Land Rover and American Red Cross Announce Partnership

IRVINE, Calif. – Land Rover North America and the American Red Cross announced today that Land Rover in the United States will raise funds throughout the coming year to support the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund.

Land Rover's G4 Challenge will raise funds across global markets for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. During 2008/09, each of Land Rover's G4 Challenge supporting markets will participate in activities designed to contribute to their country's Red Cross or Red Crescent society and its specific needs.

The Land Rover G4 Challenge is recognized as one of the world's top off-road driving and adventure events. The 2008/09 Challenge encompasses teams from 18 countries and will culminate with finals in Mongolia in mid-2009. The final Challenge winners will have the honor of donating a Land Rover on behalf of their team to their country's national Red Cross or Red Crescent Society.

Land Rover, over the course of the next two G4 Challenges, will generate over $2,000,000 worldwide for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Funds raised by Land Rover in the U.S. will go directly to the American Red Cross's Disaster Relief Fund. The Disaster Relief Fund allows the Red Cross to provide desperately needed emergency assistance to victims of all disasters, small and large. The fund provides for free assistance, not only to victims of major disasters like the recent Central United States floods and tornadoes, but also to smaller, local disasters, like house fires.

"Land Rover is proud to announce this partnership with the American Red Cross," Chris Marchand, executive vice president of marketing and sales for Land Rover North America, said. "Working with an organization such as the American Red Cross and specifically its Disaster Relief Fund allows us to provide much needed timely support to those most in need across the U.S. This effort is very much in keeping with Land Rover's history of supporting preparedness and response to disasters around the world."

"When disaster strikes, the American Red Cross is there for people, providing them with help and hope. We can only carry out this lifesaving mission with the support of partners such as Land Rover," said Jeffrey T. Towers, chief development officer for the American Red Cross. "We are thankful for Land Rover's support of our Disaster Relief Fund. A strong fund enables us to change lives in communities across the nation."

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like floods and tornadoes by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.

For more information on the Land Rover G4 Challenge visit www.landroverG4challenge.com.

DOUBLE WIN FOR JAGUAR AT AUTO EXPRESS AWARDS 2009

Jaguar's Design Director, Ian Callum, has won the inaugural 'Person of the Year' award at the Auto Express Awards 2009, while one of his most successful designs to date - the Jaguar XF - has been hailed 'Best Executive Car' for the second year running.

David Johns, Editor-in-Chief at Auto Express said: "You only have to look at the new XJ to understand why Ian Callum is the winner of our 'Person of the Year' award. For overseeing the reinvention of a much loved British brand and making Jaguars incredibly desirable and stylish once more, Ian Callum thoroughly deserves this award."

Ian Callum said: "It is a tremendous honour to receive this accolade. To be recognised for my work through the past few years at Jaguar is extremely satisfying. I set out ten years ago on a mission and it is wonderful to see that plan come together and deliver. Part of that mission was to surround myself with what I consider to be the best design team in the industry, so they should be equally proud of this recognition."

The XF proved popular among Auto Express readers earlier this year when it was voted winner of the Driver Power 2009 Reliability and Satisfaction Survey.

David Johns commented: "With a pair of new diesel engine options and a scorching high-performance flagship, the Jaguar XF has gone from strength to strength in the past twelve months. So it should come as no surprise to find the car towering above its rivals at the top of the executive class for a second year running.

"What will raise some eyebrows is that Mercedes' latest E-Class has done little to unsettle the British-built Jag. The XF's closest competitor is the BMW 5-Series – but when it comes to pure owner satisfaction, the Jaguar is simply unbeatable."

The new XF line-up now includes a new 3.0-litre twin sequential diesel engine with a choice of power outputs, a new 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 petrol and the new 5.0-litre supercharged XFR.

Jaguar recently unveiled the all-new Jaguar XJ which is available to order now with first customer deliveries in early 2010.

For more information on the all-new Jaguar XJ, customers can visit www.jaguar.co.uk/allnewxj

SPECIAL TAX BREAK FOR NEW-VEHICLE PURCHASES THIS YEAR

A glimpse of the sun in an otherwise overcast economy? The Internal Revenue Service announced recently that taxpayers who buy a new passenger vehicle this year may be entitled to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase on their 2009 tax returns.
If you’re thinking about buying a new car, truck or SUV, this deduction could enable you to buy now and get cash back later on your tax return, an attractive incentive.

This is particularly good news for Ford shoppers. One of the industry’s most respected nameplates, Mustang, brings a sleek new entry to the table while Taurus, one of the most successful Ford cars in recent history, makes a stunning return to the showroom. The newest gas sippers, the 2010 Ford Fusion and Fusion Hybrid, and the 2010 Mercury Milan and Milan Hybrid, share the title of the most fuel-efficient midsize sedans in America.* The distinctive new Lincoln MKZ also joins the lineup, with a look that’s hard to miss. These are a few of the Ford family highlights.

The deduction applies to any new vehicle purchased after 2/16/09 and before 1/1/10.
Naturally, there are some restrictions and exceptions. To get all the facts, contact the IRS or consult your tax advisor.**

The point is simply this: It’s a great time to buy that Ford, Lincoln or Mercury you’ve had your eye on. Visit your Ford or Lincoln Mercury Dealer for a test-drive or log onto fordvehicles.com,mercuryvehicles.com or lincoln.com to see the great lineup that could earn you a break from the IRS.

*EPA-estimated 23 city/34 hwy/27 combined mpg, Fusion S I-4 automatic and Milan I-4 automatic with Rapid Spec 101A; 41 city/36 hwy mpg, Fusion Hybrid and Milan Hybrid. Actual mileage will vary. Midsize class per R. L. Polk & Co.

**The tax benefit to a purchaser will depend on individual tax circumstances and may be reduced or eliminated based on the purchaser's modified adjusted gross income. Customers should consult their tax advisors or the IRS to confirm processes and the amount of tax deduction that they may claim. For more information, log onto www.irs.gov.

There's never been a better time to give back!

In times like these, there’s never been a better time to give back. So when you test-drive any Ford vehicle between April 21, 2009, and December 31, 2009, Ford will donate $20 on your behalf to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, as part of their ongoing commitment to the fight against breast cancer.

When you test-drive a Ford, you’ll see a real difference. While others tell you there’s no credit available, Ford Credit is ready to help you finance your Ford vehicle. With the Ford Advantage Plan, you can buy or lease a new Ford vehicle and we’ll cover your payments for up to 12 months if you lose your paycheck.* Drive one today.

Last Chance for Cash for Clunkers at Island!

This weekend is your last chance to take advantage of the Cash For Clunkers program at Island Lincoln Mercury! The program has been officially set to end on Monday 8/24/09 !

Hurry in to take advantage of this program before it's too late. We havean amazing selection of new & pre-owned vehicles In Stock & Ready for Delivery!

For more info, call us at 321-452-9220 or email LPanzini@dagmail.com

Read the official press release here:

www.cars.gov/files/Windown%20Release%208.20.pdf

JAGUAR KICKS OFF PEBBLE BEACH WEEKEND WITH ALL-NEW LUXURY CAR DEBUT

The all-new Jaguar XJ brings a bold new spirit to automotive luxury

MAHWAH, N.J., August 13, 2009 – The all-new 2010 Jaguar XJ will make its North American debut at the 59^th Annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Thursday Night Kick-Off Event, held today at Pebble Beach in Monterey, Calif. The debut will be the first shot in the Pebble Beach luxury car showdown in which multiple high end marques are introducing new luxury automobiles.

The Jaguar XJ flagship which goes on sale early 2010 offers a seductive mix of striking design and robust performance made possible by Jaguar's aerospace-inspired lightweight aluminum body technology. The all-new Jaguar XJ will have a starting price of $72,500 MSRP and top out at $115,000 for the 510 hp XJ Supersport.

“Today's challenging economy raises the stakes for luxury marques bringing new products to market,” says Richard Beattie, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Jaguar North America. “Not every new automobile will win the hearts and minds of luxury car buyers. This Pebble Beach weekend is incredibly important in establishing the design and performance credibility of a new luxury automobile. We believe the Jaguar XJ will create tremendous new excitement for the Jaguar brand.”

Built on the success of the XK and XF, the new XJ is the third step in the revitalization of the Jaguar brand and redefines the world's perception of a large sports sedan. The new XJ will be available in both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom without compromising the XJ's trunk, which features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).

The all-new Jaguar XJ brings new standards of sustainability to the luxury vehicle segment. Its lightweight aluminum structure makes it at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction, and is made with 50 percent recycled material allowing the XJ to minimize its carbon footprint and create a potential savings of three tons of CO₂ per vehicle, compared to a body shell made entirely of new aluminum. These aerospace-inspired aluminum body technologies also provide benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.

“We are proud to reveal the all-new Jaguar XJ in Pebble Beach as it marks a major milestone for Jaguar in North America, which is expected to be the world's largest XJ market,” says Beattie. “The debut of our ultimate four-door flagship follows recent recognition for exceptional dependability and clearly demonstrates our commitment to producing the finest cars in the world – fast, beautiful cars that offer luxury, performance and first-rate quality.”

The first impression of the all-new XJ is its visual assertiveness. The XJ’s sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance, and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear.

The all-new XJ offers a modern reinterpretation of a number of key XJ design cues while maintaining the highest standards of personal luxury. This is evident in how the strong, muscular lower half of the car contrasts with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline – a nod to the original 1968 XJ sedan.

A standard panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all-new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear fenders, and feature three dramatic red vertical strips while the elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car’s silhouette. The rear of the all-new XJ is notable for its pure, sculpted shape. With a conscious absence of ornamentation, the rear features only a single leaping Jaguar.

The face of the all-new 2010 XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short overhang contributing to the finely judged proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar’s new design language with a bold and assertive treatment – the powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlights create a strong road presence while the wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars and gives the impression of an exotic "floating" roof.

“The new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar,” says Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars. “Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows; that powerful stance and its wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction.”

The sleek design and refined luxury is continued inside the all-new XJ by mixing newly advanced technologies and contemporary design to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a car cabin. The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space that is enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the center of the instrument panel is an analog clock with individual chrome chaplets, a spun metal face and iridescent blue background; a look inspired by luxury watches.

The all-new XJ's cabin is a marvel in its own right, blending elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully crafted leather and veneer surfaces. To further complement the cabin design is a level of choice in colors, veneers and leathers not seen before in a Jaguar. Four specification levels – XJ, XJL, Supercharged and Supersport – allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes. The top-of-the-range Supersport provides the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather headlining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inlays.

Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual Instruments^TM complement an innovative 8-inch Touch-screen that displays vehicle functions ranging from audio and video to navigation and climate control. Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is standard on the Supercharged and Supersport models. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

The all-new XJ’s beauty is much more than skin-deep. All engines transmit power through an enhanced version of Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission which has a fully-adaptive shift system that delivers extremely smooth gear changes and works to balance performance and economy.

With the XJ, Jaguar has built upon its leading quality performance using the latest virtual product technologies. These proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all-new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (on Supercharged and Supersport) and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and a refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar.

The new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb.-ft. and 461 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. All three engines combine deft performance, unparalleled character, peerless pedigree, and have a classic Jaguar blend of strength and precision.

The all-new 2010 Jaguar XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car’s sleek and alluring appearance, combining responsive, sporting dynamics with the luxurious drive expected from a Jaguar.

All-New Jaguar XJ At-A-Glance

• As the company’s ultimate four-door flagship, the all-new XJ extends the appeal of the legendary XJ line to a new generation of customers.
• The all-new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb. ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb. ft. and 461 lb. ft. of torque, respectively.
• The new XJ features both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom without compromising the XJ’s trunk, which features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).
• The new Jaguar XJ is constructed using Jaguar’s aerospace-inspired aluminum body technology, which makes the XJ at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction; providing benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.
• Key driver aids on the new XJ include Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (available only on Supercharged and Supersport), and Sequential Shift System for manual gear selection, with shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel and quick-ratio power steering.
• The new XJ comes standard with a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a SIRIUS™ satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth® audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which allow the user to connect with iPods®, iPhones™, laptops and Blackberrys®.
• A 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated – and beautifully detailed – Virtual Instruments^TM, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials.
• A panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all-new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside.
• The all-new Jaguar XJ can be ordered today for delivery in early 2010 and will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP.

The All-New XJ Model Line Will Include:

• 5.0-liter naturally aspirated XJ and XJL (385hp) with a $72,500 and 79,500 MSRP, respectively
• 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supercharged (470hp) with a $87,500 and $90,500 MSRP, respectively
• 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supersport (510hp) with a $112,000 and $115,000 MSRP, respectively

2010 Range Rover's looks familiar, driving experience new

By Wes Raynal

The 2010 Range Rover might look the same, but there are so many changes under the skin that it's as if Land Rover jacked up the body and slid a new car underneath.

The exterior changes are subtle. There's a new grille, new headlamps and a new front bumper. The styling changes have softened the car a wee bit, though it's still a gorgeous ute.

The interior design stays roughly the same (if it ain't broke, don't fix it) but materials were upgraded--there's more leather, more wood, more of what Range Rover owners expect. The main dials have been replaced by a really cool TFT screen projecting virtual dials.

Two new direct-injection 5.0-liter V8s are available, normally aspirated and supercharged, both Jaguar/Land Rover developed. The naturally aspirated engine produces 375 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque. That horsepower figure is just 25 hp less than the outgoing supercharged model. Meanwhile, the new supercharged version now cranks out 510 hp and 461 lb-ft. Both engines are mated to a ZF six-speed automatic transmission. The supercharged version will hit 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, more than a second quicker than before.

The suspension now includes what Land Rover claims is the world's first (in a production car) adaptive damping system that measures the road ahead of the vehicle and adjusts the suspension accordingly. There also are bigger brakes to stop the big beast better, and a new stability and roll-control system.

It all works fantastically, we must say. Both new Rovers are quick--the normally aspirated model is almost as fast as the old supercharged model while the new supercharged model is a rocket ship. If anything, Land Rover's 5.9 second 0-to-60-mph claim seems conservative.

The suspension changes and electronic gizmos make the new Rover almost flingable, considering its near 6,000-pound weight. Pushed into corners, the truck feels controlled and body roll is minimal (again, considering other huge utes). Out on the open road, it's smooth and serene. And, of course, the thing will go damn near anywhere. In Spain, we drove it over rocks, up rock walls, down hills, through mud--it took everything we could throw at it.

The normally aspirated car will cost $79,525 while the supercharged car will set you back $95,125. Look for a fall debut.

If you're in the market for a big SUV, start your search here.

Lawmakers Seek 'Clunker' Vouchers for Out-of-Stock Cars -- The Wall Street Journal

08/12/09 by Josh Mitchell

WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration is reviewing a congressional request to allow consumers to use "cash for clunkers" vouchers toward future vehicle purchases as a way to cope with dwindling supplies of many popular, fuel-efficient clunker replacements.

Customers trading in older cars under the program are getting vouchers worth $3,500 or $4,500, depending on the fuel-economy standards of the trade-in, to buy a new car. But if a buyer wants a particular model or color that isn't in stock, the voucher can't be used.

Under the change requested by Reps. Candice Miller and Fred Upton, Michigan Republicans, the voucher could be redeemed even if the dealer has to order the new car from the manufacturer. In that case, the trade-in transaction wouldn't be completed until the new car arrives.

The lawmakers requested the change amid concern that lean stocks of cars and trucks could slow sales and damp the program's impact.

The Department of Transportation is reviewing the proposal, an administration official said Tuesday. The official declined to comment further.

The requested change comes as dealers intensify pressure on auto makers to ramp up production to respond to higher-than-expected consumer demand in the program.

"The inventories of some auto makers and dealers have been so depleted that the program's extension may be limited in its effectiveness," the lawmakers said in a letter to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood.

So far, most major U.S. auto makers have proposed relatively modest production increases following the jump in demand. Auto makers are wary of ordering significant additional production because after the latest $2 billion in federal clunkers money is gone, the market could cool down.

Still, some vehicles popular with consumers using the clunkers program are in tight supply. Ford Motor Co. dealers had just 21 days' worth of the Ford Escape compact crossover utility vehicle on hand as of July 31 -- about one-third the level industry executives used to consider ideal.
Allowing vouchers to be reserved for new orders of vehicles "will allow consumers to purchase the vehicle they want, even if it is not present on the dealer's lot," the letter states.

Through early Tuesday, dealers had requested reimbursement for 292,447 vouchers issued under the clunkers program totaling about $1.23 billion.

The Tiki Grill is Back!

The Island Tiki Grill is back open from Monday through Friday for Breakfast and Lunch. Stop by and enjoy a delicious meal while your vehicle gets serviced!

White House seeks more cash for clunkers; local sales strong

The White House pressured the Senate to replenish “cash for clunkers” Monday, as auto dealers across Central Florida and the rest of the nation continued to register strong sales from eager customers taking advantage of the rebate program.

Robert Gibbs, President Obama’s spokesman, said the CarAllowance Rebate System is up and running but could shut down by Friday if the Senate doesn’t act.

A victim of its own success, CARS ran out of money in its first official week of operation. The House voted to provide another $2 billion before leaving for summer break last week. But the Senate would have to approve that as well before its vacation starts this Friday.

In Central Florida, Jason Tulchinsky, general sales manager forFord of Clermont, said his dealership has done about 25 “clunker” deals since the program began and was continuing to deliver cars to customers.

It will keep on doing that at least through today, regardless of what Congress does or doesn‘t to about adding to the $1 billion in original funding, Tulchinsky said.

“Corporate told us we have at least until midnight Tuesday to log deals — that they will be covered at least through then,” he said.

Jack Starling, general manager of Starling Chevrolet-Cadillac in DeLand, said the clunker program has helped bring in customer traffic to his store.

He said it’s helping to remove a lot of older vehicles from the road and put more people into fuel-efficient cars. “I’m a big fan of that,” he said.

CARS provides consumers with $3,500 or $4,500 in incentives for trading in gas guzzlers. Government officials estimated the original funding would be enough for about 250,000 deals.
The government rebate has had a decidedly positive impact on Ford sales, helping push the company’s July 2009 sales up 2 percent from the same month a year ago, the company said Monday. It was the company’s first U.S. sales increase in nearly two years.

“We had another strong month in progress [even] before the ‘cash for clunkers’ program started,” said Ken Czubay, a Ford vice president of marketing, sales and service.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood ducked when asked if the program will be suspended if the Senate does not vote to replenish coffers before lawmakers go on vacation later this week. Instead, he said “I believe the Senate will pass it this week.”

The administration said the average fuel economy of new vehicles purchased through the program is nearly 10 miles per gallon higher than for the vehicles traded in for scrap.
LaHood said some 80 percent of the traded-in vehicles are pickups or sports utility vehicles, meaning many gas-guzzlers are being taken off the road, and the Ford Focus is a leading replacement vehicle.

Fierce lobbying to extend funding for CARS also came from the National Automobile Dealers Association and the American International Automobile Dealers, which contacted thousands of dealerships, telling them to bombard the Senate with phone calls and e-mails.

“This is the one true stimulus that seems to be working out of all the things that have been tried in the last few months,” said Cody Lusk, president of the international group.

Meanwhile, dealers learned that the $3,500 or $4,500 the government contributes towards the cost of a new car is taxable income for dealers, but not for consumers. Trade organizations last week were suggesting that it would not be taxable for either, but the Internal Revenue Service clarified its position.

And dealers no longer must permanently disable the engines in the “clunker” trade-ins before they apply for the CARS money but must do so within one week of receiving the funds.
This prevents dealers from essentially destroying the value of a clunker before it is learned whether funds remain available to pay for it.

JIM RESNICK APPOINTED NATIONAL PRODUCT COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER FOR JAGUAR LAND ROVER NORTH AMERICA

MAHWAH, N.J. July 28, 2009 – Jim Resnick has been appointed National Product Communications Manager for Jaguar Land Rover North America, effective today. Resnick will report to Stuart Schorr, Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs for Jaguar Land Rover North America and will be responsible for product public relations for both Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

“With the addition of Jim Resnick we now have a fully dual branded Jaguar Land Rover communications team in North America," said Schorr. “Jim brings to the company many years of automotive PR experience and a high level of technical expertise that will help in our mission to be an industry leading communications organization."

Prior to joining Jaguar Land Rover North America, Resnick was the Director of Client Projects at Coyne Communications. Before Coyne, Resnick served as Marketing Communications Manager at Ferrari North America where he was responsible for incoming sponsorships/partnerships and promotions stemming from Ferrari's motorsports-based marketing platform and promoting the brand's integrated businesses across all marketing activities. Jim worked in the communications department at Mercedes-Benz USA from 1999 to 2005, lastly as Department Manager of Public Relations. Prior to entering the public relations field, Jim was an automotive writer and editor, specializing in high performance and European automobiles.

Ford Tops Toyota in Latest Quality Study

By Robert Musial
DEARBORN, July 21, 2009 -- Ford has edged past industry leader Toyota in initial quality in the U.S. for the first time ever, according to the latest Ford quality study.

For the first time in the 28-year history of the Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study, customer satisfaction with Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles has reached its highest level in North America – and now equals Toyota.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles also had the lowest number of defects of any full-line manufacturer with a “things gone wrong” (TGW) score of 1,185.

That bested Toyota’s TGW score of 1,215 – though the two automakers would be considered in a statistical tie. In third place was Honda with 1,291.

The higher the number, the more problems registered per 1,000 vehicles during the first three months of ownership.
The results show that customers are noticing Ford’s focus on quality and customer satisfaction from design through manufacturing, said Mark Fields, president, The Americas.

“This is a major milestone, but we are not satisfied,” he said. “For Ford, our plan is continuous improvement year after year.”

The GQRS and owners’ satisfaction with their vehicle’s overall quality figures were compiled by the RDA Group of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.

In the study, owners are asked to report defects or issues with the new vehicles as well as to rate their satisfaction with vehicle quality on a 1-10 scale across an array of vehicle systems and features.

Two Ford products, the F-150 and the Flex, also were judged the top vehicles in their market segments.

By comparison, Ford’s combined TGW average was 1,319 in the 2008 GQRS.
Bennie Fowler, group vice president, Quality, called the latest results “historic news.”

“We’ve been tied with Toyota before, but it sure feels better to be on the top,” said Fowler.
Such progress, he said, is a result of Ford’s union partners and the work of dedicated teams in product development, purchasing, manufacturing, marketing, sales and service and other areas.

“Quality is truly a team effort,” said Fowler.