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Capitol Hill notebook: Obama defends autos, Akerson defends the Chevrolet Volt

Less than 10 hours after President Barack Obama wrapped up his third State of the Union address, manufacturing and automobiles continued to command the spotlight on Wednesday in Washington. The day began with General Motors CEO Dan Akerson defending the Chevrolet Volt before a U.S. House committee hearing, saying he didn't want it to become a "political punching bag," according to testimony provided by the company.

Honda Boosts Civic Tourer Appeal

HONDA’S new Civic Tourer’s arrival in the showrooms is just around the corner, and already the Japanese car maker is making its compact family wagon more affordable. Prospective buyers are to be tempted by a range of attractive finance offers – including low monthly payments and zero percent APR – and Honda’s new optional fixed-price five-year aftercare package. In addition to the competitive monthly payment plans, Honda’s new fixed-price comprehensive aftercare package includes five years’ servicing, five years’ warranty and five years’ roadside assist.

2014 Nissan Micra Limited Edition launched

The Nissan Micra Limited Edition (pictured) comes in a choice of three colours with contrast roof The Nissan Micra was given a facelift last year to try and remove perceptions of cost-cutting by Nissan after they took production of the Micra off to India, and now we get a titivation of that facelift with the Nissan Micra Limited Edition. But instead of doing what most car makers do, which is adding extra spec for less than it would cost to option it, Nissan’s idea of a special edition is to give it some unique cosmetics. So the Micra Limited Edition comes in a choice of three colour schemes with a contrast roof and mirrors - Pacific Blue with a White roof and mirrors, Shiraz Red with a Black roof and mirrors and Alabaster White with a Red roof and mirrors.