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Ford rolls out 2010 model line

Ford's big stars for the 2010 model year are obviously the Mustang and Taurus. But less flashy--and perhaps nearly as important--are more subtle improvements throughout its product portfolio, including nicer interiors and a fine-tuned version of Sync that could help the Blue Oval win customers and improve its image in the marketplace. The idea is to fortify its lineup with refinements "experienced immediately in a five-minute test drive," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president of global product development.

Infiniti demands luxury look for Leaf variant

Infiniti executives are taking pains to ensure that their luxury version of the electric Nissan Leaf hatchback will be markedly different and more upscale. This year, U.S. officials of Infiniti reviewed initial designs at Nissan's San Diego styling studio and complained that they simply looked like another version of the Leaf, say people who were there.

Reviving the rotary: Two roads to redemption for Mazda's Wankel engine

Mazda is killing production of its famed rotary engine when the last RX-8 sports car rolls out of the plant next summer. But the company eyes two roads to resurrection. The first is using an improved engine as the main power plant.