Automakers scrap diesel plans

Mainstream carmakers have put the brakes on nine diesel-powered vehicles that had been scheduled for 2010. Honda, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Nissan and Toyota have halted diesel programs because of spiraling costs and other problems. Financial problems halted the programs at some companies.

Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports coupe unveiled at 2012 Detroit show

After a series of leaks and early teasers, the wraps have finally come off the new Lexus LF-LC hybrid sports car concept here in Detroit. It's a glamorous 2+2, showing how Toyota's Calty design studio in California imagines a new sports car for the brand. However, all the indications at the 2012 NAIAS show are that it's more an ideas car - and a hint of future styling trends - more than a model bound for a Lexus showroom near you.

Fiat 500L gets a helping hand from P Diddy (video)

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs gives Fiat a helping hand with the 500L Fiat has done well to convince a trendy section of American car buyers that the Fiat 500 is a funky, cute and desirable runaround – especially if you live in the city. But having effectively put all their eggs in the 500 basket, they have the problem of convincing sceptical US car buyers that the much bigger Fiat 500L is an appealing – and much more practical – proposition for families. So Fiat has enlisted Sean Combs (P Diddy, Puff Daddy, Diddy or whatever moniker he’s using this week) to give the Fiat 500L a bit of much needed profile.