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First sight: Volkswagen Passat (2015)

In recent years, European buyers have been switching their mid-size sedans and wagons for smaller cars, crossovers and SUVs. The Volkswagen Passat, Europe's most successful company car, has defined this market segment pretty much since it arrived back in 1973, and this latest, eighth-generation model has been designed to attempt to reverse that buying trend. When we catch up with design director Dr Klaus Bischoff at the car's unveiling, he's certainly confident that the new car represents a significant step forward.

Lexus HS250h unveiled at Detroit auto show 2009

By Tim Pollard Motor Shows 12 January 2009 13:47 Lexus showed off its latest hybrid car at this week’s Detroit auto show 2009: the new HS250h. The new combination of letters and numbers confirm this is a new additional petrol-electric hybrid to sit alongside the existing models such as the GS450h, RX450h and LS600h. It’s shorter than, but as wide as, the Lexus IS and is in the compact executive mould.

Camrys, Caddys and Civics--good-bye: Mainstream cars top stolen-vehicle report

Look out Honda and Toyota owners, your mainstream cars are hot targets for car thieves, according to LoJack's annual report. Apparently the high gasoline prices have hit everyone, including car thieves. Honda topped the list of recovered stolen vehicles, with the fuel-efficient 2000 Honda Civic being nabbed the most often for the second year in a row.