Ford Ranks Number one in Customer Loyalty

According to J.D. Power and Associates, the global marketing research firm, Ford and Honda are tied for first in customer loyalty. Their 2010 Customer Retention Study released on Dec. 9th, showed that 62% of Ford and Honda customers will replace their cars with the same brand. The study credits Ford's Edge, F-Series and Fusion models with driving their retention rating, while for Honda, the Accord, CR-V and Pilot did the job.
They were followed closely by Hyundai, Lexus and Toyota, who all scored a 60% retention rate. The laggard of the pack was SAAB with only 4%. Kia posted the greatest improvement from its 2009 score, with a jump of 21 percentage points to 58 percent in 2010.
Overall retention rates for the industry as whole remained stable at 48%, with 16 of the 34 brands studied making gains, and 18 brands either coming in unchanged or losing ground.
Domestic brand loyalty on average has improved slightly, with 2010 coming in at 69% vs. 68% in 2009. Loyalty among imported car owners is even higher, with a score of 90% retention.
Another key statistic tracked by J D Power and Associates, is what they call Conquest rate, or the rate at which automotive brands capture customers from their competitors. "While import brands still have notably higher customer conquest rates than domestic brands, the gap is beginning to narrow," said Raffi Festekjian, director of automotive product research at J.D. Power and Associates.

Highway 402 Winter Emergency

The news this week of the Highway 402 car pileup near Chatham Ontario is a reminder to everyone who lives in a north climate, that winter driving is a seriously matter. A simple trip for over 360 drivers turned into a nightmare, when they became stranded on the highway during an extreme snow storm. Over 200 people had to be rescued by Ontario Provincial Police and the Canadian Armed Forces.
Some managed to find their way to designated emergency, “warming centers” on their own, but some unlucky travelers spent the night in their cars, waiting for up to 30 hours for help. While most people spent the time in relative cold and discomfort, one unfortunate man was found frozen to death in a field, after having abandoned his trapped car in a snow bank.
So remember to drive appropriately for the road and weather conditions, and to always have the necessary emergency supplies on hand for you and your family on all your holiday outings.

Hyundai Going to Rebrand

The Hyundai Motor Corporation has hinting that they will be changing the company’s image and some of its models, in the near future. There is an expectation of some major announcements at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show.
After years of being an “also ran” in the car industry, the company is ready to challenge its competitors. “In the past 10 years, we have been very successful in building an image for quality. From now on, our direction will be defined as new premium or modern premium.” said executive vice-president Cho Won Hong, Hyundai's new global marketing chief, in a recent interview. While the company did not give much detail, it is clear that they wish to be seen as a higher class of automobile brand.
With a solid showing in the JD Power and Associate 2010 Customer Retention Study, a 60% retention rating, and their chief Japanese competitors facing some tough criticism in the media over the past year, Hyundai can only hope to keep the momentum going. Toyota has had to deal with some painful car recalls, and Honda has had to cope with the lackluster sales of its CR-Z, Insight and Acura ZDX in North American.
Hyundai has also stated that their newer high tech offerings the 2011 Sonata Hybrid and Turbo models have be have been selling very well and have a very promising resale value.


[Source: Globe and Mail, Hyundai Motor Corp., the JD Power and Associate]

Ford Canada CEO Predicts Growth in 2011

Ford Canada’s chief executive officer David Mondragon is optimistic about his company’s performance in the New Year. While industry wide car sales in Canada experienced a 5% dip from 2009 to 2010, Ford managed 20% sales growth in both its car and truck divisions.
Ford like all the other car manufactures faces the challenge of maintaining the right mix of vehicles. Before the 2008 financial crisis, automobile dealers relied on North American’s love of SUVs and pickups, which generally have a higher margin. Now, companies will have to offer vehicles that will satisfy consumers that are still concerned about the economy.
"We're growing with a balanced approach with cars, CUVs (Crossover Vehicles) and trucks, and that speaks volumes in terms of our growth potential in the future.” Mondragon said.
Part of Ford’s balanced approach is the new version of their popular Explorer that will be based on a car platform. "It will be state of the art technology, it will also get 30 per cent better fuel economy than the old Explorer," he said.
In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis both General Motors and Chrysler filed for bankruptcy and shed billions in debt and costs with the help of billions from the U.S., Ontario and Canadian governments. Ford did manage to avoid those drastic measures but still had to face major restructuring of their operations.
Ford Canada has assembly plants in Oakville and St. Thomas, Ont., two engine plants in Windsor, Ont., and parts distribution centers in Brampton, Ont., and Edmonton.
(Source: Ford Motor Company of Canada / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

Can Cars be Made Safer for Children?

With over 200 fatalities and more than 15,000 injuries from back-over crashes last year in the US, the Obama Administration is trying to drastically reduce the blind spot on all American built vehicles. The Transportation Department is proposing legislation that would require all passenger cars and buses built after September 2012, to have increased visibility behind the vehicle, so that driving backward will be much safer.

Both Regulators and The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (the main car industry trade group) agree that child safety is the major concern with this legislation, given that more than half of all the deaths associated with this situation are children. "There is no more tragic accident than for a parent or caregiver to back out of a garage or driveway and kill or injure an undetected child playing behind the vehicle," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said.

US regulators believe that the car industries primary response to this legislation will be the addition of a rear-view video camera with a small monitor mounted on the dashboard or rear-view mirror. It’s expected that this technology will increase the cost of a vehicle by about $200, or $1.9 Billion to $2.7 Billion for the industry as a whole. Regulators also assume that the car companies will be able to pass along the price of the safety feature to their customers.

This technology has been around for awhile. Toyota and Ford have already begun to use it in some of their models. There are also after market kits available, ranging in price from $180 to over $400 for a full feature RV or truck model.

[Source: Josh Mitchell, dowjones.com]

Can Cars be Made Safer for Children?

With over 200 fatalities and more than 15,000 injuries from back-over crashes last year in the US, the Obama Administration is trying to drastically reduce the blind spot on all American built vehicles. The Transportation Department is proposing legislation that would require all passenger cars and buses built after September 2012, to have increased visibility behind the vehicle, so that driving backward will be much safer.

Both Regulators and The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (the main car industry trade group) agree that child safety is the major concern with this legislation, given that more than half of all the deaths associated with this situation are children. "There is no more tragic accident than for a parent or caregiver to back out of a garage or driveway and kill or injure an undetected child playing behind the vehicle," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said.

US regulators believe that the car industries primary response to this legislation will be the addition of a rear-view video camera with a small monitor mounted on the dashboard or rear-view mirror. It’s expected that this technology will increase the cost of a vehicle by about $200, or $1.9 Billion to $2.7 Billion for the industry as a whole. Regulators also assume that the car companies will be able to pass along the price of the safety feature to their customers.

This technology has been around for awhile. Toyota and Ford have already begun to use it in some of their models. There are also after market kits available, ranging in price from $180 to over $400 for a full feature RV or truck model.

[Source: Josh Mitchell, dowjones.com]

Can Cars be Made Safer for Children?

With over 200 fatalities and more than 15,000 injuries from back-over crashes last year in the US, the Obama Administration is trying to drastically reduce the blind spot on all American built vehicles. The Transportation Department is proposing legislation that would require all passenger cars and buses built after September 2012, to have increased visibility behind the vehicle, so that driving backward will be much safer.

Both Regulators and The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (the main car industry trade group) agree that child safety is the major concern with this legislation, given that more than half of all the deaths associated with this situation are children. "There is no more tragic accident than for a parent or caregiver to back out of a garage or driveway and kill or injure an undetected child playing behind the vehicle," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said.

US regulators believe that the car industries primary response to this legislation will be the addition of a rear-view video camera with a small monitor mounted on the dashboard or rear-view mirror. It’s expected that this technology will increase the cost of a vehicle by about $200, or $1.9 Billion to $2.7 Billion for the industry as a whole. Regulators also assume that the car companies will be able to pass along the price of the safety feature to their customers.

This technology has been around for awhile. Toyota and Ford have already begun to use it in some of their models. There are also after market kits available, ranging in price from $180 to over $400 for a full feature RV or truck model.

[Source: Josh Mitchell, dowjones.com]

Ford uses recycled blue jeans in next Focus

Ford says it's using recycled clothing, especially jeans, as a way of greening up the Focus. It's not a new concept at Ford. The automaker already makes upholstery in some of its SUVs out of recycled plastic milk bottles.

"Ford is continually looking for greener alternatives," said Carrie Majeske, product sustainability manager. "One of our key goals is to use more recycled or renewable materials without compromising performance or durability. Recycled content is a way to divert waste from landfills and reduce the impact of mining virgin material."

Kia Optima Hybrid debuts at Los Angeles show

Kia Motors is proud to unveil its first-ever hybrid for the North American market,” said Hyoung-Keun Lee, vice-chairman of Kia Motors Corporation. “The new Optima Hybrid features..... Read More http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/optima-hybrid-debuts-angeles/

2011 Forte 5-Door extends Kia’s design-led transformation and aggressive new product launch

The Forte5-Door retains almost all styling cues from the successful Forte sedan. In 2011, both the sedan and 5 door share a common look of the front view noting the familiar Kia signature grille. The sporty hatchback exudes..... Read More http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/forte-5-door-extends-kia%E2%80%99s-design-led/

Change or die: The Chrysler rebirth

Last month, Chrysler Canada sold 80 mid-size cars in the whole country. Disaster. In one of the four big segments in Canada – pickups, crossovers, compact cars and mid-size... Read More: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/change-chrysler-rebirth/

Neil Young warehouse blaze started in hybrid 'LincVolt' car

The three-alarm blaze that caused $1.1 million in damage to a warehouse filled with rock legend Neil Young's music equipment and memorabilia appears to have started in a one-of-a-kind hybrid car stored at the site, a fire.. Read more: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/young-warehouse-blaze-started/

Canadian anti-lemon law puts stickers on bad cars in car yards

Nova Scotia has applied an anti-lemon law to all second-hand car dealers. A ‘lemon’ sticker will be placed on cars that have either been in a serious accident at some point, or... Read More: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/canadian-anti-lemon-stickers-yards/

Prepare your car, home for severe winter weather

Weather experts are saying this could be a cold, wet winter. Here's a few thing you need to know.

WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR CAR

For maximum safety during the winter, carry these items in your vehicle at all times:

• Small shovel and sand or kitty litter.

• Ice scraper and brush.

• Cell phone.

• Safety flares.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

READ MORE:

Never use a USB/Flash stick again - Free Download

Download Dropbox here: http://www.dropbox.com/referrals/NTgwMzI5MzI5. Dropbox provides a folder on your desktop to drag-n-drop files to store online - totally free!

Nissan Frontier and Xterra Recall – Latest Info

Nissan North America Inc. recently announced the recall of its 2002-2004 model Frontier and Xtrerra vehicles, due to a problem.......http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/

FREE VEGAS DRAW - now open!

Hey everyone,

Our long awaited Vegas draw is now open for entries. The winner will receive a trip for two including:

• 3 Nights Stay at a Four Star Hotel
• Round Trip Airfare
• $5000.00 Cash!

ENTER: http://www.carnationcanada.com/latest-community-events/vegas-christmas

Draw closes: Tuesday December 28th, 12:00am
Draw date December 29th, 2010 12:00pm
*Car Nation Canada employees and their immediate family members are not eligible to enter.

Scare Yourself Silly in Niagara Falls

NIAGARA FALLS - According to an official tally kept since the opening in 1998, more than 73,000 people haven’t made it through its darkened...read more: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/scare-silly-niagara-falls/

Nissan recalls 2.1 million vehicles

Nissan said Thursday it is recalling 2.14 million vehicles in the U.S., Japan, Europe and Asia for an ignition problem that may stall the engine. Read http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/nissan-make/nissan-recalls-million-vehicles/

Ontario auto-parts workers rally to protect wages

Union leaders say auto-parts workers are not prepared to give up more of their wages and benefits, or accept proposed two-tier agreements.http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/wp-admin/post-new.php

How the Nissan Leaf is Made

The Nissan leaf will be produced at Nissan’s Oppama Plant along with popular gasoline models such as Nissan Juke and Nissan Cube. Watch video: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/nissan-make/3255/

I Say Break You Say Gas

The driver of this SUV accidentally mistook the gas pedal for the break pedal. Authorities say the crash happened when the driver of the white car hit.. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/break-whooops/

Is the 2014 Ford Start replacing the Ford Ka?

The Ford Start will be powered by... http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/categories/ford-make/start-replacing/

Hyundai-Kia Equus Limo – Official Ride of the G-20

The presidential limo is fully bulletproof, including bulletproof windows, and made of a special kind of alloy. The limousine also features an auto... http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/hyundai-kia-equus-official/

2011 Ford Ranger discontinued in Canada

The new 2011 Ford Ranger debuted at this year’s car show in Australia. The Ford Ranger will be in 180 markets excluding the US and Canada. Why? Find out here: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/make/ford-make/ranger-discontinued-canada/

Canadian company Precision Drilling helps Chilean miners

CALGARY — One of Canada's largest oil drillers has been tapped by the Chilean government to help rescue miners trapped underground for more than a month. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/canadian-company-precision-drilling/

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/toronto/story/2010/10/13/toronto-drunk-driving-video.html?ref=rss#ixzz12KykpTSH

but changes to the law haven’t happened. The CBC focuses on suspended impaired drivers who are still on the roads. Studies show 7/10 people who have their license suspended get back behind the wheel. What are your thoughts on this?
How should we prevent this? Watch Video: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/toronto/story/2010/10/13/toronto-drunk-driving-video.html?ref=rss#ixzz12KykpTSH

Good Samaritans Paul & Gino Receive Thanks

The following thank you letter was received after from 401 Dixie KIA helped repair a strangers car which broke down on their trip to Ontario: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/samaritans-receive/

The Pros and Cons of Buying New and Used Cars

Dave Hartener helps Donna make an informed decision weather to by a new or used car. He discusses financing options, warranties, and common sense. Read more: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/buying/

Run Piggy Run

A truck caring 235 pigs overturned on the Gardner Expressway in Toronto this morning. 60 pigs managed to have escaped. Although they are not considered armed or dangerous authorities advise not to try to apprehend one yourself. Read more: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/toronto/story/2010/10/04/pigs-highway.html?ref=rss

2011 Dodge Grand Caravan Burlington – Testimonial Video

“Everyone was so helpful and so pleasant, it couldn’t have been better!” – Ms. Davis This testimonial is from the Davis family who purchased a new 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan from Unique Chrysler in Burlington Ontario. Unique Chrysler is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/testimonials/2011-dodge-grand-caravan-burlington/

Mississauga Man faces drunk driving charges in fatal crash

45-year old Mississauga man has been charged with a number of offences including impaired driving causing death in connection to a crash that killed a woman and left her six-year-old daughter fighting for her life. More: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/mississauga-faces-drunk-driving/

CAA strike averted in Ontario

A strike at CAA offices in southern Ontario has been averted after weekend negotiations, the company said in a release late Sunday. Read more: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/strike-averted-ontario/

2011 Ford F-150, an AW Flash Drive

The 2011 F-150 gets four new engines: two V8s and two V6s. New is relative--they are new to the F-150 but are already doing duty in other Fords and Lincolns. The base engine is the naturally aspirated, 302-hp, 278-lb-ft, 3.7-liter V6. Read more: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/f-150-flash-drive/

Nude motorist frightens off wannabe car thief

The owner of a Peugeot on the verge of being stung by a car thief says he foiled the robbery by arriving on the scene naked.http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/motorist-frightens-wannabe-thief/

New 2011 Lincoln MKX - Brantford

The new 2011 Lincoln MKX recently had a major facelift. Read the review: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/make/lincoln-make/lincoln-brantford/

New 2010 Dodge Caravan Testimonial - Burlington

“We got exactly what we wanted and it was easy, very easy” – Mr. Whyte

This testimonial is from the Whyte family who purchased a new 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan from Unique Chrysler in Burlington Ontario. Unique Chrysler is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships.
http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/testimonials/dodge-caravan-testimonial-whyte/

“We got exactly what we wanted and it was easy, very easy” – Mr. Whyte

This testimonial is from the Whyte family who purchased a new 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan from Unique Chrysler in Burlington Ontario. Unique Chrysler is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships.
http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/testimonials/dodge-caravan-testimonial-whyte/

New Dodge Caravan Testimonial - Burlington

This testimonial is from Jennifer & Craig who purchased a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan from Unique Chrysler in Burlington Ontario. Unique Chrysler is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships.
Quote from testimonial
Jennifer: “The service was wonderful”

http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/testimonials/dodge-caravan-testimonial-burlington/

New Ford Fusion Testimonial – Brantford

This testimonial is from Kelly who purchased a new 2010 Ford Fusion from Northway Ford in Brantford Ontario. Northway Ford is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships.
Kelly: “Hi, my name is Kelly and I just bought a 2010 Ford Fusion from Northway Ford. It was a great experience and I highly recommend you coming here to get your car!”

http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/testimonials/fusion-testimonial-brantford/

Used Ford F-150 Lariat Testimonial - Brantford

Used Ford F-150 Lariat Testimonial - Brantford
This testimonial is from Alex who purchased a Ford F-150 Lariat Truck from Northway Ford in Brantford Ontario. Northway Ford is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships.
Alex: “A pleasant to work with you guys!”
http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/congratulations/f-150-lariat-testimonial-brantford/

2009 Hyundai Elantra Testimonial - 401 Dixie Kia Mississauga

This testimonial is from Julia who purchased a 2009 Hyundai Elantra from 401 Dixie Kia in Mississauga. 401 Dixie Kia is part of the Car Nation Canada group of auto dealerships.
Julia: “Your staff is so personable, of course you have a great dealership with amazing cars, a great brand. I think your best advertisement is word of mouth with how great your staff and products are. Kia is great!
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Staged collisions as insurance fraud on rise in Ontario

Warning: Reading this column may change the way you drive and diminish your trust in fellow motorists: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/staged-collisions-insurance-fraud/

2010 Ford Fiesta Review

Finally! For years North Americans have had to sit and wonder about all the great little Ford cars available in Europe that we don't get here, but no more. Say hello to the new Ford Fiesta. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/fiesta-review/

Auto dealer faces $250K fine in deadly blast

A Nova Scotia auto dealer has pleaded guilty in a deadly explosion at a Dartmouth body shop two and a half years ago: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/dealer-faces-250k-deadly-blast/

2011 Ford Explorer in Dubai – test drive video

Look at the 2011 Ford Explorer digging through the sand in the brutal Dubai climate: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/explorer-dubai-drive-video/

Drive Safe Campaign Video - contains disturbing images

This video demonstrates what happens every day because people don't drive as safe as possible. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/drive-campaign-video-disturbing/

“Car-hopping” thefts on rise in Durham Ontario

Car-hopping” — where burglars check for unlocked vehicle doors and then snatch prized items — occurs up to 10 times a day, every day in Durham Region, police said Wednesday. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/car-hopping-thefts-durham/

Funny YouTube Video - A sales man created a mock video for his competitor. This video contains harsh language and its not suited for younger viewers. http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/80773621/

18HR Traffic Jam Hell

A driver takes a nap under his truck jammed on an entrance ramp to the Beijing-Tibet Highway in Guoleizhuang township, in north China's Hebei province, on Aug. 23 http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/traffic/

Kia Canada Recalling 4,500 Vehicles

Kia Canada is recalling about 4,500 cars to fix possible faulty wiring that could start fires. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/canada-recalling-4500-vehicles/

Ontario Auto Insurance Premiums Skyrocket

It’s going to get a lot more expensive to drive in Ontario starting today, as a raft of automobile insurance changes take effect. Read more: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/insurance-premiums-ontario-skyrocket/

O% for Five Whole Years from KIA - have you ever heard of a better deal?

KIA is offering incentives like you've never seen before - or will never see again. Visit our blog for more details: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/financing-years-payments-2010my/

Drug-impaired driving in Canada?

Drug-impaired driving is as common as drinking, and police will soon be checking. http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2010/08/30/f-drug-driving-alcohol-beirness.html

Ford Canada has best August in 20 years

Oakville, Ont.-based Ford Canada said Wednesday its August auto sales rose eight per cent from the same month a year earlier, to 24,034 cars and light trucks. http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/canada-august-years/

Canadian New Vehicle Sales at a 3 Year High

New vehicle sales reached the highest level in nearly three years this summer. Find out why: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/canadians-buying-more-bigger/

Mitsubishi’s electric car, the i-MiEV hits Canada.

Mitsubishi Motors has begun testing its electric car in Canada: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/mitsubishis-electric-i-miev/

Sneek Preview of New Nissan Commercials!

Watch the un-released Nissan commercials: http://www.carnationcanada.com/blog/news/sneek-preview-nissan-commercials/

Deerhurst vacation winner Chris Zolis - another giveaway from Car Nation Canada

Chris Zolis won our draw! Watch him receive his prize!

Janis and Neil from Car Nation Canada present Chris Zolis with his prize. Chris filled out our free online ballot to win a vacation to Deerhurst resort in Ontario.

His prize included:
* Junior Suite accommodation for family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children)
* Two breakfasts and two dinners for two on our MAP meal plan, including gratuity
* Resort credit $200 for sports activities
* Four green fees for choice of Deerhurst Lakeside or Deerhurst Highlands golf courses
* Admission for four to the Decades stage show Splash passes for 4, providing access to the inflatable water park on the lake, canoes and kayaks

Join our Facebook page to find out how you can win!
http://www.facebook.com/CarNationCanada

Deerhurst vacation winner Chris Zolis - another giveaway from Car Nation Canada

Chris Zolis won our draw! Watch him receive his prize!

Janis and Neil from Car Nation Canada present Chris Zolis with his prize. Chris filled out our free online ballot to win a vacation to Deerhurst resort in Ontario.

His prize included:
* Junior Suite accommodation for family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children)
* Two breakfasts and two dinners for two on our MAP meal plan, including gratuity Taxes on package components. Additional food, beverages and incidentals will be extra. Transportation not provided. Prize must be taken as provided. Some conditions may apply.
* Resort credit $200 for sports activities
* Four green fees for choice of Deerhurst Lakeside or Deerhurst Highlands golf courses
* Admission for four to the Decades stage show Splash passes for 4, providing access to the inflatable water park on the lake, canoes and kayaks

Join our Facebook page to find out how you can win!
http://www.facebook.com/CarNationCanada