In The Car Connection This Week

DETROIT, Dec. 16, 2002; What's the best car on the road? The one that's right for you, and that depends on your individual needs and desires. So the editors at TheCarConnection.com have put together a Best-of-the-Best list that has something special for everyone.

Top truck? The tough-as-nails Dodge Ram Hemi. Best sedan? A hard-fought tie between the new Honda Accord and the surprisingly strong Mazda 6. Nissan claims kudos in the sports car category with the hot 350Z, while the Honda Pilot and Land Rover Range Rover pull off another tie, bookending the SUV segment. For a complete list of winners and top runners-up, turn to TheCarConnection, the Web's Automotive Authority.

While you're there, see spy shots of two of tomorrow's hot prospects, the 2004 Lexus RX330, the replacement for the ever-popular RX300 crossover/SUV, and the '04 Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabrio.

This week's reviews include some elegant examples of performance and upscale refinement, including the new, 12-cylinder BMW 760Li, and the Lincoln LS. For those looking for something a bit more affordable, there's the spry Hyundai Tiburon GT V-6.

All you want for Christmas? If you've already got those two front teeth, then check out TCC's gift side for the automotive-minded. Gadgets and great ideas galore.

In business news, the number two exec at the number two automaker sees some light at the end of the tunnel. TheCarConnection.com talks shop with Ford COO Nick Scheele in an exclusive Q&A. Faltering Fiat's problems are threatening to create havoc for General Motors, which has a variety of its own challenges to deal with. Satellite radio promises plenty of high-quality, commercial-free music -- for a price. But is it about to be knocked out of orbit? And see why Saturn is looking up -- finally.

Forget the holidays. Auto show season rings in the New Year, but you won't have to wait for the annual fireworks in Los Angeles and Detroit, at least not if you turn to TheCarConnection.com this week for a pair of exclusive previews capturing most of the more than 75 cars, trucks and crossovers that will make their formal debuts next month.

Learn to drive like a pro from one of the masters. In this month's installment, Bob Bondurant shows you how to handle an Emergency. And this week's TCC Tip turns to better Winter driving.

And before you sign on the bottom line, let TCC tell you the ins-and-outs of extended warranties.

You'll find weekly racing results, TCC's OnSite Mechanic and more -- on the Web's Automotive Authority, TheCarConnection.com .

Web users also can access TheCarConnection through the PR Newswire site www.prnewswire.com .