RSSDrive Times With Jim Jackson

Scion FR–S pumps youth–driven brand

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Toyota's Scion Division drives deeper the youth market with the arrival of the 2013 Scion FR–S sport coupe this week.

Dodge hits the marque with new Dart

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Dodge Dart returns to the road after a 36-year hiatus targeted at compact car buyers looking for value with an Italian spin.

Buick assists a new image

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

General Motors washes the gray out of its Buick Division with the 2012 Buick LaCrosse with eAssist.

Mazda SkyActiv goes the distance

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Japanese automaker Mazda joins the 40–plus mileage club with SkyActiv technology.

Abarth punctuates Fiat 500 lineup

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Write

Chrysler Group's Fiat brand takes to the road with high–performance swagger wrapped in the race–inspired 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth Hatchback.

Equinox shines with roomy style

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Consumers interested in a value–packed crossover sport utility vehicle should add the midsize 2012 Chevrolet Equinox to their shopping list.

M56 lays down power; panache

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

In the 1960s, they were called "sleepers" – plain wrapper sedans that looked tame on the surface but hid a high–output engine that challenged some of the most formidable Detroit–built muscle cars of the era.

Ram C/V hauls commercial needs

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Small business owners helped build America. Today, a pioneer of U.S. auto manufacturing helps them build their trade.

ZL1 ignites muscle car mettle

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Hammering the throttle of the 2012 Camaro ZL1 turns a new chapter in Chevrolet's muscle car history.

Small c joins Prius portfolio

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Toyota grows bigger with a small version of its top-selling Prius hybrid.

Mercedes ML63 redefines SUV segment

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Last week's warm weather heralded the arrival of the hot 2012 Mercedes–Benz ML63 AMG to the Midwest marketplace.

Driving a drop-top winter

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

This year's mild winter opens thoughts of an early spring. For convertible owners, warm weather is the lure that reels them closer to the open-air driving season.

VW Beetle flexes new muscle

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

German auto giant Volkswagen pumps up its "people's car" with the muscular styling of the 2012 Beetle.

Ford Fusion bonds new styling

Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Two words came to mind when the redesigned 2013 Ford Fusion was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show last month: Aston Martin.

Chicago show opens 4–door newcomers

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

CHICAGO | A new freshman steps into the compact car segment on the final day of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show for a look–back to the Class of 1976 and the return of the Chrysler–built Dodge Dart.

Toyota draws interactive show interest

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

CHICAGO | Toyota's youth brand Scion brings thunder to a new exhibit that centers on the 2013 Scion FR–S compact sports car at this year's auto show.

MKZ shows off new Lincoln look

By Jim Jackson Times Auto Writer

Today's Super Bowl at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis and Friday's start of the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place focuses the spotlight sharply on the Midwest this week.