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New SUV Review: 2007 Saturn Outlook

You've probably seen a pine tree that got damaged by drought or cold, trying hard  to make a comeback. Portions of the tree are dead - but others are vibrant and green, clearly determined to live.

GM's Saturn division is like the green parts of that tree.

Fresh spring buds reveal the life force within, from the absolutely striking Sky roadster and Aura sedan to the new Outlook crossover SUV - Saturn's largest vehicle and latest offering.

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 Posted on July 16, 2007   

Ten Things To Know About Tires

You probably know tires are made of rubber - but how much more do you know? Here's a run-through of some important tire-related terminology:

* Aspect ratio

This technical-sounding term refers to the relationship  between the width of a tire and the height of the tire's sidewall. High-performance "low profile" tires have "low aspect ratios" - meaning their sidewalls are short relative to their width. This provides extra stiffness and thus better high-speed handling and grip - but also tends to result in a firmer (and sometimes, harsh) ride. "Taller" tires tend to provide a smoother ride and better traction in snow.

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 Posted on July 16, 2007   

Sepukku For The US Auto Industry?

New cars are pretty green - hybrid or not.

Thanks to chemical exhaust scrubbers (catalytic converters), the precision of electronic fuel injection and computer-controlled engine management systems, less than 5 percent of the tailpipe exhaust of a new/late model car is other than water vapor and carbon dioxide - up till now considered by both chemistry and the law a harmless, inert gas. 

But there's the rub.

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 Posted on July 12, 2007   

New Car Review: 2007 Volvo S80

Volvos are upmarket - but not ostentatious.

Consider the S80 sedan. It competes in the same league (price-wise, features-wise, even power/performance-wise) as mid-sized BMWs, Audis and Benzes, but more discretely. Very much in the same manner that Buicks once did relative to Cadillacs. "Doctor's cars" for buyers who could certainly afford a Caddy and who wanted the same level of comfort, power and amenities - but preferred not to wear their affluence on their sleeves.

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 Posted on July 12, 2007   

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About The Author

Eric Peters is a Washington, D.C.-based, nationally-syndicated automotive columnist. He has written for The Wall Street Journal, Investors Business Daily, the Detroit Free Press and The Washington Times.

He welcomes questions and comments and can be reached at either EPeters952@yahoo.com.

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