Lexus LF-Ch preview

Following on from a front three-quarter sketch released to the press last week, Lexus has given us a good view of its Premium Compact Concept from the rear - along with its proper name: LF-Ch. Equipped with Lexus's Hybrid Drive system, this BMW 1 Series rival will be able to run on both electric and gasoline when it goes on sale in 2010. The car's full volumes, raked-back windscreen and aggressive new variation on Lexus's corporate nose are visible from the sketch, while the new rear image confirms that the newcomer will combine the looks of a coupe with the practicality of four doors.

Celebrity chef offers sweet reward for help in finding his stolen Corvette

Here's a sweet deal: Help find a black 1962 Chevrolet Corvette stolen from celebrity pastry chef Duff Goldman, and he'll give you a lifetime supply of birthday cakes. Goldman, star of Ace of Cakes on the Food Network, says the Vette was boosted from his brother's driveway in Sherman Oaks, Calif., last week while he was out of town for work. "I'm pretty sure I'll never get my car back," Goldman told the Los Angeles Times, "so I hope whoever has it loves it as much as I do, drives it as fast as I did and plays the radio as loud as I did.

Chevrolet to add the Sonic name, drop Aveo on its next subcompact

Chevrolet will drop Aveo and adopt a new name - Sonic - when its remodeled entry-level subcompact debuts next year. Chevrolet and General Motors Co, officials have been considering a name change for the subcompact sedan since October. GM North America President Mark Reuss said confusion over how to pronounce “Aveo” had sparked the desire for a change.