• Chevrolet sales up 32.5 percent
• Buick sales up 52.7 percent
• Cadillac sales up 39.1 percent
• GMC sales up 45 percent

Without further ado, here are the sales charts you’ve been waiting for!

2010 - July - USA - Chevrolet

2010 - July - USA - Buick

2010 - July - USA - Cadillac

2010 - July - USA - GMC

2010 - July - USA - Other Brands

2010 - July - USA - GM Total

There are many GM vehicles that are laden with quality but for whatever reason get overlooked by the public (and the press). Many are new and others made their debut during the the last several years. So yours truly came up with a list of five GM vehicles that are oft overlooked yet are still very capable. It certainly does not include all GM vehicles that fit this description, but just the first few that came to mind.

Oldmobile Aurora

1. Last-generation Oldsmobile Aurora: the first gen was ugly, which led to low sales volume. The second generation, however, was a simple (read: generic) looking vehicle that did little to increase sales over the first generation. Or so they thought… the second generation Aurora, with the “shortstar” V8 (a 4.0L version of the Northstar that was recently discontinued), was a very capable car. It probably appealed to the Buick crowd more than the BMW folk but was a well-made vehicle that made for a comfortable drive. Unfortunately, it never achieved the sales level it deserved.


2006 Saab 9-3

2. Epsilon-based Saab 9-3 (before the clear tail lights edition): this car sold in average volumes and probably got as much market share as it deserved for its price and quality. Ignoring the price tag, however, the 9-3 was a great vehicle – fun and entertaining. It may have lost some of the Saab spirit of yore but to this day, it remains an exciting drive.


Saturn Aura

3. Saturn Aura: yeah okay Saturn’s dead. We all know why. And like Oldsmobile, the lineup at the time of death was the strongest the brand ever had. Arguably the Malibu is the “better” Aura. But the Aura has that European styling flavor that’s noticeably absent on the ‘bu. As someone who has driven a new Aura, I can say it is as refined and entertaining as a family sedan can get. Even though the one I drove lacked GM’s excellent 3.6L, there’s no arguing that the V6 could only improve the car.


Cadillac SRX

4. The Sigma platform (first gen) Cadillac SRX: this car was amazing, especially with the updated interior. It drove beautifully and even beat out a Porsche Cayenne in a Car and Driver comparo. It had unique styling, great engines, and superior driving dynamics. Unfortunately, tall wagons were out of style and the first-gen SRX looked too much like a wagon than a CUV. Alas, it never achieved the succes it really deserved.


Saturn Sky Redline

5. Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky: two huge problems with these vehicles prevented them from reaching their sales potential. First was the timing of both vehicles. Both Saturn and Pontiac were sent to the automotive graveyard shortly after each brand released their Kappa roadster. And being halo vehicles, these fun rear-wheel drivers were never intended to be huge sellers. But GM could have sold more copies if it had made the convertible tops go down as easily as that on the Miata. Both the Solstice and Sky drove well, looked good, and gave people something to lust after in Saturn and Pontiac showrooms.


Pontiac Solstice Coupe

What do you think? Would you add/subtract/edit my list? Let me know in the comments.

[Source: Autoblog]

In the “Mass Market Brands” category, GM dealers beamed with customer satisfaction – taking six out of the top seven spots. Ironically – Hummer took first place with a score of 815. The scores were based on a scale of 1,000. Following Hummer is the now-discontinued Saturn with 808 points. Buick came in third with 805 and Chevy took fourth wit 787. The euthanized Pontiac scored 785 (sixth) while GMC got 783 (seventh). All GM brands rated well above the industry average of 758 while PR afflicted Toyota came in eighteenth with 741 points.

In the Luxury Brand category, Cadillac finished second with a score of 827, following Lexus in the rankings. The average score was 813 for the category. Of note – (now Spyker-owned) Saab fell short of that average with a score of 796, followed by Audi, Porsche, Infiniti, and Volvo.

Experts say that most of the improvements may be attributed to lower foot traffic volumes of dealers, but it’s great to see GM brands doing so well in this nation-wide study. We have the full press release, along with J.D. Power images, right after the jump!

[Source: J.D. Power and Associates]

PRESS RELEASE

J.D. Power and Associates Reports:

Low Vehicle Sales Likely to Cause Precipitous Drop in Auto Dealer Service Visits
During the Next Several Years, Reaching Low Point in 2013

Lexus Ranks Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Dealer Service among Luxury Brands,
While HUMMER Ranks Highest among Mass Market Brands

Founded in 1888, The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP) is a leading global information services provider meeting worldwide needs in the financial services, education and business information markets through leading brands such as Standard & Poor’s, McGraw-Hill Education, Platts, Capital IQ, J.D. Power and Associates, McGraw-Hill Construction and Aviation Week. The Corporation has more than 280 offices in 40 countries. Sales in 2008 were $6.4 billion. Additional information is available at www.mcgraw-hill.com.

This means that, going forward, Spyker has taken over the reins and has assumed full responsibility for the (not so much) Swedish automaker.

John Smith, GM Vice President For Corporate Planning and Alliances, had the following to say about the development:

This transaction represents the successful outcome of months of hard work and intense negotiations, all aimed at securing a sustainable future for this unique brand, and we are pleased with the positive outcome. This is a great day for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, and a great day for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide.

GM Europe President Nick Reilly also chimed in, saying:

Throughout negotiations over the past year, GM has worked with many parties, including governments and investors, to find a solution for Saab. I’m very pleased that we could come to a positive conclusion, one that presents a viable future for Saab and preserves jobs in Sweden and elsewhere.

And this will officially put an end to GM Authority’s coverage of all things Saab… starting immediately. Unless, of course, GM has a sudden change of heart and decides to buy the brand back. But we’re not holding our breath.

Check out the full press release after the break!

PRESS RELEASE

Spyker Cars Finalizes Purchase of Saab Automobile from GM

Let’s step into the Twilight Zone of GM proposals, imagine that I just became the owner of all four of GM’s departed brands, and started another major American automotive company. I want to succeed where GM failed. Assuming I will have access to GM’s engines and platforms – future and dormant, here’s how I’d do it, brand by brand.

Pontiac

Pontiac had its shining moments, especially at the end. The G8 was a four-door juggernaut and the Solstice brought solace for those looking for an alternative to the Miata. But for every one good thing in Pontiac, two other things weren’t. Pontiac deserved to be a unique, passionate driver’s brand. I’m going to give it the grace. As far as brand positioning goes: think a mix of Mazda, Lotus, Alfa Romeo, and vintage Pontiac.

• GM shelved the Kappa II platform, but Pontiac is the perfect place for it. A re-engineered Solstice would slot well between the Mazda Miata and Lotus Elise. Use of a new engine, such as the direct-injection 1.4 liter 4cyl. with turbo and twin turbo options, will deliver the punch to the rear wheels and a removable targa top may just add the spices that make a recipe for success.
• There is a certain short-lived model that many would gladly walk across broken glass to see resurrected – the G8. Going forward, ideas such as giving it a possible four-door coupe variant and some vintage GTO undertones, such as dual headlamps on each side as well as a more fastback roofline could awaken nostalgic hearts. Once again, look to Holden to provide the framework, in this case it would be the Zeta II.
• Additionally, a C-segment sport sedan would be added to the lineup for those driving enthusiasts that prefer affordable performance, similar to what the G8 did for its segment. An AWD option would be useful for this model and would have the most variations including a coupe, hatch and convertible. It could potentially be named the G6 and could either run on a shrunken, AWD-capable Epsilon II variation or the Alpha platform.

Saab

Saab is most likely going to be better off with Spyker than it ever was with The General. Regardless, never mind the fact that it’s been sold already. This is the Twilight Zone, remember? Saab’s somewhat unique styling will make a comeback for the mid-level luxury brand that it is. Targeting Volvo, Acura, Infiniti and to some degree, even Buick. Originality, however, is key for this brand. The Swedish design must flourish. The ignition being located in the center console shouldn’t even be a question. The upcoming lineup would stay intact, but her’s a list in case someone forgot:

• C-segment: 9-3. The new 9-3 should be distinctively AWD, and have a variant that brings back the unique wagon style that made Saab a cult classic many years ago.
• E-segment: the new 9-5 is already gaining favor from both myself and many looking for a flagship AWD airplane.
• C/D-segment CUV: the Theta-based 9-4X is to be a cousin to the Cadillac SRX, which is a good thing. It should feature the same turbocharged 4cyl. engine featured in the Caddy and will be a good fit for the CUV.

Saturn

The mainstream brand of my misfit GM. Though it wouldn’t have as broad a lineup as Chevy, it would stick to more or less competing with import brands such as Honda and VW and focus on fuel economy. It would include A, B, C-segment models as well as a flagship sedan, two different-sized CUV models, and an affordable hybrid. Nothing too full-sized or hardcore, that’s for Hummer and Pontiac.

Hummer

One major contributor that turned consumers off the brand was the outright lack of fuel economy and negative perception. Luckily, GM has dormant blueprints for a 4.5 liter Duramax diesel that would be the perfect remedy for the fuel economy woes. Hummer has great potential rivaling Jeep and Land Rover. Let’s see what happens when the lineup includes models that aim at Jeep’s Cherokee and Wrangler, as well as the Land Rover LR4. A possible  Zeta-based CUV could slot in here very easily. Also, the H3T should be redesigned to prey on the Ford SVT Raptor and offer LS3 and LSA engine options, as well as more mild mannered choices. Pin it under the proven GMT-900 platform and there you have a serious multi-purpose all-terrain box of fun.

That’s what I would do. What would you do? The comments are wide open!

Spyker has outlasted all other negotiators in this deal, including Koenigsegg, Genii Capital (backed by Bernie Ecclestone), and Merbanco. What’s more, Spyker’s persistence in tirelessly trying to work out a deal and submitting revisions upon revisions of bids – sometimes at the last minute – have all paid off. Ironically, Spyker also outlasted GM – which began winding down Saab in late 2009.

As part of the transaction, Spyker will form a new company called Saab-Spyker Automobiles that will be in charge of the Saab brand. The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory, governmental, and court approvals.

Complete details of the deal have not yet been fully disclosed (GM says they will be disclosed in due time), but we’re hearing that Spyker paid $74 million in cash and provided GM another $326 million in proffered stock of the new Spyker-owned firm. The agreement is contingent upon the approval of a 400-million-euro loan from the European Investment Bank to Saab-Spyker. Vladimir Antonov, chairman of the Spyker board and the biggest backer of the Dutch exotic car maker, has agreed to step down and sell/relinquish his positions (although we’re not totally clear on this yet).

At the present, the Swedish government is in the process of reviewing the transaction. If everything goes according to plan, the deal is expected to close in mid-February. GM will immediately suspend Saab wind down activities pending the closing of the transaction.

The GM Authority Take

How quickly things can change! Just yesterday, CEO Ed Whitacre wasn’t ready to announce a deal and even stated that wind down operations of the Saab brand are ongoing. This news is great for all parties involved:

• GM becomes a leaner company, gains some cash in the process, and walks away with its tail between its legs (but is still able to look Saab fans in the eye)
• Saab is saved – along with the all-new 9-5 and 9-4X, its 1000+ dealers, and 4000+ employees, while
• Spyker acquires a legendary brand with strong brand recognition and Saab’s excellent engineers.

Personally, I can’t wait to see what awesome new products a Saab under Spyker comes out with, but I’d bet that they’ll be better than those a GM-owned Saab ever dreamed of. Stay tuned to this week’s GM Authority Weekly Podcast for the team’s thoughts and analysis.

Check out GM’s full presser after the break!

PRESS RELEASE

GM Reaches Agreement to Sell Saab to Spyker

DETROIT – General Motors and Spyker Cars NV today confirmed that they have reached a binding agreement on the purchase of Saab Automobile AB.

“Today’s announcement is great news for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, great news for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide, and great news for GM,” said John Smith, GM vice president for corporate planning and alliances.

“General Motors, Spyker Cars, and the Swedish government worked very hard and creatively for a deal that would secure a sustainable future for this unique and iconic brand, and we’re all happy for the positive outcome,” Smith said.

As part of the agreement, Spyker intends to form a new company, Saab Spyker Automobiles, which will carry the Saab brand forward. The sale will be subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory, governmental and court approvals. Other terms and conditions specific to the sale will be disclosed in due time.

The Swedish government is at present reviewing the transaction and the related request for guarantees of a Saab Automobile loan that has been requested from the European Investment Bank. Assuming quick action, the transaction is expected to close in mid-February, and previously announced wind down activities at Saab will be immediately suspended, pending the close of the transaction.

“Throughout the negotiations, GM has always had the hope to find a solution for Saab that would avoid a wind down of the brand,” added Nick Reilly, president, GM Europe. “We’ve worked with many parties over the past year, including governments and investors, and I’m very pleased that we could come to such a good conclusion, one that preserves jobs in Sweden and elsewhere. GM will continue to support Saab and Spyker on their way forward.”

###

About General Motors: General Motors, one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 204,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 140 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 34 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

Saab background: Saab entered the auto business in 1949 with the first model 92. Its aerodynamic shape and advanced technology drew from the company’s roots as an aircraft maker, and helped create what was to become a loyal and passionate customer base. GM acquired a 50 percent stake in Saab in 1990, and acquired the balance of Saab in 2000. As part of its strategy to focus on its four strongest brands in the U.S., GM began seeking a buyer for Saab in January 2009, a concerted effort that led to today’s announcement.

Over the last few months,

Although the addition of any new models to the Saab lineup is shocking (the only truly new model for the brand since GM took over is the 9-3), the fact that production is continuing and growing point to a successful sale in the near future.

It was slightly surprising that CEO Whitacre did not announce a sale last morning at his press conference, maintaining the ambiguity surrounding the Saab sales saga. Barring another 11th hour pull-out, Saab will most likely go to Spyker, and will hopefully close in the next week.

Whitacre was very optimistic about The General’s future, citing a stabilized market share even after cutting its brand portfolio in half last summer. He also told reporters that GM is “well ahead of metrics outlined in our viability plan,” something that “makes all of us happy.”

After announcing his permanent appointment to the position of CEO, Whitacre gave a very succinct update on Saab, saying that talks with Spyker Cars are ongoing, but the two companies have no deal to announce as of this morning. Whitacre added that “as of today, we have not changed the direction on the wind-down of the operation.”

According to Bloomberg, GM and Spyker officials met in Stockholm over the weekend to finalize details of a plan to sell the Swedish automaker to Spyker, and it looks like it’s the real deal this time.

For what it’s worth, Bloomberg is citing two sources close to negotiations that peg the net worth of Spyker’s offer for Saab at $500 million, made up of cash and stock. As part of the deal, Spyker would allegedly pay $75 million in cash and $325 million in preferred stock in exchange for Saab. It’s unclear where the remaining $100 million will come from.

But the purchase comes with strings attached, which – in this case – are made up of the following two contingencies. First up is Vladimir Antonov – a Russian businessman who serves as Spyker chairman and is also the largest investor in Zeewolde. Reportedly, he must leave Spyker for the deal to go through. Second is a loan from the European Investment Bank to Spyker-Saab that will be necessary for Spyker to integrate Saab appropriately.

Moreover, Genii Capital, backed by F1 tycoon Bernie Ecclestone, has formally conceded from the bidding, with Lars Carlstroem telling Bloomberg the following:

We have worked hard, unfortunately time was not on our side. We are pleased to hear about Victor [Muller, Spyker CEO] and his attempt to buy Saab. He’ll be a perfect owner for Saab going into the future.

Genii joins the growing list of bidders that have dropped out of the bidding process for Saab, including Wyoming-based Merbanco and Swedish exotic supercar maker Koenigsegg. China’s BAIC was the backer of the Koenigsegg deal, but when that fell through, decided to purchase $200 million worth of Saab technology and tooling for older Saab models such as the last-gen 9-5 and pre-2006 9-3. Meanwhile, production of the all-new 9-5 sedan has begun in Sweden.

Hit up the break for our legendary GM Authority take!

The GM Authority Take

This looks to be really good news for all parties involved and finally puts the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel (the end of the Saab Sales Saga) in focus.

The entire GM Authority team remains hopeful that Saab is sold rather than sent to the automotive graveyard. In fact, this particular blogger believes that – thanks to GM – the brand was never given the opportunity to fully realize its potential. Keep those Save Saab events going, guys & gal’s!

Stay tuned to our Saab Sales Saga series for the latest and most complete developments with the Saab sales process.

In an interview, GM’s interim CEO and Chairman Ed Whitacre revealed that The General would in fact give a second chance to roughly one hundred dealerships that were told to pack up and go home. He stated that the methods used by GM to determine which dealerships would be resurrected (and which ones would not) were “pretty arbitrary,” and that they were “not perfect in every way.”

The arbitration rules put forth by law call for interested dealers to provide notice by Janurary 25, 2010. A judgment by way of arbitration would then be made sometime in June of 2010, ultimately sealing the fate of many dealership owners. On a positive note, Big Ed mentioned that – regardless of the number of dealerships that receive the OK to re-open – GM bean counters predict profitability in 2010. Now that gives us reason to breathe a big sigh of relief!

Whitacre also reminded reporters that Saab is still for sale and that anyone who wanted to buy the Swedish brand should just “show up with the money.”

Sounds tempting…anyone want to go half-zies?

For continuing coverage of GM’s Saab Sales Saga, dealer relations, and all things General Motors be sure to check in to GM Authority as often as humanly possible!