Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler piles on even more incentives ahead of the holidays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-chrysler-piles-on-even-more-incentives-ahead-of-the-holi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-chrysler-piles-on-even-more-incentives-ahead-of-the-holi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/report-chrysler-piles-on-even-more-incentives-ahead-of-the-holi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In an effort to spur lagging sales, Chrysler has reportedly cranked up incentive spending on nearly all of its models by $1,000 to $1,500 while also offering 0% financing on many of its models. Chrysler is also said to be offering lease incentives of $500 to $1,000 on minivan leases and financing deals on leftover 2008 and 2009 Dodge Vipers.

The move towards additional rebates comes as incentive spending has been down for crosstown rivals General Motors and Ford. And Chrysler was already spending more on incentives than the industry at large - Edmunds says the typical Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep sold had $3,219 on the hood versus an industry average of $2,486. Chrysler is in a tougher position than its Detroit contemporaries, because the Auburn Hills, MI-based automaker has seen its sales slide by 39% on the year - more than any other major player in the U.S. market. One thing Chrysler does have going for it is that dealer inventory is largely in check and Automotive News is reporting that 88% of its vehicles are 2010 models.

Chrysler's latest round of incentives is good now through January 4, 2010.

[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd | Image: Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: Chrysler piles on even more incentives ahead of the holidays originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingCarBuyingchryslerchrysler incentivesChryslerIncentivesdodgeincentive spendingincentivesIncentiveSpendingjeeprebatesMon, 23 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Looking for $10k off on a Lexus or Caddy? High-priced hybrids reportedly getting hefty incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/bargain-bin-high-priced-hybrids-getting-hefty-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/bargain-bin-high-priced-hybrids-getting-hefty-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/bargain-bin-high-priced-hybrids-getting-hefty-incentives/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2009 Lexus LS 600h L Pebble Beach Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Surprise! Lexus and its parent company, Toyota, are apparently finding that it's not as easy selling $106,000 hybrids as it is for $25,000. The Lexus LS 600h L is certainly an excellent piece of automotive engineering, delivering gobs of horsepower and torque with at least a modicum of efficiency thrown in for good measure.

Still, sales of the LS range are down over 50%, leading the the Japanese auto giant to place a whopping $10,000 cash incentive on its range-topping hybrid model. Moving down the Lexus lineup a notch will net you a $3,000 incentive on the GS 450h. What's more, Edmunds' Auto Observer reports that the company is throwing another $1,000 at any Lexus sales associate that manages to sell one of its pricey hybrids.

Not into expensive hybrid sedans? How 'bout we move to the opposite end of the fuel-saving market and into the driver's seat of a 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. Signing on the dotted line for General Motors' top-of-the-line 2Mode hybrid 'ute will cost you from about $73,000 to over $87,000... minus a five-digit discount, of course. Such a deal!


Gallery: 2009 Pebble Beach Edition LS 600h L


[Source: Auto Observer]

Looking for $10k off on a Lexus or Caddy? High-priced hybrids reportedly getting hefty incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac escaladecadillac escalade hybridCadillacEscaladeCadillacEscaladeHybridcar buying incentivescar incentivesCarBuyingIncentivesCarIncentivescash on the hoodCashOnTheHoodescaladeescalade hybridEscaladeHybridhybridhybrid incentivehybrid incentivesHybridIncentiveHybridIncentivesincentiveslexuslexus ls 600hlexus ls 600h lLexusLs600hLexusLs600hLls 600hls 600h lLs600hLs600hLMon, 05 Oct 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota increases 2009-2010 global sales forecast by 3%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/report-toyota-increases-2009-2010-global-sales-forecast-by-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/report-toyota-increases-2009-2010-global-sales-forecast-by-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/28/report-toyota-increases-2009-2010-global-sales-forecast-by-3/#commentsFiled under: ,



There have been subtle signs that demand for new cars and trucks are improving. Several automakers plan to increase production over the next few months, and Toyota is no different. Reuters is reporting that the World's Largest Automaker has raised its sales forecast by 3% to 6.7 million units for the year ending March 2010. Toyota is also reportedly looking to increase production by a not-so-subtle 8% to a total of 6.45 million units. Toyota is neither confirming or denying the report, which originated in the Tokyo Shimbun daily.

Some of the reasons cited for the increased forecast and production center around incentives from governments all over the world. Here in the States, Cash for Clunkers payed a big role in Toyota's sales increase, while low emissions vehicle subsidies of up to $2,800 by the Japanese government has helped spur sales in the automaker's home market.

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Toyota increases 2009-2010 global sales forecast by 3% originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cash for clunkersCashForClunkersincentivesjapansales forecastSalesForecasttoyotatoyota 2009 salestoyota productiontoyota salestoyota sales forecastToyota2009SalesToyotaProductionToyotaSalesToyotaSalesForecastMon, 28 Sep 2009 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/audi-throws-another-1-000-onto-c4c-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/audi-throws-another-1-000-onto-c4c-incentives/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/06/audi-throws-another-1-000-onto-c4c-incentives/#commentsFiled under: ,



The government, dealers and consumers don't seem to know exactly what's going on with the C.A.R.S. (Cash for Clunkers) program, but Audi doesn't want to lose any momentum and has decided it's the right time to "enhance the deal even further."

From now until the end of August, if you want to swap your clunker for one of 18 eligible Audis, the Ingostadt marque will give you another $1,000 on top of the C.A.R.S. rebate. According to Audi, the allowable models include iterations of the A3, A4, TT, and Q5 from 2008 and 2009. However, there aren't any approved 2010 models, but if you've been thinking about something with four rings on it, August could be your month. Hit the jump for all the details from Audi.

Continue reading Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives

Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3a4audiaudi a3audi a4audi q5audi ttAudiA3AudiA4AudiQ5AudiTtc4ccar buyingCarBuyingcars programCarsProgramcash for clunkersCashForClunkersincentivesnhtsaq5rebatesttThu, 06 Aug 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Can't Win For Losing: Chrysler kills Cash for Clunkers incentives after running out of cars?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/report-chrysler-kills-cash-for-clunkers-incentives-after-runnin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/report-chrysler-kills-cash-for-clunkers-incentives-after-runnin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/report-chrysler-kills-cash-for-clunkers-incentives-after-runnin/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



What do you do with a program that is driving so many customers into your showrooms that inventory is now running low? If you are Chrysler, and it's the popular incentive plan tied to the government's C.A.R.S. (a.k.a. "Cash for Clunkers") program, you extinguish it and replace it with a new, less attractive version. Really.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that as of Tuesday, Chrysler Group LLC will no longer automatically add another $4,500 of its own incentives on top of the $4,500 CARS rebate. Instead, the company will vary the size of the rebates based on vehicle brand and model.

The about-face is the result of a near-unbelievable turn of events for the struggling automaker. An overabundance of inventory forced Chrysler to shut down its factories earlier this year... and now it is faced with dealers complaining about low inventory levels on key vehicles like the Town and Country and Jeep Wrangler, with swelling waiting lists as the incentive program has proven too fruitful.

[Source: The Wall Street Journal | Image: Scott Olson/Getty]

Can't Win For Losing: Chrysler kills Cash for Clunkers incentives after running out of cars? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CancelcarsCashcash for clunkerscash for clunkers billCashForClunkersCashForClunkersBillChryslerEnd programEndProgramIncentivesMon, 03 Aug 2009 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler announces "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/chrysler-announces-double-ca-h-for-your-old-car-promotion/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/chrysler-announces-double-ca-h-for-your-old-car-promotion/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/22/chrysler-announces-double-ca-h-for-your-old-car-promotion/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

With Cash for Clunkers slated to go live on July 23, every automaker appears primed to grab a piece of the action. Chrysler is no different, and its new "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" incentive program promises up to match the government's $4,500 "Clunkers" incentive for some vehicles.

Taking $9,000 off the MSRP of the vehicle of your choosing sounds fantastic, but of course, the program isn't that easy. First, obviously, you'd need a vehicle that is eligible for the maximum $4,500 allowance under the government's Cash for Clunkers initiative. Then, you'd need to find a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep vehicle that has the maximum $4,500 in incentives. If you can fit both of those criteria, you will receive $9,000 off MSRP. Chrysler is also offering 0% financing for up to 72 months through GMAC as an alternative to cash incentives.

Chrysler's "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" program runs from July 23-August 31. Hit the jump to view Chrysler's press release. Unfortunately, the release doesn't contain any information pertaining to which vehicles are eligible for the full incentive of $4,500.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler announces "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion

Chrysler announces "Double CA$H For Your Old Car" promotion originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0 financing0Financingauto financingAutoFinancingcar financingCarFinancingcash for clunkersCashForClunkerschryslerdodgedodge journeyDodgeJourneygmacincentivesWed, 22 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sales Watch: Honda Accord sales creeping up on Toyota Camry?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/sales-watch-honda-accord-sales-creeping-up-on-toyota-camry/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/sales-watch-honda-accord-sales-creeping-up-on-toyota-camry/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/sales-watch-honda-accord-sales-creeping-up-on-toyota-camry/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



While the Honda Accord dominated the 1990s, it has been virtually all Toyota Camry in the new century. Yet a look back at the first six months of 2009 shows that the newer, larger Accord is continuing to gain ground on its chief rival. Camry sales have so far remained top in its segment, with 150,242 sales in the first half of the year. The Accord isn't far behind, though, as it has amassed 131,143 sales through June; only 19,199 behind Camry.

Wards Auto reports that the Accord's gains have been consistent over the past three years, as the sales gap went from 94,004 in 2006 to 80,877 in 2007 and 63,828 in 2008. With sales deeply depressed so far in 2009, though, the numbers can be a bit deceiving. Still, the Camry has seen a 37.4% drop in sales, as compared to 36.3% for the Accord.

Toyota told Wards that one reason for the Accord's improved sales verses the Camry are increasing incentives on the full-size Honda. According to Edmunds, the Accord's April incentives increased four-fold verses the automaker's April, 2008 numbers. Even more interesting is the fact that cash on the hood has increased since April, hitting $2,183 in June. The Camry, on the other hand, had $1,538 on the hood last month; down over $400 compared to May.

[Source: Wards Automotive]

Sales Watch: Honda Accord sales creeping up on Toyota Camry? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accord salesAccordSalesbest-selling carBest-sellingCarcamrycamry salesCamrySaleshondahonda accordHondaAccordincentivestoyotatoyota camryToyotaCamryThu, 16 Jul 2009 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/new-hyundai-assurance-provision-locks-gas-at-1-49-gal-for-one-y/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock ads - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Hyundai is piling on additional incentives to boost its Assurance program as the industry heads into the dog days of summer. The newest promotion, Gas Lock, fixes the price of regular unleaded at $1.49 per gallon for the next year. The program runs July 1 through August 31, and eligible vehicles include the Accent, Sonata, Tiburon, Elantra, Elantra Touring, Entourage, Azera, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz. Customers choosing to utilize Gas Lock will forgo $1,000 in available rebates, making the incentive a gamble that gas prices will remain high.

Hyundai Assurance struck at cord with the American public when it offered payment protection in the event of job loss. Now Hyundai is looking to give consumers increased peace of mind over of the volatility of gas prices, which have swung from under $2 a gallon a few months ago to nearly $3 at the beginning of summer.

John Krafcik, CEO and president of Hyundai Motor America, says the company's research shows that "nearly 40% of potential new car buyers are staying out of the market specifically due to uncertainty around future gas prices."

You may remember that last year, Chrysler tried a similar promotion, offering the opportunity to lock in gas at $2.99 per gallon when a gallon of petrol was at an all-time high of about $4.50. The move didn't appear to be very successful for the Pentastar, as most opted to instead take the upfront cash on the hood. Hit the jump to pour over the particulars of Hyundai's Gas Lock promotion, watch the two commercials, and let us know in the comments section if you feel customers would be better off taking the $1,000 or one year of $1.49 gasoline.

[Source: Hyundai | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

Continue reading New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO]

New Hyundai Assurance provision locks gas at $1.49/gal for one year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>azerafuel pricesFuelPricesgasgas lockgas pricesGasLockgasoline pricesGasolinePricesGasPriceshyundaihyundai assuranceHyundaiAssuranceincentivesrebatessanta feSantaFesonatatucsonveracruzTue, 30 Jun 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford offering extra incentives to "orphaned" Chrysler owners?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/ford-offering-extra-incentives-to-orphaned-chrysler-owners/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/ford-offering-extra-incentives-to-orphaned-chrysler-owners/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/ford-offering-extra-incentives-to-orphaned-chrysler-owners/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Ford is primed to receive a bump in sales as a result of the bankruptcies of General Motors and Chrysler, and the Dearborn-based automaker is picking and choosing where to take share from its domestic competition. One area ripe for conquest are customers who've purchased vehicles from soon-to-be closed Chrysler dealerships. Ford is banking that those customers are going to feel left out in the cold, and the automaker is going to provide some sweet deals to bring those consumers over to the Blue Oval.

The incentives range between $500 and $1,000, but they're only available in select regions at this time. The extra cash will help customers that currently own Chrysler vehicles since resale values of Pentastar-branded vehicles have plummeted over the past few months. Many Chrysler dealers that are losing their stores also own Ford dealerships, and the incentives should also help those dealers keep the customers they've cultivated over the years.

According to Automotive News, Ford officials are trying to be very careful not to send the message out to customers that the automaker is gloating about its comparatively positive position. With Chrysler still knee-deep in bankruptcy hearings and Ford still fighting for profitability itself, a bloodthirsty Blue Oval wouldn't look all that graceful.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Karen Bleier/AFP/Getty]

Ford offering extra incentives to "orphaned" Chrysler owners? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcychryslerfordincentivesrebateWed, 03 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Crazy Kiwis: Buy a new Mitsubishi Triton, get a free goat with purchase]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/crazy-kiwis-buy-a-new-mitsubishi-triton-get-a-free-goat-with-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/crazy-kiwis-buy-a-new-mitsubishi-triton-get-a-free-goat-with-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/crazy-kiwis-buy-a-new-mitsubishi-triton-get-a-free-goat-with-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



New Zealand Mitsubishi wants you to buy a Triton ute, and to lure you into doing it they're using goats -- because really, who can resist a goat? Said Mitsu's New Zealand sales and marketing manager, Peter Wilkins, "three years of drought has severely depleted sheep and beef populations, so what better time to float the goat?''

But wait, there's more! If you don't end up taking the goat -- said to go well with the Triton because goats are "hardy, versatile units which will integrate directly into existing farm operations'' -- a goat-free package is available. That will get you a 5-year extended warranty, five vehicle fitness inspections, five thousand km of road user charges paid, five years of roadside assistance, and $500 worth of Triton accessories.

New Zealand Mitsubishi, working hard to... get your goat. (Sorry, had to...)

[Source: Courier Mail]

Crazy Kiwis: Buy a new Mitsubishi Triton, get a free goat with purchase originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 May 2009 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>goathumorincentivesmarketingmitstubishimitsubishi tritonMitsubishiTritonnew zealandNewZealandpickuptritontruckuteSat, 30 May 2009 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest findings says cars more affordable now than they have been since study began in 1979]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/10/latest-findings-says-cars-more-affordable-now-than-they-have-bee/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/10/latest-findings-says-cars-more-affordable-now-than-they-have-bee/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/10/latest-findings-says-cars-more-affordable-now-than-they-have-bee/#commentsFiled under: , ,



While tanking auto sales are bad for automakers, the customers buying cars and trucks are paying less for them than any time in the past 30 years. Comerica Bank's Auto Affordability Index shows that a vehicle with a $26,000 MSRP takes the average family 21.5 weeks of median income to buy. That's 1.3 weeks less than in December of 2008, as incentives have grown by an average of $1,700 per vehicle purchase in only five months. Lower interest rates and deep discounts are being assisted by looser credit requirements as well. In April, industry incentives averaged out to $2,931 per vehicle, and domestics were at $3,412.

The lower price of cars and trucks hasn't resulted in higher vehicle sales, though, so analysts expect the downward pricing trend to continue. Chrysler, for example, is beginning to offer incentives of up to $6,000 per vehicle. If GM enters chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 1, it's possible that the Detroit-based automaker could offer similarly deep discounts. Again, bad news for automakers, but not necessarily so for car buyers.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Latest findings says cars more affordable now than they have been since study began in 1979 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 May 2009 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingCarBuyingchryslerComerica Banks Auto Affordability IndexComericaBanksAutoAffordabilityIndexgmincentivesinterest ratesInterestRatesrebatesSun, 10 May 2009 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Hyundai Assurance - We'll ~*^#ing do <i>anything</i> (NSFW language) ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/video-hyundai-assurance-well-ing-do-i-anything-i-nsf/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/video-hyundai-assurance-well-ing-do-i-anything-i-nsf/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/video-hyundai-assurance-well-ing-do-i-anything-i-nsf/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Assurance Spoof: Click above to watch the video after the jump

The Hyundai Assurance program has been one of the most clever - and arguably among the most successful - incentive programs in recent memory. Hyundai has experienced a sharp rise in retail share since the program was initiated, and Ford and GM were so impressed with the program that the Detroit automakers decided to whip up their own assurance plan.

If imitation isn't the biggest sign that Hyundai Assurance is a success, then parody is. Some clever chaps at Funny or Die took it upon themselves to create their own Hyundai Assurance commercial, but somehow we don't think this is what the Korean automaker had in mind. Sex ads on Hyundai' website? We don't think so. Be warned, although it's very funny, it has some explicit language. If swear words aren't your thing, you're around kids, or you're sitting in your cube with your ultra-p.c. boss lurking over your shoulder, you may want to pass on this one. Hit the jump to see for yourself.

[Source: Funny or Die]

Continue reading VIDEO: Hyundai Assurance - We'll ~*^#ing do anything (NSFW language)

VIDEO: Hyundai Assurance - We'll ~*^#ing do anything (NSFW language) originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>funny or dieFunnyOrDiehyundai assuranceHyundaiAssuranceincentivesmarketingparodyFri, 17 Apr 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to unveil new incentives to assure buyers?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/report-gm-to-unveil-new-incentives-to-assure-buyers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/report-gm-to-unveil-new-incentives-to-assure-buyers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/31/report-gm-to-unveil-new-incentives-to-assure-buyers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



All the bankruptcy talk surrounding General Motors hasn't helped the largest U.S. automaker on the showroom floor, as sales have dropped by over 50% in 2009. Without additional incentives, GM sales may fall further with the the Obama administration's rejection yesterday of the 100-year-old company's most recent viability plan.

GM is apparently not planning on going quietly into the night, as the automaker is reportedly preparing some big-time incentives to help move metal in the midst of all this bankruptcy talk. Bloomberg is reporting that GM will unveil new incentives on April 1 (no joke) that in many ways mirror the Hyundai Assurance plan. Any worker laid off after purchasing a car or truck will reportedly be able to turn in the vehicle without taking a credit hit.

Another element of GM's reported incentive plan is backing the residual value of its vehicles. While details are still sketchy, the program would "provide some restitution for customers who are unable to resell their vehicles at a prearranged value when they want a new car or truck." Depending on the specifics, that could cost the automaker a pretty penny, as good resale value hasn't been its calling card for some time now despite recent efforts to the contrary like drastically cutting sales to fleets.

[Source: Bloomberg | Image: Spencer Platt/Getty]

GM to unveil new incentives to assure buyers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm incentivesGM marketingGmIncentivesGmMarketinghyundai assuranceHyundaiAssuranceincentivesrebateTue, 31 Mar 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[GM considering new incentives like, but not exactly like, Hyundai Assurance program]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/gm-considering-new-incentives-like-but-not-exactly-like-hyunda/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/gm-considering-new-incentives-like-but-not-exactly-like-hyunda/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/gm-considering-new-incentives-like-but-not-exactly-like-hyunda/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



General Motors' sales for the month of February dropped by a gut-wrenching 53% versus February 2008, giving the General plenty of incentive to kick up, well, incentives. GM knows it has to do something more than the typical cash on the hood, 0% financing marketing initiatives, and it has looked at the Hyundai Assurance program for inspiration.

GM executive Mark LeNeve told Automotive News his company recognizes that the Hyundai program may be addressing sagging consumer confidence, but he doesn't like the fact that losing your job means you also lose your car. LeNeve also stated that he isn't sure the Hyundai Assurance program is the main reason that the Korean automaker's sales were up 14% for January, stating that a portion of the increase could be the result of deep discounts on 2008 models.

Then again, Hyundai had the third lowest decline in February of any major automaker, showing that its improved product lineup is likely being helped by clever incentives. For now, GM isn't divulging much in the way of details about its new incentive plans, but for the short term plans on extending its Presidents Day sale into March. Times may be tough right now, but it looks as if more automakers than just Hyundai are preparing creative incentive programs to move their metal.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd | Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty]

GM considering new incentives like, but not exactly like, Hyundai Assurance program originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gmhyundai assuranceHyundaiAssuranceincentivesmark leneveMarkLeneveWed, 04 Mar 2009 11:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Germany's turn: scrap your used car, get a bonus to buy a new one]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/germanys-turn-scrap-your-used-car-get-a-bonus-to-buy-a-new-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/germanys-turn-scrap-your-used-car-get-a-bonus-to-buy-a-new-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/germanys-turn-scrap-your-used-car-get-a-bonus-to-buy-a-new-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Last month China proposed a plan to offer consumers a cash incentive to scrap their cars and buy new ones. Germany is the latest country looking at the same option, with a law that aims to give €2,500 to people getting rid of cars that are at least nine years old and buying new ones.

China may want to watch what happens in Germany: so far, interest in the program looks like it could exceed the available funds. The German government set aside €1.5 billion for reimbursements, which is enough to reward 600,000 people. But in just two days, the office that will look after the program got 420,000 phone calls. One German market research firm put the potential number of takers at 1.2 million.

If the measure passes into law as is, then early birds would get the incentive worm. The €1.5 billion is coming out of a €50 billion German stimulus plan, aimed at reviving the automotive, transport, and education sectors, and it wouldn't seem out of the question for them to double the allotted funds to allow all to participate. Although no one knows how much the program would help German automakers -- people might scrap their cars and buy Fords -- it would put money back into the economy and get cleaner cars on the roads to boot. Hat tip to Gregg!

[Source: Der Spiegel | Photo: Ms. Martin]

Germany's turn: scrap your used car, get a bonus to buy a new one originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 07:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyeuroeuropegermanygovernmentincentivesmerkelused carsUsedCarsWed, 28 Jan 2009 07:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Not Saved By Zero: Toyota looking to ramp up rebates]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/15/toyota-ramping-up-the-rebates/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/15/toyota-ramping-up-the-rebates/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/15/toyota-ramping-up-the-rebates/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Remember that horrible "Saved by Zero" campaign (no, not that one) that Toyota ran late last year? Besides producing some of the worst commercials the world has ever seen, it was a failure when it came to its singular goal of selling more cars and trucks. Toyota was the only automaker in the top five that actually lost market share at the end of the year, despite running its 0% financing deals. So, what's next? Incentives.

According to Jim Lentz, president of Toyota Motor Sales here in the States, "The shift that you'll see in January from December is more consumer cash and less APR and lease support through our dealers."

These days, the biggest rebates come on big trucks like the Tundra, but we should also expect some great on everything from subcompacts like the Yaris to hybrids like the Prius. So if you're thinking of buying a new Toyota, you might want to hang on a little while longer.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Not Saved By Zero: Toyota looking to ramp up rebates originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car salesCarSalesfinancingincentive programIncentiveProgramincentivesrebatessaved by zeroSavedByZerotoyota incentivestoyota rebatetoyota rebatesToyotaIncentivesToyotaRebateToyotaRebatesThu, 15 Jan 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[GM ups incentives: zero percent financing for up to 60 months]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/gm-ups-incentives-zero-percent-financing-for-up-to-60-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/gm-ups-incentives-zero-percent-financing-for-up-to-60-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/gm-ups-incentives-zero-percent-financing-for-up-to-60-months/#commentsFiled under: ,



General Motors is celebrating GMAC's decision to loosen credit restrictions by increasing incentives on many remaining 2008 models. Effective immediately, the General is offering 0% APR for 60 months on the 2008 Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy, and the entire Saab lineup. All GMT900 full-size SUVs and every member of the 2008 Cadillac lineup also gets a big-time incentive boost, with 1.9% financing available for 60 months. The rock-bottom deals come in addition to cash incentives of up to $4,250. GM is also offering financing as low as 3.9% on select 2009 models, including the well-received Cadillac CTS. Hit the jump to see GM's official list of available financing specials.

[Source: GM]

Continue reading GM ups incentives: zero percent financing for up to 60 months

GM ups incentives: zero percent financing for up to 60 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>0 financing0FinancingCadillacGMincentivessaabsuvTue, 30 Dec 2008 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler officially hops on board 12-state credit union loan band wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/chrysler-officially-hops-on-board-12-state-credit-union-loan-ban/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/chrysler-officially-hops-on-board-12-state-credit-union-loan-ban/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/chrysler-officially-hops-on-board-12-state-credit-union-loan-ban/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Last week, GM partnered with credit unions in four states to offer up to $10 billion in new car loans and incentives. Not one to be left shivering alone in the cold, and with November sales down nearly 28% compared to last year, Chrysler LLC has just announced their own 12-state credit union program allowing its customers access to upwards of $12 billion in auto loan financing. The partnership (also called "Invest in America") gives participating credit union members additional $500 to $1,000 rebates on most Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge vehicles. Steven Landry, Chrysler's executive VP of North America sales, says, "We are confident that the Invest in America program and credit union member cash will provide significant value for our customers and the economy as a whole during these challenging times." While additional cash on the hood of a new Chrysler sounds appealing, we really don't think that buyers are avoiding showrooms due to a lack of financial incentives -- it's been a buyer's market for months.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Chrysler officially hops on board 12-state credit union loan band wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 07:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChryslerdodgeincentivesInvest in americaInvestInAmericajeeprebatessteven landryStevenLandryFri, 19 Dec 2008 07:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Would you buy American if your boss gave you $1,000?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/would-you-buy-american-if-your-boss-gave-you-1-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/would-you-buy-american-if-your-boss-gave-you-1-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/13/would-you-buy-american-if-your-boss-gave-you-1-000/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chet Czaplicka doesn't own one of the Big 3's suppliers or run a car dealership. Instead, he is the chief executive of a blood-processing firm in the Detroit suburb of Livonia, Michigan. But like most people in that part of the country, he has several autoworkers in his family. And, perhaps more importantly, he understands how extensively the overall US. economy is enmeshed with the production of automobiles.

"I live here. My business is here. My Ma draws a pension from Ford," Czaplicka says in a recent Detroit News article. "If these companies go down, I'm screwed."

But instead of just bitching about it, Czaplicka is doing something. He's offering each of his employees $1,000 if they'll buy a Ford, GM or Chrysler vehicle. He's looking at a $92,000 payout if every one of his workers take him up on the deal before it expires Jan. 5.

At least one of Czaplicka's company's employees has been inspired to go shopping for a Ford. The story says Sean Murtha is considering a new Ford Edge for his wife. "A thousand bucks, that's like three months of payments," says Murtha, who is with the company's Fort Lauderdale office. "We're a bit removed from the Detroit scene but it's nice we can contribute."

[Source: The Detroit News]

Would you buy American if your boss gave you $1,000? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Dec 2008 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutbig 3Big3car shoppingCarShoppingcash backCashBackincentivesrebatesSat, 13 Dec 2008 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[GM to delay dealer incentive payments]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/gm-to-delay-dealer-incentive-payments/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/gm-to-delay-dealer-incentive-payments/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/17/gm-to-delay-dealer-incentive-payments/#commentsFiled under: ,

From November 28 to December 11, GM is holding back incentive payments to dealers, including dealer cash and customer cash. Why? in the words of Mark LaNeve, GM's VP of North American sales, because "Anytime you can delay any kind of a payment, it helps cash flow" And cash is probably the most important four-letter word in any GM dictionary.

The withheld payments don't cover all the monies that GM sends to dealers, just various incentives. According to Automotive News' numbers, the two weeks of extra cash could let GM hold on to an extra $300 million. If GM needs $14 billion per month to operate, $300 million would extend the lifeline by... almost another day. Payments after December 11 would resume on a weekly basis, but with the new two-week delay, something like an employee paycheck. GM discussed the plan with the National Dealer Council beforehand and, unsurprisingly, the council understood. Follow the jump to read LaNeve's letter to dealers.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Continue reading GM to delay dealer incentive payments

GM to delay dealer incentive payments originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealersdealershipsearningsfinancialsgmgm dealersgm dealershipsgm incentive paymentsGmDealersGmDealershipsGmIncentivePaymentsincentivesmark laneveMarkLaneveMon, 17 Nov 2008 18:31:00 EST