Winner of U.S. Websites and Experience Optimization

BURLINGTON, April 1, 2020 – Dealer.com, the premier end-to-end digital marketing solution and partner for automotive dealerships, was recognized for its outstanding website performance and personalization capabilities; winning two categories in PCG Companies 13th annual Automotive Website Awards (AWAs). Dealer.com was honored among many of the industry’s leading automotive digital marketing vendors and most innovative products in 2020.  

“With new technology capable of transforming dealer websites into full-service Digital Storefronts and data optimization that delivers topnotch personalized digital experiences, we are helping dealers make evolving consumer behavior work to their advantage while driving long-term customer loyalty,” said Bob George, assistant vice president of product management at Dealer.com. “It’s an incredible honor to be recognized with these AWA accolades in areas that we take so much pride in, our website platform and data optimization.”

Dealer.com solutions received the following awards for U.S. Websites and Digital Marketing, a third AWA win for Dealer.com Experience Optimization:

• U.S. WEBSITES: Dealer.com Websites 

Dealer.com websites are fueled by user experience research, data science and exclusive integrations with Cox Automotive brands. By leveraging all the data across multiple brands, the Dealer.com website can provide a notably more relevant and personalized experience for the shopper. Responding to consumer demand, these websites are evolving into highly-detailed comparison spaces, delivering a digital storefront that is a true extension of the full-service showroom experience. Websites are designed to meet consumer expectations for personalization, speed, search, inventory comparison, mobile capabilities, merchandising efficiency and ADA accessibility.  

• DIGITAL MARKETING: Dealer.com Experience Optimization

Dealer.com’s Experience Optimization technology harnesses the power of Cox Automotive data  to connect shoppers with inventory recommendations as well as vehicle and fixed operations specials most relevant to them in real-time. With the ability to understand the buying signals of 75% of automotive consumers, Cox Automotive connects those data points to build consumer profiles of more than 125 million households. This avenue provides a more holistic view of the buying cycle—and allows Dealer.com to serve website content relevant to both inventory and service customers—versus simply responding to prior search behaviors. Personalized inventory recommendations drive 2.5X more VDP views and 12% more leads[1]

This year’s AWAs were presented at the 2020 NADA Conference in Las Vegas, Nev. by hosts Glenn Pasch, CEO of PCG Digital and Beth Braswell. Over 150 industry leaders and outstanding contributors to automotive innovation were in attendance to honor this year’s especially impressive lineup of nominees and winners. For more information and the full list of all AWA award winners, visit  http://awa.autos/.

About Dealer.com

Dealer.com is the premier digital marketing solution for the automotive industry. Providing an integrated platform of Websites, Advertising, Digital Retailing and Managed Services, Dealer.com allows OEMs, dealer groups, retailers and agencies to leverage advanced digital technology, data and insights to deliver the shortest, fastest and most personalized path to customer engagement. The company practices a deep commitment to its culture of progress, with a focus on community, health, and wellness. Based in Burlington, Vermont, Dealer.com is a Cox Automotive brand. For more information, visit www.dealer.com

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®,are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

[1] Dealer.com 2017 A/B Shopper Engagement Study

ATLANTA, Ga., February 19, 2020 – A new car’s exterior design may get noticed first, but in reality, drivers spend most of their time inside their vehicle. An expensive, high-performance sports car can feel cheapened by a lackluster interior, and an economy car with an above-average cabin can feel much more expensive than it really is. To help car buyers look beyond a new car’s outward appearance and focus more on the beauty within, the experts at Autotrader recently named the 10 Best Car Interiors Under $50,000 for 2020.

“Most people spend several hours inside their vehicles each week, so interior features are extremely important when determining which new car to buy,” said Tara Trompeter, managing editor for Autotrader. “While you could shell out big money and get an interior that fits the price tag, a little research can reveal many new cars that cost less and give you more when it comes to cabin fit and finish. We placed the price cap for this list at $50,000, with many of the selected vehicles coming in well below that figure. You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to get a nice interior.”

Any of the models on this year’s list of the 10 Best Car Interiors Under $50,000 will make driving more enjoyable, whether for a daily commute or an extended road trip. Check out the latest selections for 2020 (unranked and listed below in alphabetical order):

Autotrader’s 10 Best Car Interiors Under $50,000 for 2020

For more details and information about Autotrader’s 10 Best Car Interiors Under $50,000 for 2020, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/10-best-car-interiors-under-50000-2020-281474979988774.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com. 

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

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ATLANTA, Ga., February 18, 2020 – Autotrader teamed up with Turner Sports and the National Basketball Association for the fourteenth consecutive year to empower a deserving organization with the donation of a new vehicle, presented this year to recipients from the Business Women Empowerment Project, Inc. (BWEP).

During the regular NBA season, hosts of the Emmy® Award-winning Inside the NBA studio team – Ernie Johnson, Shaquille O'Neal, Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley – faced off in the Autotrader All-Star Drive fantasy basketball challenge. During TNT NBA Tip-Off presented by Autotrader, hosts selected the player that they thought would be the top performer during that night's TNT double-header with the winner receiving a donation of a new vehicle to the charity of his choice, courtesy of Autotrader.

This year's winner, Shaquille O’Neal, chose to benefit BWEP, a non-profit organization committed to empowering women with access to resources that explore and expand their business through a network of knowledgeable and successful achievers. BWEP is launching a new leadership program in 2020 for high school girls (ages 16-18) who may not have a clear path or direction on what they want to do after graduating high school. This new program will help teen girls learn leadership and entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy and other abilities that will guide them toward success.

Members of BWEP were completely surprised with an appearance by O’Neal during a recent meeting for their organization. O’Neal then furthered their astonishment by personally delivering the good news about the donation of a brand new 2020 Kia Sorento courtesy of Autotrader to further enable their charitable efforts. BWEP plans to use the new car in conjunction with the mentorship events they facilitate for teenage girls in the metro Atlanta area. 

“At Autotrader, donating a new vehicle to help empower an organization making a difference in our community is one of our favorite things we get to do every year,” said Greta Crowley, vice president of marketing for Autotrader. “We understand what a game-changer it can be for a nonprofit to receive a new car as a donation, and we get excited thinking about how the winning organization can further its mission and goals with help from new transportation. Meaningful partnerships allow us to give back through charitable organizations, highlighting Autotrader’s ongoing commitment to serve our local communities.”

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com),

at https://www.linkedin.com/company/autotrader-com, and follow us on LinkedIn.

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com. 

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

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BURLINGTON, February 5, 2020 – Dealer.com, a leading automotive industry end-to-end digital marketing solution, announces new enhancements to its digital storefront during the runway to the 2020 NADA Show. The company’s latest offering harnesses Cox Automotive data – the largest collection of automotive shopping behavior insights available – to ensure dealers have the tools necessary to deliver unrivaled consumer experiences, forging the shortest and most personalized path to customer engagement and dealership growth.

With brands from all categories bombarding shoppers, there has never been a more critical time for dealers to capture consumer mindshare by delivering tailored experiences that capitalize on available intelligence and technology. The industry is at an inflection point; to remain relevant and competitive, dealers must prepare themselves for the ride.

Through new leading-edge capabilities designed to bring ease and efficiency for the consumer wherever they are in the buying process, Dealer.com’s digital storefront experience tailors every interaction based on individual consumer demands. This level of personalization gives dealers the ability to build stronger customer relationships to help ensure enduring growth in a volatile consumer climate. The progressive site architecture is built for speed, security and flexibility to serve dealers today and well into the future. Beyond technology, Dealer.com’s team of experts use their years of experience to guide and develop a digital strategy that brings in buyers.

"The combination of Dealer.com’s new end-to-end technologies and services powered by Cox Automotive data insights are invaluable resources for dealers, providing car buyers with the most dynamic, efficient and personalized online shopping experience available,” said Wayne Pastore, vice president and general manager of Dealer.com. “With our new technology as the industry benchmark for dealership website experiences, dealers can meet the evolving high demands and shopping preferences of their customers, ultimately taking their sales success to new heights.”

Dealer.com enhancements for 2020 include:

- Reputation Management offers coordinated consumer review and response management, including Google My Business review optimization, that reinforces a dealer’s customer service commitment online, strengthens local SEO, and turns every customer interaction into a selling tool. Auto dealership reviews influence more than half of consumers[1]. The Reputation Management solution allows dealers to proactively monitor and respond to all ratings and reviews – increasing review volume – to drive higher Consumer Satisfaction Index (CSI) scores, increased consumer engagement and shopper loyalty. 

- Turnkey Video Advertising provides scalable, dynamic video content that leverages Cox Automotive’s unique audience and householding data for dealers looking to promote their inventory on high-engagement social channels like Facebook and YouTube. With nearly four million automotive videos viewed on YouTube each day[2] and many consumers abandoning cable TV, video consumption among automotive shoppers is growing rapidly. Dealers that may lack resources or expertise now can enjoy barrier-free access to high-quality video assets and advertising content. Tailored video solutions are also available, leveraging OEM and dealership footage to develop creative that brings customer engagement to the next level.

- Dynamic Inventory Search experience delivers the crucial inventory information consumers need to advance their shopping journey. A brand new UX-driven Search Result Page experience (SRP) appeals to a modern, mobile-reliant consumer, offering larger vehicle images, a multi-photo carousel, tabbed content and customizable page design to fit individual dealer needs.

- Free-Form Search is all-new, full-site, and now includes predictive recommendations and intelligence to handle misspellings, ensuring consumers will find what they’re looking for.

- Fixed Operations Advertising, Managed Services and Website Personalization highlights a dealer’s service department utilizing Cox Automotive data to deliver service-related specials and coupons to vehicle owners identified as in-market for local service. Additionally, thanks to a new integration between Dealer.com and Xtime, dealers automatically can target shoppers looking for local service with relevant fixed ops advertising content.

In addition to these product enhancements, Dealer.com continues to invest heavily in a Performance Management model that helps reach more relevant shoppers by properly leveraging all of the digital marketing tools within the Dealer.com suite to help dealers achieve their business goals in the most efficient manner possible. The client service team dominates with excellence by listening, learning and making continuous progress on solutions to deliver enduring value to dealers. As consumer buying expectations and shopping behaviors shift, dealers need to invest in digital solutions that bring delight to consumers. Dealer.com combines these innovations with extensive consumer intelligence to bring dealers the tools to build their best digital storefront.

To learn more about Dealer.com’s 2020 NADA product announcements, visit Booth #2629C or book a demo at https://www.dealer.com/demo.

About Dealer.com

Dealer.com is the premier digital marketing solution for the automotive industry. Providing an integrated platform of Websites, Advertising, Digital Retailing and Managed Services, Dealer.com allows OEMs, dealer groups, retailers and agencies to leverage advanced digital technology, data and insights to deliver the shortest, fastest and most personalized path to customer engagement. The company practices a deep commitment to its culture of progress, with a focus on community, health, and wellness. Based in Burlington, Vermont, Dealer.com is a Cox Automotive brand. For more information, visit www.dealer.com.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

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IRVINE, Calif., February 5, 2020 – While many shoppers think negotiating a good deal up front is the best way to save money when buying a new vehicle, choosing a car with low ownership costs can create even greater savings over time.  Purchase price is only one of the many costs associated with vehicle ownership. Once shoppers consider the ongoing costs of fuel, maintenance, insurance and more, the overall financial picture can change significantly from model to model. To help in-market shoppers buy smart and save money, Kelley Blue Book’s experts today name the 2020 model-year brand and category winners of the ninth annual 5-Year Cost to Own Awards. These awards recognize new vehicles with the lowest projected ownership costs over the initial five-year ownership period. 

“Our 5-Year Cost to Own information breaks down typical ownership costs to help shoppers evaluate the impactful out-of-pocket expenses they will incur over time beyond the initial price paid,” said Eric Ibara, director of 5-Year Cost to Own for Kelley Blue Book. “Subaru claims the top brand position for the second year in a row, right on the heels of winning a Kelley Blue Book award for Best Resale Value Brand of 2020. Accordingly, Subaru’s key advantage in claiming the top brand ownership cost award is its high residual value, which lowers depreciation costs. In addition, Acura claims the top luxury brand prize with several key models in its lineup performing well above the segment average in many vehicle ownership cost categories.”

Available on Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com for new models, 5-Year Cost to Own information takes into consideration depreciation, expected fuel costs, finance and insurance fees, maintenance and repair costs, and state fees. This data allows consumers to see the big picture of what a new vehicle will cost them over time, helping shoppers save money by choosing a vehicle that best meets their needs and their long-term budget.

2020 Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Award Winners

2020 KELLEY BLUE BOOK 5-YEAR COST TO OWN AWARD: BRAND

SUBARU

2020 KELLEY BLUE BOOK 5-YEAR COST TO OWN AWARD: LUXURY BRAND

ACURA  

2020 KELLEY BLUE BOOK 5-YEAR COST TO OWN AWARDS: BY VEHICLE CATEGORY

COMPACT CAR:  Hyundai Elantra

MID-SIZE SUV – 3-ROW:  Mitsubishi Outlander

MID-SIZE CAR:  Honda Accord

FULL-SIZE SUV:  Chevrolet Tahoe

FULL-SIZE CAR:  Chevrolet Impala

LUXURY SUBCOMPACT SUV:  Lexus UX

ENTRY-LEVEL LUXURY CAR:  Acura ILX

LUXURY COMPACT SUV:  Lexus NX

LUXURY CAR:  Volvo V90

LUXURY MID-SIZE SUV – 2-ROW:  Lexus RX

SPORTS CAR:  Fiat 124 Spider

LUXURY MID-SIZE SUV – 3-ROW:  Acura MDX

HYBRID/ALTERNATIVE ENERGY CAR:  Toyota Corolla Hybrid

LUXURY FULL-SIZE SUV:  Infiniti QX80

ELECTRIC VEHICLE:  Nissan LEAF

OFF-ROAD SUV:  Jeep Wrangler

SUBCOMPACT SUV:  Hyundai Venue

MID-SIZE PICKUP TRUCK:  Toyota Tacoma

COMPACT SUV:  Subaru Forester

FULL-SIZE PICKUP TRUCK:  Chevrolet Silverado 1500 

MID-SIZE SUV – 2-ROW:  Hyundai Santa Fe

MINIVAN:  Chrysler Voyager

(2020 model-year vehicles’ projected ownership costs are based on the average Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own data for the initial five-year ownership period).

Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own information is developed using Kelley Blue Book® Residual Values to calculate depreciation costs. Kelley Blue Book calculates total ownership costs for new vehicles by applying a sophisticated valuation methodology along with critical financial data from third-party providers.  

For more information about the 2020 5-Year Cost to Own Award winners, please visit https://www.kbb.com/articles/best-cars/lowest-5-year-cost-to-own-cars-trucks-suvs/.

To discuss this topic, or any other automotive-related information, with a Kelley Blue Book analyst on-camera via the company’s on-site studio, please contact a member of the Public Relations team to schedule an interview.

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb, and follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kbb_com/ (or @kbb_com). 

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Each week the company provides market-reflective values on its top-rated website KBB.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In Values and Kelley Blue Book® Price Advisor tool, which provides a range for what consumers can reasonably expect to pay for a vehicle in their area. Car owners looking to sell immediately can also get a redeemable, transaction-ready offer with Kelley Blue BookSM Instant Cash Offer. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies, and governmental agencies. Kelley Blue Book is a Cox Automotive brand.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

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ATLANTA, February 4, 2020 – With the NADA Show 2020 on the horizon, Autotrader is taking the lead with bold new solutions to improve consumers’ online car-shopping experiences and increase a dealer’s return on investment. As a digital retailing pioneer and one of the most-used third-party car listing sites, Autotrader drives into the new decade prioritizing product innovation and introducing enhancements that make the consumer experience seamless and personalized, ultimately delivering more quality leads and higher profits to dealers.

Autotrader’s newest enhancements focus on providing a more relevant and engaging online experience for car shoppers, while helping dealers take a data-driven, personalized approach toward accomplishing their goals. From implementing a search fueled by a proprietary and data-driven relevancy algorithm, to reducing page load time and improving site navigation, to introducing more helpful tools, content and personalized inventory listings, now shoppers can view the most relevant dealer inventory at a faster, more engaging rate on Autotrader, and dealers can better connect with in-market shoppers both on and off the site.

“I talk with dealers every day about how the car-shopping process is changing as consumers demand a more personalized shopping experience, so for dealers to really be successful in 2020 and beyond, they should adopt a consumer-centric approach,” said Jessica Stafford, senior vice president and general manager, Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book. “To help in this process, Autotrader is taking the lead to ensure dealers are equipped to deliver on these evolving consumer expectations. And we are committed to more bold innovation moving forward, reducing friction from the car buying experience and continuing to bridge the gap between consumer and dealer to ensure a transparent, flexible and seamless experience for both sides of the transaction.”

Over the last year, Autotrader has gone through an aggressive transformation to improve its website and products, building a stellar consumer experience and delivering more value for its dealer clients with new advanced solutions. There is a focus on gathering quality, vetted leads to real potential customers, driving higher profits and close rates than Autotrader’s top competitors - an average 71% increase in gross profits per lead than the closest competitor[1]. 

Some Autotrader enhancements slated for 2020 include:

- Innovative Display Solutions:

Increase Offsite Exposure with Advanced Ads – Advanced Ads give dealers additional exposure for their inventory with offsite retargeting display ads served to consumers based on their Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book shopping history, also leveraging these trusted brands in partnership with the dealer’s brand to provide shopper confidence. Shoppers see relevant inventory in these offsite ads that drive additional activity to vehicle detail pages and dealer websites, increasing repeat exposure with highly qualified audiences off the Autotrader website. Available as an add-on to any paid listing package, Advanced Ads offer a lower-cost and targeted offsite media display option, allowing dealers to be in control by setting their spend and targeting, as well as prioritizing which inventory to display.

Target Shoppers Throughout Their Journey with eLot – eLot is a new inventory carousel display unit that features a dealer’s most relevant inventory with exclusive placements on the homepage and other pages within the experience of both Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. Targeting real-time shoppers during their valuation process, eLot increases impact and exposure by displaying the most relevant inventory available to the right consumers throughout their shopping journey.

- Optimize Relevant Inventory Display in Real-Time with Adaptive Analytics – The nVision dashboard is an industry-leading tool that uses aggregated proprietary Cox Automotive data to empower dealers with actionable insights to maximize their Autotrader investments. nVision helps dealers improve their business by driving more relevant leads and conversions with detailed insights into important factors like inventory age, pricing, penetration and likelihood to sell. Real-time inventory data drives insights to allow dealers to go beyond just reporting on their past digital investments, helping them to make optimizations to drive the best results.

- Cutting-Edge Listing Enhancements That Deliver Results

Never Miss a Lead with Managed Chat and Text: With managed chat and optimized text capabilities on Autotrader, dealers can ensure they never miss a lead and engage with consumers in the way they want with seamless integration. Shoppers are looking to quickly get the answers they need to help make informed decisions. Adding mobile messaging can increase consumer engagement up to 40%[2]. New features allow consumers to contact dealers directly on Autotrader, around-the-clock, seven days a week, for ultimate flexibility and convenience. The service provides a response with professionally trained agents, including after-hours or when dealers otherwise would be unavailable. Leads are then delivered directly to a dealer’s CRM for easy follow-up. Anticipate the types of information car shoppers want and send it to them on the channel they prefer with this leading improvement in proactive customer service.

Search Listings On Command: Listings on Autotrader are now available through a new voice app for Google Assistant and Alexa to aid shoppers in finding the right vehicle on devices they already are using. More than 111 million people in the U.S. use a voice assistant at least monthly[3]. This is another way Autotrader is giving dealers opportunities to extend the reach of listings, by getting in front of more consumers in more places.

Embrace High-Performance Digital Retailing with Accelerate: Autotrader’s Accelerate My Deal provides the faster digital buying experience consumers want with the control and profitability that dealers need. With Accelerate, dealers can start to pencil deals right from their Autotrader listings online with the flexibility they need to complement their existing dealership process. Seven in 10 consumers say they are more likely to buy from a dealership if they could start the process online[4]. Consumers are happier to begin the process online and reduce the time spent in dealership, and dealers gain a new way to connect with in-market shoppers and ultimately sell more cars.

The 2020 NADA Show will be held February 14-17, 2020, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To learn more about these new products and enhancements, visit Autotrader at the 2020 NADA Convention and Expo, booth # 2536 Central Hall.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader

Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

# # #

ATLANTA, January 30, 2020 – Winter weather is in full swing from coast to coast, with wet, snowy and icy roads challenging drivers across the nation. To help shoppers find cars that are both fun and safe to drive during the winter months, the experts at Autotrader named the 10 Coolest Cars for Winter 2020.

“While there’s no substitute for cautious driving and common sense when it comes to inclement weather, choosing a vehicle with four-wheel or all-wheel drive can also make a world of difference in both safety and performance,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “If you live in a place where winter regularly wreaks havoc on the roads, it’s definitely worth considering all-wheel drive in your next new-car choice for that reassuring extra traction.”

The Autotrader editors recently compiled a list of some of the most-searched cars, trucks and SUVs available with four- or all-wheel drive, and then used their collective wisdom and expert opinions to narrow down the decidedly subjective determination of which are the coolest. Whether drivers are going on an off-road winter excursion or just interested in a safer commute, below are Autotrader’s 10 Coolest Cars for Winter 2020 (listed in alphabetical order).

Autotrader’s 10 Coolest Cars for Winter 2020

For more details and information about Autotrader’s 10 Coolest Cars for Winter 2020, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/10-coolest-cars-winter-2020-281474979988546.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com. 

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

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IRVINE, Calif., January 21, 2020 – Many new-car buyers have heard the common expression, “penny-wise and pound-foolish.” As it relates to new-car shopping, you can save money buying a less expensive new car, but later find out it depreciates faster than a similar, more expensive car that holds its value better. The money you save on a new-car purchase can be more than made up for by the greater depreciation five years later. Understanding what a vehicle will be worth when going to sell or trade it in can make the difference of hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in the long run. To help new-car buyers shop smart, Kelley Blue Book today announces the 2020 model-year brand, category and top 10 winners of the annual Best Resale Value Awards, recognizing vehicles for their projected retained value through the initial five-year ownership period.

“Kelley Blue Book’s analysts are impressed at the residual values of our Best Resale Value: Brand winners, Subaru and Porsche, and new-car shoppers would be wise to consider a vehicle from one of those two brands to get the most bang for their buck in the long term,” said Eric Ibara, director of residual values for Kelley Blue Book. “Once again, this year’s Top 10 models are dominated by trucks, except for the all-new and much-hyped 2020 Chevrolet Corvette appearing on this year’s list. Without the imminent prospect of significantly higher gas prices, the used-car demand for trucks continues to be an ongoing, multi-year trend, directly impacting new cars.”

This year marks the fourth Best Resale Value: Brand win for Subaru, which previously won the same honors in 2011, 2015 and 2016. For 2020, Porsche celebrates its fourth consecutive win as Best Resale Value: Luxury Brand.

(Residual values used for award calculations are based on the 2020 model-year vehicles that appear in the January/February 2020 Kelley Blue Bookâ Residual Value Guide. Top 10 models appear in alphabetical order.)

Many new-car buyers do not realize that depreciation often is the greatest expense incurred by drivers during the first five years of vehicle ownership. An average 2020 model-year vehicle will only retain about 37% of its original value after a five-year ownership period, meaning that a $35,000 new car today will only be worth somewhere close to $12,950 after five years. In comparison, all vehicles in Kelley Blue Book’s Top 10 for Best Resale Value are projected to retain more than 50% of their MSRP. This year’s top model, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma, is expected to be worth 61% of its MSRP after five years.

Resale value for new vehicles can vary greatly. Vehicles with average or below-average resale values generally are plentiful in the marketplace and easy to find, but certain vehicles are projected to hold their value better than others. While much of a vehicle’s resale value is based on supply and demand, as well as current and projected future market conditions, vehicles that retain their value best typically are discounted the least and tend to generate high levels of consumer interest.

Now in its 18th year, Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book® Official Residual Value Guide. Kelley Blue Book® Residual Values are established by experienced automotive analysts that review the output from statistical models built upon millions of transactions. Vehicles that earn the highest five-year residual values, expressed as a percentage of their original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), are selected for these prestigious awards. Low-volume vehicles are excluded from award consideration, except in the electric, luxury and sports car categories.

Residual values reflect projected future auction values for vehicles in average condition with 75,000 miles at the end of a five-year lease or ownership period. Kelley Blue Book’s residual values are used by manufacturers, banks, financial institutions and the automotive leasing industry. For more information about Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards, visit https://www.kbb.com/articles/best-cars/2020-best-resale-value-awards-top-cars-trucks-and-suvs/.

To discuss this topic, or any other automotive-related information, with a Kelley Blue Book analyst on-camera via the company’s on-site studio, please contact a member of the Public Relations team to schedule an interview.

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kelleybluebook (or @kelleybluebook), like our page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/kbb, and follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kbb_com/ (or @kbb_com).

About Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com)

Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource®, is the vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Each week the company provides market-reflective values on its top-rated website KBB.com, including its famous Blue Book® Trade-In Values and Kelley Blue Book® Price Advisor tool, which provides a range for what consumers can reasonably expect to pay for a vehicle in their area. Car owners looking to sell immediately can also get a redeemable, transaction-ready offer with Kelley Blue BookSM Instant Cash Offer. The company also provides vehicle pricing and values through various products and services available to car dealers, auto manufacturers, finance and insurance companies, and governmental agencies. Kelley Blue Book is a Cox Automotive brand.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com

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ATLANTA, January 8, 2020 – The auto industry has seen drastic shifts in product offerings over the last decade, ranging from the rise in alternative-fuel options to updated infotainment systems, advanced safety technology standards, and all-new, innovative vehicle segments. As we look to 2020, the editors at Autotrader highlight the vehicles that made the most impact over the past 10 years.

“Over the past decade, technological advancements and changing consumer preferences forced automakers to adapt their lineups to introduce all-new and revamped vehicles,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “Ranging from electric powertrains and ultramodern designs, to newly remodeled classics, all of these vehicles pioneered their segments and defined the last 10 years in the auto industry.”

15 Best Cars of the Past Decade

Tesla Model S

Taking the world by storm at the beginning of the decade as the first viable mass-market electric luxury car, consumers quickly relied on the Model S for everything from running around-town errands to road-trip duty. A big perk is Tesla’s Autopilot feature; while it isn’t a fully self-driving system, it is among the most advanced autonomous technologies in the industry.

Nissan Leaf

The Leaf was the first affordable electric car to target the masses. Coming in a convenient compact hatchback body style that made it more practical than most EVs that preceded it, the Leaf set the standard for economical electric vehicles, and the rest of the industry soon would follow suit.

Toyota Prius

As the hybrid-electric segment was growing quickly, the Prius faced new competition and therefore needed to deliver improvements. The third-generation Prius was more aerodynamic than the previous model and included a bigger engine and rear disc brakes.

Acura NSX

After years of teasers, concepts and anticipation, Acura finally released the second-generation NSX for the 2017 model year with a price tag that is hardly as relevant to everyday buyers as the other vehicles on this list. The NSX's performance delivers with impeccable handling from its sophisticated AWD system and a combined output coming in at 573 horsepower, which translates to a 0-to-60 mph time of just 3.0 seconds flat and a top speed of 191 mph.

Mazda Miata

After the Miata made its debut in the 1990 model year, Mazda has stuck to the same general winning formula throughout the years. The fourth-generation Miata still offers the same driving experience as the original, albeit in a much more refined and polished package. No other vehicle will put a smile on your face quite like the Miata.

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 perfectly represented the changing tides of Americans’ automotive preferences when it took over as the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. in 2017. With a spacious cabin, good cargo volume, great efficiency and industry-leading reliability, it doesn’t appear that the RAV4 will have its crown stolen anytime soon.

Genesis

Today Genesis is a full-fledged luxury nameplate with entrants in the compact, midsize and full-size segments. With potent powertrains, refined cabins, great performance and the best warranties in the industry, the Genesis brand deserves a spot on the shopping list of any luxury buyer.

Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride arguably is the best execution of the 3-row crossover formula, featuring an extremely attractive, chiseled, boxy design that undoubtedly appeals to moms and dads who grew up with SUVs in the 1980s and 1990s. When it comes to the family crossover segment, the Telluride stands firmly above the competition.

Ford Mustang

The sixth-generation Mustang, which was released in the 2015 model year, is downright impressive.

There's also an all-new 4-cylinder model that offers impressive power and efficiency, turning the Mustang from a snarling muscle car to a fun, lightweight autocross champ. To finish off the decade, Ford introduced the all-electric Mustang Mach-E, signaling an extension of the Mustang brand into an entirely new and different segment. Needless to say, now there is a Mustang for just about anyone.

Ford F-150 Raptor

Ford took a big risk when it introduced the Raptor 10 years ago, and the competition has yet to catch up, leaving it without a bona fide rival to this day. Heading into the new decade, Ford is rumored to be releasing a Raptor powered by the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 found in the new Mustang GT500. (As if this thing wasn't already crazy enough!)

Porsche Macan

Porsche’s baby SUV, the compact Macan, debuted in the U.S. as a 2015 model and quickly became the most popular vehicle in the company’s lineup. Offering a variety of potent engines and endless customization options, the Macan may not be shaped like a traditional Porsche, but sit behind the wheel and one thing becomes clear: It’s a real Porsche.

Chrysler Pacifica

The Pacifica adds a bit of luxury that’s missing in the other, more traditional minivan offerings. It presents loads of family-friendly features, including clever seating that folds flat into the cargo floor, all at a great value. 

Jeep Gladiator

Until this past year, Jeep hadn’t offered a pickup truck since the discontinuation of the Comanche in the 1990s. This all changed in 2019 when the company introduced the all-new Gladiator, based heavily on the JL Wrangler. Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator offers removable doors, and your choice of either a canvas soft top or a plastic composite hardtop, both of which also are removable. Just like there's no other SUV like the Wrangler, there's no other pickup like the Gladiator.

Volvo XC90

The redesigned XC90 3-row SUV debuted in the 2015 model year and is the perfect example of a modern vehicle primed for the future. It has a range of turbocharged, supercharged and electrified 4-cylinder engines and offers good efficiency, a modern, minimalist interior, loads of connectivity and safety features, and unique Scandinavian elements like an available wool interior.

Dodge Hellcats

In lieu of redesign, Dodge has taken to introducing massively powerful versions of its two RWD cars under its Hellcat sub-brand, all of which pack a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 producing a whopping 707 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. Does anyone need all that power? Absolutely not, but the sheer ridiculousness of the Hellcat-badged Dodge models is how the brand managed to stay relevant through the 2010s.

To learn more about the 15 Best Cars of the Past Decade from Autotrader, including photos, detailed vehicle information and available inventory, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/15-best-cars-decade-281474979980765.

For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, and add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com).

About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.  

About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling and owning cars easier for everyone. The global company's 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

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New HomeNet Automotive meta-analysis suggests consumer insights hold keys to improving digital merchandising

EXTON, Pa., December 12, 2019 – Today, nearly all shopping for a vehicle begins online, equipping consumers with more information and access to inventory than ever before. However, while dealers recognize the need to capitalize on this evolving shopping pattern, a new meta-analysis from HomeNet Automotive reveals they struggle with how to differentiate their dealership and stand out from the competitive clutter online.

According to the meta-analysis, 83% of dealers believe they can increase margins or reduce days to sell by improving digital merchandising – how new and used vehicle inventory is presented to customers online – but just 12% believe they are doing enough to distinguish themselves.1

“As the prevalence of shopping for and purchasing vehicles online continues to rise, how dealers merchandise their inventory and separate themselves from the competition will be vital to profitability long term,” said Russ Daniels, director of product marketing for HomeNet and vAuto. “This new meta-analysis offers a consolidated look at key consumer habits contributing to the growing importance of digital merchandising and provides actionable insights and best practices to help dealers build a strong online presence that will win over shoppers.”

With 41% of car buyers now only visiting one store, and 52% using multiple devices to get to a dealership’s website,2 the margin for error is becoming increasingly small for dealers when it comes to reaching the right customers at the right time with a website that is responsive and widely compatible. In order to implement an effective digital merchandising strategy that meets these emerging trends head on, dealers must embrace technology and align their approach with consumer behavior and preferences.

Ultimately, the meta-analysis uncovered the following five opportunities for dealers to create more comprehensive, engaging digital listings that drive greater transparency and visibility amid a competitive market.

1. Introduce dynamic visual content to listings. While the impact of video has reached unprecedented levels of influencing shopper behavior – 90% of consumers in a 2016 survey said a video is helpful in the decision-making process3 – other new forms of elevating a vehicle’s visual appeal, such as 360 displays, are also adding significant value for consumers. Incorporating 360 displays and video content in listings can help dealers optimize digital merchandising efforts, create differentiation and enable more informed purchase decisions. However, while 73% of consumers who browsed and then either bought or leased a vehicle perceived 360 displays as being extremely or very helpful,4 42% of dealers have indicated they never merchandise with these displays.5

2. Exchange stock photos for multiple custom ones. Transparency in conveying a complete and comprehensive visual overview of a listing is key to effectively merchandising a vehicle online. According to the meta-analysis, 64% of car buyers want extensive vehicle data and photos.6 They want to see and fully understand what they are buying. In fact, while a single custom photo earned 166% more vehicle detail page (VDP) views per listing than a single stock photo, multiple custom photos earned 245% more VDPs per listing than multiple stock photos. What’s more, multiple custom photos earned 69% more VDPs per listing than a single custom photo.7 The more custom photos available on a listing, the better the shopping experience and engagement.

3. Leverage backgrounded images that keep the focus on the car. Backgrounded images that are clear and easy to digest receive up to 5% more click conversions from the search results page (SRP) to the VDP and can help boost buyer appeal and perceptions of the corresponding dealership.8 Utilizing photo overlays can also offer an easy way to deliver relevant content to shoppers, with the inclusion of dealership branding particularly effective on third-party websites.

4. Elevate vehicle information and descriptions. With the majority of shopping time spent online,9 it is becoming increasingly important for dealers to equip their digital listings with all the need-to-know information consumers have come to rely on to make faster, more confident decisions. Dealers can also build trust through transparency by giving shoppers access to complete car histories right as they research online.

5. Improve customer engagement and dealership reputation through third-party websites. According to the meta-analysis, 80% of consumers use third-party websites for shopping and research.10 It will therefore be crucial for dealers to develop an integrated marketing strategy to better reach and influence shoppers where they are online. Dealers should ensure they are featuring their listings on third-party websites and leveraging the growing popularity of Facebook Marketplace as a new destination for used car listings.

Download the complete meta-analysis here: https://www.homenetauto.com/learning-center/2019-state-of-automotive-merchandising/

About HomeNet

HomeNet Automotive gets inventory out of your systems and in front of online shoppers. Today’s car shoppers are researching, locating and evaluating cars online before they ever set foot in a physical dealership. Yet, dealers struggle to ensure inventory is consistently updated and distributed to all online destinations with speed, accuracy and quality. At HomeNet, we help dealers and industry partners merchandise and distribute their inventory from one unified platform and seamlessly push this information to their own website and all their third-party advertising sources. Based in Exton, PA, with offices across the U.S., HomeNet is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cox Automotive.

About Cox Automotive

Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

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1 HomeNet Automotive Brand and Product Study, 2018.

2 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

3 https://blog.flickfusion.com/tag/vdp/, September 21, 2016.

4 HomeNet 360 Consumer Study, 2019.

5 HomeNet Automotive Brand and Product Study, 2018.

6 Used Cars, New Platforms: Accelerating Sales in a Digitally Disrupted Market, McKinsey & Company, 2019.

7 Netezza tables, October 1, 2017 – December 31, 2017.

8 Cox Automotive Consumer Community, 2017.

9 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

10 Cox Automotive, Car Buyer Journey Study, 2019.

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