UnitedAuto Announces Executive Appointment; Robert K. Wilshaw Named Senior Vice President - Manufacturer Relations

    DETROIT--March 8, 2001--UnitedAuto Group, Inc. , a leading publicly traded automotive retailer, today announced a new executive appointment.
    Robert K. "Bob" Wilshaw has joined UnitedAuto as Senior Vice President - Manufacturer Relations. Mr. Wilshaw will report to Chairman Roger S. Penske and President Sam DiFeo, Jr. Wilshaw's appointment reinforces UnitedAuto's commitment to excellent manufacturer relations.
    In commenting on the appointment, Roger Penske stated, "We are extremely pleased to add Bob Wilshaw to our manufacturer relations team. His experience with Mercedes-Benz will support our efforts to grow this segment of our business."
    Prior to joining UnitedAuto, Mr. Wilshaw held positions at Mercedes-Benz USA, Inc. They included: Market Manager - Chicago Region, District Manager - North Central Region, and Financial Analyst, Franchise Development - North Central Region. Wilshaw attended Wake Forest University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree, received his MBA at the University of Notre Dame Graduate School of Business Administration, and earned a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from The Law School of Wayne State University.
    UnitedAuto, which has pursued a strategy based on internal growth from its existing dealerships, as well as from strategic acquisitions, operates 121 franchises in 18 states, Puerto Rico and Brazil. UnitedAuto dealerships sell new and used vehicles, and market a complete line of after-market automotive products and services.

    Statements in this press release may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements should be evaluated together with additional information about UnitedAuto's business, markets, conditions and other uncertainties which are contained in UnitedAuto's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and which are incorporated into this press release by reference.