Autoblog

Thinking of trading your gas-guzzling SUV in for something smaller, a bit more fuel efficient? You are not alone. The rocketing cost of gasoline, and diesel fuel, is having a ripple effect on the SUV market. With consumers trading in their behemoths by the thousands in exchange for more frugal transportation, dealers are stuck with a surplus of unwanted sport-utes sitting on their lots with values dissolving.

Diesel-burning trucks aren't immune either. As diesel fuel costs hovering about fifty cents per-gallon above gasoline, some of the bigger oil-burning SUVs and trucks are losing measurable resale by the day. Overall, according to CNW Marketing Research, used SUV sales were down 14% in March alone. With any surplus, come big discounts. It may be a ghastly time to fill a 30-gallon tank on an SUV, but it is the perfect time to negotiate with a dealer for that seven-passenger family truckster you've been fancying. No need to hurry -- there will be an even better selection tomorrow.

Thanks to Jim for the tip!

[Source: U.S. News and World Report]

Dodge unveiled its refreshened Durango for 2007 yesterday at the Dallas Auto Show with the announcement that in 2008 the company will be producing the Durango HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The HEV version of Dodge’s big brute ute will feature the company’s lauded 5.7L HEMI V8 mated to a two-mode hybrid system. The pair will achieve up to a 25-percent increase in fuel economy. Also of note is the availability of Dodge’s Multi-displacement System (MDS) that can power down the HEMI V8’s cylinders at will to save fuel and a new E85-compatible 4.7L flex-fuel V8.

As for the Durango’s new design, it’s restricted to a new grille, front and rear fascias and an optional set of dubs (read: 20-inch wheels). The inside is augmented with available second-row bucket seats for the first time.

Catch all of Dodge’s official pics and the company’s press release after the jump.

[Source: Dodge]