Toyota Camry SE

couple of nights in the Camry were fine, but nothing to write home about. The looks didn't do much for me, the interior was fine and the power was just OK. I know lots of people buy Camrys, but I can't say this car would be at the top of my list of midsize four-doors, especially given the sticker price.

At times, it felt like there was a period of hesitation to get up to speed, especially in passing. There was good legroom throughout, but I couldn't seem to get the driver's seat in a comfortable enough position, which I didn't like. I felt like I was sitting too far away.

For running around, and for toting along a family, I guess I can see why people flock to this car. I just wouldn't be one of them.

2010 Toyota Camry SE

Base Price: $23,915

As-Tested Price: $28,475

Drivetrain: 2.5-liter I4; FWD, six-speed automatic

Output: 179 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 171 lb-ft @ 4,100 rpm

Curb Weight: 3,329 lb

Fuel Economy: (EPA/AW) 26/26.2 mpg

Options: Voice activated DVD navigation system including integrated backup camera, premium sound, MP3/WMA playback, auxiliary audio jack, hands-free phone capability, streaming music, eight speakers ($2,820); moonroof package including power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade, dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors, rear personal reading lights ($890); smart key with push button start ($450); color-keyed rear lip spoiler ($200); carpet/trunk mat set ($200)

Chevrolet Cruze ECO

2011 Chevrolet Cruze ECO

Chevrolet starts delivering the Cruze sedan in the US this September at a minimum price of US$16,995 for the baseline LS trim, including destination. Coupled with this model is a 1.8-litre Ecotec engine making 103kW (138 bhp/ 140 PS), a 6-speed manual transmission, 10 airbags, traction control, ABS, air conditioning, power windows and a host of other features.

Other models include the LT with a 1.4-litre Ecotec turbo engine, 6-speed automatic transmission and 16-inch wheels; the Eco model starts at US$18,895 and features 17-inch alloys, ultra low-rolling resistance tyres and an expected 40 mpg on the highway, as well as the features-packed LZT starting at US$22,695.

A list of options including a 40 GB hard drive, a Pioneer sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, heated leather seats and rear park assist can be ticket off the menu before purchase.

Auto Trader GM Pays Back Remaining $5.8 Billion in Loans to U.S. and Canada

Good news to all you GM investors out there: the General has just wrapped-up paying back its US Treasury / Export Development Canada loans while also investing $257 million in prepping its Malibu plants in Fairfax, Kansas (primary) and Detroit Hamtramck (secondary).

The total payment was $5.8 billion ($4.7 bilion to the US and the remaining $1.1 billion to Canada). According to a report from Automotive News, "the governments still own equity stakes in GM."

GM CEO Ed Whitacre had this to say: "GM's ability to pay back the loans ahead of schedule is a sign that our plan is working, and that we are on the right track. It is also an important first step toward allowing our stockholders to reduce their equity investments in GM."

That said, it should be noted GM's March sales are up 36% from the previous year, thanks to popular crossover models throughout the range (Equinox, Traverse, Terrain, Acadia, SRX), the 5th-generation Camaro, and the mid-size Malibu and Lacrosse (with a 58% growth in deliveries for the first quarter of 2010).

For a breakdown of what's being built where, scroll down for an excerpt from the press release.

"Fairfax will become the primary source for the next generation of the Malibu. Detroit Hamtramck, which builds the Buick Lucerne and Cadillac DTS [being "wound down"], will be equipped to build the Malibu as well, ensuring that Chevrolet can meet market demand.

Detroit Hamtramck will also build the Chevy Volt electric vehicle with extended range, which launches this year. On March 31, the plant celebrated a major milestone, the building of the first pre-production Volt on the regular assembly line.

The Malibu-related investments of $136 million in Fairfax and $121 million in Detroit Hamtramck will include facilities, machinery and equipment, and tools."