Are the car stereotypes true? Do Democrats own small hybrids, and Republicans drive full-size pickups and SUVs? Being that 2012 is a presidential election year, Strategic Vision collected the political party choice of more than 76,000 new-vehicle buyers who made a purchase during the past two years. Among the findings about party affiliation, what models […] [Read More]

In the first installment of exclusive AuctionNet Wholesale Price and Forecast Data provided by NADA Used Car Guide to Auto Remarketing, wholesale prices remain consistent, but the effect of rising gas prices is “undeniably evident,” the organization stressed. And some segments, though not normally thought of as gas sippers, are also benefiting from the spring […] [Read More]

Lexus contends it is “raising the bar again” in regard to customer service by partnering with its franchised dealers to create two new certified store positions. Announced Thursday, Lexus explained the vehicle delivery specialist (VDS) will introduce customers to their new units and review the features of each model. Meanwhile, the brand highlighted the vehicle […] [Read More]

Daimler Auto Group believes Mercedes-Benz is well on its way to achieving the goals of its 2020 growth strategy and reclaiming the No. 1 position in the premium segment by the end of the decade.  Speaking to investors and analysts at the opening of the company’s new plant in Kecskemet, Hungary Thursday, Daimler chairman and […] [Read More]

As credit loosens, confidence in the economy improves and gas prices climb, consumers are heading back to the lots, according to the sales forecast from Edmunds.com.  As these factors drive rising auto sales, analysts contend that after “delaying purchases” over the last couple of years, shoppers will “march” back to the lots, contributing to what […] [Read More]

With the Web becoming more of an integral part of the vehicle shopping process, FirstLook and MAX Systems founder Pat Ryan Jr. is hosting a session at next week’s 12th Digital Dealer show that can help dealers tackle online challenges and find success. His workshop — “Driving Traffic … When the Traffic is Online” — […] [Read More]

With 70 million of its vehicles in operation today, General Motors says that more than 7,000 customer interactions flow through its GM Customer Assistance Center each day. And at the center of it all is Jim Moloney, general director of customer assistance and relationship services, who has turned to social media and analytics to stay […] [Read More]

ATLANTA — Subprime origination growth continued across all lending sectors this past year, according to recent U.S. consumer data from Equifax's March National Consumer Credit Trends Report and CreditForecast.com. And auto finance loan amounts have risen to levels not seen in five years. In the auto finance segment, subprime borrowers are gaining share in new auto […] [Read More]

ONTARIO, Calif. — CUDL recently released a new white paper that focuses on the “keys” to successful credit union indirect auto lending programs. The white paper, titled  “'Successful Indirect Auto Lending Programs Build on Credit Union Strengths in Relationship and Portfolio Management,' addresses the keys to credit union success within the indirect lending marketplace by […] [Read More]

CHICAGO — In order of credit importance in consumers' eyes, TransUnion discovered this week that an auto loan ranks No. 1. TransUnion recently updated a study that found in 2011 consumers were more likely to pay their auto loans before their credit cards and mortgages. This insight was gained through TransUnion's Payment Hierarchy study update, which […] [Read More]