Honda P-Nut Lands in LA

Last week the press offered a number of interesting references to Honda's "P-NUT" prototype vehicle that was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show:

• P-NUT is not yet out of its shell
• Honda busts a (P-)Nut
• Looks like it's double-parked at a UFO convention

According to BNET, the Honda P-NUT or the "The Personal-Neo Urban Transport":

• Seats three with the driver in the middle and the passengers behind.
• The rear seats fold up as in the production Fit.
• The P-NUT’s windshield is one piece with its roof, and it doubles as a heads-up screen for the navigation system.

According to GizMag.com, the P-Nut

• has a windshield that serves as a head-up display (HUD) for the navigation system and reversing camera. It not only offers total above the head visibility, but also extends almost to the floor of the vehicle, broken only by an oversized Honda logo.
• Features a modular rear engine bay designed to accommodate a wide variety of potential powertrain technologies including a conventional small in

If and when the Honda P-Nut becomes available, Bernardi Honda will offer the Honda P-Nut in all model combinations and BernardiParts.com will offer a full line of Honda P-Nut parts and accessories for it.

Tips & Techniques: Tires - Limited Life!

We all know that food products such as meat, milk, bread and other items found in your local supermarket have a limited useful life. These products typically have a 'Sell By" date on their packaging so we can ensure the product's remaining useful shelf life is adequate to meet your requirements.

You may not be aware that the tires that you purchase for your vehicles also have a limited useful life. According to sources such as SaferCar.gov, "some vehicle manufacturers recommend that tires be replaced every six years regardless of use. In addition, a number of tire manufacturers cite 10 years as the maximum service life for tires. "

According to TireLitigation.com, "Many U.S. and foreign tire companies are now warning consumers in Europe and Asia to discard even new appearing tires that are five or six years from the date of manufacture. This is because the rubber and other components in tires break down over time, making older tires potentially dangerous even if they look brand new. Although manufacturers do not give similar warnings in the United States, this is likely to change as lawmakers and watchdog groups including trial lawyers put additional pressure on tire companies to follow the same safety guidelines that are applied overseas."

So how do you determine the age of your vehicles' tires? When scheduling your next service appointment at Bernardi Honda, ask to have the age of your tires checked at no cost. Don't forget to have your spare tire checked. Even if never used, it may be dangerous to use! Bring a copy of this page with you and receive a 10% discount on purchased tires (Code I-T).

If you want to check your tires, you need only look at the "Department of Transportation (DOT) code" that the federal government requires to be on all tires that are sold in the U.S. The DOT code is found on the axle side of your tires, as is illustrated below.

The DOT code on tires manufactured latter than 1999 has the format DOTPPxxxxxWWYY - such as DOTMBL9ABC0301 as in the illustration.

• PP represents the plant where the tire was manufactured - in the case of the example it is "MB" which, according to Tire Litigation's table represents The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., Martha Ave., Plant No. 2 Akron, OH 44316
• WW represents the week in which the tire was manufactured. In this case, week number "03".
• YY represents the year in which the tire was manufactured. In this case, year "01" or week 3 of 2001.
  
  Tires manufactured before 2000 have a similar coding system but the year is a single digit and there is a small triangle following the DOT code.
  
  
  
  
  
  Tire image: http://www.1010tires.com

Bernardi Honda needs your car!

The impact of the "Cash For Clunkers" program is still being felt. Our inventory of good pre-owned vehicles is lower than it ought to be. To remedy this, Bernardi Honda has launched its unique "Buyback" and "Lease Bounty" programs. These programs offer innovative incentives to you so that you consider Bernardi Honda when faced with the need to release one of your vehicles.

Buyback Program
Bernardi Honda will pay you 110% of fair market value for your pre-owned car, minivan, or SUV if it has less than 60,000 miles and has a clean CarFax. No purchase is necessary to become eligible for this generous program. If our pre-owned sales manager can use your vehicle, we will purchase it! Don't wait - visit today before this generous program expires.

Lease Bounty Program
Regardless of where you leased your Honda, if you return it to Bernardi Honda at the end of its lease we will pay you $250! No purchase is necessary. The only conditions are that it must have less than 50,000 miles and have a clean CarFax!

For more information on these unique programs, please contact Tim McGilvray or Seth Marshall at 508 651-3033 - or stop by our showroom at 960 Worcester Road in Natick - just east of the Natick Collection on route 9.

2010 Accord Crosstour - arriving Nov 20

The all-new 2010 Accord Crosstour is almost here. You can find more information about the features and pricing of Honda's new crossover vehicle on the recently updated BernardiHonda.com web site.

Combining a sleek exterior with a versatile interior, the Crosstour offers a fresh take on utility. Highlights include an easy fold-down 60/40 rear seatback and a hidden, removable utility box. Plus, the Crosstour features the latest in Honda technology, like available Bluetooth® connectivity and an available navigation system that includes a rearview camera with guideline display.

BernardiHonda.com will offer the all new Honda Accord Crosstour for sale on November 20. BernardiParts.com will also offer a complete line of parts and accessories for the Honda Crosstour at that time. BernardiServiceContracts.com will offer complete information on service contracts for the new Honda crossover vehicle as well.

Modern Styling
A streamlined tailgate and sleek lines tell you that this is a whole new kind of Accord.
* Bold, Sporty Design
* Sleek, aerodynamic shape
* Attention-grabbing presence
* 18-Inch alloy wheels (EX-L)

Big Where It Counts.
Born from the Accord, the Accord Crosstour is wider, longer and taller. From big 18-inch alloy wheels (EX-L) to the bold front grille, it makes a statement. Distinctive Textured rocker panels and exclusive badging set the Crosstour apart.

Passenger Comfort
The Accord Crosstour offers the driver an elevated seating position for a commanding view of the road ahead. And comfortable seating ensures that up to five passengers can enjoy the ride.

Climate Control
A sophisticated dual-zone climate control system allows both the driver and the front passenger to choose their own temperature. Or, if preferred, a single temperature can be selected for the entire cabin.

Good on Gadgetry
Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™
The available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition provides a huge point-of-interest database, including restaurant ratings and reviews from Zagat Survey®. Shift into reverse, and the rearview camera with guidelines can help you maneuver into position.

Hands-Free Calling (EX-L)
With Bluetooth®HandsFreeLink®, you can make or receive calls with your compatible cell phone while keeping your hands on the wheel.

Change It Up
Easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback quickly accommodates your need for more seating or cargo space. Simply use the levers in the cargo area to create the configuration that works best.
* Big on Utility
* 51.3 cu ft of cargo space
* Easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback
* Hidden, removable utility box

Performance to Match Its Size
Available Real Time™ 4-Wheel Drive
V-6 ExhilarationA 271-hp 3.5-liter V-6 utilizes i-VTEC® for abundant power and efficiency at all engine speeds, while the latest generation of Honda's Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) activates the engine’s cylinders as needed, providing both brisk acceleration and fuel savings.

A Good Grip
You will welcome the added confidence of available 4WD when taking your Crosstour through snowy, wet or other tricky terrain.

Enhanced Handling
The Accord Crosstour’s innovative shifting feature knows when you’re taking a curve, and will hold your gear so you can accelerate through the turn without an unwanted upshift or downshift.

Deduct Taxes on New Car Purchases

Deduct Taxes on New Car Purchases Made in 2009

Thinking about a new car? 2009 is the year to buy. You may be entitled to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase on your 2009 tax return.

The special deduction is available regardless of whether you itemize deductions. Under current law, purchasers can claim this special deduction only on their 2009 tax returns -- not on 2008 or earlier tax returns, and not on returns after the 2009 return... So what are you waiting for?

The deduction is

• Limited to state and local sales and excise taxes paid on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of a qualified new car, truck, minivan, and SUV


• Phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between
  
• $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers


• $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers.

Need more informaton? Contact our sales team at 800-254-0013 and read the IRS bulletin below.

---

IR-2009-60, June 10, 2009

Text Source: IRS.GOV
Audio Source: ENG SPA

WASHINGTON —The Internal Revenue Service and Treasury Department today announced that a tax break for the purchase of new motor vehicles is available in states that do not have a state sales tax. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, taxpayers who buy a new motor vehicle this year are entitled to deduct state or local sales or excise taxes paid on the purchase.

The IRS and Treasury have determined that purchases made in states without a sales tax — such as Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Montana, New Hampshire and Oregon — can also qualify for the deduction.

The IRS said today that taxpayers who purchase a new motor vehicle in states that do not have state sales taxes are entitled to deduct other fees or taxes imposed by the state or local government. The fees or taxes that qualify must be assessed on the purchase of the vehicle and must be based on the vehicle’s sales price or as a per unit fee. According to the IRS, Congress intended for these fees or taxes to qualify for this special tax deduction.

“This special tax break is available for people purchasing a new car this year, and that can include people in states without a sales tax,” said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. “This means that more people can take advantage of this deduction when they file their tax returns next year.”

To qualify for this deduction, the vehicle must be purchased after Feb. 16, 2009, and before Jan. 1, 2010. Taxpayers can claim this special deduction only on their 2009 tax returns to be filed next year.

The deduction is limited to the fees or taxes paid on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of a qualified new car, light truck, motor home or motorcycle.

The amount of the deduction is phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers and between $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers.

The special deduction is available regardless of whether taxpayers itemize deductions on their returns. Taxpayers who do not itemize will add this additional amount to the standard deduction on their 2009 tax return. The IRS reminded taxpayers the deduction may not be taken on 2008 returns.

Bernardi Warranty Closing on Oct 29th

Honda has told all of its Honda and Acura dealers that they must cease selling Honda Care and Acura Care through their web sites by November 2, 2009.

At the close of business on Thursday October 29th, Bernardi Honda will, therefore, cease selling Honda Care and Acura Care Service Contracts through its www.BernardiWarranty.com web site. Bernardi will continue to sell Honda Care and Acura Care over the telephone and in its dealerships.

To receive information about Honda Care and Acura Care Service Contracts, please call Juliana, our Service Contract expert, at 800-455-5905.

Honda Care and Acura Care Service Contracts are unique in that they are honored nationwide by ALL certified American Honda dealers and can be transferred once.

Honda CR-Z - the Next Hybrid from Honda

Honda made news at the at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show by providing a glimpse of its new CR-Z - a futuristic looking Hybrid coupe that will be sold in the second half of 2010. According to Honda, the new CR-Z will be displayed in production form at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in January 2010. The 2-seat CR-Z offers driving enjoyment and the latest in Honda hybrid technology. As striking as the car's sleek lines are, it's the environmental performance of Honda's latest hybrid technology that sets it apart. It is also reported the 2-seater will offer new levels of driver engagement and an advanced interior.

Once the new Honda CR-Z Hybrid Coupe is available,

• BernardiHonda.com will offer a full line of the Honda CR-Z Hybrid coupe trim levels
• BernardiParts.com will offer all available Honda OEM parts and accessories for the Honda CR-Z Hybrid Coupe
• BernardiServiceContracts.com will offer informaton about authentic Honda service contracts for the Honda CR-Z which are honored by American Honda dealers nation wide

Keep watching Bernardi's blog for more information about the all new 2010 CR-Z Hybrid Coupe!

Women’s Car Buying Seminar - Nov 9th

An informational program on vehicle purchase and ownership will be hosted by women for women at the Bernardi Honda dealership in Natick, Massachusetts on Monday evening, November 9th from 6:00 to 7:30 P.M. It will be moderated by Kristin Cullinane, an automotive professional whose background includes vehicle maintenance and customer service expertise. Kristin will be joined by a number of other women who will share their knowledge of the selection, negotiation, financing and maintenance of a vehicle.

• Paula Fleming, Vice President of Communications and Marketing, of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), will discuss consumer rights and what everyone needs to know when buying or leasing a car. She will coach attendees on techniques for identifying auto dealerships that have excellent customer service reputations – as well as those that lack such a reputation.
  
• Because sorting through the numerous options for financing or leasing a vehicle can be challenging, auto finance expert Karen Fisher will discuss credit scores and their impact on finance rates, how to evaluate the lease vs. buy option, and other important considerations in negotiating your vehicle purchase or lease.
  
• Christine Kristoff-Cote, an Automotive Service professional with over 20 years of experience, will give advice on routine and special maintenance programs offered by your dealership to keep your vehicle in top operating condition.
  

Attendees will be provided with a complimentary light dinner buffet along with a discount coupon for the purchase of a new or used car or truck at any of the Bernardi Auto Group dealerships. There will also be a drawing for valuable gifts.

Bernardi will make a donation to the American Cancer Society for the benefit of breast cancer research on behalf of attendee.

To make a reservation for this free seminar, please contact:
Sallie Longeri
774 290-1411
Sallie.Longeri@BernardiAutoGroup.com.

Bernardi Honda ● 960 Worcester Street (Route 9 East) ● Natick, MA 01760

Bernardi Honda $1,000 Trade Coupon

As the second largst Honda Dealer in the area, Bernardi Honda has a huge inventory of new 2009 and 2010 Honda vehicles. Bernardi must immediately sell its remaining 2009 vehicles to make space for the 2010 vehicles that are arriving daily.

Bernardi's problem is your good fortune. Until October 30, Bernardi Honda is offering a $1,000 Trade Coupon. With the coupon, Bernardi Honda will add $1,000 to the value of your vehicle when it is traded toward a new 2009 Honda car, truck, van, or SUV.

Don't miss this opportunity to purchase a band new Honda at 2009 prices and receive $1,000 added to the value of your trade!

Bernardi Honda Service Coupons

Bernardi Honda has just launched its Road Test Plus service. Unique in this area, the Bernardi Honda program offers a no-charge one-on-one session with one of our six ASE Certified Honda Master Techs where you can have them experience that elusive squeak, rattle, drivability problem that no other service organization has been able to fix. Or, receive tips on the proper use of a complex vehicle system such as Navigation, traction control, or DVD. This service is available M-F 7:30am - 4:00pm. No appointment is necessary! Call 800-790-9906 to learn more about Bernardi's ROAD TEST PLUS Program.

To assist our valued clients as the economy slowly recovers, we are offering an unprecenedanted number of coupons for FREE and DISCOUNTED services. The coupons change frequently so visit http://www.bernardihonda.com/MiscPage_58 to print those that are currently available. At the time of this wriitng, the available coupons inluded:

• FREE Drive-in Services Coupon
• FREE Vehicle Rental Coupon
• FREE Road Test Plus Coupon
• FREE Battery Test Coupon
• FREE Brake Inspection Coupon
• FREE Engine Light Coupon
• FREE Tire Inspection Coupon
• Oil Change Coupon - save $10
• Minor Service Coupon - save $15
• Intermediate Service Coupon - save $20
• Major Service Coupon - save $30
• Timing Belt Coupon - Save $99
• 4 Wheel Alignment Coupon - Save $20
• Repairs Coupon - Save $150
• Winter Tires Coupon - Save 10%

Bernardi Honda is conveniently located on at 960 Worcester Road on Route 9 West in Natick, just down the road from the Natick Collection. You can schedule a service appointment or discuss a problem with one of the service advisors by calling 800-790-9906.

Accord Wins Edmunds' Inside Line 2009 Readers' Most Wanted Vehicle Award

Thousands voted. The ballots were counted. And in the end, the Honda Accord was honored with an Edmunds' Inside Line 2009 Readers' Most Wanted Vehicle Award. The Accord was singled out as the most wanted vehicle in the "Family Under $30,000" category. And although the Accord is a stylish, luxurious and technologically advanced marvel, one reader had a purely practical reason for casting his vote: "Best value for the money..." Other comments included:

• Still strikes the best balance between drivability, utility and livability. It even has some style to it.


• Best value for the money and it comes with bulletproof reliability.


• Benchmark.


• It'll last forever.


• The Accord with the four-banger has the best value: decent performance, big enough for a full family, amazing resale and reliability, and you can drive it forever.


• Plenty of room, reasonable performance, comfort, excellent reliability and reasonable mileage.


• Because it's a standard of quality and reliability and that's what a family car should be.


• As a previous Accord owner I can say that Honda makes just about the best family sedan out there.


• Best family sedan on the planet.


• Huge car, huge dependability, good price, reasonable cost of ownership.

Bernardi Honda, convenienlty located in Natick, MA on Route 9 E, has one of the largest inventories of Accords on the East Coast. Visit us today for a positive and informative car buying experience.

Bernardi Warranty to Cease Operations on Nov 2

American Honda has notifed all dealers who are authorized to sell Honda Care and Acura Care service contracts that they can no longer sell them on-line as of November 2, 2009.

Honda Care and Acura Care are service contracts whose coverage goes above and beyond that of your car's standard factory warranty. The comprehensive exclusionary coverage of Acura Care and Honda Care cover virtually every component of your vehicle, including drivetrain, electronics, chassis, cooling/heating, and genuine factory accessories. The contract is unique in that it is transferable from private party to private party one time only.

As of November 1, 2009, BernardiWarranty.com will cease operations so as to comply with Honda's sales policy for its service contracts. Thus, you are encouraged to plan your Honda Care and Acura Care purchases so as to not miss the opportunity to purchase them on-line at a significant discount.

Please call 800.455.5905 with questions.

Honda Ranked Second Most Valuable Brand by Business Week

NEW YORK — Late last week, BusinessWeek and Interbrand, a brand consultancy, released their ninth annual Best Global Brands list, which ranked 100 companies by brand value and included 11 automakers.

Among the auto brands that made the list, Honda was ranked highest (No. 18th), down only 7 percent from last year. Toyota was ranked 8th, down 8% from last year.

Ford was the lone domestic brand to make the list at No. 49.

BusinessWeek’s Best Global Brands ranking is based on Interbrand’s formula that computes a value for brands by making sure each one derives at least a third of its earnings from outside of its home country, is recognized beyond its base of customers, and has publicly available marketing and financial data. Those criteria eliminate most telecoms, heavyweights that sometimes operate under different brand names internationally (such as Wal-Mart), airlines (too hard to separate from factors such as routes and schedules), pharmaceutical brands (consumers typically relate to the product rather than the brand), private companies, and portfolios of brands.

Cash For Clunkers - Terminats on August 24th!

Secretary LaHood Announces Wind Down to Hugely Popular CARS Program

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced Thursday that after a wildly successful run, the cash for clunkers program willcome to a close on Monday, August 24th at 8 p.m. EDT.

“This program has been a lifeline to the automobile industry, jump starting a major sector of the economy and putting people back to work,” Secretary LaHood said. “At the same time, we’ve been able to take old, polluting cars off the road and help consumers purchase fuel efficient vehicles.”

As of today, the CARS program has recorded more than 457,000 dealer transactions worth $1.9 billion in rebates.

The Car Allowance Rebate System, as it is officially known, has sparked intense interest, filling auto showrooms with buyers and revitalizing manufacturing plants. As a result of the program, automotive inventory has been depleted and both General Motors and Ford are ramping up production, adding shifts and rehiring laid off workers.

“It’s been a thrill to be part of the best economic news story in America,” Secretary LaHood said. “Now we are working toward an orderly wind down of this very popular program.”

The program has provided rebates of up to $4,500 when people turned in their clunkers for fuel-efficient vehicles. Most consumers have turned in trucks and SUV’s in exchange for passenger cars, with an improved gas mileage of about 60 percent.
Secretary LaHood said the Monday night end date will allow car dealers and buyers plenty of time to finalize purchases and submit applications for rebate from the remainder of the $3 billion provided by Congress. Based on conservative estimates of valid transactions so far, DOT analysts have projected that there is enough money to continue accepting submissions until the Monday deadline.

Applications for rebates will not be accepted after 8 p.m. EDT Monday and dealers should not make further sales without receiving all the necessary paperwork from their customers. Dealers are also strongly advised to submit complete applications, which will expedite payment. Dealers will still be able to resubmit rejected applications after the deadline. The Department of Transportation is continuing to expand the number of people processing dealer applications for rebates by adding federal workers to the outside contractors currently at work.

For more information, please call Bernardi Honda at 800 254-0013 or visit Bernardi Honda at 960 Worcester Road in Natick. MA

American Honda Sales For July 2009

On August 3, 2009, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced July vehicle sales for their Honda Division of 106,028.

Sales of the fuel-efficient Honda Civic increased 3.1 percent to 30,037. Honda CR-V, a best-seller in the crossover utility vehicle segment, increased sales by 9.9 percent to 19,151.

"Strong interest from the CARS (aka Cash for Clunkers) program increased dealership traffic late in the month and contributed to Civic and CR-V sales gains," said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "July was our highest-volume month so far this year."

Cash For Clunkers Infused with $2 Billion

On Thursday night the Senate approvded the long awaited $2 billion extension to the extremely successful "Cash For Clunkers" program. Officials expect the additional funding will carry the program through Labor Day and will be adequate for a half of million new cars to be purchased.

In addition to saving consumers $3,500 to $4,500 on the cost of a new vehicle, MSNBC estimates the average Cash For Clunkers buyer will save $700 - $1,000 per year in fuel costs.

The Cash For Clunkers program is very complex and tedious for a new car dealership to properly administer. As a result, some large local Boston dealers have withdrawn from the program. Bernardi Honda, on the other hand, is committed to the Cash For Clunkers program and will continue to participate in it as long as government funding for the program is available. In suport of this commitment, Bernardi Honda has truck loads of new Honda cars, SUVs, trucks, and vans delivered daily to its large storage facility adjacent to its dealership.

Cash For Clunkers Funding Extension to be Passed Today?

A number of sources are reporting that the long awaited $2 billion Cash For Clunkers extension bill, passed by the House last week, will be voted on today by the Senate. USA Today reports today that Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., said he has enough votes to pass the bill, following lengthy negotiations with lawmakers from both parties.

The Obama administration said Wednesday that about $775 million of the original $1 billion allocation to the Car Allowance Rebate System, or CARS, has been spent, and applications for 185,000 rebates have been processed. The $2 billion extension is thought to be adequate to fund the program through Labor Day.

Unlike many dealers who are reporting critical shortages in inventory as a result of the high demand generated by the Cash For Clunkers program, Bernardi Honda continues to receive daily truckloads of new vehicles to replenish its most popular Honda cars, trucks, Minvans, and SUVs.

Cash For Clunkers Funding Likely

The Associated Press reported on Tuesday, August 4, that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid believes he has the votes to pass the $2 billion "cash for clunkers" measure already approved by the House. This bill will extend the Cash for Clunkers program whose original $1 billion is expected to be exhausted by Friday.

"We'll pass 'cash for clunkers' before we leave here," Reid said after Democrats lunched at the White House with Obama, who has vigorously pushed for the extension as a much-needed boost for the economy. Asked whether he had the votes to pass the measure, Reid replied, "Yes."

Due to the huge demand by consumers, Bernardi Honda has several trucks of new Honda cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs delivered each day. As might be expected, the Honda Honda Insight and Honda Hybrids are in heavy demand by Cash For Clunkers customers as are the Honda Fit, Civic, and Accord. Many customers are also trading in their fuel-thirsty big box SUVs for Honda's fuel efficient Pilot, CR-V, and Element SUVs. Minivan customers are also creating a demand for the Odyssey.

Cash For Clunkers August 3 Funding Status

On August 3, the Wallstreet Journal quoted Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood as predicting that the Obama administration "...could be forced to halt as early as Tuesday the "Cash for Clunkers" program because its 1 billion dollar budget would be depleted.

The Senate narrowly approved the initial Cash For Clunkers bill. Feinstein and Collins, who voted for the original bill, were on record as having said any extension to the Cash For Clunkers bill should push consumers to buy even more fuel-efficient vehicles and also to allow people to buy fuel-efficient used vehicles. Sen. On August 3, ABC News reported that with the recent "...blessing of senators Diane Feinstein, D-Calif., and Susan Collins, R-Maine, passing a clunkers refill by the end of the week suddenly seemed a lot more likely".

So by Friday we may have an extension of the Cash For Clunkers bill - with funding through the end of August. On the other hand, we may receive word as early as TODAY that the Cash For Clunkers program has been terminated.

Therefore, if you are thinking about taking advantage of the Cash For Clunkers program, Bernardi Honda suggests that you act today while funding is available as is a good selection of new Hondas at Bernardi Honda in Natick, MA.

Cash for Clunkers program is extended through the weekend

The Obama administration has officially said that any purchases made under the Cash for Clunkers program this weekend will be honored by the government. As recently as last night there were multiple reports that the program could be suspended today.

The attempts to extend the program are probably a wise move as an abrupt suspension would have greatly upset a good portion of the American public. Many people who want to take advantage of the program still have yet to bring in their clunkers.

Now that the program has been extended at least through the weekend expect consumer to rush in and make sure they take advantage of the bill. As I wrote earlier, I expect the program to get more funding and be extended even beyond the weekend for political reasons but many consumers will likely rush in to make a purchase this weekend and guarantee themselves the $3500 or $4500 credit.

House Approves Cash For Clunkers $2 billion extension

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. House of Representatives approved on Friday a $2 billion extension of the "Cash-for-Clunkers" automobile sales incentive program.

The Democratic proposal would run through September 30, 2010, and tap funds from an Energy Department loan guarantee program included in the economic stimulus package enacted in February.

An initial $1 billion in funding approved this summer to boost stagnant industry sales has already been exhausted, officials said.

Consumers stormed dealers over the past month to take advantage of federally backed rebates of up to $4,500 on trade ins of gas guzzlers for more fuel efficient vehicles.

Unofficial government and industry estimates show that close to 250,000 vehicles were sold under the program.

The Senate is expected to act on the House bill.

Already a key senator, Energy Committee Chairman Jeff Bingaman, said he opposes using Energy Department funds for the auto program.

Another senator, auto industry ally Debbie Stabenow, said pushing the measure out of Congress would potentially take a lot of work compared to the extraordinarily swift action in the House.

The White House supports new funding for the program on grounds the initiative so far has provided a viable, national economic stimulus amid recession.

You can learn if your 'clunker' is eligible for a $3,500 or $4,500 instant rebate by using Bernardi Honda's easy to use "Cash For Clunkers" tool.

Bernardi Honda - Cash For Clunkers Tool Published

On July 21, Bernardi Honda published its "Cash For Clunkers Tool". Unique in the New England area, it removes the mystery and insulates you from the confusing complexity of the new Department of Transportation "CARS" program. The tool can be accessed using the hot link on the home page of the Bernardi Honda web site.

The CARS program (Car Allowance Rebate System), commonly referred to as "Cash For Clunkers", was authorized on June 24, 2009 by Congress to stimulate the sales of new cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. The CARS program grants buyers of eligible new fuel-efficient vehicles a certificate worth $3,500 or $4,500 that reduces the price of a new vehicle when an eligible "clunker" is traded. The program is scheduled to end on November 1, 2009 or when the program's funding is depleted - whichever occurs first.

In five simple steps that take less than 3 minutes, you can print the Cash for Clunkers certificate for which you are eligible.

• Select your trade from the list of vehicles that were manufactured since 1984


• Select the new 2009 Honda or new 2010 Honda in which you are interested


• Enter information that personalizes your certificate and then press "PRINT" - your certificate is printed IMMEDIATELY - no waiting for someone to call or email you!

To use your certificate, drive your trade to Bernardi along with proof that it has been registered to you and insured continuously for the last 12 months. Bernardi Honda will deduct the certificate amount from the selling price of the new Honda in which you are interested - no waiting for the government to take action!

If you have questions on the new Cash For Clunkers program, please feel free to call our CARS program experts at 800-254-0013 for a no-obligation consultation.

Honda CR-Z Coming in 2010!

Futuristic styling. Hybrid power. Advanced interior design. And it's all wrapped up in a lightweight, fun-to-drive package. What a concept! It’s the Honda CR-Z concept, to be exact, and it made its North American debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

And now it's official: Honda has announced that a CR-Z based on the concept vehicle will go into production and be on sale in 2010.

Shorthand for “Compact Renaissance Zero,” the CR-Z is a forward-thinking exercise in inspired design and environmental technology. The CR-Z draws its inspiration from a need to deliver spirited performance in an efficient manner. It’s all part of our commitment to help effect positive environmental change. So keep on the lookout for more details about the CR-Z.

According to Left Lane News article dated 10/25/07...

• Powered by a gasoline-hybrid engine, Honda says CR-Z stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero.’ However Honda explains how they ended up with the CR-Z name, the car is an obvious successor to the popular CRX hatchback of the 1980s and early 90s.
  
• 
  Honda calls the CR-Z a “lightweight sports car,” indicating that it will have the performance to backup its sporty looks — highlighted by an over-sized grill and twin front air ducts. Honda failed to release any specific information about the show or production car, but it’s believed that the CR-Z shares its powertrain with the current Civic Hybrid.
  
• 
  The CR-Z’s interior follows the design theme of “Hi-tech and Sporty,” achieved by a very futuristic instrument panel. Honda also designed the interior to seem very airy and spacious by using mesh material on a simple framework.
  

As is the case with all Honda vehicles,

• Bernardi Honda will, as the second largest Honda dealer in the Northesst, carry the all new CR-Z in all available colors and body styles as soon as it is released by Honda.
• Bernardi Parts will, as the second largest Parts and Accessory dealer in the US, carry a full line of parts and accessories for the new 2010 Honda CR-Z as soon as they are made available by American Honda.

Honda Accord CrossTour Parts and Accessories

Honda has confirmed that they will offer a cross-over styled vehicle this fall. It is named "Honda Accord CROSSTOUR". They have not released any additional information to their dealers at this time.

Bernardi Honda will offer a complete color and trim level selection of the new cross-over styled Accord CrossTour when it is released.

BernardiParts.com will offer a complete selection of authentic Honda Accord CrossTour Accessories and Honda Accord CrossTour Parts for the new vehicle when it is released. A preview of the new accessories can be viewed at http://www.bernardiparts.com/2010-Honda-CrossTour-Parts-Accessories.aspx

Cars For Clunkers Tool

The Cash For Clunkers (aka Car Alowance Rebate System or CARS) program will be launced by the Federal Government on July 24. This innovative program makes 1 billion dollars available, in the form of $3,500 and $4,500 certificates, which are used to reduce the price of your new 2009 Honda or 2010 Honda vehicle.

The rules for determining eligibility for the government certificates are very complex and confusing.

To facilitate your participation in the Cash For Clunkers program, Bernardi Honda has developed a unique and easy to use Cash For Clunkers Tool that allows you to print your certificate in less than two minutes. You simply...

• Select your trade-in vehicle from a list of all vehicles manufactured since 1984


• Select your new Honda from a list of new Hondas that includes two important pieces of information:
  
  
  • the dollar amont of the certificate that you will receive
  
  
  • your 5-year savings in fuel cost compared to your current vehicle


• Enter your contact information for inclusion on your certificate


• Print your certificate and bring it to Bernardi Honda


• Bernardi will reduce the price of your new Honda by the amount of your certificate - no waiting for the government to take action!

On July 21 you will find a link to the "Bernardi Cash For Clunkers" tool on the BernardiHonda.com home page.

Some experts are suggesting that the 1 Billion dollars will run out well before the Nov 1 program expiration. Thus, Bernardi Honda urges you to act quickly if you are planning to take advantage of this short-term program.

s the 2nd largest Honda Dealer in New England, Bernardi Honda will have an extensice inventory of new 2009 and 2010 Honda Fits, Civics, Accords, Pilots, Elements, CRVs, Insights, Odysseys, and S2000s that qualify for the Cash For Clunkers program. We will also have a sales team who are trained on the Cash for Clunkers program and can assist you in understanding its complexities.

Sales Tax and Fees Deduction for Vehicle Purchases

If you are thinking about a new car, truck, SUV, or minvan, this is the time to purchase it. In addition to the Honda Model Clearance Sale at Bernardi and the Cash for Clunkers program that will be implemented next month, you may also be entitled to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase on your 2009 tax return.

Internal Revenue Service Commissioner Doug Shulman said, “This deduction enables taxpayers to buy now and get cash back later on their tax returns.” You must purchase after February 16, 2009, and before January 1, 2010, to qualify for the deduction.

The special deduction is available when you file your 2009 tax return - regardless of whether you itemize deductions on Schedule A.

The deduction is limited to the tax on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of an eligible motor vehicle. The deduction is phased out for joint filers with modified adjusted gross income between $250,000 and $260,000 and other taxpayers with modified AGI between $125,000 and $135,000.

Taxpayers who make qualifying new vehicle purchase this year can estimate their deduction with the help of IRS Publication 919, How Do I Adjust My Withholding? Lines 10a to 10k on Worksheet 10 take into account purchases above the $49,500 limit, as well as the income phase-outs.

Related Items:
IR-2009-60, Special Tax Break on New Car Purchases Available in States With No Sales Tax
IR-2009-30, Special Tax Break Available for New Car Purchases This Year
Flyers, posters and marketing products
Seven Facts about the New Sales Tax Deduction
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: Information Center

Obama signed Cash for Clunkers bill

President Barack Obama signed into law the Department of Transportation "Cash for Clunkers" bill on June 24. His signature kicks off a 30-day period in which the Transportation Department will prepare regulations for the program. The National Automobile Dealers Association is advising dealers to wait until the rules are out late next month before participating.

Bernardi Honda will participate in the program as soon as adequate information is available to ensure rebate commitments to customers can be guaranteed by Bernardi.

The timing of the program's implementation will ensure customers receive the best deal on a new Honda car, minivan, truck, or SUV since it will overlap with American Honda's Model Year End Clearance when maximum discounts are offered to customers.

Additional information on the Cash for Clunkers program can be found at http://fueleconomy.gov/feg/cars.shtml

Cash for Clunkers - Available July 1

Outlined below are the guidelines for the "Cash for Clunkers" program that will be launched on July 1, 2009. The program enables consumers to trade in older less efficient vehicles in exchange for a voucher that can be used towards the purchase of a new car or truck. Vouchers are worth either $3500 or $4500 depending on the fuel economy of the vehicle that is turned in and the new vehicle that is acquired. The program will be available for vehicles sold between July 1, 2009 and November 1, 2009.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is setting up a website - http://www.cars.gov/ - dedicated to the program.

The program is outlined below along with commonly asked questions.

Check back on July 1 for information on the BernardiHonda.com "Cash for Clunkers Tool". It will enable you to select your trade from a list of older vehicles and then instantly identify which government credit you are eligible for based upon the new Honda that you are interested in buying.

GUIDELINES: Trade-In Qualification

• Gets no more than 18 miles per gallon (mpg)
• Was manufactured after 1984
• Is in drivable condition
• Was continuously insured to you for the last 12 months
• If a work truck, was manufactured before 2002
  

GUIDELINES: New Vehicle Qualification

Cars

• New previously unregistered car
• Maximum Value to Qualify $45,000
• Minimum MPG to qualify: 22
• $3,500 Voucher - New car that gets at least 4 mpg higher than your trade-in
• $4,500 Voucher - New car that gets at least 10 mpg higher than your trade-in.

Small Light-duty Pick-up trucks, MiniVans, SUVs (Category 1 Truck) ^****

• New previously unregistered light-duty truck
• Minimum MPG to qualify: 18
• $3,500 Voucher - New vehicle that gets at least 2 mpg higher^* than your trade-in.
• $4,500 Voucher - New vehicle that gets at least 5 mpg higher^* than your trade-in.

Large Light-duty Pick-up trucks and Vans (Category 2 Truck: 6,000 to 8,500 lbs)

• New previously unregistered pick-up truck or van
• Minimum MPG to qualify: 15
• $3,500 Voucher - New truck that gets at least 1 mpg higher^* than your trade-in.
• $4,500 Voucher - New truck that gets at least 2 mpg higher^* than your trade-in.

Work trucks (Category 3 Truck: 8,500 and 10,000 pounds)

• New previously unregistered work truck

$3,500 Voucher - any new work truck

---

COMMON QUESTIONS

Can I receive a credit if I trade an SUV in for a more fuel efficient car?
Yes. You can trade an SUV in for a more fuel efficient car. The law does not specifiy that a car must be traded in for the purchase of a car or an SUV must be traded in for the purchase of an SUV. The law does, however, specify that the purchase of a class 2 truck such as the Ridgeline may have only a class 2 or class 3 truck as a trade-in.

Will I be eligible for the credit if I lease rather than purchase or finance my new
vehicle?
Yes. You are eligiable for the credit regardless of the method of payment used in purchasing your new vehicle.

Will I receive the fair market value of my car, as listed in KBB, Black Book, etc
in addition to the credit?
No. The law requires your trade-in vehicle to be destroyed. Therefore, the value you negotiate with the dealer for your trade-in vehicle isnot likely to exceed its scrap value. The law requires the dealer to disclose to you an estimate of the scrap value of your trade-in vehicle.

Does this program apply only to American Cars?
No. To be eligible for the credit, the trade may be imported or American and the new vehicle can be imported or american made.

I can't find the MPG rating for my work truck. What do I do?
Some trucks, such as work trucks, were never rated for fuel economy. For these trucks, age is the only criterion for determining whether they are eligible trade-in vehicles. If you have one of these trucks, it must be from model year 2001 or earlier, but also the date of manufacture must be less than 25 years from the date you trade it in, to be an eligible trade-in vehicle. Other restrictions may also apply.

I just traded my old car in June. Am I eligible for the credit?
No. The program starts on July 1. Prior purchases are not eligible.

Can I trade-in more than one "clunker" for a single new vehicle so I can get multiple
credits
No. You are eligible for no more than one credit for each new car purchase.

Can I buy a really cheap older car and use it as a trade to get a rebate?
No. The trade must be registered to and insured by the person trading the car for at least the last 12 months.

Can I turn in an old car and take the credit myself rather than buying a new car?
No. The credit must be applied as partial payment to the purchase of a new vehicle.

Is the credit considered income by the state or federal government?
No. The credit is not considered as income by the state or federal government. THus, it is not taxable and it can not be used to determine benefits or assistance.

How does the program work?

• Use the "Cash for Clunkers" tool on http://www.bernardihonda.com/ (available on of July 1) to determine if your trade qualifies for a credit. If you are not sure, please call Bernardi Honda at 800-254-0013 and ask for a "Cash for Clunkers" program specialist.
• When you visit Bernardi to make your purchase, drive your trade (it must be operable) and bring the title, registration and
  insurance papers showing continuous registration and insurance coverage of your trade for the past full year.
• Bernardi will reduce the selling or lease price of the new Honda vehicle by the amount of the credit for which you are eligible. You don't have to wait for the government to take action!
• Bernardi Honda will handle the submission of all required paperwork to NHTSA
• NHTSA will audit the paperwork to verify that your sales transaction meets the requirements for a credit
• About 10 days after paperwork submission, the NHTSA will issue a financial credit to Bernardi — assuming all program requirements have been met.

Woman’s Seminar on Car Purchasing

On June 9th Bernardi Honda held its second Woman’s Seminar on Car Purchasing at its dealership on
Worcester Street in Natick. The seminar was held to dispel the image of the woman
not be a key participant in the car purchasing process. In fact 75% of the vehicle
purchases in the United States are made by women. This seminar was designed to empower
woman with the knowledge necessary to successfully make a vehicle purchase.

Lemon Laws
Guest Speaker, Paula Fleming Vice President of Communications for the Better Business
Bureau (BBB) began the evening with important criteria pertaining to Lemon Laws.
The documentation given included helpful tips and phone numbers consumers can contact
at the BBB for information on area businesses. She also provided information to
help identify dealerships with proven records of excellent customer service –as
well as those who fail to make the grade.

Dealership Selection
Heather MacKinnon joined us from DealerRater.com and provided our guests with the
best way to find a consumer review for a dealership utilizing the internet. She
addressed specific ways to search for a reputable dealer on-line by using Google.com
and their reviews will pop up automatically. Adding that a consumer review is most
important to get an accurate read of how you will be treated and that Bernardi Auto
Group’s dealerships have a great reputation for a pleasant experience with Sales
or Service.

Credit and Financing
The next speaker was Karen Fisher, Business Manager for Bernardi Auto Group. She
was able to answer several questions from the audience regarding what great vs.
not so great credit entails. They were also given a handout that included a pie
chart with the compilation of a Fico score and what the ranges mean. She continued
on with the benefits of leasing a vehicle and the “extras” that are helpful with
your purchase, such as extended warranties and GAP insurance.

Service
Christine Kristoff-Cote Service Director at Bernardi Audi brought her 20 years of
service expertise to the table. She was able to squash common fears of engine lights
and provided guidance for the best maintenance on any vehicle. The tire gauges and
tread depth measuring tools were terrific props for the ladies to learn how to use
properly and they were encouraged to take them home at the end evening.

Throughout the evening their were many great raffle prizes. The grand prize was a free one month membership at Curves Fitness of Natick. Curves also provided each attendee with fitness
magazines and guest passes.

Dinner was provided by Fresh City of Framingham.

We would like to thank the following local businesses for their giveaway gifts:
Beauty Way Cosmetics and Hair Products, Curves Fitness of Natick, DeliMax Pizzeria,
Dolphin Restaurant, Five Crows Hand Crafts, Salon Paradiso, Stephanie Sandler of
Strands and the Vitamin Shoppe of Framingham.

Special thanks go to Sallie Longeri, Tom Parks, Jim Blaney, John Shuberth, Paul
Dibasio and Robbie Walker of Bernardi Auto Group for their help with the evening.

The next Woman's Seminar is scheduled for October. Please call Kristin Cullinane at 774 290-1423.

Dollars For Clunkers Goes to Senate

On June 9th, the House approved their HR-2751 Cash for Clunkers bill that aims to boost new auto sales by encouraging consumers to trade in their gas-guzzling cars and trucks for vouchers worth up to $4,500. The vouchers can be used to buy or lease a new more fuel-efficient vehicle.

Meanwhile, an almost identical bill seems to have S-1200 Cash for Clunkers has stalled in the Senate. To help break the stalemate, a coalition of senators led by Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who sponsored the original and much tougher Senate version of the Cash for Clunkers bill, introduced an alternative measure that would require greater fuel efficiency than the House bill.

To qualify for a voucher under the alternative Senate plan, consumers would have to trade in a car rated at 17 mpg or less and purchase a new car that gets at least 24 mpg. Consumers could receive a $2,500 voucher for a new car that gets at least 7 mpg more than their old car, $3,500 for a new car with a 10 mpg gain in fuel efficiency, and $4,500 for one with an increase of 13 mpg or more.

Source: About.com

Cash for Clunkers - Passed By House

Yesterday the House passed a $4 billion bill to motivate consumers to purchase new vehicles by subsidizng their purchase. The "Cash for Clunkers" bill (H.R. 2751) would give vouchers to consumers worth up to $4,500 when they trade in a "gas guzzler" and buy a new car that is more fuel efficient. The legislation now goes to the Senate. President Obama has said he supports such a measure.

The House version of the bill applies to vehicles that average less than 18 mpg combined city and highway driving. $3,500 could be applied to a new light truck or van that was more fuel efficient than the old one by at least 4 mpg or $4,500 if the new vehicle is 10 mpg more efficient.

Vehicles that have not been insured for the past year or that are older than 25 years are not eligible to be traded in for vouchers.

The bill would require dealers to accept the trade-in automobiles on behalf of the U.S. government and arrange for the transfer of any trade-ins to an entity that will dispose of the car by crushing or shredding it. The trade-in may not be, sold, leased, exchanged, or otherwise disposed. The entity responsible for crushing the automobile may sell parts from the car other than the engine block and drive train

You can determine the MPG rating of your vehicle as well as that of a vehicle of interest by visiting http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm

As soon as the bill is enacted Bernardi Honda will provide details on the size voucher that your vehicle will be eligable for when trading for the new Honda vehicle of interest to you.

House OKs $4 Billion Cash for Clunkers (CNNMoney)

Bernardi Honda Service Coupons

Bernardi Honda's Service Specials and Service Coupons are a great way for you to keep your car running like new while saving yourself a lot of money. Our service coupons will help you save money on Honda auto repairs, Honda maintenance work and quality Honda auto parts.

Our current service coupons can be viewed at http://www.bernardihonda.com/MiscPage and offer drivers:

• FREE Air Conditioning Service
• Oil change and Lube with FREE multi-point inspection for $29.95
• $99 of on Timing Belt Replacment
• $10 off on In-cabin Micro-Filter Replacment
• $10 off on Minor Maintenance
• $20 off on Intermediate Maintenance
• $30 off Major Maintenance and FREE Car Rental

We also offer a number of detailing coupons which can be viewed at http://www.bernardihonda.com/MiscPage_18

To use a coupon, schedule your service appointment at http://www.bernardihonda.com/ServiceApptForm. Print the service coupons and bring them with you to your service at Bernardi Honda. We are located at 960 Worcester Street, Route 9 East between Speen Street and Route 27, in Natick MA.

Sales Tax Deduction for New Vehicle Purchases

In an effort to stimulate new car sales, the Internal Revenue Service announced that taxpayers who buy a new passenger vehicle this year may be entitled to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase on their 2009 tax returns next year.

The deduction is limited to the state and local sales and excise taxes paid on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of a qualified new car, light truck, motor home or motorcycle.

The amount of the deduction is phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers and between $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers.

To be eligable, the vehicle must be purchased after Feb. 16, 2009, and before Jan. 1, 2010, to qualify for the deduction.

The special deduction is available regardless of whether a taxpayer itemizes deductions on their return. The IRS reminded taxpayers the deduction may not be taken on 2008 tax returns.

2010 Honda CrossTour Feature and Picture Rumors

Today Vtec published photos that are reported to be of the 2010 Honda CrossTour.

The following is a summary of rumors that were also published today on vtec:

• 26 Oct 2009 is the release date


• NO 4cyl or manual trans. V6 with VCM 2WD or 4WD. 260 plus HP


• 3,500lb towing


• Accord platform.


• 2.5 inches taller than current Accord and 7 inches LONGER than the Venza.


• Base 2wd, 4x4, a mid and top with Navi


• power fold down seats on the upper models


• dealer installed plastic floor cover that will allow it to be like a truck bed


• 18 inch wheels on top models along with possible power hatch

A preview of accessories that will be available for the all new 2010 Accord CrossTour can be viewed at:
http://www.bernardiparts.com/2010-Honda-CrossTour-Parts-Accessories.aspx

Bernardi Honda Awarded Angie's List Super Service Award

Bernardi Honda's service division is proud to again be a recipient of the prestigus "Angie's List Super Service Award".

A company must receive a minimum number of positive reports during the calendar year based on the market size and maturity without a negative report. An Angie's List chapter must be established for at least one year prior to any company being considered for the Angie's List Super Service Award.

Honda FCX Clarity Named 2009 World Green Car

The Honda FCX Clarity was named 2009 World Green Car at a press conference hosted by the New York International Auto Show in New York on April 9, 2009. There were a total of 23 award contenders that were nominated by 59 World Car jurors from 25 countries worldwide.

The Honda FCX Clarity is powered by a Vertical Flow (V Flow) fuel cell that combines hydrogen with oxygen to make electricity. The electricity then powers the quiet coaxial E-Drive Honda electric motor, which in turn propels the vehicle. Water is the only byproduct the FCX Clarity leaves behind.

The V Flow fuel cell stack is one of Honda’s greatest breakthroughs in this area. The new design is smaller, allowing for better packaging efficiency. With a smaller stack, there’s room for more people. This ingenious design allows higher cell voltage stability and reduces the amount of heat generated. Gravity also helps with drainage of the excess water.

The compact, high-efficiency lithium-ion battery pack is used as a supplemental power source capturing lost energy during deceleration and braking. The new lithium-ion battery delivers improved performance and energy recovery in a more lightweight, compact package. The new battery is significantly lighter and smaller than the ultra-capacitor of the 2005 FCX, allowing it to be stowed under the rear seat. This gives the car more passenger space and a bigger trunk.

Stylish? Definitely. It’s time to take another look at the FCX. This new model has a lower floor and sleeker overall design thanks to integration of the more compact stack and smaller powertrain. Thin A-pillars allow better visibility. A flat-bottom underbody reduces aerodynamic drag and increases efficiency.

Over the next three years the FCX Clarity will be available in very limited quantities, primarily in Southern Califonia, through a three-year lease of $600/mo.

New Bernardi Honda Site for Mobile Phone Users

Bernardi Honda has recently introduced a new web site (http://www.BernardiHonda.mobi) for users of mobile phones that have Internet capability. The web site is custom designed for the smaller screens of these deivces. Limited content on this new web site includes:
1. New car inventory
2. Used Car invenotry
3. Payment Calculator
4. Dealer Info and Map

Dog Friendly Element

John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda, announced that the Honda Element will now begin chasing dogs - or more specifically their owners. This will be done through a new "Dog Friendly" version of the Element that is scheduled to debut in the Fall of 2009.

The Element is already considered the "Best Dog Car Ever" by DogCars.com. The new dog-friendly Element will transform the Element into the ultimate dog car by including built in a cushioned pet bed, restraint systems and other components.

The Dog Friendly equipment was engineered specifically for the Element to accommodate the transportation of dogs in the second-row passenger seats or in the cargo area. The restraint system concepts were designed and fabricated by Takata Corporation, one of the world's leading automotive safety systems suppliers.

Specific features of the new dog-griendly Element include:
•a cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform;
•second row and cargo area pet restraint systems;
•an extendable cargo area load-in ramp;
•a 12V DC rear ventilation fan;
•second-row seat covers with a dog pattern design (matches the bed fabric);
•all-season rubber floor mats with a toy bone pattern;
•a spill-resistant water bowl; and
•Dog Friendly exterior emblems.

Honda Insight Best Selling Car in April

In April 2009, a hybrid vehicle was the best-selling car in Japan for the first time ever. But the winner was not Toyota's popular Prius hybrid which finished 21st on the list. It was the new 2010 Honda Insight - manufactured by the second largest automobile manufacturer in Japan.

The Honda Jazz (called the Fit in the US) had been the best-selling car for the previous four consecutive months. The Honda Insight and Honda Jazz sold 10,841 units and 9,443 units, respectively in April.

Source: Jalopnik, Treehugger, and Edmunds.

New Owner's Clinic - May 2009

The latest New Owner Workshop, held on the evening of May 5, 2009, was very well attended - with standing room only! Guests raved about the dinner provided by Bronzetti’s of Framingham who also graciously donated 2 gift certificates for our multiple raffle drawing.

General Manager, Joel Richards opened the program by expressing his passion for customer service and what the “Bernardi for Now, Bernardi for Life” means to his team.

Service Director, Rick Voss walked our guests through the steps to arranging for service on their Honda vehicle. He described the convenience of the service drive through and encouraged our guests to drive through if they need a complementary fluid top off or air in their tires.

Mark Saraceno, Service Manager was described the added value of an extended warranty as compared to the standard factory warranty.

Don Keller, Shop Foreman shared important stats on fuel economy and how our driving habits affect them. Don lingered after the workshop to offer one-on-one answers to specific vehicle questions that were posed by guests.

Steve Cullinane, Parts Director explained the importance of using Genuine Honda Parts versus aftermarket for the best performance in the Honda automobile. He also described Bernardi’s huge wholesale parts operation and the fact that we supply certified Honda parts to many New England repair shops.

eCommerce Manager Erik Richards introduced bernardiparts.com where maintenance items and accessories can be purchased. With the specials offered monthly clients can have these parts shipped to their homes and bring them to service for installation.

Mike Szabatura & Dan Enderle of American Honda brought new model information and explained the importance of properly maintaining your Honda. They also kept the crowd entertained with the “dog friendly” Honda Element that has been designed for your pampered pooch.

We ended the evening with our Customer Relations Facilitator Kristin Cullinane encouraged guests to participate if they receive a survey call from American Honda. She explained how important customer feedback from these calls is to our continuous quality improvement program.

The program concluded with the distribution of Bernardi Bucks certificates to each attendee and a raffle of a $100.00 Shell Fuel Gift Card.

To make a reservation for the next workshop, please contact Sallie Longeri by calling 774-290-1411 or by e-mail at sallie.longeri@bernardiautogroup.com

Bernardi Hosts Car Seminar for Women

A free informational seminar on vehicle purchase and ownership hosted by women for women will be held Tuesday, June 9, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Bernardi Honda, 960 Worcester St. (Rte. 9 east), Natick. This second annual event will be moderated by Kristin Cullinane, an automotive professional whose background includes vehicle maintenance and customer service expertise. She will be joined by a number of other women who will share vehicle purchasing and maintenance tips.

Paula Fleming, a representative of the Better Business Bureau, will discuss consumer rights and will make suggestions on how to wisely buy or lease a vehicle.

Heather MacKinnon, of Dealerater.com, will describe her company’s Web site which is used:

• by customers to describe and rate their experience in buying and servicing their vehicle.
• by customers who are looking to select dealerships that have proven themselves as offering excellent customer service.

Because sorting through the numerous options for financing or leasing a vehicle can be challenging, auto finance expert Karen Fisher will discuss credit scores and their impact on finance rates, how to evaluate lease vs. buy optiosn, and other important considerations in financing your vehicle purchase.

And to keep your car in top operating condition, Christine Kristoff-Cote, an auto service manager with more than 20 years of experience, will give advice on routine and special maintenance programs offered by Bernardi.

A complimentary light dinner buffet will be served, and a donation on behalf of each person in attendance will be made to the American Cancer Society for the benefit of breast cancer research.

There will be several gifts for those in attendance, including a discount coupon for the purchase of a new or used car or truck at any of the Bernardi Auto Group dealerships, sponsors of the program.

To make a reservation, contact Sallie Longeri by calling 774-290-1411 or by e-mail at sallie.longeri@bernardiautogroup.com

Congress Considering Cash for Clunkers Bill

Congress appears to be close to agreement on a long debated Cash For Clunkers bill that includes a provision for reimbursing owners of 'klunkers' or 'guzzlers' for trading them in for more fuel efficient vehicles.

The traded vehicle must be:
+ driveable,
+ registered in the US,
+ have a fuel economy rating of less than 18 miles per gallon at the time of their purchase.

The purchased vehicle must:
+ get at least 22 mpg for cars and 18 mpg for small trucks,
+ be at least 25 percent more fuel efficient than the traded vehicle,
+ be a model year 2004 or later,
+ have an MSRP of less than $45,000.

The reimbursement vouchers would be for:
+ $3,500 if the mileage improvement is at least
-- 4 m.p.g. for a car
-- 2 mpg for a small truck.
+ $4,500 if the mileage improvement is at least
-- 10 m.p.g. for a car
-- 5 mpg for a small truck

2010 Honda Crossover - Fall 2009?

As is typically the case, Honda never provides its dealers with formal announcements of future vehicles until they are about to ship. This is the case with the new Honda crossover vehicle. 3rd-party sites that are not affiliated with American Honda expect a new Honda 2010 crossover style wagon to go on sale in the October / November timeframe of 2009. There is no agreement among automotive writers on the name of the new Honda cross tour style vehicle:

2010 Honda Crosstour - LeftLaneNews 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - houstoncars 2010 Honda Accord Wagon - 8th Civic 2010 Honda Passport - Honda / Acura Central 2010 Honda Accord TourerWorld Car Fans Industry writers suggest the 2010 Honda crossover will have an Accord look to its nose, will be larger than the popular CR-V, and smaller than the Pilot - with a price point between the two. Initial rumors were that the crossover would be based upon the Acura ZDX. Now, LeftLaneNews suggests the 2010 Honda crossover will be built in Honda's Marysville, Ohio facility and will be built upon a modifed Accord chasis. According to Consumer Guide Auto, the new 2010 Honda crossover styled vehicle will be based upon the European-market Accord wagon that has been modified to offer elevated ride height, a few telling inches spliced into the body, and an Accord sedan nose. They further suggest that there might be a 4-cylinder and 6-cyl option as well as a front-wheel and an all-wheel drive option. Like the Venza, the industry predicts the 2010 Honda cross over style wagon will have unique tall-body styling without traditional wagon boxiness, plus a slightly larger footprint than its sedan parent. It will also mimic the Toyota Venza with two-row seating for five passengers and no third-row option. Left Lane News reports that the new 2010 Honda crossover style wagon will be available with Honda’s VTM-4 AWD system. If and when Honda releases a 2010 crossover style vehicle in the fall of 2009, Bernardi Parts will offer a complete selection of crossover style parts and crossover style accessories for it..