Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

Congress scales back tax break for car buyers

A proposed tax break for new-vehicle buyers is dramatically scaled back in the final version of the economic stimulus bill. Auto dealers and their allies had sought to make interest on auto loans and the sales and excise taxes on new-vehicle purchases deductible from federal taxes. Proponents say those measures are needed to boost showroom traffic and sales.

Chrysler adds sporty S trim features to the 200 sedan and convertible

Chrysler is looking to add a little sport to the Chrysler 200 sedan and convertible with the addition of the S trim line. Don't expect anything too extreme--the S package consists of some interior and exterior upgrades, and a few suspension revisions. Changes include unique 18-inch wheels with painted black pockets, a grille with an S model-only winged badge and black background headlights.

Ford reaches agreement to sell Volvo to Geely for $1.8 billion

Ford has reached an agreement to sell its Swedish brand Volvo to Chinese carmaker Geely for about $1.8 billion in a multinational sale expected to close in the third quarter of this year. The pending agreement was announced on Sunday morning, and Ford will continue to supply powertrains, stamping and other parts to Volvo after the sale. If it closes, the landmark deal delivers the premium Volvo brand--long a benchmark for automotive safety--to a Chinese firm that has ambitious plans for growth.