GM Takes 'Soccer Mom' Out of New Sports Vans; Ford Thinks Small Cars While Boosting F-Series to Record Production; Kerkorian Kicks Chrysler While It's Down; Volvo Shifts Gears With Hipper, Safer New S40 - And More on TheCarConnection.com

DETROIT, Dec. 8, 2003 -- What do the all-new Buick Terrazza and Saturn Relay have in common? You won't hear General Motors call them minivans, for one thing. GM is aiming to break out of the "soccer mom" ghetto with these all-new "sports vans." Can it succeed? TheCarConnection.com has the complete story and a first look.

Ford is calling this the year of the car and will be rolling out a raft of new sedans at the upcoming Detroit auto show. It's also looking at the idea of a mini-sized model slotted in under the subcompact Focus. Find out more on TCC -- and then see why the automaker is also upping production of the new F-150, with the hopes of hitting all-time record sales.

DaimlerChrysler's in for a bruising battle as it squares off with Kirk Kerkorian. Get the latest on the angry investor's lawsuit and keep up on all the courtroom drama on TheCarConnection.

Meanwhile DCX is getting ready to roll out an American version of the hip little Smart car. Who's set to take charge? Check out the inside story, only on TCC.

With the new S40, Volvo intends to redefine the small car. It's smaller yet roomier, faster yet safer. Is it the right sedan for you? Read this week's review. This week's reviews also include the new Kia Amati, the 2004 Corvette convertible and the all-new Dodge Durango.

In business news, see why November's numbers were great news for GM and Toyota.

Then read our review of "Garage: Reinventing the Place We Park," a home enthusiast looks at how our cars' homes have redefined the space where we live.

And check our list of ten great holiday gifts for the auto enthusiast on your list.

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