Gas Prices May Be Scuttling U.S. Economy; New Clean Air Rules;, Spy Shots of '06 Explorer - TheCarConnection.com

DETROIT, Aug. 9, 2004 -- Just how far should the government go to ensure automotive safety? That's the question being asked as the result of proposed new rules that would require "black boxes" in every new car and truck. Will they really improve driving and uncover unexpected safety defects? Or is this simply a way to spy on drivers and hand out more tickets? This week's issue of http://thecarconnection.com/ has the inside story.

Gas prices are slowly settling back to manageable levels, but has the damage already been done? There are growing signs that recent, record prices at the pump are scuttling the nation's economic recovery. TCC has the report.

California regulators have laid out tough new emissions standards, but the auto industry is crying foul. TheCarConnection helps clear the air.

Bigger is better? Not necessarily. European automakers are out to prove that good things often come in small packages. Check TCC's review of the new Audi A3 to see for yourself. If you do want something big 'n bad, see how the new Hummer H2 SUT measures up. And for something completely different, read TCC's review of Scion's hip little xA.

This week's spy shots capture the 2006 Ford Explorer and the '06 Audi A6 Avant.

In business news: Jeep's new Toledo assembly plant could break all the rules; July car sales soared, even though GM slipped; Toyota tries to keep up with ... Toyota.

And catch all the inside news, gossip and insight that emerged from the Management Briefing Seminar, the year's most important industry summit. TheCarConnection was there and has a complete report.

What are recalls, and how and why might they affect your car? Got the answers in the weekly TCC Tip.

SUV grilles, ear-shaped air fresheners, a GPS for the rest of us, and more XM gear -- check out the latest in hip, hot automotive accessories.

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