Question of the Day: Which Car Has Better Gas Mileage, the 2008 Honda Accord or the 2008 Volkswagen Passat?

It seems like such an easy question: Just look up the fuel economy ratings and give me the numbers, right? Not so fast. With a range of transmission and engine options, the ratings of the Passat and Accord vary wildly depending on which version of each vehicle you're looking at. Ask.cars.com does its best to break down the options and ratings so you can get a feel for the mileage differences before taking a test drive.

Which car has better gas mileage, the 2008 Honda Accord or the 2008 Volkswagen Passat? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What's a Double-Clutch Gearbox?

Gearboxes/transmissions are some of the most complicated mechanical components in a car. Today’s Ask.cars.com questioner isn’t too concerned with the exact inner workings, but simply wants to know what it means for the driver to have a car equipped with a double-clutch gearbox. That’s not too much to ask, right?

What's a double-clutch gearbox?

Question of the Day: What Makes and Models Can You Get In-Dash GPS Systems In?

In-dash GPS systems used to be a perk exclusive to luxury rides, but this is far from the case anymore. Now, GPS systems appear in a whole range of vehicles, though they’re typically tied to a larger multimedia system that can add a good chunk of change to the purchase price of a vehicle. Ask.cars.com explains how you can find a car or truck with the type of GPS system you're looking for.

What makes and models can you get in-dash GPS systems in? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Are There any Hybrid Cars With Adjustable Pedals or Telescopic Steering Wheels?

If you want to join the ranks of fuel-conscious drivers but also need adjustability in the driver's seat to accommodate your height or build, your choices will be limited to a few vehicles. Ask.cars.com found all the hybrid vehicles that have telescoping steering wheels, but only one also comes with adjustable pedals. Click on the jump to find out the answer.

Are there any hybrid cars with adjustable pedals or telescopic steering wheels? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What's Safer, Audi A3 or BMW 3 Series?

When interpreting the safety of vehicles, we like to use the ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, particularly their annual Top Safety Picks. One of these vehicles earned that top honor, but still it's important to have a full grasp of what goes into a car's rating. Ask.cars.com explains what the ratings mean and how you should interpret them before buying a car.

What's Safer: The Audi A3 or the BMW 3 Series? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: How Do I Compare Cars Side by Side?

How do you compare cars side by side? Well, that's simple: Go out and purchase each of the two to five cars you want to look at, take them home, park them in your driveway, examine each and every one for the specific issues you have in mind, then return all the vehicles you don't care for (be sure to keep the receipts!). Or you could just use Cars.com's Side-by-Side comparison tool. Ask.cars.com explains how.

How do I compare cars side by side? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which Chevrolet Equinox Should I Buy?

The Chevy Equinox has four trim levels, and today's questioner is really, really concerned about which trim she should buy. Obviously, this depends on how much money she wants to spend and what kind of features are important to her. As usual, Ask.cars.com can details all the ins and outs of this decision. The rest is up to the buyer.

Which Chevrolet Equinox should I buy? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Is Hyundai's Warranty Transferable?

Whether you're selling your vehicle or buying a used one, it's incredibly important to know every last detail of the warranty information. The bumper-to-bumper warranty and the powertrain warranty are two different issues, and while one may transfer, the other may not. Ask.cars.com breaks down both of Hyundai's warranties.

Is Hyundai's 10-Year/100,000-Mile Warranty Transferable? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: How Does the Ford Escape Hybrid's A/C Work?

You don't necessarily need to own a Ford Escape Hybrid to appreciate this question. As with most hybrids, the Escape Hybrid's A/C relies on the electric motor that powers the car. Therefore, if the vehicle's engine isn't running the A/C won't either. Ask.cars.com explains the details and how to get some cool air from those vents with the engine off.

How does the Ford Escape Hybrid's A/C Work? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What About Smaller Drivers?

For driver's under 5 feet, there are legitimate concerns about airbag safety. If they deploy during an accident, the airbags can occasionally cause severe damage to drivers positioned too closely to the steering wheel. There are several different ways to address this, and Ask.cars.com lays out the choices — from adjusting the seat correctly to getting permission to deactivate the airbag.

What options are there for smaller drivers concerned about airbag safety? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Should I Buy a Toyota Prius or Honda Civic Hybrid?

Two of the heavy-hitters of the hybrid world right now are Toyota's Prius and Honda's Civic Hybrid. Which vehicle is right for you? As with most car-buying decisions, it depends on your needs. Ask.cars.com can only lay out the pros and cons of each vehicle so you can make an informed choice.

Should I buy a Toyota Prius or Honda Civic Hybrid? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: I'm 16, Looking for a Used Car Less Than $10,000

Our young questioner wants a vehicle that’s fast and reliable, with at least six cylinders, and he wants the whole shebang for under 10 grand. He certainly came to the right place. Ask.cars.com has a specific recommendation that should meet his needs. Sometimes, though, you can't have it all. Our friend may have to pay a bit more for the engine he wants, or lose two cylinders for a more reasonable price.

I'm 16 and looking for a used car for less than $10,000 (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What's the Difference Between Diesel and Regular Gasoline?

If you're even a passing reader of KickingTires, you've probably noticed how much we talk about the possible resurgence of diesel-powered vehicles. Already a hit in Europe, clean-diesel technology has made diesel fuel "green." Ask.cars.com explains the difference between diesel fuel and gasoline, as well as how that difference affects the environment.

What’s the difference between diesel fuel and regular gasoline? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Where Can I Find Invoice Prices?

Going to Cars.com's website and asking where you can find invoice pricing for a specific vehicle is like going to Idaho and asking where you can find a good potato. It's like going to Georgia and wondering where you'll find a tasty peach. It's like—okay, you probably get the idea. Yep, Ask.cars.com can point you to the right place for invoice pricing as well as a smart target price when you decide to buy.

Where on the internet can I go to find invoice prices on a 2008 Toyota? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Is There a Car that Starts with ''A''?

Every once in a while Ask.cars.com gets a complete curveball question, but that's OK, because we like a challenge. Listing all the vehicle models that begin with the letter "A" is just one of many ways we can prove our car mettle. Next time, give us something hard, like how many individual bolts and screws go into a 2008 Ford Focus. That'll keep our research department busy for a while.

Is there a car that starts with "A"? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which Vehicles Come with Eight Seats?

Maybe you have a large family. Maybe you own a small business. Maybe you're starting your own basketball team. Whatever the reason, sometimes you just need space in which to cram as many bodies as possible. Likely, you're looking for a minivan, crossover, or full-size SUV, but whatever your preference, Ask.cars.com has a few suggestions.

Which vehicles come with eight seats? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: When Will There Be a Diesel Honda Pilot or Acura MDX?

Now that the technology exists to make them burn cleaner, automakers are giving diesel engines renewed attention. Consumers have yet to catch up to the trend. However, today we have a question that might forecast a growing interest in clean diesel vehicles. When we can expect specific diesel models in North America is a tough call, but Ask.cars.com has some dates to look forward to.

When can we expect a diesel engine in the Honda Pilot or MDX here in North America? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What's a Good Safe Car for a New Driver?

If you've just gotten your driver's license and you don't have to drive that beat-up hand-me-down inherited from your mom or aunt or older sibling (the majority of the time this car is a Volkswagen first built when Jimmy Carter was president), there are some good options out there for first-time drivers. Ask.cars.com has assembled a team of critics to give their suggestions, but one vehicle in particular has Ask's highest recommendation.

As a new driver on the road, what would be a good safe car to drive? (Ask.cars.com)

Will the Four-Wheel Drive 2009 Pilot Have VCM?

Will the 2009 Honda Pilot have VCM? What is Variable Cylinder Management anyway? If you’re interested in a 2009 Pilot, it’s probably important you know the answer to the first question. If you’re a car buyer in general, it’s probably important to know why VCM will help you conserve fuel in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Ask.cars.com has the answers to both.

Will the 2009 Pilot have VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) in the four-wheel-drive version? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What Vehicles Have Standard Side Curtain Airbags?

Side curtain airbags are one of the most promising developments in vehicle safety in the last decade. They extend from the ceiling to protect the head during side impact accidents, and can be instrumental in saving lives during crashes. Ask.cars.com explains why side-curtain and side-impact airbags may soon become standard safety features on nearly all vehicles, and explains how you can check if they’re in the vehicle you want.

What vehicles come standard with side curtain airbags? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which SUVs or minivans have easy access to the third row?

Our questioner today is looking for a SUV or minivan with a second row that doesn’t need to be folded or moved in order to reach the third row. Why? Baby seats, that’s why. Those baby seats can be difficult to remove and install every time someone needs to get into the third row. To save time and effort, we listed SUVs and minivans with captain’s chair seating as well as two models with a unique second-row feature that should do the trick.

Which SUVs or minivans have easy access to the third row? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Is a Honda Accord Coupe Better Than the Nissan Altima Coupe?

"Better" is such a loaded word. Is LeBron James "better" than Kobe Bryant? Is an apple "better" than an orange? Is Ask.cars.com "better" at answering car questions than any other source in the history of time itself? It's difficult for us to say that the Accord is a better car than the Altima, but we do have a preference. Check out our reasoning at Ask.cars.com.

Is a Honda Accord coupe better than the Nissan Altima coupe? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What Do You Think of the 2008 Toyota Highlander?

The 2008 Toyota Highlander marks a long-overdue redesign for a vehicle that debuted way back in 2001. The Highlander now faces severe competition from other crossovers, especially the redesigned Honda Pilot, which will arrive at dealerships this summer. Ask.cars.com weighs in on the new Highlander and warns Toyota that one of its most important vehicles must now compete with a few other heavy hitters.

What do you think of the new 2008 Toyota Highlander? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What's a Good Way to Get a Fair Price When Leasing a Car?

You drive less than 15,000 miles a year, and you get bored driving the same vehicle for longer than three or four years. If that describes you, leasing might be the thing for you. Once you know you want to lease, it's important to do your research, scout out the best deals for the vehicles you want and walk into the dealership armed with that knowledge. For more on the particulars of leasing, check out Ask.cars.com.

What's a good way to get a fair price when leasing a car? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which Midsize SUV With 4WD Should I Buy?

With nearly 40 midsize SUVs to choose from, this answer is going to be hard to pin down. As with buying any car, the decision usually comes down to personal preference, but Ask.cars.com can certainly point you in the right direction. After that, it will be up to you to pick among our Best Bets and decide which vehicles you want to take for a test drive.

Which midsize SUV with 4WD should I buy? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: When Will the Next-Generation Toyota Prius Be Available?

Seeing as it’s the best-selling hybrid on the market — as well as the one that has the highest mileage ratings — there’s lots of anticipation for the next-generation Prius. While we don’t have much info on the car itself, today on Ask.cars.com we share what we do know about the third generation’s launch date.

When will the next-generation Toyota Prius be available? (AskCars)

Question of the Day: Should I Buy a Toyota Corolla or Chevrolet Cobalt?

Today’s reader puts it right out there for us: Between the 2008 Corolla and 2008 Cobalt, which one would you choose? There are cash-back rebates on the Cobalt, but then there’s a new 2009 Corolla that will undoubtedly have an impact — likely a good, money-saving impact — on shoppers feelings about the 2008 model. See Ask.cars.com for our answer:

Should I buy a Toyota Corolla or Chevrolet Cobalt? (AskCars)

Question of the Day: What's a Good Two-Wheel-Drive Crossover, SUV or Wagon?

Chad wants the cargo space that comes with a larger vehicle, but is sick of coughing up so much money every time he fills the tank in his Jeep Liberty. We have a few recommendations that might accommodate his needs — vehicles Ask.cars.com refers to as "the usual suspects." These are the tried-and-true vehicles we've found do the job time and time again for people with this particular set of needs. But there are a few surprise recommendations.

What's a good two-wheel-drive crossover, SUV or Wagon? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What Does MSRP Mean?

We bet you'd like to know the answer to that question right now, wouldn't you? You want to save time by hearing the words behind that acronym right here and now. Sorry, but you'll have to click over to Ask.cars.com not only to find out what MSRP stands for, but also what it means to you as a car-buyer and why you should know it before walking into a dealership.

What does MSRP mean? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which AWD Car Should I Buy?

It's tough to get the best of both worlds. By choosing an all-wheel-drive vehicle, it's unlikely that you're going to get stellar gas mileage, but if AWD is important because of where you live or your general driving conditions, safety generally comes first. With all this in mind, Ask.cars.com has a few specific recommendations for vehicles to test drive.

Which AWD car should I buy that isn't too expensive, big or a gas hog? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Would You Recommend the Volvo V70 or the Saab 9-5 Wagon?

We were so thrilled to open our inbox and find a wagon question waiting for us. With very few automakers venturing into wagon terrain these days, it gives us a chance to flex our underutilized wagon-knowledge muscle. In this case, Ask.cars.com has found that our reviewers have a very specific preference between the V70 and 9-5. Check it out to see which one gets our nod.

Would you recommend the Volvo V70 or the Saab 9-5 Wagon? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which American-Made Small SUV Should I Buy?

As always, recommending an "American-made" vehicle is a difficult proposition. Which is more important, that the car come from an American brand or that it be mostly assembled in the United States? Keeping this in mind, Ask.cars.com can make several limited recommendations for small SUVs, but it will be up to the buyer to decide which factor is most important.

Which American-made small SUV should I buy? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Out of the Honda Fit, Toyota Matrix and Nissan Versa, Which Do You Prefer?

Today we've got another straightforward car comparison question. This one is a bit tricky, though, because we haven't gotten our grubby Cars.com mitts on the new Toyota Matrix yet to put it through the ringer. Having said that, Ask.cars.com can give you an excellent side-by-side analysis of the Versa and the Fit by weighing factors like fuel economy, price range, size and any incentives kicking around.

Out of the Honda Fit, Toyota Matrix, and Nissan Versa, which do you prefer? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What is the Best Base-Model Sedan for the Money?

Ah, nothing gets the blood pumping quite like a head-to-head-to-head battle of midsize sedans. Our questioner wants us to look only at the initial price and cost of ownership of the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima, but come on, that's hardly fair. What about the ride? Tell you what: We'll give you the pricing and ownership cost information, but you have to promise to take into account Ask.cars.com's feelings about the intangibles as well.

What is the Best Base-Model Sedan for the Money? Accord, Altima or Camry? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What Do You Think of the Scion xB?

Ask.cars.com has so many opinions on so many topics: We care passionately about urban renewal, college basketball, new malaria treatments and opera, among other things. Yet day after day it seems all people want to know about is cars, cars, cars. Oh well, we do know a lot about them, too. So what do we think about the Scion xB? We'll tell you what we think about the Scion xB. Come to Ask.cars.com and find out.

What do you think of the Scion xB? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Why is My Subaru's Mileage Low?

We had a driver in a brand-new 2008 Subaru Impreza ask us why his car wasn’t giving him the gas mileage promised on the sticker when he bought the car. In fact, he says it's getting five to 10 mpg less than advertised. It could be, however, that the engine is still calibrating and adjusting. Ask.cars.com explains what this means.

Why is my Subaru's mileage low? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What SUV Do You Recommend?

A reader is considering gas mileage, Safety, room and reliability. This list of factors isn’t all that different from what most car-buyers want out of a vehicle. As always, though, Ask.cars.com can’t point you to a specific vehicle. What we can do is give you a few options that meet your initial criteria. In the end, it's always up to the buyer to decide which factor trumps the others and what is most important in a vehicle.

What SUV do you recommend, considering gas mileage, safety, room and reliability? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Will AWD Hurt Gas Mileage?

If you're choosing between front- and all-wheel-drive versions of the same vehicle, there are a few factors you should consider. Of course, it's helpful to think about what kind of climate you live in and what kind of terrain you'll regularly deal with, but another important consideration is gas mileage. Ask.cars.com explains why an all-wheel-drive vehicle will cost you a bit more at the pump.

Will AWD hurt gas mileage compared to a FWD car? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Should I Avoid Purchasing the 2008 Ford Fusion Because it Doesn't Have Stability Control?

Although it's primarily a feature associated with SUVs and crossovers, stability control is a fantastic addition for any car buyer concerned about safety. Does that make it absolutely necessary for any small car? It depends on how much you want to spend and what type of climate you plan to drive in. Ask.cars.com can give you further advice on how important stability control will be to you.

Should I avoid purchasing the 2008 Ford Fusion because it doesn't have stability control? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which Car or SUV Has a Lot of Hip and Shoulder Room?

For larger car buyers, one of the most important factors when considering a vehicle is comfort. If you feel squished every time you take a drive, you're going to begin to dread even the shortest of trips. While Ask.cars.com can't tell you which SUV or crossover will be the best fit for any individual, we can certainly set you up with interior dimensions that can get you started.

Which car or SUV has a lot of hip and shoulder room? (Ask.cars.com)

Today on Mother Proof: Bertha Benz and the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Previewed

OK, this is perfect: When Courtney Messenbaugh previewed the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (finding it enticing, to say the least), it just so happened to be Women's History Month. This led her to Bertha Benz, the influential wife of Mercedes-Benz co-creator, Karl Benz. Find out all about Bertha and how she earned a place alongside her husband in automotive history.

Even Greater Woman Behind Great Car (Mother Proof)
2008 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Preview (Mother Proof)

Question of the Day: Will There Be More Incentives on 2008 Models?

With everyone and their dog talking about how the economy is slowing (and we won't even mention the dreaded r-word), one reader wanted to know if this would mean better deals on cars and trucks in the coming months. Ask.cars.com put the question to several members of our staff and found a general consensus that, indeed, this summer would be a good time to look for incentives from dealers. Read the full comments on Ask.cars.com.

With the economy in a slowdown, will there be more incentives on 2008 models? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What Color Leather Interior Should I Buy?

Black, gray, beige, ultra-bright neon yellow? Choosing a leather color is mostly an aesthetic choice, and mostly up to the driver's own sense of taste and style. Still, there are advantages and disadvantages to any interior. Beige could show dirt faster, but black could heat up in the summer. Ask.cars.com can't tell you which interior you would prefer, but we can offer you guidance, as always.

What color leather interior should I buy? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What is the Best 2008 Sedan for Around $300 a Month?

It shouldn't be that difficult to find a decent sedan for under $300 a month on a lease. If you have a specific car in mind, we can target your area and see what kind of deals dealerships are offering. If not, Ask.cars.com can at least narrow down your choices and lay out the best options available.

What is the Best 2008 Sedan I Can Get for Around $300 a Month on a 36-Month Lease? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What's New on the 2009 Toyota Camry?

The answer: Bucket seats, laser beams and a three-person Jacuzzi on the roof. OK, the real answer is that the 2009 Camry is a carryover from '08, so not much has changed, except for the pricing. Ask.cars.com can still supply you with a full pricing breakdown that rolls out all the differences. Still, maybe Toyota will at least consider our Jacuzzi idea?

What is new on the new 2009 Toyota Camry? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What are the Pros and Cons of Owning a Saab?

So, you're in the market for a Saab? We're sure you have plenty of questions about the estimated cost of maintenance, the warranty and how it stacks up against its competitors. Before you even narrow it down to a specific vehicle, Ask.cars.com can help you decide if you want to buy a Saab in the first place.

What are the common pros and cons for owning a Saab? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Should I Buy a Honda Ridgeline RTS or a Ford Explorer Sport Trac?

Ah, another Side-by-Side Comparison for Ask.cars.com. The two trucks in question come in several trims, so we pitted them against each other at relatively similar price levels and compared the different features and options. We even threw in a bonus: Three of our top reviewers compare the trucks and weigh in on what choice they would make. Find all that info and decide for yourself on Ask.cars.com.

Should I buy a Honda Ridgeline RTS or a Ford Explorer Sport Trac? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which American-Made Small Car Has the Best Gas Mileage at an Economy Price?

Today's question pits the Chevy Aveo against the Ford Focus. While both cars get comparable gas mileage, there is a slight price difference. Oh, it should also be noted that only one of these American-branded cars is actually made in the United States. Find out which one at Ask.cars.com.

Which American-made small car has the best gas mileage at an economy price? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Should I Buy a Two-Door or Four-Door Car?

Often, a two-door version of a car will have a different driving feel than the four-door version of that model has. On the other hand, a four-door is often more practical for a number of reasons. The question is, what are you looking for? A sportier ride, or more space to pile in friends and family? Ask.cars.com has some specific recommendations depending on your answer.

Should I buy a two-door or four-door car? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: What Cars Will Be Available With Diesel Engines for 2008?

We at KickingTires have made it clear that we are very intrigued by the potential of clean diesel technology and its impact as an alternative to gasoline engines. Unfortunately, the American car buyer doesn’t seem to share our interest. While diesels are all the rage in Europe, they have yet to catch on in the States. Ask.cars.com has the scoop on diesels available in the U.S. this year.

What cars will be available with diesel engines for 2008? (Ask.cars.com)

Question of the Day: Which Small SUV Has the Highest Safety Rating?

Several SUVs received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest safety rating, so it’s not so much a matter of which small SUV in particular is the absolute safest. Ask.cars.com can give you the list of those SUVs, though, so you can figure out what else is important to you in a vehicle before making your final decision.

Which small SUV has the highest safety rating? (Ask.cars.com)