San Antonio Cars News

Ford announced thatone of their premium nameplates is up for auction.The surprise? It’s not Jaguar.  The Aston Martin marque will go to the highest bidder, as part of Ford’s Way Forward restructuring plan.Aston Martin is part of Ford’s PAG – Premier Auto Group , and one of the most promising in my eyes.  I know Ford is in need of cash, and perhaps this is indeed a good move.  After all, Aston is a very low volume brand, so profitability could be difficult to maintain.

I think the next logical move after selling Aston Martin would be to unload Jaguar at a firesale price.   Aston Martin has some potential, and should bring some needed cash.  Jaguar simply needs to go away, and become the next owner’s problem.  Link.

For years, America, especially Texas, has loved huge vehicles. Here in San Antonio, we love F-150’s Expeditions, Dodge Rams and Armadas. Recently though, there’s been a change. There are many more small fuel-efficient cars on the streets today. On the way to work this morning, I saw 2 Toyota Prius hybrids.  For San Antonio, that is significant.

With gas near or above $3 per gallon, and oil prices out of control, more people are downsizing than ever before. If you are still considering a large SUV, then this is probably the best time to buy. Incentives are very strong, and dealers are willing to discount them heavily. Are you still consideringa large SUV or truck? If so, why?

San Antonio Cars has launched  a review section all about the local Mitsubishi dealers. Check it out!

In the wake of poor sales across the board, Chrysler is setting a new precedent.  No, I’m not talking about employee pricing ( although they are doing that too! ) , I’m talking about something new.  Something unfounded, and something never done before.  Chrysler will soon be offering a 30 day money back guarantee on all new Chrysler products.  While there are some caveats, such as paying a fee if you decide to return the vehicle, this is still a first of it’s kind offer.

On one hand, it looks like Chrysler is so confident in their products that they are able to offer this program.  Their thinking is that their product is so good, who would want to return it?  I fear though, that many will see it differently.  It is, in fact, an act of desperation of a huge magnitude.  The potential for loss in this program is absolutely tremendous, especially if many people participate in the program, and do return their vehicles.  Only time will tell for sure. Read the full story at Autoblog.

Karl from Edmunds.com got ahold of a 2006 Toyota RAV4 recently, as part of their long term test fleet.  His first impression?

‘However, that 3.5-liter V6 is just an epiphany in terms of torque and refinement, and the handling/ride quality are superb. Interior materials and ergonomics also border on perfection. I also like the looks much more than the overly “cute” previuos version.’

Sounds like he’s really into this new version – time will tell if the rest of the buying public agrees.  There’s no question that this version is vastly improved from previous versions – will it be enough?

Motor Trend got the hands on an early production Shelby GT500, and ran it through their tests in their most recent issue. Their drivers ran a 12.9 in the quarter mile, on a damp track. No doubt faster times will be seen on a more well-prepared track. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing ET’s in the 12.4-12.5 range once this 500 HP monster is released. Is anyone else itching to get their hands on one of these?

Nissan officially announced the pricing for the upcoming 2007 Nissan Versa hatchback yesterday. Pricing starts at just $12,450 for the 1.8S trim level equipped with a 6 speed manual transmission. Top of the line 1.8SL equipped with the CVT transmission begins at $15,450, and is very well equipped.

The Versa is slated to compete with subcompacts such as the Honda Fit, and Hyundai Accent. The Versa should be arriving in Nissan dealers showrooms soon.

Nissan North America,recently announced pricing on the flagship 2007 Nissan Maxima, which goes on sale late this month at Nissan dealers across San Antonio. The MSRP for the new Maxima, which features significant upgrades both inside and outside, has been increased by just $150 from the 2006 model.

The 2007 Nissan Maxima is available in two well-equipped models: 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL. Starting MSRP for the 2007 Maxima 3.5 SE is $28,050 and $30,300 for the Maxima 3.5 SL.

Stay tuned for the upgrades – you will definately be impressed.