scion Vehicles Earn Top Safety Pick Awards . . . → Read More: Fifteen Toyota, Lexus and Scion Vehicles Earn Top Safety Pick Awards]]>

Earns Major Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

December 23, 2011, Athens, OH — The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently announced that 15 Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles earned Top Safety Pick awards for the 2012 model year, more than any other automaker.

Commenting on today’s announcement, Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., said, “Safety is a core value that dates back to the foundation of our company. IIHS’ awards further recognize our commitment to helping protect drivers and passengers.”

The 2012 model year winners are: Toyota Avalon, Camry, Corolla, Highlander, Prius, Prius v, Sienna, Tundra Crew Cab, Venza, and Yaris; Lexus CT 200h and RX, and Scion tC, xB, and xD.

According to the IIHS, Top Safety Pick awards recognize vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, rollover, and rear crashes based on ratings in IIHS tests.

“These major awards for safety are even better when combined with their reputation for quality and great gas mileage,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Toyota/Scion, Athens, Ohio.

LOGAN, OH – 11-29-11 – Herb Younger thought his cherished 1965 Impala SS was out of his life forever when he sold it in the 1980s to pay for his children’s education. Now . . . → Read More: Sons Reunite Father with His ’65 Impala After Two Decades . . . → Read More: Sons Reunite Father with His ’65 Impala After Two Decades]]>

It's Family, too: Sons Return 1965 Chevy Impala SS to Dad

Chevrolet commercial and Internet video documents emotional homecoming

LOGAN, OH – 11-29-11 – Herb Younger thought his cherished 1965 Impala SS was out of his life forever when he sold it in the 1980s to pay for his children’s education. Now his car is back with him, an emotional reunion captured on video for all to see.

Chevrolet, keeping with its theme of showcasing authentic moments, created a 60-second TV spot and long-form online version of the real-life homecoming.

Younger bought his Impala new in 1964 and amassed nearly a quarter century of family memories before selling it.

Two decades later, his sons decided to reunite their father with his Impala.  After five years of tracking Vehicle Identification Number leads through several states, they finally located their dad’s Impala in Canada and purchased it over the telephone. The car was still in pristine condition.

“It’s not just a car. It’s all the memories and feelings,” said Jared Younger. “It brings all that back.”

To capture the moment when Younger was reunited with his car, Chevrolet and Goodby, Silverstein & Partners conspired with Jared and his brother, Derek, and posed as a film crew documenting three generations of an American family. Little did Herb know, his Impala would come rumbling into view at a park where he was playing with his grandchildren. His recognition was instant. This was not a car like his. This was HIS car.

“Your first driver’s license, first car and first new car are special times. This special Chevy has been a part of the family for nearly 50 years,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Chevrolet, Athens, Ohio.

The commercial can be viewed here, and an extended version here.

“The moment when he realizes his car has come back to him is priceless, and is a prime example of the emotional connection many people have with their Chevys,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Chevrolet Marketing and Strategy. “The story is moving because it’s true – and there’s no better way to prove that Chevy runs deep.”

“‘My Dad’s Car’ tells a story that is common among Chevy owners, who tend to confess to carrying a lifetime love of the brand,” said Jamie Barrett, executive creative director at Goodby, Silverstein & Partners. “In the case of the Younger family, we got lucky and were able to capture the emotional reunion between Herb Younger and his lost-but-never-forgotten 1965 Impala SS.”

ATHENS, OH – November 29, 2011–Rumors have been flying for years, and “spy” photos fueled repeated efforts to clear the cloudy crystal ball blocking the view of a major addition joining the Scion lineup. Now it’s official.

Toyota unveiled the new 2013 Scion FR-S at the Tokyo Auto Show . . . → Read More: 2013 Scion FR-S Unveiled at Tokyo Auto Show . . . → Read More: 2013 Scion FR-S Unveiled at Tokyo Auto Show]]>

IT'S HOT!!!--2013 Scion FR-S

ATHENS, OH – November 29, 2011–Rumors have been flying for years, and “spy” photos fueled repeated efforts to clear the cloudy crystal ball blocking the view of a major addition joining the Scion lineup. Now it’s official.

Toyota unveiled the new 2013 Scion FR-S at the Tokyo Auto Show this week. Now you can see the real deal, or at least something very close to the sporty new Scion joining the brand in 2013. In a word: WOW!

“The FR-S is more than a sporty look. It’s designed to deliver outstanding performance and handling in a moderately priced package,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Toyota/Scion, Athens, Ohio.

ATHENS, OH, Nov. 29, 2011 – GreenCarReports.com has named the 2012 Toyota Prius family of vehicles as its “Best Green Car to Buy 2012.” Beginning with the 2012 model year, the Prius will expand to a family of four vehicles, including the third-generation Prius Liftback, . . . → Read More: Toyota Prius Family of Vehicles Receive GreenCarReports’ ’2012 Best Green Car to Buy’ Award . . . → Read More: Toyota Prius Family of Vehicles Receive GreenCarReports’ ’2012 Best Green Car to Buy’ Award]]>

AWARD: Toyota Prius is the One to Buy!

ATHENS, OH, Nov. 29, 2011 – GreenCarReports.com has named the 2012 Toyota Prius family of vehicles as its “Best Green Car to Buy 2012.” Beginning with the 2012 model year, the Prius will expand to a family of four vehicles, including the third-generation Prius Liftback, the Prius v, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, and the Prius c.

GreenCarReports editors choose the most significant new “green” car available to shoppers during the 2012 model year, taking into account new technologies, their practicality, and their impact on the environment. The GreenCarReports’ “Best Green Car to Buy” award recognizes mass-market, environmentally sensitive vehicles that are available below $60,000. Utilizing the TheCarConnection’s ratings as a starting point for their evaluation, the GreenCarReports editorial team applies their criteria to select the winner that will carry the “Best Green Car to Buy 2012” environmental message.

“The Prius is more than just one car this year,” said Green Car Reports Editor John Voelcker. “With a new Prius v and the Prius Plug-In Hybrid, it’s now a family of vehicles with some of the highest gas mileage on the market today, and the Prius name is likely to help encourage buyers to take the plunge into plug-in vehicles.”

The Prius vehicles that won the GreenCarReports’ “Best Green Car to Buy 2012” award were chosen from a competitive field of environmentally sensitive cars that also included the Fiat 500, Honda Civic Hybrid, Infiniti M35h, Mitsubishi i, and Volkswagen Passat TDi.

The Prius Liftback is in its third generation and earned an EPA-estimated 50 mpg combined (51 city mpg/ 48 highway mpg) rating. The Prius v, which went on sale in October, will be an unmatched combination of versatility and fuel efficiency in a midsize. With 58-percent more cargo space than the Liftback, the Prius v has more cargo space than 80-percent of the small SUVs on the road today, while still accomplishing an EPA-estimated 44-mpg city.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid, which offers seating for five, is expected to achieve a manufacturer-estimated 87 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined driving and 49 MPG in hybrid mode. With expected class-leading fuel economy better than 50 mpg in the city, which is the highest city mpg of any non-plug-in vehicle, the Prius c will be an entry into the Prius Family appealing to youthful shoppers seeking fuel efficiency, technology, and spirited driving dynamics in the subcompact segment. Both the Prius c and Prius Plug-in will go on sale in the spring of 2012.

“Prius is the unmatched leader in global hybrid vehicle sales and technology,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Toyota, Athens, Ohio.

The Prius vehicles rely on Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, which benefits from 14 years of global market development, and pairs a highly efficient gasoline internal combustion engine with two high-output motor/generators, a large rechargeable battery, and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission to help the vehicles attain class-leading fuel economy in their respective segments. The development of the systems that govern the operation, integration and regenerative capabilities of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system represent considerable engineering effort, and help enhance the efficiency and performance of succeeding generations of Hybrid Synergy Drive equipped vehicles.

ATHENS, OH–11/22/11-The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the all-new 2011 Scion tC sports coupe, a top overall rating of five stars.

The New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), a consumer information program created by NHTSA, rates vehicles to determine crash and rollover safety. The . . . → Read More: Scion tC Receives Five Star Overall Rating for Crash Tests . . . → Read More: Scion tC Receives Five Star Overall Rating for Crash Tests]]>

Five Star Crash Rating: Scion tC

ATHENS, OH–11/22/11-The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the all-new 2011 Scion tC sports coupe, a top overall rating of five stars.

The New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), a consumer information program created by NHTSA, rates vehicles to determine crash and rollover safety. The test ratings are gathered during controlled crash and rollover tests conducted at the NHTSA research facilities. The announcement was released on the NHTSA website www.safercar.gov.

All Scion models meet or exceed the safety requirements of the federal government and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The tC comes standard with a total of eight supplemental restraint system (SRS) airbags including driver and front passenger airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front-passenger knee airbag, and side curtain airbags.

All 2011 tCs come standard with Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

Additional safety features include a tire pressure monitoring system and newly adopted active front headrests.

“It’s not often that a car combines the best of sporty styling, performance and safety in one package like the Scion tC,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Scion, Athens, Ohio.

The all-new Scion tC, which went on sale in October 2010, has an impressive list of standard features including, 180 horsepower, 6-speed transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels and a 300-watt 8-speaker audio system.

ATHENS, OH, Nov. 22, 2011– The all-new 2012 Hyundai Veloster three-door coupe earned an Auto Style Award from eCityofStyle as part of its12th annual awards program. eCityofStyle.com, the ultimate online source for an insider’s look into the world of style, picked the five most stylish autos . . . → Read More: HYUNDAI VELOSTER WINS AN AUTO STYLE AWARD FROM ECITYOFSTYLE . . . → Read More: HYUNDAI VELOSTER WINS AN AUTO STYLE AWARD FROM ECITYOFSTYLE]]>

Sporty Hyundai Veloster Captures Styling Award

ATHENS, OH, Nov. 22, 2011– The all-new 2012 Hyundai Veloster three-door coupe earned an Auto Style Award from eCityofStyle as part of its12^th annual awards program. eCityofStyle.com, the ultimate online source for an insider’s look into the world of style, picked the five most stylish autos for the current model year. With more than 300 new cars for 2012, the finalists were selected after judges assessed exterior and interior style, fun-to-drive factor, exclusivity, and the all-important head-turning quotient.

“Gone are the days of Hyundai’s budget car status. Today, the Korean automaker is a legitimate threat to the establishment, designing cars that look considerably more expensive than they really are,” said eCityofStyle editors. “The Veloster is perhaps Hyundai’s most successful execution of its new design language, called Fluidic Sculpture. From the tight front end to the sculpted side creases to the powerful wheel arches, the Veloster’s exterior is both aggressive and sleek.”

Following the 2011 Equus’ style award win last year, Hyundai is grabbing consumer attention and media headlines again with Veloster. Veloster and the other winners were selected by fashion editors, stylists, fashion photographers and designers; all experts that live outside of the automotive world.

“With Veloster, we want to show consumers that high style and reasonable pricing can go hand in hand,” said Scott Margason, director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Veloster stands out from the crowd with a stylish yet functional design. We’re honored that eCityofStyle is recognizing the beautiful design and unique personality of the car.”

“The cutting edge design of the new Veloster is great, especially for someone wanting a car that doesn’t look like everything else on the road,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Hyundai, Athens, Ohio.

Veloster’s cutting edge integration of the third-door combined with a breakthrough design inspired by a high-performance sport bike allows Veloster to stand-out from its competition and makes a bold statement about Hyundai’s commitment to innovative design. Distinctive black A-pillars give the glass a motorcycle helmet visor appearance and in the front is an aggressive form of Hyundai’s signature hexagonal front grille and unique Hyundai-signature LED position lights. Veloster’s dynamic rear design has a distinctive glass hatch, dual centered chrome exhaust tips and black lower fascia that complement the assertive front fascia. Inside, the center stack and controls resemble a sport bike fuel tank and the air vents are inspired by motorcycle tailpipes, while the floor console mirrors the seat of a bike.

Joining the Veloster as Auto Style Award winners are the BMW 6 Series, Fiat 500, Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG and Range Rover Evoque. For more information about the 2012 Auto Style Awards visit: http://www.ecityofstyle.com/i91/asa/

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2012 Camero ZL1: World Beating Performance

ATHENS, OH – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 184 mph. Starting at $54,995, including Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride suspension, the ZL1 delivers supercar levels of performance . . . → Read More: Camaro ZL1 by the Numbers: 3.9 Seconds, 184 mph, $54,995 . . . → Read More: Camaro ZL1 by the Numbers: 3.9 Seconds, 184 mph, $54,995]]>  

2012 Camero ZL1: World Beating Performance

ATHENS, OH – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 184 mph. Starting at $54,995, including Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride suspension, the ZL1 delivers supercar levels of performance and technology for the price of a sports car.

“From the original Camaro to the current Corvette ZR1, Chevrolet has a long history of delivering world-class cars that outperformed competitors at several times the price,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Chevrolet Marketing. “The ZL1 is no exception. There are very few cars at any price that can match the power, features, and track-capability of the Camaro ZL1.”

For the $54,995 price, including a $900 delivery fee, the ZL1 compares favorably to much more expensive cars:

Supercar Performance

The heart of the Camaro ZL1 is a supercharged 6.2L engine is SAE-rated at 580 horsepower (432 kW) and 556 lb.-ft. of torque (754 Nm) – making it the most-powerful production Camaro ever.

The LSA features a Roots-style blower with an efficient four-lobe rotor set and compact intercooler The ZL1 also features a standard dual-mode exhaust system, with vacuum-actuated valves in the exhaust pipes for a refined exhaust note at low speeds as well as a free-flowing system for peak performance.

Power is delivered to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. With either transmission, the Camaro ZL1 delivers impressive performance:

The new Camero XL1 brings world class performance at a third the cost of the competition,” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Toyota, Athens, Ohio. “It’s the ultimate enthusiast’s car.”

“With 0 to 60 taking less than four seconds, and a top speed in excess of 180 mph, the power and acceleration of the Camaro ZL1 rivals many supercars,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “And, horsepower is only half of the story, as the most significant measurement of the ZL1’s potential is lapping the Nurburgring in 7:41.27. That is a great testament to the power, braking, grip, and balance of the Camaro ZL1, and to the well-rounded performance of the ZL1 that sets the bar for the sports-car segment.”

Exclusive, track-capable technologies

To deliver that well-rounded performance, the Camaro ZL1 comes standard with several track-capable technologies that are exclusive to the segment.

For example, the Camaro ZL1 is the first sports car to feature the third-generation of Magnetic Ride. This advanced suspension system employs valve-less damping and Magneto-Rheological (MR) fluid technology to varies the suspension firmness to match the road and driving conditions.

“Traditional suspension systems at some point compromise ride quality for road-holding grip and body control,” said Oppenheiser. “With Magnetic Ride Control, we can offer customers the best of both worlds: A comfortable ride that makes the ZL1 appropriate as a daily driver and the incredibly precise body control that makes the ZL1 so enjoyable on the track.”

Also standard on the Camaro ZL1 is Performance Traction Management, which integrates magnetic ride control, launch control, traction control, electronic stability control and electric power steering response to enhance performance.  The technology was first introduced on the Corvette ZR1. With Performance Traction Management, the launch control feature (manual transmission only) automatically modulates engine torque for the best-possible acceleration without excessive wheel spin. When the driver pushes the throttle to the floor, the system holds a predetermined engine speed until the driver releases the clutch. Then, the system modulates engine torque 1,000 times per second to maximize the available traction. Similarly, on a road course, the driver can apply full throttle when exiting a corner and Performance Traction Management will automatically manage acceleration dynamics to maximize exit speed based on available traction.

In addition, the Camaro ZL1 has been engineered to be track-capable from the factory, including a rear-differential cooler, an integrated engine- and transmission-oil cooler, and brake-cooling ducts as standard equipment. As such, the ZL1 offers many technologies and features not available on the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500:

Additional features and options

The interior of the Camaro ZL1 features standard leather seating surfaces with suede microfiber inserts and heated, powered-adjustable front seats. Standard technologies include a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics® audio system; USB and Bluetooth connectivity; and rear-park assist with a rear-view camera display integrated in the center rear-view mirror.

The Camaro ZL1 is available with six options:

• Six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift controls is $1,185
• 20-inch, bright aluminum wheel package is $470
• Power sunroof is $900
• Stripe package is $470
• Exposed-weave carbon fiber hood insert is $600
• The suede package, including suede microfiber accents on the steering wheel, shift knob, and shift boot is $500

The Camaro ZL1 Coupe will go on sale in the spring of 2012, as a 2012 model. The Camaro ZL1 Convertible will go on sale in the summer of 2012, as a 2013 model. Pricing for the Camaro ZL1 Convertible will be announced later.

Q3 2011 Marks Hyundai’s Second Consecutive Quarter on Top

ATHENS, OHIO, Oct. 26, 2011– Innovative product introductions like the all-new Elantra, Accent and Veloster are bringing Hyundai owners back to dealerships. Kelley Blue Book reported that Hyundai upheld its No. 1 spot for brand . . . → Read More: HYUNDAI MAINTAINS NO. 1 SPOT FOR BRAND LOYALTY ON KBB.COM . . . → Read More: HYUNDAI MAINTAINS NO. 1 SPOT FOR BRAND LOYALTY ON KBB.COM]]>

Hyundai No. 1 for Brand Loyalty

Q3 2011 Marks Hyundai’s Second Consecutive Quarter on Top

ATHENS, OHIO, Oct. 26, 2011– Innovative product introductions like the all-new Elantra, Accent and Veloster are bringing Hyundai owners back to dealerships. Kelley Blue Book reported that Hyundai upheld its No. 1 spot for brand loyalty on www.kbb.com for Q3 2011, marking its second consecutive quarter as the top automotive brand. Kbb.com defines brand loyalty as “owners of the brand who are currently shopping the same brand for their next vehicle.”

“Hyundai owners truly love their cars, so it’s no surprise that their support has pushed us to the top of kbb.com’s brand loyalty rankings,” said Scott Margason, director, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “From all-new models like the 40 mile-per-gallon 2012 Veloster, to popular models such as Sonata, Elantra and Accent, we continually offer our customers more reasons to remain loyal to our vehicles and our brand.”

Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence examines brand loyalty while consumers are still in the shopping phase. For this analysis, the team reviewed data from consumers who view a trade-in page or private party page in addition to a new-car page on Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.

“The true measure of a customer’s experience with a brand is if they keep coming back for more. Hyundai customers are voting with their purchases to boost Hyundai to the No. 1 spot for brand loyalty, ” said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Hyundai, Athens, Ohio.

“Hyundai’s loyalty has been relatively high over the past couple of years because owners have been impressed with the level of quality received for the price paid,” said Arthur Henry, market intelligence manager for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “However, Hyundai loyalty is now stronger than any other brand because of the impressive and well-received styling of their recently launched and redesigned models.”

For Q3 2011, Hyundai’s brand loyalty was at 48 percent, with Toyota at 47.9 percent and Subaru at 45.9 percent. Rounding out the top-five brands for Q3 2011 are Kia in the fourth spot at 45.3 percent and Ford in fifth at 45.2 percent.

Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)
Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the only vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the industry. Each week the company provides the most market-reflective values in the industry on its top-rated website www.kbb.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In and Retail Values and Fair Purchase Price, which reports what others are paying for new cars this week. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies as well as governmental agencies. Kbb.com provides consumer pricing and information on minivans, pickup-trucks, cars, hybrids and SUVs. Kelley Blue Book Co. Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of AutoTrader.com.

LOGAN, OHIO–10-26-2011– Chevrolet sold 1.2 million vehicles globally in the third quarter, the . . . → Read More: Record 1.2 Million Chevrolets Sold in Third Quarter of 2011 . . . → Read More: Record 1.2 Million Chevrolets Sold in Third Quarter of 2011]]>

Chevy Sets 100-Year Sales Record

LOGAN, OHIO–10-26-2011– Chevrolet sold 1.2 million vehicles globally in the third quarter, the best July-to-September results in the brand’s 100-year history. In the first nine months of 2011, Chevrolet sold 3.6 million vehicles globally, positioning the brand for its best-ever calendar-year sales.

“Nine months of record sales is a great testament to the strength of Chevrolet’s products and service,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet global marketing and strategy. “That success would not be possible without first connecting with new customers individually – no matter where they live – listening to their needs, and then welcoming them to the Chevrolet family.”

That customer-focused approach is best illustrated by the successful U.S. launch of the Cruze compact sedan. Chevrolet sold more than 175,000 Cruzes worldwide in the third quarter of 2011, fueled by U.S. and China sales growth. More than 970,000 Cruzes have been sold since it was introduced in early 2009, and the 1 millionth Cruze is expected to sell by the end of October.

“One million people have chosen a Cruze in less than three years,” said Perry. “That success was made possible by offering customers around the world more than they expected in a compact car. We are applying that same customer-focused approach to every new Chevrolet car, truck, MPV and utility vehicle.”

The Cruze is part of a wave of new models from Chevrolet, including the Spark mini car, all-new Aveo/Sonic small car, and Orlando MPV. They will soon be joined globally by the all-new Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan and the all-new Colorado compact pickup, which go on sale later this year. The 2013 Malibu began production this week in Korea and the Colorado earlier this month in Thailand.

Chevrolet posted double-digit sales gains for the third quarter in 20 markets throughout Asia, Europe, North America, and South America.

The strength of Chevrolet’s global presence has helped the brand significantly outpace the rest of the global industry. Chevrolet’s third-quarter sales were up 13.8 percent over the same period a year ago, more than tripling the 3.9 percent gain for the industry. Chevrolet also tripled the industry growth rate for the first nine months of the year: Chevrolet sales were up 14.4 percent compared to a 4.5 percent gain for the industry.

“Chevy came storming back this year with popular new vehicles and a commitment to building customer loyalty and trust, said Jeff Wood, President of Don Wood Chevrolet, Logan, Ohio.