Group 1 Automotive Acquires Import Dealerships in New Jersey

HOUSTON--Group 1 Automotive, Inc. , a Fortune 500 automotive retailer, today announced it has expanded its presence in the Northeast by acquiring Marty Sussman Acura of Maple Shade, N.J., in the Greater Philadelphia market area; as well as Sussman Honda/Marty Sussman BMW and Sussman Acura of Atlantic City. The dealerships have been renamed Elite Acura, Boardwalk Honda/BMW of Atlantic City and Boardwalk Acura and are expected to generate approximately $153 million in annual revenues.

“These acquisitions expand our import brand offerings and geographic presence in the Northeast Region,” said Earl J. Hesterberg, Group 1’s president and chief executive officer. “We are pleased to enter these two fast-growing market areas and will continue to look at attractive acquisition opportunities as they present themselves.”

Year to date, Group 1 has acquired one domestic franchise and 14 import franchises, including three Nissan, two each of Toyota/Scion and Honda and a BMW franchise. These 15 franchises are expected to generate $732.1 million in estimated annual revenues which substantially completes the company’s acquisition program for 2006.

About Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

Group 1 owns 101 automotive dealerships comprised of 143 franchises, 33 brands and 30 collision service centers in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma and Texas. Through its dealerships, the company sells new and used cars and light trucks; arranges related financing, vehicle service and insurance contracts; provides maintenance and repair services; and sells replacement parts.

Group 1 Automotive can be reached on the Internet at www.group1auto.com.