Toyota Annouces Prius c Pricing

Toyota's Prius c is priced under $19K.  Photo courtesy Toyota

There is no doubt that hybrids are becoming more mainstream in America each day.  While we here at Car and Writer prefer vehicles with an emphasis on maximum cornering and driving enjoyment, we do recognize that others prefer vehicles with mpg numbers that are well above the nation's current combined average of 27.2 mpg. 

Nissan 370Z receives updates for 2013

2013 Nissan 370Z receives updates.

Nissan has debuted the 2013 370Z at the Chicago Auto Show.  The 370Z's most notable updates are a new front and rear fascia, with vertical daytime running lights on the front bumper.  On the lower part of the rear bumper, sharp eyed observers will notice the black plastic square in the middle has been replaced by a red reflector. 

Fiat 500 Abarth pricing announced for U.S. market

Fiat announced the price for its much anticipated 500 Abarth.  The starting price of the vehicle is said to be $22,000 for the car excluding the destination fee.  If the fee stays the same amount as the basic 500's fee, it will be an additional $500 to the price. 

Random Wrench Tip #4: Quck and Easy Makeshift Funnel

If you've ever had the unfortunate experience of having to add fluids to your car at the side of the road or in a parking lot away from home without a funnel, you know how frustrating it can be to keep the fluids from spilling all over your engine bay.  The ordeal can be especially maddening when the fluid happens to be brake fluid because it will quickly damage any painted surface. 

Fear not, as this random wrench tip will make you feel like MacGyver in no time!

New Car Prices Up, Incentives Down

A recent article by the Wall Street Journal stated the sales of automobiles in the U.S. increased by 11% last month versus the same time frame last year which was published in a report from J.D. Power and Associates.  The firm also noted that the average price of an automobile rose from $25,505 in 2008 to $28,341, an 11.1% increase. 

Surprisingly, the amount of discounts and rebates being offered by manufactures has decreased.  The average amount of incentives for new cars has dropped by $338. 

The article can be viewed here:  WSJ

Slice of Americana Pie: Just Beyond the Las Vegas Strip

The Valley of Fire's signature red-orange sandstone color.  Photo courtesy of Yumiko Boreham.

Las Vegas is without question a very popular tourist spot.  Many people go there to indulge in a bit of gambling, shopping and endless partying, but what's there if you want to travel beyond the glitz and glamor of the main strip?  Perhaps it's because you have grown tired of the one trick pony which Las Vegas seems to be, or you may have some little ones in tow.  If you enjoy experiencing a little Americana and viewing petroglyphs, your destination is approximately 45 minutes northeast of Las Vegas.

U.S. News - Best 2012 Cars for Families

U.S. News & World Reports released their top vehicles for families for 2012.  The report highlights one winner each vehicle category based on what the news company states as, "...winners provide the safety, features, and ownership experience today's families demand."

In total, there are 17 winners with Honda and Ford taking the most accolades, being winners in 4 categories.  The list of winners for families can be viewed here:  2012 Best cars for Families.