A Nation at War and the Auto Industry Gears Up for the Battle and What Will Come Afterwards; TheCarConnection.com Weighs in on the Impact on Sales, Fuel Prices, Auto Stocks and More, Along With Weekly News, Reviews and Spy Shots

DETROIT, March 24 -- America fights in the Middle East -- but what effect will war have on gas prices, car sales and auto stocks? TheCarConnection.com team, deeply embedded in the auto industry, examines automakers' battle plans, runs down the rapid rise in autostocks last week, polls gas prices, and looks at what may come to lure nervous consumers back to the market.

As TCC reports, gasoline prices have suddenly stabilized after surging to record levels. What will the war mean? And the decision on Capitol Hill to block drilling in the Alaskan wilderness?

As the Bush Administration digs in for a tough battle in the Mideast, it could have a domestic fight on its hands ordering radical changes to decades- old federal fuel economy standards. Will the new rules favor cars over trucks, force automakers to sell small, fuel-efficient vehicles no one wants, or eliminate the biggest, most gas-thirsty SUVs? TheCarConnection has the complete story.

You'll also find tips on picking the best gas for your car. Do you really need the expensive stuff? Find out at TheCarConnection.com

Is there a place for military technology in civilian cars? The new Jaguar XJ8 is a secret British aerospace program hidden atop four wheels, TCC reviewers report. Then take a spin in the updated Jaguar XKR coupe. Has Buick finally launched a contender with the Park Avenue Ultra? Check the review, and also go for a ride in the updated Acura MDX. It may look the same, but there's plenty new under the skin.

And TCC's spy photographers capture pics of one of the hottest products scheduled for launch at the upcoming New York Auto Show, the rear-drive LX sedan, replacing the popular Chrysler 300M.

So you think your car is well maintained? You might want to think again after checking this week's TCC Tip: overlooked service. And for all your maintenance needs, get answers from our OnSite Mechanic.

Stay on top of the latest news, trends, tips and bargains with TheCarConnection's free newsletters: Daily Edition for the industry insider, and Weekly Car Guide for smart consumers.

You'll find Kelley Blue Book pricing, weekly racing results, TCC's OnSite Mechanic and more -- on the Web's Automotive Authority, TheCarConnection.com .

Web users also can access TheCarConnection through the PR Newswire site www.prnewswire.com .