Several small vehicles have had cult status, the French Deux Chevaux, the Volkswagen Beetle, and the original Mini.

All of these cars were popular in their day. However, they also had something else; an indefinable quality that gave them a cult following.

Today, there are new vehicles with a retro-style in the American market. The New Beetle by Volkswagen in 1998, the PT Cruiser by Chrysler back in 2000, and the Mini all qualify.

All of these cars have similar qualities. They look great, and handle well. In addition, they have a classlessness that allows people to make a statement without announcing that they have tons of money. Motorists drive them because they are tons of fun and they have personality.

Small vehicles in the U.S. are making a comeback, and a few of these have cult status. Consumers like to drive a “cool” car with personality and they take care of it until it dies. This is why people buy an extended auto warranty so they can keep their cars running without paying unnecessary repair costs.

Typically, you will get the best value purchasing a used vehicle. This is especially true for late models. Not only will you find the price to be lower than a new vehicle that is comparable, but also expenses for ownership, such as taxes and collision insurance will be less. In addition, a used vehicle has already taken its largest depreciation hit. You also can get a vehicle that is better equipped by buying used.

Used cars have become more appealing because their reliability has improved. Exhaust problems and rust used to be a major concern, but aren’t a problem anymore. Studies have shown that reported problems declined significantly since 1980.

Although reliability has improved considerably, repair costs and maintenance are important things to consider. Many used cars don’t have an auto warranty left or are close to the end of its life. This means that motorists will be paying out of pocket for expenses. However, buying used car warranties will take care of this problem.

Overall, buying used is a great option to save money. Also, consumers can get a car with more features than they would be able to afford new. However, an auto warranty is a necessity so that you don’t pay for unnecessary repair costs.

The Jaguar XF has a modern, fresh, take. It has a melodic V8, and a clean design with many safety benefits.  If you’re a Jaguar enthusiast, the new Jaguar XF won’t disappoint.

The XF is a four door, rear-wheel drive five seater, which offers three trim choices. They are Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Supercharged. The standard has leather seats in the front, 18-inch wheels, a steering column that can be adjusted electrically, side curtain airbags, and assisted rear parking.

This vehicle has a clean, modern interior that is bright and friendly.  It uses aluminum and wood accents tastefully and impressively.  There is lots of storage space, with a center console that is functional and large pockets for storage in each door.  The cabin of the XF offers many technical amenities, such as Bluetooth phone syncing, iPod integration, and a display that is touch screen.

The XF has new, stiff chassis that allow for suspension that is supple.  This vehicle handles well on any road contortion.

The new Jaguar XF has a sticker price of just under $50,000 for the Luxury version that is well appointed.  The S/C is $62,975.  This car has terrific looks with the moves to back it up.  In addition, it has an impressive auto warranty to go with it.

A new hybrid system will be making an appearance soon. It’s called the two-mode. The Allison Transmission division of General Motors, BMW, and DaimlerChrysler developed this originally. This alliance is called the Global Hybrid Corporation.

This full-hybrid system is called a two-mode hybrid since it has low and high-speed electric variable transmission modes. For high efficiency, it has incorporated four gear ratios that are fixed.

You will find some of the same functions that are featured on the Toyota and Ford one -mode hybrids. For example, at a standstill the car will turn off, the batteries charge while the car is braking, and the engine, the electric motor, or both can power the car.

The two-mode hybrid offers great adaptability. You can use it with many drivetrain or engine configurations. Also it can be mated to gasoline powered engines, E85 or diesel fuels.

The two-mode system will be introduced into the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon by the end of the year. BMW and Mercedes also plan to offer this system but the automakers haven’t stated what vehicles will utilize this technology. As with any technology it is important to purchase an auto warranty for your vehicle. You don’t want to end up paying unforeseen costs down the road.

Unless you are actually a mechanic yourself, it may require a leap of faith to deal with a repair shop.  However, paying attention to your mechanic’s actions can give you clues to their honesty.  Here are some things to look out for.

If your mechanic tells you to flush your engine right away, or it will go bad, he might be padding your bill.  Some shops will recommend procedures that aren’t necessary.  Also, they may want you to schedule tasks that are premature.  Pay attention to your owner’s manual for maintenance schedules.

Also, you don’t want to go to a shop that makes every repair recommendation sound like an emergency.  This is a scare tactic for consumers who aren’t mechanically inclined.

If your mechanic tells you the new fuel injectors didn’t fix it, so you will need a new fuel pump, you are dealing with a parts replacer.  This is a mechanic who is rebuilding your vehicle because he is unable to diagnose the problem.  This is one reason an auto warranty is essential.

It can be hard for consumers to know which mechanics are trying to “take them for a ride”, however, there are a few things that you can do to protect yourself.  First of all, make sure you have an auto warranty so you aren’t paying unnecessary repair costs.  Secondly, follow these tips to see if your mechanic is acting honestly.

Pontiac is returning to its bad boy roots with the G8 sport sedan.  This is a 5-passenger, V8 powered, rear-wheel-drive vehicle, which was based on the Holden Commodore.  This car offers high performance and ample passenger and cargo room, which make it a practical but sporty choice.  In addition, you can’t beat the sticker price of $29,995, and the auto warranty that comes with it.

This car comes with two trim levels.  The standard has a 3.6-liter V6 engine that puts out 256 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque.  The G8 GT has a 6.0-liter V8 putting out 361 hp and 385 lb-ft of torque.

The interior of this sedan is straightforward with controls in logical locations and front sport seats that adjust 4-ways.  An option is heated leather seats in either trim level and they are black and red leather, two-toned.

At a sticker price of $29,995, accompanied by an auto warranty, this is the performance bargain of the year.  It has great suspension and handling, and is practical enough for anyone to enjoy.  This vehicle has excellent performance, and an impressive appearance, making it a good option for any motorist.

The number one safety device is undoubtedly the seat belt.  And even though seat belts save approximately 11,000 people in America from crashes every year, researchers are still working to find improvements for the belts.  If experts in safety have their way, drivers will go from wearing three-point belts to four point belts.  In addition, occupants in the back seats would wear inflatable seat belts.

In 2001, Ford Motor Company showed two new safety belt systems being studied.  Each utilizes a four-point belt system.

One uses two belts that go over the shoulders and connects to a lap belt in the center.  The other one uses two shoulder belts traditional style that criss cross on the chest.

These systems would restrain a person’s body more firmly than the three-point system that is currently used in cars today.  Also, these are actually integrated into the seat, not the structure of the car.

For back seat occupants an inflatable safety belt may soon be an option.  This system uses a shoulder belt that contains an airbag that will inflate in the event of a car collision.

Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about protecting themselves and their cars.  This includes purchasing cars with technologically advanced safety features and buying an auto warranty to protect their cars.

Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) were made available on vehicles in the Unites States in 1978.  The first automaker to install them on production cars was Mercedes-Benz.  Cadillac began putting it in its luxury cars in 1986.

This braking system uses computers onboard that are linked to wheel sensors that will automatically make the brakes pump at a faster rate than humans can duplicate.  Anti-lock brakes apply selective pressure by being able to sense which wheels might lockup at any moment and then lowering the brake pressure on those wheels until they maintain proper rotation.  ABS only works in panic stops, not under normal braking circumstances.

ABS won’t provide you with a shorter stopping distance.  However, it has the advantage of allowing the driver to maintain control of the wheel, while avoiding skidding.

It is important for drivers to use ABS correctly.  To do this, drivers should stomp and steer.  Drivers shouldn’t pump, but instead press down hard on the brake pedal and don’t let up.

Drivers are becoming more and more concerned with auto safety.  New technology is changing safety functions to protect drivers and passengers.  Motorists should also protect themselves by purchasing an auto warranty for their vehicle.  This will allow for peace of mind.

Why would someone want to buy a pickup?  They offer the most flexibility in carrying cargo.  In addition, pickups have large payload facilities and the ability to tow.  Trucks with four door cabs allow seating for five, which makes them a good family vehicle.  In addition to an auto warranty, what other considerations do you need?  Here’s a list.

Consider whether you need compact or full-sized.  They offer different towing capacities and engines in addition to being different sizes.  Compact pickups are more fuel-efficient, easier to park, and cost less.  Full-sized pickups offer more room inside and out, have stronger engines, and have greater towing capabilities.

Bed lengths vary.  Beds range from 8 feet to 4 feet.  The longer the bed, the more difficult it is to maneuver.  Some compact trucks have a bed extender that flips out, which allows for carrying cargo that is longer.

Engines and transmissions can accommodate different needs.  For compact trucks, the base engine is a four-cylinder, which offers fuel-efficiency.  Five or six cylinder engines are optional, giving more power.  A V6 is the base engine for a full-sized truck.  For heavy towing and hauling consider a V8, V10, and diesel.

Pickups come in many sizes, with many options. Determine your use for a truck and pick the best option for you.  Doing your homework on such things as truck options, new car warranties and insurance will save you money and time down the road.

Listed at $22,995 the Chevrolet Cobalt SS gives you a lot for your money. This lets you save on the sticker price so you can have funds for new car warranties, fuel and maintenance costs. This vehicle is superb in style and amenities, but retains a balance that few entry-level cars have.

The SS version of the Cobalt is at the top of the Cobalt models.  It has a shape that is more attractive than other sport compact cars.  The 2008 version only comes as a two-door coupe.  A four-door version is expected for 2009.

This car comes standard with a short-throw manual 5-speed transmission, 18- inch wheels and sporty, suede seats.

The SS is very versatile on the road.  It can be a perfect commuter one minute and then turn into an exhilarating thrill ride the next.  It has a FE5 sport suspension that handles the irregularities in the road and provides a civilized ride.  However, ask the turbo for some boost and the car can keep an effortless pace.

The Cobalt will appeal to young lead-foots with its impressive design, power, and technology.  However, young and old alike will enjoy the overall refinement of this car.  With the addition of an auto warranty, you can rest assured that this car will offer reliability and enjoyment to a wide array of drivers.