USA - Kelley Blue Book names the Ford F-150 as it's Best Buy Of The Year for Trucks award 2016.

The 2017 Ford F-150 is taking home the Kelley Blue Book KBB.com “Best Buy” of the Year for trucks award, marking the third year in a row F-150 has won the honor.

The 2017 Ford F-150 – the toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 ever – introduces an updated powertrain lineup with the debut of its all-new 3.5-liter EcoBoost^® and Ford-built 10-speed automatic. 

The powertrain provides 50 lb.-ft. more peak torque, and features improvements across all three EPA fuel economy ratings – city, highway and combined – of 1 mpg over the 2016 model.

Also new for the 2017 F-150 is the return of the STX Appearance Package bundling numerous exterior and interior features that aren’t normally available to give F-150 customers a great value truck. For comfort and convenience, BLIS^® with cross-traffic alert now includes trailer coverage, while SYNC^® Connect with FordPass^®allows drivers to lock, unlock and locate their vehicle remotely. Customers can also schedule starts and check the fuel level remotely via the FordPass smartphone platform.

The Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards are designed to provide a significant service to American new-car buyers by identifying the cream of the crop of all available 2017 model-year vehicles.  These awards are the culmination of a year-long regimen of expert vehicle evaluation and testing of nearly every new vehicle available in America, along with analysis of a broad swath of vehicle-related data, including vehicle pricing/transaction prices, 5-Year Cost to Own data (which includes depreciation, insurance, maintenance, financing, fuel, fees and taxes for new cars), consumer reviews and ratings, and vehicle sales/retail sales information. 

USA - How do you make the Exclusive even more so, by making a special Limited Edition, thats what Mercedes has done.

The first cabriolet from the Mercedes-Maybach brand is making its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show and is all set to hit markets in the spring of 2017 – limited to 300 examples and with a net price tag of 300,000 euros. 

Unique features include nine additional colour concepts for the interior, the trim - optionally with “flowing lines” - plus the hand-finished craftsmanship of the leather seats with perforations in a waterfall-style look. The drive system is a 6.0-litre V12 engine with an output of 463 kW (630 hp).

A glimpse into the future of the luxury brand was provided by the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6, which made its European premiere at the Paris Motor Show just a few weeks ago. 

This is now being followed by the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet, a series production model which, embodies modern luxury and represents the design philosophy of Sensual Purity: it is both hot and cool at the same time. Worldwide just 300 examples of this open-top four-seater model will be produced.

The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 is based on the open-top S-Class and has adopted the latter’s classic proportions, among other features, with highlights which include the dynamic silhouette with coupé-like soft top and the dropping line along the side which slopes down towards the rear. 

Exclusive Mercedes-Maybach features include a new front bumper with upgraded lower section and also numerous chrome highlights. The Maybach emblem is discreetly but elegantly featured on the vehicle’s wing. Other special elements on the exterior include the high-quality 20-inch Maybach forged wheels in a powerful design with a bichromatic finish. On opening the doors, the Maybach logo is projected onto the floor by means of entrance lighting.

Interior theme: “Everything flows”

In the interior, the fully leather-trimmed Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet brings some of the visionary ideas of the Concept S‑Class Coupé show car (IAA 2013) to series production. These include the dynamic “flowing lines” in the seats. This waterfall-like seat upholstery look is achieved with the aid of progressive perforations. An eye for detail is also demonstrated in the outer diamond quilting on the seat side bolsters and the Budapest piping.

The unique trim elements are commissioned individually for each vehicle based on the colour and grain. In addition to trim on the instrument panel and door panelling, the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet exclusively boasts a trim element on top of the soft top compartment with inlaid Maybach logo. As an option, the look can be refined with “flowing lines”. In combination with the other trim elements a unique yacht ambience is created – inspired by the Mercedes-Benz Style “Arrow 460-Granturismo” yacht.

The flowing lines are generated by a combination of precision machining and traditional craftsmanship. As part of this, the substrate beneath the fine wood veneer of the three-dimensional trim element is exposed in a special process using a fine milling cutter (with a diameter of 0.8 mm). The individually milled lines follow the shape of the trim, thus reinforcing the three-dimensional effect.

Exclusive to the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet are trim elements in designo nut brown magnolia – either with flowing lines or in a high-gloss finish. Nine additional interior colour concepts – from pastel yellow/black to porcelain/saddle brown – provide for further individualisation.

Mercedes-Maybach logos are located on the front side of the seats (embroidered), on the back of the head restraints (embossed) and also inlaid in the stowage cover of the centre console. Other details include deep-pile floor mats, chrome-plated “1 of 300” lettering on the cup holder, and the steering wheel which features Maybach lettering on the lower bezel.

All of the optional extras of the S-Class Cabriolet come as standard on the Mercedes-Maybach, including AIRCAP, AIRSCARF and Swarovski headlamps.

Elegant items of luggage: colour-coordinated to match the interior variant

The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet is equipped as standard with an exclusive travel luggage set from MAYBACH - ICONS OF LUXURY. “THE AFFINITY” set comprises two large travel bags as well as two lifestyle bags made of original vehicle leather. In terms of form and colour – which are coordinated with the interior variant selected by the customer – the bag set is tailored to match the Cabriolet. The bags can be securely attached to each other with straps to enable optimum use of the space in the boot.

Just like the vehicles from Mercedes-Maybach, the elegant items of luggage from the licence partner MAYBACH - ICONS OF LUXURY GmbH meet high standards in terms of design, materials and the German art of manufacturing.

Supplied as standard: exclusive fabric cover and certificate

The scope of delivery of each Mercedes-Maybach Cabriolet includes a car cover made of high-quality fabric in the soft top colour, with diamond quilting and embroidered Maybach emblem and lettering on the bonnet.

In addition, each Mercedes-Maybach Cabriolet is delivered with a special welcome pack. This comprises a key ring made of the nappa leather used in the vehicle and in the interior colour, with Maybach emblem and “1 of 300” lettering, as well as a certificate signed by Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes Benz Cars.

The powertrain: a fitting biturbo V12

The luxury cabriolet’s superior drive system relies on the 6.0-litre biturbo V12 engine with an output of 463 kW(630 hp). Power transmission to the rear axle comes via 7G-TRONIC, while the AIRMATIC suspension with steplessly variable damping control ensures a special driving sensation.

Technical data at a glance:

	Mercedes-Maybach S 650
Number of cylinders/arrangement	12/V
Displacement (cc)	5980
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm)	463 (630) at 4800-5400
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	1000 at 2300-4300
Fuel consumption (NEDC), combined (l/100 km) / (mpg)	12.0 / 23.5
Combined CO2 emissions (g/km)	272
Efficiency class	F
Acceleration 0-100 kmh / 62 mph (s)	4.1
Top speed (km/h) / (mph)	250 / 155

Mercedes-Maybach: innovative strength fused with exclusivity

Mercedes-Maybach stands for the ultimate in exclusivity and individuality for status-oriented customers. The current vehicles include the Mercedes-Maybach S 500 and S 600 models, launched in February 2015, which blend the innovative strength of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. 

A special protection version, the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard, is the world’s first passenger car to meet the highest ballistic protection level for civilian vehicles, VR10. 

The latest models are the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Pullman (introduced at the start of 2016) and the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Pullman Guard (first deliveries scheduled for the second half of 2017), both with a vis‑à-vis seating layout.

USA - Mazda uses the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show to unveil the new CX-5 Sports utility Vehicle, a huge step forward.

• New-generation compact SUV takes the baton of Mazda’s best-selling model in Europe
• Debuts Soul Red Crystal, a new premium body colour accenting the CX-5’s KODO Design
• Other highlights include excellent NVH and a segment-unique windscreen head-up display

Mazda revealed the all-new CX-5 today in the run-up to the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show. 

It’s a completely redesigned edition of the compact SUV that in 2012 kicked-off a generation of critically acclaimed cars featuring the company’s efficient lightweight SKYACTIV Technology and award-winning KODO – Soul of Motion designs.

Mazda refined virtually every aspect of the all-new CX-5, aiming to share the pleasure of driving with everyone on board. 

The new generation was engineered with a strong focus on human sensibilities to deliver responsive performance corresponding to driver expectations, but also prioritising passenger comfort for a pleasant ride in a remarkably quiet and finely crafted cabin.

The all-new CX-5 comes with the full range of SKYACTIV Technology including two petrol engines – the SKYACTIV-G 2.0 and SKYACTIV-G 2.5 – and the SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel. All three deliver powerful, linear performance along with outstanding real-world fuel economy and remarkably low emissions. The new model also features G-Vectoring Control, a new Jinba Ittai – enhancing technology from Mazda. Additional highlights include a windscreen head-up display – one of the first in its class – and a remote-controlled power liftgate.

The bold, sensual KODO exterior enhances the CX-5’s distinct personality. Its physique emphasises a solid stance and expression of forward momentum, while the newly developed Soul Red Crystal body colour premiering on the CX-5 highlights KODO’s appeal by heightening the depth of the body’s surfaces. Soul Red Crystal is an advanced version of Soul Red Metallic, imparting a fresher, more radiant transparence with 20% greater colour saturation and 50% more depth.

Like other Mazda premium colours, Soul Red Crystal uses Mazda’s Takuminuri painting technology, which gives mass-production vehicles the quality and precision of a hand-painted finish, in a unique three-coat structure. Thanks to a specially developed pigment and different flakes that reflect and absorb light, Mazda achieved an extraordinarily deep and vivid finish.

The all-new CX-5 will go on sale in February in Japan prior to its roll-out in other markets around the world. Currently Mazda’s best-selling model in Europe, the CX-5 is sold in more than 120 countries and represents around one-quarter of Mazda’s global unit sales. It has won more than 90 awards worldwide including 2012-2013 Japan Car of the Year as well as numerous best SUV and crossover prizes.

The new-generation compact SUV will be on display throughout the Los Angeles Auto Show, which opens to the public from 18-27 November. Mazda will hold a press conference at 12:50 today, 16 November, the first of two press days.

USA - NISMO comes to the small sedan for Nissan as they update the Sentra for the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show.

• First-ever Sentra NISMO is the latest in a long line of compact Nissan performance sedans going back nearly 50 years to the Datsun 510 and the original Sentra SE-R
• Brings motorsports-inspired NISMO factory-tuned performance to Nissan's popular Sentra sedan
• Comprehensive transformation includes aggressive exterior treatment, performance-oriented interior, stiffened body structure and unique suspension tuning
• One of four new Nissan models debuting at Los Angeles Auto Show – along with 2017 Versa Note and JUKE Black Pearl Edition, both also on display for the first time – and Nissan Rogue: Rogue One Star WarsLimited Edition model

Nissan today kicked off its slate of new product debuts at the Los Angeles Auto Show with a preview of the new 2017 Nissan Sentra NISMO in downtown Los Angeles. 

The off-site event displayed the latest member of the motorsports-inspired NISMO lineup against a backdrop of classic Nissan and Datsun performance vehicles and where it is most at home – on the street. 

Tomorrow Nissan moves into the Los Angeles Convention Center for an action-packed reveal of the new Nissan Rogue: Rogue One Star Wars Limited Edition model.

"For 2017, we're bringing new excitement to Sentra with the Sentra NISMO, which brings driving enthusiasts aftermarket tuner-style performance straight from the factory," said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. 

"With an estimated starting price of under $25,000 when it arrives in January, Sentra NISMO is going to be very popular here in Southern California and around the U.S."

At the heart of the new Sentra NISMO is a 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) turbocharged engine rated at 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The engine is matched with choice of a 6-speed manual transmission, with gear ratios selected to take maximum advantage of the engine's powerband and torque curve, or an advanced, tuned Xtronic transmission.

"It's important to offer a 6-speed manual transmission with the new Sentra NISMO, both to reinforce its pure performance credentials and to up the direct engagement factor between driver and the vehicle," added Bunce.

In addition to the new Sentra NISMO, the 2017 Sentra is offered in five other grade levels: Sentra S, SV, SR, SR Turbo and SL. For full information on Sentra NISMO and the entire Sentra lineup, please visit NissanNews.com.

The new Sentra NISMO, 2017 Versa Note, 2017 JUKE Black Pearl Edition and Nissan Rogue: Rogue One Star Wars Limited Edition – along with the complete Nissan model lineup – will be on display at the show in the Nissan exhibit, which is located in the West Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center. The 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show runs from Friday, November 18 through Sunday, November 27.

USA - Volvo and its new S90 Luxury Sedan are in line for a pair of wins in two Car of the Year awards.

The all-new Volvo S90 luxury sedan is a finalist for 2017 North American Car of the Year and a runner up for 2017 Motor Trend Car of the Year.

Volvo Cars is now poised to win a North American ‘of the Year’ award for the second year in a row, having taken top honors for 2016 North American Truck/Utility of the Year with the XC90 SUV.

In addition, the Volvo S90 was the top luxury car in the 2017 Motor Trend Car of the Year competition, making it to the final round of judging ahead of all other luxury brands.

Both the S90 and XC90 share the same Scalable Product Architecture platform, Drive-E powertrain, and Intellisafe safety features. The S90 is also the first car to come with semi-autonomous driving technology as standard in Pilot Assist.

“We are extremely proud to see the S90 get such recognition,” said Lex Kerssemakers, Senior Vice President Americas and President and CEO, Volvo Car USA. “Our global team of designers and engineers has delivered a car that is really turning heads.”