The US economy and the resulting weakness of the dollar looks like it may well contribute to the price of crude oil continuing to rise as investors have been holding the commodity instead of dollars. This means that as the cost of a barrel of crude oil comes close to the 100 dollar figure then so fuel prices have also continued to rise.

So do higher fuel costs mean we are likely to buy or use cars, vans and Lorries less in 2008? Well seemingly not based on a latest poll of motorists. Despite fuel prices increasing at alarming rates a whopping 79 percent of motorists questioned said they had not changed their petrol and fuel buying habits and had no plans to do so. In fact the motorists questioned said petrol prices would have to increase at even more alarming rates to stop them from filling up.

Environmental issues would it seem not be as important as governments throughout the world as over 1 in 3 motorists confirmed they had no plans to replace their vehicles for more environmentally friendly cars before 2010.

And so if motorists are seemingly unaffected by rising fuel costs and are prepared to continue driving despite increased road tax and the impact on the environment surely positive times are ahead for the industry in 2008?

Well before car manufacturers and dealers start doing cartwheels, caution would certainly be advised as whilst General Motors can seen promising performance in emerging markets they have seen big losses in both American and European markets.

And with the world economy in such an uncertain state as 2007 draws to a close 2008 could well see new car sales fall with used car sales increasing. Car sales and indeed sales of all types are also likely to increase via the internet in 2008 so car dealers (new and used) without an internet presence should really be looking at establishing themselves in this emerging marketplace.

And what of the actual motorist, what does 2008 have in store for us? Well how about further increases in vehicle tax, more toll roads, increased congestion charges and still a seeming lack of a viable alternative to road use through reliable, clean and safe public transport.

The good news for some motorists on one front is that whilst the government is seemingly do all they can to penalise the motorist, insurance premiums including car insurance, van insurance and motor trade insurance are pretty stable. In fact with such competition in the insurance industry the cost of insurance like combined motor trade insurance could even fall and savings could be made.

And motor traders who are looking to make savings on their motor trade insurance premiums in 2008 using a specialist motor trade insurance broker could well be the route to take to make sure they get the protection they need at a price that is right.

2008 promises to be an exciting time for all involved in the automotive industry so put your seat belts on, buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Rising fuel prices, unstable financial markets and taxation changes with the apparent aim of getting us to use our cars less often (or at least pay more to use them) have been just some of the issues that have affected the automotive industry in the past 12 months. This article looks at what 2008 may hold for the automotive industry and road users in general.

The US economy and the resulting weakness of the dollar looks like it may well contribute to the price of crude oil continuing to rise as investors have been holding the commodity instead of dollars. This means that as the cost of a barrel of crude oil comes close to the $100 figure then so fuel prices have also continued to rise.

So do higher fuel costs mean we are likely to buy or use cars, vans and Lorries less in 2008? Well seemingly not based on a latest poll of motorists. Despite fuel prices increasing at alarming rates a whopping 79 percent of motorists questioned said they had not changed their petrol and fuel buying habits and had no plans to do so. In fact the motorists questioned said petrol prices would have to increase at even more alarming rates to stop them from filling up.

Environmental issues would it seem not be as important as governments throughout the world as over 1 in 3 motorists confirmed they had no plans to replace their vehicles for more environmentally friendly cars before 2010.

And so if motorists are seemingly unaffected by rising fuel costs and are prepared to continue driving despite increased road tax and the impact on the environment surely positive times are ahead for the industry in 2008?

Well before car manufacturers and dealers start doing cartwheels, caution would certainly be advised as whilst General Motors can seen promising performance in emerging markets they have seen big losses in both American and European markets.

And with the world economy in such an uncertain state as 2007 draws to a close 2008 could well see new car sales fall with used car sales increasing. Car sales and indeed sales of all types are also likely to increase via the internet in 2008 so car dealers (new and used) without an internet presence should really be looking at establishing themselves in this emerging marketplace.

And what of the actual motorist, what does 2008 have in store for us? Well how about further increases in vehicle tax, more toll roads, increased congestion charges and still a seeming lack of a viable alternative to road use through reliable, clean and safe public transport.

The good news for some motorists on one front is that whilst the government is seemingly do all they can to penalise the motorist, insurance premiums including car insurance, van insurance and motor trade insurance are pretty stable. In fact with such competition in the insurance industry the cost of insurance like combined motor trade insurance could even fall and savings could be made.

And motor traders who are looking to make savings on their motor trade insurance premiums in 2008 using a specialist insurance broker could well be the route to take to make sure they get the protection they need at a price that is right.

The newly redesigned 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup including SRT8, R/T, SXT and SE models continues the boldly-styled theme of American muscle, with its distinctive profile, exceptional versatility, HEMI power, fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive performance. Advanced technologies, flexible and functional cargo space and integrated safety and security features are combined to provide a powerful, capable family vehicle with the ride and handling of a sports car.

For its third birthday, the Dodge Magnum gets some face lifting mainly around the headlights, seeking to correct what Chrysler design chief Trevor Creed described as the Magnum’s “wide-eyed look.” Aside from the scowling new headlights, the ‘08 Magnum also gets a new grille and the new interior. The latter change is shared with the Dodge Charger, but neither the Charger nor the Chrysler 300 is getting a facelift for next year.

The Magnum was displayed in SRT8 trim at Detroit to better show off the hood scoop which is now part of the SRT8 package. The car also features a new paint color for the SRT8, a bright lipstick red. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is more intimidating than ever with its completely redesigned hood, grille, front fascia and functional performance hood scoop. The 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 retains its commitment to the SRT credo of “Race inspired, street legal” with 0-60 mph performance in the low 5-second range while, at the same time, maintaining all of the functional and convenience features the entire 2008 Dodge Magnum lineup has to offer.

Mike Accavitti, Director of Dodge Motorsports and SRT Marketing and Product Planning for Chrysler Group, said the 2008 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is the ultimate package for drivers seeking complete, sports-car performance without compromising family-vehicle comfort and functionality.

Poised for its fourth year, the Magnum has won and lost buyers without compromises. It actually looks nothing like an SUV, or a crossover, or anything besides what it is. Only a few vehicles have such strong personalities, so it is refreshing that the Magnum?s reinvention has kept much of that personality intact. By knocking a few corners off the design and improving the interior, the folks at Dodge just may convince more people that it is okay to love a wagon that really looks like a wagon.

What does the 2008 Dodge Magnum look like?

Dodge designers restyled the side creases and stretched the front end by lowering the hood line and adding chrome accents under the headlights. One feature that will surely be liked by Dodge fans are the High Intensity Discharge (HID) lights. In general, the design looks more smooth and refreshing.

Its Dodge catalytic converter is also possibly reengineered.

Inside the Dodge Magnum are changes such as the cabin with higher quality materials, chrome trim and the now trendy LED backlighting.

So if you want a car that is really refreshing, choose the 2008 Dodge Magnum ? it is worth your budget.

The launch of the 2008 Dodge Challenge is fast approaching and details of the car are slowly leaking out. According to Automotive News, Dodge plans to roll out the Challenger in two phases. A 5,000-car limited-run 2008 Challenger SRT will be unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show in February. The SRT version will be equipped with the 6.1-liter Hemi mated to a five-speed automatic.

The Challenger will be made in limited numbers on the same line as the Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, and the Dodge Magnum in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. The flexible manufacturing system permits the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Commander to be built on the same line, as well as the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass, and the Jeep Patriot, end-to-end. This serves as a replacement to the batch production method.

For the 2009 model year, Dodge will expand the Challenger lineup to cover both 6.1- and 5.7-liter Hemi versions. The models will be showcased at the 2008 New York Auto Show in March. A six-speed manual will be added. Aside from the reliable Dodge shocks and other auto accessories, the automaker plans to add a dual-clutch transmission to the car. The automaker will be increasing the Challenger’s production output to 30,000-35,000 cars in 2009, continued the report.

In January 2006, Dodge unveiled the Challenger Concept at the same venue that saw the debut of Ford’s Concept Mustang three years prior – the North American International Auto Show. A relatively long hood and Chrysler’s idiosyncratic gangster window line flow into broadened and raised rear haunches, barely housing huge 21-inch wheels, and black stripes of unpainted carbon fiber run the length of the vehicle?s body. There is no denying it – the upcoming Challenger looked positively superior when the sheet is whisked off.

Soon after the launch, Inside Line visited Chrysler’s Pacifica Design Studio in Carlsbad, California, where the 2008 Dodge Challenger Concept was designed. “Early on, we just tried to capture ‘Mopar’ in the designs,” Mike Castiglione told Inside Line. “We tried to capture the beveled edges that were uniquely Mopar back in the muscle car days. If you look at an old Challenger or Charger, the lines have a snap to them. Once we figured that out, then we got more focused.”

Two Challenger Concepts were manufactured, both powered by the popular 6.1-liter Hemi V8. The first was the stunning orange Challenger Concept designed to be a street car that produces 425hp. The second concept is the 525-hp flat-black Challenger Super-stock concept which knocks off 11.0-second quarter-mile runs.

According to the automaker, the concept cars are based on a shortened Dodge Charger platform and are topped with carbon fiber bodies. To stress, both are real runners. Unlike all other American domestic sport coupes, the new Challenger is a true two-door hardtop, with no B-pillar. Recent spy photographs of production test mule Challengers have revealed the presence of a B-pillar, but it is as yet unclear as to whether actual production models will contain the B-pillar.

Late to arrive in the performance car arena, the 2008 Dodge Challenger is esteemed to smash into it big time.

Chrysler Group now launches its minivan models and aims to provide the needs of consumers that are looking for practicality and functionality in a vehicle. Chrysler Group introduces the all-new 2008 model year of the Dodge Grand Caravan and the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country.

These two minivan models come with innovative features for customers. According to Larry Lyons, Vice President – Chrysler Group Front-wheel-drive Product Team: “Chrysler Group engineers continue to bring fresh ideas to the minivan segment. This time, we turn the tables on traditional seats with a technology that lets families have more choices of how to spend their time while traveling. With Swivel ‘n Go, second- and third-row passengers can face each other to have a conversation, play games or have a meal on the go.”

Lyons added: “Chrysler Group is the first to offer a six-speed transaxle in a minivan. With a new 4.0-liter, V-6 aluminum engine and new six-speed transaxle, the 2008 Chrysler and Dodge minivans offer added performance and a smoother driving experience.”

Innovative features and other minivan-first features include the all-new Swivel ‘n Go(TM) seat system, integrated child booster seat in the second-row quad chair, one-touch power-folding third-row seat, and six-speed transaxle.

The main highlights of the two vehicles are the interior features that provide functionality and comfort for its occupants as well as cargo. Standard interior features include premium multi-function front-row sliding console, second-row in-floor covered storage bins, second-row bench seat with second-row covered storage bins, third-row fold-in-the-floor seating, the exclusive Stow ‘n Go(R) seating and storage system, and removable table.

Not only the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country offer functionality and comfort. These two minivan models also provide the best entertainment features for its occupants. These features include dual DVD multimedia entertainment system, MyGIG(TM) CD/DVD/HDD/MP3/satellite radio with voice-activated capability, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, SIRIUS Backseat TV, UConnect(R) Hands-free Communication system with Bluetooth(R) technology, mesh side pockets, 115-volt inverter, and two second-row input/output jacks with a 12-volt power outlet.

On the technical side, Chrysler Group is offering three different powertrain combinations for the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country. Customers can choose the new 4.0-liter V-6 aluminum engine coupled with a new six-speed transmission, 3.8-liter V-6 aluminum engine mated to a new six-speed transaxle, and a 3.3-liter flex-fuel-capable V-6 aluminum engine coupled with a four-speed transaxle. A catalytic converter similar to Chrysler’s former American Motors catalytic converter is also included to reduce harmful exhaust emissions.

Steven Landry, Executive Vice President – Chrysler Group NAFTA Sales, Global Marketing, Service and Parts concluded: “Family transportation has changed since the introduction of the original Dodge Caravan in 1984. The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan set the family transportation standard with an all-new ‘grown-up’ appearance, five different models, three distinct seating and storage systems, unmatched entertainment systems and the safety consumers expect and deserve. Add in three powertrain options, clever interior features and industry-leading functionality and you have a recipe that will be a favorite with any family.”

Auto industry’s convertible segment is booming these days. To compete ardently, Chrysler sets free a powerful convertible in the 2008 version of Sebring.

The new Sebring Convertible from the automaker is built on D-segment platform of the automaker. Said platform is capable of producing a sleek, exhilarating, elegant, comfortable, and fuel efficient convertible that sits 4 adults. The trunk is also made spacious to hold extra loads even when the top of the convertible is dropped.

The new convertible offers 3 striking top options ? vinyl, cloth, and all-new steel retractable hard top. These options can be controlled with just a push of a button on the key fob. Chrysler Convertible parts Sebring are engineered to deliver positive changes in the segment. 2008 Sebring Convertible boasts its standard power hard top tonneau cover on all models. It also boasts the option of superb open-air riding freedom as well as privacy in driving.

“America’s favorite convertible is now better than ever,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President-Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. “The all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers the unprecedented combination of unmistakable road presence, athletic handling, innovative technologies, as well as plenty of room for people and gear. In fact, the all-new Sebring Convertible is the only convertible in the segment that can pass the two-golf- bag test. The sky’s the limit on what this vehicle can accomplish in the marketplace.”

Engine options for Chrysler Sebring Convertible parts include the standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder World Engine, the Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter V-6 engine and the 3.5-liter V-6 engine with a new 6-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick. 2008 Sebring Convertible is made 3.5 inches taller and more than 2 inches wider than its predecessor. Compared to its sedan version, the convertible is 3 inches longer. Its wheelbase is also extended by 2.9 inches.

Outside North America, the automaker will be offering a diesel engine as well as right-hand-drive availability to give the vehicle stronger selling potentials. Chrysler intends to further enhance America’s favorite convertible which made it a best-seller in the United States for the past 11 years. The new Sebring Convertible is expected to exude supremacy this year.

The new 2008 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is a combination of exotic charm and driven to thrill design. The Eclipse Spyder has a high-tech convertible top and offered at an outstanding value. It is equipped with standard 18-inch alloy wheels, especially designed Mitsubishi muffler, SIRIUS

Do you have any expectations from this season in NASCAR? What would you like to see? I can’t wait to see Tony Stewart and Kyle Busch working as team mates. That could be some intense action there. And you know their going to have a different kind of attitude, driving Toyota.

Ford has recently revealed its new 2008 Ford Taurus which is considered to be one of the most powerful, spacious, refined, and safest Taurus ever built by the American multinational corporation and manufacturer of quality Ford exhaust system.

The new Taurus will have a base manufacturer?s suggested retail price or MSRP of $23,995 including delivery and destination charges. This price is comparably lower than that of the Toyota Avalon and the Chrysler 300.

In the year 1985 nearly seven million Ford Taurus sedans were built and from then on it remains as one of the most recognized Ford vehicles names of all time. As a matter of fact, the Ford F-Series and Mustang are only trailing behind in popularity to the Taurus.

The new 2008 Ford Taurus sports a distinctive looked that is inspired by the highly successful Ford Fusion and Ford Edge. It also adopts the automaker?s powerful and refined 3.5 liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. It also features some of Ford?s most advanced safety technology which includes standard Safety Canopy? side curtain air bags. The new 2008 Ford Taurus will also be equipped with quality Ford auto components beginning with huge auto parts down to complex parts such as Ford exhaust which have been further improved to emission regulations.

The new 2008 For Taurus has been able to obtain five-star ratings in all categories in crash testing conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA.

The new 2008 Ford Taurus is to be offered in two trims series—the Taurus SEL and the Taurus Limited. The base price of the 2008 Ford Taurus SEL is $23,995 inclusive of destination and delivery charges. It is equipped with the optional Interior Convenience Package that includes a six-disc CD changer, wiper activated headlamps with auto on/off, dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, 8-way power driver?s seat, and wood grain appearance totaling to a price of $24,890. This price is still low compared to the price of its competitors such as Toyota Avalon XL costing $27, 495 and Chrysler 300 Touring models priced at $29,635.

The new 2008 Ford Taurus also offers the best all-wheel-drive value in its segment with a manufacturer?s suggested retail price of $25,845. The only other vehicle in its competitive set to offer all-wheel drive is Chrysler 300 which has a price of $30,250.

The affordable price of the new 2008 Ford Taurus is actually one of the strategies of Ford in order to attract more customers. Aside from offering affordable price, the American multinational corporation also offers bold designs with brand new features plus more standard safety equipment as part of their strategy to create a long-term value for customers.

Basing on the Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG) data, the price strategy, so forth and so on implemented by Ford has greatly improved the resale value of Ford products at launch like for instance the projected 36-month resale value of the new Ford F-Series Super Duty is the highest of any full-size pickup truck. On the other hand the resale value of the 2008 Ford Escape has improved by 11 percent while the resale value of the 2007 Ford Expedition has improved by 9 percent.

The 2008 Ford Taurus was produced at Ford?s Chicago Assembly Plant. It is scheduled to hit dealership this summer. The pricing for the 2008 Ford Taurus X crossover which is also scheduled to for sale this summer is going to be announced before its launching.