Category: New Model Introductions

The new Explorer has, by far, the most distinctive styling of all Explorers. It does have Explorer cues, but also cues from the Ford Taurus. Its predecessors were evolutionary from the first generation almost to a fault. The new Explorer breaks the mold and its Taurus-esque cues are very evident.

Cadillac had set up a flurry of identical specification CTS Coupes for a group of journalists and analysts to drive through the hills surrounding Napa Valley. Some of the most picturesque and challenging roads in the country put the CTS Coupes to the test. The CTS Coupe is the third of the three bodystyles Cadillac plans for the CTS. The first was the sedan introduced in 2008 followed by the European-inspired wagon in 2009 and now the Coupe in 2010.

The Jeep development team was also tasked with developing the next generation Mercedes ML 5-passenger SUV. The result is the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. A loose platform companion with the next generation ML and the best Grand Cherokee ever.

Cadillac is adding standard scheduled maintenance - Premium Care - to its 2011 Model Year products. Providing scheduled maintenance is a way to demonstrate commitment to the customer, reduce ownership costs and increase customer loyalty. BMW has been offering scheduled maintenance for years and has effectively shed its "Break My Wallet" image that existed prior to the scheduled maintenance program.

We recently had the opportunity to drive the new 2011 Silverado HD and Sierra HD pickups. They may not look very different, but with an all-new frame and chassis and an improved powertrain these vehicles should be considered all-new.
New and improved is the theme, at least in every aspect except exterior and interior appearance.

The Sonata scored the highest ratings ever in the 14 year history of AutoPacific's vehicle satisfaction research. As a 2011 model year car, the Sonata was not eligible for AutoPacific's 2010 Vehicle Satisfaction Award, but we felt it was only right to recognize the Sonata in some way. Hence, AutoPacific is awarding the 2011 Hyundai Sonata with its first-ever President's Award.

The Sonata scored the highest ratings ever in the 14 year history of AutoPacific's vehicle satisfaction research. As a 2011 model year car, the Sonata was not eligible for AutoPacific's 2010 Vehicle Satisfaction Award, but we felt it was only right to recognize the Sonata in some way. Hence, AutoPacific is awarding the 2011 Hyundai Sonata with its first-ever President's Award.

The first generation QX is based on the Titan pickup and assembled at Nissan's Canton, Mississippi assembly plant. The new QX is based on the Japanese market Nissan Patrol and produced in Japan.

Nissan lays down the gauntlet with heavily aggressive pricing for their first EV, the LEAF.

Capping Audi's Centennial Anniversary, the launch of the A8 is very significant to the company. The A8 is being introduced in Europe and China earlier in 2010 with the USA getting A8 in Winter 2010 or Spring 2010.