Archive for: July 2008

Urban utility vehicle.

What the heck is that?

Well, that’s what Toyota unveiled in 2003 with the Scion – using a word to name their newest product that means heir or descendant.

The idea was to target 18- to 34-year olds by offering …

During consumers’ current shift from large trucks and sport utility vehicles to cars – and smaller ones at that – gas prices dominate the blame.

But another factor exists in the conscience of many Americans: pollution.

Sure, getting more miles per gallon …

When the Chevrolet Malibu was named the North American Car of the Year at the Detroit auto show at the start of 2008, some car-watchers were left scratching their head.

What was a nearly 50-year old car, a former muscle car …

Few motorists are aware, but auto industry experts say the station wagon died a quiet death in the 1990s. Mainly due to the growing popularity of the minivan, and later, the sport utility vehicle.

That’s not to say you won’t see …

Maybe it’s time for Infiniti to shy away from using only alphanumeric names.

After all, it isn’t exactly the best time for consumers looking into luxury cars. They might as well attach sexy names to the vehicles, right?

Yet Infiniti holds firm, presenting …

“Users” of Yahoo! Auto recently ranked the 2008 Toyota Yaris as their preferred vehicle.

Of five possible stars, these folks gave the Yaris a 4.5 overall score – in fact, the Yaris attained the same score in all areas, including appearance, …

It used to be that you looked at a car’s make and model, and maybe chose some trim options, paint color or transmission, and you were on your way with your shiny new car.

How far the automotive industry has progressed …

A recent CNNMoney.com report about auto theft rates offers an interesting glimpse into what thieves look for – and can help guide you if you’re in the market for a used or new car.

The report cited the 1995 Honda Civic as …

The Federal Government recently announced planned improvements to its auto crash test program for new cars and trucks, to take effect for the 2010 model year.

The plan is to expand the traditional program of grading vehicles from one to five …

In July 2008, California and Washington joined New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C., in banning the use of mobile phones with your hands while driving.

In California the law was no surprise, as it was passed several years ago …