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When Mercedes-Benz unveiled the CLS in 2003, the impact was significant. Not only was it singularly elegant, but it created a new category, that of the four-door coupe. Its success prompted many automakers, even those outside the luxury car category, to follow suit. If you want to put a figure on Mercedes-Benz's success, note that more than 170,000 units of the CLS have sold worldwide since its launch.

Would a car's ability to post your Facebook status or text message your friend make you more likely to buy it? Automakers such as Ford Motor Co., Chrysler Group LLC, and Toyota Motor Corp. are banking on it. But they might want to wait a bit before cashing the check: Consumers at the Chicago Auto Show are split on the risks and rewards of owning and using these high-tech systems.

The car tuning specialists from Novitec have rolled-out their latest line of aftermarket accessories for the new Alfa Romeo MiTo hatchback.

Honda redesigned the CR-V for the 2007 model year (which carried through the 2009 model year), adding a fairly significant new look, but keeping the four-cylinder engine and five-passenger seating. The new CR-V shaved 3 inches off its overall length than the previous 2002-06 generation. Even so, the wheelbase and interior dimensions remained virtually unchanged.

It would seem so, as new-vehicle owners are increasingly citing fun-to-drive vehicles as a top reason for remaining loyal to their current brand, according to the new 2010 Customer Retention Study released last week by J.D Power and Associates.

The positives and negatives of the new Explorer - also the sticker and invoice prices.

Under the hood of the 3i Touring and Grand Touring models is the new 2.0-liter four-cylinder Skyactiv-G that pumps out 155 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque. These models come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 6-speed automatic. Mazda estimates its gas mileage at 28 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway for an automatic sedan and 27 and 39, respectively, with the manual. Fuel economy for the hatchback is estimated at 28 and 39 with the automatic and 27 and 38 with the manual.

The Mitsubishi Eclipse, Endeavor and Galant will be killed as part of the Japanese automaker's ambitious new Jump 2013 plan that zeroes in on emerging markets and small, fuel-efficient vehicles in a major product shake-up. The three vehicles are expected to be gone from U.S. showrooms by 2013, a Mitsubishi source told Inside Line on Wednesday.

At Euro tyres, not only we offer new tyres on reasonable rates but we also provide second-hand tyres with the best restructured modifications, letting you ride your automobile run evenly on long highways.

No matter the trim, the CC's cabin is lush with high-end features and world class workmanship. It's attractive design and use of high quality materials is actually on a par with more expensive luxury sedans.

Potential buyers should remember, however, that this is not your father's Cadillac with its famous smooth and cushy ride. Its sport-based suspension results, of necessity, in a firmer quality ride. Some may find that the ride of the Performance models is just too firm. What's more, the still firmer optional sport suspension can be downright harsh. Potential buyers should bear in mind that there is a tradeoff for all that athleticism.

Most drivers will likely be pleased with the performance of the 3.0 V6, while that of the base four-cylinder is adequate but more fuel-efficient (although it can get noisy when accelerated hard). Those looking for still more oomph in a family sedan will likely find the 3.5-liter V6 up to the task.

As recently as this spring, few thought GM's initial public offering could nearly wipe out the company's debt to Uncle Sam. But that is exactly what's happening as the U.S. automobile industry is humming down Recovery Road.

The 2011 Kia Soul offers a youthful and edgy style, nimble handling, everyday practicality and versatility to the hatchback/wagon segment. It also offers a host of features, a high level of customization, a roomy interior, affordable pricing, very good fuel efficiency and a long warranty. In other words, it has an awful lot going for it.

Toyota Motor Corp.'s Lexus outsold Bayerische Motoren Werke AG's BMW and Daimler AG's Mercedes-Benz last month, helping the Japanese brand secure the top spot in U.S. luxury auto sales for the 11th straight year.