Welcome to Hansel Auto Group

The Hansel Auto Group story is a long one. Our family has been involved in the California transportation industry from almost the very start. The Hansel Auto Group history begins with Joseph Hansel in 1851. Joseph was the first Hansel to provide transportation to others, selling horse-drawn carriages. Joseph’s son continued in this business, opening California’s first Cadillac dealership 1901.

The first Hansel Auto Group dealership in Sonoma Valley was opened by Walter Hansel in 1961. Walter was focused on much more than just selling cars. It has always been the belief of the Hansel family that giving back to the community that has supported us for so long is an important responsibility. Walter Hansel and several other local business leaders founded what would eventually become the local chapter of the United Way. Hansel Auto Group is still heavily involved in our local community.