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After arriving at dealerships in March, the redesigned 2014 Subaru Forester is quickly making an impact in the showroom, with sales of the compact SUV rising by 65 percent in April compared to the same month last year. The Forester was Subaru’s best-seller last month, moving 9,366 models to lead the automaker to its best-ever April sales of 32,943 units overall.

For the 2014 model year, the Subaru Forester boasts a new exterior design, taking on a firmer stance with its wider track and a wheelbase that is nearly an inch longer. All 2.0XT models have received an even bolder look, donning a sport design front bumper, a one-piece mesh grille and chrome-trimmed fog-light bezels. Under the hood, the new Forester features boosts in performance and fuel efficiency with a newly available 2.0-liter Boxer engine that outputs 250 horsepower or a standard 2.5-liter Boxer unit that now returns 32 mpg on the highway when paired with a new Lineartronic continuously variable transmission.

“Once again, Subaru has managed to improve upon all the areas that make the Forester such a popular choice in the compact SUV segment, carefully mixing performance, fuel economy and go-anywhere capability,” said Chris Dunn, general sales manager of Mastria Subaru, a Subaru dealer in Massachusetts. “As always, buyers get the confidence of standard all-wheel drive, but they now receive even more power, as well as fuel efficiency that rivals many of the Forester’s less-capable, front-wheel-drive competitors.”

The 2014 Subaru Forester isn’t the only new compact crossover making waves at dealerships, as the all-new Subaru XV Crosstrek had another solid month in April after going on sale last fall. Moving 4,433 units last month, the XV Crosstrek sold nearly as many vehicles as the popular Impreza on which it is based. The versatile crossover is smaller in height and length than the Forester, yet it offers an identical 8.7 inches of ground clearance for navigating rocky trails and snowy roads.

The inspiration for the XV Crosstrek, the Subaru Impreza, will soon be manufactured stateside in both sedan and hatchback variants to better keep up with consumer demand. Subaru recently announced that it will be moving production of the Impreza from Japan to its Lafayette, Ind., plant in 2016 as part of a $400 million investment to increase output at the facility.

“With vehicles like the Forester, XV Crosstrek and Impreza, Subaru has managed to create a range of fuel-efficient compact options that don’t step on each other’s toes when it comes to sales,” added Dunn. “Each model offers slightly different levels of capability, cargo space and efficiency, but none of them is lacking in any of those areas.”

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Truck owners are a demanding bunch with specific needs, and two of their top concerns are torque and fuel economy. Well, with the new 2014 GMC Sierra due to arrive at our GMC dealership near Boston this summer, they can get both. Sporting a new 4.3-liter V6 engine with 305 pound-feet of torque, the redesigned GMC Sierra offers class-leading twist that provides impressive towing capacity. If there has ever been a V6 that could pull truck buyers away from their much-loved V8 engines, this is it.

So how did GMC engineers get so much torque from a V6 engine? Technology, of course. The all-new EcoTec3 V6 engine features direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing to make the most power when you need it and the greatest fuel efficiency when you’re just tooling around town. The result is a 7,200-pound towing capacity, which is 500 pounds more than the comparable offering from Ford and 700 pounds more than the competition from Ram.

If you still want eight cylinders, there will be two optional engines available as well, displacing 5.3 liters and 6.2 liters depending on how much power you desire. You can, of course, expect top-notch fuel economy from all three engines, which we’re sure will appeal to Greater Boston GMC shoppers. Look for the new GMC Sierra to arrive at our showroom in the near future!

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Nissan has always offered a lot of value for money, and their new lineup doubles down on bang for the buck. Their efforts are earning recognition too, with Cars.com recently choosing the 2013 Nissan Sentra as the Most Affordable Compact Sedan available. The decision was made based on initial purchase price of models with six key features, as well as fuel costs over the course of five years.

With its ability to return up to 39 mpg on the highway and an affordable base price, there’s little wonder why the Sentra earned accolades for value, but this model is about more than the bottom line. Sleek exterior styling and top-notch interior amenities show that you don’t have to pay a lot to get a lot in a new car.

Massachusetts Nissan Sentra drivers love their cars because they offer more for the money, so if you’re looking for a stylish new ride that won’t break the bank, visit our dealership and take one for a test-drive.

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It is during the monotony of the daily commute that drivers start to really notice the conveniences or annoyances of their car’s interior, so WardsAuto editors recently drove several new models to the office to uncover the cabins that stand above the rest. After all was said and done, the redesigned 2013 Nissan Pathfinder earned a spot on the annual Ward’s 10 Best Interiors list, with editors citing the crossover SUV’s combination of comfort and functionality for driver and passengers alike.

To determine its 10 Best Interiors list, WardsAuto ranked vehicles with new or significantly upgraded interiors in several categories, including materials, fit-and-finish, ergonomics, overall design, comfort, value and safety. Technology was also considered, with each model’s dash interface judged in terms of user-friendliness and connectivity with mobile devices. After evaluating the Pathfinder, editors described the crossover as “warm, inviting, spacious and ready for anything.”

“The new Pathfinder not only has the room to fit seven passengers in comfort, but the interior is designed to make your actions in the vehicle easier, whether it’s the simple access to the third row, or an available DVD entertainment system that will keep the kids occupied,” said Jason Ferreira, general sales manager of Mastria Nissan, a Massachusetts Nissan dealership in Raynham. “Not to mention, when it comes time to haul equipment or furniture for home improvement, the Pathfinder opens up to nearly 80 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, so you won’t have to borrow a friend’s pickup truck.”

The transformative design of the new Pathfinder starts with Nissan’s decision to switch from a truck-based body-on-frame platform to a modern unibody platform. That move is reflected on the inside, which is loaded with features usually found in large sedans. Plush Berber carpet floor mats and a Dual Panorama Moonroof create a more serene cabin, while Nissan’s EZ Flex Seating System allows the second row to slide both backward and forward by up to five and a half inches, making it easy for passengers to get to the third row.

A hybrid model will join the new Pathfinder lineup late this summer for the 2014 model year. With a manufacturer-estimated 26-mpg rating in combined driving, the 2014 Pathfinder Hybrid will be 24 percent more efficient than the standard model and will offer a longer highway range of 526 miles. Despite that increased efficiency, the hybrid model will feature similar performance and the same space and standard features compared to its gas-only sibling.

“The Pathfinder’s new lightweight unibody frame has already helped it significantly improve fuel economy over its predecessor, and the hybrid model will take things even further,” added Ferreira. “Regardless of the model that buyers choose, they won’t be lacking in any of the all-conditions capability that the Pathfinder has earned a reputation for over the years.”

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We love the new 2014 Mazda6 for its expressive exterior styling, but we would be remiss to not mention the equally attractive interior. We’re not the only ones impressed, either, as WardsAuto recently added the new midsize sedan to its 10 Best Interiors list. Competing against 46 other all-new or significantly revised vehicles, the Mazda6′s quality shined through. Keep in mind there was no price cap, which means Mazda was competing against the likes of Range Rover, Lexus and Cadillac.

Here’s what WardsAuto has to say about the new Mazda6′s interior:

“…there was little argument that the new third-generation Mazda6 midsize sedan belongs on this year’s list because of its excellent infotainment system, creative touches, flowing lines, attention to detail and a starting price below $21,000.

The Mazda6′s overwhelming calling card is its color management. Black dominates, but seats and part of the door trim are almond and a horizontal plastic strip in deep burgundy sets off the instrument panel. Pulling it all together, while simultaneously highlighting these disparate shades, is contrast stitching of the same colors: almond, burgundy and black.”

We couldn’t have said it better! If you want to see why the Mazda6 is on the lips of critics and industry pundits everywhere, stop by our Massachusetts Mazda6 dealership today. Until then, check out the photo gallery of the new Mazda6 below.

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Every time a new model is released, we are excited to check out its specs and what’s new in the technology department. Research and development in the car industry has been delivering new features at a breakneck pace in recent years, and that trend shows no sign of abating. The new 2014 Buick Regal is one of the most impressive examples of this growth.

Revealed at the 2013 New York Auto Show, the revised Buick Regal includes a plethora of technological features designed to improve safety in all driving conditions. It caters to the serious driver and the car enthusiast in equal measure. Buick is using regenerative braking energy to power eAssist, a light hybrid system that supplements acceleration. In addition, it can shut off the engine while the vehicle is idling, contributing to improve fuel efficiency.

As a Buick Dealer in Massachusetts, we know how rain, ice and snow can affect your car’s performance. That’s why we’re particularly excited about the Regal’s new available all-wheel-drive system. Its limited-slip differential improves traction in the most challenging conditions. This is a great enhancement for drivers in our state, taking some of the pressure out of driving in bad weather.

Camera-based safety features are becoming more and more popular. The Buick Regal uses both camera and radar technology for complete protection: Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Mitigation Braking are all a result of this combination.

Even the cruise control system boasts more intelligent performance. Adaptive Cruise Control can sense traffic ahead, reducing speed accordingly and accelerating again when necessary; yet another bonus that will allow you to focus on driving and enjoying the experience.

The 2014 Buick Regal will arrive at our Buick dealership in Raynham this fall. Come to visit us and take advantage of our specials. You could be one of the first people to drive it!

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Mazda currently has two models on the market that feature its full suite of new efficiency-focused SKYACTIV technologies, and now it appears that its best-selling vehicle, the Mazda3 compact car, is slated to receive the same treatment. Already offered with a SKYACTIV-G engine and the choice of an automatic or manual six-speed SKYACTIV transmission, the Mazda3 will reportedly complete the fuel-saving set with a lightweight SKYACTIV body and chassis when the next-generation model goes on sale this fall.

According to Automotive News, the autumn launch of the new Mazda3 will come as the Japanese automaker looks to eclipse 300,000 units in overall U.S. sales this year for the first time since the mid-1990s. Even with the next generation on the way, the current Mazda3 has been attracting new customers, moving a record 123,361 units in 2012, a 20 percent jump compared to the year prior.

“The existing 2013 Mazda3 already returns up to 40 mpg on the highway with its SKYACTIV drivetrain, but a new body, chassis and design language would likely mean even greater fuel efficiency and more record sales,” said Barry Chew, sales manager of Mastria Mazda, a Mazda dealer in Massachusetts. “We’ve already seen the impact of the full SKYACTIV suite in the new CX-5 crossover and the recently launched 2014 Mazda6, and we can’t wait to see how it comes together for Mazda’s most popular model.”

As Mazda’s second vehicle to fully embrace SKYACTIV technologies, the 2014 Mazda6 has quickly accumulated accolades since its arrival at dealerships earlier this year. The midsize sedan recently received a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the organization’s highest crash-protection designation. Comprised of 58 percent high-tensile steel, a new SKYACTIV-Body helped the Mazda6 earn the top score of “good” in the IIHS’ frontal moderate overlap, side, roof and head-restraint crash tests, as well as an “acceptable” on the new small overlap crash test to take home the honor.

While the underpinnings of the new Mazda6 are proving safe, the model’s unique exterior styling made it a finalist in the 2013 World Car Design of the Year competition. Donning the automaker’s new KODO, or Soul of Motion, design theme, the 2014 Mazda6 sports a bold hexagonal grille flanked by angled headlights that sweep back over the flared fenders.

The World Car Design of the Year award is determined by 66 international automotive journalists, and the winner will be announced later this week at the New York International Auto Show. Joined by the Aston Martin Vanquish and the Jaguar F-Type as a finalist, the Mazda6 will be keeping luxurious company.

“The redesigned Mazda6 has the boldest style in the midsize segment, and if you need proof of that, look at how it is competing way upmarket with the likes of Aston Martin and Jaguar in New York,” added Chew. “We expect that the new Mazda3 will receive similarly aggressive KODO design cues, including the brand’s new family grille, but we’ll just have to wait and see what the final product looks like.”

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We’re big fans of the Subaru WRX because it offers awesome performance and rally-bred handling at an affordable price point. Those same features have made it a hit with Massachusetts Subaru owners, who love the fact that they can drive their sports cars in any weather. Well, our love for all things WRX has grown even warmer after seeing the new Subaru WRX Concept car at the New York International Auto Show.

Subaru really wants to separate the WRX’s styling from that of the Impreza, and there’s no question that they’re going in a more aggressive direction. With its flared fenders, aggressive grille and signature hood scoop that feeds air to the turbocharged engine’s intercooler, the new WRX Concept could be the best-looking version yet.

While Subaru has been tight-lipped about production of the next generation WRX, we’re pretty confident that some of the concept vehicle’s styling cues will carry over to the real deal. We can’t wait for the new Subaru WRX to reach our dealership!

If you haven’t seen the concept model, check out the photo gallery below.

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With room for up to eight passengers, the refreshed 2013 Buick Enclave can leave drivers responsible for a lot of precious cargo, but they can all breathe easy following the latest round of crash tests from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The government agency recently gave the Enclave its top five-star Overall Vehicle Score in its New Car Assessment Program. Featuring a new industry-first front-center airbag that deploys between the front seats, the latest Enclave offers greater protection during far-side impacts.

To earn a five-star rating from the NHTSA, a vehicle must score well in a range of tests, including a frontal crash test, a side-barrier crash test and a new side-pole crash test. The Buick Enclave’s top score indicates that the risk of injury in a crash is much lower for its occupants than the industry average, but the vehicle’s airbags and reinforced chassis only make up a portion of its comprehensive safety design. Buick engineers also outfitted the Enclave with active safety equipment to help drivers avoid accidents in the first place, including the available Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert systems.

“Buick vehicles are more than luxurious, they’re also incredibly safe thanks to their advanced chassis designs and innovative technology, including the front-center airbag in the Enclave,” said Gary Carter, general sales manager of Mastria Buick GMC Cadillac, a Massachusetts Buick dealer near Boston. “Our customers want to feel safe out on the road, whether they’re alone or with the whole family and then some, and the Enclave lets them drive with confidence.”

Updated for the 2013 model year, the new Enclave received more than just the latest safety technology, with stylists revamping the exterior to create a cohesive, sophisticated look that is punctuated by a prominent chrome grille and swept-back headlights. Buick also added more standard equipment to the already tech-laden crossover, including Rear Parking Assist, a Rear Vision Camera, a power liftgate and the IntelliLink connectivity system, which displays important information on a seven-inch color display in the dash.

The changes to the 2013 Enclave have struck a chord with consumers, who have turned to the model in record numbers. Year-over-year sales of the crossover SUV have been on the rise for five straight months, punctuated by the vehicle’s best-ever February. Totaling 5,241 units, Enclave sales were up 26 percent last month compared to February 2012, and they have now increased by 39 percent year-to-date. The Enclave’s performance helped the overall Buick lineup earn its best February retail sales since 2004, with a 13 percent increase year-over-year.

“Buick has done an amazing job refreshing its lineup with bold style, new technology and attractive pricing that are proving popular both with fans of the brand and with those who haven’t considered a Buick before,” added Carter. “The conquest sales are especially important in the increasingly competitive car market, and they prove that Buick is hitting all the right marks.”

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Subaru’s Share the Love campaign has become a staple of the holidays, and this past season, the automaker again committed to donating $250 to charity for every new model it sold or leased from Nov. 21 to Jan. 2. The new tradition hasn’t lost steam during the five years since its inception, as Subaru raised just over $5 million before the deadline this year, with the overall tally now totaling $25 million.

Chosen in part by Subaru’s Facebook fans before the campaign, the charity recipients for this year’s Share the Love event include the Alzheimer’s Association, the ASPCA, Make-A-Wish, Meals On Wheels Association of America and the USO. Previous Share the Love partners run the gamut from the Boys & Girls Club and Habitat for Humanity to the Special Olympics and the National Wildlife Federation.

“Even during tough economic times, Subaru owners continue to step up each year to ensure the Share the Love event is successful,” said Chris Dunn, general sales manager of Mastria Subaru, a Subaru dealer in Massachusetts. “The best part about Share the Love is that charities get the funds they desperately need, and drivers get fantastic vehicles that offer great bang for the buck.”

The 2013 Subaru Outback was recently honored for that combination of quality and value in the U.S. News & World Report 2013 Best Cars for the Money Awards. Vehicles were awarded in 21 segments, with the Outback topping the Wagons category. To determine its winners, U.S. News factors in the opinions of the automotive press regarding performance, interior features and comfort, as well as industry data from TrueCar.com, J.D. Power and Associates, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Revamped for the 2013 model year, the Outback features a more fuel-efficient 2.5-liter Boxer engine and new technology that improves safety and connectivity. Producing 173 horsepower in standard form, the latest Outback is capable of returning up to 30 mpg on the highway and comes with Subaru’s vaunted all-wheel-drive system. Inside, drivers benefit from the automaker’s new EyeSight driver-assist system, which identifies vehicles traveling ahead as well as traffic lanes and obstacles. The system alerts the driver to possible collisions, and in some cases, it can bring the vehicle to a stop to avoid a crash.

“With its outstanding cargo room, versatility and all-weather capability, the Subaru Outback offers a unique mix of features at an affordable price point,” added Dunn. “The new model takes that winning recipe and builds on it, adding great fuel economy and the latest safety equipment.”