Cash for clunkers: Is it ready for prime time in America?

One proposed solution to prop up new-car sales in the United States involves paying bonuses to owners of older vehicles who send their cars to the scrapyard and buy new ones. Proponents say that not only does the auto industry benefit, but so does the environment, as emissions decrease and fuel economy typically improves in newer models. Critics, however, say that scrapping older vehicles hurts collectors by reducing the number of older models available and also hurts those least able to afford to buy newer vehicles by driving up the price of used cars.

Ford B-Max concept (2011) at 2011 Geneva motor show

If ever a concept car was just a thinly disguised production car, this is it – this is the Ford B-Max, just unveiled on the eve of the 2011 Geneva motor show. That’s right, and when the B-Max goes on sale in early 2012 it’ll finally be time to bid goodbye to the bland Fusion. On the outside the styling is the latest iteration of Ford’s ‘kinetic design’ DNA, and mixes S-Max, C-Max, Focus and Fiesta elements to create a decent looking little MPV.

AutoWeek Fantasy Camp: Follow along with the fun this weekend

The 2011 AW/ZF Fantasy Camp starts this Friday, May 13, then hits the track Saturday. Be sure to check autoweek.com and our special Fantasy Camp page to see what our participants think of this year's crop of performance vehicles. They'll get on-track experience plus breakout sessions that cover ride, handling and performance.