CHINA/GERMANY RECALL - Mercedes to recall 149,000 E-Class and CLS models due to safety reasons.

Daimler-Benz is recalling about 149,000 Mercedes-Benz cars in China and Germany for safety reasons.

Daimler said insulating panel seals in the engine bay could come loose, and in rare cases could come into contact with hot components. The company said it was offering to secure the panels with four brackets, which would take about 15 minutes and would be free for customers.

Daimler knew of 127,000 affected E-class and CLS vehicles in China and 22,000 in Germany, the automaker said on Monday.

New Aerokit for the Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S

Porsche Exclusive is now offering an Aerokit for the Porsche 911 Turbo models. This performance package includes a new, distinctive front spoiler and a completely redesigned rear deck lid that has a fixed rear spoiler with side winglets while maintaining the automatically adjusting rear wing. 

The expressive front spoiler with side fins and the striking rear fascia add even more character and sportiness to the car's traditional 911 Turbo silhouette.

Along with an attractive look, aerodynamic function was also a top priority during development. The “Aerokit Turbo” underwent extensive wind tunnel testing and test drives on the test circuit at the Porsche Development Center in Weissach, Germany. 

The key goal in its development was to improve driving dynamics by further increasing downforce, while preserving the same coefficient of drag as the standard equipment. This ensured the proper integration of the flow-optimized Aerokit into the harmoniously balanced overall concept of the high-performance 911 Turbo models. 

For example, the aerodynamic components of the "Aerokit Turbo" generate even more downforce at the front and rear axles, which increase driving stability, particularly at high speeds. 

For instance, the total downforce generated by the 911 Turbo adaptive aerodynamics at 186 mph on the track was increased by 37 lbs, to 57 lbs, in the Speed setting, and by 40 lbs, to 331 lbs, in the Performance setting.

Customers can order one of two versions of the "Aerokit Turbo" – in the car's body color or in high-gloss black. In addition to the Aerokit add-ons, the standard side skirts and rear fascia are also painted. In the black version, the air intake cover on the rear lid is also painted black to match the retractable rear wing.

The Aerokit will be available on all 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S models worldwide via Porsche Exclusive, or it can be retrofitted by Porsche Tequipment. The "Aerokit Turbo" can now be ordered from Porsche Exclusive when ordering a new car at the MSRP of $6,950. 

Aerokit retrofitting will also be offered by Porsche Tequipment through participating authorized Porsche dealers, with an MSRP of $6,886 (excluding paint finish, assembly, and installation). All provisions of the vehicle warranty remain in force in the case of retrofitting of the genuine Porsche Tequipment component at an authorized Porsche dealer.

Porsche introduces a new addition to its line of revered GT high performance models; the Cayman GT4.

Porsche is proud to introduce a new addition to its line of revered GT high performance models; the Cayman GT4. This is the first time Porsche has introduced such a focused GT model based on the mid-engined, two-seat Cayman coupe. 

Sharing components and genetic spirit with the iconic 911 GT3, a lap time of 7 min 40 sec around the Nürburgring Nordschleife places the Cayman GT4 emphatically as the new benchmark at the top of its market segment. 

It also makes a clear statement that Porsche will continue to promote radical two-door sports cars now and in the future - sports cars that are developed at the company’s Motorsport department in Weissach.

The engine, chassis, brakes and aerodynamic design of the Cayman GT4 are configured for maximum driving dynamics; yet the top model still retains the versatility and everyday utility that are typical of a Porsche.

The Cayman GT4 is powered by a mid-mounted, 3.8-litre flat-six engine with 385 hp (283 kW) produced at 7,400 rpm, which is derived from the 911 Carrera S engine. Its power is transmitted by a standard six-speed manual gearbox with dynamic gearbox mounts - there is no PDK transmission option. This translates in to acceleration from zero to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds; top speed is 183 mph. The car's NEDC fuel consumption is 27.4 mpg, equivalent to 238 g/km CO₂.

The body is lowered by 30 mm versus the standard Cayman, and features a purposefully-proportioned brake system. Furthermore, the chassis has been comprehensively fine-tuned with many components shared with the 911 GT3.

Fit for the race track: first Porsche Cayman with downforce on both axles

The new GT4 is clearly differentiated from its brothers in the Cayman range. Three distinctive inlet openings in the nose and a large fixed rear wing are part of an aerodynamic package which is systematically designed to not only reduce lift but also generate downforce.

Upon request, the Cayman GT4 can be equipped even more comprehensively for more sporting, or track day driving. Options include PCCB ceramic brakes, shell-backed seats made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), a custom Sport Chrono Package with the unique Track Precision app, and a Club Sport Package.

The interior of the Cayman GT4 is designed so that the driver and passenger can become immersed in unfiltered driving enjoyment. Sports seats, upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara, are distinguished by very good lateral support. Due to its compact dimensions, the new GT4 sports steering wheel guarantees ideal control and direct steering feedback.

Technical aspects of the new Cayman GT4 are based on the 911 GT3. As a mid-engined sports car and a prime example of driving dynamics in its class,  it follows the conceptual tradition of such cars as the 904 GTS, 911 GT1, Carrera GT and 918 Spyder.

GT sports cars from Porsche embody the most passionate transfer of technology from the race track to the road, and clearly demonstrate the sporting core of the brand: Intelligent Performance. Four out of five drivers of Porsche GT models also use their cars to participate in track days and club motorsport.

The Cayman GT4 goes on sale in Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland today priced from £64,451 (€119,594 incl. VRT & VAT in Dublin), and will celebrate its world premiere in March at the Geneva International Motor Show. First customer deliveries are scheduled in the summer.

Standard equipment includes bi-Xenon headlights, sports exhaust, Sport Chrono Pack with dynamic engine mounts, leather/Alcantara interior trim, sports seats, 20-inch alloy wheels, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with mechanical rear limited slip differential, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity, air conditioning, Porsche Stability Management (PSM), a Porsche Vehicle Tracking anti-theft system and a three-year warranty. Customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

Ford launches all new race bred, stunning new Focus RS, the Cosworth Spiritual successor.

• Ford previews all-new Focus RS; high-performance hatchback pioneers advanced technology to deliver the ultimate fun-to-drive experience
• Third-generation Focus RS will be available in major markets around the world for the first time and follows the reveal last month of the new Ford GT supercar as part of a new era of Ford performance that will deliver 12 new vehicles by 2020
• Developed by the Ford Performance team, RS features ground-breaking new Ford Performance All-Wheel-Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring for class-leading cornering speed and limit handling
• 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine developed for RS and specially engineered to deliver in excess of 320PS. Dramatic exterior design offers enhanced aerodynamics and cooling
• New Focus RS will be the 30^th vehicle to wear the RS badge since 1968; will be built in Saarlouis, Germany, starting late this year
• Professional rally driver and star of Gymkhana films Ken Block teamed with Ford as a consultant on the development of Focus RS
• Further media material at www.fordmedia.eu and more product details to be announced at Geneva Motor Show

Ford today previewed the all-new Ford Focus RS, a high-performance road car that debuts the innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel-Drive,  delivering class-leading cornering speed, thrilling performance and unbridled driving enjoyment.

The Focus RS – equipped with a special 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine engineered to produce well in excess of 320PS – is the latest vehicle to be unveiled as part of a new era of Ford performance that will bring more than 12 performance vehicles to global customers by 2020.

In addition to pleasing enthusiasts, these vehicles help deliver the company’s One Ford plan for profitable growth, product excellence and innovation in every part of its business.

“The all-new Focus RS is a serious machine with high-performance technology and innovative engineering that sets a new benchmark for driving exhilaration on the road and track,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development, Ford Motor Company. 

“The RS line has a proud history of technical breakthroughs that have migrated to mainstream Fords to benefit all of our customers, and the new Focus RS is no exception. It’s a great example of our passion for innovation through performance and creating vehicles that make people’s hearts pound.”

Developed by a small team of Ford Performance engineers in Europe and US, the new Focus RS is the third generation of Focus RS cars, following models launched in 2002 and 2009. It will be the 30^th car to wear the legendary RS badge, following such technology trendsetters as the 16-valve 1970 Escort RS1600, the turbocharged Sierra RS Cosworth of 1985 with its radical aerodynamics, and the four-wheel-drive 1992 Escort RS Cosworth.

Sporting a dramatic exterior design that delivers enhanced aerodynamics and cooling, the new Focus RS offers technologies new to the RS marque including Ford SYNC connectivity.

The all-new Focus RS is the first ever RS model that will be sold around the world and will be produced for all markets at Ford’s Saarlouis, Germany, manufacturing plant beginning late this year.

“The new Focus RS represents Ford at its passionate best – delivering innovation, unmatched driving dynamics and stunning performance that was previously the sole province of high-priced performance luxury marques and exotics,” said Jim Farley, president, Ford of Europe, Middle East and Africa. “We are acutely aware of the benchmarks we have set ourselves with RS performance models through the years, and rest assured that this new car raises the game to a new level.

“Just as important is the fact that with technologies such as EcoBoost, we are able to demonstrate how an innovation that powers almost every car in our range can also be the heartbeat of our finest performance cars.”

Gymkhana and World Rallycross star Ken Block was brought on as a consultant on the all-new Focus RS and joined the Ford Performance team at the preview event in Cologne, Germany – the city where the RS legend was born in 1968 with the Ford 15M RS.

Innovative Ford Performance All-Wheel-Drive offers unmatched handling

The all-new Focus RS exploits the innovative new Ford Performance All-Wheel-Drive with Dynamic Torque Vectoring to deliver a new level of handling capability and driver enjoyment, combining outstanding traction and grip with unmatched agility and cornering speed.

The Ford Performance AWD system is based on twin electronically-controlled clutch packs on each side of the rear drive unit. These manage the car’s front/rear torque split, and also can control the side-to-side torque distribution on the rear axle – delivering the “torque vectoring” capability, which has a dramatic impact on handling and cornering stability.

The control unit in the rear drive unit continuously varies the front/rear and side-to-side torque distribution to suit the current driving situation, monitoring inputs from multiple vehicle sensors 100 times per second. A maximum of 70 per cent of the drive torque can be diverted to the rear axle. Up to 100 per cent of the available torque at the rear axle can be sent to each rear wheel.

During cornering, the rear drive unit pre-emptively diverts torque to the outer rear wheel immediately based on inputs such as steering wheel angle, lateral acceleration, yaw and speed. This torque transfer has the effect of “driving” the car into the bend, achieving improved turn-in and stability, and virtually eliminating understeer.

The AWD system has been tuned to deliver exceptional grip – with lateral acceleration exceeding 1 g – and class-leading cornering speed and acceleration out of a bend. With neutral and adjustable limit handling, and the ability to achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track; the Focus RS delivers the ultimate fun-to-drive experience.

“This AWD system is a breakthrough technology, capable of delivering supreme cornering and handling at the limit,” said Dave Pericak, director, Global Ford Performance. “We have ripped up the rulebook which says that AWD hatchbacks cannot be fun to drive, and have created a car which will surprise and reward in equal measure.”

To deliver optimum driving dynamics, the Ford Performance AWD system was calibrated alongside the car’s advanced Electronic Stability Control, in particular the brake-based Torque Vectoring Control system that works in parallel with the torque-vectoring AWD.

Other exclusive chassis features include sports suspension with spring rates, bushes and anti-roll-bars all of which are stiffer than those found in the Focus ST, and two-mode switchable dampers, which offer a firmer setting for track driving. A carefully tuned electric power-assisted steering system (EPAS), working in combination with a more rigid front suspension knuckle design and shorter link arms, delivers connected and responsive steering with outstanding feel.

“The Focus ST and Fiesta ST showed that we can achieve sporty steering feel with an EPAS system, and the RS raises the bar. We set out to provide keen drivers with steering which is very direct, precise and well balanced – and the RS delivers,” Pericak added.

Ford engineers worked closely with Michelin to develop a choice of high-performance 235/35 R19 tyres to complement the driving dynamics of the Focus RS; a standard Pilot Super Sport tyre for every-day use; and – for the first time on an RS – an optional Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyre for enhanced vehicle dynamics on the track.

The vehicle’s exterior design has also been developed to support the dynamic objectives. Careful aerodynamic optimisation of the front splitter, rear spoiler and underbody features eliminates lift forces, and the final design delivers a balanced performance with zero lift front and rear for optimum high-speed handling and stability.

Unique powertrain for increased output

Ford’s EcoBoost technology powers the Focus RS and nearly every new Ford vehicle. The specially engineered 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine has levels of power and torque that translate into impressive acceleration when combined with the exceptional AWD traction.

Projected to deliver well in excess of 320PS, the bespoke unit shares its fundamental structure with the all-aluminium four-cylinder 2.3-litre engine in the all-new Mustang. This engine has, however, been significantly upgraded through a comprehensive package of design changes.

Increased output is generated by a new low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with larger compressor that delivers significantly greater air flow, along with a much bigger intercooler to maximise charge density. Engine breathing also is enhanced through a less restrictive intake design, and a large-bore high performance exhaust system with an electronically controlled valve in the tailpipe that helps optimise the balance of back pressure and noise output.

The cylinder head is produced from an upgraded alloy material capable of withstanding higher temperatures, and is mounted on a more robust head gasket with improved thermal capability. The cylinder block employs stronger high-tensile cast iron liners.

Engine cooling also has been given the highest priority, with engineers creating additional space within the front of the vehicle to house a significantly larger radiator pack – the biggest ever fitted to a Focus – that provides the level of cooling demanded for hard circuit use.

Meticulous calibration work has ensured that the power unit delivers excellent low-end responsiveness with a powerful mid-range pull, climbing to a free-revving top-end up to a maximum rev limit of 6,800 rpm.

Inspiring performance demands an inspiring soundtrack. Ford Performance engineers have tuned the RS to deliver a rewarding and sporty sound character during spirited driving, with the distinctive burbles, pops and crackles that are a RS signature.

“This very special 2.3-litre EcoBoost unit will inspire drivers as they feel the surge of the turbo, and reward them as they take it to the red line – all delivered with a stirring sound guaranteed to put a smile on your face,” Pericak said.

The six-speed manual transmission has been optimised for the enthusiast driver with a shorter gear lever to deliver faster and more accurate shifts. Both the transmission and the clutch have been upgraded with stronger components to cope with the engine’s increased torque output.

With its high-efficiency EcoBoost design featuring direct fuel injection, twin independent variable camshaft timing and advanced turbocharging, the engine also delivers significantly improved fuel consumption. With Auto-Start-Stop fitted as standard, preliminary figures indicate that CO₂ emissions will be significantly reduced compared with the previous model.

High-performance design for stunning looks with optimum function

The Focus RS exterior design is both dramatic and functional, with a more powerful and muscular character. Designers worked closely with Ford Performance to ensure that the necessary functional attributes were achieved, focusing on the aerodynamic downforce and balance delivered by the design, as well as the cooling demands of the powertrain and brakes.

“This is the ultimate Focus – stunning to look at, and entirely fit for purpose,” said Joel Piaskowski, director, Design, Ford of Europe. “RS models have always been striking, high-performance cars where function is paramount. This new Focus RS is true to that heritage.”

Based on the new Focus, the RS features a powerful new front-end appearance with a bold upper trapezoidal grille above the deep front splitter, incorporating the largest possible apertures for engine cooling. A wide, muscular stance is emphasised by the lower wings and large outboard openings on each side of the car, which feed the brake cooling ducts and house vertically-mounted fog lamps.

At the rear, the fascia panel is dominated by the exceptionally large diffuser, which optimises air flow from under the vehicle to reduce drag, and contains the twin round high-performance exhaust outlets and, in Europe and Asia, a clear central fog lamp. The distinctive rear roof spoiler is carefully integrated with the car’s silhouette through body-coloured side panels featuring a subtle embossed RS logo.

The dynamic side-profile is emphasised by sculptured rocker panels, and the bold wheel lips that house a choice of multi-spoke 19-inch RS alloy wheels – including a high-performance lightweight forged design finished in low-gloss black, which offers enhanced strength and impact resistance with weight savings of 1kg per wheel.

Standard Bi-Xenon HID headlamps offer Adaptive Front Lighting, which adjusts the intensity and angle of the headlamp beams according to vehicle speed, steering angle and distance to objects for optimal illumination. Customers also can specify the latest Active City Stop automatic braking technology which operates at speeds of up to 31mph.

The high-performance character of the RS is reflected inside the car with heavily-bolstered partial-leather Recaro sports seats as the centrepiece of the cockpit. Signature RS Recaro shell seats, with authentic motorsport microfibre fabric panels, are an option for customers in Europe and Asia.

The interior features the redesigned Focus control layout with its simpler, more intuitive design. SYNC connectivity provides access to audio, navigation, climate control and mobile phones via voice control, and via a high-definition, eight-inch colour touchscreen. Simple voice commands such as “Find a race track” enable RS owners to get instant directions to the nearest public circuit. SYNC also can be specified with Rear View Camera with park distance control, as well as a Sony premium sound system with 10-speakers including a subwoofer.

The RS driving experience is reinforced by a new flat-bottomed steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim, alloy foot pedals, and unique instrument graphics within the main cluster. An additional bank of gauges above the centre console display turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure.

Throughout the cabin, the distinctive blue RS theme is echoed through stitching on the seats, steering wheel, floor mats and interior trim, the coloured graphic on the gear shifter, and via the RS logo itself, which is proudly displayed on the seats, steering wheel and door scuff plates.

Four striking exterior colours include Nitrous Blue, a vibrant four-coat metallic finish exclusive to the RS, as well as Stealth Grey, Absolute Black and Frozen White. The car revealed in Cologne features the same special Liquid Blue colour scheme first seen on the all-new Ford GT revealed last month at the North American International Auto Show.

Rich heritage of innovation and performance

Since the first Ford RS models took to the road, the RS marque has been an essential element of Ford’s DNA, delivering technical innovation and performance on road and track. Dating back to the early days of the company’s success in “Rallye Sport,” the first RS models established a reputation for advanced technology and driving exhilaration that continues to this day.

“The all-new Focus RS is true to the core RS principles of innovative engineering and high performance. Driving enthusiasts have always aspired to own RS vehicles, and this is a heritage that inspires everyone within Ford,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe.

Through the years, RS models have consistently pioneered innovative performance technologies, from powerful naturally-aspirated and turbocharged powertrains and sophisticated aerodynamic aids to advanced front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive drivelines.

Vehicles that pioneered AWD technology include the exotic 1984 mid-engined RS200 destined for Group B rallying, the 1990 Sierra RS Cosworth 4x4, the spectacular Escort RS Cosworth and the 1994 Escort RS2000 4x4.

The original 215PS Focus RS from 2002 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged power unit and an advanced limited-slip differential. The second generation model sent 305PS through its front wheels with a ground-breaking RevoKnuckle suspension design.

New Generation i20 receives ‘iF Design Award 2015’ in the product category.

• New Generation i20 receives ‘iF Design Award 2015’ in the product category
• Recognises distinctive, sophisticated design of Hyundai’s new B-segment car
• Further validation of Hyundai Motor’s design and quality

Hyundai Motor has once again received international recognition for its vehicle design from the prestigious iF Design Awards jury. The New Generation i20 has won the iF Design Award 2015 in the “Product” discipline, under the “Automobiles / Vehicles / Bikes” category.

The award recognises the refined design of the newest addition to Hyundai Motor’s car line-up. 

The distinctive appearance of the All - New Generation i20 hatchback was influenced by the latest interpretation of the company's Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy, characterised by the car's clean and elegant lines and the prominent hexagonal grille that marks it out as a Hyundai.

The team from Hyundai Motor’s Design Centre Europe in Rüsselsheim, Germany paid particular attention to achieving balanced proportions. The front-end design and long hood create a powerful stance, and the gloss-black C-pillar delivers a unique floating-roof motif. Inside, the driver-oriented cockpit features extensive use of soft-touch materials, as well as subtle piano black inserts and chrome detailing, to create a modern and sophisticated interior package.

Peter Schreyer, President and Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group, said: "It's an honour for Hyundai to be once again internationally recognised in the iF Design Awards, with New Generation i20 following the success of All-New Genesis last year. Design plays a core role in shaping our brand and driving consumer purchases of Hyundai cars, so we're delighted to receive such a prestigious accolade from a respected authority on design."

For more than 60 years, the iF Design Awards have been recognised across the world as a symbol of design excellence. Organised by iF International Forum Design GmbH, the awards recognise outstanding design across various disciplines and categories. The jury awarded the sought-after prize to Hyundai’s New Generation i20 following a rigorous judging process, involving almost 5,000 entries from 53 countries.

The iF Design Award night will take place on 27 February 2015.

Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, the New Generation i20 is on sale now throughout the region.

Top 30 sales in 2014 for Germany, and like France, the home brands dominate.

2014 (Full Year) Germany: Best-Selling Car Models

In 2014, Germany’s top-selling car model was again the Volkswagen Golf followed by the VW Passat. The Polo took third place from the BMW 3 Series. Four of the top-ten most popular cars in Germany in 2014 were Volkswagens with a further two from the larger Volkswagen Group. The Skoda Octavia entered the top-ten list of the favorite cars of the Germans at the expense of the Opel Astra.

Best-Selling Car Models in Germany in 2014 (Full Year)

The top 30 most popular car models in Germany in 2014 according to new passenger vehicle registration statistics released by the KBA were:

2013 Rank	2014 Rank	Brand and Model	Sales 2014	% Change 14 / 13	Sales 2013
1	1	VW GOLF	255,044	x	244,249
2	2	VW PASSAT	72,153	0.1	72,048
4	3	VW POLO	68,103	-0.4	68,343
5	4	AUDI A3, S3, RS3	65,199	6.9	60,978
6	5	VW TIGUAN	61,947	7.1	57,838
8	6	MERCEDES C-CLASS	60,350	15.1	52,433
3	7	BMW 3 SERIES	55,681	-19.9	69,486
10	8	OPEL CORSA	55,151	11.2	49,595
11	9	SKODA OCTAVIA	52,620	6.3	49,495
7	10	BMW 1 SERIES	50,250	-5.6	53,214
15	11	FORD FOCUS	49,494	8.8	45,485
13	12	AUDI A4, S4, RS4	48,278	-0.1	48,310
14	13	VW TOURAN	47,801	3.5	46,184
9	14	OPEL ASTRA	46,193	-8.2	50,322
17	15	FORD FIESTA	45,228	0.2	45,151
19	16	VW UP	40,902	-4.6	42,867
25	17	SEAT LEON	40,251	x	31,037
21	18	AUDI A6, S6, RS6,	39,596	x	40,813
18	19	BMW 5 SERIES	38,733	-12.9	44,468
22	20	SKODA FABIA	38,470	-2.7	39,549
20	21	MERCEDES E-CLASS	37,117	-9.8	41,159
12	22	MERCEDES A-CLASS	36,657	-25.2	49,034
16	23	MERCEDES B-CLASS	36,639	-19.4	45,455
23	24	MINI	33,183	-3.2	34,263
24	25	VW TRANSPORTER	30,796	x	32,684
26	26	VW CADDY	30,154	-2.0	30,777
29	27	FIAT 500	29,920	3.1	29,024
44	28	OPEL MOKKA	27,693	41.2	19,610
30	29	AUDI A1, S1	27,147	-0.4	27,267
48	30	FORD KUGA	25,751	38.3	18,616

Note: x indicates where a change in methodology for the 2014 figures makes a direct comparison impossible, e.g. up to 2013 the VW Golf and Jetta were counted together.

Top Ten Best-Selling Car Models in Germany in 2014

Germany’s favorite car model in 2014 remained the Volkswagen Golf, as it has been every year since 1981. In 1980, the Mercedes E Class (W123) was the last car to have beaten the Golf to the top in Germany over a calendar year. Golf sales increased in Germany in 2014 but as the Golf and Jetta numbers were counted together up to 2013, the exact increase cannot be calculated. However, Jetta sales in Germany in 2014 were only 940 cars and were probably fairly similar in 2013.

In second place, selling less than a third as many cars as the Golf, was the VW Passat. The Passat has been the second best-selling car in Germany since 2011.

Despite lower sales, the Volkswagen Polo gained third place from the BMW 3 Series that slipped to seventh place this year. The Audi A3 and VW Tiguan similarly improved a place each at the expense of the BMW 3 Series.

The Mercedes C Class benefited from a new model early in the year and was the most improved (+15%) of the top ten most-popular car models in Germany in 2014. The Mercedes C Class improved from eighth a year ago.

The BMW 3 Series’ slip from third to seventh (and nearly a fifth fewer sales) is less serious for BMW than the numbers indicate. Cars now labeled 4 Series were included in 2013 statistics – if these were added the BMW would have been in second place with around 40 cars more sold than the Passat. (Similar effects influenced statistics for other models and manufacturers.)

The Opel Corsa improved from tenth to eighth with the aging car selling remarkably well even before the new model was launched towards the end of the year.

The Skoda Octavia entered the list of the top-ten best-selling car models in Germany for the first time in 2014 at ninth place, up from 11th in 2013 and 17th in 2012. The Octavia is considered Germany’s favorite imported car model, although Skoda is owned by Volkswagen.

The BMW 1 Series slipped from seventh place to tenth, also partly due to the creation of the 2 Series.

The Opel Astra slipped out of the top-10 list – down to 14th from 9th. The Astra is due for a complete model change towards the end of 2015.

Top 30 Best-Selling Car Models in Germany in 2014 (Full Year)

A few further salient features from the top-selling car models in Germany in 2014:

• The only two new entrants on the list of Germany’s 30 favorite car models were the Opel Mokka (up to 28th from 44th) and the Ford Kuga (up to 30th from 48th). These two models also saw the highest percentage increases in sales.
• The two car models dropping off the list were the Hyundai i30 (from 27th) with weaker sales and the Seat Ibiza (from 28th to 31 st) largely due to Cordoba sales counted separately in 2014.
• The Ford Focus has been creeping up the list in recent years and narrowly missed out on a top-ten position.
• The Seat Leon improved 8 rank places, despite loosing Toledo sales from the total.
• The Mercedes A and B Class dropped out of the top 20 with much weaker sales.
• The only foreign car amongst the top-30 most popular car models in Germany in 2014 and from a brand not belonging to VW or BMW was the Fiat 500 (27 th).