Acura in Search of Identity; Arnold Balances Autos and Environment; Suzuki Grows Up; Maserati Gets Four Doors; Chevy Malibu in Action; And SUV Wars Heat Up. That and more - on TheCarConnection.com!

DETROIT, Oct. 13, 2003 -- Is the budget crisis fixed yet? Gov. Arnold will find plenty of challenges when he assumes control of the world's fifth-largest economy. And the man who made HUMMER a household name will have to solve plenty of other problems, including California's smog. How will Gov.-elect Schwarzenegger deal with the auto industry? TheCarConnection.com has the story.

California environmentalists aren't the only ones taking aim at the gas- guzzling sport-utility vehicle. Torchings at dealers, tax penalties, and assault ads -- it's a war out there, and TCC goes to the front.

Japanese automakers have captured record share of the U.S. market. But not all nameplates are created equal. Japan's first luxury marque is struggling to redefine itself and reverse declining demand. See how the sporty new TL fits into Acura's broader search for identity. Then see how two new large cars fit into Suzuki's big plans.

Haven't gotten a ride in the TL yet? It's TheCarConnection's lead review this week. You'll also get a chance to test the all-new Chevrolet Malibu and see if it will gain ground in the mainstream market. Take a ride in the new Suzuki Verona and see if it's up to the competition.

And if you like two doors, you'll love what Maserati has done with four on the all-new Quattroporte. Will it kick-start the Italian automaker's revival? See for yourself on TheCarConnection.

Then catch a glimpse of the long-awaited, second-generation Mercedes M- Class. It won't hit dealers 'til 2005, but TCC's spies have shots this week, along with pictures of Maserati's '05 Coupe and Spyder.

Check out every car and truck on the road in TCC's '04 Buyer's Guide.

And don't get burned buying insurance. This week's TCC TIP will help you avoid costly mistakes.

Stay on top of the latest news, trends, tips and bargains with TheCarConnection's free newsletters: including Daily Edition, named Best-of- the-Web in the International Automotive Media Awards.

Let the OnSite Mechanic solve your service problems. Find Kelley Blue Book pricing, weekly racing results and more -- on the Web's Automotive Authority, TheCarConnection.com .

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