Lincoln introduces Black Label trim at Pebble Beach

Lincoln introduced its hoity-toity Black Label Collection at Pebble Beach on Thursday. In the words of Jim Farley, “The new Lincoln Motor Company is built on three foundational elements -- design, quality and personal service; Black Label represents our highest expression of these elements.” Lincoln says its Black Label dealers will collaborate to create a personal, integrated client shopping and ownership experience, with respect for the luxury of time. We're not sure exactly what that means, but if the dealers can pick up the cars for gas, a wash and some fast food, that would be great.

Mazda 3, Mazda 6 get customized for the SEMA Show

We like the look of Mazda's current lineup, from the basic 2 to the sleek 6. Kodo design language has a lot to do with it -- Mazda North American Operations design director Derek Jenkins says that, thanks that Kodo styling, "the Zoom-Zoom genetic code is further being embraced, not buried, through increasingly expressive vehicle design." (Ugh.-ED) We didn't know genetics had anything to do with it, but hey -- tough to argue with the results. Perhaps Kodo's effectiveness is why Mazda's SEMA show concepts are fairly...restrained compared to what other automakers are bringing to Las Vegas.

Fiat-Chrysler to make Jeeps, Alfas in Italy starting in 2012

Fiat S.p.A. and Chrysler Group will build Alfa Romeo and Jeep models for global distribution as part of a new joint-venture company that will take control over Fiat's Mirafiori plant in Turin, Fiat said Friday. Fiat-Chrysler will invest more than 1 billion euros (more than $1.3 billion) to retool the factory.