Blue Book Briefing
January 2010 - Blue Book Briefing
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· INDUSTRY INSIGHTS – Timely commentary from James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com: REFLECTIONS ON 2009 AND THEMES EMERGING FOR 2010
· LATEST NEWS & BLOGS ON KBB® GREEN – The latest news and blogs posted to KBB Green from the editorial staff of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
· LATEST NEWS STORIES ON KBB.COM – The latest video and written news stories by the editorial staff of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
· NEW-VEHICLE REVIEWS ON KBB.COM – All-new and updated video and written reviews from the editorial staff of Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
· Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com Names Ford Taurus ‘2010 Best Redesigned Vehicle’
· Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com Releases 2010 Residual Value Analysis
· Kelley Blue Book Announces Winners of 2010 Best Resale Value Awards
· Kbb.com Covers Los Angeles Auto Show News Around-the-Clock
Reflections on 2009 and Themes Emerging for 2010
- James Bell, executive market analyst, Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
By the time you read this, you are probably like me and "up to here" with Top 10 lists and the myriad 2009 recaps. Yes, they are somewhat entertaining and pull on nostalgic "heart strings," but based on the mess that was 2009 for many in the auto industry, I think it is best for all of us to project brighter and sunnier days in 2010.
But first, to recap once and for all, here were the biggest issues of 2009:
- Auto sales crashed to around 10 million, the lowest level since the early 1980s, and in terms of overall decline, the sharpest fall since the Great Depression.
- You and I (and our taxpaying friends and neighbors) are now majority stakeholders in General Motors and Chrysler, and now we are looking for good returns on this investment.
- More than 3,000 dealers were cut loose by the aforementioned GM and Chrysler, and while this is a contentious subject, from the view of this observer, this was a necessary evil in order to pull profitability back into the domestic auto industry.
- The competitive U.S. market landscape has been forever changed by the death of Pontiac and Saturn, and the uncertainty of Hummer and (as of this writing) Saab.
- Toyota has learned that being No. 1 is not all that wonderful. I hate to mention this now, but I am on record with several publications and media channels in 2008 with warnings that Toyota might like not enjoy their new place atop the U.S. sales race. After all, it seems to be an unfortunate part of human nature that we reward, applaud and encourage No. 2, but quickly turn our backs when No. 2 becomes No. 1 and look to expose each and every wart and flaw. And, Toyota has been no exception.
The best part of a crazy year like 2009 is that it keeps people like you and I busy. As leaders in this industry, our perspective is more valuable than ever, and our actions are key to the recovery process.
But, what should we make of 2010? From my little outpost, I see three major themes starting to emerge. Now, please do not look for any bold predictions yet on how these are going to play out, but keep these themes in mind as you live through the next 12 months.
- The role of fuel prices. As sorry as I am to report this, the remarkably short memory of U.S. drivers keeps new fuel-efficient vehicles from their rightful place in a majority of driveways. There is an undeniable trait in the U.S. buyer, no doubt fostered by years of previously very wealthy and influential dealers, that the best buy is the one that allows us to drive the most vehicle for the money...not the best or smartest...but the most. Whether that means horsepower, seating or number of cupholders, it always plays the same. The looming 2016 Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations, however, are going to break us of this wasteful habit as the impetus toward efficiency is going to start with the production plans themselves from the manufacturers. It will make lousy business sense for the OEMs to offer vehicles that do not contribute to the new 35.6 MPG fleet standard, so the showroom of the near-future is going to be a very different place. Until that time, watch un-tethered fuel prices for indications of our buying habits.
- The evolution of automotive marketing. Automotive marketing is going to evolve into channels and messages that contribute to the philosophical change noted above. Rather than sex appeal and testosterone, marketing that focuses on rationality and responsibility will triumph. Don't get me wrong - I love smoking tires as much as the next petrol-head. But, we have inadvertently taught the tidal wave of buyers coming from the Millennial demographic strata to sniff out "spin" like a truffle-hunting boar, and they will in turn reward those marketers that approach with fairness and honesty conveyed through both traditional media and communication channels that they demand such as e-mail, online video, Facebook, Twitter and other social media outlets.
- The emergence of more fuel-efficient domestic manufacturer product lines. Much of the success in 2010 for Ford and GM will be tightly bound to a new acceptance and desire for efficiency. I am not permitted to say much now in the way of details in order to honor embargos, but I can assure you that the near-future product plans of GM and Ford are ready to launch with vehicles like the Volt, Spark, Fiesta and all-new Focus and Aveo. Plus, they have a few surprises up their sleeves. If American buyers stay away, the Big Two are in Big Trouble. As for Chrysler, if such smaller cars are embraced, their new affiliation with Fiat positions them for success. However, the fruit of their current labor will not be seen for several perilous years.
I look forward to meeting you here again at the start of 2011 to see how these themes transpired throughout the New Year.
LATEST NEWS & BLOGS ON KBB GREEN:
Check out the very latest news and blog entries by visiting www.kbb.com/green and clicking on News & Blogs.
The following latest news & blogs by kbb.com’s editorial staff went live on the site or were updated during December 2009.
· EPA Formally Classifies Greenhouse Gases as Hazardous Pollutants
· EPA Says Ford Tops in Fuel Economy Gains Over Past Five Years
· Lotus Updates Efficiency Gains on its Flex-Fuel Omnivore Engine
· Mercedes-Benz Updates B-Class F-CELL Status for U.S.
· New Study Sees Li-ion Car Battery Biz Nearing $8 Billion By 2015
· Paris to Host Zero-Emissions Street Race for EV Cars and Motorcycles
· RUF Presents Porsche Cayenne EV at COP15
LATEST NEWS STORIES ON KBB.COM:
Check out the very latest news stories by visiting www.kbb.com and scrolling down to the Latest News & Articles link on the home page.
The following latest news stories by kbb.com’s editorial staff went live on the site or were updated during December 2009.
· BMW VED Concept LA Auto Show Video
· Buick Regal LA Auto Show Video
· Cadillac CTS Coupe LA Auto Show Video
· Chevy Cruze LA Auto Show Video
· Chevy Cruze Walkaround Video LA Auto Show
· Chevy Volt LA Auto Show Interview Video
· Ford Fiesta Euro-spec First Drive Video
· Ford Fiesta LA Auto Show Video
· Honda EV-N Tokyo Auto Show Video
· Honda P-NUT Concept LA Auto Show Video
· Hyundai Sonata LA Auto Show Video
· Infiniti M LA Auto Show Video
· Kia Sorento Interview LA Auto Show Video
· Kia Sorento LA Auto Show Video
· Kia Sorento LA Auto Show Video
· Mazda2 LA Auto Show Interview Video
· Porsche Boxster Spyder LA Auto Show Video
· Porsche Panamera vs Mazdaspeed3 Video
· Toyota Sienna LA Auto Show Video
· VW New Beetle Final Edition LA Auto Show Video
· VW UP Lite LA Auto Show Video
Written Stories Posted to kbb.com:
· 2009 LA Auto Show (via Miami): 2011 Audi A8
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2010 Dodge Viper SRT10
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2010 Hyundai Tucson
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2010 Scion xB Release Series
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2010 Subaru WRX STI Limited Edition
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2010 Toyota Prius Plug-in
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2010 Volkswagen New Beetle Final Edition
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Chevrolet Volt Update
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Ford Fiesta
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Ford Mustang Gets a New V6
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Hyundai Sonata
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Infiniti M
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Mazda Mazda2
· 2009 LA Auto Show: 2011 Toyota Sienna
· 2009 LA Auto Show: Audi A3 Named Green Car of the Year
· 2009 LA Auto Show: Honda P-NUT Design Concept
· 2009 LA Auto Show: Nissan V2G Named Design Challenge Winner
· 2009 LA Auto Show: Volkswagen Up! Lite Concept
· 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show: New Cadillac, Toyota, Concepts and More
· 2010 Camaro SS Will Pace 99th Running of the Indianapolis 500
· 2010 Dodge Viper ACR Shatters Lap Record At Laguna Seca
· 2010 North American Car of the Year Finalists Announced
· 2011 Buick Regal: Straight Outta Germany
· 2011 Volvo C30 Gets New Look and Revised R-Design Package
· All-New 2010 Jaguar XJ Revealed
· Audi Previews New A1 Hatchback
· Audi e-tron Concept Streaks Down Frankfurt's Electric Avenue
· BMW Previews New 5 Series With Dynamic Teaser Video
· Cadillac Unveils Two-door CTS Coupe
· Danica Patrick Adds NASCAR to her 2010 Driving Schedule
· Detroit Preview: 2011 BMW 740i/740Li to Offer Twin-Turbo Six Power
· Detroit Preview: 2011 Ford Mustang GT Gets New 412-HP V8
· Detroit Preview: BMW Concept ActiveE
· Detroit Preview: Volvo Shows Its C30 Battery-Electric Prototype
· Ferrari Builds a Golden One-Off
· First (Virtual) Look: 2011 Infiniti M
· First Drive: 2010 Hyundai Tucson
· First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Hybrid
· First Drive: 2011 Kia Sorento
· First Drive Review: 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT
· First Look: 2010 Lexus GX 460
· First Look: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
· First Look: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo
· First Look: 2011 BMW 5 Series Sedan
· First Look: 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive 35is
· First Look: 2011 Buick Regal
· First Look: 2011 GMC Acadia Denali
· First Look: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible
· First Look: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
· First Look: 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder
· First Look: Aston Martin Cygnet Concept Gets Real
· First Look: Mercedes-Benz 2011 C-Class
· Ford Prices Fiesta, Launches 'Fiesta Movement Chapter Two'
· Ford Sweetens SYNC Feature Set with an Address Book Download App
· GM Can't Sell Saab, Pulls the Plug
· Koenigsegg Pullout Forces GM to Rewrite Its Ultimate Saab Story
· Lexus Previews New Compact Hybrid Concept for European Market
· Lexus Smacks Down Speculators With Lease-Only Deals on LFA
· Mazda2 Coming to America for 2011
· Mercedes Will Build Next-Gen C-Class in the U.S.
· Mini Beachcomber Concept Ready to Kick Sand in Detroit
· Mini Roadster Concept to Join New Coupe in 2011 Lineup
· Mitsubishi Shows Crossover, Confirms Small Car Coming to U.S.
· Mitsubishi Will Plug(-in) its Concept PX-MiEV at Tokyo Auto Show
· New KBB Study Finds Used Car Market Values Could Be Heading Up
· Nissan Will Offer Low-Cost Navi Option for 2010 Sentra and Versa
· Raging Ragtop: Audi Unleashes R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI Quattro
· Subaru Reveals 2010 Impreza WRX STI Special Edition
· Subaru Will Show Hybrid Tourer Concept in Tokyo
· Suzuki Puts $100 on the Line in 'Kizashi Test Drive Challenge'
· Toyota Teases New Dedicated Hybrid, Confirms Plug-in Prius for 2012
· VW Will Buy Nearly 20 Percent of Suzuki Motors
NEW-VEHICLE REVIEWS ON KBB.COM - WRITTEN:
The following new-vehicle reviews written by kbb.com’s editorial staff went live on the site or were updated during December 2009. To see any new-vehicle review from kbb.com’s editorial staff, please visit www.kbb.com and click on the News and Reviews tab, then select the make and model.
We don't just like the idea of the premium compact crossover, we like most of those in the segment. From the agile and boldly styled BMW X3 to the larger, softer, best-selling Lexus RX 350, the category offers something good for everyone. But we never had a clear favorite until we drove the Audi Q5…
While some premium roadster drivers are serious about power, handling and feel, a good many are more interested in style and fresh-air fun. In a segment that includes the Porsche Boxster, Mercedes-Benz SLK and Audi TT, no car can appeal to both camps more so than the latest Z4. Inside, outside and underneath, the Z4 has the makings of one of the all-time great roadsters…
Cadillac has pursued a decade-long effort to elevate its products and image to compete head-to-head with top luxury imports. The first production vehicle resulting from this effort, the 2002 CTS Sedan, was followed by the XLR Roadster and the SRX luxury crossover utility vehicle (CUV). The first SRX was a credible attempt to blend Cadillac's aggressive new "art and science" styling with minivan utility, sport-sedan dynamics and SUV image and off-road capability. But, while the CTS was a hit, the SRX never quite caught on. It was too big, too heavy, and too fuel- and space-inefficient versus the segment leader Lexus RX, as well as several others. Now, for 2010, comes an all-new second-generation SRX, on a new front-drive platform and with better space efficiency and more fuel-efficient performance…
Cadillac's evolution from a builder of cushy luxo-barges to world-class touring sedans is now complete, and nowhere is this transformation more evident than with the 2010 Cadillac STS. Along with the CTS, the STS has the mission of putting Cadillac back on the world's radar screen, and if ever there was a Cadillac that could lure younger buyers from their love affairs with Lexus and BMW, it's the STS. With a choice of V6 or V8 engines, rear-wheel or all-wheel drive and enough sophisticated electronics to please the most demanding technophile, about the only thing lacking from this car is a manual transmission, a feature some enthusiasts may desire…
2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport
Once hailed as America's only true two-seat sports car, the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette continues to offer driving enthusiasts the most bang for the buck, running neck-and-neck (and in some cases surpassing) exotic cars costing up to four times as much – or even more. No where else but in America can you find a two-seat sports car costing roughly $50,000 and delivering 430 horsepower while returning an EPA highway fuel economy figure of 26 miles per gallon. Although not as light or nimble as the Porsche 911, the Corvette's optional Z51 Performance Package renders it track-ready, while the car's luxurious interior and comfortable ride make it perfect for daily commutes or long weekend getaways. For those willing to spend a lot more, there's the 505 horsepower Z06, and the Supercar status ZR1…
The 2010 Chrysler 300 sedan has succeeded where many of its domestic rivals have not. While it's true that Americans have flocked to the 300 chiefly because of its bold styling, the 300 provides a roomy interior, impressive ride and handling, the availability of the well-known HEMI V8 engine and the option of all-wheel drive. The 300 benefited greatly from the now-defunct merger between Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler by receiving a number of German-engineered components, including its rear suspension and five-speed automatic transmission. One might think with so much premium content added to the mix that the 300's price tag would also surge, but V6 models start well below $30,000. Thanks to the 300's popularity among the tuner crowd, there are plenty of aftermarket parts, allowing owners to customize their cars to their hearts' content…
Who says you have to be filthy rich to enjoy the finer things in life? From our standpoint, you need only about $50,000 and a driver's license. Those two commodities will put you behind the wheel of a 2010 Chrysler 300C SRT8, arguably the most potent performance sedan ever to leave a domestic factory's doors. Developed by Chrysler's in-house Street and Racing Technology team, the 300C SRT8 takes all that is good about the stock 300C and ratchets it up to the top of the scale. Big, bold and in-your-face, the 300C SRT8 has the HEMI power, performance and panache to break up the European sport-sedan monopoly, and does it for tens of thousands less…
According to Dodge, the Nitro marked the automaker's first foray into the mid-size SUV segment. Just like its Durango big brother, however, the 2010 Dodge Nitro straddles a line between two segments, competing on some levels with vehicles from both the compact and mid-size SUV categories. It even somewhat threatens to cannibalize sales from the recently introduced Journey, although the Nitro can't match the Journey's fuel economy or seating capacity numbers. The Nitro's niche in the marketplace isn't defined by its measurements, though, but by its bold, unique styling…
Even though full-size pickup truck sales have dipped in the recent past, they still represent a substantial part of the automotive market. Fresh from a successful redesign last year, Dodge is hoping its Ram pickup can continue to cut into the sales of the Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado and help return Chrysler to profitability. To accomplish this goal, Dodge has given the Ram a crew-cab body style, a coil-spring rear suspension, a refined interior, unique storage options and more available power with an upgraded HEMI V8. The result is a smooth, quiet pickup that is easily a match for anything in its class…
The 2010 Honda Accord Sedan is a car that needs no introduction; the popular four-door has been a mainstay of the mid-size market for years. However, the Accord Coupe is a different story. Here is a Honda that many people couldn't pick out of a lineup. Though unknown to many (and sure to undersell the sedan by a considerable margin), its availability offers buyers more choice in the form of a two-door alternative to the familiar Sedan. The Coupe shows Honda's sporty side and competes in a narrow segment that includes the 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe and the sporty Hyundai Genesis Coupe…
The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour is the latest addition to the growing not-quite-a-wagon-but-not-quite-a-crossover segment. Sharing skeletal structures with the Accord Sedan, the Crosstour provides a viable solution for those who like everything about its hatch-less sibling, but want more cargo room, additional utility and a higher seating position. Competitors for the Crosstour include the wagon-esque Toyota Venza and the more crossover-like Nissan Murano, Ford Edge and Mazda CX-7…
While the Honda Accord-versus-Toyota Camry debate hasn't sparked nearly as many family feuds or bar-room brawls as Ford vs. Chevy, Coke vs. Pepsi or Mac vs. PC, it is nevertheless one of consumerism's biggest rivalries. Their continuous run as the two of the best-selling cars in America extends back to the second millennium, and they combine to account for roughly 40 percent of sales in a segment that numbers about 20 nameplates. As American, Korean and other Japanese manufacturers continue to roll out worthier and worthier competitors, however, choosing the right mid-size sedan is no longer as straightforward as flipping a coin…
As Honda's best-known and best-loved car line, the 2010 Civic Sedan and Coupe continue to set the bar in the compact-car arena. Long considered the standard by which all other compacts are measured, the Civic is able to lure buyers thanks to its impressive fuel economy, unrivaled reliability and repair history and class-leading resale values. Once considered the Civic's only weak point, exterior styling is now one of the car's most appealing attributes. With its sharply raked windshield and low profile, the sleek Civic Coupe looks like nothing else on the road. The car's appeal to younger drivers has put Honda back into the good graces of the tuner and aftermarket crowd…
Honda continues to make into reality what other manufacturers only talk about. Take, for example, the Civic Hybrid. It's a car that employs a small gasoline engine assisted by an electric motor that can, under certain low-speed situations, become the car's sole powerplant. Urban commuters will find the 2010 Honda Civic Hybrid superior to its gasoline counterpart because it delivers extremely frugal city and highway fuel economy while producing minimal greenhouse emissions. Unlike the Toyota Prius, which assumes a functional but futuristic appearance, the Civic Hybrid closely mirrors the popular Civic Sedan, with only a few minor exterior and interior changes to differentiate the two cars…
Next to the ever-present Volkswagen GTI, the Honda Civic Si is the most resilient pocket rocket this country has ever seen. Offered as both a Coupe and Sedan, the 2010 Honda Civic Si still qualifies as economical, practical and fun – three key characteristics that defined the first hatchback model in 1986. While practicality takes a considerable hit in the transformation from hatchback to trunk, the loss is more than offset by an exponential increase in performance. This isn't just the best Civic Si ever; it's arguably one of the best econo-rockets of all time…
If there's a single vehicle that distinguishes the new Hyundai from the old, it's the current-generation Sonata Sedan. The redesigned Sonata debuted for the 2006 model year with relevant styling, class-competitive powertrains and a new feeling of refinement, along with every bit of the price-feature value that once was Hyundai's sole reason for being. Over the next couple years, though, the Sonata would begin losing ground in the segment as many of its best-selling competitors underwent complete redesigns. The Sedan's passenger cabin became the greatest area of need, having been left far behind the competition in both styling and features. Last year's update carries over to the 2010 model and is meant to hold customers attention until the debut of the all-new and much sleeker 2011 Sonata…
The 2010 Infiniti M distinctively blends sport, luxury and performance characteristics with V6 or V8 power. Although an all-new model is due out in 2011, the 2010 M35 and M45 continue to cruise through the crowded luxury field, bypassing more expensive sedans from Japan, Europe and America. The M series offers a choice of rear-drive or all-wheel drive and a number of cutting-edge features such as a Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. Rated by the EPA as a full-size sedan, with interior space that nearly matches an Audi A8, BMW 7 Series and Mercedes S-Class, the Infiniti M is priced closer to the smaller Audi A6, BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class counterparts – along with key Japanese mid-size rivals like the Acura RL and Lexus GS and the lone American entrant, the Cadillac STS. The Infiniti M's high-value and high-content formula is further reinforced by excellent reliability and strong customer satisfaction ratings…
Jeep purists never got over the loss of the original Cherokee, so it's no surprise the 2010 Jeep Commander bears a striking resemblance to the former's beloved and boxy design. Unlike the old Cherokee, the Commander offers far better interior accommodations, including a third-row seat. The Commander is Jeep's largest SUV to date and, although it shares much of its chassis and suspension with the Grand Cherokee (as well as the availability of a HEMI V8 engine), no one will ever mistake the two. While the Commander doesn't offer the same cargo space as a full-sized Chevrolet Tahoe or Ford Expedition, it should suit most families looking for a workable combination of comfort, power and superior off-road ability…
Die-hard Jeep fans may have worried that the redesigned Jeep Liberty would go soft in an attempt to appeal to a wider audience, but that didn't happen. Last year's complete makeover saw the Liberty become more civilized, thanks to a long list of features, improved ride and handling and better fuel economy. At the same time, a pair of very capable four-wheel drive systems, a highly functional interior and a more rugged styling theme allow the Liberty to retain its off-road roots. While it's difficult to meet the various needs of modern SUV buyers, Jeep fans can rest easy knowing the redesigned Liberty still embodies all that the Jeep brand has come to represent…
Based on the same platform, the 2010 Jeep Patriot and Compass have similar measurements, similar price ranges and offer almost identical sets of comfort and convenience features. So why would Jeep produce such similar vehicles? Well, the Compass is intended as an asphalt-tuned ride for city slickers, while the Patriot adheres more closely to traditional Jeep principles. Indeed, the Patriot's more rugged suspension and powertrain options deliver enough off-road performance for it to earn Jeep's "Trail Rated" badges…
The 66-year history of what has become America's definitive off-roader – and an icon on the level of national treasures such as the Corvette and Mustang – began with a run of nearly 650,000 units built for use during the last world war. Distributed strictly for civilian enjoyment today, Jeep claims the percentage of Wrangler owners who take their vehicles off road is higher than that of any other brand. A short wheelbase, solid front and rear axles and renowned all-wheel-drive systems combine in a perennial favorite of rock crawlers, mudders and light off-roaders alike. The longest, widest and most livable design to date, the 2010 Jeep Wrangler continues to enjoy a wide and deeply loyal audience…
The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are the co-captains of the compact sedan segment. Refined over several decades and many generations, they've been the two best-selling cars in the category for what seems like forever. But today there are more viable alternatives than ever, and one of the very latest is the 2010 Kia Forte. More than a replacement for the Kia Spectra, the stylish and solid Forte represents a giant leap for Kia as an automaker. The lineup started with a sedan, continued with a coupe and should eventually grow to include a wagon…
With the arrival of the 2010 Kia Soul and 2009 Nissan Cube, the original Scion xB becomes the progenitor of a bona fide little sub-segment defined by funky practicality. Surely, there's a good chance the Soul and Cube wouldn't be here today - in this country, anyway - if not for the success of the original box on wheels. While the Nissan Cube is more reminiscent of the smaller, first-generation xB, the Kia Soul is a more direct competitor to the latest xB. Does the Soul's mix of style, value and technology make it the right choice for you? Keep reading to find out…
Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Names Most-Researched New Vehicles for 2009, Brands with Greatest Share of Market Interest This Year
Chevy Equinox and Camaro, Ford Fusion, Lexus RX 350 Jump into 2009's Top 20 Most-Researched New Cars
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 29 -- Kelley Blue Book, the leading provider of new and used car information, today announces the most-researched new vehicles of 2009 on the company's top-rated Web site, www.kbb.com. In addition, Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com reveals the top five brands with the greatest share of market interest for 2009.
This year marks the fourth consecutive year that Kelley Blue Book saw increased visitation to its Web site, with nearly 180 million visits to kbb.com in 2009. Because kbb.com is one of the most-trafficked automotive research sites, visitation to specific vehicles has become a leading indicator of sales patterns for manufacturers.
Kbb.com's Top 20 Most-Researched New Vehicles of 2009
1. Honda Accord
2. Honda Civic
3. Toyota Camry
4. Honda CR-V
5. Toyota Corolla
6. Toyota RAV4
7. Toyota Highlander
8. Toyota Prius
9. Nissan Altima
10. Honda Pilot
11. Ford Escape
12. Chevrolet Camaro
13. Honda Odyssey
14. Ford Fusion
15. Mazda3
16. Ford Mustang
17. Volkswagen Jetta
18. Toyota Sienna
19. Lexus RX 350
20. Chevrolet Equinox
The Honda Civic, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry (in varying orders each year) have been the top three most-researched new-vehicles on kbb.com each year since 2004. However, many vehicles made noteworthy jumps into the top 20 most-researched new-vehicles for 2009 that were not on the list in 2008. Chevrolet's all-new redesigned Equinox and Camaro models both grace this year's list for the first time. Also new to this year's top 20 are the recently revamped Lexus RX 350 and the popular, fast-selling Ford Fusion.
The stabilization in gas prices for 2009 has indicated a trend away from smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles over the past year, and thus some popular small cars that were among the most-researched in 2008 have fallen off the list for 2009. Subcompact cars like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit, along with the compact MINI Cooper, were among the most-researched new cars last year, but do not hold court among the most-researched models this year. In addition, Chevy's Malibu, redesigned for the 2008 model-year and featured on last year's 'most-researched' list, has seen some of its popularity fade over the past year, no longer listing among the top 20 most-researched new cars of 2009.
"The site traffic on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com demonstrates what is on the minds of today's new-car shoppers, especially when examining the most-researched new-vehicles of 2009," said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "Declined interest in smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles and increased popularity in attractive, recently redesigned models is an accurate reflection of the marketplace in 2009. We also see that consumers are reacting well to new models and redesigns from domestic manufacturers like Chevy and Ford, which bodes well for their future sales numbers."
Top Five Brands with Greatest Share of Market Interest on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com for 2009
1. Toyota
2. Honda
3. Ford
4. Chevrolet
5. Nissan
Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet and Nissan (respectively) are the top five brands with the highest share of market interest -- defined as the percent of new-car shopper activity for a particular brand -- on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com for 2009. Of those brands, Ford saw the most growth throughout the course of the year, with its share rising steadily in the first half of the year and peaking during the summer months, benefitting as the only domestic manufacturer that did not require a bailout or undergo bankruptcy. Ford also benefitted from the "Cash-for-Clunkers" program during the summer of 2009, due to its aggressive promotion of the program.
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Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Names Ford Taurus '2010 Best Redesigned Vehicle'
Editors of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Commend 2010 Ford Taurus' Modern Interior, Performance
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 11 -- The expert editors at Kelley Blue Book's www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new and used car information, today announces the 2010 Ford Taurus has been named 2010 Best Redesigned Vehicle. The kbb.com editors praise the 2010 Ford Taurus sedan for its sculpted sheet metal, modern interior and long list of available technologies, standing in stark contrast not just to its predecessor, but its competitors, too. Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com Best Redesigned Vehicle for 2010 marks a second consecutive win for Ford. Last year, Ford's flagship pickup, the F-150, was awarded the 2009 Best Redesigned Vehicle accolade.
"The 2010 Ford Taurus delivers an ideal balance of engaging performance and passenger comfort, as well as a feeling of quality that positively pervades the vehicle," said Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "With its impressive set of standard and available technologies, the Taurus adds convenience, connectivity, safety and value to the consumer."
The 2010 Ford Taurus offers features such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert, MyKey™ parental programmability, Ford SYNC® and Voice-Activated Navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link™.
Few products reflect the accelerating pace of change more than the automobile. Whereas many of yesterday's new models were not much more than styling updates, today's redesigns are more often leaps and bounds ahead of their predecessors in every way. Accordingly, it takes an exceptional product to be named Kelley Blue Book's Best Redesigned Vehicle.
"With its superior styling and overall performance, the 2010 Ford Taurus became a contender for this year's award during the very first drive, after which one of our editors wrote 'We haven't seen such a bold reversal of character since Ben Kingsley traded in his Ghandi robe to play a murderous gangster in Sexy Beast,'" said Nerad. "The Taurus isn't just the new best bet in the segment; it's one of the most impressive vehicles on the road."
The Best Redesigned Vehicle accolade honors the vehicle that best demonstrates improvement and superiority relative to its predecessor and competitors. In judging, the kbb.com editors consider exterior and interior styling, technology, comfort and convenience features, performance/capability, driving dynamics, safety, fuel economy, overall refinement and, of course, value.
Dozens of vehicles were redesigned for the 2010 model-year. In addition to the award-winning 2010 Ford Taurus, rounding out the top 10 finalists for kbb.com's 2010 Best Redesigned Vehicle were (in alphabetical order) the Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac SRX, Chevy Equinox, Ford Fusion, Lexus RX, Mazda MAZDA3, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Subaru Legacy and Toyota Prius.
Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com: "Best Redesigned Vehicle" History
2004 Ford F-150
2005 Ford Mustang
2006 Honda Civic
2007 Chevrolet Silverado
2008 Chevrolet Malibu
2009 Ford F-150
2010 Ford Taurus
The year 2010 marks the fourth time in seven years that a Ford model has taken the Best Redesigned Vehicle title and is the second consecutive year Ford earned top honors. Honda broke Ford's initial streak in 2006 with the redesigned Civic coupe and sedan, and Chevrolet won back-to-back in 2007 and 2008 with the Silverado full-size pickup and Malibu sedan, respectively.
"Each model year, manufacturers continually raise the bar in providing consumers with the top notch vehicle technologies, performance and design," said Nerad. "With the Best Redesigned Vehicle award, we honor those models that exceed all expectations."
Vehicles usually are redesigned every four to five years, although some brands wait longer to redesign their models. For more information about the 2010 Best Redesigned Vehicle and the top 10 finalists, visit www.kbb.com/best2010redesign.
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Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com® Releases 2010 Residual Value Analysis
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 2 -- Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com, the leading provider of vehicle values and forecasts, today announces the 2010 model-year vehicles projected to retain the greatest amount of their original retail prices after five years of ownership. Kelley Blue Book's residual values are a reflection of current vehicle data, market conditions for each vehicle, competition in each segment, expectations of the future economy and the combined experience of Kelley Blue Book's team of statisticians, economists and pricing analysts.
Using information gained from Kelley Blue Book's analytical and predictive models for both new- and used-vehicle values and its economic forecasts, the company determined one overall brand and one luxury brand as having the best projected overall resale value across their respective 2010 fleets, named resale value leaders in 16 major vehicle segments, and honored the top 10 overall residual value leaders for 2010.
"For the last several years, the average vehicle has maintained close to 35 percent of its original value after five years," said Eric Ibara, director, residual consulting, Kelley Blue Book. "Consumers are feeling the pinch not just in the depreciation of their home, but also in the value of their vehicle, as we are seeing residual values of new cars suffer compared to last year."
In 2009, the average vehicle maintained 34.2 percent of its original value after five years in contrast to 2010 models, which are projected to maintain an average of 32.6 percent of their original Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP).
The last 18 months have been extremely volatile from both a sales and valuation perspective. However, based on Kelley Blue Book's latest valuation methodology and forecasting abilities, the company's analysts are projecting that the New Year should mark a return to more normal depreciation patterns. Additionally, it is expected that lower rental-car volume will contribute to a more limited supply of used cars, which may result in rising values in some segments in the coming years.
While the government took its time declaring the nationwide recession, it has been quick to announce that economically, we have turned the corner. As data shows a healthier economy in 2010, Kelley Blue Book analysts expect that recovery in the auto industry will be gradual and prolonged. One factor helping the industry is stabilizing gas prices. Kelley Blue Book is forecasting that gas prices will be stable through the next three to five years, with per-gallon prices remaining between $2.66 and $3.50. This predicted long-term stability in fuel prices reduces market variability and allows financial institutions to better manage their portfolios.
The 2010 Kelley Blue Book residual forecast looks at year-over-year changes from 2009 to 2010 models, and the market indicators for the change in their 60-month forecasted values.
Kelley Blue Book's 2010 Residual Analysis Report Includes:
- Best Residual Value Brands 2009 vs. 2010
- Best Residual Value Vehicles
- A look at the residuals of the compact and fuel-efficient vehicle market
- Residual forecasts for hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles
- Residuals of the 'Detroit Three'
- Vehicles with low residual values
For more information about Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Awards, please visit www.kbb.com/BRVA2010. The full residual analysis report is available upon request by sending an e-mail with your name, title, company name and phone number and to pr@kbb.com.
About Kelley Blue Book® Residual Values
Based on projections by Kelley Blue Book's expert staff of market analysts encapsulated in the Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide, the prestigious Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their retail prices after five years of ownership. Low-volume vehicles and vehicles with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of more than $60,000 are excluded from awards consideration, except in the High Performance and Luxury categories.
While the company's Official Residual Value Guide has been published since 1981, Kelley Blue Book established its annual Best Resale Value Awards in 2003. Kelley Blue Book reports projections based on current vehicle data, sales data, market conditions for each vehicle, competition within vehicle segments, expectations of the future economy and the combined experience of Kelley Blue Book's team of market and pricing analysts. Kelley Blue Book's residual values are used by banks, financial institutions, governmental agencies and the automotive leasing industry.
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Kelley Blue Book Announces Winners of 2010 Best Resale Value Awards
To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/kbb/40502/
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 2 -- Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new- and used-vehicle information, announces the all-new 2010 model-year vehicle winners of its annual Best Resale Value Awards, www.kbb.com/BRVA2010 which recognize current and forthcoming vehicles for their projected retained value five years from now. Since depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car-buyer's primary expense during ownership, these awards, like all of kbb.com's new- and used-vehicle information, are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions.
Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book® Official Residual Value Guide determined by an expert staff of automotive analysts. These prestigious awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original list price after five years of ownership. Low-volume vehicles and vehicles with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of more than $60,000 are excluded from award consideration, except in the luxury and high-performance categories.
2010 BEST RESALE VALUE: BRAND
Toyota
2010 BEST RESALE VALUE: LUXURY BRAND
Lexus
2010 BEST RESALE VALUE: BY VEHICLE CATEGORY
MID-SIZE PICKUP: HIGH-PERFORMANCE CAR:
Toyota Tacoma Chevrolet Camaro SS
FULL-SIZE PICKUP: HYBRID/ALT. FUEL CAR:
Ford F-Series Super Duty Toyota Prius
COMPACT UTILITY VEHICLE: COMPACT CAR:
Honda CR-V MINI Cooper Clubman
MID-SIZE UTILITY VEHICLE: MID-SIZE CAR:
Toyota Highlander Honda Accord
FULL-SIZE UTILITY VEHICLE: FULL-SIZE CAR:
Honda Pilot Ford Taurus
LUXURY UTILITY VEHICLE: NEAR-LUXURY CAR:
Lexus RX 350 Lexus IS
HYBRID/ALT. FUEL UTILITY VEHICLE: LUXURY CAR:
BMW X5 Turbo Diesel Audi A5
VAN: SPORTS CAR:
Toyota Sienna Nissan 370Z
2010 BEST RESALE VALUE: TOP 10 MODELS
Audi A5 MINI Cooper
BMW M3 MINI Cooper Clubman
Chevrolet Camaro SS Toyota Prius
Chevrolet Corvette Toyota RAV4
Honda CR-V Toyota Tacoma
(All values based on the November/December 2009 Kelley Blue Book Residual Value Guide. Top 10 models appear in alphabetical order).
While most car buyers today consider sticker price one of the most significant numbers when choosing a new vehicle, the editors at Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com recommend that shoppers consider a number they won't find on any window sticker: its resale value.
Depreciation often is the greatest expense incurred by drivers during the first five years of vehicle ownership. An average vehicle will only retain about 35 percent of its original value after a five-year ownership period, meaning that a $50,000 new car today will only be worth somewhere close to $17,500 after five years. Vehicles with average or below-average resale values are generally plentiful in the marketplace and easy to find. But certain vehicles are projected to hold their value better than others. While much of a vehicle's resale value is based on supply and demand as well as current and projected future market conditions, vehicles that maintain their value best are rarely heavily discounted and tend to generate consumer enthusiasm.
"Especially in today's difficult economy, when every penny counts for the typical American shopper, consumers should take a good look at the projected resale value of a car when choosing their next new-vehicle purchase," said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "Vehicle depreciation is a new-car buyer's biggest expense, yet many shoppers don't realize that resale value information is available for free on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. Taking the time to research and choose vehicle makes, models and options wisely now can help new-car shoppers keep additional money in their pocket down the road when they go to sell or trade-in the vehicle."
Vehicle shoppers should take several factors into consideration when buying a new car to ensure as much future value as possible. Just because a car is expensive or from a luxury brand does not necessarily mean it will hold its value better than an inexpensive car down the road. In fact, because resale values are calculated as a percent of original list price, an expensive vehicle has to command a relatively high price later as a used car to maintain its residual value. For example, an $80,000 vehicle has to be worth $24,000 three years later to have a residual value of 30 percent. Meanwhile, a $12,000 vehicle only needs to be worth $3,600 to have the same 30 percent residual value.
In addition, most options and packages added to a vehicle do not necessarily increase its resale value. However, there are exceptions to the rule, such as a navigation system in a luxury vehicle or a performance package in a sports car. Finally, regional preferences can significantly impact the value of a vehicle. In the colder sections of the country, a two-wheel drive vehicle's resale value will not be as high as a four-wheel or all-wheel drive option of that same model. At the other end of the thermometer, in warmer climates black (or dark-colored) cars will not have as high resale value as light-colored cars, which tend to be in greater demand in those regions.
While the company's Residual Value Guide has been published since 1981, Kelley Blue Book established its annual Best Resale Value Awards in 2003. Kelley Blue Book reports projections based on current vehicle data, sales data, market conditions for each vehicle, competition within vehicle segments, expectations of the future economy and the combined experience of Kelley Blue Book's team of market and pricing analysts. Values reflect projected future auction values for vehicles in average condition with 75,000 miles at the end of a five-year lease or ownership period. Kelley Blue Book's residual values are used by manufacturers, banks, financial institutions, governmental agencies and the automotive leasing industry.
For more information about Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Awards, please visit www.kbb.com/BRVA2010.
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Kbb.com Covers Los Angeles Auto Show News Around-the-Clock
IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 1 -- Kelley Blue Book, www.kbb.com, the leading provider of new- and used-car information, will have complete coverage of the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show during the show's media preview days December 2 and 3. Auto enthusiasts and those looking for the latest new-vehicle information can check the Auto Shows section, http://www.kbb.com/auto-show where consumers can access the Los Angeles Auto Show floor before the general public.
News and interviews from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com will be continually updated on the company's Web site, Twitter, on Kelley Blue Book's YouTube channel, which will be completely taken over by the company's editorial staff both days. Accessing any of these sites, viewers will find the latest in automotive news, videos and status updates as they happen, and get a sneak peek into the future products coming out of the auto industry.
"We will deliver around-the-clock reporting directly from the auto show floor to give our audience a firsthand look at what to expect from the ever-changing automotive industry in the coming months and years," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "From world debuts to the latest in concept, production, and hybrid and other eco-friendly vehicles, we will be there to cover and share it all."
It is expected that many auto manufacturers will feature world debuts during the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show, including the 2011 Mazda MAZDA2 and 2011 Lexus LFA, as well as the 2011 Infiniti M, 2011 Buick Regal, 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe and the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder, as well as concepts like the Audi e-tron Electric R and the Lexus LF-Ch Premium Compact Hybrid.
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KELLEY BLUE BOOK PUBLIC RELATIONS CONTACTS:
Robyn Eckard
Director of Public Relations
949-268-3049
Joanna McNally
Senior Public Relations Manager
949-268-3079
Brenna Robinson
Public Relations Manager
949-267-4781
Rebekah King
Consumer Communications Manager
949-267-4982
About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)
Since 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, has provided vehicle buyers and sellers with the new and used vehicle information they need to accomplish their goals with confidence. The company’s top-rated Web site, www.kbb.com, provides the most up-to-date pricing and values, including the New Car Blue Book® Value, which reveals what people actually are paying for new cars. The company also reports vehicle pricing and values via products and services, including software products and the famous Blue Book® Official Guide. According to the C.A. Walker Research Solutions, Inc. – 2009 Spring Automotive Web Site Usefulness Study, kbb.com is the most useful automotive information Web site among new and used vehicle shoppers, and half of online vehicle shoppers visit kbb.com. Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com also is a W3 Gold Award winner, sanctioned by the International Academy of Visual Arts. Kbb.com is a leading provider of new car prices, car reviews and news, used car Blue Book Values, auto classifieds and car dealer locations. No other medium reaches more in-market vehicle shoppers than kbb.com.
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