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Consumer Reports gets top vehicle picks mostly right

Despite the publication's uncomfortably broad definition of reliability -- it spans everything from "the engine fell out" to "the touchscreen display shows fingerprints too easily" -- automakers still clamor to get on the Consumer Reports recommended vehicle list. This year's winners cover a broad spectrum of vehicles, and for the most part, we're in agreement with the magazine's editors, with one significant exception at the top of the list. Best overall vehicle went to the Tesla Model S.

2014 Chevy Spark EV priced at $27,500

The 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV will have a $27,495 price tag when it goes on sale in California and Oregon next month, making it one of the best value options among all-electric vehicles. The full $7,500 federal tax credit brings the Spark EV cost to $19,995. California Spark EV owners may also qualify for up to $2,500 in state and local tax credits, and they’re eligible for the state's carpool lane.

Compulsory emissions laws leaked to CAR Online

By Tim Pollard Motoring Issues 23 January 2007 05:53 Every performance car, MPV and large saloon on sale today is under threat from proposed legislation limiting CO2 emissions to an average of 120g/km by 2012, CAR Online has learned. EU environment commissioner Stavros Dimas is expected to announce the shock new directive in the next few days - it's designed to force companies to meet tough targets or face big fines. CAR Online has uncovered details of the proposals before they are published.