VIDEO: Consumer Reports Re-Tests, Blesses Lexus GX 460

Alright, "blessing" is too strong a term. "Lifting the curse" is probably a better way to put it. After all, a month of being labelled a "Don't Buy" by Consumer Reports is the nearest thing to a kiss of death the automobile industry knows.  But it's all better now, right?

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Double Jeopardy: Feds Won't Rule Out Second Fine For Toyota

Despite levying (and receiving) a record fine from Toyota for failing to promptly report issues with sticking gas pedals, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says he won't rule out additional fines for the same offense.

LaHood made those comments in Japan, with Akio Toyoda standing next to him.

Toyota paid the $16.4 million without admitting to the government's accusation, and said it did so to avoid "a protracted dispute".

But that apparently put blood in the water for the feds to smell. LaHood says by paying the fine, Toyota accepted responsiblity for the violation.

Full details from Automotive News.

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Feds Probe Dodge Caliber Gas Pedal Problem

NHTSA is looking into sticky accelerator pedals in as many as 161,000 Dodge Calibers. The supplier? The same one who supplied Toyota.

Full story from Automotive News.

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Infiniti G35 Airbag Recall

Nissan is recalling 135,000 G35 sedans (model years 2005-2006) and coupes (2005-2007) for a wire harness that could wear to a point where airbags don't deploy in a crash.

Full story from Reuters via Automotive News.

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Audi R8 GT: Our Favorite Car, Faster

Sharp-eyed followers of TireKicker may have noticed that the #1 spot on TireKicker's Top 10 Cars (So Far) has never changed. Yes, we loves us the Audi R8 that much.

Well, taking out a lot of weight through lightweight construction methods does wonders for already great performance...like 0-62 in 3.6 seconds and a new top speed of 198.84 miles per hour.

While I let my mind wander, Audi would like to fill you in on all the details.

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Jaguar Platinum Coverage: Put Your Wallet Away, Sir

Besides hitting its stride on building some downright desirable automobiles, Jaguar's working overtime on making the ownershp experience as painless as possible.

The just-announced Jaguar Platinum Coverage features a 5 year/50,000 mile warranty (one year more than any other luxury carmaker), free scheduled maintenance during that period (fluid & filter changes, etc.)...and...free wear & tear items for 5 and 50.

That's right. Wiper blades, brake pads, rotors...the stuff nobody covers because, well...this stuff just wears out when you drive a car...Jaguar is covering. 

Plus free 24/7 roadside assistance for the 5 year/50,000 miles.  Full details here.

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Avis Wants To Top Hertz Bid For Rival Dollar/Thrifty

In the 60s and 70s, Avis' advertising pitch was "We're #2...We Have To Try Harder."

Well, that's the essence of their pitch to Dollar-Thrifty, which has a deal to be bought out by #1 Hertz.  Avis says it can do better and that Dollar-Thrifty is selling itself too cheaply.

Details from The Detroit Free Press. 

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