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

Buick plans to add a crossover in 2010, a plug-in hybrid in 2011

Buick's lineup is growing--it's getting a new five-passenger crossover in 2010, with a plug-in hybrid following in 2011. The yet-to-be-named vehicle will be smaller than the Enclave and uses a different version of the platform that underpins the GMC Terrain and the Chevrolet Equinox. The move signals General Motors' renewed commitment to its venerable Buick brand, fortifying it with cutting-edge technology and fresh sheetmetal as the company tries to be competitive with four core brands.

Volvo could be heading East

Actually, it could be going absolutely anywhere a bid can be found. As we reported last week, Ford is trying desperately to unload its last remaining prestige marque – Volvo. And, as we thought, the disposal of Volvo by Ford is said to be a condition of the help that Ford, along with the other main US car makers, is begging from the US government.

JUNKER KEEPER: Federal database tracks totaled vehicles, clunkers

First, it was the hurricane-damaged used cars flooding the market. Now, it’s the clunkers turned in--and supposedly junked--as part of the federal Cars Allowance Rebate System “cash for clunkers” program. Following Hurricane Katrina, cars declared as total losses in one state were able to get clean titles in other states and were resold to unsuspecting consumers.