PURCHASING NEWS

Pool Vehicles

2003 Model Year
Plant Start-Up Dates

2003 Model Year
Fleet Programs

Issue 224– December 9, 2002

EnviroFleet; ARI's Environmental Fleet Technology Newsletter

GM's OnStar for 2003

For additional information go to
http://www.OnStar.com

Ford Offers New Interior Packages on 2003 Taurus Sedan and Wagon

2003 Ford Taurus Sedan

Ford is introducing two new interior packages for the 2003 Ford Taurus Sedan and Wagon, investing in numerous comfort, convenience and manufacturing refinements.

New 2003 Taurus design features and options include:

An optional Woodgrain package that includes a real wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel and a faux wood shift knob accent
An optional Sport sedan package that includes 5-spoke 16-inch aluminum sport wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, two-tone cloth sport seats, a rear deck lid spoiler and a pewter-brush finish on the instrument panel and console
New richer-looking seat fabrics, which are available in midnight black, two-tone parchment and two-tone graphite cloth
New seat leathers are available, including soft, premium Imola leather, which is available in monochromatic midnight black, two-tone parchment or two-tone graphite
An available monochromatic midnight graphite interior is now offered and the available two-tone parchment interior now uses lighter shades to make the cabin feel brighter and airier; on some models, the instrument clusters are color-keyed to the interior

The interior upgrades complement the functional upgrades and manufacturing process improvements that make the car quieter, more refined and help improve quality:

Overall noise levels in the cabin are substantially reduced due to improved cabin sealing against wind and road noise
A 30 percent power increase for the rear defroster results in noticeably faster clearing of snow, condensation and ice
New front brake pad materials help reduce noise. In addition, new equipment at the two plants that build Taurus helps improve brake pedal feel by ensuring consistent evacuation and fill of the brake system during assembly

Taurus design and manufacturing improvements are ongoing, with design teams focused on areas with high leverage for customer satisfaction, including wind noise reduction, paint quality, powertrain performance, cabin heating and cooling system performance and other areas.

Taurus is available in two body styles: a four-door sedan that seats five or six passengers and a four-door, seven-or eight-passenger station wagon. The sedan is available in four trim series: LX, SE, SES and top-of-the-line SEL. The mid-range SE and SES are the most popular series with individual consumers.

Manufacturer Holiday Plant Closings

DaimlerChrysler, Ford and GM will be closed for the Christmas Holiday beginning Monday December 23^rd through Wednesday January 1^st. Normal business will resume on Thursday January 2, 2003.

Holiday plant closings will extend normal lead times for vehicles scheduled for mid- to late-December production.

Toyota Announces Prices for All-New 4Runner V6

2002 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota recently released MSRP prices for the 2003 4Runner mid-size SUV with a new V6 engine. The all-new 4Runner V8 was launched in mid-October, the 4Runner V6 begins arriving in dealer showrooms this month.

The lightweight engine is Toyota's first all-aluminum engine in a light truck. It features variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and a new linkless electronic throttle control system with intelligence (ETCS-i) that helps improve performance and increase fuel economy.

The engine will deliver 245 horsepower at 5,200 RPM and will generate one of the highest 6-cylinder torque capabilities in the mid-SUV segment with 28/2 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,800 RPM.

In addition to the added power, the new engine is EPA certified as a Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) with preliminary EPA city/highway gas mileage of 18/21 mpg for all 2WD models and 17/21 mpg for all 4WD models.

The base MSRP for the SR5 4x2 model will be $27,205, an increase of $870 or 3.3 percent. An MSRP of $29,480 for the SR5 4x4 represents an increase of $605, or 2.1 percent.

The MSRP for the all-new Sport Edition will range from $29,000 for the 4x2 to $31,275 for the 4x4.

The Limited model receives a price decrease with a base MSRP of $33,405 for the 4x2 – a reduction of $50 or 0.1 percent. The MSRP for the Limited 4x4 is $35,680 representing a decrease of $425 or 1.2 less than the previous generation.

The 2003 Toyota 4Runner is offered with a $400 National Fleet Incentive for qualified Fleet customers.

GM Clarifies Equipment Availability on Select 2003 Models

Silverado/Sierra

Please be advised that the enhanced description for the (DL3) mirrors is as follows: Outside rearview, power folding, power heated, black, driver side electrochromic (light sensitive to auto-dimming), turn signal in glass with ground illumination and curb-tilt.

For LS models, the curb-tilt feature requires (UK3) steering wheel mounted radio controls and (DIC) Radio and Driver Information Center.

On LT models with (AN3) seats, the (DL3) mirror includes a memory feature.

Venture

When ordering 1UN16 with 1SC Package or 1UM16 with 1SC, 1SD, 1SE, 1SF or 1SG Packages, the base mirror is (DR5) power heated mirrors.

The Climate Package (PCM) now includes (DR5) power heated mirrors except when the 1SV Package is ordered.

When ordering a 1UN16 or 1UM16 with a 1SA Package, the standard mirror is (DL6) power outside mirror. (PDC) Safety and Security Package is an available option with this model/package combination.

Model 1UN16 with the 1SV Package comes with a base manual mirror (DR1).

Blazer 4-Door

GM has made some minor changes to the free-flow option availability for the 2003 Blazer 4-Door. The following options are now available on the 4-Door Blazer with equipment group 1SC only:

(DK8) Deluxe overhead console, which includes outside temperature gauge, compass, trip computer and universal garage door opener, as well as interior and driver side electrochromic mirrors (DD0)
(UK3) Steering wheel mounted radio controls
(NP8) Electronic Autotrac transfer case (4WD models only)

Chrysler Group to Offer Diesel-Powered Jeep® Liberty for North American Market

According to DaimlerChrysler, the United States could reduce its oil use by approximately 800 million gallons and carbon dioxide emissions by 8 million tons annually, if Americans purchased diesels at the same rate as Europeans. To encourage American acceptance of diesel vehicles, DaimlerChrysler President and Chief Executive Officer Dieter Zetsche announced that Chrysler Group will test the North American market with a diesel-powered Jeep® Liberty beginning in 2004.

At the time of the announcement, Zetsche also called on regulators and oil refiners to work together to resolve the diesel emissions challenges that will be tested by new tailpipe standards that will go into effect in 2006

"The best way to show our commitment to work together is to bring a modern, clean diesel passenger vehicle to the market, which we intend to do," Zetsche said.

While DaimlerChrysler offers a range of diesel-powered passenger vehicles in Europe, where approximately 35 percent of vehicles are powered by diesel engines, the Jeep Liberty will become the first light-duty SUV with a diesel powertrain to go on sale in the United States and Canada.

"Today's modern diesel vehicles should be part of the solution to improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon dioxide emissions," Zetsche said. "Diesels lead to up to a 30 percent improvement in fuel economy, while reducing carbon dioxide emissions an average of 20 percent."

Zetsche also said that, on average, diesel fuel offered in Europe is six times cleaner than that offered in the U.S. due to a much lower sulfur content extracted during the refining process.

The diesel Jeep Liberty will be powered by a 2.8-liter common rail turbo-diesel engine produced by DaimlerChrysler. It will be available with a manual or automatic transmission, as well as two- or four-wheel drive. It is expected that the diesel-powered Liberty will have up to a 30 percent improvement in fuel economy, versus the conventional gasoline-powered Liberty.

AAA Offers Winter Preparation and Driving Tips

Preparing your vehicle for the rigors of winter driving can eliminate the possibility of a preventable break-down, says AAA Washington.

By taking time to regularly assess the condition of your vehicle, you improve the chances of avoiding breaking down on the road. Have your dealership's service center check the following:

Battery: Recharge or replace weak batteries and clean battery posts. Check for cracks and bulging sides on battery case.
Engine Oil: Check levels and change according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Lights: Check exterior lights and clean lenses.
Brake System: Check braking resistance and brake fluid.
Tires: Check for proper inflation, tread depth and condition.
Heating and Cooling System: Check radiator and hoses for leaks and cracks. Add antifreeze mixture if low and flush system and replenish if discolored. Test heater and defroster.
Windshield Wipers: Replace wiper blades every 6 months.
Fill washer fluid.

Starting in snow:

Clear a path in front of the wheels for several feet.
When more traction is needed, use traction mats, sand or salt.

Driving On Slippery Surfaces:

Gently apply pressure on the accelerator when starting.
If your wheels start to spin let up on the accelerator until traction returns.
When approaching a hill, observe how others are reacting and keep far enough behind the vehicle ahead so you won't have to slow down or stop.
Minimize braking on icy hills; if further speed reduction is needed, gentle braking is recommended to avoid skidding.

Steering:

If a skid should develop, DON'T PANIC, DON'T BRAKE and don't jerk the steering wheel.
To regain directional control, look to where you want to go and make smooth, precise steering movements.

Braking without antilock brakes:

Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use your toes to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal just short of lockup, the point at which the wheels stop turning. Be sure to keep your heel on the floor.
If the wheels lock up, use heel-and-toe action to release brake pressure one or two degrees then immediately reapply it with slightly less pressure.

Braking with antilock brakes:

When you put on the brakes hard enough to make the wheels lock momentarily, you will typically feel the brake pedal pulse back against your foot.
Do not pump the pedal or remove your foot from the brake. The system is working as it was designed to work.

Additional Winter Driving Tips from AAA:

Increase your following distance.
Slow down, it takes longer to stop on slick roadways.
If your vehicle begins to skid, don't hit the brakes. Ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction of the skid to regain control.
After driving through standing water, gently apply the brakes to dry them.
Clear all snow and ice from the entire vehicle before departing.
Avoid driving when visibility is poor.
Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze up.
Carry a winter driving kit with you.

Motor Trend Names Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan and Sport Coupe 2003 Car of the Year


2003 Infiniti G35 Sport Coupe	2003 Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan

Motor Trend magazine chose the Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan and Sport Coupe as the 2003 Car of the Year. Now in its 54th year, the Motor Trend Car of the Year is the most coveted and most recognized award in the auto industry.

The editorial staff of Motor Trend conducted testing on 27 new vehicles from the U.S., Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, Sweden and Korea for this competition. Thousands of miles of test track and street driving in a wide variety of weather and road conditions were required to complete the staff's tough road testing.

Including both domestic and import manufacturers, the following models were part of the competition: BMW 7 Series, Cadillac CTS, Dodge Viper SRT-10, Honda Accord Coupe, Honda Accord Sedan, Honda Civic Hybrid, Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Tiburon, Infiniti G35 Sport Coupe, Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan, Infiniti M45, Lincoln Town Car, Mazda 6, Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Mercury Marauder, Mini Cooper, Mini Cooper S, Nissan 350Z, Pontiac Vibe, Saab 93, Saturn Ion, Suzuki Aerio, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Corolla Matrix, and Volkswagen Passat W8.

Motor Trend's Car of the Year award seeks to recognize overall significance, competitiveness within a market segment, and value for money. In making the selection, the editors evaluate many factors, including styling and design; fit, finish and materials; engineering and technology; interior; safety; performance; and value.

"The modern, midsize sports-sedan category is hot right now, with many worthy contenders. But the new Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan has really capitalized on the formula, and applied its own brand of cool, casual luxury with an impressive measure of performance," commented Kevin Smith, Editor-in-Chief of Motor Trend. "The sinuous G35 Sport Coupe carves out its own place at the top of our list – with style, performance, luxury, and value for money."

The complete report on the 2003 Car of the Year can be found in the January 2003 issue of Motor Trend.

All-New 2003 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan Off to a Strong Start

2003 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan

Saab Cars USA reported sales of 1,023 all-new 9-3 Sport Sedans for November, the first full month of sales for the Swedish automaker's newest model. This volume more than doubles the quantity of old 9-3 hardtops, three- and five-door hatchbacks combined, sold in November 2001.

"The new Sport Sedan is reinvigorating Saab in the marketplace," said Richard O'Kelley, Vice President of Sales for Saab Cars USA. "We're seeing more dealer traffic, more test drives, higher consideration, and increased overall brand awareness."

For total November sales, Saab Cars USA retailed 2,772 units, a 6.5 percent increase over last November.

The 2003 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan is offered with a $500 National Fleet Incentive for eligible fleet accounts. ARI is capable of placing factory orders for all 2003 Saab models.

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Purchasing News Home

Pool Vehicle Inventory

CARS
Year	Make	Cyl	Model	Dr	Location	Invoice	Ref #
02	Buick	6	LeSabre Custom	4	Phoenix, AR	$22,683	03441

TRUCKS
Year	Make	Cyl	Model	Location	Invoice	Ref #
02	Chevrolet	8	3500 HD Chassis Cab	Grand Island, NE	$25,686	Multiple
03	Chevrolet	6	Astro Passenger Van	Raleigh, NC	$21,524	22050
03	Ford	6	Ranger 4x4 Super Cab	Smyrna, GA	$18,421	21285
03	Ford	8	F-250 Chassis Cab 4x2	Norwalk, CA	$19,182	Multiple
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!

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