The award-winning Kia Sorento is again in the limelight, this time being named to Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com coveted “10 Best Family Cars of 2012” list. The ultra-popular CUV enjoys this accolade for a second year in a row. Lauded for its outstanding drivability, functionality, refinement and comfort, the Sorento has defined a number of milestones for Kia, including becoming the first model in the product line to surpass 100,000 sales in a single year as well as being Kia’s first U.S.-built vehicle at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) in West Point, Ga.

“Sorento’s achievement of being recognized as one of the ‘10 Best Family Cars of 2012’ by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com is a testament to its exceptional safety, comfort and feature content,” said Michael Sprague, vice president, marketing & communications, Kia Motors America. “As Kia’s best-selling vehicle, Sorento’s low cost of ownership has resulted in strong consumer ratings, making it a favorite among family buyers.”

Editors from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com evaluated vehicles based on several main criteria important to family car buyers, including safety, childfriendliness, comfort, economy of operation – which factors fuel consumption, insurance premiums and repair costs – and resale value. The kbb.com editors selected the vehicles that offer the best combination of these characteristics and the highest overall value for everyday families.

Kbb.com editors underscored the Sorento’s available three row seating capacity and highway fuel economy of 32 miles-per gallon. “Good fuel economy is only part of the story,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com. “The Sorento starts under $24,000 and offers a voice-controlled infotainment system plus a great big panoramic moonroof.” For more information about kbb.com’s “10 Best Family Cars of 2012,” visit http://www.kbb.com/ car-news/all-the-latest/10-bestfamily- cars-of-2012/.

Kia’s Unprecedented Growth Kia Motors is the one of the world’s fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America’s full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality and the industry’s highest brand loyalty ranking. Kia’s U.S.- based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company’s two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan. Kia’s value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

The Scion iQ (EPA rated 37 mpg combined), Camry Hybrid (EPA rated 40.5 mpg combined average for LE and XLE trim levels), and Prius v (EPA rated 42 mpg combined) all arrived to market in late 2011. The Prius Plug-in (EPA rated 50 mpg combined and 95 MPGe), featuring extended electric range, is making its way to first customers in the 15 launch states, and the Prius c (EPA rated 50 mpg combined) will be on sale nationally March 12.

These new vehicles represent a broad range of leading-edge drivetrain and engineering technologies that help them achieve a high level of efficiency. Hybrid Synergy Drive, extended electric vehicle range, generous use of lightweight high strength steel, a focus on aerodynamics, and the use of efficient Continuously Variable Transmissions are among the features that help these new vehicles attain a high level of fuel efficiency.

These five new models arrive to market with Toyota already enjoying a 12-percent improvement in Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) and a 10- percent improvement in U.S. truck CAFE over the past five years. Toyota remains committed to a long-term plan to bring a portfolio of advanced technologies to market, including hybrid, battery electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

According to the EPA class summary found on U.S. Department of Energy’s www.fueleconomy.gov website, Toyota offers several models that achieve 2012 Best-in Class fuel economy EPA ratings (excluding Plug-in Hybrid and pure EV vehicles). The Prius c leads the EPA’s compact classification with 50 mpg combined. The Prius Liftback’s combined 50 mpg leads the EPA’s midsize category, and the midsize station wagon class is led by the 42 mpg combined offered by the Prius v. These segment classifications are determined by the EPA’s measurement of a vehicle’s interior volume.

Toyota and Scion branded vehicles also represent six of the site’s Top 10 EPArated Fuel Sippers for 2012 (excluding PHEV or pure EV products), and occupy four spots in that list’s top five. Toyota family vehicles found on the U.S Department of Energy’s Fueleconomy.gov Top Ten EPA-rated Fuel Sippers include:

• 2012 Prius c (ranked 1st, 53 city, 46 hwy)
• 2012 Prius (ranked 2nd, 51 city, 48 hwy)
• 2012 Prius v (ranked 4th, 4 4 city, 40 hwy)
• Toyota Camry Hybrid LE (ranked 7th, 43 city, 39 hwy)
• Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE (ranked 8th, 40 city, 3 8 hwy)
• 2012 Scion iQ (ranked 10th, 36 city, 37 hwy)

Prius was named the Best Overall Value of the year (Passenger Car category) for 2012 by IntelliChoice. Prius continues to be the world’s best-selling fuel efficient vehicle, with more than 3.5 million vehicles sold worldwide. Since its U.S. introduction in 2000, Prius – when compared to the average car – has saved American consumers an estimated $2.93 billion in fuel costs*, 1.1 billion gallons of gas* and 16.1 million tons of CO2 emissions*.

“The Camaro 1LE combines the best elements of the SS and ZL1 to take road-racing performance to a whole new level,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “That the 1LE breaks the three-minute lap at VIR puts it in the upper echelon of performance cars. That it starts under $40,000 makes the Camaro 1LE one of the most affordable, most capable track-day cars offered by any manufacturer.”

In anticipation of consumers entering the 1LE in amateur-racing events, Chevrolet is pursuing SCCA approval of the 1LE package for Touring Class competition.

For 2013, all Camaro SS models including the 1LE will feature standard variable-effort electric power steering and an available dual-mode exhaust system. Both features were introduced on the ZL1. Additionally, 2013 Camaro LT, SS and ZL1 models are available with Chevrolet’s color touch radio with MyLink infotainment system.

“With the 2013 model year, Camaro offers something for almost every driver, including: the 323- horsepower, 30-mpg 2LS; the allnew, 580-horsepower supercharged ZL1 convertible; the COPO Camaro for drag-racing; and the new 1LE for amateur track days,” said John Fitzpatrick, Camaro marketing manager. “We expect the range of choices, and enhancements for 2013, will help Camaro remain America’s most-popular sports car.”

Camaro sales were up nearly 20 percent for the first two months of the year, building on an 8.5-percent gain for all of 2011. The 1LE package goes on sale this fall with the 2013 Camaro line. Pricing will be released later this year.

A heritage of handling
The Camaro 1LE package was introduced in 1988, inspired by Camaro’s involvement in Pro-Am road racing.

For 2013, the 1LE package is offered only on 1SS and 2SS coupe models, featuring a 6.2L LS3 V-8, which is rated at 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb-ft of torque (569 Nm). In addition, 1LE is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

While the Camaro SS features a Tremec TR6060-M10 for all-around performance, the Camaro 1LE features an exclusive Tremec TR6060- MM6. Paired with a numerically higher 3.91 final-drive ratio, the close-ratio gearing of the transmission is tuned for road-racing performance. As with the ZL1, the 1LE transmission features a standard air-to-liquid cooling system for track use.

The 1LE also features exclusive, monotube rear dampers instead of the twin-tube dampers on SS models. The new hardware allowed engineers to tune the 1LE suspension to focus on optimal body-motion control while preserving much of the ride quality and wheel-motion control of the Camaro SS.

Other changes to optimize the 1LE for track-day use include:
• Larger, 27-mm solid front stabilizer bar, and 28-mm solid rear stabilizer bar for improved body control
• Higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts to cope with increased levels of traction
• Strut tower brace for improved steering feel and response
• ZL1-based 20 x 10-inch front and 20 x 11-inch aluminum wheels
• 285/35ZR20 Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires front and rear (identical to the front tires for ZL1)
• ZL1 wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts for improved on-track performance
• ZL1 high-capacity fuel pump and additional fuel pickups for improved fuel delivery during high-cornering

Visually, the 1LE package for 2013 is distinguished by its matte-black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler – as well as the 10-spoke ZL1-based wheels, which are finished in black. The functional front splitter and rear spoiler contribute to the car’s on-track performance by helping to reduce aerodynamic lift at high speeds.

Inside, the 1LE package incorporates the ZL1’s flat-bottom steering wheel, trimmed in sueded microfiber and designed for easier heel-and-toe driving on the racetrack. The quick-acting, short-throw shifter from the ZL1 is also trimmed in sueded microfiber.

Electric power steering and dual mode exhaust bring ZL1 technology to SS models.

All 2013 Camaro SS models, including the 1LE, will benefit from performance technologies that debuted on the 580-horsepower Camaro ZL1.

The improvements began in 2012, when all SS Coupes incorporated the ZL1-derived chassis element: Stabilizer bars with drop links repositioned outboard of the control arms. This made the stabilizer bars four times more effective than in previous models, for improved control of body roll and crisper response to steering input.

New for 2013, the electric power steering system developed for the ZL1 will be standard on all 2013 SS models. The variable ratio, variable effort system provides light efforts for easy maneuverability at parking-lot speeds as well as increased resistance at higher speeds. This provides more feedback, and a more direct steering feel, to the driver.

Also new for 2013 is an available dual-mode exhaust system, available on Camaro SS models with the LS3 V8 engine and six-speed manual transmissions. Similar to the systems found on the ZL1 and Corvette models, this vacuum-actuated system provides a quieter driving experience at low engine speeds and a more aggressive sound at high engine speeds.

A total of seven Honda brand vehicles earned recognition from the American Council for an Energy- Efficient Economy (ACEEE), including four Honda vehicles named the “greenest vehicles of 2012.” In the annual ACEEE’s “Green Book Online” ranking of environmentally responsible vehicles, the near-zero emissions natural gas-powered Civic Natural Gas five-passenger sedan tied for second place, with the Insight, Civic Hybrid and CR-Z also included on the list of ACEEE’s 12 most environmentally responsible vehicles available to the public.

The Insight hybrid, the compact Fit and the Odyssey minivan were also named as “greener choices of 2012” within their respective classes. This is the 14th straight year that multiple Honda vehicles have been named in the top 12.

“Honda is honored to have our natural gas vehicle and our hybrid and gasoline-powered vehicles among ACEEE’s ‘greenest’ and ‘greener’ choices,” said Steven Center, vice president of the Environmental Business Development Office at American Honda. “The ACEEE’s annual recognition of Honda’s fuel efficient vehicles further validates our commitment to create a cleaner, more energy-efficient and sustainable transportation future.”

The ACEEE ranking system uses a singular measure that incorporates fuel economy and health-related pollution impacts plus global warming and upstream emissions. All vehicles are analyzed and given a “Green Score” which is used to rank a vehicle’s total environmental performance, including a list of the 12 “greenest” and 12 “meanest” vehicles along with a ranking of greenest vehicles by segment.

Named as one of the list’s ‘greenest vehicles,’ the Civic Natural Gas is the only OEM built, dedicated CNG passenger car assembled in the U.S. and the only vehicle certified by the EPA to meet both Federal Tier 2 Bin 2 and Inherently Low Emission Vehicle (ILEV) zero evaporative emission certification standards. Honda recently announced the expansion of Civic Natural Gas retail sales to 197 dealers in 36 states. The increased availability of the Civic Natural Gas helps bring inherently clean burning natural gas technology to an even broader audience while also supporting diversity in transportation energy resources. Featuring new styling, enhanced feature content and increased fuel economy, the redesigned 2012 Civic Natural Gas can now be equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System featuring an exclusive database of publicly accessible Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refueling stations across the United States.

Honda’s Environmental Leadership
Honda has a long history of environmental innovation, including the retail introduction of America’s first hybrid (1999 Honda Insight), delivery of the first fuel-cell electric vehicle in the U.S. (2002 Honda FCX) and the first gasoline-powered vehicles in the hands of consumers to meet stricter emissions standards, including: the 1996 Honda Civic, the first gasoline Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV); the 1998 Honda Accord, the first gasoline Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV); the 2000 Honda Accord, the first gasoline Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV); and the 2001 Civic Natural Gas, the first vehicle to quality as an Advanced Technology Partial-Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV). The Honda Fit EV and the Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid, both coming soon, will be the next critical steps in Honda’s portfolio approach to alternative fueled vehicles.

The 2012 Honda Fit has won the Cars.com/USA TODAY/ MotorWeek $16,000 Subcompact Shootout. Honda’s versatile and fuel-efficient Fit took the top spot in a competition among seven popular subcompact cars that seat at least four, have four doors, get at least 35 mpg on the highway, and can be purchased for less than $16,000. Experts from Cars.com, USA Today and “MotorWeek” tested these subcompacts to measure all of the needs of the average car-buyer including gas mileage, practicality, user features and comfort.

“We are thrilled to have the exceptional package that is the Honda Fit recognized by such a well-respected group of automotive media,” said Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing operations, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “To have topped such a wide group of competition in such a thorough, real-world evaluation demonstrates that Honda versatility, value and fun are standard even in our most affordable model.”

“As gas prices and used-car prices continue to rise, a shootout like this acts as a guide for consumers looking to purchase a new subcompact as an alternative to a used vehicle,” said Patrick Olsen, editor-in-chief of Cars.com. “In addition to confident handling, a solid transmission, great visibility and unmatched practicality, the Honda Fit is just fun to drive and emerged as our clear winner.”

Beyond this latest Cars.com/ USA TODAY/MotorWeek shootout win, the 2012 Honda Fit is also an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) TOP SAFETY PICK and received the 2012 Residual Value Award from ALG. The Fit topped the J.D. Power and Associates’ Initial Quality StudySM (IQS) for 2011 in its segment, and is a six-time winner of Car and Driver magazine’s “10 Best Cars” award, having garnered this accolade every year it has been on sale in the U.S.

The brands have created six new vehicles – all featuring a host of Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories – for the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. Now in its 46th year and taking place March 31 – April 8, the Easter Jeep Safari will be attended by thousands of die-hard off-road enthusiasts looking to enjoy a week of wheeling on some of the country’s most renowned and challenging trails. Mopar also announced the creation of an off-road division that will create Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.

“We’re delighted to showcase six new vehicles to our loyal Jeep fans at this year’s Moab Easter Jeep Safari,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Jeep Safari has long been a great way for Jeep to connect with its core audience. We look forward to spending the week demonstrating our latest potential production and customization ideas and gathering instant feedback from the most knowledgeable 4×4 enthusiasts in the world.”

To create these new vehicles, Jeep teamed with Mopar, which celebrates its 75^th anniversary this year and offers more than 1,000 accessories and performance parts for Jeep vehicles.

“Mopar is tapping into a growing trend among extreme Jeep enthusiasts who want even more power and capability on the trail,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “This year, Mopar is pushing the envelope in this arena by offering our customers new Pro 60 portal axles and a new HEMI conversion kit, which we will showcase in these new vehicles. In addition, to further maximize our presence in the off-road market, we are creating a Mopar Off-Road division to develop Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.”

Since 2002, Jeep and Mopar have teamed to create more than 30 unique concept vehicles for enthusiasts who attend the popular Easter Jeep Safari.

Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories, New Mopar Off-road Division
Jeep engineers, working closely with Mopar’s new off-road division, will create authentic parts and accessories for Jeep vehicles. New products from the group will be called Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories. Each part and accessory will be specifically designed, built and quality-tested in order to meet strict Jeep specifications and fulfill the Jeep brand’s requirements for 4×4 capability, craftsmanship and versatility.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is well known for its benchmark off-road capability, courtesy of its Quadra-Lift^™ air suspension, Selec-Terrain^™ traction control system, Off-Road Adventure packages, tow/recovery hooks tested to twice the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight, and class-leading 4×4 systems – including Jeep’s Quadra-Drive^® II system that includes a rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD), delivering industry leading tractive capability.

Already the most awarded SUV ever over its lifetime compared to any other SUV, the new Grand Cherokee Trailhawk concept takes the premium Jeep vehicle’s legendary off-road prowess to a new level, while providing a one-of-a-kind, more aggressive visual punch sure to delight Jeep enthusiasts.

Leading the off-road improvement are new 18-inch Goodyear Wrangler SilentArmor off-road tires – chosen to provide even more aggressive off-road performance combined with quiet highway manners – that are wrapped around new painted 5-spoke alloy Mineral Gray wheels. Grand Cherokee Trailhawk’s SilentArmor tires include additional side-wall protection that enhances durability and reduces road noise. Modified Mopar rock rails – engineered to fully protect the lower body from rugged rocky terrain – are included and add to the functional off-road capability.

Visually, while the vehicle is featured in Stone White, a Mineral Gray and Red theme is highlighted throughout. Specifically, the grille surround, lower front applique, mirror caps and rear light bar join the wheels in Mineral Gray, while contrasting in eye-catching Red are the upper grille mesh, front and rear tow hooks, Jeep logos on wheel center caps and bolt holes in the alloy wheels. A Red trim line outlines a matte black hood applique that is utilized to reduce glare during technical off-road maneuvers.

Other unique touches include black headlamp surrounds, black exterior front and rear badging, Red “Trail Rated” badges on the front fenders and a unique “Trailhawk” badge on the rear tailgate.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache from Mopar

Jeep enthusiasts have been asking for a V-8 powered Jeep HEMI Wrangler, and Mopar is coming through. Debuting at the Easter Jeep Safari will be the new Mopar 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine conversion kit specifically for the Jeep Wrangler. Producing approximately 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels, the Mopar V-8 conversion kit gives Jeep enthusiasts an unprecedented blend of power and capability.

Available this summer, the Mopar Wrangler V-8 conversion kit initially will mate to Chrysler Group’s W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission, and eventually to the six-speed manual transmission that drives the 2012 production Wrangler.

Other performance parts on the Jeep Wrangler Apache are Mopar Pro 60 5.13 front and rear axles, a 4.5-inch Stage 3 long arm lift kit and off-road beadlock wheels. Aesthetic and functional modifications include high-clearance flat fenders, rock rails, front and rear halfdoor kits, a Stinger front bumper, a Warn 9.5ti XP winch, Katzkin leather seats, a locking center console box and a Mopar branded interior.

Jeep Mighty FC Concept

The Jeep Forward Control was built from 1956 to 1965 and offered a clever packaging solution.

It kept overall length at a minimum for maneuverability but maintained a full-length cargo box for utility. For 2012, Jeep has created a modern version of this classic: the Jeep Mighty FC concept.

To create the Jeep Mighty FC concept, the design team started with a 2012 Wrangler Rubicon and repositioned the cabin over and ahead of the front axle, lengthened the wheelbase, and added a custom built drop-side cargo box. The cab utilizes a roof from the Mopar JK-8 conversion kit, as well as a custom designed front clip. The Wrangler-based interior has been enhanced with bold, heavy-duty Katzkin leather and a unique color scheme. The cargo area is handled by a full-width, drop-side tray-style bed that measures more than eight feet in length.

Off-road function is dramatically improved with the addition of Mopar’s new Portal Axle set. These offset axles offer the greatest amount of ground clearance without requiring excessive suspension lift.

Mopar’s Front Portal Axle (8-lug, part number P5155670) is available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $12,500, and the Rear Portal Axle’s (8-lug, part number P5155671) MSRP is $11,000.

The axles are controlled with King coil-over assemblies along with beefy Teraflex control arms and track bars. Traction is handled by massive 40-inch tires mounted on custom Hutchinson 17- inch beadlock wheels.

Other Jeep Mighty FC highlights include King coil-over reservoir shocks, Hanson bumpers, a Warn 16.5 winch and a Corsa stainless steel exhaust system.

Jeep J-12 Concept

The Jeep J-12 concept is essentially an extended version of Mopar’s recently introduced JK-8 pickup conversion kit for the Jeep Wrangler. With a new 2012 Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, the rear of the vehicle’s frame is extended 18 inches, allowing the spare tire to be relocated under the bed floor and making the cargo box a full six feet in length. A custom hood and front fender set was created as a nod to aficionados of the beloved Jeep Gladiator series trucks.

Off-road muscle has been improved with the addition of the new Mopar three-inch suspension lift kit, as well as Teraflex sway bars controlling ARB air-locker equipped Dynatrac D-44 and D-60 axle assemblies. Traction is handled through classic 36-inch tires mounted on 16-inch steel wheels.

The cabin of the J-12 concept has been “dressed down” in support of a basic truck theme, with the carpet being replaced by rugged truck bed liner, and the bucket seats re-crafted into a modern version of a bench seat, trimmed in white with a whimsical plaid pattern.

Further highlights include a Mopar fuel-filler door, Mopar slush mats, Tom Woods custom driveshafts and Katzkin seat trim.

Mopar Accessorized 2012 Jeep Wrangler

Mopar offers more than 250 accessories for the 2012 Jeep Wrangler, and built a vehicle for Moab that showcases many of them.

Mopar created an ultra-capable Jeep, with a Wrangler Rubicon model as the starting point. Off-road enhancements offered through Mopar include a two-inch performance lift kit, 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires mounted on Classic five-hole wheels, front and rear off-road bumpers, a Warn 9.5ti XP winch, Mopar rock rails, Kicker dash 6.5-inch two-way speakers, Mopar all weather mats and more.

Some prototype Mopar accessories debuting on this vehicle are a locking center console box, a rear cargo cubby cover, new windshield-mounted LED lamps, a new hard-top headliner and an “Add-A-Trunk” partition that creates secure storage space in the cargo area.

The Mopar Accessorized 2012 Jeep Wrangler includes Rubicon-standard Dana 44 front and rear axles with electric lockers, which are also available in kit form from Mopar.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Concept

To prepare the Jeep Wrangler Traildozer for Moab’s toughest trails, Jeep Design worked closely with the American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) engineering team to bring it to life. Starting with a new Dozer Yellow 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, the team added a bolt-in 470 horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine mated to a Getrag 238 sixspeed manual transmission. Power runs through Rubicon-specific Dana 44 axles equipped with 4:10 gears and electronic locking differentials.

To clear the 37-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Claw radials mounted on Mopar Classic five-spoke wheels, an AEV Dualsport RS 3.5-inch suspension lift was installed. For severe off-road body protection, Mopar premium front and rear bumpers and rear corner guards were added. Additional items include a Mopar performance heat reduction hood, Mopar half-door kit and a Mopar/Warn 9.5 Cti winch.

Designed to promote the use of Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) and related clean vehicle technologies, the CVRP is a consumer incentive made available in addition to the $2,500 Federal Tax credit¹ offered for qualified vehicles (more information available at: http://www.irs.gov/businesses/article/0,,id=219867,00.html). The 2012 Prius Plug-in also offers consumers eligibility for the State of California’s HOV lane sticker (information found at http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/carpool/carpool.html).

The CVRP program offers rebates to individuals, business owners, non-profit groups, and government entities that purchase or lease new eligible zero-emission or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.  Under this program, the Prius Plug-in is eligible for a $1,500 rebate that will be provided to consumers on a first come first-served basis. These grants are available when a vehicle is either purchased or leased for 36 months or longer. The CVRP is funded by the California Air Resources Board (ARB). Additional information about the CVRP incentive and application resources can be found on the http://cvrp.energycenter.org website.

The first-ever Prius Plug-in Hybrid, combines the benefits of the third-generation Prius Liftback’s Hybrid Synergy Drive with a dedicated electric driving (EV) capability, in a package that is priced more competitively than most currently available plug-in hybrids or pure Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV). The Prius Plug-injoins the Prius Family, which includes the third-generation Prius Liftback, the versatile new Prius v and the all-new subcompact Prius c, which will be available in March of 2012. The Prius Plug-in features a new Lithium-ion battery, which boosts its overall fuel economy and offers convenient charging times of only 2.5-3 hours using a standard 120V outlet or 1.5 hours using 240V.

While in EV Mode, the Prius Plug-in is rated by the EPA to drive up to 11 miles. It’s also capable of traveling up to 62 mph using electric power alone. During EV Mode driving, the Prius Plug-in is rated at 95MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent). In hybrid mode, it has an EPA combined mileage rating of 50 mpg. This means that when the EV Mode is depleted, Prius Plug-in still obtains the same estimated high fuel economy rating as Prius Liftback. With its Lithium-ion power and extended electric vehicle mode, the Prius Plug-in is EPA-rated for a total driving range of 540 miles.

It will be available in two models, the Prius Plug-in and the Prius Plug-in Advanced. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid model comes equipped with an abundance of standard features including LED Daytime Running Lights, Smart Key on three doors, Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™ with integrated backup camera, Touch Tracer Display, heated front seats, Remote Climate (A/C only), EV/ECO/POWER modes, unique15-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, enhanced Multi-information Display and much more.

The Prius Plug-in Advanced model adds additional standard features including Premium HDD Navigation with Entune™ and JBL® GreenEdge™, Plug-in Hybrid Applications through a user’s smartphone (Charge Management, Remote Climate, Vehicle Finder, Charging Station Map², and ECO Dashboard²), Head-up Display, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System, LED headlamps with auto on/off feature and integrated fog lamps, SofTex-trimmed seating, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, Safety Connect and more.

The base MSRP for the Prius Plug-in Hybrid is $32,000. The Prius Plug-in Hybrid Advanced has an MSRP of $39,525.  Both Prius Plug-in models are eligible for up to $4,000 worth of government-supported consumer incentives ($2,500 federal tax credit¹ and $1500 worth of the State of California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Program), in addition to offering eligibility for California’s High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane sticker.

At launch, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid will be available in the following 14 states: California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia.  A national rollout of Prius Plug-in is planned for 2013.

“Regardless of a vehicle’s size, Buick has a standard for what items must fit, from iPods and smartphones, to umbrellas and much larger items like handbags,” said chief engineer Jim Danahy. “With Encore, we used every space available, big or small, in a visually pleasing and useful way.”

Encore offers eight beverage holders, storage in all four doors, four different bins in the dash, pockets in the seatbacks, an available bin beneath the front passenger seat, and even bins under the rear load floor around the spare tire.

This holistic approach maximized traditional cargo space concerns and the ever-growing need to stow small gadgets. Deep pockets in each front door can hold a one-liter beverage, along with a book or tablet computer, plus a smaller item like an iPod or portable video game system like a 3DS.

Because valuable electronics are often left in vehicles, the Encore’s dashboard features multiple spaces that hide such items behind closed doors.

A Bluetooth-connected smartphone can be stored in a small flip-down compartment to the left of the steering wheel, while larger items can be divided between individual upper and lower glove boxes.

Additional storage space for front passengers includes a cubby in front of the gear selector, which houses a 12-volt plug and USB jack. Moving rearward along the console, two cupholders sit ahead of a storage compartment with a retractable lid.

Encore’s rear doors can hold half-liter bottles, while a fold-down rear armrest offers two cupholders and additional storage space.

Buick benchmarked the Encore’s rear cargo space against leading international competitors

With the rear seats in place, there’s space for six large grocery bags or the gear necessary for a quick overnight trip. For longer vacations and more luggage, either or both sides of the 60/40 folding rear seat can be lowered, and the front passenger seat folds flat to handle long boards for a home do-it-yourself project or bulky sports equipment like skis or a surfboard.

Encore also has plenty of room for people and compares favorably to some much larger competitors. Compared to the 2012 Acura RDX and Lexus RX350, respectively, Encore offers 1.2 and 2.0 more inches or rear passenger legroom. It also offers more front and rear headroom than either of those vehicles.

Buick is a modern luxury brand offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive-yet-efficient performance. Buick is attracting new customers with its portfolio of award-winning luxury models, including the Enclave crossover, LaCrosse sedan, Regal sport sedan, Buick Verano sedan and the all-new 2013 Encore crossover.

“We’re very pleased that both the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 2012 Dodge Charger have achieved the highest overall rating,” said Scott Kunselman, Senior Vice President-Engineering, Chrysler Group LLC. “The results of these tests reflect crashworthiness and performance in different scenarios.”

Both Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger achieved an overall 5-star vehicle safety score. The rating is a combination of frontal, side pole and barrier performance with the static stability factor accounting for the rollover rating.

Both Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger also achieved high marks in rollover testing with a 4-star rating.

“These vehicles are comprehensively equipped with advanced safety features,” added Kunselman. “Both vehicles are robustly designed with a rigid structure to protect occupants and have numerous advanced safety features including, available Adaptive Cruise Control which NHSTA notes as a technology proven to reduce crashes.”

The advanced Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a set distance between vehicles when the cruise control is engaged. Other safety and security features on the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger include standard electronic stability control and available blind-spot monitoring.

Earlier this year, the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger were named a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Both the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger are equipped with more than 65 safety and security features, including segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support features to support overall vehicle handling and performance under all weather and pavement conditions.

Safety ratings are just part of the story with both the 2012 Chrysler 300 and 2012 Dodge Charger.

Both vehicles also are equipped with a new 8speed automatic transmission, a first by a domestic automaker. Combined with the award-winning 292 horsepower Pentastar V-6 engine, both vehicles achieve a Best-in-Class EPA-rated 31 miles-per-gallon on the highway. The eight-speed transmission also is available for all-wheel-drive models.

Both Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger also include state-of-the-art Uconnect® navigation and entertainment systems. The Garmin navigation system found in both vehicles recently was recognized by J.D. Power as the top consumer choice for in-vehicle navigation, additionally, Dodge Charger recently received the Breakthrough Technology Award for 2012 from Edmunds.com for the Uconnect driver information system. The award recognizes a vehicle that sets the standard for intuitive, practical and affordable automotive technology.

Kia Red Rock Special Edition Soul

Kia Motors America (KMA) announces the seventh version in a series of unique Soul special editions.

Inspired by the beautiful rock formations found in the Southwest United States, the Red Rock Special Edition Soul!1 adds style, class and unique features inside and out with a starting price of just $20,600².

“The wildly popular Soul has been a game-changer for Kia since it arrived in 2009, and our series of special editions over the past three years have added individualism and exclusivity to an already fun and youthful vehicle,” said Michael Sprague, vice president of marketing and communications, KMA.

“Style and flair are key to Soul’s success, and the Red Rock Special Edition, which has plenty of both, will help drive sales into 2012.”

Unveiled at last year’s New York auto show, the Red Rock Special Edition concept toured the U.S., allowing KMA to gauge consumer reaction. Due to popular demand, the concept has become a reality and is now available at Kia dealerships. The production model includes a number of unique features designed to set it apart from other Soul variants.

Most evident is the lustrous Canyon exterior color. Other Red Rock Special Edition exterior features include high-gloss black front fascia and mirror housings. The interior is adorned with exclusive black leather trim and brown cloth seats.

Standard amenities include automatic climate control and heated front seats, all combining to make the Red Rock Special Edition a truly special Soul!

About the 2012 Soul
Refreshed for the 2012 model year, the Kia Soul has been fine-tuned with a significant number of technological, powertrain and style enhancements.

The 2012 Soul delivers class-leading horsepower³ and significantly improved fuel efficiency of up to 35 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway⁴. Kia Motors’ hatchback remains a class-leading value with the lowest starting price of its competitive set at $13,900 MSRP⁵.

Later this model year, Soul also will be the first among its competitors to offer the fuel-saving ISG technology, which turns off the engine when the vehicle is not in motion, such as at a stop light or in traffic.

Kia Motors is the one of the world’s fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America’s full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality⁶ and the industry’s highest brand loyalty ranking⁷. Kia’s U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company’s two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan⁸. Kia’s value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

¹ Special edition Soul vehicles will have limited availability while supplies last. Vehicles will not be available in all regions. See your local Kia retailer for details.

² MSRP excludes $750 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

³ Class-leading horsepower claim based on comparisons to 2012 compact wagons as of January 2012.

⁴2012 EPA fuel economy estimates for Soul Base 1.6L GDI engine are 27/city and 35/hwy MPG. Actual mileage will vary.

⁵ Class-leading claim based on comparisons to 2012 compact wagons as of January 2012. Starting prices are manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), MSRP excludes $750 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

⁶ Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study

⁷ Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis

⁸ Optima Hybrid is not built at KMMG