Autos
* The 2009 Hyundai Genesis and 2009 Ford F-150 are North American Car and Truck of the Year. A panel of 50 journalists from the U.S. and Canada chose these two from more than 50 new or redesigned models. The winners were announced last week at the Detroit Auto Show.
* Lincoln has introduced a new concept, the Lincoln C, at the Detroit Auto Show. The C is a small car aimed at buyers in urban centers who are looking for luxury in a compact package. It sports a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine with a dual-clutch six-speed transmission and averages 43 m.p.g. on the highway. It also offers the Sync connectivity network.
* Porsche plans to unveil the Panamera at Auto Shanghai 2009 April 19 in China. The four-door Gran Turismo will hit U.S dealerships in the fall.
Recalls
* Chrysler is recalling 176 2009 300 and Dodge Charger and Challenger cars to check tire-pressure monitor sensors.
* Subaru is recalling 5,130 2008-09 Tribeca SUVs to ensure a sensor that affects handling is installed properly.
* Mercedes-Benz is recalling 577 2008 GL-, M- and R-Class vehicles. A defect in the driving pin used to control fluid pressure can limit steering wheel operation.
FYI
* Toyota plans to shift to cash rebates from no-interest loans it has been using in the U.S., says Jim Lentz, U.S. sales president.
* Avis Budget Group plans to offer the AT&T entertainment service, which provides network TV programming, in rental vehicles starting this spring.
* Illinois Tollway has opened the final piece of the reconfigured Naperville Road Interchange on the Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88). The Freedom Drive connector provides access to Diehl Road on the south and Warrenville Road on the north.
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Quick Trips are compiled from Tribune news services.
