GM Plans Pontiac Fire Sale

Long Goodbye for Dying Car Brands

As venerable brands like Pontiac and Saab are threatened with extinction, some owners fear they will be stranded. Others may find a bargain.

The Year in Cars

Hatchbacks, green cars and diesel engines were just some of the car trends this year. Here's a look at highlights from the auto industry in 2009.

BMW Hops on the Hatchback Trend

As with other carmakers, BMW is trying to make a comeback of the hatchback. While the 550i Gran Turismo is fast, sporty and luxurious, it might not be the company's best bet.

• Video: Test driving the 550i

Want to Buy a Porsche on the Cheap?

This year, luxury auto makers are flashing some very direct propositions—in contrast to the subtle persuasion of years past.

• Photos: Best Luxury-Car Holiday Deals

Can a Hybrid Be a Luxury Car?

Lexus' new high-end HS 250h sedan costs a lot more than a Prius—and gets fewer miles per gallon.

• Photos: Lexus's New Hybrid

U.S. Autos Make Gains in Resale Value

Detroit's auto makers narrowed their long-standing gap behind Asian and European competitors in car resale value, an important gauge for consumers, according to new data.

Porsche's Sedan as a Sports Car

Porsche's Panamera, the brand's first large four-door sedan, may give drivers more room with the handling of a sports car. But is it worth the six-figure price?

Nissan Thinks Small—and Electric

Nissan is ramping up production of small electric cars. Three of the cars will be coming to the U.S., including the Nissan Leaf compact.

Car Compare: Diesel Sedans

There are few sedans on the market with diesel engines. Two prominent ones are the BMW 335d and Volkswagen Jetta TDI.

• Photos: BMW 335d vs. Jetta TDI

The Message in SUVs' Evolution

Consumers and regulators pushed Detroit to reinvent big, fuel-thirsty vehicles.

Coaxing Auto Makers to Go Electric

Thanks to generous federal fuel credits, the next two to three years could see the arrival in force of a new generation of electrified vehicles. But some environmental groups say the rules are too generous.

A 'Practical' Midlife-Crisis Car

Columnist Jonathan Welsh answers readers' questions about hard-riding SUVs, transfer-case problems, and more.

Politicians Butt In at Bailed-Out GM

Companies that have received federal support, such as GM, Chrysler and Bank of America, now have the equivalent of 535 new board members -- 100 senators and 435 House members.

• USA Inc.: The State of Capitalism

The Right Wagon for Rock Climbers

Columnist Jonathan Welsh answers readers' questions about hybrids that can replace a minivan, snow tires vs. antilock brakes, and how to tell if your mechanic is gouging you.

Dude, Where's My Car?

After 30 years behind the wheel, former suburbanite and Journal editor Joseph White tries on life in the city -- without his automobile.

• Photos: Trading in Wheels for a Fare Pass

Hybrid Alternatives to the Prius

The Ford Fusion and Nissan Altima hybrids bring fuel economy to the family sedan. But how do they compare?

• Photos: Fusion Hybrid vs. Altima Hybrid

Japan's Big Three Rev Up Green Cars

Toyota, Honda and Nissan unveil new electric-car prototypes and discuss hybrid technology as the Tokyo Motor Show gets under way.

• Photos: Tokyo Motor Show
• Video: Electric Car Is Highlight

Why Driving Has Never Been Safer

The fatality rate on U.S. roads is at its lowest point since the government started keeping track. Why? Maybe it's the economy. Or maybe car makers—and drivers—are getting smarter.