Posts Tagged ‘Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association’
2015 Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association Family Car Challenge at Lake Lanier Islands Resort
Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association (GAAMA) named the Subaru Outback as 2015 Best Family Car at its third-annual Family Car Challenge at Lake Lanier Islands Resort near Atlanta. The versatile and attractive Outback earned the highest overall score among 19 vehicles competing.
Each family-friendly vehicle also competed for awards in one of five categories: Value, Green, Tech, 3-Row and Luxury. The overall win by the Outback opened up the highly competitive Value category win to the runner-up, the sporty Mazda CX-5. The efficient yet capable Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel earned the Best Green Family Car award, while the Mazda6 retained its Tech category dominance established in last year’s competition. Best 3-Row Family Car honors went to the spacious and comfortable Toyota Sienna. Finally, the high-performing Porsche Macan Turbo was named Best Luxury Family Car.
“GAAMA is proud to announce the results of our latest Family Car Challenge, and we applaud the Subaru Outback for its Best Family Car victory,” said GAAMA President Jim Tucker. “Our experts considered factors like styling, safety, comfort and efficiency, and the results reflect the best in both innovation and execution. The overall winner and each of our category winners are must-drive models for anyone shopping for a new family car.”
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GAAMA is a professional organization of automotive media, auto manufacturers and public relations professionals that provides a forum for newsworthy people, products and events in the automotive industry. GAAMA regularly brings together its members for meetings, product presentations, vehicle demonstrations and other programs, helping members build networks and stay current with industry trends.
Below is a gallery of event highlights:
Patrick Hernandez of General Motors, Jessica Tullman of Subaru – congratulations, Subaru Outback voted 2015 Best Family Car – Barbara Pomerance of Pomerance & Associates, Bonnie Morét of Pomerance & Associates and Tamara Mlynarczyk of Mazda. Photo courtesy of Wojtek Wysocki.
The beautiful GAAMA Awards
The vehicles are lined up and ready to be driven.
Beautiful Lake Lanier is the perfect setting for this fun-filled driving event.
The event sponsors.
Toyota Sienna
Acura MDX
Mazda6
Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel
Hyundai Sonata Eco
Dodge Durango
Nissan Rogue
Barbara Pomerance driving the Porsche Macan Turbo.
Bonnie Morét enjoying a ride in the Porsche Macan Turbo and the picture perfect day.
One Midtown Kitchen played host to GAAMA and the all-new 2015 Corvette
On Thursday, Sept. 18, Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association (GAAMA) members had the privilege of test-driving the 2015 Corvette. In 2014, Corvette sales were up 232% in (January through August). The Stingray averages 20 days to turn. Corvette sales growth has made the “sports/sporty” segment the second-fastest growing segment in the industry, according to AutoPacific. And, with the addition of Z06, Chevrolet will offer 14 performance cars, no other brand comes close.
The all-new 8-speed automatic transmission is offered on all Corvette models, as is the industry-exclusive performance data recorder.
The industry-exclusive performance data recorder was conceived by Chevrolet and built in collaboration with Cosworth. It has and integrated video camera, microphone, and GPS/telemetry system which seamlessly records drive videos you can watch in the car or download and share online. It also includes professional-level telemetry analysis software so drivers can improve their skills by using similar data analytics used by Corvette Racing.
Valet drivers beware because the system includes a Valet Mode, which allows drivers to record what happens when their Corvette is out of sight.
Highlights below:
GAAMA’s president, Nick Palermo, welcomes the guests.
Fred Ligouri greeted GAAMA members and introduced Todd Christensen.
Todd Christensen introduced GAAMA members to the 2015 Corvette and the industry-exclusive performance data recorder.
GAAMA members are impressed with the lineup.
Fred Ligouri explains how the industry-exclusive performance data recorder works.
What a beauty!
Barbara Pomerance, CEO of Pomerance & Associates with Nick Palermo, President of Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association.
GAAMA, Golf and the 2015 Acura TLX
Pomerance & Associates and other members of the Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association (GAAMA) were among the first to experience the features of the all-new 2015 Acura TLX at Top Gold in Alpharetta on August 13.
The 2015 Acura TLX is an all-new midsize sports sedan, the successor to the TL, and the third vehicle in Acura’s re-envisioned performance-luxury sedan lineup, positioned between the ILX entry-luxury sedan and the RLX flagship Acura sedan.
Developed under the theme of ‘Red Carpet Athlete,’ the all-new TLX is designed to deliver a unique and compelling blend of sports-sedan athleticism and premium (red-carpet) luxury refinement, while delivering on Acura’s ‘Synergy Between Man and Machine’ product direction – characterized by vehicles that perform “at the will of the driver” with intuitive, exhilarating and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics.
Dan Powderly of Acura explains the “Red Carpet Athlete” concept to GAAMA members.
GAAMA members are lined up to explore the interior of the 2015 Acura TLX.
GAAMA members love photo ops and the 2015 Acura TLC is a beauty.
GAAMA’s Nick Palermo chats with Creed Pannell of the “The Atlanta Business Journal” and a guest about today’s meeting.
Barbara Pomerance of Pomerance & Associates is impressed with the sleek design and roomy interior.
As you can see, GAAMA members cannot get enough of the 2015 Acura TLX.
Sara Pines, Honda-Acura Public Relations discussed the 2015 Acura TLX with Barbara Pomerance.
V-103’s Bob Jackson and GAAMA’s Nick Palermo leave no button untouched as they closely examine the interior of the 2015 Acura TLX.
GAAMA’s view will “par-taking” lunch at Top Golf in Alpharetta.
For more information about the all-new 2015 Acura TLX or other models, visit www.acura.com.
Buick Regal With OnStar 4G LTE Technology
On July 24, Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association (GAAMA) members had the opportunity to experience the Buick Regal with OnStar 4G LTE Technology at One Midtown Kitchen.
The Buick Regal has new technologies for 2015, offering customers greater connectivity which complements lifestyles that are more connected than ever. Included are OnStar with 4G LTE and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, as well as IntelliLink with Text Messaging Alerts and Siri Eyes Free.
OnStar with 4G LTE and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot provide a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected.
Select 2015 Buick models on display at One Midtown Kitchen.
Nick Richards, Buick Communications, discusses the new technologies for 2015, offering customers greater connectivity which complements lifestyles that are more connected than ever.
Nick Richards, Buick Communications, details the rollout.
OnStar’s Stuart Fowle, Global Connected Consumer Communications, explains how OnStar with 4G LTE and standard built-in Wi-Fi hotspot provides a mobile hub for drivers and passengers to stay connected.
GAAMA members lineup to experience OnStar with 4G LTE in the 2015 Buick Regal.
GAAMA Names Best New Vehicles for Families
Greater Atlanta Automotive Media Association (GAAMA) named winners at its second-annual Family Choice Challenge event held last week at Lake Lanier Islands Resort north of Atlanta.
The following brands and models were registered for the 2014 GAAMA Family Choice Challenge:
Audi A3
Buick LaCrosse
Chevrolet Tahoe
Chrysler 200
Dodge Journey
Ford Escape
Ford Fiesta
Ford Fusion Energi
Honda Odyssey
Hyundai Genesis
Jeep Cherokee
Lexus GX 460
Mazda 3
Mazda 6
Nissan Altima
Nissan Juke NISMO
Nissan Rogue
Subaru XV Crosstrek
Toyota Highlander
Volkswagen Jetta
Nissan’s Steve Parrett and Paige Presley with the Nissan Juke NISMO.
Automotive and lifestyle journalists chose the 2015 Hyundai Genesis as Top Family Choice, while five other family-friendly models earned category awards.
Hyundai’s impressive Genesis sedan is completely redesigned for the 2015 model year. The Genesis earned high marks from judges thanks to its handsome styling, comfortable and spacious cabin, technology-rich features and strong overall value. An average score of 31.2 (out of a possible 35 points) outpaced nineteen competitors to earn top honors.
Ariel Garcia-Linares and Logan Utsman with 2015 Hyundai Genesis winner of the Top Family Choice award.
“A sport sedan like the 2015 Hyundai Genesis is attractive to drivers that want a family car but don’t want to sacrifice on style and performance,” said Nick Palermo, GAAMA president. “The Genesis earned its place as 2014 Top Family Choice by exceeding expectations. Although the previous-generation Genesis sedan is an impressive car, this new model again raises the bar for both Hyundai and its competitors. Families looking for accessible luxury should add the 2015 Genesis to their short lists.”
Adventure Choice: 2014 Honda Odyssey
When minivans first arrived decades ago, these spacious and efficient vehicles quickly became the go-to choice for families on the move. Although many drivers now choose SUVs and crossovers instead, minivans are still tough to beat for hauling your crew and its gear, whether around town or across the country. These capabilities helped the 2014 Honda Odyssey to victory in a category consisiting mostly of SUVs and crossovers.
Adventure Choice Winner: 2014 Honda Odyssey.
The Adventure Choice category was the events most competitive, with seven entries. The Odyssey earned an average of 30.0 points to top the category. Indeed, Honda’s van has everything families need to make their next trip an adventure. A low floor makes climbing in and out easy for passengers young and old. Comfortable and flexible seating accommodates up to eight. And driving dynamics are excellent, both at highway speeds and when steering through a parking lot. Simply put, the Honda Odyssey makes family adventures simple and fun.
Value Choice: 2014 Volkswagen Jetta
With so many excellent new vehicles available today, finding a great family car is easy. But finding one that meets a family’s needs while remaining affordable can be more challenging. Fortunately, the 2014 Volkswagen Jetta is attractive and capable, with a refreshingly affordable price tag.
Value Choice Winner: 2014 Volkswagen Jetta.
While the Jetta is an economical choice, the compact sedan neither looks nor feels cheap. That helped it earn an average score of 28.0, narrowly edging out the larger but pricier Nissan Altima. A starting price under $20,000 and commendable fuel economy from a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine make the Volkswagen Jetta a smart choice for budget-minded families.
Technology Choice: 2015 Mazda6
Families will have to wait for cars that can fully drive themselves, leaving driver and passengers alike to relax and enjoy the ride. But the technology that will someday power such innovations is already available, even in affordable cars like the 2015 Mazda6. The striking midsize sedan offers such high-tech features as adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning, both of which can improve comfort and safety for families.
Tamara Mlynarczyk, Manager, Public Affairs, Mazda North American Operations holds GAAMA’s Technology Choice Award alongide the winning 2015 Mazda 6.
In addition to driver assistance systems, the Mazda6 i Grand Touring included in our challenge came equipped with Mazda’s i-ELOOP technology. The regenerative engine braking feature improves fuel economy by 2 mpg in both city and highway driving, helping the Mazda6 to earn an impressive overall average score of 28.1.
Green Choice: 2015 Ford Fusion Energi
Driving a vehicle powered by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel has both advantages and drawbacks. Electric vehicles (EVs) produce no tailpipe emissions. Plus, they are exceptionally quiet, and low fuel costs make them extraordinarily inexpensive to operate. But relatively short range and long charging times make EVs impractical for some drivers. For families, practicality is essential.
That’s why a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) like the 2015 Ford Fusion Energi is such a sensible choice for green-minded families on the go. Using electricity only, the Fusion Energi can travel 21 zero-emissions miles. When plug-in power is depleted, the sporty looking sedan operates like a gasoline-hybrid vehicle, achieving a still-commendable 43 mpg combined city/highway fuel economy rating. Long-range drives are no problem for the Fusion Energi: with a full tank of gas and a full charge, it can travel 620 miles before refueling. Those stats helped the midsize sedan earn an overall average score of 27.1.
Luxury Choice: 2015 Audi A3
Audi makes posh appointments and its upscale brand name accessible to more drivers with its new-for-2015 A3 sedan. Previously offered only as a wagon, the new Audi model squeezed past pricier players to score an average of 28.0 points. That’s an impressive feat, considering its price. The 2015 Audi A3 starts under $30,000, and the example Audi brought to the competition came in at just $32,395.
In fact, that’s half the price of the 2013 Luxury Choice winner, Audi’s flagship A8L sedan. But the A3 offers many of the same features, including an outstanding navigation system that uses Google Earth and Google Street View to offer superior functionality. Despite its affordable price, the A3 comes standard with leather seats, a turbocharged engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s exceptional interior build quality.
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GAAMA’s objective is to further the professionalism of the automotive media, provide a forum for newsworthy people and products connected with the automotive industry and to bring together people whose activities are related to the field of automotive journalism, public relations and related fields for the mutual benefit of all parties.
