When we talk about human nature, we’re talking about conditions that are basic to all of us, so what we’re really talking about is a tremendous natural resource that can be studied and used to further our own purpose. Once you have a basic understanding of the prey you are hunting, the task becomes not […] [Read More]

After reviewing data from the fourth quarter of last year, Experian Automotive said today that Ford took the top spot in corporate loyalty. It’s the first time the Blue Oval has secured this achievement since the closing quarter of 2011. During the fourth quarter of 2012, analysts determined 47.9 percent of the customers who own […] [Read More]

Used-vehicle sales will approach 2.9 million units this month, according to estimates from TrueCar.com released this morning. The site is projecting a new-to-used sales ratio of 1:2 for March. This prediction follows the forecast of CNW Research earlier this month, which called for 2.95 million used sales. Each forecast includes numbers for franchised and independent […] [Read More]

The fewer problems a buyer has with a vehicle purchased, the more likely he or she is to return to a dealer’s lot. The bottom line: Selling dependable rides can help dealers foster customer loyalty. To show dealers what units customers should be looking for to find a safe, reliable ride, J.D. Power and Associates […] [Read More]

Black Book noticed average-condition units gaining extra attention in the lanes last week. Why are dealers more interested in these vehicles? Black Book editorial director Ricky Beggs explained why during his weekly online video commentary, “Beggs on the Used Car Market.” Before delving into a comparison about average- and clean-condition unit activity, Beggs pointed out […] [Read More]

Industry experts have predicted that late-model used supply will continue to grow in 2013, and this assertion appears to be well-founded. As spring gets underway, reports of higher overall auction volume, trade-ins and off-rental vehicles flowing onto dealers’ lots have flooded the presses. [Read More]

Every spring, dealers get flush with confidence and excitement as sales and profitability pick up in their used-vehicle departments. This year is no different, and it seems dealers are especially buoyant. Here’s a quick sampling of comments from recent e-mails and phone calls: “I think we’ve cracked the nut, Dale. We’ve finally figured out how […] [Read More]

Kelley Blue Book released its 2013 Brand Image Award winners on Monday as Honda took the honor for best overall brand for the second year in a row. Honda also collected two other accolades in this KBB award program, taking the nod for most trusted brand and best value brand. “We are honored to be […] [Read More]

Subaru of America on Monday announced the promotion of a longtime executive to the position of president. Making the move from executive vice president and chief operating officer, spots he’s held since 2009, is Thomas Doll. Prior to his 2009 promotion, Doll served Subaru of America as executive vice president and chief financial officer for […] [Read More]

DealerRater this week announced the promotion of a new vice president from among its ranks. On Monday, Angelica Jeffresy was named vice president of strategic partnerships and national accounts, a role in which she is responsbile for "cultivating relationships with strategic partners, strengthening mutual value propositions and combining efforts to grow DealerRater's business," the company […] [Read More]