The new Cadillac Escalade, Chevy Trailblazer, Chevy Avalanche, GMC Envoy and Oldsmobile Bravada are now eligible, under the guidelines of the GM 2001 Model Year National Fleet Purchase Program, for commercial leasing program (VX5).

All 2001 guidelines apply to the 2002 models until the publication of the 2002 model year program, at which time the 2002 guidelines will supersede the 2001 guidelines. Please refer to the "2001 Model Year Fleet Programs" section of the Purchasing News for additional information.

This incentive allowance will remain in effect for the entire 2002 model year.

Cadillac Escalade

$300

Ford has released tentative final order due dates for the 2001 MY. The dates listed below are early estimates and may change without notice. Selected options may be balanced out earlier due to high demand and capacity shortages. Ford’s acceptance of an order is not a production commitment. Please submit your final 2001 orders to ARI at least three business days prior to the final order due date.

Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) balance out information will be announced at a later date.

LA - Medium Royal Blue

PA - Deep Emerald Green

D6 - Cabernet Red

a/ Includes Stripped Chassis
b/ Includes SuperCrew

February 1, 2001 — General Motors’ Chevrolet Motor Division announced pricing for the all-new 2002 Chevy TrailBlazer. Due in dealerships by late March, the TrailBlazer is expected to go head-to-head with the all-new Ford Explorer in the midsize sport utility market segment.

TrailBlazer will be available only as a four-door model, and Chevrolet will continue to produce both 2- and 4-door Blazers until at least 2003.

The 2002 Trailblazer fleet production timing is to be determined. Currently, GM is not accepting fleet orders. Please check the ARI Production News periodically at http://www.arifleet.com for availability updates.

For additional information about the 2002 Trailblazer please visit the Fleet Library and see Purchasing News issue dated October 16, 2000.

Model

LS Two-wheel drive

$25,755

February 7, 2001 - Buick Motor Division announced the manufacturer's suggested retail price for its all-new 2002 Buick Rendezvous. The MSRP for an all-wheel drive Rendezvous equipped with Versatrak, General Motors' "on-demand" system, is $28,027. The front-wheel drive CX model without Versatrak has a base price of $25,499.

Rendezvous will be orderable with an all-speed traction control system that employs both powertrain and brake system intervention to avoid wheel spin on slippery surfaces. Versatrak also can be ordered as an option on the front-wheel drive Rendezvous CX model.

Rendezvous is the first crossover vehicle that makes available the combination of a third-row seat, which can accommodate two full-size adults comfortably, a low flat-load floor, all-wheel drive and independent rear suspension. Additionally, Rendezvous has a unique center console that is large and versatile enough to handle a full-size laptop computer and a special area for a purse or planner. There is a two-tone theme for all three trim levels - leather, flat-woven cloth with leather bolsters, and all cloth with pile fabric.

Fleet allocation and production timing for the 2002 Rendezvous is to be determined. Please check the ARI Production News periodically for availability updates and ordering information.

Nissan revealed an enhanced 2002 Xterra at the Chicago Auto Show on February 2, 2001. All 2002 Xterras feature new front-end styling that gives the Xterra a new look. Round headlights with a thick surrounding frame and a new front fascia, with the Nissan flying "V" grille and round fog lamps complete the rugged face of the new Xterra.

A new hood, with a 48mm raised "power bulge" center section, clears the way for the supercharged V6. Supercharged SE Xterras ride on 17-inch wheels with off-road 265/65R17 tires, while 16-inch wheels with 265/70R16 tires are available on XE and SE.

New exterior colors include Shock Blue, Sedona red and new trim colors have also been added. XE receives black trim around the headlights and grille, with a silver roof rack, step rails, wheels and front lower fascia. SE models come with a dark titanium finish on all exterior trim, accessories and wheels.

Optional on both XE and SE Xterras is a factory-installed supercharged 3.3-liter V6 engine. This engine, shared with the Frontier S/C compact truck, produces 210 hp. and 231 ft-lbs of torque. Supercharged Xterras are available in 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive, with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission.

The most noticeable difference between 2001 and 2002 Xterras is the revised interior. A new instrument panel, with three "cockpit-style" round gauges gives a sporty look while adding ergonomic efficiency. New HVAC controls and a new console with side map pocket add style and practicality. A 25 percent larger glove box, a map lamp with integrated compass (SE), new pull out rear cup holders and four interior power points continue Xterra’s reputation for practicality. New seat fabrics, with a new darker gray and special charcoal for supercharged SE models, are highly durable.

From a safety standpoint, the 2002 Xterra comes standard with driver and passenger side supplemental air bags. These new air bags feature dual-stage inflators with radial deployment design. Also standard on all Xterras are new rear child seat anchors, called LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children).

Fleet production of the 2002 Xterra is expected to begin in August. Order banks should be opening in July 2001.

Introduced at the Chicago Auto Show, the 2002 Ram has been completely redesigned from the ground up. The result is a new truck that is more fuel efficient, quieter, handles better and delivers more comfort and convenience than the previous model year. The new 2002 Ram features include:

New Magnum Engine and Transmission Choices

The 2002 Dodge Ram 1500 gets two new, more powerful and efficient engines and an all-new transmission. The all-new 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 engine replaces the 3.9-liter V-6. It produces 210 hp., compared to 175 hp. with the 3.9-liter engine. The 4.7-liter Magnum V-8 replaces the 5.2-liter V-8. Like the new Magnum V-6, it delivers more peak power and fuel economy. Horsepower is increased to 235 on the 4.7-liter engine from 230 on the 5.2-liter engine. When mated to the 45RFE automatic transmission (new for Ram), these new engine choices offer a whole new level of quietness and responsiveness.

Interior Comfort and Convenience

Both the Quad Cab and Regular Cab feature improved front seat storage and convenience features. The 40/20/40 front seat provides comfortable seating for three people or ample center storage for one or two occupants. The popular center "business console" can hold a laptop, and now features fold-down dividers. The center "20" portion of the seat offers under-cushion storage. The rear seats feature an optional 60/40 split to accommodate passengers and cargo together. Optional power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals help shorter drivers feel more comfortable.

The 2002 Ram 1500 will be available in two cab choices — Regular and Quad Cab — and in both 2WD and 4WD. The base model is the ST, with Sport, SLT and SLT+ packages available.

Production will begin on the 2002 Ram 1500 in the summer of 2001. Production of the current 2500 and 3500 models will continue for one more model year. All-new versions of the 2500 and 3500 will be introduced for the 2003 model year.

February 2, 2001 - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. has reduced prices for its 4Runner mid-size sport utility vehicle to offer great value similar to the all-new Toyota Highlander mid-size SUV that went on sale in mid-January.

Price reductions include $1,000 on all 4Runner SR5 models (compared to vehicles equipped with Extra Value Packages) and $1,500 on the Limited premium grade.

The $1,000 price reduction of the SR5 model is achieved through the standardization of an Extra Value Package formerly priced at $980. The contents of the value package, which included air conditioning, power windows, a 3-in-1 AM/FM/Cassette/CD player with six speakers, a keyless entry system, power antenna, tonneau cover and floor mats, are now standard equipment. The $980 savings are complemented by a $20 decrease in the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of all SR5 models. The MSRP of the 4Runner SR5 4x2 has decreased from $26,355 to $26,335 while the MSRP of the SR5 4x4 has decreased from $28,895 to $28,875. However, on a comparably equipped basis, the price of the 4Runner SR5 has decreased by 8.3 percent, or $2,200, for the 4x2 and 7.6 percent, or $2,200, for the 4x4.

The price of the 4x2 Limited has decreased 4.3 percent from $34,955 to $33,455 while the price of the 4x4 Limited has decreased 4.0 percent from $37,605 to $36,105.

2001 Grand Marquis LSE

The Grand Marquis LSE package (option code - 652) is available on the LS model and includes: Handling package, 5-passenger seating, floor console with storage, floor console shift, leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio, temperature and speed controls and a rear center armrest with cupholder.

The LSE package has a MSRP of $895 and it requires the Premium package (68E) at an additional $1,120.

2001 Grand Marquis Limited

The Limited package is also available on the LS model and includes: Wood/leather steering wheel, 16" Lacy Spoke aluminum wheels, 6-passenger seating, light parchment leather seat trim, rear center armrest with cupholder and "Limited" script on the seat backs and floor mats.

The MSRP for the Limited package is $555 and it requires either the Premium package (68E) at an additional $1,120 or the Ultimate package (68F) at $2,520.

Availability

Orders are now being accepted for the LSE and the Limited packages. The Limited is currently in production and the LSE is expected to begin production on March 5, 2001.

Manufactured in St. Thomas, Ontario the Grand Marquis Limited and the Grand Marquis LSE will arrive at dealerships in early April.

Following the 2001 Frontier’s dramatic restyling, the 2002 Frontier model adds two new major enhancements: a completely upgraded interior and the Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed, with the longest bed in the compact crew cab truck class.

The 2002 Frontier will be available in a choice of 19 different models, including King Cab, Desert Runner, Frontier Crew Cab and Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed, 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations and XE, SE and S/C (supercharged) trim levels.

The Frontier’s interior enhancements, which are shared with the improved 2002 Xterra sport utility vehicle, include a new instrument panel with three "cockpit-style" round gauges, new HVAC controls and a new console with side map pocket. A 25 percent larger glove box and up to three interior power points make Frontier even more practical than before.

The most significant improvement made to the 2002 Frontier lineup is the introduction of the Frontier Crew Cab Long Bed, which adds a 74.6-inch full-size bed to the four forward-hinged full-size door cabin. The standard Frontier Crew Cab offers a 56.3-inch bed. It is available in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive. All Frontier Crew Cabs are built on the heavy duty 4-wheel drive Frontier chassis.

Fleet ordering availability for the 2002 Frontier is expected in July 2001.

Ford is now offering a Windstar Mobility Converter Prep Package (option code 96M). This package is designed specifically for converters who produce vehicles to transport physically challenged passengers.

The MSRP for the new Windstar Mobility Converter Prep package is $800. It is available only through Ford dealers and Ford authorized converters.

All fleet units are eligible for Mobility Motoring incentives of up to $1,000, as well as currently available national fleet incentives.

Available on Windstar SE Sport

Package Contents

For additional information, Fleet Managers may call 1-800-34-FLEET (please have your Ford FIN code ready) or contact your ARI Representative.

January 29, 2001 - Chrysler Group has announced the next major part of its turnaround plan to regain competitiveness under difficult business circumstances.

Over the course of the next three years, the Chrysler Group will reduce its workforce by approximately 20 percent. The reduction will be approximately the same percentage for both salaried and hourly employees. This will affect about 26,000 people - 19,000 hourly and 6,800 salaried - through a combination of retirements, special programs, layoffs and attrition.

It is expected that 75 percent of the overall reduction will be achieved in 2001. This is being done within the framework of existing union contracts.

A series of manufacturing actions will be necessary to attain the objectives, including reducing shifts and line speeds, as well as idling selected plants to adjust production capacity at Chrysler manufacturing operations around the world. At this point in time, the company plans to reduce excess capacity by idling six manufacturing facilities over the next two years.

In addition, all facilities have new targets to accelerate quality levels and productivity, so that the company can operate more efficiently and at an improved cost structure over the mid- to long-term.

The full Chrysler turnaround plan will be presented to the public at the DaimlerChrysler Annual Press Conference on February 26, 2001.

February 12, 2001 - Ford Motor Company and Navistar International Corporation, two leaders in the global truck and engine business, announced that they intend to form a joint venture to build commercial trucks. They also intend to explore opportunities for greater cooperation in diesel engines for potential application in Ford's full range of truck products.

The alliance, yet to be named, will include production of Class 6 and 7 medium-duty commercial trucks that will be marketed separately under the Ford brand for sale in North America and Navistar’s International® brand. The alliance will also look beyond medium trucks to explore opportunities in smaller commercial vehicles and diesel engine applications. It will be a 50-50 joint venture -- both companies will have equal representation on the venture’s board of directors, and neither company will have an equity stake in the other's parent company.

The joint venture is pending regulatory approval, due diligence and final agreement on the business details by Ford Motor Company and Navistar International Corporation

When a "stock purchase" is desired, you may consider using a vehicle from the ARI "pool"
to save money and time.

Call your ARI representative for details!