Mazda's rotary engine stalled, not forgotten

Development of the next-generation rotary engine from Mazda Motor Corp., first unveiled three years ago, is making slow progress despite missing emissions targets. A top Mazda powertrain executive said today that the 1.6-liter rotary engine, called the 16X, is about 30 percent more fuel-efficient than the current rotary engine used in the RX-8 sporty car. In fact, the 16X so far performs slightly better than Mazda's standard two-liter gasoline engine, said Mitsuo Hitomi, general manager of the Japanese carmaker's powertrain division.

2012 Toyota Camry: Quieter, more upscale and easier on gasoline

How best to describe the redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry? Here are the basics: The 2012 Camry has more horsepower yet gets better fuel economy; a repackaged interior is quieter, covered in expensive-looking materials and has more room for passengers, and it's all wrapped in restyled sheetmetal that won't make an enthusiast's heart flutter but won't offend the average car buyer, either. The new Camry--the brand's flagship that has been the top-selling car in the United States for the past nine years--is also a prime opportunity for Toyota to prove to car buyers that it has put the controversy over claims of unintended acceleration and recalls behind it.

Volvo pricing deals at Costco

There's more to your Costco membership than piling bulk paper towels on a flat-bed cart and filling up on free food samples. Through July 31, registered Costco members can get deals on all 2013 and 2014 Volvos. Volvo isn't the first major automaker to offer deals to registered members of the bulk-sales retailer via the Costco Auto Program.