Audi will showcase the new Audi A8 at a Design Miami/ site-specific installation: a full-size car will turn into a miniature collectible on a coffee-table and be surrounded by supersized furniture.

Audi did not release any details about the new A8. Stay tuned...

PRESS RELEASE:

Audi Celebrates 'The Art of Progress' on Miami Beach with World-premiere of the new Audi A8

- Audi will unveil all-new flagship model on the eve of the world's most important art and design fairs at the Audi Pavilion
- Reveal will coincide with 'The Art of Progress' exhibition in collaboration with Design Miami/, Tom Dixon and the Rubell Family Collection
- Exhibition open to international fair visitors as satellite of Design Miami/ 2009

HERNDON, Va., Nov 19, 2009 - Audi today announced that the culmination of its 100th anniversary celebration will be held at the world's most important art and design fairs, Design Miami/ and Art Basel Miami Beach. At this prestigious event, Audi will reveal for the first time the all-new 2010 edition of the brand's flagship sedan, the Audi A8. The reveal will take place at the Audi Pavilion, a temporary museum structure built on Miami Beach in proximity to the iconic Fontainebleau hotel. The reveal and exhibition will coincide with the Vernissage of "The Art of Progress" exhibit, which itself is inspired by key attributes of the new A8, as well as the Audi brand's core philosophy.

Being a satellite exhibition of Design Miami/ 2009, the "Art of Progress" will host a by-invitation-only Audi Collectors' Brunch on December 1st and then open its doors to the fairs' visitors and Miami residents from December 2nd to 5th. In addition, as "designer among designers," Audi will showcase the new Audi A8 at a Design Miami/ site-specific installation: a full-size car will turn into a miniature collectible on a coffee-table and be surrounded by supersized furniture.

For the fourth year, Audi remains the Exclusive Automotive Sponsor of Design Miami/, the pre-eminent fair for limited-edition design, and continues to provide Q7 TDI clean diesel vehicles as VIP shuttles to the fair's VIP guests.

Bringing together new works from British superstar designer Tom Dixon and a selection of contemporary art masterpieces on loan from the Rubell Family Collection, the "Art of Progress" will merge culture and technology, design and art in an exceptional way. Audi has partnered up with Design Miami/ to develop the exhibit's curative concept.

"We see the combination of the Rubell Family Collection art exhibition and the Design Miami/ Tom Dixon installations working together to support the story of the new A8: 'The Art of Progress," says Ambra Medda, Design Miami/ Director. "Progress can be measured in both cultural and technological achievements. Culture speaks to the human desire for passion and meaning, while technology addresses our desire for easier, more refined, more sophisticated living. In the context of "The Art of Progress," art represents both cultural progress and technological progress, both of which are synthesized in the new Audi A8."

Related to the exhibition "Beg Borrow and Steal" concurrently on view at the Rubell Family Collection, the art on display at the Audi Pavilion explores the important trope of aesthetic appropriation, by which artists combine and recombine aspects of both everyday popular culture and the art-historical canon into their work. Also included in the Audi Pavilion are a number of pieces by John Baldessari, whose work often incorporates existing images and juxtaposes them to create new meanings.

"Our collaboration with Audi on this exhibition is particularly appropriate. In pioneering new innovations in technology, Audi appreciates that advances in science and engineering could not exist without corollary advances in art", say Mera and Don Rubell, Founders of the Rubell Family Collection. "The most interesting contemporary art almost always engages with a future that is not yet known. The artists we chose for, "The Art of Progress" engage that future, building on the ideas and innovations of the past, coming up with their own, and leaving their mark on history. We are grateful to Audi for sharing with us this vision."

Tom Dixon, through Design Research Studio, will present "Light Light." A centerpiece in the "Art of Progress" exhibit, "Light Light" features 130-square meters of specially designed, aluminum-polyhedral lights and helium balloons that emphasize weightless structure and luminosity, craftsmanship and precision, all vital features both of Tom Dixon's designs and the Audi brand's core competences, such as lightweight aluminum construction and LED light design. For this installation, Tom Dixon's designers and technicians have created and experimented with new shapes to demonstrate the craftsmanship, technical development and design passion involved in the making of the new Audi A8.

"We had privileged access to a world that very few people get to see," says Tom Dixon. "The design and development areas of Audi are extraordinary exercises in the most complex and advanced manufacturing techniques. The constant pursuit of the ideal is an inspiration for anyone involved in design and industry. We looked at a series of qualities in the new Audi A8 that are difficult to articulate in words, and tried to find the purest and simplest ways to express them in our own way."

Audi Pavilion
45th & Collins Avenue
Miami Beach

December 2 through 5, 2009
Open daily from 12-8 pm

Audi Lounge at Design Miami
Design Miami Temporary Structure
NE 39th Street and 1st Court
Miami Design District

December 2 through 5, 2009
Open daily from 11am-7 pm

The 550i Gran Turismo is powered by a 400-hp 4.4L twin-turbo that is mated to BMW's first ever 8-speed transmission. It is capable of reaching 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The twin-turbo 535i GT will also be available, but BMW has yet to release pricing on that model.

PRESS RELEASE:

BMW ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE 2010 BMW 550i GRAN TURISMO

The 550i Gran Turismo arrives in showrooms with an MSRP of $64,725.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, November 18, 2009... BMW today announced pricing for the first of its 5 Series Gran Turismo models to reach US shores. The 550i Gran Turismo will be available beginning December 5, 2009 with a base MSRP of $64,725, including $825 Destination & Handling.

The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a new interpretation of a classic concept offering, in this case, luxury seating for four or five in combination with remarkably flexible storage options. 550i Gran Turismo will combine the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with BMW's first-ever 8-speed automatic transmission. With maximum output of 400 horsepower and peak torque of 450 lb-ft., the 550i Gran Turismo will accelerate from 0 - 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds.

The 550i Gran Turismo provides a luxurious traveling experience for five. The available Luxury Rear Seating Package creates the ultimate first class environment for two rear passengers. The unique dual-access tailgate offers the choice of a tradition trunk opening or full tailgate access to the generous rear luggage area.

A full list of options and packages may be found below.

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo Available Packages:

* Active Ventilated-seat Package $2,950
* Back-up Camera Package $750
* Convenience Package $1,900
* Cold Weather Package $950
* Driver Assistance Package $1,350
* Luxury Rear Seating Package $3,950
* Premium Sound Package $1,400
* Sport Package $4,200
* Nappa Leather Package $1,000

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo optional equipment:

* 20-inch wheels with mixed-sized performance tires $1,000
* Power rear side window shades $500
* Integral Active Steering $1,750
* Multi-contour seats $1,300
* Satellite radio $350
* Rear seat entertainment system $2,200
* Smartphone integration $150
* 4-zone automatic climate control $500
* Ceramic finished controls $650
* Ski bag $150
* iPod and USB adapter $400
* Head-up display $1,300
* Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection $2,600

The European Land Cruiser is powered by a 3.0L diesel with 171 horsepower and is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The body on frame design yields 8.5 inches of ground clearance and gives the SUV the ability to wade through 27.6 inches of water.

Toyota will offer the European Land Cruiser in three trim levels with prices ranging from £29,795 to £44,795. Of course we won't get this model in the US badged as a Toyota, but it could be a clue to what to expect from the Lexus GX 460.

Related Stories:
2010 Lexus GX 460 to Debut at Guangzhou Auto Show

PRESS RELEASE:

TOYOTA LAUNCHES THE ALL-NEW LAND CRUISER

Off-road excellence and on-road poise from latest in a line of 4×4 legends

* All-new Toyota Land Cruiser builds on a world-leading heritage
* Equipped with advanced new systems for safe and secure off-road performance
* Engineered to excel in the toughest conditions, while maintaining on-road poise and comfort
* Five-door model seating up to seven, powered by 3.0-litre D-4D engine with five-speed automatic transmission
* Three equipment grades - LC3, LC4 and LC5 - priced from £29,795 on the road

The Toyota Land Cruiser has built a formidable reputation around the world for its ability to take even the most extreme conditions in its stride. From arid deserts to polar wastes, Land Cruiser has demonstrated its unrivalled toughness and durability in a heritage that spans six decades.

This background of achievement makes the launch of an all-new Land Cruiser a particularly significant event and Toyota has wasted no effort to ensure its new model builds on the pedigree of its ancestors. It is equipped with a raft of new and advanced handling and driver assistance systems that take its off-road capabilities to new heights. At the same time, it has been engineered for greater poise, comfort and performance when driving on-road.

In the UK new Land Cruiser is offered as a five-door model powered by a revised 171bhp 3.0-litre D-4D engine, matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Three equipment grades are offered - LC3, LC4 and LC5 - with seven seats fitted as standard on all but the entry level version (on which third row seats are an option). Customer orders are being taken now with first deliveries from early December. On-the-road prices range from £29,795 to £44,795.

Design and Construction
The new Land Cruiser is only slightly larger than its predecessor, which helps maintain its off-road agility. The styling combines the model's traditionally robust looks with styling cues that were first introduced on the larger Land Cruiser V8.

Intelligent interior packaging provides more space inside the cabin, with Toyota EasyFlat third row seats that can be raised of folded flat at the touch of a button (LC4 and LC5 models). The usable loadspace has been significantly increased and a new rear glass hatch allows items to be loaded without having to open the full side-hinged tailgate - ideal for tight parking places.

Toyota has retained the body-on-frame construction that has always been an integral part of Land Cruiser's exceptional off-road ability. Careful attention to the suspension design and NVH measures ensure high standards of on-road ride, handling and comfort are maintained.

Technology for on and off-road performance
New Land Cruiser introduces a series of advanced but user friendly features that help the driver tackle even the most challenging routes. These include: -

* Electrically modulated Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which minimises body roll and gives positive steering on-road, and increases wheel articulation off-road.
* Full-time All-wheel drive with Torsen limited slip differential.
* Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), with four driver-selectable modes to tailor vehicle settings for different off-road conditions.
* Multi-Terrain Monitor, a world-first system of front and side view cameras that give the driver a real-time view of areas immediately around the vehicle that can't be seen from the wheel.
* Crawl Control, which controls the engine and brakes to maintain a slow, safe speed when driving off-road or wading, so the driver only needs to concentrate on steering. This operates in both forward and reverse gears.
* Active Traction Control (A-TRC), Multi-Terrain ABS and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) are fitted as standard on all models.

Equipment highlights
There is nothing spartan about life on board the new Land Cruiser. 17-inch alloys, roof rails, fog lamps, climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth and Smart Entry and Start system are all part of the LC3 specification.

LC4 models add triple-zone climate control, 18-inch wheels, powered folding third row seats, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable heated front seats, dusk-sensing headlights, auto-dimming rear-view mirrors, rear parking monitor, 17-speaker JBL premium audio package and a hard disc drive (HDD) navigation system with a 10GB sound library.

At the top of the range the LC5 models come with Adaptive Variable Suspension with Active height Control, sunroof, Crawl Control, Multi-terrain Monitor, Steering Angle Display, Multi-terrain Select and a rear seat entertainment system for DVD playback and gaming.

All you need to know
The Toyota Land Cruiser UK press pack, with full technical and equipment specifications is available at the Toyota media web site, www.toyotagb-press.co.uk, together with downloadable high-resolution images. Broadcast quality video footage can be viewed and ordered on-line.

The Mazda2 shares its platform with the Ford Fiesta, which is also set to have its US debut at the show. Mazda has released one teaser of the subcompact, but didn't release any details about the engine lineup and what body styles we will receive. The preview shows the rear of the five-door hatchback model, so we can at least expect that model.

PRESS RELEASE:

North American Mazda2 to Debut at 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show

Hiroshima, Japan, 18 November 2009. Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the Mazda2 at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. The globally-acclaimed Mazda2 brings a level of style and driving dynamics to the North American sub-compact segment that no other competitor can offer. The vehicle will be sold in the U.S. and Canada beginning in late 2010. The LA Auto Show press days are 2-3 December; public days run from 4 through 13 December.

"Bringing Mazda2 to North America completes the bookends in our line-up," said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. "With the seven- passenger crossover CX-9 at one end and the sub-compact Mazda2 at the other, Mazda's line-up now spans the most significant product segments in the industry, and is the strongest, best-designed, best-built we have ever offered. Mazda2 will be true to everything that makes our cars stand apart from the competition: it will be stylish, fun-to-drive and a heck of a value. In short, it will be the definition of Zoom-Zoom."

Mazda2 has been a sales and media success in markets around the world, winning 48 awards and being recognized as Car of the Year in more than 20 countries. Additionally, Mazda2 was named "2008 World Car of the Year," besting all other new cars around the world.

Mazda's press conference is scheduled to take place from 11:05 to 11:30 (local time) on Wednesday, 2 December 2009.
Main Exhibits

Scheduled for sale
Mazda2 North American specification (North American premiere)

Models currently on sale
Mazda3, Mazda3 MPS, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda MX-5, Mazda RX-8, Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9

The 2010 Ford Fusion managed to beat out 23 other models for the award, which included the Toyota Prius, BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Ford also had three models this year that were in the running for the award. The Taurus, Fusion and Mustang.

"The MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award is another testament of our commitment to delivering a world-class car lineup," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development, who accepted the golden calipers on behalf of the Ford team. "Whether it is the best-in-class fuel economy or quality unsurpassed by Toyota or Honda, the Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are clear evidence that Ford is serious about our car lineup."

This announcement comes on the heels of Ford announcing that the Fusion is now the best-selling midsize domestic sedan in the US and that the model is now in the list of top ten selling vehicles.

PRESS RELEASE:

FORD FUSION NAMED 2010 MOTOR TREND CAR OF THE YEAR

- The 2010 Ford Fusion is MOTOR TREND magazine's pick for its prestigious Car of the Year® award
- The Fusion bested a field of 23 contenders - including the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class - to win the prominent award
- Fusion is now among America's top 10-selling vehicles and the No. 1-selling domestic car
- Ford Fusion is America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan for both hybrid and conventional gasoline models. The Fusion Hybrid with an EPA estimated 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway tops the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway, while the four-cylinder Fusion with best-in-class highway fuel economy at 34 mpg tops the Toyota Camry four-cylinder by 2 mpg

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 17, 2009 - The Ford Fusion - America's most fuel-efficient midsize sedan - today was named MOTOR TREND's 2010 Car of the Year®. The award comes hot on the heels of Fusion setting record-breaking sales for 2009.

The prestigious award from MOTOR TREND comes at a time when Fusion sales are already at an all-time high, further positioning the vehicle as a formidable contender in the competitive midsize sedan market.

"The MOTOR TREND Car of the Year award is another testament of our commitment to delivering a world-class car lineup," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Ford Global Product Development, who accepted the golden calipers on behalf of the Ford team. "Whether it is the best-in-class fuel economy or quality unsurpassed by Toyota or Honda, the Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are clear evidence that Ford is serious about our car lineup."

To win the coveted Car of the Year award, Fusion outperformed the competition - including the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan - in six new categories: design achievement, engineering excellence, intended function, efficiency, safety and value.

"The Fusion brought a vast assortment of choice that has the potential to appeal to every type of driver, from the eco-conscious to the sport-minded," said MacKenzie. "The Fusion's combination of comfort, fuel efficiency, assortment and technology made it a clear winner among our panel of judges."

The 2010 Fusion and Fusion Hybrid are the most fuel-efficient sedans in America. The new models offer more power; class-exclusive technologies, such as Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) and Ford SYNC®; and more total passenger and luggage capacity than the Toyota Camry.

The Fusion lineup expanded in the 2010 model year to include all-new Hybrid and Sport models and a new selection of gas-powered engines - all paired with six-speed transmissions - that deliver even more horsepower and better fuel economy.

Fusion: A hit from the start
The Ford Fusion has been generating excitement among journalists and consumers alike since the nameplate first launched in the fall of 2005. In fact, the introductory model - which marked Ford's re-entry into the midsize sedan market - was a finalist for MOTOR TREND's 2006 Car of the Year award.

Since then, Fusion's popularity has continued to soar - and so have sales. Fusion set a sales record in April - the first full month of sales for the redesigned 2010 model and the new Fusion Hybrid - and overall sales are already at an all-time high for 2009.

With its quality unsurpassed by Toyota or Honda, best-in-class fuel economy, class-exclusive technologies and significant residual value improvement, the 2010 Ford Fusion is clearly delivering the key attributes that midsize sedan buyers want.

"Even at a time when industry-wide sales are down 26 percent, Fusion sales continue to grow," said Ford Sales Analyst George Pipas.

The new Fusion Hybrid model has played an important role in Fusion's success. The vehicle delivers an EPA estimated 41 mpg rating in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, topping the Toyota Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city and 2 mpg on the highway. It also offers innovative new technology - SmartGauge™ with EcoGuide - that coaches hybrid drivers to maximize fuel efficiency.

According to Fusion Marketing Manager Jonathan Richards, car buyers are so passionate about Fusion that they are choosing to buy the high series models - Hybrid, SEL and Sport.

"Data show that high series models account for 50 percent of sales," he said. "Customers are also embracing technology offerings like voice-activated navigation, SYNC and Sony® Audio."

Richards says the introduction of a Sport model is also drawing praise from Fusion customers, as is the new six-speed gearbox with SelectShift™ transmission.