Category Archives: Auto Industry News

2014 Forester Latest Subaru to Earn Safety Accolade

Subaru has built up a reputation for delivering reliable, fun to drive, vehicles, and the latest report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety confirms that the "legacy" will continue. The 2014 Subaru Forester recently received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the safety institute, marking a continuing trend for the sporty brand. The 2013 Legacy and Outback were presented with the same title in late 2012, and many other models bearing the Subaru logo can claim the same prestige.

Since 2010, every model to roll off Subaru's production line has earned a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, and the Forester, Legacy and Outback are the first three to get the Top Safety Pick+ title for earning a "good" score in the small overlap frontal crash test. The standard award is given to vehicles that get high marks in at least four out of the other five tests, regardless of their performance in the small overlap test. This shows that Subaru is placing an added emphasis on improving safety for its drivers and passengers.

Car shoppers in the market for used models that offer the utmost in reliability and safety may want to look into buying a 1- to 3-year-old Subaru. Those who prefer something a bit sportier can choose an Impreza hatchback, while those who place greater emphasis on having plenty of cargo space can look to models like the Forester and Outback. Regardless of which model strikes a driver's fancy, there are plenty of Subarus to choose from at New Jersey Auto Auction. The dealer carries a wide selection of used makes and models, which can make it easy to find the right ride to suit any car buyer's needs. Every car, truck and SUV on the lot is also CARFAX certified, so drivers will know they're getting behind the wheel of a reliable ride.

Jeep Wrangler Produces 1 Millionth Model

Whether drivers are off-roading or cruising down the highway, many have looked to the Jeep Wrangler to meet their transportation needs. The vehicle has been a staple of the SUV segment for several years, as well as one of the most popular SUVs, and the car is one of the most recognizable in the world thanks to its unique design. 

The Chrysler Group's Toledo Assembly Complex has been charged with producing all of the Jeep Wranglers, and the site recently reached a significant milestone. On the morning of May 20, it rolled the 1 millionth Wrangler off the line, a sight that was met with fanfare and celebration. The plant's 600 employees were on hand to mark the moment, as were several Chrysler executives. 

The 1 millionth Wrangler was a black 2013 Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition and is bound for Sarasota, Fla.

"Every Jeep Wrangler sold to customers around the world is born in Toledo, Ohio," said Mauro Pino, vice president of the Chrysler Group's vehicle assembly operations. "Since this facility opened eight years ago, the Toledo workforce has built every one of those million vehicles with pride, passion and a focus on quality. We all look forward to building the next million." 

Jeep has been creating vehicles since 1941, but few have made a mark quite like the Wrangler. An iconic design, as well as off-roading capabilities and plenty of customizable touches, has helped to make it a successful venture for the automaker. 

A Jeep Wrangler can be a worthy used car for any driver, but if you're not sure exactly what kind of vehicle you're looking for, head to NJ State Auto Auction. The lot has a wide selection of CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans that work within a budget to provide the most bang for your buck. 

Price Of Used Fisker Cars Falling Rapidly

The Fisker Karma was once a model of supreme luxury. It remains a top vehicle for motorists who want to look like high-rollers, but a recent string of problems with both the cars and the company itself is causing prices to decrease at a rapid rate. 

Fisker is facing plenty of issues that are impacting prices. According to AutoBlog, it has already laid off many of its employees and spent nearly $200 million in federal loans, and the company will likely be sold if it can find a suitor. With so much turmoil going on, many Karma owners are trying to unload their automobiles, but they aren't finding a very hospitable market. 

Although many drivers invested a lot of money in a Fisker Karma when the vehicle was at the top of the proverbial heap, the current market value for the car may be difficult for these motorists to swallow. The cars, which once commanded more than $100,000, are now selling for, at best, about 60 percent of their worth, Top Speed reports. 

"I think they are upset initially when they find out what the market is," Bill Michlin, a car dealer, told NBC News. "They know why it is and where it is, but they didn't realize it would be so low for the car." 

Dropping prices may not be good news for current owners, but it is positive for those who are shopping for a used vehicle. There are dozens of Fisker Karma models now for sale, many of them at prices that are significantly less than they would be ordinarily. 

If you're in the market for a used car, head to New Jersey State Auto Auction for a wide selection of cars, trucks and vans. The lot is filled with CARFAX-certified vehicles that can serve drivers looking for any type of pre-owned automobile. 

Hybrids Offer Great Value For Drivers On A Budget

Hybrids are quickly becoming one of the most popular vehicle segments on the market. Cars.com surveyed the field of hybrids available and selected the best value purchases for drivers to help shoppers looking for green cars narrow their search. These models offer great fuel economy for a low price tag, making it easy and affordable for many people to take advantage of these automobiles. 

"Gas prices remain volatile, so as shoppers consider more fuel-efficient options, they should know how effectively hybrids deliver gas mileage for their dollar – if they do at all," said Joe Wiesenfelder, executive editor of Cars.com. "Simply because a hybrid gets great gas mileage doesn't necessarily mean you save money in the long run, because that same hybrid comes with a higher price tag. To determine if the added expenses are worth the cash, we analyzed overall cost compared to the car's efficiency."

Hybrids are available in many different sizes and in an array of styles, so drivers can find one that suits them. The Toyota Prius earned accolades as a subcompact car, while the Honda Insight and Lexus RX 450h were recognized for being a superb compact car and luxury SUV, respectively. The Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid won among vehicles in the pickup truck segment. 

Other models that Cars.com selected as being the best of the best include the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Acura ILX Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid, to name a few. 

At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can shop around for hybrids, cars, trucks, SUVs and everything in between. The lot is filled with CARFAX certified vehicles that can act as a great used car for any driver. Many of the automobiles boast excellent fuel economy and other features that create a superior driving experience for anyone behind the wheel. 

More Drivers Looking At Diesel And Hybrid Cars

Car consumers are constantly on the lookout for vehicles that will help them save money and the environment at the same time. As a result, diesel and hybrid cars are becoming more popular choices, and people across the U.S. are starting to take notice of these alternative types of automobiles.  

Data compiled from R.L. Polk and Company shows that the number of diesel and hybrid vehicles in the country is growing at a rapid rate. From 2010 through 2012, there has been a 24 percent increase in diesel cars and a 33 percent jump in hybrids, despite the total number of automobiles increasing by less than 3 percent. 

In total, there are about 6.65 million diesel vehicles and 2.29 million hybrids currently registered stateside. 

"While diesel vehicle registrations are slightly less than 3 percent in the U.S., auto analysts and market researchers virtually all agree diesel sales are going to increase significantly as the number of new diesels made available domestically will more than double in the next two years," said Allan Schaeffer of the Diesel Technology Forum. "… And an interesting wild card will be the emerging market domestically and internationally of clean diesel hybrid vehicles that will achieve astounding mpg numbers." 

According to Automotive.com, New York is one of the states with the fastest-growing diesel markets, and its surrounding area may soon see a jump in the number of available diesel vehicles. 

If you're looking for a diesel, hybrid or standard car in the New Jersey area, head over the NJ State Auto Auction. With a large selection of CARFAX certified automobiles, drivers can find just the kind of vehicle they're looking for and make sure it comes with the best safety features and performance standards available. 

Motorists Identify Features They Want In Future Cars

Car owners are constantly on the lookout for features that could help enhance their next vehicle. The ability to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to the changing technological times is extremely important for these motorists, many of whom want to have the most up-to-date resources and aids in their automobiles. 

According to the J.D. Power and Associates 2013 U.S. Automotive Emerging Technologies Study, the majority of vehicle owners are looking for a few specific capabilities in their cars. About 82 percent want a mobile device or application link up, enabling them to connect smartphones directly to the automobile. Another 79 percent wish to have a fuel economy indicator somewhere on their display. 

Additionally, roughly three-fourths of drivers want to see tools like active shutter grille vents, natural language voice activation and a next-generation head-up display. Other potential features included things like wireless connectivity, on board cameras or even technological keys that hook up to phones. 

"Vehicle owners are continually aware of rising fuel costs and the need for better fuel economy," said Mike VanNieuwkuyk, executive director of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. "As they have come to understand the benefits of new automotive technology, they are increasingly interested in those that allow them to manage their fuel consumption with greater efficiency and help better manage their cost at the pump." 

These features are not exclusive to brand new models. Plenty of used cars come with some or even all of these top capabilities, and drivers can get a jump start on finding their next ride at New Jersey State Auto Auction. This NJ lot is filled with CARFAX certified cars, trucks and vans that can meet the needs of many motorists – all they have to do is head over and check out the selection for themselves. 

WardsAuto Names The 10 Best Car Interiors

The interior of a car is often just as important as what's found under the hood. Sleek designs, comfortable seats and state-of-the-art features are all essential for drivers, but it can be difficult to differentiate which automobiles have an interior that really stands apart from the rest. WardsAuto did its  best to help out, however, as the publication recently announced its list of the 10 Best Interiors for 2013. 

To find the list of the final 10, WardsAuto evaluated 46 vehicles with all-new or upgraded interiors by looking at technology, safety, comfort and finish, AutoBlog reports. Cars that earned recognition included seven Asian-made models: the Acura RDX, Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, Kia Forte, Mazda6, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Pathfinder and Lexus GS450h. Other models include the Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Spark and Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn. 

"This year's batch of winners really drives home the point that auto interiors are vital in the battle for consumers' hearts and minds," said Drew Winter, the editor-in-chief of WardsAuto World. "It wasn't all that long ago for automakers to view interiors as the best place to take cost out of a vehicle program. They eventually figured out that's a big mistake because people spend a lot more time looking at the inside of their car than the outside." 

Having a nice car interior is vital for drivers who want to feel comfortable and safe in their automobiles. If you're looking for a great selection of all kinds of vehicles with prime features, performance and interior, think about taking a peek at the selection of cars at New Jersey Auto Auction. It has a wide collection of CARFAX certified cars, trucks and vans that can meet the needs of any driver. 

Toyota Makes Waves With Hybrid Sales

Hybrids are becoming an increasingly popular option for drivers. These cars often have great fuel economy and can cost less to maintain over a long period of time, making them extremely attractive to motorists who are concerned about high gas prices and other costs hurting their wallets. 

"With more than 50 hybrid vehicle models from various manufacturers available in the U.S. today, hybrids on the road are saving nearly 500 million gallons of petroleum annually in this country," said Tony Markel, a senior engineer with the U.S. Department of Energy. 

A large portion of these environmentally sound vehicles present in the U.S. are from Toyota. The manufacture has now sold more than 5 million hybrid vehicles worldwide, including about 2 million in America alone. Although that number is a compilation from about 13 years of sales, the popularity of vehicles like the Prius has taken off recently and should continue to grow from here on out. According to Fox Business, Toyota expects hybrid sales to increase in the coming years. 

In the past year alone, hybrids accounted for about 14 percent of Toyota's total global sales positioning the brand to become one of the top sellers in the future, Bloomberg reports. They are also a major reason why the automaker is ahead of other worldwide brands like General Motors and Volkswagen” target=”_self”>Volkswagen, as models like the Toyota Prius rank highly among the environmentally friendly cars. 

While hybrids may be relatively new to the auto industry, drivers searching for the right car can still find used models available for purchase at places like the NJ Auto Auction. With a variety of CARFAX certified vehicles on the site, prospective owners can find anything they're looking for, whether it's great fuel economy, storage space, safety features or sleek designs. 

The Cost Of Owning And Operating Cars Increases

Car costs can come from any direction. Fuel, maintenance, insurance – all of these miscellaneous expenses pile up and put a strain on any driver's wallet. In fact, a recent study from AAA found that the average cost of owning and operating a typical sedan has increased by almost 2 percent, up to about $9,122 from last year.  

The cost per mile for an average sedan is 60.8 cents. This is significantly less than large sedans or SUVs, but smaller sedans are less expensive in general. As the length of time people keep automobiles grows, drivers are faced with higher maintenance and insurance costs, which has a ripple effect in the auto industry. 

"Many factors go into the cost calculation of owning and operating a vehicle," said AAA director John Nielsen. "This year, changes in maintenance, fuel, and insurance costs resulted in the increase to just over 60 cents a mile … Before you make any vehicle purchase, it is important to determine ownership and operational costs and compare them to your current and future financial situation." 

USA Today reports the largest cost increase in the past year was maintenance. Overall, price tags related to maintaining a vehicle were up more than 11 percent in the past year, which includes the standard costs for replacing parts or getting repair work done. Insurance and fuel prices also grew, albeit by a smaller amount, from 2012 to 2013. 

Drivers who are looking to keep their car costs down can head to the New Jersey Auto Auction to look at an assortment of CARFAX certified models. The Total Car Care Center at NJ Auto Auction is also available for motorists to bring their vehicles in for a tune up or maintenance work. 

Gas Price Predictions May Be Affecting Car Sales

Gas prices may be staying at a relatively high level, but that doesn't mean drivers are rushing out to purchase smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles. AutoBlog reports that the sales of subcompact cars have declined 2.6 percent since October, in spite of the fact that the average gas price has remained between $3.50 and $4. 

During that same time period, the sales of crossover vehicles has risen by 61 percent, the news source reports. Part of the reason for this boom is due to the recent release of some new redesigns like the Nissan Pathfinder or Ford” target=”_self”>Ford Explorer, but it does not fully explain why so many people are ignoring gas prices in favor of automobile features. 

Some of these drivers may be looking to the future in their search to find a vehicle. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts average gas prices will be slightly lower than the last two years. Crude oil prices are expected to fall, which accounts for much of the decline, and the rest of the drops could vary by region. The West Coast will likely have the highest costs – about 26 cents above the national average – while areas in the Gulf Coast and East Coast may also remain high. 

Drivers searching for their next vehicle can check out the offerings at the NJ State Auto Auction. Although subcompact cars may not be selling as widely across the U.S., there may be some models that are a perfect fit for you. You can find a wide selection of makes and models at the New Jersey Auto Auction. No matter which brand you prefer, you can drive off the lot with confidence, as every model is CARFAX certified.