By Bob George, AVP of Product, Dealer.com

If dealers have learned anything over the last few years, it’s to stay on their toes. Whether they have leaned into digital retailing or overhauled their consumer privacy protocols, dealerships have seen more innovation in the last two years than many have seen in their whole careers. The marketing game has also fundamentally changed. It’s no longer about being everywhere all the time. With the right data, dealers can market more efficiently and reach the right consumer, with the right message, at just the right time.  

An industry-wide movement is taking place and dealerships who resist or don’t get onboard risk seeing their lots get left in the dust. The million-dollar question is: How do dealers embrace this revolution and make the RIGHT marketing changes to support the current landscape and set them up for success in the future?

Get Personal

As consumer behavior changes and digital competition continues to increase, dealerships must figure out how to cut through the noise and get personal with consumers. That starts with figuring out how to make your best offerings discoverable. But it’s not enough to focus on new customers; you also need to tie these acquisition efforts to retention, which drives long-term, sustainable growth.

Remember, a seamless experience isn’t just cross-channel marketing, it's about moving customers along the buyer journey with traditional marketing tactics, while instilling a long-term sense of loyalty and value. Find the balance between what the consumer wants to get out of any given interaction with your brand and what your business needs to get out of it, then make sure to keep the barrier to entry for consumers as low as possible.

Data is Gold

Dealers decrease the leads they generate by 164% if they fail to use a data-driven, multichannel strategy. However, marketers need to do more than just gather data—the data needs to be meaningful to improve marketing campaigns.

To future proof your marketing, intent data is key. Intent data is information specifically about a person or company's activities. It can be gathered from a company website by looking at which pages a customer visited, how long they stayed on those pages, and which links they clicked or procured from a third party. Intent data can be used to prioritize the best customer prospects and create more personalized campaigns to drive better conversion. 

By Bob George, AVP of Product, Dealer.com

ATLANTA, February 10, 2021 – The search to find your perfect match, whether looking for a love interest or a new vehicle, can be a daunting and time-consuming task. While Autotrader may not be able to help your love life, it understands the importance of finding ‘the one’ vehicle that fits your lifestyle and checks a list of ideal qualities. With that in mind, the experts at Autotrader have taken the stress out of car shopping by looking at more than 300 models available, narrowing them down to a list of 12 new vehicles that are a cut above the rest to determine the Best New Cars for 2021.

“Whether you are a first-time car buyer or a seasoned pro, there are hundreds of different models currently on the market and that can make it overwhelming to find a car that fits your specific needs,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “If you want to get busy and start doing some home test drives, our Best New Cars for 2021 is a great place to start. This list of the 12 best new vehicles will make finding your next car easy and fun, covering a variety of different lifestyles – the road trippers, the off-roaders, those with luxurious taste, and even those who want to help make the environment a little greener.”

The Best New Cars for 2021 is comprised of 12 vehicles selected by a team of experts at Autotrader, who collectively tested and scored new models using a range of criteria. Each chosen vehicle has unique features specific to anyone’s lifestyle needs, including interior comfort, build quality, tech features, driving experience and more. Vehicles had to be of the current or next model-year and score a 4.0 or higher on a 5-point scale. Editors also considered the types of vehicles consumers are shopping for most and capped the base price for consideration at $75,000, ensuring they offer a strong value for the cost. 

Autotrader Best New Cars for 2021*

2021 Acura TLX

Acura has returned to its luxury/performance roots with the fully redesigned TLX -- this time, with a greater emphasis on performance and technology. It’s an excellent sport sedan that has nimble handling, a smooth ride and a pleasing engine note. If you’re in the market for a midsize sport sedan, but you don’t like the price or ownership costs of the German allstars, then the TLX is an excellent alternative with little compromise.

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

This redesigned Chevy Tahoe has four-wheel independent suspension, which provides a more comfortable ride both onand off-road, and offers more interior space for both passengers and cargo. It comes in an appealing range of engines, including diesel. The new Tahoe is an evolution of a winning formula. 2021 Ford Bronco Sport Ford fantastically executed the bold undertaking of bringing the personality of the new Bronco into a smaller crossover that’s not afraid of a little adventure. The Ford Bronco Sport is a road-friendly crossover that has off-road capabilities. Ford also did an excellent job of making the Bronco Sport a totally new and unique crossover, while still embracing the spirit of the larger Bronco.

2021 Ford F-150

Ford knows a thing or two about what people want in a full-size pickup truck, and the 14th-generation F-Series simply gives us more of everything. This new Ford F-150 gives drivers more choices, more flexibility and more details that make using a truck easier, including a ruler built into the inside of the tailgate, power outlets and upscale interior options.

2021 Genesis GV80

The new Genesis GV80 is a midsize premium SUV with available three-row seating that starts under $50,000, squarely competing with much more expensive European rivals. This imposing, slick, refined, and comfortable SUV may be completely new, but it’s already at the top of its class.

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai’s update of the two-row Santa Fe makes it feel like a larger vehicle with a lot more variety under the hood. There’s a powerful turbo option, a hybrid (standard AWD), and a plug-in hybrid model. Hyundai is rather good at SUVs and at hybrids, and it was about time the two came together. The interior is notable, too. Hyundai vehicles are quietly becoming more and more premium with each update.

2021 Kia K5

Replacing the Kia Optima, the new Kia K5 is a midsize sedan with a head-turning exterior and a roomy, high-tech interior. Cool-looking high-end options, sharp handling, and a fresh new look are all reasons to test drive the new K5. It’s an eyecatching sedan that’s good enough to make BMW 3-Series shoppers seriously reconsider their options—especially in GT trim.

2021 Kia Sorento

The new Kia Sorento goes from budget-friendly SUV to near-luxury SUV just by adding a few options. With the Sorento, Kia has captured the spirit of the wildly popular Telluride in a smaller package. The interior and engine choices are impressive and it’s fun to drive. The new, rugged-looking X-Line version is especially noteworthy.

2021 Lexus IS

This newly updated sedan is beautifully balanced, precise and crisp, and a pleasure to drive. The update comes with long-term reliability and an affordable ownership experience, something you don’t always get in a driver-focused car. This latest version of the IS shows that Lexus is serious about delivering both luxury and sporting performance.

2021 Nissan Kicks

The Nissan Kicks is the most affordable car on the list with a sub-$20k starting price, and it has tons of personality and customizability that a wide range of drivers can afford. It’s a great first car because of its price, value, tech and personalization options. This Nissan crossover is proof that an affordable new SUV doesn’t have to be just basic transportation.

2021 Toyota Venza

The Toyota Venza is back, this time as a hybrid-only midsize two-row crossover. This vehicle debunks the myth that hybrids are a compromise on performance for better fuel economy. A totally new and modern crossover SUV—if you are considering a hybrid luxury SUV, make sure to test drive the Venza.

2021 Volvo XC40

The Volvo XC40 is an excellent small SUV. The Recharge version is especially compelling because it’s a fully electric vehicle with stand-out styling, 402 horsepower and 208 miles of range. It has impressive acceleration and decent range, plus Volvo’s well-earned reputation for safety. It’s an all-electric subcompact luxury crossover that does just about everything well.

In addition to providing a resource for shoppers to help narrow down their search for the perfect vehicle, the trust and speed of Autotrader’s digital shopping experience makes the process a breeze. Buying a car is now easier and safer than ever with the addition of Autotrader’s Dealer Home Services, which helps shoppers buy and service a car without ever leaving the safety and comfort of their homes.

To learn more about the Best New Cars for 2021 from Autotrader, including photos, detailed vehicle information and available inventory, visit www.Autotrader.com/BestNewCars. 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 LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/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 vehicles easier for everyone. The global company’s more than 27,000 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 privatelyowned, Atlanta-based company with annual revenues of nearly $20 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

*Vehicles listed in alphabetical order

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ATLANTA, December 2, 2020 – Each year, automotive technology advances into new territory, and the innovations become more and more exciting for consumers. Whether that’s under the hood or inside the cabin, car shoppers will be delighted to find how much new auto innovations can help their daily drives become more efficient, convenient and exciting. To help car buyers navigate the breakthrough technology in vehicles, Autotrader put together a list of the Best New Automotive Technology for 2021. 

"Technology is really what’s driving new cars today. From the seemingly simple Apple CarPlay to the sophisticated augmented reality and adaptive cruise systems, technology is no longer an option. Today, it’s a real and tangible way automakers can set themselves apart in a crowded field. If you pay close attention, you can start to see the personal automobile of the future take shape,” said Brian Moody, executive editor at Autotrader. “This year’s top advancements in auto tech encapsulate the unique needs we have seen consumers express this year, including a higher standard for entertainment, safety, and environmentalism.” 

Best New Automotive Technology of 20211 

2021 Cadillac Escalade 

With the all-new 2021 model, the Cadillac Escalade has cemented its place as the American luxury brand’s showcase for new and luxurious technologies. Starting with the advanced Super Cruise, one of the best-kept secrets in automotive technology. It’s a semi-autonomous technology suite that is arguably the most advanced system of its kind since it allows for hands-free driving on the highway (you still need to stay alert and keep your eyes on the road). Super Cruise is now more advanced than ever on the new Escalade with the addition of lane-changing capability. The 2021 Escalade also boasts a curved 4K OLED display with a whopping 38 inches of total diagonal display space—one massive and beautiful display with three different screens.  

2021 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 

For 2021, the luxurious Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S has arrived. This high-performance luxury SUV combines luxury, technology, and raw power in a graceful way that few other brands can match. Under the hood lies a twin-turbo V8 engine pumping out 603 horsepower. This engine is also equipped with an EQ Boost starter/generator mild hybrid system powering a 48-volt electrical system. It gives the engine a performance bump of 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. It also makes for smooth and quick automatic stop/start technology which has been infamously clunky in some applications in competing brands. 

2021 Rolls Royce Ghost 

We know what you're thinking, the new Ghost (all-new for 2021) is so expensive, no one can afford it. True, it is expensive, but that's usually where leaps in technological advancement come from.  Also, the $300,000 Ghost has been the brand's best-selling vehicle. In addition to the expected Rolls tech surrounding hand-crafting a car, the new Ghost has a few tech features that only serve to enhance its Rolls-Royce-ness. The Ghost's "Flagbearer" system uses cameras to see the road ahead and adjust accordingly. The result is an amazingly smooth ride virtually free of bumps and unpleasantness. Rolls-Royce's Planar Suspension System uses a combination of air-suspension, sensors, cameras, weights, dampers, and a transmission that uses GPS information to select the best gear for the corner ahead. The result is a car feels like it's gliding over the road. 

Aftermarket Head-Up Display 

A head-up display was considered a luxurious feature that was only found in high-end cars not that long ago. However, in 2021, anyone with a car and a smartphone can have an advanced head-up display. One good example is the Hudway Drive. This $229 device can mount to any dashboard, plug into a 12V outlet, and connect to your phone to show you important information. It can show you your speed, turn-by-turn navigation, and notifications from your phone like calls and text messages. It delivers all of this useful information right in your line of sight so you can keep your eyes on the road with minimal distractions. Customize it to show you everything you want to see and -- just as importantly -- not show you anything you don’t want to see. If you’ve been driving around with your phone mounted somewhere on your dash, a head-up display that talks to your phone is a very nice upgrade. 

Hydrogen-Powered Cars 

There have been varying degrees of hype around hydrogen fuel cell cars for decades. The idea dates back more than a century. However, we’re at a point where we have real cars powered by nothing but hydrogen on the road. It’s a segment that’s growing, albeit quite slowly. The Toyota Mirai gets a big update for 2021. In a surprising move, the hydrogen-powered Mirai has evolved from a hatchback into a premium sedan. It’s gone from being a quirky and weird-looking oddity to a bit more of a traditional look that you wouldn’t guess is an alternative fuel vehicle at first glance. The Hyundai Nexo is an EV that also uses an electrochemical process to generate electricity. The Nexo has a sophisticated look, pretty good range, and a roomy cargo hold that helps make it a practical crossover. Honda's Clarity Fuel-Cell is also a real-world car that some consumers can get and drive today. 

Hummer EV CrabWalk 

There’s a lot to love about the upcoming 2022 GMC Hummer EV. Not only does it have a daring look and an insane electric powertrain with up to 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 lb-ft of torque, but it has a fascinating feature called CrabWalk—a new twist on four-wheel steering. Since the Hummer is a big truck that aims to be a proficient off-roader, it needs all the help it can get from modern technology to be more maneuverable. The Hummer’s rear wheels can turn up to 10 degrees in either direction. In conjunction with the front wheels, the Hummer can move diagonally without the body of the truck turning at all. This should prove useful for getting out of tight spots on the trails. There are also cameras (with washers) under the body to show you what’s going on around the truck while CrabWalking. 

Lexus AR Play 

Lexus AR Play is a new app that can give you a tour of the all-new 2021 IS using augmented reality. Augmented reality is kind of like virtual reality, but instead of immersing you in a totally virtual world, it’s a sort of hybrid between virtual reality and real reality. For example, Lexus AR Play virtually puts an IS in your driveway allowing you to do a 360-degree tour and even open the doors and check out the interior. You can even drive it around remotely from the app. Customize your virtual IS with whatever paint color, interior color, wheel design, and interior features that you’d like. Customizing your own IS and getting a thorough tour of it gives you a much better idea of what that car is like in person compared to just looking at photos. 

Nissan ProPilot Assist 2.0 

Nissan's ProPilot 2.0 is a system that will allow "hands-free" driving. Nissan says it like this: "ProPILOT Assist 2.0 gives you the option to experience hands-off single-lane driving, as well as hands-on guided lane changing abilities." The first car in the U.S. to employ this will be on the all-electric Nissan Ariya SUV. This will be available as soon as late 2021. It's essentially a super-sophisticated lane control/adaptive cruise control system but the "hands-off" part means the system won't time out. The result will be less driver fatigue on long trips and, probably, fewer rear-end and lane-change accidents. 

Toyota Hybrids 

The best way to say this is that Toyota has forced the "Democratization of hybrids." Toyota didn't invent the hybrid, many automakers experimented with them for decades. But Toyota has done for hybrids what Henry Ford did for the automobile, they brought it to the masses. Now, some models come only as a hybrid. Especially noteworthy is the fact that both the 2021 Toyota Sienna and 2021 Toyota Venza are offered only as a hybrid. There's also a plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4 called the RAV4 Prime.  

Trombia Technologies Electric Autonomous Street Sweeper 

Finnish street maintenance tech company Trombia Technologies has launched the first-ever high-power, all-electric, autonomous street sweeper. It’s called the Trombia Free and it looks like a concept for a future machine, but this is a real thing that will be quietly sweeping streets starting in January 2021 as part of a pilot program. Mass deliveries could happen as soon as early 2022. About 3 million metric tons of CO2 are pumped into the air by diesel-powered street sweepers annually according to Trombia CEO Antti Nikkanen. Electrifying those machines could seriously cut those emissions down without compromising on power and performance. 

To view the entire Best New Automotive Technology list from Autotrader, visit https://www.autotrader.com/car-tech/best-new-automotive-tech-of-2021. 

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 more than 27,000 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 of $21 billion. www.coxautoinc.com  

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IRVINE, Calif., August 27, 2020 – In this age of uncertainty, car buyers are looking for vehicles and brands they can trust to take on the road ahead. With an overwhelming amount of choices on the market, consumers are looking for a simple way to identify their best options. For shoppers wanting to search for a new vehicle with ease and confidence, the editors at Kelley Blue Book have named the 10 Most Awarded Cars of 2020 and the 10 Most Awarded Brands of 2020.

To compile this list, Kelley Blue Book's experts sorted through the winners from all of the company's 2020 awards programs, tallying the cars and brands that were awarded most often. Kelley Blue Book's major annual awards programs include the Best Buy Awards, Best Auto Tech Awards, Best Resale Value Awards, 5-Year Cost to Own Awards and Brand Image Awards. Also factored into the final count are the various car accolade lists created by Kelley Blue Book's editorial staff this year – such as the 12 Best Family Cars, 10 Best Family Cars Under $25,000, 10 Best All-Wheel-Drive Vehicles Under $30,000, and many more.

“Our expert editorial team has a deep knowledge of every new car that comes out in a single year. Add in the tremendous amounts of vehicle and market data from Kelley Blue Book, and we are able to evaluate an extensive list of factors before finalizing the top picks,” said Matt DeLorenzo, senior managing editor for Kelley Blue Book. “For 2020, the Kia Telluride landed among all cars as the Most Awarded with its impressive combination of value, elegance and capability, while Toyota lead the Most Awarded Brands for 2020.”

10 Most Awarded Cars of 2020

10 Most Awarded Brands of 2020

To see KBB.com's complete coverage of the 10 Most Awarded Cars of 2020, visit https://www.kbb.com/best-cars/most-awarded-cars-2020/. For full coverage of the 10 Most Awards Brands of 2020, visit https://www.kbb.com/best-cars/most-awarded-brands-2020/.  

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/kelley-blue-book/, 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 of $21 billion. www.coxautoinc.com 

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Tesla Nearly Sweeps Luxury Brand Categories; Subaru Leads Non-Luxury Brands

IRVINE, Calif., April 8, 2020 – Automotive brands resonate with shoppers worldwide with appealing attributes like reputation, design and more. Few products are more ubiquitous in our day-to-day lives than the automobile, and successful automakers who win the hearts and minds of car shoppers could benefit by selling more cars and increasing profits in the long run. Recognizing automakers’ outstanding achievements in creating and maintaining brand attributes that earn the attention and enthusiasm of new-car buyers, Kelley Blue Book today announces the 2020 Brand Image Award winners, based on annual new-car buyer perception data. Award categories are calculated among luxury, non-luxury and truck shoppers.

“Building brands that leave positive impressions with car shoppers is of the utmost importance to automakers who wish to stand out and succeed in an increasingly crowded marketplace,” said Isabelle Helms, vice president of research and market intelligence for Cox Automotive. “Delivering products that are compelling to shoppers, backed by solid marketing communications, has proven to influence purchase considerations and outcomes. Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Award winners recognize the automakers who are on top of their game in the minds of new-car shoppers.”

2020 Brand Image Award Winners: Non-Luxury Brands

2020 Brand Image Award Winner: Truck Brand

2020 Brand Image Award Winners:  Luxury Brands

For 2020, Subaru wins Best Overall Brand among non-luxury automakers for the third time in the past five years. Subaru achieved the highest average score across all ratings of non-luxury models to win the Best Overall Brand. In addition, Subaru takes home specific awards this year for Most Trusted Brand and Best Performance Brand. Subaru’s wins are based on the automaker’s reputation for delivering safe, spacious, fuel-efficient vehicles that satisfy the needs of both everyday consumers and those seeking increased utility/performance at the right price point.

Among luxury automakers, Tesla is all-new to the winners’ circle this year with an impressive showing, nearly sweeping the luxury award categories for 2020. Tesla wins Best Overall Luxury Brand, achieving the highest average score across all ratings of luxury models to win the Best Overall Luxury Brand. In addition, Tesla takes home specific awards this year for Best Value Luxury Brand, Most Refined Luxury Brand, Best Performance Luxury Brand and Best Car Styling Luxury Brand. Tesla’s sleek, all-electric designs offer the market a fresh look, and the brand’s work to offer innovative technology for luxury vehicle consumers at a desirable cost has paid off accordingly with overwhelmingly positive car-shopper perceptions. In addition, Tesla has long been a leader on electric vehicle batteries, for years seeming to have a significantly lower cost for batteries than other OEMs.

Toyota wins Best Overall Truck Brand for the second year in a row. Toyota achieved the highest average score across all ratings of truck models and 12 weighted factors of importance. Even as truck shopping soared to new heights in 2019 and several new models entered the market, the Tacoma and Tundra held their own and propelled Toyota to win the Best Overall Truck Brand award.

Beyond the top overall brands, other automakers gained notable repeat Brand Image Award wins for 2020. Honda wins Best Value Brand among non-luxury automakers for the sixth consecutive year, and Lexus wins Most Trusted Luxury Brand for the fifth consecutive year. Dodge wins Best Car Styling Brand among non-luxury automakers for the second consecutive year.

The 2020 Brand Image Awards are based on consumer automotive perception data from Kelley Blue Book Brand Watch study. Brand Watch is an online brand and model perception tracking study, which taps into more than 12,000 in-market new-vehicle shoppers annually on KBB.com. The highly comprehensive study offers insight into how shoppers perceive important factors driving their purchase decisions and captures brand/model familiarity and loyalty among new-car shoppers. For more information about the 2020 Kelley Blue Book Brand Image Awards, visit https://www.kbb.com/articles/awards/brand-image-awards/.

If you are looking for a vehicle at this time, many dealers can accommodate your buying needs—shopping from your couch or having an advisor just a text or phone call away. Check out the latest on how to shop for your next vehicle online at https://www.kbb.com/articles/car-news/can-i-buy-a-car-online-to-reduce-coronavirus-exposure/.

For more information and news from Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com, visit www.kbb.com/media/, follow us on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/kelley-blue-book/, 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 of $21 billion. www.coxautoinc.com

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ATLANTA, March 25, 2020 – As shoppers shift online across all categories for both every day essentials and aspirational needs, they are facing a new reality. Within the automotive space, they are experiencing an increasingly crowded virtual marketplace, where visiting multiple dealerships isn’t practical. So, how are new-car buyers to know which vehicles are most worthy of their consideration in today’s environment? While there are several mainstays long-known for excellence in the automotive industry, the truth remains that standout vehicles can be found among a variety of price points, categories and brands. To help car shoppers expand their horizons as they consider which new vehicle to buy, Autotrader recently named the Best New Cars for 2020.

“Our goal was to provide a helpful list of cars that offer exceptional value for their class, regardless of vehicle type or price,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “Anyone in the market for a new car really should look outside their typical go-to brands—they might be surprised what they find. It's also worth noting that out of our 12 best cars of the year, only one is from a luxury brand. That tells you just how good cars from volume brands are now in their top trims when it comes to comfort, technology and design. Every vehicle Autotrader listed as a Best New Car for 2020 has ‘that certain something’ that makes it stand out in a very crowded field.”

Each vehicle on this year’s list was agreed upon unanimously by the entire editorial and data team at Autotrader. To be considered, a vehicle must be of the current or next model-year and available for purchase at the time of the announcement. The editors capped the base price for consideration at $75,000 (although most vehicles on the list are well under), meaning they offer a significant value for the asking price. Not only was value a top priority, but vehicles also were judged on available technology and a rewarding or dynamic driving experience. Each winning car had to score an overall 3.9 or higher on the editors’ 5-point evaluation sheet.

Listed below, in alphabetical order, are the Autotrader experts’ choices for Best New Cars for 2020:

Autotrader’s Best New Cars for 2020

For more details about Autotrader’s Best New Cars for 2020, including full editorial commentary, pricing information and more, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/12-best-new-cars-2020-281474979998703.  

If you are looking for a vehicle at this time, many dealers can accommodate your buying needs—shopping from your couch or having an advisor just a text or phone call away.  Check out the latest on how to shop for your next vehicle online at https://www.autotrader.com/how-to-buy-cars-online.

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

*This article originally published on Dealer Marketing Magazine.

vAuto founder Dale Pollak recently told a group of dealers: “We’re not in the car business, we’re in the business of making money.”

And he’s right.

One of the biggest influencers on new car dealers’ profitability in 2019 has been the health of their new vehicle inventory. In the latest Haig report, it was highlighted that franchise dealer expenses are growing faster than grosses, with new car holding expenses identified as the primary culprit for this trend.

It’s hard to fathom that in 2015 (per NADA Dealership Financial Profile), the average dealer booked nearly $110,000 in floorplan profit and in 2019, floorplan will be a $93,000 hit to the bottom line. That’s a $203,000 swing in the wrong direction. Using NADA’s guideline that dealers make approximately 2% net profit on every $100 worth of sales, dealers will need to find an additional $11,000,000 in sales revenue to make up that net profit difference.

Most dealers I meet with don’t have many $11,000,000 ideas lying around, so increased attention to managing new vehicle inventories has become increasingly urgent.

One of the biggest challenges in monitoring this aspect of the dealership’s operation is that the industry lacks good inventory measurement targets or benchmarks. NADA’s Dealership Performance Benchmarks Guide provides ONE recommendation for new vehicle inventory control: maintain a 45-60 days’ supply.

It’s interesting that parts managers have more inventory performance benchmarks and spend a lot more time analyzing their $400,000 parts inventory than a new car manager does for his $8,000,000 new car inventory.

If “making more money” really is the name of the game, dealers will be wealthier and wiser by managing these two critically important new vehicle inventory metrics.

% Inventory Under 90 Days

Maintaining a high % of units under 90 days is vital for three reasons: 1. Mitigates exposure to rising holding costs, because in most cases the factory floorplan credit covers the first 90-120 days. 2. Dealers with fresh inventories are typically those with higher retail sales turn, which means more trades, more recon, more F&I and more floorplan profit! 3. Grosses are BETTER! In a recent analysis Dealertrack conducted with 400,000 sales transactions, retailed units with 0-30 days in stock had an average front-end gross (transaction price vs. invoice, not including F&I, factory bonus or doc fee) of -$230, while retailed units with an age of 90-120 days in stock were -$750 and units over 365 days were -$1,690!! I don’t think many dealers realize the extent to which they pay a holding cost premium for worse grosses!!

Performance Targets:

Domestic Stores               70% under 90 days

Import/Luxury Stores     80% under 90 days

Dealer Days’ Supply by Model/Trim:

Monitoring the relationship between your dealer days’ supply and the overall market days’ supply allows managers to quickly identify model lines and trims where their pricing strategy, mix or online merchandising is off.

Most OEMs only provide the individual dealer days’ supply with no comparison to the overall market. This would be like analyzing your stock portfolio performance without having the S&P as a benchmark.

The devil is usually in the details, and this is certainly the case when it comes to the enormous complexity of most model/trim/option/color combinations. The overall dealer days’ supply at the model line level might look fine, but when you drill deeper into the trim mix, that’s where you’ll often find the problems. I recently saw a dealer with a 45 days’ supply of 2020 Camrys, but a 223 days’ supply of red Camry LEs.

The sooner dealers become aware of issues like these red Camry LEs, the sooner they can begin taking corrective actions to reduce their exposure to holding costs. This granular vision of your inventory will also highlight stocking opportunities of combinations performing well in the market, which are not currently in your stock.

Making More Money with Better Inventory Control

Making money for franchise dealers has become a lot more challenging over the last eight years, as return on sales has fallen from 2.8% in 2011 to 2.3% this year (per NADA). The major underlying cost structures are not likely to improve – rent factors/mortgages are not becoming less expensive, attracting and retaining talented employees is not getting cheaper and advertisers are not looking to charge less.

New car inventory control remains one of the single biggest opportunities for dealers to root out unnecessary expenses and drive incremental sales.

Dealers who are managing their inventories with a high % of units under 90 days and monitoring the dealer days’ supply by model/trim will be well-positioned to improve the health of their new vehicle inventories and the health of their bottom lines. Remember, “We’re not in the car business, we’re in the business of making money.”

Brian Finkelmeyer is senior director of new car business at vAuto.

ATLANTA, Dec. 16, 2019  -- With the accelerating pace of automotive technology, new-car shoppers entering the market may be surprised by the innovations that have developed in recent years. To help shoppers navigate all of the features and gadgets available on 2020 model-year vehicles, the experts at Autotrader recently named the Best New Automotive Technology for 2020.

"Technology in cars keeps evolving and becoming more sophisticated with advancements from automakers and tech companies both paving the way to enhance safety, entertainment and convenience features with each new model year," said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. "You no longer have to buy a luxury car to experience cutting-edge tech – many features come standard on some of the most affordable new models from mainstream brands. This year we are seeing features like back seat reminders at no additional cost on many new models, and that is just one example of the tech headway that keeps changing on new cars."

Autotrader's Best New Automotive Technology for 2020

Wireless Apple CarPlay
Since its introduction, Apple CarPlay has required phones to be connected to the vehicle via a USB cable, but this is starting to change. Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay is contingent upon the vehicle offering a wi-fi connection, which is available via subscription in a lot of new vehicles today. Even though only a handful of automakers offer this feature currently, consumers should expect it to be more widely available in the not-so-distant future.

Back Seat Reminders
Many automakers have begun to incorporate back seat reminder systems into new vehicles. These systems work by taking note of whether you opened the vehicle's back door before setting off on your trip and then reminding you of this upon exiting the vehicle once you've arrived at your destination.

iOS 13 Apple CarPlay
The new version of CarPlay addresses concerns of previous versions and improvements to overall usability. It comes with a new dashboard that offers a dual-pane view that can show both maps and music at the same time, which keeps you from having to manually switch back and forth between screens. There also are improvements to Siri, a refresh to Music and Maps apps, a new light mode and calendar integration.

Redesigned Android Auto
Software always improves over time and this is the case with Android Auto. Google recently rolled out an update for its Android Auto system with a new interface that mimics that of Apple CarPlay. The system starts off in your favorite maps interface, with icons along the bottom that allow you to control music, voice commands, and more, and a new app drawer looks familiar to the homepage on your Android phone.

Electric Performance Cars
When electric vehicles first hit the scene, the last thing on anyone's mind was performance. But a lot has changed over the years, and thanks to the help of automakers like Tesla, electrification is now just as much associated with performance as it is environmental friendliness. The burgeoning performance-luxury electric segment features current and upcoming vehicles from the likes of Porsche, Jaguar, Audi and Mercedes-Benz, and even Ford now has its own Mustang-inspired electric performance car.

Wireless Phone Charging
Ever hop into your car for a long drive, realize you phone is almost out of battery and didn't have access to the proper cable along the way? Just about any new phone offered today comes with wireless charging capability. With this technology now included in the majority of phones today, automakers have begun integrating wireless charging pads into their vehicles, typically locating them somewhere on the center console.

Genesis Intelligent Assistant App
In today's phone-focused world, there is an app for everything. Genesis' app goes above and beyond typical new-car smartphone apps in that it acts as a personal assistant of sorts that can lock and unlock your vehicle from afar, start it remotely, adjust the HVAC system, and even interface with Google and Amazon Alexa, executing commands given through your Google and Amazon devices. This app takes the connected lifestyle and elevates it to the next level, making it easier to interact with our vehicles.  

Nissan's Variable Compression Turbo Engine
Nissan's new 'Variable Compression' turbo engine is unique in that it can change its compression ratio at a whim depending on driver inputs, allowing it to return better fuel economy in relaxed day-to-day driving, but picking up more power when the driver mashes the throttle.

Electric Trucks
Pickup truck startups Bollinger and Rivian are both slated to offer their long-awaited electric pickups for sale by the end of 2020, while Tesla has recently revealed the controversial new Tesla Cybertruck, which the company claims will go on sale by the end of 2021. Additionally, Ford has promised that both hybrid and full-electric F-150s are in development, so expect to learn hear more about that in the coming year as well. And when Ford does something, you can bet that GM and Ram will be soon to follow. Electric trucks are coming, and soon buyers will have a lot of options.

Exit Warning Systems
Functioning similarly to blind spot monitoring, these systems work when the vehicle is stationary in a parallel parking spot and alert you of when a vehicle or bicycle is approaching from the rear. The idea is to keep you from opening your door to potentially disastrous consequences, and from keeping your back seat passengers (i.e. children) from doing the same. Currently, exit warning systems are generally in their infancy and offered only by Hyundai and Audi, but as they evolve we expect them to get more sophisticated and be available on more vehicles.

Hyundai Remote Smart Parking Assist
Hyundai has recently introduced a clever feature it's calling 'Remote Smart Parking Assist'.  The system works like most other automatic parking features, where the vehicle can automatically park itself in either a pull-in or parallel parking spot, but what makes it unique is that it can function without you needing to be behind the wheel.  Features like Remote Smart Parking Assist leverage technology already found in the vehicle (in this case, the radar, remote start, and pedestrian detection systems) in a new and useful way, inching us closer and closer to that autonomous future, however far away it may be.

For more details and information about Autotrader's Best New Automotive Technology for 2020, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/best-new-automotive-technology-2020-281474979972892.

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

Prestigious Annual Awards Name Kia Telluride Best New Model for 2020

IRVINE, Calif., November 20, 2019 – Following head-to-head testing, evaluation and data analysis of 2020 model-year vehicles, the experts at Kelley Blue Book today announce the 2020 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award winners. Kelley Blue Book’s Best Buy Awards honor the top new model-year vehicles available in the U.S. market in 16 major categories, along with Kelley Blue Book’s newest award introduced last year, Best New Model. For 2020, the all-new Kia Telluride takes home top honors as Best New Model for its impressive combination of innovation and value in one of the hottest segments in the marketplace. 

Kelley Blue Book created the Best Buy Awards to help shoppers narrow down their new-car consideration list and purchase their next vehicle with confidence. These awards identify the best of all available 2020 models, with a special emphasis on value-per-dollar in both purchase and ownership experience.

“We understand how overwhelming it can be to shop for a new car, with so many considerations about hundreds of choices and many brand-new nameplates hitting the market every year,” said Karl Brauer, executive publisher for Kelley Blue Book. “For more than 90 years, Kelley Blue Book has helped shoppers find the right vehicle at the right price. The Best Buy Awards were designed to help consumers shop confidently by doing the heavy lifting for them. Our experts provide clear, detailed guidance on which specific car, truck, minivan and SUV models shoppers should prioritize and consider for their next new-car purchase.”

Starting with the more than 300 new models available for 2020, Kelley Blue Book’s annual Best Buy Awards are based on a year-long regimen of expert evaluation and testing of nearly every new vehicle available in America, with a specific focus on the best combination of quality, safety, comfort, driving dynamics, dependability, low ownership costs and affordability. As part of their decision-making process, Kelley Blue Book’s experts also analyze a wide array of vehicle-related data, including vehicle pricing, 5-Year Cost to Own data (which includes depreciation, insurance, maintenance, financing, fuel, fees and taxes for new cars), consumer reviews and ratings, and vehicle sales information. To be considered for Kelley Blue Book’s Best New Model award, the vehicle must be an all-new or significantly redesigned model offering a strong value proposition to consumers based on pricing, innovation and available standard technology and safety features.

2020 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award Winners

Best New Model: 2020 Kia Telluride

Simply put, the all-new Kia Telluride wowed us, boasting sophistication, practicality, comfort, and a host of standard safety features and technology, all in one of the leading segments on the market. Pair that with its substantial size, standout style, enjoyable driving experience and attractive starting price of just $31,690, and the Telluride’s impressive value story won our hearts as the Best New Model for 2020. 

Compact Car: 2020 Honda Civic

As the perfect combination of sporty yet practical, the fun-to-drive Honda Civic continues to be the benchmark for the compact car segment. The Civic’s variety of choices in body styles, trims and engines, along with its top-notch interior and plentiful standard equipment, offers unrivaled value in its class.

Midsize Car: 2020 Honda Accord

The Honda Accord offers handsome styling inside and out, a comfortable ride and capable performance, making it the quintessential family car. Despite being three years out from its last major redesign, the Accord continues to deliver on high expectations and remains on top with its enjoyable driving dynamics, value proposition and timeless design.

Subcompact SUV: 2020 Hyundai Kona

With loads of style packed in its youthful appearance, impressive safety systems, and choice of gasoline or all-electric powertrains, the Hyundai Kona returns this year as the Best Buy in its category.  The fuel-efficient Kona offers a terrific warranty, a long list of standard features and a variety of available upgrades to match your budget.

Compact SUV: 2020 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has a slightly revamped look for 2020 and continues to be a standout in its class with clean styling, a comfortable, roomy interior, and easy-to-drive demeanor. With a long list of features and a highly anticipated new Hybrid model coming soon, the CR-V epitomizes utility and dependability.

Midsize SUV – 2-Row: 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe

The smartly designed, roomy Hyundai Santa Fe is a well-appointed 2-row midsize SUV offering excellent value with a wide array of standard safety features and driver assist technology. With a spacious interior that pays attention to materials and build quality, the Santa Fe also has a top-notch warranty and impressive 5-Year Cost to Own and resale value numbers.

Midsize SUV – 3-Row: 2020 Kia Telluride

Not only is the all-new Telluride Kia’s largest, most sophisticated and most beautiful SUV to date, it’s the best among all players in its segment. The handsome and roomy Telluride includes a host of active safety features and amenities, along with a value proposition and warranty that propel it past the competition to the head of the pack.

Full-Size SUV: 2020 Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition is king of the full-size SUVs, a refined workhorse that artfully blends the ability to carry people in comfort with an appetite for true truck-like capability. With its rugged, chiseled looks and roomy, well-appointed interior, the Expedition also boasts a superb powertrain with notable fuel economy and tow ratings that exceed the competition.  

Minivan: 2020 Honda Odyssey

The value-packed Honda Odyssey remains the best family hauler, comfortably seating up to eight passengers with terrific quality and utility, refined driving manners and impressive safety features. The Odyssey shines in all areas, excelling in comfort, convenience and connectivity, along with class-leading low ownership costs. 

Pickup Truck – Midsize: 2020 Chevrolet Colorado

The Chevrolet Colorado features best-in-class towing and impressive payload capacity at a price that is easy on the wallet. With its highly customizable cabin/box configurations and a comfortable interior with several convenient amenities, the Colorado also offers three different engines and solid resale values in its class.

Pickup Truck – Full-Size: 2020 Ford F-150

The best-selling vehicle in America remains the best bet among full-size pickups, and the Ford F-150 continues to impress. Filled to the brim with tech, convenience and safety features, the F-150 also offers six different engine choices, best-in-class payload capacity and impressive towing stats, all while being comfortable and roomy enough for families.

Electric Car: 2020 Hyundai Kona Electric

The Hyundai Kona Electric is the car that will make you believe in alternatives. With 258 miles of range (or more) on a full charge, several notable features, an impressive warranty and refreshing driving dynamics, the Kona Electric is an affordable everyman’s vehicle that is both easy to drive and easy to own. Bonus: Kona Electric still qualifies for a full $7,500 federal tax credit, along with any state and local incentives and rebates.

Plug-in Hybrid Car: 2020 Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid

Launched new for the 2018 model-year and winning a Best Buy Award three years in a row now, the Honda Clarity is offered in three very distinct variants: pure-electric, fuel cell, and PHEV. Boasting solid driving dynamics and a roomy passenger cabin, the Clarity’s plug-in powertrain features impressive range and fuel economy for the segment coupled with Honda’s notable safety, reliability and resale values.

Subcompact Luxury SUV: 2020 Audi Q3

The Audi Q3 is a true luxury SUV with subcompact dimensions, featuring upscale design and notable standard equipment. With fun driving dynamics and a value-laden collection of luxury, safety, performance, and technology smarts even in the base models, the Q3 is the new recommendable king of extra-small luxury SUVs.

Compact Luxury SUV: 2020 Audi Q5

With its sporty chassis and luxurious, tech-filled cabin, the Audi Q5 is a back-to-back Best Buy winner in its class, even among stiffer competition this year. Audi’s best-selling model continues to impress with its proven powertrain, superb interior and abundant technology.

Midsize Luxury SUV: 2020 BMW X5

The BMW X5 is one of the pioneers among luxury SUVs, and its most recent redesign has considerably upped its game. The latest X5 builds on its legacy with powerful, refined powertrains, class-leading ride and handling, and dynamic capabilities, standing out from the highly competitive class to capture its first Best Buy Award.

Luxury Car: 2020 Lexus ES

Offered with two powertrains (gasoline-only and gasoline-electric hybrid) to satisfy all, the seventh-generation Lexus ES swept us off our feet for the second year in a row and is more luxurious than ever. The ES effortlessly features superb comfort for all passengers, along with innovative technology at an alluring value.

For full coverage of the 2020 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards, including full editorial comments about each model, pricing details, videos and more, visit www.kbb.com/bestbuyawards.

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

# # #

Customers Can Leverage Industry-Leading Ownership-Cost Data from KBB.com

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 26, 2019 -- Kelley Blue Book's 5-Year Cost to Own data is now available for syndication via API. Previously only available on KBB.com, now customers can integrate this valuable information within their own website experiences, helping consumers to be more informed about the total ownership cost picture of the new vehicles they are considering for purchase.

Kelley Blue Book's 5-Year Cost to Own data takes into consideration depreciation, expected fuel costs, finance and insurance fees, maintenance and repair costs, and state fees for new vehicles. 

"Kelley Blue Book's 5-Year Cost to Own breaks down typical ownership costs, so consumers can evaluate the out-of-pocket expenses they will incur beyond just the initial purchase price of a new car," said Damon Bennett, senior director of syndication for Kelley Blue Book.  "Given the extensive data insights available across Cox Automotive, we are excited our customers now can leverage another industry-leading product within our syndication portfolio that offers valuable information to help smooth the car-buying process for consumers and dealers alike."

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. In addition, each year Kelley Blue Book uses this data to announce its 5-Year Cost to Own Award winners, honoring the new vehicles and brands with the lowest projected ownership costs. 

Available now to OEM, Dealer, Website Publisher and Auto Industry Product Developers, customers interested in syndicating Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own data via API should contact kbb.syndication@coxautoinc.com for more information.

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