Chrysler, Mopar hope Ram Runner kit can challenge Ford SVT Raptor

In an effort to compete with the Ford SVT Raptor off-road pickup, Chrysler and parts group Mopar have released the Ram Runner kit. The Mopar Ram Runner kit, available for owners of 2009-2011 Dodge Ram 1500 models, can be installed at home or by the dealer for a total parts cost of just less than $20,000. The Ram Runner upgraders on a budget can add kit elements individually as well.

Buick to scrap trim levels

Buick will eliminate its “CX,” “CXL” and “CXS” trim levels in the 2012 model year, opting for a few “stair-step” packages instead, one of the brand's top marketers said today. “It isn't befitting a premium brand. No other premium brand has those designations,” said Craig Bierley, Buick-GMC director of advertising and sales promotion.

Concept Car of the Week: Fiat Scia (1993)

After a successful design competition between famous Italian design houses to rework the little Cinquecento, Fiat renewed the experience two years later by giving to nine of them – including Fiat's in-house studio – a new Fiat Punto as a base to let their creative juices flow. The results ranged from being simply forgettable (Zagato Monomille), ridiculously daft (Boneschi Doblone) or just plain ugly (Giannini Punto 4x4 TL), but one of the concepts stood out from the flock for being brilliantly bold. This was the Fiat Scia, presented to the public at the 1993 Turin Auto Show.