VW will gauge response to the Tarok concept in deciding whether to build a version for the U.S. Brand boss Scott Keogh says he likes the Tarok because the second-row seats fold, along with the rear wall of the cab, to extend storage space in the bed.

The automaker says its goal for the U.S. is to sell 10% of CX-5s with the 2.2L diesel, which would mean about 15,000 units. The engine produces 290 lb.-ft. of torque and is rated at 30 mpg on the highway with AWD.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles executive Mary Ann Capo says minivans continue to attract families with children: “Typically there’s a trigger point and yes, it’s when families have that second, or third, child.”

Southern California-based distributor hopes to begin sales of Qiantu K50 sports car in the U.S. next year.

Hyundai is aiming to capture with Venue a portion of the 40-million used-vehicle buyers in the U.S. last year who wanted to buy new.

Auto-industry conference panelists discuss cutting the time it takes to buy a car, the prospects of selling and servicing EVs and ways to abate an auto-technician shortage.

The Japanese brand introduced the midsize CUV 25 years ago. Since then it has caught on with outdoors enthusiasts.

The latest GLS won’t see U.S. deliveries until the year’s fourth quarter, but the German automaker is already extolling its advances, including a new 482-hp gasoline-electric mild-hybrid drivetrain in an initial range-topping GLS 580 4Matic model.

“We’re still (forecasting) at 16.8 million” U.S. light-vehicle sales in 2019, Bob Carter says. “But I’m not going to be too surprised if it eases into 17.0 (million) or more this year.”

“In the previous XE, we had too many exposed hard plastics in the car. And we got heavily criticized for it.” Jag Design Director Ian Callum says.