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By Bob Pool
Initially skeptical, they find they like the cars' thriftiness and even roominess, and say their customers do too.
By Ken Bensinger
GM executives acknowledge that the $25 billion the industry is seeking in federal loan guarantees would help subsidize the hybrid car's development and production.
General Motors Corp. lifted the cover off the production version of its Volt extended-range electric car today.
By Elizabeth Douglass
With refineries down in the Gulf of Mexico, prices go as high as $5 a gallon at some pumps in the Midwest and East. The jump is expected to be short-lived, however.
Stars and corporate dollars help raise $3.5 million for the Audi Best Buddies Challenge -- a 100-mile bike ride from Carmel to Hearst castle last week.
Rumble Seat
By DAN NEIL
The novel method used to treat its exhaust makes this SUV a highway whiz.
As of today, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched a database of serious accidents involving possible product or equipment failure. That information, known as Early Warning data, has been in use by NHTSA for five years but until today was not available to the public.
Here is a list of my top five redneck baby-daddy cars. Please suggest your own, and we'll make sure to forward a definitive list to Alaska. -- Dan Neil
The latest supercar to hit American streets is the Gumpert Apollo, a genuine contender for one of the fastest cars in the world.
COLUMN ONE
By Ken Bensinger
With energy crisis on full bore, fuel-efficient cars are scarce. But a new breed of driver is stretching what you can squeeze out of a tank.
Hear that? It's the sound of an underwhelmed army of car geeks, trying to hide their disappointment about the looks of the long-awaited production Chevrolet Volt.
Just in time for back-to-school, car dealers are offering national cash-back deals on cars, minivans and SUVs both big and small. Here's a look at the 2008 models that help pay for themselves with cash rebates.
The car pictured here is still officially a concept vehicle and will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next month. But with production happening so soon, the streetable model shouldn't differ that much, if at all.
Eric McCormack of Will & Grace fame puts the Porsche Boxster he got from the network up on ebay. Proceeds will benefit Project Angel Food.
Q & A
By Ken Bensinger and Martin Zimmerman
After 37 years at Toyota Motor Corp., during which time he rose to the top job in North America, James E. Press shocked the car world by jumping to Chrysler last year.
AUTOS
By Ken Bensinger
Ford says August sales fell 26% from a year earlier. Toyota reports a 9.4% decline. Pickups and SUVs continue to depress results.
Remember that Palo Alto Toyota dealer we told you about last week who was taking $500 deposits for a plug-in hybrid that's not on the market yet?
Well, Toyota got wind of it and basically said: "Cut it out."
Don't judge them by their wheels... The inside scoop on what the four Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates drive.
HOW I MADE IT
By Ken Bensinger
The gig: Chief executive of Conant Auto Retail Group, which manages eight car dealerships and is based in Newport Beach. Majority owner of all eight dealerships, including Norm Reeves Honda in Cerritos, the top-volume Honda store in the country and, by most accounts, the world. Combined, the Conant dealerships sell about 25,000 vehicles a year. Conant Auto Retail Group has about 900 employees.
By DAN NEIL
Despite evolution, the 001 is recognizably a Porsche in the transcendent gestalt of the thing.
OBITUARY
By Jim Peltz
The racer, who was raised in Santa Monica, won the F1 championship for Ferrari in 1961 and was a three-time winner at both Le Mans and Sebring. He never suffered a serious injury.
Rumble Seat
By DAN NEIL
The novel method used to treat its exhaust makes this SUV a highway whiz.
By DAN NEIL
The best subcompact on the market is slightly larger, vastly stiffer, noticeably more quiet and comfortable, and every bit as dorky-looking as the previous edition. But what a view from the cockpit.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Volkswagen often invokes the climes and cultures of North Africa for its products' names: Toureg -- the name of VW's goodly sized off-roader -- is borrowed from the aboriginal people of the Sahel. Scirocco is a withering desert wind. This is a curious practice since the Germans had a decidedly mixed record in North Africa.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The luxury behemoth is beautifully constructed, exquisitely appointed, heroically engineered — and drives like an excellent BMW sedan with an elephant on its back.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
A pair of evenly matched super-luxury sports cars have distinctly different personalities.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Europe's Car of the Year is fun to own and drive -- not least because of its fuel economy.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Where are the hot-cool small cars, the drive-all-night cars, the panties-on-the-mirror cars? Where they've always been: In Europe. Here's a look at two of them: The Alfa Romeo MiTo and the Fiat 500.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The total family package is high-functioning and deserves a good home.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
And it's solid and safe, with charisma to boot.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Thanks to the A4, a troubled Audi was recharged in the '90s. This time the brand doesn't need saving, but the sedan comes back looking like a hero anyway.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
A rejiggered product from Down Under, the G8 tries hard to please. Just don't compare it to the BMW 5-series.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The popular crossover has lost the boxiness and gained a few inches. In other words, there's more space for your legs, plus the skis, bikes or kids.
By Dan Neil
As a reborn pony car, the fuel-inefficient Challenger is a retro stallion
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The GM import is as entertaining and nimble as its German cousin, the Opel Astra.
RUMBLE SEAT: ACURA TSX
By Dan Neil
The sedan has the requisite sparkle and performance, but feels like a luxury car wrapped around an economy powertrain.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The best-selling small SUV in Europe vrooms to American shores.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The new luxury sedan has all the sparkle and power you'd expect. If they could just do something about that grille.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The 200-mph supercar, basically a Porsche Motorsport version of the 911 Turbo, is all the scarier for its effortless ways.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The Murano's new front looks more aggressive, but not much has changed on the road.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The 135i packs a lot of oomph into its little body, but those looks . . .
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The little car that could grows out but, whew, not up with the Clubman.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
In looks, ride, even in sound, a Ford Mustang edition pays proper homage to a legend.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The eight-speed IS-F brings swift splendor to the high-performance luxury club.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The new Audi TT is a bolder, sleeker version of its old self. Yes, still the designer's dream car.
By John Clor
In the midst of rising gas prices, General Motors VP Brent Dewar introduces the 2009 GMC Sierra hybrid to the heartland.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Computer-like precision kind of takes the fun out of it.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
A sneak peek shows the truck-nugget tackles today's big issues: driveability, fuel efficiency, space.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is still rowdy enough to delight true believers. Yet nuance is part of the story in '08.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Infiniti's feisty little hatchback protects car and driver with its lane sensors and AVM cameras.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The Tahoe Hybrid is smart, smooth and strong, but it's a lot of vehicle for a little environmental progress.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Mercedes GL320 CDI is just fine, but it's another SUV in a world that should be thinking green.
RUMBLE SEAT/DAN NEIL
By DAN NEIL
From stem to stern, Audi's S5 Coupe is one smooth operator, all refinement and lubriciousness. Get it on the highway, and it moves like greased lightning.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Impreza gets bigger and blander -- not exactly the way to lure the mainstream.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Plagued by reliability issues, the company is doing damage control with its new C-class.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The Chrysler Town & Country Limited -- quick, comfortable and commodious -- is a patriarch among minivans.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
With the capacious Enclave CXL crossover, Buick seeks to assert its premium-brand cred.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Overindulgence done right, Mercedes-Benz's CL63 is luxe lightning.
THE WAITLIST
By Dan Neil
If you didn't sign up in 2004, you're outta luck.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The Accord EX-L's quieter, safer, more middle-of-the road. Just like its target audience.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Upgrades inside and out give the coupe a more refined feel.
By Dan Neil
In Germany, automakers are in fierce competition to come up with the most jaw-dropping shrines. Car-loving travelers, come peek under the hood.
RUMBLE SEAT / DAN NEIL
DAN NEIL
Porsche's 911 Turbo for 2007, the class of its class, simply laughs at lag.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
With a nifty and satisfying sport-utility like this in its portfolio, the automaker may save itself yet.
RUMBLE SEAT DAN NEIL
By Dan Neil
No question, there's a lot of bunny for the buck here. VW's re-engineered Rabbit is agile, sturdy and quite a catch.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Chrysler's '08 Sebring Convertible has a nifty roof mechanism. But things go down quickly from there.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The C30 could mark the emergence of a species: Volvo rockinus.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
The classy automaker goes ultra-sassy with a supercar for grown-ups.
RUMBLE SEAT
DAN NEIL
Ford's new offering is quite a looker, and much more affordable than the luxury brand.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Looks aside, there's plenty to praise in the 2008 Scion xB -- more fun, more substance, more room inside. And isn't beauty an inner glow?
RUMBLE SEAT / DAN NEIL
DAN NEIL
Pumped up and powerful, this Mercedes brings a racy pedigree to the street.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The 2007 Tundra competes in the large pickup market with all the right gadgets
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Jeep Wrangler takes a civilized turn from its wilderness legacy.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Hyundai's Veracruz has styling and room to spare. (Children are optional.)
RUMBLE SEAT
by Dan Neil
Looks hot, drives great, comfy in any weather. It's hard not to like BMW's new convertible.
RUMBLE SEAT
Dan Neil
The Smart Fortwo is more than a little fun, but its tiny size offers slight advantage stateside.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
This mega-Lexus parallel parks itself and detects if a driver's nodding off. It has everything, except, perhaps, the fun factor.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Fully tricked out, the S8 is a wicked sound machine. Go ahead, crank up `Radar Love.'
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Lotus, Porsche flaunt their latest European power plays: street legal, if not streetwise.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Kia's seven-seater Rondo is compact, practical and, well, restful. Pile in the family and go celebrate thriftiness.
RUMBLE SEAT
Dan Neil
Ferrari's new 2007 599 GTB Fiorano gives the laws of physics a run for their money. Newton would approve.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Stylish, speedy, secure. Volvo's S80 runs easily with the BMW-Lexus pack.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
If your house seems too small, you can always move into the Bentley Arnage T. But you may have an even bigger mortgage.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Cute? Yep, as a bug. But the carmaker skimped too much with its subcompact Yaris.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
A new automatic transmission makes Maserati's Q-ship easier to drive. But is it easier to love?
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The '08 LR2 has genteel charm, off-the-charts handling -- and plenty of star power.
RUMBLE SEAT
Dan Neil
Great mileage, big power, cleaned-up emissions. Only problem with Mercedes' E320 Bluetec diesel is you can't get it in California. Yet.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
Despite the price, BMWs remain hugely popular. The new 335i Coupe, with a seriously great turbocharged engine and fine interior, demonstrates why.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The revamped Escape hybrid gives Ford a much-needed victory. Perfect? No. Revitalizing? Definitely.
RUMBLE SEAT
Dan Neil
Sleek and slithery, the Jaguar XKR is a quicker breed of cat.
RUMBLE SEAT
By Dan Neil
The road to a certain enlightenment could begin with Nissan's Versa or Chevy's Aveo. Imagine: Contentment in less car than you can afford.
RUMBLE SEAT
By DAN NEIL
Like a Trojan horse, Camry sneaks gas-saving radicalism into a trusted American staple.
By Dan Neil
A hot-rodded Prius hybrid can get extraordinary mileage from a gallon of gas--even in stop-and-go L.A. Is triple-digit mileage just around the bend?
BEHIND THE WHEEL
Paul Dean
[This review appeared in the Los Angeles Times on September 21, 1990. Due to rising gas prices and recent interest in the brand, we have temporarily republished it on Latimes.com. For the latest car reviews, check out our Rumble Seat story gallery as well as our Autos A-Z pages.]
By Ken Bensinger
GM executives acknowledge that the $25 billion the industry is seeking in federal loan guarantees would help subsidize the hybrid car's development and production.
General Motors Corp. lifted the cover off the production version of its Volt extended-range electric car today.
By Bob Pool
Initially skeptical, they find they like the cars' thriftiness and even roominess, and say their customers do too.
The latest supercar to hit American streets is the Gumpert Apollo, a genuine contender for one of the fastest cars in the world.
COLUMN ONE
By Ken Bensinger
With energy crisis on full bore, fuel-efficient cars are scarce. But a new breed of driver is stretching what you can squeeze out of a tank.
Hear that? It's the sound of an underwhelmed army of car geeks, trying to hide their disappointment about the looks of the long-awaited production Chevrolet Volt.
The car pictured here is still officially a concept vehicle and will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show next month. But with production happening so soon, the streetable model shouldn't differ that much, if at all.
Q & A
By Ken Bensinger and Martin Zimmerman
After 37 years at Toyota Motor Corp., during which time he rose to the top job in North America, James E. Press shocked the car world by jumping to Chrysler last year.
AUTOS
By Ken Bensinger
Ford says August sales fell 26% from a year earlier. Toyota reports a 9.4% decline. Pickups and SUVs continue to depress results.
INSURANCE
By Marc Lifsher
Commissioner Steve Poizner releases proposed regulations. The plan is considered to be more accurate, and it would give a financial incentive to California motorists to drive less.
Raquel Welch, Barbara Eden and other beauties are honored in the "Trophy Queens" exhibit opening today at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum.
Automotive information site Edmunds.com has compiled a list of what it considers the five best 3-year-old and 1-year-old small cars.
The good folks at KBB perform a regular survey, called Brand Watch, that measures consumer perception of exterior and interior designs. Here are the latest results.
Hyundai said this week that it would present a hybrid-electric version of its Sonata sedan at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
The Down Under discovery was first reported by Sports Car Market magazine, though the location is being kept secret, as is the identity of the collector. But photos that accompanied the article documented a cache of cars that probably ranks as one of the bigger finds of vintage metal in recent years.
AUTOS
By Martin Zimmerman
Chrysler and three lead wheel weight makers agree to the phaseout in a settlement of a suit brought by an environmental group, which contended the car parts threatened drinking water.
From the Associated Press
The insurance industry gives top scores to the Ford Escape, VW Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander and Nissan Rogue.
From the Associated Press
More commuters use electric bikes to take some sweat out of cycling, relieve pain at the pump
By DAN NEIL
Rare cars like the 1927 Bugatti Type 35B resurface as prized collections go to auction.
As gasoline prices were hitting record levels in June, Americans were hitting the brakes.
From the Associated Press
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) _ Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman Tom LaSorda said Wednesday his company will invest $1.8 billion to expand a Detroit assembly plant and retool it to make a new car-based sport utility vehicle.
From the Associated Press
TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) _ A top Honda Motor Co. executive said Wednesday the company's new gas-electric hybrid will be priced lower than the Toyota Prius, its prime competitor.
This fall, GM will introduce XFE versions (as in "xtra fuel economy") of its full-size Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks and the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon sport utility vehicles.
From the Associated Press
The stinky, steaming air that escapes from a car's tailpipe could be an answer to using less gas.
By DAVE CARPENTER
CHICAGO (AP) _ Just when motorists were starting to adjust to exorbitant gas prices, they face the prospect of much higher costs, fewer choices and a dearth of financing options if they want to lease their next car.
AUTOS
By Ken Bensinger and Martin Zimmerman
U.S. sales fall 13% in July. Companies blame pickup trucks, SUVs and tighter credit. GM reports a huge quarterly loss.
TOKYO -- Toyota lowered its global vehicle sales plan for this year to 9.5 million vehicles -- down from 9.85 million -- as the sluggish North American market slows the Japanese automaker's momentum.
AUTOS
By Ken Bensinger
Chrysler will stop offering the plans through its finance arm because truck and SUV resale values have plummeted.
COLUMN ONE
By Elizabeth Douglass
Thomas Weller has been on a mission to aid stranded motorists since 1966. But gas prices have cut into his good deeds.
AUTOS
By Ken Bensinger
As truck and SUV sales fall, CEO Alan Mulally says it will move toward producing smaller, more fuel-efficient cars.
By Ken Bensinger
Leading at the halfway mark, the automaker appears likely to wrest the 2008 global trophy from General Motors.
By Ken Bensinger
Information collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration could soon be released to the public.
INSURANCE
By Marc Lifsher
A plan that charges motorists based on miles driven could cut fuel use, pollution and traffic as well as lower premiums, say backers. Opponents worry about privacy issues.
AUTOS
By Ken Bensinger
The cash-strapped automaker, facing bankruptcy rumors, says it will also suspend its dividend to increase liquidity. It expects to post a large loss in the 2nd quarter.
Steve Hymon
Also: Updates on Metro's proposed sales tax hike for mass transit.
By Ken Bensinger
The industry's economic model gets turned on its head as more customers reject gas-guzzlers.
By Alana Semuels
Detroit and ad agencies are trying to come up with ways to pare down inventories of the now-unpopular vehicles.
COLUMN ONE
By Ashraf Khalil
A tricked-out muscle car on the streets of Baghdad can turn heads, tempt carjackers or anger fundamentalists. What's a gear head to do? Floor it.
Tesla was on its way to New Mexico before state leaders brokered a deal.
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PHOTO GALLERY
Just in time for back-to-school, car dealers are offering national cash-back deals on cars, minivans and SUVs both big and small. Here's a look at the 2008 models that help pay for themselves with cash rebates.
PHOTO GALLERY
GM's Motorama exhibit at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance included some of the company's historic show cars and one "Parade of Progress" Futurliner, one of the big red buses that carried GM's science and technology shows to small-town America in the 1950s.
PHOTO GALLERY
The 2009 Honda Fit is so wanted that it's showing up at dealerships now, a month ahead of schedule. Here's a look at five other cars to watch out for in the '09 model year.
PHOTO GALLERY
The best subcompact on the market is slightly larger, vastly stiffer, noticeably more quiet and comfortable, and every bit as dorky-looking as the previous edition. But what a view from the cockpit.
PHOTO GALLERY
If you're shopping for a vehicle with a big rebate in this summer of astronomical gas prices, check out a gas-guzzling car, truck or SUV. But if you're looking for smaller car with a decent MPG rating, rebates are hard to find. But here are some gas-efficient cars available with national cash-back deals.
PHOTO GALLERY
On a weekend when dozens of extraordinary cars will change hands for tens of millions of dollars at five major auctions, the Williamson auction is the marquee event.
PHOTO GALLERY
Fractionally smaller than the Honda CR-V, the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4, the Tiguan is an urban-friendly, ski resort-capable wee truck with optional all-wheel drive, backed up by VW's great 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.
PHOTO GALLERY
By Joni Gray
Teens in the L.A. area like older car models, particularly when cash is tight. This informal survey of local teens reflects the taste of a new generation of drivers -- and possibly the next generation of classic cars.
Teens in the L.A. area like older car models, particularly when cash is tight. This informal survey of local teens reflects the taste of a new generation of drivers -- and possibly the next generation of classic cars.
PHOTO GALLERY
The luxury behemoth is beautifully constructed, exquisitely appointed, heroically engineered — and drives like an excellent BMW sedan with an elephant on its back.
PHOTO GALLERY
The BMW X6 rates the lowest score on Dan Neil's Index of Usefulness in recent memory. What else made the list?
PHOTO GALLERY
Low mileage, high incentives. Chrysler and cash rule through July.
Just in time for back to school, Chrysler dominates in cash-back deals on minivans, trucks, SUVs (and one sedan!) through July 31.
Just in time for back to school, Chrysler dominates in cash-back deals on minivans, trucks, SUVs (and one sedan!) through July 31.
PHOTO GALLERY
PHOTO GALLERY
The National Insurance Crime Bureau's (NICB) annual report of the top 10 reported stolen cars in the country and the state was just released. Here's a look at the top 10 vehicles reported stolen from California neighborhoods in 2007.
PHOTO GALLERY
If you are planning a new car purchase and aren't in a big hurry, this gallery of new fuel-friendly cars can help. Most haven't been formally "announced," but we have it good authority that they are on their way within a year's time.
PHOTO GALLERY
Europe's Car of the Year is fun to own and drive -- not least because of its fuel economy.
PHOTO GALLERY
The Alfa Romeo MiTo is a gorgeous, fun, fuel-efficient $22,000 import, packaged in Italian style and grace.
PHOTO GALLERY
The Vespa-like Genuine Scooter's light, nimble Buddy is a cute crowd-pleaser.
PHOTO GALLERY
Shelling out for a hybrid isn't the only solution to saving money at the pump and helping the environment. J.D. Power and Associates have analyzed the estimated EPA fuel economy along with the EPA SmartWay scores, which calculates air pollution and greenhouse gas, to find the most fuel-efficient (non-hybrid) small cars with automatic transmission.
PHOTO GALLERY
California’s two new wireless telephone laws take effect on July 1. Are you and your vehicle ready?
PHOTO GALLERY
Norway-based Think plans to sell its City electric car in the U.S. in 2009 and has an eye toward the Southern California market.
PHOTO GALLERY
Since its arrival in May, the VW Tiguan has taken over the No. 1 position usually dominated by the company's popular Beetle, making the compact crossover the ultimate in estrogen-based car buying.
PHOTO GALLERY
Thanks to the A4, a troubled Audi was recharged in the '90s. This time the brand doesn't need saving, but the sedan comes back looking like a hero anyway.
PHOTO GALLERY
A rejiggered product from Down Under, the G8 tries hard to please. Just don't compare it to the BMW 5-series.
PHOTO GALLERY
The popular crossover has lost the boxiness and gained a few inches. In other words, there's more space for your legs, plus the skis, bikes or kids.
PHOTO GALLERY
As gasoline prices soar, scooter sales are booming. From mini to maxi, they'll take you from the corner grocery to the freeway (and some of these cycles get more than 100 miles per gallon).
PHOTO GALLERY
Just in time for summer travel, Kelley Blue Book has provided a list of the top 10 new vehicles best suited for road trips.
PHOTO GALLERY
Crazy-high cash rebates for May -- $4,000 to $5,500
To help L.A. area dealerships clear the way for their summer sales events, manufacturers are slapping huge cash incentives on some 2007 models still in inventory. Most of these models have higher gas mileage ratings or simply don’t sell well in Southern California. These offers expire June 2, 2008.
To help L.A. area dealerships clear the way for their summer sales events, manufacturers are slapping huge cash incentives on some 2007 models still in inventory. Most of these models have higher gas mileage ratings or simply don’t sell well in Southern California. These offers expire June 2, 2008.
PHOTO GALLERY
This week’s Wednesday night program will feature a Ford first – the reveal of a new model via the "American Idol" contestants.
PHOTO GALLERY
As a reborn pony car, the fuel-inefficient Challenger is a retro stallion.
PHOTO GALLERY
The new Indian is in its last phase of testing for the new Chief, which will be made in four different versions -- Standard, Deluxe, Roadmaster and Vintage -- and range in price from $30,999 to $35,499.
PHOTO GALLERY
So ahead of its time, the New Beetle hit the streets in 1998 -- ushering in an era of retro-themed heritage designs like what's now found on the Dodge Challenger and the Mini Cooper.
PHOTO GALLERY
It's been in the works for years, but the Harley-Davidson Museum is finally set to throw its doors open to the public with a grand opening celebration July 12.
PHOTO GALLERY
The GM import is as entertaining and nimble as its German cousin, the Opel Astra.
PHOTO GALLERY
Toyota has just launched the 2009 Corolla, the 10th generation of what has become the all-time bestselling car in the world. More than 7 million have been sold in the U.S., and total worldwide sales have surpassed 30 million.
PHOTO GALLERY
Truck and SUV purchases plummet 17.4% in April, compared with April 2007, while passenger autos -- which cost less to fuel -- post a 5.2% gain.
PHOTO GALLERY
Judging sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs based on things like fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology and, of course, the “cool factor,” the editors at Kelley Blue Book have released their top 10 list of low-cost, high-mileage rides that won't get you laughed out of the valet line.
PHOTO GALLERY
The Acura TSX is packed with all the expected power and sparkle, but it lacks charisma.
PHOTO GALLERY
The May 3 event spotlights the sport's history and, yes, some of its legends.
PHOTO GALLERY
A hit list of this year's summer movies with cars, bikes and other imagined vehicles in the supporting cast.
PHOTO GALLERY
The best-selling small SUV in Europe vrooms to American shores.
PHOTO GALLERY
A marvel of power and speed, the all-wheel-drive Nissan GT-R coupe is so safe and serene that it's curiously lacking in thrills.
PHOTO GALLERY
Phil Skinner, editor of Kelley Blue Book's "Early Model Values Guide" and a classic car expert, identifies a category on the rise: 1970s muscle cars.
PHOTO GALLERY
The new luxury sedan has all the sparkle and power you'd expect. If they could just do something about that grille.
PHOTO GALLERY
California companies like Tesla Motors Inc. and Fisker Automotive have big plans for the electric car -- despite the many potholes that lie ahead.
PHOTO GALLERY
The 200-mph supercar, basically a Porsche Motorsport version of the 911 Turbo, is all the scarier for its effortless ways.
PHOTO GALLERY
What do thieves steal? Probably not what we'd steal if we were forced to. According to the NICB, the average value of each stolen car is $6,649. Rather than looking for luxury, thieves are looking for practicality. They want cars they can strip easily to sell for parts. Which is why many of the cars on this list are more than 10 years old.
PHOTO GALLERY
The last U.S. automotive press debut of the year showcased sporty rides like Maserati's GranTurismo S and redesigned versions of established cars, including the Nissan Maxima and Honda Fit.
PHOTO GALLERY
Concept cars that promised better things to come from lesser-brand players, such as Kia's Koup, seemed to dominate the New York stage.
PHOTO GALLERY
The Murano's new front looks more aggressive, but not much has changed on the road.
PHOTO GALLERY
GM brings a retro 'coupe utility' vehicle to the New York auto show that looks a lot like a long-lost classic.
PHOTO GALLERY
The 135i packs a lot of oomph into its little body, but those looks . . .
PHOTO GALLERY
A small California company is bringing back a bike popular a century ago.
PHOTO GALLERY
Italian job: Fiat Group's Alfa Romeo company plans to sell the Alfa 8C Competizione in the United States, before eventually adding in new models such as the Spider and Brera. Alfa Romeo ceased U.S. sales in 1995.
PHOTO GALLERY
From Chrysler's PT Cruiser and 300 to the Dodge Durango and Jeep Wrangler, here's a look at some of Chrysler LLC's more popular models.
PHOTO GALLERY
Beau Boeckmann of Galpin Auto Sports in Van Nuys and one of the stars of MTV's "Pimp My Ride" knows a few things about tricking out cars.
PHOTO GALLERY
Taking the Mini Cooper to the max: The little car that could grows out but, whew, not up with the Clubman.
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O'Gara Coach Co. of Beverly Hills gets kid-glove treatment from the home office.
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Fiat to Koenigsegg: Which of these European cars would you like to see on Los Angeles streets?
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Not too big, not too small, Hyundai's Elantra finds its spot as a fairly guilt-free economy ride.
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The single-cylinder, street-specific Duke was born to accelerate and brake hard. But is it an aristocrat through and through?
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From a sporty 2005 MINI Cooper to a family-friendly 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV, here's a list of the best bets on the used car lots.
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From Steve McQueen and James Dean to McDreamy, these actors all enjoy the thrill of the road.
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In looks, ride, even in sound, a Ford Mustang edition pays proper homage to a legend.
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Aside from a remake of Steve McQueen’s Bullitt, Ford will also release this Shelby GT500KR and several other limited-editions for 2008.
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General Motors Corp. expects to have the new Camaro in dealer showrooms during the first quarter of 2009.
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The Chevy Camaro concepts seen so far have strong echoes of the 1969 model. Here's a look at that version, plus other variations of the car.
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The eight-speed IS-F brings swift splendor to the high-performance luxury club.
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Crossovers are popular for the after-school crowd, but SUVs, minivans and sedans are still an option.
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The new Audi TT is a bolder, sleeker version of its old self. Yes, still the designer's dream car.
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Movie stars, cars -- two of SoCal's favorite things. Take a look at who has driven what over the years.
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The 411 on the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, which debuted at the Chicago Auto Show.
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The Chicago auto show bills itself as the “largest auto show in the country” primarily based on the square footage of its car exhibits. Traditionally, auto makers use the show to announce trucks, SUVs and muscle cars to the automotive press, capitalizing on the show's “Heartland” location. Now, more than ever, selling these vehicles is tough in a nation struggling with rising gasoline prices.
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Computer-like precision kind of takes the fun out of it.
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Roland Sands' La Palma design studio turns 450-cc dirt bikes like the Honda CRF into his new Super Singles.
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George Clooney takes a spin on a replica 1918 Indian, Tom Cruise buys a special Ducati, and Jesse James just builds his own.
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Exotic cars rentals, bike tours and more that will get your blood boiling over the long weekend.
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The Japanese company, which announced it will cease U.S. production, helped the SUV gain traction.
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A sneak peek shows the truck-nugget tackles today's big issues: driveability, fuel efficiency, space.
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They're coming back, but despite their practicality, carmakers are avoiding the stigma the W-word carries.
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Harley's 2008 softail merges post-war nostalgia with ultra-modern cool.
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The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is still rowdy enough to delight true believers. Yet nuance is part of the story in '08.
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Detroit’s yearly auto extravaganza provides the ideal backdrop for the major car companies to show off their most innovative new design concepts. Although these showpieces may never actually see an assembly line, their form and function reflect things to come in the automaker’s product plans.
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When a model debut is deemed a “production” car, this means the vehicle will be manufactured and sold in the U.S. within the next year or two. You can look for most of these cars and trucks on the street between March and September of this year, though many will be badged as 2009 models.
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Popular singers like Mary J. Blige, along with big-name fashion designers and actors, provide a glamorous backdrop for auto makers' best new product offerings.
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This feisty little hatchback brings futuristic technology to a small, luxurious package.
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Three-wheelers draw more and more interest. These new models demonstrate why.
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Smart Fortwo tops the high-tech and high-end autos Times readers liked the best.
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The Tahoe Hybrid is smart, smooth and strong, but it's a lot of vehicle for a little environmental progress.
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The company's middleweight bike is ready for a wild time; it's no commuter.
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The new XC70 is abeautifully made, exquisitely detailed car, but man is it heavy.
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With spirited design, Cadillac's '08 CTS cuts past BMW, Lexus and the other luxury sports.
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These optional high-tech features once out of most parents’ price range have become a popular attempt at a little peace and quiet.
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Cycle World International Motorcycle Shows takes over Long Beach Convention Center December 7 to 9.
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A crew of mostly American and European riders travel on BMW and Chinese motorcyles across China's Silk Road.
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Mercedes GL320 CDI is just fine, but it's another SUV in a world that should be thinking green.
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These well-upholstered auto execs almost outperform the cars at the L.A. Auto Show.
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The 2007 L.A. Auto Show at the L.A. Convention Center, November 16-25.
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The Petersen exhibit offers a brisk summary of lowriding from its beginnings in East L.A., through the '60s and '70s.
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AltCar Expo featuring cars and cycles was held in the Barker Hanger at Santa Monica Airport.
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Hey, did you hear the one about Jay Leno and his eco-friendly Burbank garage?
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Motorcycle makers unveil their 2008 lineup, with a focus on speed and style.
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The 2007 Tokyo Motor Show featured some of the most innovative and unusual concept cars of any international car show.
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Susan Carpenter suggests four "beginners" bikes to consider if you're new to motorcycling.
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Car buyers choose their top 10 new car technologies according to a J.D. Power report on car buyers.
