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Kia Rondo, 2008: The Weekly Driver Car Review

One of the tangible, unwritten tests of a new vehicle is its initial comfort. Does a car suit a driver without a lengthy technological learning curve? There’s something to be said for an efficient, straightforward, no-nonsense car that doesn’t require intense reading to operate. Welcome the 2008 Kia Rondo. It’s nothing new that a good share of drivers still scoff at car manufacturers from Korea. But all of misgivings should now be considered history. Kia offers affordable, safe vehicles with the car industry’s best warranty. I recently drove the Kia Rondo for a week while visiting Missouri, logging more than

Saturn Aura, 2009 review

The 2009 Saturn Aura XR is a spacious sedan with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission and a substantial list of standard equipment that makes it an attractive alternative to the industry best-sellers. And although I had a prejudice against Saturn as cheap, the Aura grew on me as a respectable family vehicle during my week’s test drive.

CarMax, Young Drivers Non-Profit Pick Safest Cars For Teenagers

CarMax, America’s largest used car retailer, and Driver’s Edge, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to educating young drivers, have collaborated on a list of the best vehicles for teen drivers. Each vehicle on this list is rated on affordability, style, and has at least a four-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in each of the past three years. The list, in alphabetical order by manufacturer, includes: Chevrolet Malibu (2008 only), Dodge Caliber (models with optional side airbags and ABS), Ford Fusion, Honda Civic, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Altima, Pontiac G6, Subaru Legacy, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta. Not a

Honda Fit, 2008: Weidel on Wheels

Gas mileage and price are two major selling points, and considering the cost of gas these and turbulent economy, perhaps this vehicle is just the right Fit. Pardon the pun, but there’s definitely more interest in Honda’s smallest and least expensive car.

Acura TL, 2009: The Weekly Driver Car Review

It wasn’t too many years ago $30,000 was the beginning price point for a luxury vehicle. Now, $40,000 is the standard, and that’s where the Acura TL has been perched for the past several years. The TL debuted with the 1996 model, was redesigned in 2004 and for 2009 has its third generation.

Legendary Paul Newman, Passionate Race Driver, Dies At Age 83

Paul Newman, who died Friday at age 83, was an avid auto racing enthusiast. He first became interested in motorsports (“the first thing that I ever found I had any grace in”) while training for and filming Winning, the 1969 movie.

Mazda CX-9, 2008: Belew's Car Buzz

I’ve often thought if a car can’t be made to operate more economically, it could at least be made to be safer. Japanese automakers have heard me thinking. And Mazda heard me thinking, particularly when I recently drove the CX-9 a few hundred miles during a week’s test drive.

Acura TSX, 2009: Weidel on Wheels

While generally respectful of all Honda vehicles and its upscale luxury line, a recent week behind the wheel of the 2009 Acura TSX made me questioning the current redesign. It doesn’t match some of the high-level competition in the premium compact class.

2008 Hyundai Veracruz: Weidel on Wheels

Sport Utility Vehicles

The 2008 Hyundai Veracruz falls short, but the South Korean manufacturer has set lofty goals and made significant progress in its attempt to compete with Toyota, Honda and even premium Lexus. That’s ambitious goal for a company that once produced cheap, unreliable economy cars that were the industry jokes. But those days are past; Hyundai now earns respect for nearly every vehicle it produces. Certainly it’s true with the Veracruz, a seven-passenger crossover SUV that receives high marks in practically every auto publication. There’s much to like about this well-equipped family vehicle. It combines solid looks, good performance, versatility, safety

Mazda 3S (Grand Touring), 2009: Belew’s Car Buzz

The 2009 Mazda 3 S Grand Touring compact is done right. It’s the summation of years of automotive awards, good reviews, positive ownership experiences — and thus increased sales. Add my impressions to the list of good reviews. This Mazda was the most fun, economy car I’ve driven in a long time and overall one of the best cars I have driven in recent months.

Hyundai Accent, 2008: Bill Belew’s Car Buzz

The 2008 Hyundai Accent might be one of the better economy-minded cars available. Edmunds.com compares it to the Honda Fit, Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris. I haven’t driven those cars, so I can’t compare. Overall, the entry-level Hyundai Accent seems to be a value-filled economy car ready for the daily commute grind, although, hopefully not too far of a commute.

General Motors Unveils Electric Vehicle Volt, Will Debut As 2010 Model

General Motors has unveiled the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle, the much-anticipated combination electric-gasoline that will be able to run up to 40 miles without using its small gasoline engine to produce electricity. The Volt will be driven by electricity stored in a large T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack running the length of the car. After charging for several hours, the Volt will be able to operate about 40 miles without using gasoline.

Buick Lucerne CX, 2008: Belew's Car Buzz

I have a routine when I drive/review cars each week. One step is to ask my friend, Leo Blume, a car lover, what he thinks. We took a drive in the 2008 Buick Lucerne and stopped by his house. He showed me his 1963 Buick. And, boy did he have some things to say. He contributes this review:

Infiniti M45, 2008: Weidel on Wheels

With interest in sport utility vehicles diminishing with every gasoline price increase, many upscale buyers are looking at luxury sedans as their next purchase. It’s a crowded field with many qualified cars that combine high performance with a stylish look and plenty of extras. Infiniti produces a sedan that fits the qualifications.

Aston Martin Overtakes Bugatti As World's Most Expensive Car

Move over, Bugatti. Welcome, Aston Martin to the top of the car pricelist. The soon-to-be released Aston Martin One-77 (A codename) will assume the title as the world’s most expensive car.

New Hip Trash Car In The Movies — Used Dodge Spirit

It’s likely not the kind publicity General Motors is seeking. But don’t be surprised if there’s a rush in the purchases of the defunct Dodge Spirit. Dodge Spirit? Really?