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Report: New-vehicle purchase price on the rise

The average purchase price of a new car is on the rise, according to a recent report from automotive analysts at truecar.com. The average transaction price for passenger cars and trucks in the United States was $31,087 last month, up $339 from March 2012. Transaction price, or the out-the-door price, includes taxes, titles and fees.

New Vauxhall Astra Roadster preview

Rendering of the Vauxhall Astra Roadster With the new Vauxhall Astra starting to be pushed by Vauxhall ahead of its official launch at Frankfurt in September, thoughts are now turning to what derivatives of the new Astra are to come. Vauxhall are already committed to the three door hatchback and the estate as the follow up after the launch, but an obvious contender is an open-topped Astra. And if these renderings are to be believed it will be a bit of a show-stopper.

GM, Ford roll out protection plans for car buyers

General Motors is following Hyundai and Ford in offering protection for car buyers who lose their jobs. A plan announced Tuesday morning called Total Confidence offers up to nine payments of up to $500 each if a car buyer loses his or her job in the first 24 months after the purchase. The plan covers loans and leases.