Saab 9-3 2003 2004 2005-2007 2.0t Emergency Parking Hand Ebrake Lever Assembly on 2040-parts.com

MPG or performance: It's a trade with turbos

Some automakers say turbochargers offer high fuel economy and quick acceleration, the best of both worlds. Well, yes and no. Turbocharged vehicles allow automakers to keep power output high while they downsize engines for better fuel economy.

Third Tesla Model S catches fire

Update: According to an Automotive News report, "NHTSA said it will contact local authorities about the latest fire 'to determine if there are vehicle safety implications that merit agency action.'" The agency had previously backed away from an investigation after determining that vehicle defects were not to blame for the fire in early October. Just after Tesla Motors reported a $38 million third-quarter loss and within a few weeks of two other car fires, a third Model S sedan reportedly burned on the highway near Smyrna, Tenn. The Tesla Motors Club forum supplied photos of the crash, which occurred around 1:30 Wednesday afternoon, in addition to intense speculation on the cause of the fire.

Sandy's toll: 15,000 cars and counting

The damage tally from Superstorm Sandy continues to roll in. The latest estimate is that Toyota, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda plan to scrap 15,000 new cars damaged. The National Automotive Dealers Association says that number could grow to 200,000 cars.