Car Blog

2009 MAZDA5 is the Only Model in Its Size Category to Achieve SmartWay Rating –

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently granted six Mazda models its SmartWay Certified Vehicle designation. Giving environmental scores for cars and trucks based on emission levels and fuel economy values, the U.S. EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide listed the 2009 MAZDA3, MAZDA5, MAZDA6, B2300, Tribute and Tribute Hybrid as SmartWay vehicles.

Leading its class, the 2009 MAZDA5 six-passenger, multi-activity vehicle was the only model in its size category to achieve the SmartWay rating.

“One of Mazda’s strengths is the ability to manufacture the right vehicles at the right time, and these six models are definitely right for the market right now,” said Robert Davis, senior vice president, product development and quality, Mazda North American Operations. “Mazda takes great pride in engineering good, quality, fuel efficient vehicles and we are delighted that the U.S. EPA has validated our efforts.”

SmartWay certification is reserved for the cleanest, most fuel efficient vehicles available in today’s market. A SmartWay Certified Vehicle designation is determined by how a vehicle scores using EPA air pollution standards and criteria. Specifically, the scores are based on emission levels (the Air Pollution score) and fuel economy values (the Greenhouse Gas score). Vehicles that score a 6 (out of 10) or better on each of the Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas scores and achieve a combined score of at least 13 when added together qualify as SmartWay Certified Vehicles.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and in Puerto Rico by Mazda de Puerto Rico in San Juan.

Source: Mazda

Available features now include a navigation system, a removable storage cooler and an improved overhead storage console on select models

The restyled 2009 Honda Element builds on its spacious and versatile character by adding a more chiseled exterior appearance and a refreshed interior design with an expanded selection of available high-tech and functional features. The entry-level SUV goes on sale today with a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP(1)) starting at $20,175 for the 2009 Element 2WD LX, plus a destination and handling charge of $670, American Honda Motor Co, Inc., announced today.

For 2009, Honda has enhanced each of the three unique Element styles that range from the rugged and simple Element LX, to the more refined Element EX, to the sporty Element SC. Available new features on the Element EX and SC include the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System(2) with Voice Activation and a rearview camera (automatic transmission-equipped vehicles only); USB digital media connectivity; and improved overhead console storage areas with modular compartments.

Significant exterior styling changes include a new front grille and bumper design, restyled front fenders (now metal, previously composite material), a new hood design, squared wheel arches, and new headlight and taillight configurations.

“The Element’s key strength is a spacious, versatile and rugged interior that adapts quickly and conveniently to people and cargo,” said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “For 2009, the enhancements strengthen the totally unique original concept with more refinement and functionality.”

New interior changes include new, brighter color schemes with titanium-look side linings, new fabric patterns, and revised switchgear designs and meter graphics. A restyled low-profile center console is standard on the Element LX.

The Element EX adds a new convertible center console with a removable cooler/storage box while the Element SC retains its exclusive center console. For additional storage, the Element EX and SC are equipped with a modular three-compartment overhead console based on the Railport(TM) Vehicle Personalization System, expanding the vehicle’s hidden storage versatility compared to the previous version. The new overhead console includes two large storage bins that can accommodate CD cases and similar items and a rear storage area for sunglasses.

The 2.4-liter i-VTEC(R) 4-cylinder engine is available with either a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed automatic transmission. Real Time 4WD(TM), available on the Element LX and EX, enhances all-weather traction. The Element LX and EX continue to be available in two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, while the sport-tuned Element SC continues to be available exclusively in two-wheel-drive. EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings(3) range from 20/25 for two-wheel-drive models with an automatic transmission to 18/23 for manual transmission models with either two-wheel-drive or Real Time 4WD.

2009 Pricing and EPA Data

City/Hwy/Model Transmission/ MSRP(1)/ Combined(3)

Element 2WD LX/ 5-Speed Automatic/ $20,175/ 20/25/22

Element 2WD EX 5/-Speed Automatic/ $22,285/ 20/25/22

Element 2WD EX with Navi/ 5-Speed Automatic/ $23,985/ 20/25/22

Element 2WD SC/ 5-Speed Manual/ $23,170/ 18/23/20

5-Speed Automatic/ $23,970/ 20/25/22

Element 2WD SC with Nav/i 5-Speed Automati/c $25,670/ 20/25/22

Element 4WD LX/ 5-Speed Automati/ $21,375/ 19/24/21

Element 4WD EX/ 5-Speed Manual/ $22,685/ 18/23/20

5-Speed Automatic/ $23,485/ 19/24/21

Element 4WD EX with Navi 5-Speed Automatic $25,185 19/24/21

The Element is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts. For more information and downloadable high-resolution images of Honda vehicles, please visit www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at www.honda.com.

(1) MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $670.00 destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
(2) The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System is available on automatic transmission-equipped Element EX and SC models in the United States, except Alaska. See your Honda dealer for details.
(3) Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Source: American Honda Motor Co.

One of a kind SLR Roadster to be auctioned in partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

n an exclusive offering in Saks Fifth Avenue’s 2008 Holiday Catalog, Mercedes-Benz is giving shoppers the chance to own a piece of history by bidding on a Mercedes McLaren SLR Roadster — among the last of this model built for the U.S. The starting bid is set at $529,500 and all additional funds raised above this amount will be donated to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Thanks and Giving(R) campaign. St. Jude is one of the world’s premier pediatric cancer research centers dedicated to finding cures for children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. St. Jude is the only pediatric cancer research center where families never pay for treatment not covered by insurance. No child is ever denied treatment because of the family’s inability to pay. In partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue to support this remarkable organization the vehicle will be offered via an exclusive online auction on November 20, 2008, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. EST. Interested parties are invited to place their bid at www.mbusa.com/SLRauction.

The Mercedes McLaren SLR Roadster completes its limited production run with this unique SLR Roadster. Featuring a hand-built supercharged V-8 engine with 617 horsepower, retractable roof and top speed of 206 miles per hour, the SLR Roadster moves from 0 – 60 in 3.8 seconds. With special features such as carbon fiber bodywork finished in bespoke SLR Sienna Pearl metallic paint and a signature light brown leather interior, this is the only SLR in this combination destined for the United States. No other roadster brings together this level of interior detail, technology and performance. Through this exclusive auction with Saks Fifth Avenue, one passionate car enthusiast can own a piece of automotive history while supporting the lifesaving work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, making this the perfect gift for this holiday season.

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

In a consumer promotion gear heads will love, the Chicago Auto Show has teamed up with Pepsi to give a $5 discount for weekday tickets to the nation’s biggest automotive exposition. More than 20 million cans of Pepsi will be stocked into greater Chicagoland, and selected Indiana and Wisconsin retailers bearing a promotional “coupon” entitling the bearer to enter the show on weekdays only with a $5 discount off the full admission price.

“This is huge for auto show fans,” said Chicago Auto Show Chairman Mark Scarpelli. “Not only will they get a nice discount ticket for the show, but they’ll also get to enjoy a Pepsi — and you’ve got to love that!”

The promotion is quite simple, according to the show’s general manager, Jerry Cizek of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, producer of the show.

“Just bring a Pepsi can with the Chicago Auto Show ‘promotion coupon’ printed on it to McCormick Place and head for the ticket redemption booth,” said Cizek. “Each marked can is good for one discount ticket on our weekdays. Our ticket takers will exchange the can — which will be recycled — and give the bearer a ticket for half off the regular $10 admission price.”

The specially marked cans of Pepsi are valid for discounted show admission Feb. 13 and Feb. 16-20 only. Customers can find them in Pepsi retailers in the Upper Midwest Division of PepsiAmericas, that includes Chicagoland, plus Aurora, Elk Grove and Kankakee, Ill.; Munster, Ind.; and Milwaukee, Beloit, Oshkosh, Kenosha and Beaver Dam, Wisc.

The 2009 Chicago Auto Show will open to the public Feb. 13-22, 2009 daily at McCormick Place. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Feb. 13-21; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Feb. 22. More than 1,000 new production, concept and specialty vehicles will be on display.

Please consult the show’s Web site, www.ChicagoAutoShow.com for complete details of the promotion.

Source: Chicago Auto Show

HD Radio units will be standard on many Audi vehicles for the 2011 model year

The technology will add the potential to supply a range of data in Audi cars and SUVs

Audio quality will be improved for more than 1,800 AM/FM stations and 900 multicast channels on the FM dial

Providing drivers with a heightened entertainment experience, Audi of America today announced plans to offer HD Radio technology as a standard feature in many of its vehicles beginning with 2011 models, which will start arriving in dealerships in 2010. These luxury vehicles will be fully equipped with the best in digital broadcast engineering, top-of-the-line AM/FM HD Radio audio systems featuring added content and format choices and crystal-clear sound.

“As one of the world’s most progressive car companies, Audi strives to deliver on the pillars of its brand promise — performance and technology. Incorporating HD Radio technology in upcoming models reflects that commitment,” said Johan de Nysschen, Audi of America’s executive vice president. “We believe consumers will want to experience HD Radio broadcasting firsthand because, as with anything we put in our cars, the truth is in the engineering.”

“With a deep appreciation for cutting-edge technology and engineered perfection, Audi and HD Radio technology make natural partners,” said Jeff Jury, COO, iBiquity Digital Corporation, the developer of digital HD Radio technology for AM and FM audio and data broadcasting. “We are very pleased to be associated with Audi’s upscale brand. This further solidifies HD Radio Technology as a key feature for the luxury market.”

With more than 1,800 AM and FM stations and over 900 new multicast channels (HD2/HD3) on the FM dial currently broadcasting, HD Radio technology is the latest advancement in broadcast radio — a medium accessed by more than 90 percent of the U.S. population in any given week. These exclusive subscription-free channels feature digitally delivered, fresh new music, news and entertainment formats.

HD Radio technology is also a platform for broadcast data delivery, supplying text information with not just song titles and artist names, but real-time traffic/weather updates, movie listings, sports scores, stock quotes, school closings and emergency alerts too.

Audi is a leader in offering luxury features to premium car buyers, and has been offering Sirius satellite radio as standard equipment in its models. That will continue as HD Radio technology becomes available in Audi cars and SUVs, as well.

More information on HD Radio stations currently broadcasting nationwide can be found at http://www.hdradio.com/.

Source: Audi of America Inc.

The Suburban Collection will celebrate the grand opening of Suburban Mazda of Sterling Heights (40331 Van Dyke) on Monday, October 27th. The ribbon cutting ceremony at 6:30 p.m. will kick off a three day community festival and a fundraiser for the fight against cancer. Executives from The Suburban Collection and Ford Motor Company will join city officials from Sterling Heights and representatives from the American Cancer Society for the ribbon cutting.

“Opening a new dealership is always something to celebrate,” said David Fischer, Chairman and CEO of The Suburban Collection. “In today’s challenging environment we are especially proud to launch this new dealership. Suburban Mazda of Sterling Heights and the newly renovated Suburban Ford of Sterling Heights demonstrate our commitment to growth, to our partnership with the Ford Motor Company and to the community.”

The grand opening celebration on Monday will begin with the Marching Band from Henry Ford II High School and the music entertainment will continue later in the evening with the School Jazz Ensemble from Henry Ford High School.

“We hope everyone in the area stops by to have some food and enjoy our Halloween fun,” said Jim Elder, General Manager of Suburban Ford and Suburban Mazda of Sterling Heights. “It’s our way of saying thank you to everyone in the community.”

On Tuesday night the celebration continues with a Halloween Costume contest for teens (12 and up) and free iPods for the winners. The Jazz Ensemble from Sterling Heights High School will perform on Tuesday night.

Wednesday night concludes the festivities with a Kids Costume Contest (under 12 yrs); winners will receive a $100 U.S. Savings bond. For each entry into the Kids Costume Contest, Suburban Mazda of Sterling Heights will donate $10 to Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.

To learn about community events supported by the Suburban Collection visit www.suburbancollection.com .

The Suburban Collection is an automobile dealership group headquartered in Troy, Michigan. The company began in 1948 in Birmingham, Michigan and today includes 30 brands and 43 locations throughout Michigan and south Florida. In addition to automobile dealerships the group also includes collision centers and automotive accessory distributorships. The Suburban Collection has the largest number of automobile dealerships in Michigan, ranks 17th in Crain’s List of the Private 200 Companies in Michigan and is the 14th largest automotive retail chain in the United States.

Source: The Suburban Collection