Sales of the consummate gasoline/electric Toyota Prius hybrid reached a milestone mark of more than one million worldwide, Toyota announced today. Since the Prius first went on sale in Japan in 1997, then in Europe and North America in 2000, total cumulative sales through April 2008 hit 1,028,000 units, with—believe it or not—most units being sold in North America. Toyota says it believes that, compared to emissions of straight gasoline-powered vehicles, this many Prius hybrids on our earth’s roadways have done their eco-friendly part, resulting in a 4.5 million ton reduction in CO2 emissions—that nasty stuff environmentalists and other people who like to breathe believe to be a big cause of global warming. In their quest to build and sell even more fuel efficient vehicles, Toyota also offers other hybrids, such as the Camry and Highlander , and various Lexus models, like the GS 450h and LS 600h sedans and RX 400h luxury crossover SUV. They’re not alone in their efforts, though, as more and more manufacturers are aiming to do the same with their own brand of gasoline/electric hybrid technology, from compact cars to midsize sedans and SUV s.

The smallest car sold in America has been crash tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning the highest rating of Good for both frontal offset and side-impact protection. Previously, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had tested the Smart, giving it four stars of five for driver, three stars for the passenger, and five stars for side impact. Both organizations noted that the driver’s door became unlatched during the side test, citing potential risk though no related injuries occurred in the testing. This good performance is impressive for such a small car--one that measures 40 inches shorter than a Mini Cooper. There is very little crush space, putting greater reliance on the performance of the safety belts. The driver’s head did pass through the airbag in the IIHS frontal test, though head measures did not indicate a significant injury was likely. As with all front crash tests, the results are only comparable to models in the same class. However, there are no other “microcars” sold in the United States. A stiff structure and seat-mounted side airbags are credited to protecting the dummy in the side-impact test, which uses a moving barrier...

Ford will debut the 2009 Focus coupe in an “American Idol” music video on Wednesday, revealing a modest update inspired by customer feedback, including new front and rear fascias, and a new roof-line spoiler. The SES series also gets standard 17-inch aluminum wheels on the SES series. These changes will further differentiate the Focus coupe from the sedan. To better target the young Millennials demographic drawn to the coupe, the design team made the two-door’s appearance sportier, notably toning down the Bic-shaver grille and removing chromed front-fender vents. Fog lamps are now standard. The result is a less flashy appearance. For 2009, the Focus SES coupe features more horsepower (up three to 143) and a throatier sound, thanks to a new sport-tuned exhaust. The SES coupe with a four-speed automatic transmission will have a new 4.2:1 final drive ratio to deliver better off-the-line acceleration. Also available is a super-clean, 130-horsepower Duratec 20E engine that qualifies Focus as a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV). Both engines deliver 24 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, according to EPA ratings. Electronic stability control (ESC) is now available. The 2009 Focus Coupe, available...

As American motorists grapple with elevated fuel prices, many drivers are trying to maximize their mileage using techniques called hypermiling . So-called hypermilers take extreme care to improve their fuel economy by modifying their driving style, with results that can significantly exceed the EPA ratings for their vehicle. Even with simple adjustments to how you drive, the average motorist can make a measurable gain in fuel economy. Hypermiling techniques center around lawful, strategic driving. Fuel savings should never take priority over safety, and we urge you to be courteous to fellow motorists when trying to reduce your vehicle’s fuel consumption. That said, the benefits of hypermiling are significant. If you give this gentle driving style an earnest chance, you will see a difference in your weekly gas bill. Considering the big picture, these techniques could make a notable reduction in our need for imported oil if they were widely adopted by today’s motorists. So do pass these tips along. To help you get the most from each precious gallon, we present the following gas-saving advice, tips, and hypermiling tricks: Keep a logbook, noting miles driven, fuel consumed, and type of...

Thursday, the first production 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 was built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada. Over 1,000 employees and guests were on hand to celebrate the rebirth of the muscle car legend. The Challenger is built on the same line as the Charger sedan and the Chrysler 300C. Approximately 7,000 2008 model-year Challengers will be produced for North American markets before 2009 model-year cars begin production in August. For 2009, Dodge will offer three models: Challenger SE, Dodge Challenger R/T, and Dodge Challenger SRT8. The 2008 models are already sold out. Pricing for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 starts at $37,995, including the $675 destination charge. Read about the Challenger SE and Challenger R/T .

Chrysler has launched its own so-called economic stimulus plan, the “ Let’s Refuel America ” promotion, which guarantees enrolled Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep customers gasoline prices fixed at $2.99 a gallon. The automaker notes customer feedback has 76 percent of respondents citing rising gas prices as a “top concern.” Given that Chrysler sales for April are down 23 percent from the same period last year, this campaign should help address corporate concerns, as well. Customers who purchase an eligible new model from now till June 2, 2008 may elect to participate in the gas card program over accepting other available incentives – a decision to weigh carefully. Participants will use a special gas card for fuel purchases, with the transaction routed through their personal credit card, which will be charged $2.99 per gallon. There are a few limitations on the fuel type and quantity; offer valid with up to 87 octane regular unleaded fuel, E85 fuel, or diesel fuel only, depending upon purchased vehicle. The following vehicles are not eligible for the Let’s Refuel America program: All SRT models, Dodge Viper, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Ram Chassis Cab, Chrysler Crossfire, Jeep Wrangler, and Dodge...

News flash: The cost of luxury continues to rise. Toyota Motor Sales has announced updated pricing for a variety of Lexus branded vehicles to take place starting mid May. The revisions see incremental increases in all cases, though the price bumps only impact the models listed below. Base retail prices do not include destination charges. 2008 Lexus IS 250 - $30,855, increases by $300, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus IS 250 AWD - $34,485, increases by $300, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus IS 350 - $36,305, increases by $300, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus ES 350 - $34,120, increases by $300, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus GS 350 - $44,550, increases by $400, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus GS 460 - $46,500, increases by $400, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus GS 450h - $55,800, increases by $900, or 1.6 percent. 2008 Lexus GX 470 - $47,315, increases by $500, or 1.1 percent. 2008 Lexus LS 460 - $62,900, increases by $900, or 1.4 percent. 2008 Lexus LS 460L - $72,900, increases by $900, or 1.4 percent. 2008 Lexus LS 600h L hybrid - $104,900, increases by $900, or 0.9 percent. 2008 Lexus LX 570 - $74,700, increases by $900, or 1.2 percent. 2008 Lexus SC 430 - $66,355, increases by $900, or 1.4 percent. 2008 Lexus RX...

Hard to believe the Volkswagen New Beetle has been on the road for a full decade, already. Most vehicles would go through two full generations in that period, but the New Beetle has built on the original’s reputation for going the distance. (The classic Beetle was produced from 1938 until 2003!) Since its introduction, over 1 million New Beetles have been produced worldwide, with more than 500,000 sold in the United States. Originally unveiled as a design study car called “Concept 1” at the Detroit-based North American International Auto Show in 1994, the New Beetle made its worldwide debut in 1998. Since then, the hardtop spawned a cute convertible version. Together, both have offered a range of engines, including diesel, for both performance and fuel efficiency. Special editions have injected new life into the production run, including clever online marketing tie-ins for exclusive colors. In 1996, the New Beetle received its most significant update, with revised bumper caps freshening the exterior appearance. Under the curved hood, a five-cylinder engine was fitted, giving the New Beetle a smooth, refined alternative to the peaky, yet highly entertaining turbocharged four-cylinder...

This past February, Volvo produced car number 15,000,000, and the new owners just took delivery of the history-making 2008 Volvo C70 . The car traveled more than 5,000 miles from its factory birthplace in Uddevalla, Sweden to San Diego, California, where new owners Paul and Aimee Kay received a surprise, a free European deliver trip. Since they already have their Celestial Blue, they will be able to simply enjoy the trip, complete with visit to the factory delivery center in Goteborg, Sweden. Coincidentally, the first Volvo car to leave a Swedish factory in April, 1927, was a convertible. Nicknamed “Jakob,” the OV4 was powered by a four-cylinder engine. Any Volvo customer can participate in the Overseas Delivery Program . The company will arrange to have your new Volvo delivered to any one of 13 European destinations, then you can drive it during your stay, and have it delivered to your home in the United States Research Volvo in the buyer’s guide , complete with pricing, specifications, and photo galleries. Read our Volvo C70 review .

According to a Zogby/MSN poll, only 7% of Americans will consider buying a more fuel-efficient vehicle if gas prices continue to climb. Yesterday I saw a gas station in Hollywood, California selling premium for $4.89 per gallon. Just across the street was another station with premium at $4.11. No, the cars at the higher-priced station were not Bentleys and Maseratis. So, what does this say about driving consumers? Do we really care as a whole? Perhaps convenience is more important. Maybe our sheer love of cars is what really rules. Do most of us only appreciate fuel-efficient technology while we still choose to drive what and how we want? New vehicles get previewed every year and—for the most part—we ogle the high end and the horsepower. Americans—and my guess is more than 7%—love to drive fast, and will continue to do so. When a fill-up costs upwards of $50, will we slow down, keep our tires’ pressure in check, clean out the trunk, and quit racing to red lights, or will we only spend less elsewhere? Is the rising cost of gas just the price we pay to enjoy our cars’ performance?

The unveiling of a Chevrolet Corvette Indy 500 pace car is like opening a present. Bowtie enthusiasts clamor to see the memorable designs that distinguish the pace car and can quote the year on site. After all, the image of a purple convertible with bright yellow wheels can be hard to forget, even if you try. The 92nd Indianapolis 500 takes place on Sunday, May 25, 2008. It will be the Corvette’s 10th appearance as the official pace car – a record unmatched by any other vehicle. This year, Chevrolet has treated fans to two pace cars, a customized Corvette Z06 E85 concept and a black-and-silver car that pays tribute to the original black-and-silver 1978 coupe. A true collectible, a ‘78 will be on hand to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Corvette’s pace car heritage leading “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Based on the production Z06, the Corvette Z06 E85 concept pace car has fuel system and powertrain controller revisions required to run E85. The head-turning coupe is coated in Gold Rush Green color-shifting paint with a checkered flag pattern. Besides safety equipment and strobe light, the Z06 concept pace car is mechanically stock. The 30th anniversary commemorative edition...

Toyota Motor Sales has announced updated pricing for a variety of Toyota branded vehicles to take place starting mid May. The revisions see incremental increases in all cases, though the price bumps only impact the models listed below. Base retail prices do not include destination charges. 2008 Toyota Avalon - $27,325 , increases by $250, or 0.8 percent. 2009 Toyota Camry - $18,920 , increases by $200 or 0.9 percent. 2009 Toyota Camry hybrid - $25,650 , increases by $300 or 1.1 percent. 2008 Toyota Camry Solara coupe - $20,180 , increases by $250 or 0.9 percent. 2008 Toyota Camry Solara convertible - $27,440 , increases by $250 or 0.9 percent. 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser - $23,045 , increases by $500, or 2.1 percent. 2008 Toyota Highlander - $27,500 , increases by $200, or 0.7 percent. 2008 Toyota Highlander hybrid - $34,200 , increases by $500, or 1.3 percent. 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser - $64,100 , increases by $900, or 1.4 percent. 2008 Toyota Prius - $21,500 , increases by $400, or 1.8 percent. 2008 Toyota RAV4 - $21,500 , increases by $250, or 1.1 percent. 2008 Toyota Sienna - $24,440 , increases by $100, or 0.4 percent. 2008 Toyota Tundra - $22,390 , increases by $100, or 0.3 percent...

General Motors announced a new partnership with Mascoma Corp. to develop cellulosic ethanol from non-grain sources. As an investor, GM will aid in the development of renewable fuel for the more than 7 million flex-fuel vehicles on U.S. roads, including 3 million GM cars and trucks. In January, GM announced a partnership with Coskata Inc., a start-up with promising thermo-chemical technology for creating ethanol from practically any renewable source, including garbage, old tires, and plant waste. ( Photo shows the 2009 Buick Lucerne, the first flex-fuel capable Buick passenger car.) Mascoma uses a single-step biochemical conversion that convert biomass cellulose into ethanol. Their process lowers costs by limiting additives and enzymes used in other biochemical processes. Based in Boston, privately held Mascoma is using proprietary microorganisms developed at the company's laboratories in the process. In addition to funds from GM, Mascoma has received a $26 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. GM looks to be smartly positioning itself as an automaker and fuel creator, while further the corporation’s environmental initiatives. In addition, through its investments, GM...

It was 60 years ago when the original Land Rover was shown at a motor show in Amsterdam, on April 30, 1948. The current Defender is clearly descended from that first vehicle, known as a Series 1. Extraordinarily, they even share a couple of original parts, an oil filler plug and a cleat for tying down the canvas roof. Today, Land Rover has five-model line-up headed by the Range Rover, and record global sales of over 226,000 vehicles in 2007. Land Rover sets a high standard for both luxury and off-road performance, two characteristics often considered mutually exclusive. Around the world, Land Rover will be celebrating its 60th anniversary year throughout the summer with a series of special activities and events. Land Rover Timeline 1948 LAND ROVER SERIES I The iconic British SUV makes its debut at the Amsterdam Motor Show 1949 ARMY EDITION British Army orders its first Land Rovers 1953 Long-wheelbase version introduced 1958 LAND ROVER SERIES II UNVEILED 1966 500,000th Land Rover 1970 RANGE ROVER 1971 LAND ROVER SERIES III LAUNCHED 1976 Millionth Land Rover built in June 1982 FOUR-DOOR RANGE ROVER 1989 DISCOVERY Third Land Rover model launched 1990 DEFENDER Original 'Land Rover'...

No parent will be surprised that most teens consider themselves to be good drivers, yet their behavior tells a different story. According to a new survey conducted by Erie Insurance, only about a third (34 percent) of respondents say their friends are good drivers and nearly all (97 percent) teens reported seeing other teens taking risks (speeding, not wearing seatbelts, etc.) while driving. The survey was conducted this spring among 2,127 licensed drivers aged 16-19 years old. Key findings include: Cell phone use among teens is high (76 percent regularly talk on a cell phone while driving). Text messaging while driving is common among teens (57 percent sometimes or often read or send text messages while driving). Most teens (93 percent) play loud music when they drive. Nearly half (48 percent) admit they're easily distracted when friends are passengers. For more on teen driving, read: 10 Tips for Parents of Teenage Drivers Giving Teens a Driving Edge