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February 19, 2009

Auto Briefs

The benefits of diesel, a local dealer's historic honor and Audi's new concept car

Diesel

Weigh the benefits of buying a diesel
To buy a diesel or not to buy a diesel; that's the question these days. The modern diesel is durable, quiet and virtually odorless, has lower tailpipe emissions than before and creates bountiful power in the low-rev range where most driving is done. But the downside is that diesel fuel, which used to cost less than gasoline, now costs more. The fuel-refining process has changed to remove most of the sulfur, a process that makes it more expensive. And extra emissions equipment usually means the purchase price of the vehicle is higher than that of an equivalent gas-powered vehicle. But over the long haul, a diesel will use far less fuel than a gasoline-powered vehicle, which is a major point worth considering, especially if oil prices begin to rise again.
--Wheelbase Communications

Pam Nelson

Local dealer's award is a historic honor
Pam Nelson, of Foothills Toyota-Scion in Burlington, was named a 2009 TIME Magazine Dealer of the Year Regional Finalist. She is Washington state's first woman to receive the award and one of only three Washington dealers to be named a finalist in the award's 40-year history. The award, the industry's most prestigious, recognizes new car and truck dealers for exceptional performance in their dealerships and distinguished community service.
--NWautos staff

Audi Concept

Audi Sportback concept
The stunningly elegant Sportback midsize concept car was arguably the most beautiful car at the North American International Auto Show last month. It features a powerful and fuel-efficient 3.0-liter diesel engine, Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a new seven-speed automatic transmission.
--Associated Press

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