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Chrysler has received an emergency loan of $4 billion from the U.S Treasury — a long-anticipated “lifejacket” the auto manufacturer’s chairman and CEO said would “help bridge the current financial crisis.”
Convertibles are mostly two-seat, sports cars and are often a luxury purchase. In recent tough economy times, sales have dropped dramatically and owning an extra vehicle purely for enjoyment isn’t prudent. Yet some convertibles are more workmanlike, like the Chrysler Sebring. It’s a convertible with practical appeal. The Sebring is priced and performs moderately and looks sharp. And it’s enduring because it satisfies the wont to own a convertible.
Price is the over-riding factor for many car shoppers in tough economic times. Getting a “deal” is more important than ever, so one would assume a budget-minded company like Kia would be perfectly positioned. The Korean automaker has always prided itself in offering affordable vehicles. And since being purchased by Hyundai and adding quality, Kia has enjoyed improved sales and reputation. The Sedona, one of Kia’s mainstays, is a well-equipped minivan with a price that can’t be matched by top competitors. The Sportage, a compact sport utility vehicle, is also a value leader, but has drawbacks. 
When Honda came out with the Pilot six years ago the Japanese automaker quickly had another hit. The Pilot became one of the forerunners in the eight-passenger midsize crossover segment. It’s a sport utility vehicle whose car-like qualities and hauling capabilities were lauded. Despite the accolades, one aspect of the Pilot got exposed – third-row seating was lacking. It wasn't accommodating and the guess is in many Pilots the third row lay flat and it was left unused.
Since its debut in 2004, the Kia Amanti has been one of the most unheralded cars on the road. And it’s difficult to understand why more premium midsize sedan buyers haven’t considered the Korean manufacturer’s top-of-the-line offering. I hadn’t driven the Amanti since its debut model. It’s been redesigned once, but for 2008 the Kia remains largely unchanged from a year ago. It still features exterior characteristics reminiscent of Audi, Lincoln and Mercedes, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Like its popular brethren, the CR-V, Odyssey and Element, the Pilot completes Honda's best-buy SUV and van line. And like any of those offerings or anything else in Honda's arsenal, it's hard to find serious fault with the Pilot. I last reviewed a Pilot in 2005, less than two years after the Pilot debuted as the replacement for the Passport. My weekly test drive this time around was the top of the line's EX L 5-door Touring model. Redesigned after a six-year tenure of the previous offerings, the 2009 Pilot is one inch wider and three inches longer in overall length and wheelbase.
