AutoShowbiz

VIDEO: Trailer for "Crazy Heart"

2009-12-23T13:10:23Z

December 23, 2009 - If there's anything that America loves more than a comeback story about a star who had fallen, only to rise again like a phoenix, it's a comeback story involving an aging musician. Preferably a country western musician. JEFF BRIDGES plays a down-and-out has-been whose star once shone brightly; now it's a life that he only sees in his memories. But a cross-country drive in a red-and-white CHEVROLET SUBURBAN from the mid-1970s gives him the inspiration to make melodies again. Sure, it's a hackneyed concept, but we'll pretty much watch anything that Jeff "The Dude" Bridges is in. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Last Song"

2009-12-18T13:07:56Z

December 18, 2009 - Bring the tissues because you're gonna need 'em; not only because this movie is based on a Nicholas Sparks novel, which tend to be treacly weepers, but also because it stars MILEY CYRUS, who tends to bring out the mother in all of us. This teen, who is growing up before our very eyes, plays a teen who's growing up, and finds love and reconciliation with her father during her last summer before college. She's dropped off in her dad's beachy resort town for the summer in her mother's VOLVO 740 WAGON from the mid-80s. It wasn't the flashiest of vehicles, but it was stout and reliable, and kept you safe from ugly outside world, much like a parent. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Death at a Funeral"

2009-12-17T15:58:44Z

December 17, 2009 - Gather some of the most talented names around a movie about deception involving a corpse, and what do you have? No, not "Weekend at Bernie's 5," but "Death at a Funeral." CHRIS ROCK plays a bereaved son who finds that he didn't know his deceased father as well as he thought; hilarity ensues. And of course, it's not a funeral unless there's a hearse; the one in this movie is a hearse based on a CADILLAC DTS. We've noticed that here in the States, there's only two choices when it comes to your final chariot; the Caddy or one based on the LINCOLN TOWN CAR. We think there's a big market for those who would prefer to make their exit in something flashier. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Wonderful World"

2009-12-11T16:28:30Z

December 11, 2010 - There was once a time in the not-too-distant past when interracial romance was frowned upon. Now, it's all the rage, at least as portrayed in the movies. In "Wonderful World," MATTHEW BRODERICK plays a down-and-out divorced dad who finds love and inspiration in an African woman. We know life has treated him roughly because he drives a GEO METRO from the 80s. While the Metro was the butt of many an automotive joke (the base model was sold brand-new without any kind of hubcaps), but it was certainly forward-thinking when it came to fuel economy; it was able to get 42 miles to the gallon, comparable to most current hybrid vehicles. - Liz Kim

The Lambo no more-o

2009-12-04T13:58:48Z

December 4, 2009 - We can just imagine the ribbing around the locker room for the perpetrator of this one, and we sure wouldn't want to be the guy who wrecked the LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO LP560-4, donated to the Italian polizia by the carmaker. And this isn't just any old $200,000, 552 horsepower supercar. One of only two in existence, it was loaded with "catch the bad guy" goodies, like an automatic number plate recognition system that can track and send plate data in real-time to central control rooms, and the fore trunk outfitted as a first-response medical platform and refrigerated box for high-speed organ transport. Unfortunately even supercars have their weaknesses, and this one was a lowly SEAT that was backing out of a petrol station. -Liz Kim

Trapped Tiger in the Slade

2009-12-03T16:51:06Z

December 3, 2009 - A dark street in the wee hours of the morning, and a car skids into a fire hydrant and tree. A minor accident, but one that has major repercussions in the sport and celebrity world. TIGER WOODS is no stranger to GM products, as he was a longtime spokesperson for Buick products, but we're sure he really didn't want to his black CADILLAC ESCALADE to be the focus of such intense scrutiny. The fender bender has opened up a whole giant can of worms involving alleged affairs and possible domestic abuse that could possibly damage his once sterling image. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Wayne's World"

2009-11-30T15:36:40Z

November 30, 2009 - Things we were thankful for this year: family. Our armed forces. Solvency. And classic movies, like this 18-year old goodie. "Wayne's Worl d" enhanced our cultural lexicon with such pearls of wisdom as "Schwing!" and "Sha, right." But it's the scene with the group bopping their heads to "Bohemian Rhapsody" in the mid-70s AMC PACER, nicknamed the Mirthmobile, that left an indelible impression. Like our movie, the Pacer was derided for its terrible performance, but has earned a grudging respect of sorts and a cult following in its antiquity. Perhaps we'll see a resurrection as with other small cars, such as the Mini Cooper and the Fiat 500. - Liz Kim

Video: Trailer for "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist"

2009-11-20T13:17:48Z

November 20, 2009 - We can't really relate to the out-all-night-partying lifestyle of the characters of "Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist" (exactly where are the parents? Are they of the Charlie Brown "wah-wah-wah-wah" species?), but we can certainly attest to young, unrequited love, and the ability and power of music to give a voice and energy to the passion. One of the key players in the movie was an ignominiously yellow YUGO GV from the mid-80s driven by MICHAEL CERA's character. As awful then as it is now, the Yugo (built in then-Yugoslavia, present Serbia under the much more respectable Zavodi Crvena Zastava tag) was billed as America's cheapest automobile. We couldn't believe that the producers were able to source one; we thought they had all been smashed and recycled. - Liz Kim

The Bugatti in the Swamp

2009-11-18T15:13:05Z

November 18, 2009 - Shock and awe. Those were the only words to describe the appalling fate of the French objet d'art known as the BUGATTI VEYRON, a $1.5 million-plus vehicle that was unceremoniously driven into a swamp by a distracted driver, no thanks to a cursed pelican. One of only about 300 ever made, the Veyron is a tour de force that really can't be compared to other street-legal vehicles; it's more in the class of Gulfstreams and Cessnas. With a 1001-horsepower quad-turbocharged W16 engine, it can get you from zero to 60 mph in under 3 seconds. That's whiplash territory for you and me. Sure, there may be a bit of Schadenfreude at seeing one of the haves in a bit of a bind, but seeing the Veyron in the murky depths is like watching a tagging crew desecrate the Pieta. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Other Side of Paradise"

2009-11-13T15:45:44Z

November 13, 2009 - With every day that passes with our bottoms welded to our chair in front of the computer, the open road beckons with its lure of adventure and self-discovery. Alas, it is only through the movies that we can vicariously live out our fantasies of a spontaneous road trip filled with quirky characters and surprising revelations. "The Other Side Of Paradise" follows two long time friends (ARIANNE MARTIN and JOHN ELLIOT) on a road trip in a mid-80s FORD LTD CROWN VICTORIA station wagon, as they explore their latent feelings for one another. The relationship is probably symbolized in the car, which was a nice vehicle but one of the last behemoth station wagons to be sold before they were all replaced with SUVs: sometimes the timing's just off. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Salt"

2009-11-11T15:23:42Z

November 11, 2009 - In our humble opinion, there is nothing more appealing to watch than a gorgeous woman whuppin' some asses. And there's no better whup asser alive today than ANGELINA JOLIE. So it's with great anticipation that we await next summer's release of "Salt," in which she plays an FBI agent accused of being a double spy and is framed for a Russian hit on the POTUS. Through the cleverly violent hand to hand combat scenes, we see a NYPD-issue CHEVROLET SUBURBAN meet a spectacular end. Sure, the Suburban has great crash test scores, and you wouldn't want to see its grille bearing down on you in your rearview mirror when you're driving a Miata, but even a full-size SUV is no match for the effects of gravity. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "From Paris with Love"

2009-11-06T14:45:53Z

November 6, 2009 - A big budget shoot-'em-up between the CIA and bad guys: good. Great car chases through Paris set to heart-thumping tunes: better. Starring a wisecracking JOHN TRAVOLTA: the best. The Travolta character mostly drives around in a black CADILLAC ESCALADE, a brash American vehicle that looks a bit out of place in dainty Parisian streets. We also see lots of Peugeot police vehicles and a silver AUDI A8, but none seems to have the presence of the hulking SUV. We love action adventure films, and when they have all of the above mentioned elements, well, we can't wait the four months until the release of "From Paris with Love." - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Serious Moonlight"

2009-11-05T16:42:17Z

November 5, 2009 - As we all know, being married to a woman who does everything well is a great reason to cheat on her. Or so states the premise of "Serious Moonlight." MEG RYAN plays the wronged wife who zooms up to her house in a black BMW 650i convertible, only to find that her husband had plans to rendezvous with his mistress, who drives a treacley cute VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE convertible. She makes him stay, literally, by duct taping him to the toilet. No, the path to love is never easy, even for someone like Ms. Ryan, but this movie reminds us of the lyrics to the .38 Special song, "Hold on Loosely." - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Chevy Malibu in "Modern Family"

2009-10-30T14:41:36Z

October 30, 2009 - The nuclear family, as in "Leave it to Beaver," has gone the way of the dodo. "Modern Family" explores the humorous shenanigans of an unconventional clan, complete with stepmothers, adoptive kids and same-sex couples. The two stylishly flagrant dads (JESSE TYLER FERGUSON and ERIC STONESTREET) in this sitcom navigate their way around doting parenthood; they mistakenly lock their infant daughter in the vehicle with the keys after a visit to the doctor. Thankfully they are the proud owners of a CHEVROLET MALIBU, equipped with OnStar telematics, which is able to unlock the vehicle remotely. We also heard a recent news story where a carjacker was thwarted in his heinous deed because the engine was disabled through OnStar. Big Brother may be watching you, but at least he takes care of business every once in awhile. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Blind Side"

2009-10-28T14:59:48Z

October 28, 2009 - You know what they say about BMW drivers. Selfish, rude, terrible drivers, a sense of entitlement the size of Texas. In "The Blind Side," SANDRA BULLOCK plays a BMW 7 SERIES-driving, coddled housewife who embodies all of these wonderful attributes. But a chance encounter with an oversized, underprivileged youth makes her realize what's truly important in life; redemption is achieved, and a there's a happy ending for all. A large costar calls for a big car, and BMW's flagship large sedan delivers; at almost 200 inches in length and with a 400-horsepower V8 under the hood, it lets you know that the car means business. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Tooth Fairy"

2009-10-23T12:24:36Z

October 23, 2009 - In terms of moneymakers, it seems like the only sure bets these days are Apple stock and kid movies. And since Arnold Schwarzenegger is still busy with his gig in California, the plasticine THE ROCK is the go-to guy for scary looking guys playing lovable characters with hearts of gold who intimidate the baddies with their physiques. In "Tooth Fairy," he plays a hockey player who gets an attitude adjustment in the form of spell conjured to transform him into the dental sprite. In front of his house is a red first generation MAZDA MIATA from the mid-90s. Some may question if the tiny little two-seater can fit someone the size of the Rock, but you'd be surprised at how accommodating the convertible is. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Motherhood"

2009-10-21T15:00:52Z

October 21, 2009 - Will there ever be a winner in the Mommy Wars? Not bloody likely. As women battle the pros and cons of employment versus staying at home to raise the kids, there will always be conflicts, name-calling, jealousy and condescension, because deep down we'll always wonder if we're doing the right thing. "Motherhood" is a look at the ins-and-outs of a stay at home mom, played with homely gusto by UMA THURMAN. Shedding her glamourous persona, she dons a housedress and glasses, minds her squirmy brood and drives a ratty VOLVO 200 SERIES station wagon from the late 1980s. Personally, we prefer station wagons to the block-of-cheese-on-wheels called minivans that are de riguer for families today. --Liz Kim

VIDEO: Jim's Subaru in "The Office"

2009-10-16T12:59:58Z

October 16, 2009 - We think that it was the sweetest, funniest "The Office" episode in years; after five seasons of "will they or won't they" waffling, Jim Halpert (JOHN KRASINSKY) finally made an honest woman out of Pam Beesley (JENNA FISCHER) in a gonzo episode full of laughter and painful wincing (Andy Bernard rips his scrotum). We see that the happy couple is driving a brand new vehicle to their pending nuptials, a 2010 SUBARU OUTBACK. Jim seems to be a big fan of Subarus, as he was previously seen driving a SUBARU IMPREZA WRX and a SAAB 9-2X, which is a rebadged SUBARU IMPREZA. The Outback is a very useful wagon, and is, in fact, the first crossover vehicle that combined SUV attributes with car-like handling; and its nimble handling characteristics is more than capable of ferrying your open-scrotumed colleague to the emergency room. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: The Buick in "The Good Wife"

2009-10-14T14:54:23Z

October 14, 2009 - Politics and sex go together like peanut butter and jelly. So it's not surprising that a the newest lawyer drama, "The Good Wife," involves a career wife (JULIANA MARGUILES) who heads back to the workplace after her district attorney husband is caught cheating with a prostitute and using government funds to cover it up. While the scumbag rots in jail, the litigator uses her native intelligence to win cases for her clients. The whiff of scandal always make for good entertainment, and so does the blatant promotion of the 2010 BUICK LACROSSE, driven by the title character. Buick's newest sedan gets as much on-air time as the title character, so it's a good thing that it's a good looking automobile. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: The Lexus in "Cougartown"

2009-10-09T12:22:41Z

October 9, 2009 - We've always heard that age ain't nothing but a number, so nonplussed by the phenomena of cougars; that is, affluent women in their 40s and beyond seeking the companionship and services of men in their 20s. After all, older men have been dating ingénues since, oh, the inception of time. But such is the premise for "Cougartown," with COURTNEY COX as the main feline. Parked in her driveway is the 2009 LEXUS IS-C, the newest convertible from Toyota's luxury brand. It can go from coupe to topless in under 20 seconds, which we hear is commensurate to most cougars partying at Miami clubs. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Men Who Stare at Goats"

2009-10-07T12:00:39Z

October 7, 2009 - One of GEORGE CLOONEY'S great talents, and we think that he has many, is the ability to utterly lose himself in a role. Whether it's gaining 50 pounds or learning a new language, Clooney can have us nodding along as he plays a grizzled fisherman or a gaspy, has-been lawyer, although he still looks most at home in a tuxedo. For "Men Who Stare at Goats," a movie about CIA agents who work with psychics, Clooney inhabits a man who would actually drive a beige FORD TAURUS from the mid-90s. We can't quite imagine him driving anything but a shiny, exotic sports car or a sleek motorcycle, so it requires quite the suspension of disbelief. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: The Womanizer in the Maybach

2009-10-02T14:42:49Z

Britney Spears - New Music - More Music Videos

October 2, 2009 - It is with as much alarm as curiosity that we note the phoenix-like re-resurrection of the phenom known as BRITNEY SPEARS. No matter how many times the pundits have written her off, she seems to rise again like some thong-wearing bowling pin. In her latest incarnation, she's writhing in a steam room, on a Xerox machine, and the back seat of a MAYBACH 62 with a bland-looking paramour in standing. With 57.2 inches of rear leg room, there's plenty of room for hanky panky, and the rear separator glass keeps privates private. Of course, she plays the chauffer, so there wouldn't be much use for it. And with its cool half-a-mil price tag, it stands out as much as Britney does with a new hair do. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Youth in Revolt"

2009-09-30T16:48:35Z

September 30, 2009 - Is there anything more adorable than a puppy wearing a Halloween costume? How about MICHAEL CERA in a fake moustache? The consummate sweet, clueless teen takes on the challenging dual role as a gawky teenager and his suave doppelganger in the upcoming "Youth in Revolt." Among the cars shown in this trailer is a CHEVY NOVA SS from the 70s and a previous generation BMW 3 SERIES, but we're especially intrigued by the white, open-top LINCOLN CONTINENTAL from the early 60s (like the infamous presidential limousine in Dallas). We're not really sure what Mr. Cera's future will hold once his voice deepens and the vestiges of his callow youth disappear; but then again, maybe Ralph Macchio can give him some pointers. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: "The Office:" Stanley's 300

2009-09-25T12:44:46Z

September 18, 2009 - Whodathunkit? The ever so stationary Stanley Hudson (LESLIE DAVID BAKER) is caught in an extramarital tryst by "The Office" interns, setting off a chain of gossip around the water cooler that culminates in the announcement that Jim and Pam are expecting. We thought that Stanley would play the straight man forever, but it looks like his character will have a bit more depth this season. We also found that he's driving a new car; he used to be the owner of a LINCOLN LS, but he was driving a white CHRYSLER 300C. Perhaps he needed the back seat of the full-sized sedan for his rendezvous. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: "Glee:" Kurt's Navigator

2009-09-23T15:16:04Z

September 23, 2009 - Whether you're a fan of high school dramas, song-and-dance numbers or acerbic comedies, an hour of "Glee" will do you good in a way we haven't seen since the untimely demise of "Arrested Development." Last week's episode included the outing of a member of the Glee club, a "well, duh" moment if we ever saw one; the vivacious Kurt Hummel (CHRIS COLFER) admits his crush on the school jock. We get a glimpse of his home life while talking about his LINCOLN NAVIGATOR; it was apparently a bribe from his father to be a little less flamboyant.

With its gigantic, shiny chrome grille, the Navigator isn't exactly the most modest vehicle in the world, but it sure makes a good backdrop for a song number later on in the show.

- Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "When in Rome"

2009-09-18T15:12:02Z

September 18, 2009 - From "Roman Holiday" to "Only You," we love light romantic comedies set in Italy. So it's with much anticipation that we await "When in Rome," (starring KRISTEN BELL) to be released in January. We see that they've made good use of a very esoteric vehicle: the VESPA 400. Yes, the well-known maker of scooters made a foray into the world of cars back in the 1950s with this two-seater microcar; its petite dimensions of 112.5 inches is stubby enough to stuff into an elevator. Originally equipped with an 18-horsepower engine that achieves its top speed of 50 mph in about 25 seconds, it's really more of an enclosed scooter than an actual motorcar. But its fuel economy of 50 mph is more on par with high-tech hybrid vehicles of today. Those Romans - always thinking ahead. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Clip from "The Beast"

2009-09-16T14:51:41Z

via The Insider

September 16, 2009 - For some reason, this is not a good summer to be an entertainer, as the list of the untimely deceased grows at an alarming rate. In the waning days of September, we are saddened to learn that PATRICK SWAYZE has succumbed to pancreatic cancer, leaving us forlorn for the gravelly-voiced, gyrating actor who leapt into our fantasies in the Civil War miniseries "North and South" and the boyfriend who protects from beyond the grave in "Ghost." Even after the diagnosis, Mr. Swayze insisted on continuing his career; his final performance can be seen in "The Beast," in which he plays a CADILLAC CTS-V driving FBI agent. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "Ironman"

2009-09-11T12:49:16Z

September 11, 2009 - Sure, there's room for the philosophical "what is good and what is evil" equivocations of "Batman Forever." But we also like the blow-up-the-unquestionably-bad-guys excitement of a good old-fashioned superhero movie, and apparently, so do others; "Ironman" opened to rave reviews and millions of dollars at the box office when it was released last year. ROBERT DOWNEY JR. plays genius billionaire playboy Tony Stark, who likes his cars the way he does his ladies; fast and gorgeous. So it's no wonder that his ride of choice is the German supercar, the AUDI R8. With 420 horsepower spinning all four wheels, he can zoom from zero to 60 mph in about 4.4 seconds; that's slightly less time that it takes him to know a woman in the biblical sense. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Trailer for "I Love You, Man"

2009-09-09T15:25:16Z

September 9, 2009 - In the world gone mad with out-of-control Bridezillas and the whiny beeatchs on "The Hills," manly men know that there's still a place you can go where bros come before ho's, where relationships are imbued with more stability and depth than if it were one that is accompanied by a mere bauble in a robin blue box. That world is the bromance, the realm of Judd Apatow and embodied by movies like "I Love You, Man." PAUL RUDD plays a hapless betrothed in desperate need of male company; as the driver of a VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT WAGON, we know that he's way to sensitive and artsy for his own good, and will soon be "cured" by a restorative dose of testosterone. - Liz Kim

Nick Chauffeur's Mimi Around in Style

2009-09-08T15:14:45Z

September 8, 2009 -- NICK CANNON and MARIAH CAREY are coming up on their one and a half year anniversary, and they seem stronger than ever. In these pictures of the couple leaving Mr. Chow, Nick looks to be unable to take his eyes off his Grammy-winning wife. It's good to see he's still enamored by Mrs. Cannon. What we can't take our eyes off of is Nick's pitch-black, specially tuned MERCEDES BENZ SL. With either a V8 or V12 engine propelling the stunning coupe down the road, the luxury sports car is the perfect ride in which to chauffeur a diva to dinner.

--Alison Lakin

Ted Kennedy's 1967 Oldsmobile Delmont 88

2009-09-04T12:51:39Z

September 4, 2009 - Some men are born great; others have greatness thrust upon them. As we ponder upon the life of the late SENATOR EDWARD KENNEDY, we realize that he had a bit of both. We're also seeing that along with fame came infamy; it seems that no one can extricate his life of public service and good works without the spectre of that ghastly incident in Chappaquiddick, Massachusetts. The image of the waterlogged 1967 OLDSMOBILE DELMONT 88 being towed from the mucky waters of the tidal channel leaves an indelible image for us all. There was never a consensus on what exactly happened that night, and now the truth will remain a secret to be buried with the Senator for eternity. - Liz Kim

Switching Cars, We Can Still Spot Marky Mark

2009-09-03T12:45:01Z

September 3, 2009 -- Invasion of privacy is a big issue for celebrities. While some love the exposure (cough, Heidi and Spencer), some just grimly endure it and others flat out hate it. MARK WAHLBERG is solidly in the later category despite his well-documented love of the camera during his Marky Mark years. Judging from these pictures of him stepping out of his CADILLAC ESCALADE HYBRID, he may have switched cars since we last saw him, but the attitude doesnt appear to have changed. OK, so the hybrid version of the eight-seater SUV may be a terrifying $11,000 more than the regular Escalade, but it also gets 20 mpg in the city versus the normal 12. Gas savings not enough to put a smile on your face, Marky?

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "It's Complicated"

2009-09-02T12:12:34Z

September 2, 2009 - It's a story as old as time: Man marries woman, man cheats on woman, man marries his mistress. But in the new feature film, "It's Complicated," a new layer of complexity is added when said man cheats on his new wife with his old ex. Of course, when the ex is the lovely MERYL STREEP, we can hardly blame the fellow. The aggrieved wife is seen driving a responsible and boring TOYOTA PRIUS, while the scalawag husband steers around an indeterminate but luxurious-looking convertible. We're kind of digging the twist on the old tale, and, with romantic interests such as Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin, we're looking forward to a rollicking good time.

One Turbo Ride For Mel

2009-09-01T21:22:47Z

September 1, 2009 --- MEL GIBSON has sunk pretty low in Americas opinion as of late. Anti-Semitic remarks, drunk driving charges and, most recently, a bitter divorce have shredded his leading-man status. Its a brutal downward spiral that certainly isnt winning him any fans. But were here to talk about his taste in cars, not his issues driving them. And taste he appears to have, since weve spotted him driving the PORSCHE CAYENNE TURBO. Widely considered to be the best sports SUV on the market, the Cayenne Turbo is powered by a 4.8-liter V8 and motors along at a max speed of 171 mph. Couple that with a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds and youve got a beast of an SUV. Only one other trim is faster the Turbo S but for an extra $25k over the already bulging $100,000 price tag, wed be satisfied settling for the Turbo.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Third Date with Will Ferrell

2009-08-28T12:02:58Z

Third Date with Will Ferrell from Will Ferrell

August 28, 2009 -- We love these little skits from WILL FERRELL and gang. In this one entitled "Third Date with Will Ferrell," the curly-headed comic steps out of his LAND ROVER LR3 and gives his date a tour of his abode. Which turns out to be the Port-A-Potty next to the impressive glass and wood structure. But, apparently, it's bigger on the inside than it looks on the outside. At least the car's exterior matches the interior: the LR3 looks tall and imposing, and we've found that even sitting in the second row gives you a great view of the action outside the windshield, thanks to its stadium seating. --Liz Kim

Fast Feet & A Fast Car for Bolt

2009-08-27T14:51:36Z

August 27, 2009 -- For some, being the fastest person in the world would be satisfying enough. This apparently isn't the case for USAIN BOLT, who just broke the 200-meter world record time at the world championships five days ago. The man is unstoppable, and this most recent victory is the fifth in a row that he's bested a world record. To supplement his addiction to all things fast, Usain now has a FERRARI CALIFORNIA to help propel him along the road. While it's not exactly a Bugatti Veyron, the California is the first Ferrari to have a front-mounted V8 engine, which is mated to Ferrari's first dual-clutch automated manual transmission. A fast man in a fast car, with super fast gear shifts. We're sensing a trend.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Transporter 3"

2009-08-26T12:54:14Z

August 26, 2009 - The bromance continues; this time, it's between a man and a car. JASON STATHAM, of the Cro-Magnon mug, takes another turn as the driver of a kitted out AUDI A8 in the latest installation of "The Transporter." We always thought of the series as extended commercials; the German luxury saloons are featured performing supercar feats, popping a wheelie in this trailer, but always end up with shiny tires and nary a dent to be seen. Audi's full-size luxury sedan was never our favorite in the class - it wavers between the Mercedes S-Class and the BMW 7 Series - but it sure does inspire some passion amongst those who prefer something a little bit out of the ordinary. - Liz Kim

Audrina's 'Reality' Pays Off

2009-08-25T14:16:27Z

August 25, 2009 --- AUDRINA PATRIDGE is famous for playing herself on a faux-reality TV show. How's that for lucky? She was working as a receptionist at Quixote Studios before MTVs cameras swooped in on her and her newfound pals, Heidi Montag and Lauren Conrad. Her show, The Hills, followed the success of Laguna Beach, and Audrina has enjoyed five seasons of frolicking with the rich and semi-famous. Now, the 'actress' is rich in her own right, and her spoils include a MERCEDES-BENZ SL550. The sleek sports car has a melodious V8 engine that produces 382 horsepower and comes with a $100K MSRP. Not exactly what wed call reality.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Soloist"

2009-08-21T15:49:51Z

August 21, 2009 - Anyone who reads the Los Angeles Times couldn't help but be riveted by the Nathaniel Ayers story, a Julliard-trained musician who, because of his mental illness, becomes homeless. He is befriended by a columnist who lends a hand in rediscovering his true passion; the unlikely friendship was documented in "The Soloist," which was released earlier this year. ROBERT DOWNEY JR., who knows a thing or two about being down and out, plays newspaperman Steve Lopez, who drives a SAAB 900 from the early 90s; we see plenty of shots of it in this trailer. We see that its hatchback capabilities come in handy when transporting bulky items, such as a cello. - Liz Kim

Buffy's Hybrid is Pet-friendly

2009-08-20T13:42:47Z

August 20, 2009 --- Its no secret Hollywood has a thing for the TOYOTA PRIUS. We see celebs like Larry David and Cameron Diaz cruising around L.A. in the little hybrids on a regular basis. Now, it looks like weve added another devotee to the list. SARAH MICHELLE GELLAR and her dog were captured on a quick outing to the vet in her black Prius. We've never really thought of the Prius as a pet-friendly vehicle, and with that baby bump growing by the minute, that backseat is going to get mighty crowded.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Art and Copy"

2009-08-19T21:27:12Z

August 19, 2009 - There's a well-known truism in the marketing business: Ads are like sausages. You never want to watch them being made. So it is with great fervor that we await the release of "Art and Copy," which delves into the messy business of advertisement, how they create and elicit desire for objects that we never really even knew we wanted. One of the campaigns highlighted in the movie is for the VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE, significant for its ad campaigns promoting its reliability and affordability; it became the first vehicle to break the production record of the FORD MODEL T. At least this was one vehicle that lived up to its marketing hype; because these cars were built with simplicity and durability in mind, we often see decades-old Beetles prowling the streets with as much gumption as ever. - Liz Kim

Celebs Go For Comfort in Town Car

2009-08-18T14:13:56Z

August 18, 2009 -- Forget Cadillac Escalades and GMC Yukons, the most comfortable and private way of getting around town if you're a celeb is in a LINCOLN TOWN CAR. As demonstrated by DIANE KRUGER, the Town Car is more discrete than a limo but keeps occupants comfy and looking rumple-free. The seats are plush and legroom can even accommodate a person of Lebron's stature. In short, it's the perfect passenger car. Though with a V8 under the hood, we can't imagine anyone would be too upset if the driver went missing for a while.

--Alison Lakin

Funeral vehicle for helicopter crash victims

2009-08-14T15:44:00Z

August 14, 2009 - We have a Pavlovian response when we hear about any kind of airline mishap in NYC airspace; we hold our breath, and, even though any kind of plane crash is a tragedy, we breathe a sigh of relief when we're assured that it was a mere accident, and not the result of some nefarious plot. Such was the case with the awful collision between a sightseeing helicopter and a small airplane over the Hudson. Our interest piqued even further as we saw footage of the funeral cortege of the victims in Italy; the hearses are based on the sleek MERCEDES-BENZ CLS 550, one of the best looking vehicles on the road today. Just like Italians to go out in style. - Liz Kim

Photo credit Lucas Jackson/Reuters

RPat Hearts Kristen, We Heart His Car

2009-08-13T17:07:24Z

August 13, 2009 -- When actors become famous and land blockbuster films, it seems only natural that they become more selective in their choice of vehicle. Before ROBERT PATTINSON skyrocketed to superstardom and became permanently surrounded by screaming teenaged girls, he owned an AUDI S4. It's a great performance car, for sure, and is incredibly fun to drive. What's odd is that now the Twilight films are in full force, Robert's been spotted looking quite comfortable in a PORSCHE BOXSTER. The S4 is actually more expensive than the Porsche, and even the Boxster S with 310 hp still isn't as powerful as its German brethren. You could say he traded down, if it weren't for the prestige associated with Porsches - or maybe it was the British racing green that won him over.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard"

2009-08-12T15:10:40Z

August 12, 2009 - The past couple of years have been brutal on the auto industry, and there are few more public faces of the crisis than the hapless car salesman. The WILL FARREL-produced movie, "The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard" addresses the issue, as an ailing local SoCal dealership asks for aid from a brash, notorious liquidator (JEREMY PIVEN) to sell off its inventory, lest it face bankruptcy. We're bound to see glimpses of plenty of sheetmetal during the movie, but in this trailer, a thief roars off with a cherry red FORD MUSTANG after giving a naïve team member a bank bag filled with money and an exploding ink capsule. - Liz Kim

Posh Likes Her Power Vehicles

2009-08-11T15:06:09Z

August 11, 2009 -- Talk about a transformation. VICTORIA BECKHAM has gone from 'Posh Spice' to footballer's wife to internationally known fashionista to fashion designer all in a little over ten years. Why can't we all be so industrious? Somewhere in between, she gave birth to three boys while maintaining her cadaverous form. She must roll around in her millions as a form of exercise. One thing she doesn't do to stay in shape is walk - the five-inch heels prevent much of that - and instead she travels around in her BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC. 552 horsepower isn't exactly necessary on the streets of LA, but when your life is already one of excess, more horsepower can only seem natural.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "National Lampoon's Vacation"

2009-08-10T15:01:46Z

August 10, 2009 - We're heartbroken. The preeminent raconteur of 80s adolescent angst, JOHN HUGHES, died Thursday at the hearty and hale age of 59. Although he was best known for his teenage romps starring a certain pouty redhead, one of our favorite movies of all times was the original "National Lampoon's Vacation." Setting off on their cross-country adventure in a pea-green Wagon Queen Family Truckster (a heavily disguised FORD LTD COUNTRY SQUIRE), the Griswolds encounter all manner of adventures on their way to Wally World. The movie gave us one of the immortal lines of cinema, "You may think you hate it now, but just wait 'til you drive it." Here's to you, Mr. Hughes. - Liz Kim

Sly's revved up Ford Mustang GT!

2009-08-06T14:06:33Z

August 6, 2009 -- More often than not, we see stars driving around in cars that are straight off the lot (or from the manufacturer's PR team) and have little to no modifications to speak of. There is, however, a small minority who love to take a standard car and make it special. SLY STALLONE has done exactly that with his FORD MUSTANG GT. We really want to know what he's rocking under the hood, but for now check out the custom paint job, large rear spoiler, aftermarket grille and body kit, seemingly non-functional hood scoop and extra-large wheels. As if he wouldn't get enough attention for just being him.

--Alison Lakin

Brangelina and the Big Mac Attack

2009-08-05T15:19:20Z

August 5, 2009, Los Angeles, California - In Greek mythology of yore, sometimes a god or goddess descends from their lofty peaks to interact with mortals, causing chaos and more often than not leaving a trail of destruction. In this case, divinities BRAD PITT, ANGELINA JOLIE and their multi-hued brood wafts down in their chariot - in this case, a black GMC YUKON that thankfully seats up to nine. In their wake they leave swooning drive-thru workers and paparazzi scrambling to catch the family in a human moment -- to assuage the most basic of desires; inferior but addictively tasty fried foods. Catch the moment on tmz.com. - Liz Kim

Jen's Car Crash

2009-08-04T14:38:37Z

When the celebs aren't behind the wheel of their sport coupes or hybrids, it's usually because they're being driven to some fancy red carpet event or studio back lot. We've always wondered why they need a seven-seater SUV to transport their solitary selves. Now we know - it's for protection. As demonstrated by JENNIFER ANISTON over the weekend, anyone can get into an accident, even a star's chauffeur-driven CHEVROLET SUBURBAN. Jennifer was unharmed in the accident and, as you can see by the pictures, looks absolutely gorgeous in spite of it. There's certainly something to be said for having thousands of pounds worth of sheet metal between yourself and another car.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Orphan"

2009-07-31T16:47:10Z

July 31, 2009 - We've all seen it. A couple decides to adopt with the best of intentions, only to find that their newfound joy is the spawn of Beelzebub, like Damien, of "The Omen," Hannibal Lector and his odd culinary tastes, or Annie with that vacant stare. The latest version of the devil incarnate is served up in the form of Esther in "The Orphan," a movie that has adoption agencies up in arms about its depiction of the dangers of bringing a foreigner into the family fold. Playing the hapless father is PETER SAARSGARD, who drives a black LEXUS RX 330, the vehicle for many a hijinx involving Esther. - Liz Kim

No License? Shia scoots around town

2009-07-30T16:05:02Z

July 30, 2009 -- Some mistakes are easily fixed; others, as many of us discover, take a while to fully remedy. SHIA LABEOUF is learning the hard way that driving while under the influence is probably not the best way of seeing yourself home from a party. As a result of the crash, Shia severely injured his hand and lost his driver's license - two things that take a long time to recover from. What's a movie star to do in this situation? Why, ride a scooter of course. Yep, Shia's been scooting around LA on his very own two-wheeler. His may be bare bones, but it does the trick in a pinch. However, spending hours navigating the vast City of Angels without having access to the freeway seems like a fitting punishment for his serious lapse in judgment.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "The Stepfather"

2009-07-29T12:20:47Z

July 29, 2009 - Everyone's familiar with the wicked stepmother trope from Grimm's fairy tales. But what we really need right now is a greater exploration of the wicked, murderous stepfathers, especially in this day and age when the majority of American families live in non-nuclear units. Because there's nothing like paranoia and suspicion to engender family harmony in what is already a stressful situation. "The Stepfather" is a remake of a 1976 film of the same name, wherein an innocent boy comes home from military school to find his mom (SELA WARD) shacking up with a guy who just seems too good to be true. Needless to say, things mayhem ensues. Driven by the girlfriend of the hapless boy is a SCION XA, a cute as a bug subcompact. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Warehouse, Pilot

2009-07-28T12:10:42Z

July 28, 2009 --- Some say that when recessions hit, the public wants TV shows and movies that allow for escapism. Being able to forget your worries for an hour can truly be restorative, and shows like WAREHOUSE 13 seem to hit just the right note. The pilot episode lets us enter the lives of two secret service agents who are assigned to Warehouse 13, a top-secret storage facility for mysterious objects with unexplained and powerfully dangerous abilities. In this clip, Agent Pete Lattimer is heading to his new assignment in his FORD EXPLORER. It's a perfect car to haul all your stuff, but road trips with that kind of mileage can seriously put a dent in your wallet. Let's hope the government covers the cost. --Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Nine"

2009-07-24T12:18:00Z

July 24, 2009 - We had such a blast watching the latest iteration of "Chicago" from director Rob Marshall, that we were wondering what he'd do as an encore. It looks like his latest musical, "Nine," will also be a rollicking good time. The great DANIEL DAY LEWIS plays a producer trying to juggle all the ladies in his life while getting his movie made, a monumental feat considering that the women include those played by Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and Sophia Loren. Still, those gorgeous visages have to compete with the wide panoramic shots of Lewis ripping through the Italian countryside in a power-blue ALFA ROMEO SPIDER GIULIETTA from the late 1950s. Nothing wrong with that. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: Royal Pains, "TB or Not TB"

2009-07-23T12:08:29Z

July 23, 2009 --- When the Hamptons needs a doctor, who does it turn to? Since the rich have deemed the local hospital unworthy, they certainly won't be showing up there. Instead, they call a concierge doctor, a man called Hank. At least, that's what happens in ROYAL PAINS, a new show from the USA network. Our unassuming hero goes around saving the lives of the privileged, but also takes time to do some pro bono work for those who need it. A concierge doctor wouldn't be worth his scrubs if he didn't have a capable assistant and plenty of supplies on hand. Enter Divya and her MERCEDES-BENZ G-CLASS. Divya has kitted out her very swank G with the latest medical equipment so that Hank has everything while he's attending to various mansion occupants. Can't we all have that kind of special treatment? --Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Crossing Over"

2009-07-22T12:14:09Z

July 22 --- Being patriotic means that we have to keep those illegal outsiders out in order to maintain the American way, right? RIGHT? Well, sometimes things are not so simple, as the movie "Crossing Over" posits. In it, HARRISON FORD plays an Immigration and Naturalization Service officer who is torn between the upholding the letter of the law, as is his job, and compassion for his fellow human beings, whom he begins to see as individuals rather than mere outlaws. As with most law enforcement agencies, the wheels for the INS is the inevitable FORD CROWN VICTORIA. We kind of miss the days when Harrison Ford played the good guy hero with no complicated moral quandaries. - Liz Kim

Power Couple in a Powerful Car

2009-07-21T12:37:50Z

July 21, 2009 -- Is anyone else surprised over the new coupling of ALEX RODRIGUEZ and KATE HUDSON? It's not the first unlikely couple we've questioned but Kate is such a relaxed chick that seeing her with baseball star A-Rod throws us in a state of confusion. Add A-Rod's CADILLAC ESCALADE to the mix and call us flabbergasted. The luxury SUV is perfect for someone like him - it has all the amenities someone of such a high profile would demand. It's just that we imagined Kate feeling more comfortable in a PRIUS. Just goes to show how well we actually know celebrities.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Sorority Row"

2009-07-17T12:12:04Z

July 16, 2009 -- Sometimes, there's nothing more American than the desire to watch wealthy, hot, spoiled girls getting their comeuppance for commiting the sin of hubris and a sense of entitlement. In this summer's slasher film, "Sorority Row," a gaggle of sorority sisters vow to keep a murder, committed with the help of a CADILLAC ESCALADE, on the down low and move on with their privileged lives. That is, until a mysterious figure starts offing the sisters, who, more often than not, are scantily clad. Making her big-screen debut is AUDRINA PARTRIDGE. Which makes us wonder: when does the slashing on "The Hills" begin? - Liz Kim

Sienna Miller finally earns her drivers license

2009-07-16T16:08:57Z

July 16, 2009 -- The UK's driving tests aren't for the faint of heart. More rigid and scrupulous than those in the US, many people don't pass on the first or even second time. It makes sense then that SIENNA MILLER is rightly excited about securing her license at the ripe age of 27 - though in her defense, most Londoners have little reason to drive at all. The car she passed her test in is the VAUXHALL ASTRA. As you can guess, this car is the same as the Saturn Astra that has spent a brief few years in America and is set to go on GM's chopping block. Unlike the Astra's mediocre sales on our shores thanks in part to the poor economy, in the land of tea and crumpets the Vauxhall has been Britain's second-best selling car for three years straight. Maybe that's why Sienna's jumping for joy!

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Sixteen Candles" and the Porsche 944

2009-07-15T12:47:21Z

July 15, 2009 -- Ah, Jake Ryan. Is there a Gen Xer alive who didn't grow up with fantasies about the perfect guy, modeled after the object of Molly Ringwald's lust in "Sixteen Candles"? Apparently there are still fan groups devoted to MICHAEL SCHOEFFLING, who played Jake Ryan. He of the gorgeous visage and physique, sensitive enough to notice the shy girl, and wealthy beyond measure; he lives in a mansion, his father drives a Rolls and he is the owner of a cherry red PORCHE 944 from the early 80s. That is the chariot used to pick up the Molly Ringwald character from her ignoble, bridesmaid-outfitted existence in the penultimate scene. That left some pretty high standards for the real guys in our lives to reach. - Liz Kim

Bridget's Ride With A New Man

2009-07-14T15:38:58Z

July 14, 2009 --- It's a testament to the prevalence of social media now that BRIDGET MOYNAHAN is known more for her very public break-up with Tom Brady (who shacked up with Gisele almost immediately after their split) than her acting credentials. The former model has had roles in movies like The Recruit and I, Robot, but has been quiet in recent months while avoiding more intrusion into her private life. That might be changing though as she was spotted over the weekend getting into her BMW X5 with a mystery man. Good for her! We love a good comeback story. A new guy plus a new movie - Ramona and Beezus - coming out next year sounds like just the revival Bridget needs.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Sixteen Candles" and the Rolls Royce Corniche

2009-07-10T12:40:45Z

July 10, 2009 -- The current generation has "Twilight." Those of us who grew up in the 80s had Molly Ringwald movies to teach us to dream about the ultimate guy who lifts us from our prosaic lives into a perfect world of romance. In this clip from "Sixteen Candles," adorable nerd Farmer Ted (ANTHONY MICHAEL HALL) wakes up with the prom queen in the back seat of Jake Ryan's ROLLS ROYCE CORNICHE from the mid-70s. Neither can remember the wild night before, which is just as well, considering the damage wrought upon the Rolls by beginning driver Ted. - Liz Kim

Jen and Gerard behind the wheel

2009-07-09T15:54:20Z

July 9, 2009 -- Before tongues start wagging over a possible love connection between JENNIFER ANISTON and GERARD BUTLER, let us tell you that they're only on the road together because of their new movie, Bounty Hunter, which imdb has zero information about. While we can't tell you about the plot, we can tell you that the two stars are filming a scene involving a 1975 OLDSMOBILE DELTA 88 ROYALE. This ragtop was a massive success, selling over 20,000 models - a huge coup during the gas crunch at that time. The base model's V-8 engine put out just 170 horsepower though, and a tuned version got you a whole 20 extra horses. Guess that means that Jen and Gerard won't be breaking any speed limits while behind the wheel.

--Alison Lakin

The Cars in Michael Jackson's Memorial Procession

2009-07-08T14:36:07Z

July 8, 2009, Los Angeles, California -- It was a memorial service befitting royalty, as friends and family mourned the passing of MICHAEL JACKSON, the King of Pop, while celebrating his life and achievements. And appropriately, the funeral cortege was also befitting of royalty. The Jackson family was in a procession comprised of matching ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOMS and LAND ROVER RANGE ROVERS, all in the somber hue of black. The gilded coffin itself was ferried in a hearse crafted from a modified LINCOLN TOWN CAR, strangely pedestrian for someone of such flagrant tastes. It was an odd sight seeing the procession make its way across deserted Los Angeles freeways, but we suppose that everything about the past two weeks was odd, weird, sad, extraordinary, and unforgettable. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: Getty Images

More Leg Room For The Supermodel

2009-07-07T18:14:01Z

July 7, 2009 --- Supermodel GISELE BUNDCHEN lives a pretty charmed life, even by celebrity standards. Her success is evidenced by her countless editorials and photo shoots and her appearance in the pages of some of the top magazines in the world. Not to mention her role in the Victoria's Secret catwalk every year. Although it seems impossible, her personal life is even sweeter. Newly married to New England Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady, she's also just announced the pregnancy of her first child with him. Here Gisele is, running errands and looking gorgeous, in her CADILLAC ESCALADE. The tall couple - she's 5'10" and he's 6'4" - probably need a large car just for the extra legroom.

--Alison Lakin

XOXO Gossip Girl

2009-07-02T14:26:28Z

July 2, 2009 -- GOSSIP GIRL is known for chronicling the pampered lives of Manhattan's Upper East Side teens. As expected, our favorite rich kids get driven around the city streets in limos and plush town cars instead of driving themselves, so the show always seems to be devoid of automotive eye candy. Seems like that will all change soon enough. Judging by these pictures, our TV screens will attempt to contain shots of the new FERRARI CALIFORNIA in the upcoming season. However ironic the name is, considering the show is entirely set in New York, it can't be denied that the car is a stunner. It features a sleek retractable hardtop and Ferrari's first direct-injection engine. 460 horsepower doesn't diminish its allure either. Just look at CHACE CRAWFORD studiously trying to not to look at it.

--Alison Lakin

No Fancy Cars for Robert's New Movie

2009-06-30T14:19:19Z

June 30, 2009 --- Poor ROBERT PATTINSON. The guy was just your average British boy before fate landed him the role of Edward Cullen in the Twilight movie series. Rocketing to mega stardom overnight, Rob is forced to deal with screaming fans chasing after him at all hours of the day. Unfathomably, he takes it all in stride, smiling at cameras and signing autographs for admirers. His character in Remember Me, a new movie he's filming, was recently snapped climbing out of the back of a TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID - cool choice, we think, as it gets an 11 mpg bump in its city mileage over the regular Camry. Maybe he can use it to silently zoom away from the adoring throngs.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "2012"

2009-06-26T12:35:54Z

June 26, 2009 -- Summer's here! It's time for barbecues, beach parties and sand rash. And, of course, no summer would be complete without the inevitable disaster movie. The premise of "2012" is the apocalypse (predicted from ancient wisdom), the end of time, the destruction of the world as we know it. All done with pretty spectacular effects. JOHN CUSACK plays the father who'll stop at nothing to ensure the safety of his family. In one compelling sequence, he drives a MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS sedan out of the back of a plane. We're not sure how it ends, but we're pretty positive that all the members of the family, especially the cute little ones, miraculously survive. - Liz Kim

Reality TV Star's Real Life Car

2009-06-25T15:46:57Z

June 25, 2009 -- Reality TV has never been this tumultuous - and that's saying a lot about a genre that brought us the Real World and Tila Tequila's A Shot at Love. John and Kate Plus 8 stars, JOHN and KATE GOSSELIN, have been embroiled in a very public and very trashy separation for many months now. Pay no mind to the eight kids involved, these two can't think beyond their own childish needs. For once, however, Kate played it incognito in her TOYOTA LAND CRUISER after reports of her divorce surfaced. You can rest assured she won't be hiding in that massive SUV for long - there's sure to be more poor decisions in Kate's immediate future. At least we know her choice of vehicle isn't one of them.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Zombieland"

2009-06-24T14:34:08Z

June 24, 2009 -- Deep down inside, who isn't a fan of a good zombie movie? The curdled blood. The rotting, ribboned flesh. The severed limbs. The cannibalism. And, of course, the hilarious zingers uttered by the living. Apparently we Americans are sick of letting the Brits have all the fun with "Shaun of the Dead," so we're introducing "Zombieland," starring WOODY HARRELSON as a trash-talking zombie slayer. True to form, he drives around in a series of tough American trucks, such as the CADILLAC ESCALADE and HUMMER H2 (now Chinese-owned, of course. But who could've foreseen that?) We supposed that in a post-apocalyptic world ruled by the undead, no one really gives a hoot about saving the environment. - Liz Kim

Paul Rudd Almost Run Down!

2009-06-23T14:57:35Z

June 23, 2009 - This weekend, lovable PAUL RUDD had just picked up some Guinness for general manjoyment when a car nearly ran him down in the street! Ok, ok, so the source of potentially serious injury, aka a HONDA ACCORD, may have been an extra for the movie How Do You Know? that Paul's been filming along with Reese Witherspoon. He makes the stunt look pretty convincing though, don't you think? Luckily for those who appreciate a good beer and a funny actor, both the Guinness and Paul made it through the action unscathed.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Teaser for Jay Leno's new primetime show

2009-06-19T14:22:47Z

June 19, 2009 - No sooner did we start thinking that we might miss JAY LENO'S signature Everest of a chin in our forays around the landscape of nighttime television, than did NBC announce that he shall still grace our televisions five times a week. And since the only other shows that are on at 10 PM comprise of unbearable reality TV and local newscasts anchored by the latest news floozy that's dating the mayor of Los Angeles, we may just check Jay out. In this teaser spot, Jay mugs his way up the Pacific Coast Highway in his 1965 AC COBRA. British-built and designed, the rare AC Cobra enjoys a storied past and sells in auctions in excess of a cool million dollars. - Liz Kim

Hipsters love Mini Coopers, Who Knew?

2009-06-18T14:11:32Z

June 18, 2009 -- In many cases, a star's car seems to fit his or her personality. The man-hunks go for the trucks, a new mom will grab a Lexus RX and the 50-somethings seem to gravitate to the sports cars. Why moody hipster and star of the Twilight movie series, KRISTEN STEWART, is taking up residence in a MINI COOPER is beyond us. The Mini seems like such a fun and happy car, while Kristen always seems like she has the weight of the world on her shoulders. Maybe she likes the great fuel economy or the zippy drive, we know that's reason enough for many people to hop in one. Hey, at least she got it in black. That's something, right?

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Beyond a Reasonable Doubt"

2009-06-17T12:46:18Z

June 17, 2009 - Is it Groundhog Day again? Because MICHAEL DOUGLAS pops up in the same kind of movie over and over again. You know, the kind where you don't quite know if he's the good guy or bad guy until the end of the flick. In this summer's "Beyond a Reasonable Doubt," he plays a District Attorney who may or may not be a criminal mastermind. We suppose one doesn't take in action thrillers for character development, but rather for scenes like the ones where this fifth-generation CHEVROLET MALIBU from the late 90s, in its full, refrigerator-white mediocrity, is batted about the road and blown up to smithereens. We can just imagine the childlike glee of the filmmakers while shooting this clip. - Liz Kim

Dakota's almost driving age

2009-06-16T14:29:31Z

June 16, 2009 -- Whoa! Is that DAKOTA FANNING? The whimsy is taking over - she was the cutest little munchkin in Man on Fire and Charlotte's Web and now she's all grown up. Well, almost all grown up - she's only 15 after all. Regardless, those are definitely some grown up heels. Wearing them must be a lot easier when you're not old enough to work the pedals of a BMW X5 yet. Keep smiling for now, Dakota. Those 5-inch stilettos will feel considerably less comfortable once you get behind the wheel of BMW's powerful, full-sized SUV.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Trailer for "Twilight: New Moon"

2009-06-12T14:41:20Z

June 12, 2009 -- Apparently, bloodsuckers are the new boy bands. So the fans of the "Twilight" series would have you believe. Parlaying a lust for plasma into the newest iteration of the knight in shining armor rescuing the damsel in distress genre, the three-part series has been a massive money maker for its author and a huge star maker for its young, pale, telegenic cast. In the book and "Twilight: New Moon" movie, the aforementioned damsel (KRISTEN STEWART) drives a red 1963 CHEVROLET C10 pickup truck. With a 140-horsepower inline-six engine, it couldn't get anywhere very fast, but it sure helped her stand out from the crowd. - Liz Kim

Celebs Love Their Ranger Rovers

2009-06-11T12:22:23Z

June 11, 2009 -- COURTNEY COX looks effortlessly cool as she and hubby, David Arquette, run around Los Angeles. Annoyingly, she also looks like she's aging backwards - whether it's good genes or something else, we may never know. Either way, her polished yet relaxed look matches her car perfectly. Her black RANGE ROVER has the off-roading roots that let it traverse mountain passes, but its rugged nature is tempered by the luxurious interior. It's a serious car in every way...so we imagine David sports something a little quirkier for his own jaunts around town.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: The Taking of Pelham 123 Preview

2009-06-10T12:14:24Z

June 10, 2009 - We're big fans of mass transit, especially subways, but the unnerving thought of being trapped underground with a bunch of shady-looking people have at times entered our minds and made our skins prickle. Such is the premise of one of this summer's action flicks, "The Taking of Pelham 123." JOHN TRAVOLTA reprises his loony bad guy role as a terrorist who takes a NEW YORK subway full of hostages, while DENZEL WASHINGTON attempts to save them. We're pretty sure that we know how it'll end, but in the meanwhile, it's always enjoyable to watch the legions of FORD CROWN VICTORIAS that serve as taxis and squad cars being blown up to smithereens and rolling around as if they were dust bunnies. - Liz Kim

Alyson Takes Baby Satyana Out In Style

2009-06-09T14:17:01Z

June 9, 2009 -- Cute as a button ALYSON HANNIGAN was snapped in LA the other day with her new baby in tow. It seems like our little Willow is all grown up! Alyson's been a staple in TV and movies ("this one time, at band camp...") for over a decade, and her gig starring in the hilarious 'How I Met Your Mother' means holding her own against comedic geniuses like Neil Patrick Harris and Jason Segel. Outside of work, she's been playing mom to her baby, Satyana, and driving around a LEXUS RX - a small SUV that fits the needs of a growing family.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Drag Me to Hell Preview

2009-06-05T12:10:49Z

June 5, 2009 -- We're not big fans of horror movies, but this one seems like it's ripped from the headlines. "Drag Me to Hell" is about a mortgage loan officer (ALISON LOHMAN) who asserts her authority to foreclose on an old gypsy woman who casts a curse on her. In the trailer, our heroine is dragged out of her previous generation FORD FOCUS by a transformed crone who smashes the window of the car, which makes us understand why many bankers are driven in bulletproof vehicles, as if they were dictators of a small country. Not that we're advocating that all financial types be relegated to this fate. Maybe just Bernie Madoff and Angelo Mozillo. - Liz Kim

Piven Makes Driving Bronco's Cool Again

2009-06-04T12:56:37Z

June 4, 2009 Los Angeles, Ca. - Summer can't come soon enough. It's when the long-awaited season six of Entourage hits our TV screens. The wait has made us antsy to see more of the boys, but JEREMY PIVEN looks like he's enjoying the break. He was caught in LA sporting an outfit as starkly different from Ari Gold's sleek Italian suits as you can get. Where's the bling Jeremy? Oh, he's riding in it. Jeremy owns one of the coolest 1977 Ford Bronco we've ever seen. The drop-top's engine sounds amazing, and the perfect bronze paint job highlights its mint condition body. We love that it's his daily driver too. Ari's got nothing on that.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: Conan Tries To Sell His Taurus

2009-06-03T17:53:19Z

June 3, 2009 -- Starting this week, CONAN O'BRIEN takes the reins of "The Tonight Show" as only the fifth host in its run of 55 years. On his first show, he reprised a funny bit that was shown a while back. Tired of housing his old forest-green 1992 FORD TAURUS SHO, he decides to try to sell it at high-end auctions. Hilarity ensues as he attempts to convince slick-looking salesmen of its attributes; the high-performance SHO variant of the boring-as-dirt family sedan was equipped with a Yamaha-built 220-horsepower V6 and a manual transmission that Conan dubbed "The Cone-Bone." Not on the manufacturer equipment list are the malfunctioning trunk lock mechanism with the wasp nest nestled inside and the dome light that falls off. Ultimately it's driven off by BRAD PITT, so it looks like a million bucks.

- Liz Kim

Video: "I Love You, Beth Cooper" trailer

2009-05-29T12:02:57Z

May 29, 2009 --- All the great classics have an instantly recognizable signature line. "We'll always have Paris." "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." "I'm ready for my close-up, Mr. DeMille." And, in "I Love You, Beth Cooper," we're thinking that it'll be "You hit me with your car. That's pretty cool." Because we're sure that the rom-com summer movie starring HAYDEN PANITTIERE, will join that hallowed pantheon of Oscar-winning classics. The car in question is a previous generation TOYOTA YARIS 5-door hatchback, notable because it was never sold here in the United States. We had the pleasure of piloting it around France a few years ago; yes, it was buzzy and underpowered, but its petite dimensions, gas-sipping ways and rootin-tootin attitude was the perfect fit for prowling the hills of the Burgundy region. -Liz Kim

Summer Car For Avril

2009-05-28T15:39:42Z

May 28, 2009 -- The month of May is quickly coming to an end, and for all of us in the Northern Hemisphere, that means summer is approaching. For the lucky inhabitants of LA, summer could be considered a year-round event, so it's nice to see AVRIL LAVIGNE taking full advantage of her sunny locale. First a stop at the beach, then a quick top-up for her JEEP WRANGLER. Not a bad day. The Wrangler's open top setup gives driver and passengers instant access to the sun, making it the perfect beach vehicle. Though by the looks of Avril, she's been dousing herself in the SPF 50.

--Alison Lakin

Video: "The Office" Michael's new Sebring

2009-05-27T12:54:18Z

May 27, 2009 --- After weeks of wandering aimlessly in the desert, the Scranton branch of Dunder Mifflin finally reunited with their fearless leader. Michael Scott (STEVEN CARRELL), through some uncharacteristically cunning maneuvering, was able to sell off the Michael Scott Paper Company and get his old jobs back, including the perk of a company car. Although we'd hardly call the CHRYSLER SEBRING convertible a perk. With its poor driving dynamics, subpar build quality, and cheap, cheap materials inside the cabin, it's no wonder that the only ones we see on the road are rentals. We consider it one of the cars that brought Chrysler down. But Michael Scott is apparently a Chrysler convertible fan, as his previous cars included the previous generation Sebring drop top as well as a CHRYSLER PT CRUISER convertible. - Liz Kim

JT & Jess Mix Business & Pleasure

2009-05-26T14:51:01Z

May 26, 2009 --- Every once and awhile a Hollywood couple comes along that makes the public stop and scratch its head over the randomness of the pairing. The collective head scratching intensified when JESSICA BIEL and JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE became an item. But he's so...cool. And she's so...what has she done again? Obviously we're missing something, because they've been going strong for quite some time now. So good, in fact, is their relationship that a movie collaboration is in the works. It seems like the stately and luxurious (but incredibly fast) AUDI A8L they were seen getting into after a meeting is just the right car for them to mix business and pleasure in, too.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: The trailer for "Hangover" and the Benz convertible

2009-05-22T12:13:16Z

May 22, 2009 -- "Road Trip!" These two words stir gladness into the hearts of buddies and fear into the souls of their girlfriends/fiancees. It's been the premise of many a "bros-before-'hos" film, and the new movie "Hangover" promises to be the must-see event for puerile men everywhere. The four dudes (including BRADLEY COOPER and ED HELMS), ride in style to Vegas for a bachelor party in an early-seventies MERCEDES-BENZ 250 CE convertible, and embroil themselves in one hilarious misadventure after another. We haven't seen the movie, but we suspect that at some point they realize just how much they mean to each other and hugs will be doled out for all. - Liz Kim

La Toya still living large

2009-05-21T14:21:03Z

May 21, 2009 It can't be easy for someone living in the shadow of two famous siblings. However, LA TOYA JACKSON seems to doing just fine playing third fiddle to Michael and Janet. And really, who wouldn't have a smile on her face when driving a BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT? La Toya's most recent claim to fame has a large reality TV asterisk next to it, so we're thinking the Jackson name still has some pull with the Bentley dealers - that $179,000 price tag isn't going to pay itself. Never thought we'd be jealous of the other Miss. Jackson, but there's something about her owning a car that hits 198 mph and reaches 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds that turns us green with envy.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Scrubs" and J.D.'s Prius

2009-05-20T12:03:56Z

May 20, 2009 -- Hospitals are microcosms of an entire life lived; people are born, they get ill, they die. Perhaps that's why they make such fertile ground for portraying the spectrum of human emotional experience, from tragedy to comedy. For the past eight years we've been fans of the show "Scrubs," with its slapstick antics and surreal "play within a play" daydreams of Dr. JD Dorian (ZACH BRAFF), and we're bummed that the series ended this season. We see the good doctor driving off in a TOYOTA PRIUS (an upgrade from his previous mode of transportation, a scooter), a do-gooder car for a do-gooder character. We suppose that all doctors are do-gooders, and wonder why so many of them drive Benzes. - Liz Kim

Guy is very LA

2009-05-19T13:48:46Z

May 19, 2009 -- Director GUY RICHIE has seen his fair share of drama in recent months. Being married, and now divorced, to one of the biggest stars in the world certainly didn't make life very low-key. After a much-publicized split, Guy stayed relatively quiet, and it seems he spent most of his time working on his two upcoming movies. However, it's a nice change to see him getting ready for some fun at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles. His ride, a RANGE ROVER SUPERCHARGED, is as L.A. as you can get. Not just any Range Rover, this one has a supercharged 4.2-liter V8 that blats out a 400 hp to haul the SUV along at breakneck speed. That's one way to get over a breakup.

--Alison Lakin

Teen Star With One Hot Car

2009-05-14T15:02:40Z

May 14, 2009 - Like so many girls who reached teendom in the '90s, I grew up watching AMANDA BYNES star in the totally rad sketch comedy show, "All That", on Nickelodeon. From her comedic beginnings at the age of 10, she became the go-to actress for teen comedies like She's the Man and created a buzz with her role as Peggy Pingleton in Hairspray. Amanda's comedy chops are evident throughout her repertoire, but it's all serious business when it comes to her MERCEDS-BENZ SL550. The roadster is officially a monster with 382 horsepower and a sticker price just a hair under $100,000. Apparently, Amanda's been laughing all the way to the bank.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "The O.C.:" Teresa's Chrysler LeBaron

2009-05-13T12:29:05Z

May 13, 2009 -- The I.E. The 909. The Land of the Dirt Eaters. There are many derogative terms for the area east of Los Angeles, also known as Riverside County. To be fair, most of the people we've met from there are perfectly nice, but according to "The O.C.," it's an empire (Inland, if you please) filled with impulsive youngsters with poor decision making skills and terrible choices in cars. Ryan's ex, Teresa (NAVI RAWAT), shows up in a butter-hued 1987 CHRYSLER LEBARON convertible, while her current fiancée, Eddie (ERIC BALFOUR) cruises around in a CHEVROLET EL CAMINO from the late 60s. We're all for practical, used vehicles, but couldn't someone show up in a sensible HONDA CR-V?

- Liz Kim

McQueen's historic bikes

2009-05-12T15:15:38Z

May 12, 2009 -- STEVE MCQUEEN may not be with us anymore, but for many he still endures as one of the coolest movie stars of all time. This holds especially true for all the car junkies out there, who remember now-iconic scenes in The Great Escape and Le Mans. The motorcycle jump in The Great Escape has become so well known, the name McQueen has been linked to bikes every since. For that reason, someone this weekend paid $84,240 in auction for McQueen's 1963 TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE, built by Bud Elkins, the man who actually performed the Great Escape jump and who was a close friend of McQueen's. It may not be the Gulf Porsche 917K he raced in Le Mans, but this Triumph can surely be considered a piece of automotive history.

[Source: SFGate] http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/topdown/detail?&entry_id=39890

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Star Trek" trailer: Captain Kirk's Corvette

2009-05-11T17:37:07Z

May 11, 2009 -- When it comes to sci-fi geekdom, we were always more partial Star Wars than Star Trek. We just couldn't abide by the promiscuous profligacy of Captain Kirk; we much preferred the weird incestual overtones between young Skywalker and Princess Leia. Still, we are pretty excited about the new Star Trek movie, much more than the Star Wars prequels. In this trailer, a young James Tiberius Kirk (CHRIS PINE) drives a 1965 CHEVROLET CORVETTE STING RAY ROADSTER like a bat out of hell. It's one of the sexiest vehicles ever to come out of Detroit, and its specs and performance match its appearance; a few versions were equipped with a big-block V8 that was rumored to make 550 horsepower. Sure, it lacks the anti-gravity properties of a podracer, but it looks cooler.

- Liz Kim

Work In Progress for Leighton

2009-05-07T14:48:10Z

May 7, 2009 Los Angeles, Ca. - Our favorite Upper Eastsider, LEIGHTON MEESTER, took to the streets this weekend to film a thriller called The Roommate. Details about the plot are limited considering it's not due out until 2010, but we know two very important things. First, it stars sexy Twilight sensation CAM GIGANDET, and second, Leighton's character drives a PORSCHE BOXSTER S. It's the latter bit of information that really got our hearts pounding. The relatively affordable Boxster S is the quickest way to get Porsche handling and power (310 hp!) without having to sacrifice your first-born child for the excitement. Not to say we would ever do such a thing...

The good folks at Just Jared have all the pictures.
http://justjared.buzznet.com/2009/05/02/leighton-meester-roommate/#more-312351

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "The O. C.:" Luke's GMC Sierra

2009-05-06T12:24:18Z

May 6, 2009 -- Around these parts, we have a term for those loudmouthed, red faced, backward-cap-wearing dudes driving around in jacked-up full-size pickup trucks - the OC Bro. So the show "The O.C." got it exactly right when portraying Marissa's boyfriend, Luke (CHRIS CARMACK, to whom we all owe a debt of gratitude for the eternal line, "Welcome to the O.C., bitch.") He picks up his fair maiden in a heightened GMC SIERRA 1500 from early this decade. With a powerful V8, 4-wheel drive and nearly 6-ton towing capacity, these trucks were made for hauling heavy-duty equipment, but are usually used by OC bros to ferry nothing more strenuous than rented kegs.

- Liz Kim

Clooney's most appropriate car

2009-05-05T15:11:44Z

May 5, 2009 Miami, FL - When one thinks of GEORGE CLOONEY, words like 'delectable,' 'delicious,' 'handsome,' and 'damn sexy' all come to mind. This weekend gave us yet another demonstration of his sex appeal; his suave self was clicked signing autographs after a meal in South Beach. As he hopped into an INFINITI FX, we were struck by how appropriate that car is for him. It's a luxury crossover, which means he's got comfy leather seats and an amazing navigation system, while also getting great fuel economy numbers. The silver color matches his salt-and-pepper hair too - surely he did that on purpose.

--Alison Lakin

Nancy Reagan likes red

2009-05-04T12:19:23Z

May 4, 2009, Los Angeles, California -- There's been so much attention paid lately to the fashions of current First Lady and style diva MICHELLE OBAMA that we were happy to find this wonderfully appropriate photo of former First Lady NANCY REAGAN. She's being escorted to the usually reserved LINCOLN TOWN CAR, the de facto vehicles for those who hire drivers. Only, in typical Nancy fashion, instead of the expected black, it's a bright, sparkly red, bringing to mind all the exuberant Adolfo and Oscar de la Renta gowns that graced the halls of the White House. Goes to show you that trends and fashion may wither, but style never goes away.

- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 Online

VIDEO: "The O.C.:" Ryan's Land Cruiser

2009-05-01T12:09:35Z

May 1, 2009 -- Sure, naysayers may say "The O.C." jumped the shark with the whole Oliver fiasco. But we were loyal fans until the very end - of the third season, that is. That's when the producers decided to kill off Marissa Cooper's (MISCHA BARTON) character, in a spectacular crash in Ryan's (BENJAMIN MACKENZIE) TOYOTA LAND CRUISER from the early 80s. Even though Marissa was of the "too dumb to live" species, the show was never the same after that. And they could've chosen a better vehicle for the cartwheel down the hill; Land Cruisers tend to be so reliable and rough-and-tumble that fans may assert that Marissa could have survived the crash. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: "Kings"

2009-04-30T12:29:19Z

April 30, 2009 New to the small screen this year, NBC's KINGS has already packed a ton of drama into its few episodes. This particular one is no different. To deal with an acutely emotional situation, we find King Silas driving into the secluded back roads to seek counsel from Reverend Samuels. The Reverend's advice appears all too mystifying until the drive back results in Silas' CHEVROLET SUBURBAN flipping violently. The SUV had struck a deer, killing it but barely injuring Silas in the process. And voila! All becomes clear. Protection from major accidents and earth-shattering revelations? Why aren't we driving a Suburban?

---Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "The O.C.:" Seth's Range Rover

2009-04-28T14:58:44Z

April 29, 2009 -- It was only five years ago, yet it seems a lifetime away. Real estate prices were soaring, houses were seen as ATMs, and everyone believed that if you could only squeeze out a little more equity from your mortgage, you'd look and live like those beautiful kids on "The O.C.," with their fancy houses, expensive cars, haute clothes and tragically hip music. In this clip, Seth Cohen (ADAM BRODY) is driving the gang to a disastrous weekend in Tijuana in his parents' LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER. But with merely 74 cubic feet of cargo space, those girls had better learn to pack lightly.

- Liz Kim

Heigl's sport rover

2009-04-28T14:18:35Z

April 28, 2009 Los Angeles, Ca. - KATHERINE HEIGL is a busy woman. She's got her complicated Grey's Anatomy character to keep tabs on, as well as a new movie, The Ugly Truth, coming out in summer. When things get overwhelming, there's nothing like a little mom time to keep you chilled out. To be able to enjoy it in a plush RANGE ROVER SPORT makes the occasion even better. You can't really go wrong with the Sport. Its 300 hp V8 delivers plenty of power for a five-seater, and the interior appointments will satisfy even the most discerning celeb. Mom must have had one hell of a good time.
Our friends at popsugar have all the pics.

--Alison Lakin

Video: "Hart to Hart"

2009-04-27T11:55:02Z

April 27, 2009 - Lately, there has been an appalling lack of glamourous, wealthy middle-aged couples who spend their free time solving dastardly deeds. Three decades ago, this demographic maw was filled by "Hart to Hart," wherein Mr. and Mrs. Hart drove around in luxurious cars and dropped bon mots while sipping champagne and being softly lit and filtered by a camera who did not judge their well-earned laugh lines. In the heart-pumping opening montage, Jennifer Hart, played by STEFANIE POWERS at her sparkliest, is a freelance journalist, drives a MERCEDES-BENZ 450SL from the late 70s. - Liz Kim

Pierce Brosnan drives the BMW Hydrogen 7

2009-04-24T10:48:15Z

April 24, 2009 - Rounding out GreenWeek is none other than 007 himself. It's got enough sophisticated technology to be on James Bond's drive list. And, lo and behold, we see behind its wheel a former James Bond. PIERCE BRONSNAN is driving the BMW HYDROGEN 7; it may not have a mini-nuclear weapons launcher or have amphibious capabilities, but it is the latest salvo against environmental pollution due to emissions as well as reliance on foreign fossil fuels that weakens us as a nation. Powering the massive luxury sedan is a 6-liter V12 engine that's been re-engineered to burn liquid hydrogen chilled to minus 423 degrees below zero, creating the electricity needed to move the vehicle. And it leaves nothing but pure distilled water in its wake. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 Online

Being Green With Electric Cars

2009-04-23T12:10:47Z

April 23, 2009 -- Electric cars are still an unknown quantity in America. Many of those on the market right now aren't highway worthy or even crash test-rated, with 25 mph maximum speeds and eight-hour charging times. Luckily for us, the TESLA ROADSTER is changing all that. It's the first electric sports car to hit America, and it's a doozy. 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and a 14,000 rpm redline make this one smoking hot, eco-friendly convertible. MATT DAMON and WILL.I.AM from the Black Eyed Peas both have one. So does DUSTIN HOFFMAN, who's been seen cruising around Santa Monica in the Roadster. Of course, its $100k price tag makes it pretty unattainable for everyone sans the rich and famous, but that doesn't stop us from dreaming.

--Alison Lakin

Halle Berry and the Lexus RX400h

2009-04-22T10:32:48Z

April 22, 2009 - We're marking GreenWeek by highlighting the newest cars that you're favorite celebrities are driving. Ya gotta give the lady props for trying. Glassy-eyed immortal HALLE BERRY already drives a LEXUS RX400H hybrid as her daily ride. Super - but between pulling a fully loaded SUV with all the luxury goodies inside and producing a respectable 268 total horsepower, the 3.3-liter V6 it really only gets about 25 miles to the gallon. So maybe it was subconscious wishful thinking that got her mistakenly putting diesel fuel into the tank. No worries - the paparazzi stopped her before she did any real damage to her Lexus. Diesel may evoke images of noxious fumes and truck-stop grit, but the latest low-sulfur versions emit very little, and gives terrific mileage to boot: We were able to effortlessly achieve 48 miles to the gallon in a sporty little VOLKSWAGEN JETTA TDI. - Liz Kim

Celebs Love Green Prius

2009-04-21T15:57:02Z

April 21, 2009 -- No car speaks more to the eco set than the TOYOTA PRIUS. Over the eight years of its existence, the little hybrid that could has come to represent the green movement as we know it today, so it's no wonder celebrities were some of the first to embrace it. Purchasing theirs back in the early 2000s, LEONARDO DICAPRIO and CAMERON DIAZ were ahead of the trend, but stars like KIRSTEN DUNST, REBECCA ROMIJN, JERRY O'CONNELL and ADRIAN GRENIER can all be seen piloting Priuses on a regular basis. We can't imagine its popularity dwindling any time soon especially with the improvements to the 2010 model, which now brings in an unbeatable 50 mpg on the highway.

--Alison Lakin

Jamie Lee Curtis, Jay Leno and the Honda FCX Clarity

2009-04-20T10:02:48Z

April 20, 2009 - In honor of GreenWeek, we've found all the latest celebs and their environmentally friendly cars. Will this space-pod of a vehicle be the savior of the automobile? Many people think so, including JAMIE LEE CURTIS and certified car nut JAY LENO. Consider the facts: The HONDA FCX CLARITY is completely petroleum-free. It emits nothing but clean H2O. It's totally silent. It gets about 70 miles to the gallon. Best of all, it drives just like a small Honda vehicle. Currently there are only 200 production vehicles available for lease in California, where hydrogen stations already exist; all are spoken for. The Clarity is just the kind of vehicle that the Obama administration wishes that the American car companies were already building. - Liz Kim

Perhaps a minivan for Madonna?

2009-04-17T15:18:00Z

April 17, 2009, New York City, New York -- Pay no attention to the monstrous $40 million townhouse in New York's Upper East Side. You know, the one with the 13 bedrooms and 15 bathrooms that MADONNA just bought for her family. Instead, check out the TOYOTA SIENNA minivan that would be the perfect vehicle for Madge's expanding family (actually, we suppose since GUY RITCHIE is out of the picture, it's not technically expanding). With mom driving, there's room enough for six more, with Lourdes in the passenger seat, Rocco and David in the second-row captain's chairs, and three seats in back for any more orphans from Third-World countries that wealthy Americans can adopt. And they can all enjoy Mom's performance (hey, our parents thought "Like a Virgin" was a great idea when we were 10) on the DVD player. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17Online

Megan's Power Ride

2009-04-16T13:40:45Z

April 16, 2009 - Until we see MEGAN FOX on the big screen again in the Transformers sequel this June, we'll have to settle for random pictures of her out shopping. Touted as the next Angelina Jolie, Megan drives around in a car worthy of super stardom, the MERCEDES-BENZ G550. The boxy G-Wagon has crazy power coming out of its 5.5-liter V8 and off-roading capabilities more suited for the African desert than the urban jungle. It also comes with a star-worthy price tag of over $100,000. With expenses like that, we bet she's hoping for a couple more summer blockbusters to come her way.

--Alison Lakin

Reese Loves Eco Living

2009-04-14T14:02:47Z

April 14, 2009 Los Angeles, Ca. - For some celebs, Earth Day is every day - they choose to use their hard-earned movie money to purchase an earth-friendly vehicle instead of a high-performance gas gulper. REESE WITHERSPOON is one such altruist. To help her maintain a balance between eco living and functionality for herself and two active kids, she snatched up a TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID. The Highlander's a full hybrid, which means it has cool features like off-at-idle and regenerative brakes to bring this SUV's gas mileage to 20 in the city and 27 on the highway. Those are big numbers for a car that seats up to seven.

PopSugar has the pictures.
http://www.popsugar.com/3030683?page=0,0,3

--Alison Lakin

Patrick Dempsey's fierce little cat

2009-04-13T13:58:24Z

April 8, 2009, Hollywood, California -- If there was a smackdown between dreamboat TV doctors past and present, we think that GEORGE CLOONEY can take PATRICK DEMPSEY down with barely a ruffle in his salt-and-pepper hair. But there's no denying that Mr. Dempsey has unparalleled taste in fine automobiles. Here, he's seen in an exuberantly phallic JAGUAR E-TYPE, highly regarded by the people who know - Enzo Ferrari himself declared it "the most beautiful vehicle ever made." Available in coupe or convertible form, the E-Type was manufactured from 1961 to 1974, and was powered by either a V6 or V12, depending on which version you wanted. With performance as impressive as its looks, it still turns heads wherever it goes. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 Online

VIDEO: "Kings:" King Silas' Roller

2009-04-10T12:40:39Z

April 10, 2009 -- The new series "Kings" is a fictional account of how things would be if a king ruled present day United States. Based on the biblical tale of King David, it takes place in Gilboa, with King Silas Benjamin as its monarch; its unlikely hero is the young David Shepard (CHRISTOPHER EGAN), who saves the heir to the throne from certain death. To reward this brave foot soldier, David is invited to the castle, and is driven in a ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM. We're always fascinated by the vehicles of heads of states; the Queen of England is rightly chauffered in a Roller, and we know that President Obama's street crib is a custom-built Cadillac. But is the Queen of Sweden ferried in a Saab? We somehow doubt it. - Liz Kim

Johnny Cruises In An All American Sports Car

2009-04-09T13:49:11Z

April 9, 2009 San Juan, Puerto Rico - Snapped on the set of his newest movie, The Rum Diary, JOHNNY DEPP coolly films a scene in a classic first-generation CHEVROLET CORVETTE. Built between 1953 and 1962 this roadster is the quintessential American sports car, and this one is most likely one from 1958 or later, judging by the sleek body style. Seeing as Depp plays an adrift journalist who moves to Puerto Rico and begins a midlife crisis-esque downward spiral, it makes perfect sense for him to be driving around a cherry-red convertible. Apparently, nothing's really changed in 50 years.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Southland:" Ford Crown Vic Police Cruiser

2009-04-08T12:44:24Z

April 8, 2009 -- It is a truth universally stated that when you see the unmistakable rectangular headlights and the ridiculously long front and rear overhangs, you immediately tap the brakes to slough off the, oh, 5 or 10 extra mph that you've been carrying for the past few miles. You think, aw, I can't afford another ticket, as you recognize the unmistakable silhouette, even though it might actually be Grandpa tootin' along in a MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. But for most Americans, the shape of the FORD CROWN VICTORIA means that it's the fuzz, the po-po, the pigs. With its rear-wheel drive configuration for high-speed maneuvering, large rear back seat to ferry the bad guys, trusty V8 to chase the boogeyman, and roomy caboose to schlep necessary equipment, it's the default vehicle for police departments in most areas around the country, as can be seen in the premiere episode of "Southland" (starring BENJAMIN MACKENZIE). - Liz Kim

Just Because You Have A Fast Car Dina...

2009-04-07T14:43:03Z

April 7, 2009 Malibu, Ca. - From an early age, Lindsay Lohan has been in the Hollywood spotlight - something that has lent itself to some awkward situations, to say the least. For better or worse, her mother, DINA LOHAN, has been by her daughter's side, guiding her as best as she knows how. Setting a good example of how to best reap the benefits of your offspring's tumultuous career, she finds herself comfortably behind the wheel of a stunning $197,000 Bentley Continental GT. Or should we say uncomfortably, since Dina just got nabbed by the cops for going 65 mph in a 35 zone - hardly shocking considering the Bentley can reach three times that speed with its 552 horsepower. Honestly, we're surprised (and a little disappointed) she wasn't going faster. Thanks to Pink Is The New Blog for the pics.

http://www.pinkisthenewblog.com/2009/04/dina-lohan-cant-drive-55/

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Who's The Boss"

2009-04-06T12:53:59Z

Ah, the 80s. Those were more innocent times, when sitcom characters fit into neat categories, like the uptight, wealthy Connecticut mother, the cougar grandmother, and the poor but good-natured sports fan with the thick Brooklyn accent to comes to live with them. Such is the premise of "Who's the Boss." It was a weekly treat when the oddly muzak-esque theme song started and Tony's (TONY DANZA) rusted out blue CHEVY VAN from the late 60s came onto the screen. Sure, it bore an uncanny resemblance to the vehicle of the creepy fellow who used to park beside our playground and stare at us for hours on end until the cops hauled him away, but we're sure that it had more to do with a missed delivery than the kid who disappeared for two weeks. - Liz Kim

Opening Today: "Fast and Furious:" Fenix' Gran Torino

2009-04-03T12:05:36Z

April 3, 2009 -- It's not easy being green. Just as Fenix Rise (LAZ ALONZO), the bad-ass bad guy (no relativism here - he's a bad guy), who wreaks mayhem in his minty fresh 1972 FORD GRAN TORINO SPORTSROOF. Equipped with the 429 7.0-liter Super Cobra Jet engine and a four-speed manual transmission, Ford claimed that it could produce 375 horsepower, when it actually stomped out power in the mid-400 hp range. It was a bit of an understatement to soothe insurance companies. If you want to see more of this relic, check out the Clint Eastwood movie of the same name.-- Liz Kim

Opening Tomorrow: Fast and Furious!

2009-04-02T12:23:16Z

April 2, 2009 -- In a Mad Maxian moment, "Fast and Furious" characters Brian and Dom embark on a high-speed desert race to get Brian and an unconscious passenger to safety. His choice of wheels - a SUBARU WRX STI - couldn't be more perfect to get him across the sandy plains. Standard AWD and the hefty 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 290 horsepower make it a favorite of rally car racers and tuners alike. It sure seems like enough to get our antiheroes out of danger, but Dom's shotgun may ultimately have been the deciding factor.

--Alison Lakin

Preview: "Fast and Furious:" Racer's M5

2009-04-01T12:57:21Z

April 1, 2009 -- The E39 BMW 5-SERIES is one of those stealth vehicles that can sneak up on you with its mild-mannered luxury sedan looks, then blow your doors off with the acceleration that comes from its 400-horsepower V8 (when in the M configuration). But we've found that it's often in the losing end of a street race, as in "Ronin," and in this clip from "Fast and Furious." In the movie, all sedateness has been worn off, thanks to the eye-searing orange and black paint scheme that would look more appropriate on a Ford Mustang. But it sure pops from the dark background when plunging off a bridge, almost destroying Brian's (PAUL WALKER) WRX. -- Liz Kim

Preview: "Fast and Furious" Opening April 3rd

2009-03-31T13:43:24Z

March 31, 2009 - No movie featuring crazy, riced-out cars would be complete if it didn't include the now legend NISSAN SKYLINE R34 GT-R. The ultimate tuner car isn't produced anymore, making it even more of a hot commodity, but that doesn't stop Brian in "Fast and Furious" from tragically piloting one down an embankment and through some conveniently placed scaffolding. The high-tech navigation system may have said that taking a nosedive was the only way to catch up to Dom and a mysterious third racer, but why'd he have to scratch the paint!

--Alison Lakin

Preview: "Fast and Furious:" Dom's Charger

2009-03-30T11:27:29Z

March 30, 2009 -- Who knew that Nietzsche could be so sick? Injecting a bit of nihilism in the world of street racing, "Fast and Furious," number four in the series (they dropped the "the"), forces us to ask, who are the good guys? Don't bad guys turn good if they're talented and/or attractive enough? After all, Dominic Toretto, is really nothing but a two-bit thug, but the appeal of VIN DIESEL elevates him into a sympathetic two-bit thug for whom we all cheer as he pulls off heist after heist. His bete noir is a black 1970 DODGE CHARGER with a gigantic supercharger stuck out of the hood, resurrected from its untimely demise in the first movie. Powered by a V8 Hemi, it can scare the wings off of modified imports. In this clip he pulls a wheelstand in a CHEVY CHEVELLE SS.

-- Liz Kim

VIDEO: "That 70s Show" Canadian Roadtrip

2009-03-27T12:21:52Z

"That 70s Show" was a show that ran in the late 90s to the mid 00s about teens who are supposed to be living in the late 70s. Got that? As the site of many adventures and shenanigans, the gold OLDSMOBILE VISTA CRUISER STATION WAGON from the late 60s was an inanimate co-star of the show. Lovingly maintained by Eric's dad before it changed hands, it featured glass sunroof over the rear seating area, which consisted of a transverse skylight over the second seat and small longitudinal skylights directly over the rear cargo-area windows. Offering incomparable views of the suburban night sky, it was witness to the many musing, one-liners, and even some bodily fluids of the likes of TOPHER GRACE and ASHTON KUTCHER. - Liz Kim

Adrien Has A Thrill For The Dramatic

2009-03-26T14:26:14Z

Los Angeles, Ca. - Academy Award winner ADRIEN BRODY is known around town for his playboy ways, confirmed by his dramatic kiss with Halle Berry after claiming the golden statuette. A debonair kind of guy needs a car equally as smooth and unabashed, which is why the AUDI TT ROADSTER fits the bill. We can't confirm from the pictures alone, but we'd bet money Adrien's TT has the larger 3.2-liter engine. Its 250 hp propels the convertible to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds - not bad for a V6 - and the nicely balanced car can carve through the most technical of mountain roads without the driver breaking a sweat. Touché, Mr. Brody, Touché.

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Hart to Hart"

2009-03-25T11:20:13Z

Where can we find a husband like Jonathan Hart, self-made millionaire of "Hart to Hart"? Not only was he handsome, witty, and debonaire (no wonder CARY GRANT was initially offered the role before it went to ROBERT WAGONER), he was also super supportive of his wife's career, and always rescued her when she got herself into a jam. His stable of cars included a Rolls, Bentley, Aston Martin and a Mercedes-Benz convertible and sedan, but we're partial to the red FERRARI DINO 246 GTS CONVERTIBLE that he drives alongside his wife in the show's opening montage. --Liz Kim

Fergies Smart Ride

2009-03-24T14:20:18Z

Los Angeles, Ca. - Everyday we see plenty of stars doing things the average person would do, but every once and awhile we catch a glimpse of their abnormally luxurious lifestyle. FERGIE seems to be living the good life, being driven to her celeb-studded hair salon (Cameron Diaz also goes there) in a CHEVROLET TAHOE. While we could think of a few cars we'd prefer to be chauffeured around town in (a Bentley, Mercedes-Benz, you get the idea) the Tahoe is still a fine choice. It can come with a number of pretty cool standard features like a Bose surround-sound system and Bluetooth connectivity, and the ride just gets better when you delve into the options. With an available DVD player for riders in the rear rows, it's surprising that Fergie wasn't spotted slipping out of the backseat.

--Alison Lakin

Love's New Convertible

2009-03-23T11:00:51Z

Hollywood, California -- A couple of years ago, we were attending the press days of the Los Angeles Auto Show, where manufacturers trot out celebrities and fancy finger foods in hopes of luring bored journalists to their press conference and writing something nice about their cars. And it was a pleasure to see JENNIFER LOVE HEWITT spend about 3 minutes extolling the virtues of the new CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE, even though it's not exactly the jewel on the Chrysler crown. However, for her four-seat convertible purchase, she eschewed the maligned American car and decided to go the predictable route of choosing the classy BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC in a nice, milky color. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 Online

VIDEO: "DOLLHOUSE" The Target

2009-03-19T11:20:23Z

In the show, DOLLHOUSE - the newest creation from Buffy and Firefly creator, Joss Whedon - men and women's minds are routinely wiped clean to make room for a customizable personality perfectly suited for their paying customers. As dirty as it sounds, sometimes the job isn't just about a weekend away with a wealthy client but rather a mission to save a kidnapped little girl or prevent a serial killer from striking again. Dollhouse members are assigned a handler to protect them on their adventures, and what would be a more appropriate vehicle for them to drive than the insanely customizable DODGE SPRINTER. Its use as a reconnaissance setup in the show hardly pushes the boundaries of its capabilities. 20 paint colors, three roof heights, possible seating for 12 or no seating at all are just a few options available. Like the personalities in the Dollhouse, the possibilities are endless. --Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Burn Notice:" Michael's Charger

2009-03-18T12:51:55Z

Spy thrillers have led you to expect that the secret agent has his choice of cars. And the choice is usually, Teutonic or British, sleek and very fast. Well, not in this spy thriller. In "Burn Notice," JEFFREY DONOVAN plays Michael Westen, a spy who gets booted off the grid and tries to find his tormentor. His ride of choice is a 1973 DODGE CHARGER, most likely the R/T with the mighty, tire-shredding 440 Magnum V8 making 370 horsepower. It was one of the major muscle cars and can fetch quite a pretty penny at current auctions. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: "Charlie's Angels:" Kris's Mustang

2009-03-18T12:36:59Z

Jiggly Party Queens, Unite! The 70s were a wealth of riches for connoisseurs of feathered hair, mystery, tight clothes and flying kicks. They all came to a delicious confluence in a little cultural phenomenon called "Charlie's Angels." Despite their beauty and spunk, neither lady detectives Sabrina nor Kelly were the star; that title belonged to the one and only Jill (FARRAH FAWCETT) and her kid sister Kris (CHERYL LADD). Cruising around in a white FORD MUSTANG COBRA II with blue racing stripes and a fire-and-brimstone 5.0-liter V8, weekly viewers knew that there was no case they couldn't solve without a bit of wile, pluck and braless courage. - Liz Kim

Are All Celeb Cars The Same?

2009-03-17T14:32:17Z

March 17, 2009 Malibu, Ca. - You have to wonder if there's a secret Car Commander in Hollywood, limiting celebrity car purchases to just a few models. If not, we're at a loss as to why they all seem to end up with the same kind! If it's not a Land Rover, Chevrolet Tahoe or a Bentley, then it's a LEXUS RX. We've already seen a couple stars in them, like Halle Berry, but the most recent devotee is none other than the South African glamazon, CHARLIZE THERON. She's the owner of a black RX400h, the hybrid version of the company's little, but powerful, SUV. Like most of Lexus' hybrids, the 27 mpg 400h easily balances luxury with green living. The next generation RX will boast a bigger engine and even more fuel savings, once again ensuring a spot on the celeb circuit.
X17 has more pictures here. http://x17online.com/gallery/view_gallery.php?gallery=CTheron031209_X17&index=3

--Alison Lakin

VIDEO: "Starsky and Hutch:" Starsky's Torino

2009-03-16T12:29:27Z

It was a bromance before the term was even coined. War-battered police detectives and soul mates David Starsky (PAUL MICHAEL GLASER) and Kenneth "Hutch" Hutchinson (DAVID SOUL) kept the fictional town of Bay City from sinking into metaphorical darkness, mostly by pulling cool stunts in the striped tomato FORD TORINO. And who can forget it? The eye-searing red paint. The vector stripe. The black vinyl seating. The whine of the V6 attached to the three-speed manual. It all takes us back to a safer time when we could curl up in the back seat, maybe with Huggy Bear, and feel utterly content. - Liz Kim

VIDEO: "Seinfeld:" George's LeBaron

2009-03-13T12:10:17Z

The lure of owning something that has been touched by greatness is sometimes irresistible. Witness the hundreds of thousands of dollars paid for Einstein's books. Or Marilyn Monroe's unmentionables. In George Costanza's (played by JASON ALEXANDER) case, it's a 1989 Chrysler LeBaron convertible that he has been told was once owned by Jon Voight. In the show, they say that it's a 1989 CHRYSLER LEBARON, but according to higher authorities it's actually a 1986 Mark Cross model with bodyside wood panels. Motivted by a 101-horsepower inline-four engine, it was built on the notorious Dodge/Plymouth K-car platform. Of course, George being George, the car actually belong to John Voight, dentist, rather than the actor.

http://www.tbs.com/video/index/#/all-video/shows/seinfeld/44007

- Liz Kim

VIDEO: Chuck Versus the Sensei

2009-03-12T14:19:34Z

Chuck is just an geeky guy who just happens to be helping the CIA on secret missions to protect the country from assassins, terrorists and general chaos. Eh, no big deal. As a cover, Chuck works at the Buy More - a setup devised to mimic giant consumer-electronic retailers. To transport members of the 'Nerd Herd' for at-home computer assistance, the store's enlisted the help of some brand-emblazoned TOYOTA MATRIXs. The petite (and budget-friendly) crossovers look mighty fine kitted out in the Nerd Herd logos, and every once and awhile they even get called up for duty when the CIA agents are in a bind. Isn't there something in their training manual about blending in?

Video: "Burn Notice:" Madeline's Lincoln

2009-03-11T11:57:36Z

Ah, mom. You can't live with them. And the thought of living without them is just as scary now as it was when we were 5. So it's no wonder then that when they say jump, we ruefully lace up our Air Jordans. And it's no different, even for an ex-spy with hundreds of murders under his belt, such as on "Burn Notice." Michael's mother, Madeline Westen (SHARON GLESS), who knows a thing or two about manipulation, drives an aged LINCOLN TOWNCAR that gets more than its fair share of abuse. But this old chestnut can take it; as the de facto vehicle for cop squads and taxi fleets everywhere in this great country, its roomy interior and spacious trunk, along with its rear-wheel drive platform and solid V8 have been servicing mothers and truculent sons for more than a decade. --Liz Kim

Matthew likes American Made

2009-03-10T14:05:00Z

March 9, 2009, Los Angeles, Ca. - MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY sure is a sucker for American-made cars. First, we saw his honey and him in the Lincoln Navigator and shortly after that, he was hooking up his trailer to a Ford F-250. But now he's comfortably settled into his white GMC YUKON. With three rows of seats and tons of legroom, the large SUV is perfect for his family of...three. Umm, maybe they each get a row to themselves. Just because it's a rugged SUV doesn't mean it can't come loaded with bells and whistles. The top-of-the-line Yukon comes standard with a kicking Bose audio system. Since Matthew's back in town to promote Mishka's latest release from his record label, nine speakers and a subwoofer are just what he needs to blast the reggae hit through the 108.9 cubic inches of interior space.
Popsugar has the details.

--Alison Lakin

Video: "Burn Notice:" Fiona's Saab

2009-03-09T11:52:35Z

Everyone needs a sidekick/superhot girlfriend to get them out of a jam. Even if you're not an ex-spy stuck in Miami. In "Burn Notice," GABRIELLE ANWAR is Fiona Glenanne, a former IRA foot soldier (remember when these guys used to be the terrorists? Those were the good, predictable days) who creates as much chaos as she helps resolve. Behind the wheel of a SAAB 9-3 AERO, she pulls some pretty gnarley stunts, especially considering the front-wheel drive, torque-steer heavy, cushy nature of the boulevardier. But hey, it's turbocharged! It must be sporty! Anyway the convertible lets her long brunette locks flow, which is the whole point.

--Liz Kim

Video: Arrested Development: The Bluth's Benz

2009-03-06T12:50:14Z

It's our favorite broken family. The wealthy and maniacal Bluths, of the late bereaved "Arrested Development," amused their small but loyal audience with their antics to maintain their colossally selfish lifestyles in the midst of financial ruin; it was truly a show before its time. In this clip, Michael Bluth (JASON BATEMAN) is driving his family's MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS of three generations past in what is ultimately a thwarted attempt to move him and his son, George Michael, away from his toxic family to Phoenix. This Benz was the one to introduce safety features like passenger side airbags and traction control; too bad there's no car out there that can protect you from a dysfunctional family.

--Liz Kim

Tragedy for Jay Kay's Ferrari

2009-03-05T15:05:44Z

March 3, 2009 - There are car owners, and then there are car owners. Singer and songwriter, JAY KAY, is a prestigious member of the latter group. The Jamiroquai frontman has four Ferraris, a few Porsches and countless other extremely fast and extremely expensive cars. The one we're interested in today in his FERRARI ENZO, dubbed one of the best Ferraris ever made - high praise indeed. Just 400 of the 2003 model year cars were produced and, while the car was originally priced at $643,000, their rarity ensures the resale numbers reach over $1million nowadays.

A car like that will inevitably attract all kinds of attention and Jay Kay's beloved Enzo was the recent victim of an attack, by a pastry chef, no less. Apparently Jay upset him in some way, causing him to exact revenge - £30,000 worth - on the supercar by smashing up the windows and hood. If a car is an extension of one's self, Jay must be hurting pretty badly right now.
The Daily Mail has the full story.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-1158781/Chef-tells-court-smashed-Jay-Kays-1m-Ferrari-singer-offensive-remarks.html

Rachel Bilson is engaged

2009-03-04T10:47:27Z

Hollywood, California -- There's cute as a button RACHEL BILSON, sporting a sassy red bag and a brand-new sparker, courtesy of her fiancée HAYDEN CHRISTIANSON. They met on the set of the movie Jumper, in which Christianson's character can instantaneously jump from one locale to another. Unfortunately we mere mortals don't have this spiffy ability, although it would help avoid the ghastly experience at he airport; even Miss Bilson sometimes has to schlep around in this older JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. But considering that it's a decent ride on the road and off, it's not too much of a punishment. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 Online

Halle's Hot Man and SUV

2009-03-03T16:50:44Z

February 3, 2009 - HALLE BERRY may be one of the world's most beautiful women, but we'd risk saying that her guy, GABRIEL AUBREY of male model (semi)fame, might even be more gorgeous. It's only fitting that these sexy celebrities have a luxury car, but a LEXUS RX400h. They seem more of a sleek sedan type of couple instead of one interested in an overly-rounded hybrid SUV. Of course, the addition of their young daughter to the mix deems it necessary to have the space you find in an SUV like this, and expressing ecological concern with the RX's 25 mpg combined is just as important in today's environment. And even though it's not a hot sports car, the Lexus hybrid seems perfect for their needs. Popsugar caught all the action.

--Alison Lakin

Video: "Rockford Files" Firebird

2009-03-02T12:57:29Z

Every red-blooded male growing up in the 70s fantasized about driving like Jim Rockford, of the Rockford Files. Whether he was pulling those famous J-turns (also known as reverse 180s) or just generally wreaking havoc on the roads of LA, Jim Rockford, P.I. (played by JAMES GARNER) beat the hell out of the PONTIAC FIREBIRD ESPRIT, but both came out looking no worse for the wear by the end of the episode. Pontiac would make sure that the show received a new model every year to keep current; it remains in our collective consciousness. As with every other TV show that has been remade into a feature film in the last few years, we'll expect to see it on the big screen sometime soon.

- Liz Kim

Chris Brown and the infamous Lambo

2009-02-27T13:45:42Z

February 7, 2009, Los Angeles, California -- Some cars will live in infamy, thanks to the notorious actions of their drivers or passengers: OJ and the BRONCO. Britney and the MINI COOPER. And now, CHRIS BROWN and the LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO SPYDER LP560-4, which was the car in which Mr. Brown had his altercation with girlfriend RIHANNA. At least this vehicle is more interesting; the exotic sports car, in its convertible form, is powered by a mid-mounted 5.0-liter V10 engine that sends a neck snapping 552 horsepower to all four wheels. Should someone find himself on the wrong side of the law, he can make a quick getaway, with a zero-to60 sprint time of 3.5 seconds. Of course, no one can outrun a bad reputation; just ask Ike Turner.

-- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 Online

Not Your Average Teenage Car

2009-02-26T16:16:37Z

February 26, 2009, Hollywood, Ca. - If they get a car at all, most normal teenagers find themselves sitting in used junkers or cheap, reliable compacts like Honda Civics. If a particular teen happens to have millions in the bank, a hit TV show and a recent album release, she might be considered on the abnormal side. Yes, MILEY CYRUS is not even remotely similar to the average teen - except in her penchant for inappropriate funny faces. Her latest car (she's only 16!), according to x17, is an AUDI A4 CABRIOLET. The interior boasts leather seats, Bluetooth connectivity and a bevy of other tech features to keep Miley happy. It also has no shortage of get-up-and-go, with its 3.2-liter engine making a boisterous 255 hp. That's a lot of power for a girl who's still fine-tuning the art of talking to boys.

http://x17online.com/gallery/view_gallery.php?gallery=MCyrusConvertible022209_X17&index=4

--Alison Lakin

Video: "Californication;" Marci's Mercedes

2009-02-25T11:41:07Z

Whether she's dealing with a husband who got fired from his high-powered job for treating his body like an amusement park at his office, gets a gig as the agent for a porn star, then embarks an affair with said porn star, or handling the ins and outs of being a bikini waxer, Marci (PAMELA ADLON) overcomes it all with a terrific potty mouth and dry-pan delivery. In this scene she pulls up in her MERCEDES-BENZ SL550 to find her house being used as a set for a porn movie. Nobody deserves that, even if she sniffed up their life savings.

- Liz Kim

Gwyneth's Non Oscar Night

2009-02-24T14:52:54Z

February 24, 2009, London, England - With all the excitement and buzz over the Oscars this year, one actress was conspicuously absent from the festivities. GWYNETH PALTROW, who won the Best Actress award in 1998 for Shakespeare in Love, didn't make the trek to Los Angeles like her peers. Instead of donning a gown and strolling the red carpet, Just Jared caught her performing mommy duties picking up her daughter, Apple, from school. Even though she's miles away from Hollywood, Gwyneth remains on-trend in Toyota's most eco-friendly vehicle, the PRIUS. The 45 mpg hybrid can maneuver the narrow streets of London silently and fuel-efficiently, giving her peace and quiet to ponder why she wasn't nominated for her work in Iron Man.

JustJared.buzznet.com

--Alison Lakin

Rekindled Romance

2009-02-19T15:50:53Z

February 19, 2009, LAX - We've always secretly harbored thoughts that BALTHAZAR GETTY looked remarkably similar to a Mr. Charlie Sheen, of Platoon and Heidi Fleiss client list fame. So forgive us when we say that despite Balthazar having starred in Brothers & Sisters for the past three years, we generally know him as Sienna Miller's boyfriend. Popsugar has all the details, but the two lovebirds were caught passionately reuniting outside LAX before hopping into Balthazar's LEXUS GS450h. The popular hybrid combines fuel-efficiency - at 25 mpg highway - with luxurious appointments and performance, 340 horses of it, to be exact. Considerably cheaper than Lexus' flagship hybrid, the LS600h, the GS still clocks in at $56,400. But what's a little money for clean emissions.

--Alison Lakin

A Medium's Ride

2009-02-17T13:03:45Z

February 17, 2009 - The TV show MEDIUM has been on the air since 2005, and there's a good reason why. Each episode focuses on a crime that Allison Debois sees happen in her dreams and must solve with the help of ghosts. Bizarre, right? Fighting disbelievers and normal life challenges, Allison bends the law to see the criminals brought to justice. If that weren't enough to deal with, her kids developed the supernatural powers as well. Daughter Ariel, who attempts to juggle ghosts, teenage boys and moody episodes, is seen here driving their JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE. It's a good family car, for sure, but with optional full-time all-wheel drive and a powerful V6 engine we think it's perfect to get the family to the scene of a crime without paranormal guidance.

--Alison Lakin

Brooke Burke rides tall

2009-02-16T13:26:58Z

February 16, 2009, Los Angeles, California - "Dancing with the Stars" winner and gadabout town BROOKE BURKE has an amazing body, especially considering that she's a mother of four (including a daughter named Heaven Rain - we guess it's payback for having a name that sounds like a men's haberdashery.) She's definitely in need of a vehicle that can provide the room for her brood; she made a wise choice in the CADILLAC ESCALADE. With room for up to eight plus a choice of a powerful V8 or a less-thirsty Hybrid version, the 'Slade has a lot to offer. Plus, like Brooke Burke, it's got moves - with an athletically tuned suspension and 20-inch wheels, it's actually pretty fun to drive.

- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17 online

Video - "Californication:" Hank's Porsche

2009-02-13T13:22:51Z

Everyone knows a guy like Hank Moody on "Californication." A world-class jerk. Not particularly good-looking. Biggest hobby is to screw up everything good in his life. But he's got charisma, dammit, he's talented at what he does, and women lap up his bad-boy schtick like catnip. Played with fire by DAVID DUCHOVNY, Hank is a sometime novelist who moves from New York to California with the best of intentions and the worst impulse control we've ever seen. His addictions range from sex to every power, pill and liquid that Hollywood has to offer. His first order of business when he lands in Cali is to buy an appropriate car; appropriately, he drives a PORSCHE 911 CABRIOLET which has endured its fair share of abuse, nicely mirroring Hank's life. - Liz Kim

Want To Ride Like Britney?

2009-02-12T17:35:34Z

February 12, 2009 - When BRITNEY SPEARS fell from grace, what was a funny spectacle at first quickly became an excruciating tragedy. It's hard to watch a life dissolve into complete ruin, which is why we're rooting for her major comeback to continue. She has her kids back, the hair has grown and catchy dance mixes are flowing once again. Here she is leaving the set of her video for "If You Seek Amy" in the cute-as-a-button MINI COOPER S CONVERTIBLE, a car that seems to fit her newly rediscovered, bubbly personality. The S trim is as sporty as they come, and delivers 172 horsepower. It doesn't seem like much, but it's plenty enough to get the 12-foot-long car to 60 mph in just 7 seconds. Good thing Brit isn't rocking the wigs anymore.

-- Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: www.miniusa.com

Video: "Californication:" Karen's Prius

2009-02-11T13:00:36Z

Sometimes, even when we know what's good for us, even when we recognize that someone is the love of our lives, we still choose to let them go. For Hank Moody on "Californication," that someone is the long-suffering Karen van der Beek, played by the gorgeous Natascha McElhone. A seemingly bright woman, talented, smart, a bit of a beatnik, Karen drives a TOYOTA PRIUS to save the world; yet she can't save herself from her bete noire, her love for Hank. Their relationship spans more than a decade, and is bound by their offspring. One of those characters for whom sensible viewers may tut tut for her incomprehensible choices, but we all know that romance and its corresponding heartbreak will win every time. - Liz Kim

Tyra's Curvy New Model

2009-02-10T15:30:54Z

February 10, 2009 - For most people in America, TYRA BANKS is known as the beautifully curvy model seen in the pages of Victoria's Secret catalogs. After all, that's how she first made her way into homes across the country. Now retired from her craft - at the ancient age of 35 - she writes, produces and presents America's Next Top Model. She may claim that her long tyrades (see what we did there?) directed at impressionable models are written into the show, but they certainly smack of reckless crazy talk. What isn't insane, however, is her choice of car: a MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS. Available with either a V8 or V12 engine, the German feat of engineering starts at $90k and can reach $200,000 for the AMG-tuned monsters. Shaping the reality TV careers of young models must be paying off nicely.
http://x17online.com/gallery/view_gallery.php?gallery=banks020709_X17&index=18

--Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: Mercedes-Benz

Super Bowl XLIII Ads: Toyota Venza

2009-02-09T13:37:44Z

After caressing shots of objets d'art that echoes the lines of the Toyota's new crossover vehicle, The ad asks us to ask ourselves: "Are you a Venza?" Uh, sure? The TOYOTA VENZA is the newest midsize high station wagon that gives the high seating position and cargo space (70.1 cubic feet) of an SUV, but drives and behaves like a sedan since it shares its underpinnings with that most benign of vehicles, the TOYOTA CAMRY. And like the ultra successful NISSAN MURANO, its appeal is less utilitarian and more artful. Available with a 182 horsepower inline-four engine or a 268 hp V6, we're sure we'll soon be seeing many of these on the road. - Liz Kim

Super Bowl XLIII Ads: Audi A6

2009-02-06T12:36:08Z

It was a mini movie onto itself. Our favorite ad of the night was for the AUDI A6, starring an ogre-mugged Jason Statham. The concept is a car chase throughout the decades, with our hero in various luxury sedans with their drivers corresponding fashion - starting with a Mercedes in the 70s, a BMW in the 80s and - ugh, with an exasperated sigh, a Lexus in the 90s, being chased by bad guys in American automobiles. Cut to the present; Statham, looking elegant and suave, steals the keys to the Audi A6 sedan, available in regularly aspirated and supercharged flavors, and outfoxes his pursuers on their speed bikes. It had action. It had suspense. It had comedy. Great job. - Liz Kim

Super Bowl XLIII Ads: Toyota Tundra

2009-02-05T18:42:02Z

Last year, Toyota wowed spectators with commercials featuring the full-size truck, the TOYOTA TUNDRA, performing comically dramatic, superhuman (superpickup?) feats. They keep the tradition alive this year as well, with the Tundra and its 5-ton towing capacity climbing a steeply graded helix enhanced with an extra boost of heat. We were a bit befuddled when the gravel-voiced announcer spoke of trannies - was RuPaul the driver? - but realized that he was actually talking about the heavy-duty transmission, available in 5- or 6-speed varieties. We like these commercials for their dramatic impact; they show the trucks in extenuating circumstances but the potential buyer can imagine their capabilities in real-life situations. - Liz Kim

Donna & Kelly reunited

2009-02-05T14:45:10Z

February 5, 2009, Beverly Hills, Ca. - It's not your eyes deceiving you, that really is Donna and Kelly united again in the name of 90210. If this isn't a fantasy come true for every child of the '90s then we don't know what would be. Wearing flannel and being serenaded by Kris Kross maybe? This may be just a scene that TORI SPELLING and JENNIE GARTH are filming in Beverly Hills, but there's nothing fake about that gorgeous ROLLS-ROYCE convertible they're zipping around in between shopping stops. The British company has been around for over 100 years, and this classic example shows off the traditional elegance the brand is known for. How that fits in with bleached blondes, big sunglasses and a smidgen of plastic surgery, we have no idea. Our friends at PopSugar have the whole album http://www.popsugar.com/2765877?page=0,0,2

--Alison Lakin

Paris Hilton's Folly

2009-02-04T21:54:16Z

February 4, 2009, Hollywood, California -- PARIS HILTON is known for many things. But sophistication, restraint and refinement don't really make the list. To that end, we present to you our top award for Tasteless Consumption: Miss Hilton's custom-outfitted Barbie-pink BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT. Stunningly unremorseful in all of its grotesque glory, with its rose-hued grille and inserts, it makes you long for the subtle charms of Mary Kay Cadillacs. Even Angelyne's Corvette isn't this ostentatious. And to use a Continental GT, with its elegant lines, as the vehicle for Paris' folly, is an affront to all that is good and pure in automotive. J'accuse, Miss Hilton. J'accuse.

- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17 online

John Mayer Trades Up

2009-02-03T15:46:23Z

February 3, 2009, Los Angeles, Ca. - JOHN 'your body is a wonderland' MAYER seems to have expensive and diverse taste in automobiles. We first saw him and his newly shorn head back in July looking tough in his hardcore LAND ROVER DEFENDER But the pop singer has donned a North Face jacket and traded up in a major way to the super sexy AUDI R8. We'd be impressed if we weren't so jealous. The stunning sports car hits 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds with its 420 hp, but the $114,200 MSRP coipe a smile off any buyer's face. Not that we think Mayer even gave the price tag a second glance.

[Source: Popsugar] http://www.popsugar.com/2746035?page=0,0,1

--Alison Lakin

Courtney Love is subdued

2009-01-28T14:17:43Z

January 28, 2009, Los Angeles, California - COURTNEY LOVE may be known for many things, but being sleek, stylish and elegant in a subdued way is not one of them. So it's a bit baffling as to why she's driven in a black MERCEDES-BENZ S550, which is the very definition of non-flashy good taste. The full-size luxury sedan, with its genteel curves and austere interior exudes refinement without screaming "Look at me!" And, of course, it has muscle, in the form of a 382-horsepower V8, as well as the electronic bling-blang to back up its legendary reputation. Maybe Ms. Love needs a nice, subtle background to express her, uh, artistic flamboyance and turn-your-head fashion choices. . - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 online

Video: Dodge Rams into new Terminator series

2009-01-27T16:11:33Z

January 27, 2009 - Eons ago, in 1984, the first Terminator movie was released. The storyline was intriguing enough to spawn two sequels, a third is on the way this year, and a TV series called TERMINATOR: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. The TV show, currently in its second season, follows Sarah and her son, John, as they continue the fight against unstoppable machines hell-bent on destroying the human race. Light stuff, right? To help them out is the DODGE RAM pickup. Redesigned for 2009, the Ram features a softer riding suspension and in-bed storage bins situated over the wheel wells - perfect for easy access to weapons and body armor. Normal people just use the space for muddy boots and beer cans.

Video "The Office:" Andy's Prius

2009-01-26T13:54:17Z

Andy Bernard, played by ED HELMS, is an Ivy League-educated, unrepentant suck-up who lacks the Dwight righteous-cool factor. The TOYOTA PRIUS is the vehicle he bought after his sojourn to anger management clinic; his ride before that was the rough-and-tumble NISSAN XTERRA. But, as cars they drive don't really change the people who drive them, Andy still has rage issues. Cuckholded by his fiancée, Angela, who continues to know Dwight in the biblical sense, Andy finally learns the truth about her. He attempts to squish his nemesis, Dwight, by creeping up on him in the parking lot; he does so by driving his TOYOTA PRIUS in silent, all-electric mode. - Liz Kim

Camilla Alves is nicely shaped

2009-01-23T13:43:50Z

January 11, 2009, Malibu, California - We can only imagine the sheer pressure to keep your body in tip top shape when you're the significant other of a Hollywood glam king. Multiply that to the nth power when the SO is Matthew McConnaughy, he of the abs of titanium. So we're not too surprised that mere months after giving birth to his baby, CAMILLA ALVES looks as toned and fabulous as she does. Here, she's exiting a white LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER, a vehicle considerably more glamorous than Mr. McConnaughy's usual trove of transport thanks to its luxurious, beautifully designed interior and an instantly recognizable silhouette. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 online

Video: Jack Bauer's Run of the Mill Ride

2009-01-22T15:14:51Z

January 22, 2009 - When a man has killed hundreds of terrorists, practically died half a dozen times and interrogated suspects without a hint of remorse, you know he's something of a badass. Attach that description to the name JACK BAUER and you can hear the bad guys running for their lives. CTU agent Bauer will do anything for his country, including driving a run-of-the-mill FORD EXPLORER. We'd like to imagine our hero has somehow souped-up the Explorer to deliver a huge amount of horsepower, but we'd be wrong. He makes do with the 292 hp that the 4.6-liter V8 pumps out. Though, you can bet that the trunk's full of Glock 19s, Mossberg 590s and a pick ax or two. Here is the full episode thanks to Hulu.com

--Alison Lakin

Mickey Rourke defies death

2009-01-21T12:19:36Z

January 21, 2009, Hollywood, California - Appalled. Fascinated. Repulsed. And intrigued. Those were just some of the emotions that we felt when we saw the trainwreck formerly known as MICKEY ROURKE at the scene of his triumph/humiliation at the Golden Globe awards. We aren't the only ones who remembered Rourke at his prime - who could forget 91/2 Weeks? But America loves a resurrection/comeback story. How appropriate that, after he cheated death (that's Hollywood speak for irrelevance or oblivion), he's walking in front of a FORD FLEX, which is noted for its spaciousness, cool features like a built-in fridge and a 115-volt power outlet, but mostly for its resemblance of a funeral hearse. - Liz Kim.

Photo Credit: X17 online

A Hybrid Entourage

2009-01-20T15:12:48Z

January 20, 2009, Malibu, Ca. - Famous for playing a struggling actor whose ego doesn't quite match his piddling résumé in HBO's Entourage, KEVIN DILLON surprises us by being refreshingly normal in real life. He drove his family around Malibu today in their FORD ESCAPE HYBRID, a far cry from the pimped out 1965 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL Johnny Drama owns. Talk about being environmentally conscious - the Escape gets the best gas mileage of any hybrid SUV on the market. And it starts at just under $30,000. Ford also sweetens the pot by providing SYNC, a high-tech, voice-activated multimedia system, as a standard feature. Perfect for keeping Kevin's own entourage happy.

--Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: x17online.com

Seinfeld Video: Jerry's BMW and Saab

2009-01-19T13:26:45Z

Jerry Seinfeld is a well-known car connoisseur, and has made waves within his New York enclave over his ginormous garage to house his impressive Porsche collection. So it was only fitting that his eponymous character be a car guy as well. Jerry drove a third-generation E34 BMW 5 SERIES in season 4 of the show, only to have to rid himself of it when a valet impregnated the interior with his body odor. When we next see Jerry he's in a black SAAB 900 SE convertible, which seems a bit of a non sequitur. It starts to make sense when you consider that Saab used to make cars that were quirky and fun to drive; now they're locked in a contest with Acura to see who can produce the ugliest vehicle on the road. - Liz Kim

http://www.tbs.com/video/0,,46206|314580|,00.html?eref=sharethisUrl

Chris Noth is hanging out

2009-01-16T13:14:03Z

January 16, 2009, Hollywood, California -- We don't like seeing celebrities in person. Few seem larger in life than on the screen, and we prefer to maintain the image crafted by Hollywood. We remember seeing CHRIS NOTH a few years back in the Upper West Side and was surprised by his pallor and stature. Mr. Big was not so big, and watching SATC was never the same. It's odd seeing him in the SoCal sunshine as well. Here, he's walking in front of an INFINITI FX45, which was a pretty revolutionary vehicle when it was introduced in 2003. With its "bionic cheetah" looks and sports car performance, it made a big impression on those who wanted a bit more utility than a sedan. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 online

A lil SUV for lil Tis!

2009-01-15T15:07:48Z

January 15, 2009, Hollywood, Ca. - Apparently Vanessa Hudgens wasn't the only star of High School Musical running around Hollywood recently. The newly brunette ASHLEY TISDALE was seen taking a quick trip to her local Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf for her daily fix. Now she plays a conniving drama queen in the money machine that is HSM, but in real life she seems much more down to earth. Take her RANGE ROVER SPORT, sure it's an SUV, but it's the smallest in the Range Rover lineup - and the cheapest! And since everyone in LA seems to have one of these, the Tis can't be looking to stand out much. What she can do, however, is make a hasty exit thanks to its powerful V8 and 300 hp. Let's hope she doesn't spill her vat of caffeine as she steps on it.

--Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Brandy is back!

2009-01-14T13:04:06Z

January 14, 2009, Beverly Hills, California -- We're glad to see BRANDY out and about Beverly Hills. She was exonerated from a fatal car accident on the freeway a few years back and unfortunately haven't heard much from her since, but she's looking saucy and sassy and ready to regain her footing in the entertainment world. We enjoyed her wholesome talent and wish her well. Here, she's stepping out of a tasteful black LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER in a kicky hat and matching Vuitton purse and boots. We know it's difficult to get over a traumatic event but it's a great time to begin anew. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17 online

Salma Hayek is pure gold

2009-01-13T15:55:27Z

January 13, 2009, Hollywood, Ca. - While SALMA HAYEK wasn't personally in the running for any Golden Globes this year, she did arrive in Hollywood to present an award and support two nominated shows of which she's been a part. As Executive Producer for Ugly Betty, she was there for best actress nominee, America Ferrera. But Hayek also made a guest appearance on 30 Rock, which scored a Golden Globe when Tina Fey beat out America for best actress in a TV comedy. Before all the drama began, the gorgeous brunette walked the red carpet looking radiant in her Dior gown. The black CADILLAC ESCALADE behind her makes her dress - and curves - stand out even more. The 403 hp Escalade is a good choice for award ceremony transportation; lots of legroom means the outfit stays unrumpled and an optional Bose stereo system keeps pre-presenting jitters at bay. And now that General Motors has announced that they're holding onto the brand, we can expect to see these SUVs dropping celebrities off for years to come.

--Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

President Obama is invincible

2009-01-12T15:55:17Z

January 12, 2008 -- Presidential limousines have come in two flavors since the 60s - Lincolns and Cadillacs. Up to the Reagon era, we saw Lincolns serving as chariots for the Commander in Chief; henceforth the POTUS was transported in shiny Caddies. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA continues the tradition with a one-of-a-kind Cadillac designed to look like a CADILLAC DTS, but fortified with every protective measure known to the civilized world. Starting with its 8-inch thick doors and nearly 2-inch-thick windows to the battalion of armored plates underneath, we hope that it will foil any dastardly deeds. And state-of-the-art communications systems will keep the President well-informed of any goings on in this crazy world. No, with its ponderous weight and the ability to speed away from untoward conduct, it probably won't be the greenest vehicle available, but hopefully it will do its job of protecting its precious occupants from any kind of disaster. We think that Bernie Madoff could probably use one of these as well in the coming months. - Liz Kim

http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/01/06/driving.obama/

Knight Rider Rolls On

2009-01-08T13:28:16Z

The original KNIGHT RIDER series died a sad death in 1986, and we suffered the loss of the much-loved Knight Industries Two Thousand (that's KITT to you). However, thanks to the trend of reviving pretty much every cool show from the '80s, Knight Rider is back. And to replace the first KITT, which was the most awesome looking 1982 PONTIAC TRANS AM, the producers found a worthy vehicle: the FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500KR. No car can truly take the place of the Trans Am, however, the blacked-out and newly talkative Mustang does a pretty good job of watching Michael Knight's back with its 5.4-liter V8 and 540 horsepower - while in 'Hero Mode', of course. - Alison Lakin

"The Office:" Meredith Palmer and the Ford Windstar

2009-01-07T14:18:20Z

Looks can be deceiving; Meredith Palmer (KATE FLANNERY)looks like just a normal, middle aged woman beaten down by the rigors of life, but she's secretly the office lush and hussy. Guzzling anything fermented, flashing somewhat unwilling bystanders and propositioning anything that moves, Meredith is an amusing train wreck that we all hope to avoid. We also want to stay away from her car, a FORD WINDSTAR minivan which she drives with as much care as she chooses her drink. The Ford minivans were never as refined, innovative or useful as their American or Japanese counterparts, and it's no wonder that Ford stopped building them a few years back.

--Liz Kim

Peek-a-boo, Vanessa, we see you!

2009-01-06T14:31:26Z

January 6, 2009, Studio City, Ca. - Don't worry, VANESSA HUDGENS, of High School Musical fame, isn't attempting to drive with her eyes closed - though it wouldn't be the first time a star has tried it - she's merely covering her face to avoid getting snapped by the paparazzi. Er, nice try with that one. Her shiny new AUDI S4 isn't helping her to fly under the radar either, however, as the beautiful four-door easily garners attention. And if the body design fails to turn heads, the roar of the 4.2-liter V8 engine would definitely do the trick. So much for keeping things low profile.

--Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: x17online.com

"The Office:" Dwight Schrute and the Pontiac Trans Am

2009-01-05T14:15:46Z

We're big fans of Dwight Schrute (played with gusto by the inimitable RAINN WILSON), the apotheosis of the smug nerd. Unapologetic in his rancor toward reason and reveling in his all of his unhip glory, in Dwight's mind he is the lord and master of his little fiefdom of righteousness. The perfect ride for Dwight is a Barney-purple third-generation PONTIAC FIREBIRD TRANS AM GTA, which is just as unstylish and lumpy as its driver. Powered by a big-block 5.7-liter V8 engine that made a then-impressive 240 horsepower, the Pontiac blustered and wallowed all over the American roads. Much like Dwight himself.

--Liz Kim

"The Office:" Jim Halpert and his Saabs

2009-01-02T13:48:40Z

JOHN KRASINSKY is Jim Halpert, "The Office" cool guy who marches to the beat of a more normal drum than anyone else in the cubicle farm. When the show started we saw Jim driving a bland-as-dirt TOYOTA COROLLA; since then he's moved up in the world, as well as on the corporate ladder. His first grown-up car was a SAAB 9-2X, a thinly disguised and better equipped SUBARU WRX (the offspring of a short, unfortunate merger between Subaru and GM). Now he's driving a SAAB 9-3. Saab may be a candidate for GM-bailout euthanasia, but amongst car aficionados it still commands respect for its quirky and innovative features.

--Liz Kim

007's Latest Adventure

2009-01-01T13:40:09Z

007's latest adventure in QUANTUM OF SOLACE leads him on an uncertain path of blind anger and revenge, ensuring that general chaos follows in his wake for the entire 105-minute running time. We wish, however, that chaos stayed far away from James Bond's precious car, the Aston Martin DBS V12. Alas, because of the nature of the filming - the chase is performed dangerously close to a lake - six of the powerful, $265,000 coupes were completely destroyed. Can you hear our hearts breaking? - Alison Lakin

Michael Keaton is cold

2008-12-31T14:38:34Z

December 15, 2008, Brentwood, California - It's been a bitter, bitter late fall thus far in Southern California. With temperatures ranging from an artic low forties to the bone-chilling upper 60s, the past week has been rough for even hardy Angelinos used to the deep freeze. Those wimps in Buffalo have nothing on us. It's always fun to see sun-worshipping celebs bundled up in LA in woolens and leathers, such as this picture of MICHAEL KEATON entering his PORSCHE CAYENNE. We haven't seen anything from Mr. Keaton in awhile, but those royalties from Mr. Mom must still be rolling in (it was just on cable last week). - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Starsky and Hutch's Striped Tomato

2008-12-30T14:24:47Z

Who could tire of watching the crazy exploits of David Starsky and Ken 'Hutch' Hutchinson in STARSKY AND HUTCH? It was the two California-based policeman against the world as they tore around the streets in their 1975 and eventually 1976 FORD GRAN TORINO with red body paint and a wide, white stripe. The Ford's coloring consequently earned it the nickname the Striped Tomato. Starsky and Hutch used the car to chase after criminals and track down contacts like Huggy Bear, who gave them the inside scoop on deals going down. The characters were likeable and cool, but for us it was the Gran Torino that really made the show. - Alison Lakin

Mindy Cohn is casual

2008-12-29T14:19:49Z

December 29, 2008, Brentwood, California -- Once upon a time, a long, long while back, before the term "Must See TV" even existed (this was a looong time ago, my friends), there was a sacrosanct night of television that could not be disturbed. We shared in the trials and tribulations of two poor little boys adopted by a magnanimous, rich white man, and we swooned laughed along with those four perky girls in boarding school. Yes, we're talking about "Diff'rent Strokes" and "Facts of Life," and we have fond memories of those theme songs, even when they preceded the lame pedantic "very special episodes." Anyway here's MINDY COHN, aka Natalie, walking in front of a LINCOLN TOWN CAR. We'll bet she's meeting Tootie for some dessert and dishing about boys and what a jerk Blair is. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

"The Office:" Pam Beesley and the Toyota Yaris Unassuming.

2008-12-26T13:29:46Z

Quiet. Nondescript. Dependable. Those are words to describe Pam Beesley, played by JENNA FISCHER in "The Office," but which can also be applied to the TOYOTA YARIS. Pam is usually sweet and perky as can be, despite being stuck in a dead-end job, and you can't help but cheer for her can-do attitude. Likewise, the Yaris is an efficient econobox, powered by a modest 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 106 horsepower. No one will drive it for its sporty performance or flashy design, but it delivers competent execution day by day and every once in awhile it gets noticed for its peppy demeanor and cute exterior.

--Liz Kim

Russell Crowe is sporty

2008-12-24T13:19:01Z

December 24, 2008, Los Angeles, California - RUSSELL CROWE is one of the more surly celebrities lighting up the Hollywood firmament. So it's nice to see him take a breather from his brooding and going on a nice bike ride around City of Angels. But wait, he's hitching said bike onto the back of a black CADILLAC ESCALADE, which is as insular and anti-social as any vehicle on the road today. At least he can take comfort in his solitary righteousness with 108.9 cubic feet of cargo space that's furnished with all the luxurious befitting such a big star. And with a 7000-pound towing capacity he can carry around all of the physical and psychological weight of the world. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

The A-Team's A-Plus Car!

2008-12-23T13:25:36Z

With a substantial series run from 1983-87, THE A-TEAM chronicled the exploits of a group of ex-military men on the run for a crime they didn't commit. The show also made a household name out of Mr. T, with his impressive gold chains, intense facial hair and too-tight pants. As "soldiers of fortune" the team needed a good set of wheels to get them out of trouble fast, which is where their 1983 GMC G-SERIES VAN becomes vital. The van was abused in every way - shot at, stripped, jumped over other vehicles - and yet it lived to fight on thanks to the efforts of unstoppable mechanic, B.A. Barachus. - Alison Lakin

"The Office:" Michael Scott and his Chrysler Convertibles

2008-12-22T15:10:49Z

STEVE CARELL plays Michael Scott in "The Office," portraying a mostly well-intentioned boob who manages to screw up everything he touches. Concerned more with the image of success than with any kind of real achievement, the cars he drives reflect his desire to be showy, but, like Michael, offer little substance to back it up. When the show started, Michael Scott was driving a CHRYSLER SEBRING CONVERTIBLE full of fast-food wrappers and empty bottles of generic brand Drakkar Noir. Sure, it's a convertible, but with its crappy interior and lame performance, the Sebring's only fans are vacationers who want a cheap topless rental in Florida or Hawaii. Now he's driving another lame Chrysler product, the CHRYSLER PT CRUISER CONVERTIBLE, which recently went out of production because it's something that most drivers won't touch with a ten-foot pole. A ten-foot pole? That's what she said.

--Liz Kim

Heather Locklear looks better

2008-12-19T13:23:16Z

December 4, 2008, Hollywood, California - HEATHER LOCKLEAR may have very well found the mysterious fountain of Dick Clark; it seems that she hasn't aged a day in the 30+ years that we've known her. Perhaps it's the string of rock god boyfriend/cohorts that keeps her youthful, despite her best efforts to ruin that perfect skin with the alleged substance abuse that led to a DUI a couple of months ago. In any case, she's driving a LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER, a car which, like its driver, ages very well. Although it's been more than 6 years since its introduction, it's still the handsome steed of choice for ageless prima donnas everywhere. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Rain Rain Go Away!

2008-12-18T16:27:50Z

December 18, 2008, Beverly Hills, Ca. - When the first storm of the year hits Southern California, LA residents tend to freak out. So use to sunshine for 10 months of the year, wading through torrential downpours and having to wear jackets and, gasp, rain gear throws their sun soaked routines out of whack. Surprisingly, native Californian, GWEN STEFANI, seems to be carrying on as usual. Aiding her family outing is Gwen's MERCEDES-BENZ R320. It can seat up to seven in the roomy, leather clad interior and the R-Class comes in four-wheel drive too - perfect for such inclement weather. - Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Mark Wahlberg is offended

2008-12-17T13:07:13Z

December 3, 2008, Hollywood, California - We love to see pictures of posh, privileged and adorable offsprings of celebrities. But as parents, we can certainly understand the ire of said celebrities when they feel like the paparazzi is getting too close to or impinging on the private space of their young 'uns. So we empathize with the look of fury on MARK WAHLBERG'S face as he's adopting a protective pose around his daughter Ella. At least car-wise, he can protect her the best way - the MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS is a virtual armada of safety features, including Mercedes' PreSafe system that senses the crash before it happens and automatically tightens up the seatbelts and moves the power seats for maximum airbag protection, as well as Night Vision Assist that detects objects far beyond headlight range.- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Michael Chiklis sensible detective?

2008-12-16T14:44:31Z

December 16, 2008 - Napa Valley, CA, MICHAEL CHIKLIS has a well deserved Golden Globe and Emmy on his mantle for his long-standing role as Detective Vic Mackey in The Shield. The corrupt but brutally efficient detective tends to use violence, blackmail, and even murder to get the crooks and pocket a little extra cash on the side. His choice of car tells us that the actor is a bit more sensible than the man he plays on TV. The refined 7-Series BMW was most recently put to use during a family outing in Napa Valley. But, with that V8 putting out 360 hp, we're betting he took the rear-wheel drive sedan for a spin on his own as well. There's no point in being too responsible. - Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Gwen Stefani drives ugly

2008-12-15T13:52:16Z

December 15, 2008, Los Angeles, California - GWEN STEFANI is one of those celebrities that always looks pretty good in public, whether or not she's prepared for the cold, impersonal eye of the lens. Her style has landed her on countless "Best Dressed" lists, and we personally dig her modern take on the classic platinum blond with bright red lips look. So it's a little bit baffling why she's driving a MERCEDES-BENZ R-CLASS, a car which we consider one of the ugliest on the road today. With its squat silhouette and doofy, elliptical headlamps, it's an odd duck combination. Still, it's the only Benz sold in the US that seats six passengers, so Gwen can accommodate her growing brood. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Queen Latifah waves to her subjects

2008-12-12T13:41:59Z

December 12, 2008, Los Angeles, California - For decades, Rolls Royce has been the ride of choice for royalty in both the Old World and the New, for those born into the role and the self-made titans who want to announce to the world that they can afford the best. And priced at just under half a million dollars, it's truly the best. It's only fitting, then, that QUEEN LATIFAH, a multimedia doyenne, should ferry herself in a ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPE. We haven't even spotted Queen Liz in Rolls' latest addition to the herd, but of course, the movers and shakers of Tinseltown have already adopted the four-seater convertible into the vernacular. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Christina shops in style!

2008-12-11T14:41:57Z

December 11, 2008 - Little kids can be pretty adorable, especially those with super cool outfits like that of CHRISTINA AGUILERA's son, Max. However, braving the Christmas shopping rush with a child who still cries when he's hungry can quickly become a nightmarish experience. We're sure the diva singer and her husband have an entourage to take care of things like whining and runny noses while they busy themselves with their purchases, but well-paid handlers can't quite compare to a well-handling SUV like the RANGE ROVER. It's quick - perfect for speeding away from the crowds - and comfy, with room in the back for Mrs. Bratman's numerous Barney's shopping bags and even a few toys for Max. - Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Al Pacino is odd

2008-12-10T12:31:06Z

December 10, 2008, Los Angeles, California - We don't know about you, but every time we catch "The Godfather" playing on cable we drop just about everything we're doing to watch the timeless tale of family, power and betrayal. Playing Michael Corleone with such mastery gives AL PACINO a pass for pretty much everything else he does with his life. It's a good thing, since he has tended to look a little bit unkempt as of late. Making questionable choices in projects. And making us wonder what happened to that once proud artist. At least his choice in vehicle is still rational - a previous generation TOYOTA LAND CRUISER is pretty much a versatile, do-it-all vehicle, both in town and over rough terrain. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Bruce drives like an action hero

2008-12-09T16:43:19Z

December 9, 2008 - Hollywood, Ca - BRUCE WILLIS seems to live out a far cushier life than the action heroes he plays on the big screen. Instead of getting beaten up by the bad guys, Bruce gets to sit behind the wheel of amazing sports cars and always gets the gorgeous - and blatantly too young - girl. And he luckily gets to do this without any pesky, save-the-world heroics his characters have to endure. Here he is outside the Four Seasons Hotel with girlfriend, Emma Hemming, picking up his black BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC from the valet. Rough, right? Able to reach speeds just shy of 200 mph in Bentley's 12-cylinder beast of a car, Bruce gets to easily fly down the road in the 552 hp drop-top. John Mclane ain't got nothing on that.

--Alison Larkin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Heidi Klum and another blonde

2008-12-08T13:24:36Z

December 8, 2008, Los Angeles, California - HEIDI KLUM may be one of the most beautiful women in the world, but that doesn't keep her from sharing the spotlight with a canine doppelganger. Cruising around in the passenger seat of one of the world's great grand tourers, the open-top BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC, is a sleek Afgan with buttery, flowing locks and a long, svelte face, beauteous enough to rival that of a Victoria's Secret Angel. So far the dog's got the gorgeous looks, the fawning press, and the impressive car. All she needs now is a rock star husband and she'll be a true supermodel. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Ashley Tisdale drives cute

2008-12-05T13:17:09Z

December 5, 2008, Hollywood, California - In "High School Musical," ASHLEY TISDALE plays the role of Sharpay Evans, a rich, spoiled, self-aborsed teen who manipulates her way to getting everything she wants. But it's great to see that in real life, Ashley keeps it real by eschewing luxury brands and driving a super-cute red MINI COOPER. Despite its diminutive size, the Cooper never fails to impress, with its peppy performance, smart design and fuel-sipping ways. Likewise, we're always amazed when performers can cling onto a seemingly silly and trite trend and make a fortune for themselves; "serious" artists would be green with envy at Miss Tisdale's income for the past few years. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Ben's Pricey Look

2008-12-04T15:50:05Z

December 3, 2008 - A majorly scruffy BEN AFFLECK - one half of Bennifer, act two - was spotted in Santa Monica today with his daughter (and budding ballerina by the looks of it). Though he may be looking a little homeless right now, his appearance can't conceal the fact that his MERCEDES-BENZ S63 AMG costs a staggering $132,000. Los Angeles' traffic is probably not the best place for the Gone Baby Gone writer to test out the 518 horsepower this German piece of engineering puts out, but here's hoping he's giving his kid whiplash off the line every once and awhile. - Alison Lakin

Sarah Silverman goes topless

2008-12-03T13:54:02Z

December 2, 2008, Los Angeles, California - Whether she's cracking scatological jokes or influencing votes with "The Great Schlepp," SARAH SILVERMAN never fails to shock with an innocent mien veiling her wicked humor. Here, she's riding shotgun in a blue VOLVO C70, a sleek coupe that magically opens up to reveal the sun in convertible form. Unlike Miss Silverman, though, this Volvo doesn't hide a naughty side; with soft suspension settings and a leisurely powertrain, it doesn't really coax you to push its performance limits. So you can utilize the C70 for its intended purpose; an ambling, stylish ride along PCH, enjoying the sunset. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Katie in red

2008-12-02T19:03:48Z

December 2, 2008 - On the whole, we'd say most people don't need a vehicle with a third row of seats. KATIE HOLMES is not most people. When she rolls with her crew, she brings along not just hubby Tom Cruise and daughter Suri but equally rich and famous friends too. On this particular occasion she stepped out of the family's CHEVROLET SUBURBAN with the five-strong Beckham clan in tow. The massive 5.3L V8 engine should be enough to move along TomKat, Posh, Becks, and an assortment of little ones. The Suburban can also be powered by E85 - a cleaner burning fuel. And good thing the giant SUV has extras like DVD screens; hearing Tom's laugh would compel anyone to don headphones. --Alison Larkin

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Jerry O'Connell and Rebecca Romijn go hybrid

2008-12-01T14:53:39Z

December 1, 2008, Los Angeles, California - Ah, the vicissitudes of fate. One day you're some bit player in movies and sitcoms, best known for your turn as the whiny fat kid in "Stand By Me" or movies about a kangaroo with a major attitude. The next day you're married to a gorgeous, leggy supermodel. Such is the good life of JERRY O'CONNELL, with his very pregnant wife REBECCA ROMIJN. Perhaps the heavens are rewarding him for driving a TOYOTA PRIUS, with its tiny little carbon footprint, Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) status and 48 city/45 highway mpg rating. Keep it up and perhaps Mr. O'Connell will actually be the leading star in a hit movie. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Joaquin Phoenix is stealthy

2008-11-26T12:39:22Z

November 26, 2008, Hollywood, California - Many people in the City of Angels would give their eyeteeth to be famous. They would debase themselves, sell their souls along with that of their mother, and give up every last shred of humanity or dignity, just to be recognized on the street. So it's somewhat refreshing when a talented, famous celebrity decides to go another route and give up his career. JOAQUIN PHOENIX recently declared that he's tired of acting and wants to retire to lead a normal life. Here, he's pictured with a fairly good costume - an unkempt, pudgy weirdo in a BMW X5. Although Bimmer's SUV is a blast to drive, its blandly good looks and the sheer ubiquity of them in the streets of SoCal will render Mr. Phoenix invisible to all but the sharpest of shooters. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Katherine Heigl gets her Micky D groove on

2008-11-24T12:38:21Z

November 24, 2008, Hollywood, California - Without warning, it strikes. Coiled within the very recesses of one's inner id, it lies it wait for its next victim. No matter how wealthy, famous or powerful you are, you are helpless in its grasp. It is...a Big Mac Attack! KATHERINE HEIGL, in full glamourous regalia for a costume party, stops to assuage her hunger for cheap, low-quality, delicious food at her local McDonald's. But the drive-thru jockeys in Hollywood are used to seeing high-profile celebs in fancy cars, such as this MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS traipsing through. This particular vehicle doesn't have it, but you can equip your full-size Benz with screens inset in the back of the front headrests, so that you can watch "Californication" while inhaling the two all-beef patties special sauce lettuce cheese. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Carlos and Lourdes Leon zip around

2008-11-21T14:38:53Z

November 21, 2008, Los Angeles, California - Father and daughter, CARLOS LEON and LOURDES LEON CICCONE, are famous by proxy; they are respectively the former paramour and daughter of the Material Girl herself, Madonna. Even though you're related to one of the most famous people in the world, it's nice that they can go casual, without losing out on style. After a stint in the gym, they jump in a MINI COOPER, a car that maintains its adorable quality through its retro style and snappy performance. You can equip the Cooper with a variety of engines ranging from 118 to 208 horsepower, and they'll still give you an estimated mpg of high 20s to the low 30s. A great car to give to your Mini Me - seriously, is Lourdes not a spitting image of her mother? - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Brigitte Nielson steps out

2008-11-19T12:22:52Z

November 19, 2008, Hollywood, California -- As one of the original robo-femmes that blurred the line between woman and WWF Smackdown contestants, BRIGITTE NIELSON raised as many eyebrows for her statuesque physique as for her numerous regrettable romantic partners. Still, she's able to capture attention when she's out and about, even when she's dressed in civvies and not in a leather bustier. At least she retain some measure of anonymity - if she is indeed desirous of it - in the silver LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER out of which she steps. It seems a strangely subdued and understated vehicle for such a flamboyant personality, but to each her own. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Lady Liv Loves Saving the Planet

2008-11-18T13:00:48Z

November 18, 2008 - Some actors can be polarizing; you either love 'em or hate 'em. The same can't be said of Lord of the Rings cutie, LIV TYLER. Despite playing an ethereal elf in the epic series, in real life she always comes across as down-to-earth and pretty normal considering her famous upbringing with father, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith. However, her choice of SUV, a BMW X5 xDrive30i (what a mouthful!), is a little more upscale. Liv's chosen the more efficient of its two engines choices, doing her part to save the planet. As the biggest people-hauler BMW offers, its 3.0L engine delivers a solid 260 horsepower and has all-wheel drive too - something more suited for roaming Middle Earth than the streets of Hollywood. - Alison Lakin
Photo Credit: X17 Online

Pierce Brosnan is a bit of a hypocrite

2008-11-17T13:23:42Z

November 17, 2008, Los Angeles, California -- We always think it's funny (in a sad kind of way) when celebrities call attention to environmental issues like climate change, pollution and greenhouse gases, then travel all over God's green earth in a glamorous private jet. PIERCE BROSNAN has previously served as a very vocal and eloquent spokesman for clean living, yet the former Bond actor seems to have developed a taste for high-performance exotic cars like this MASERATI GRANTURISMO. Powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that makes 405 horsepower, this curvaceous Italian beauty may be worthy of an introduction from Q, but its 13 city/19 highway mpg rating seems anything but high-tech. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Eva Longoria goes topless

2008-11-14T13:25:21Z

November 14, 2008, Los Angeles, California - It's always grin-inducing when you see a couple who look so different from each other; whether it's an interfacial relationship (one party is vastly more endowed in the looks department), or when one needs stilts to give the other a kiss on the cheek. Such is the situation between actress EVA LONGORIA PARKER, who is 5-foot-2, and basketball star husband Tony Parker, who's taller by at least a foot. At least they can both enjoy their new BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC. The petite Mrs. Parker can enjoy top-down driving without worrying about the wind buffeting her coiffure, while the tall Mr. Parker can sit in the massive convertible without looking like Geoffrey the Giraffe in the Toys R Us car. - Liz Kim
Photo Credit: X17online.com

Little Miss Sunshine: Please Just Leave Me Here!

2008-11-13T11:28:10Z

The Hoovers: dysfunctional family of the year. But as messed up as they were, we really loved them; and so did the Academy, who delivered an Oscar into the hands of Alan Arkin for his supporting role as Grandpa. In our own car awards, we'd give best in show to their 1973 Volkswagen Transporter (Type 2). The bus had a few challenging issues, namely a broken clutch, disconnected sliding door and a stuck horn, but it became an integral part of bringing the family together. Who doesn't love a happy ending, complete with unrelenting horn honks? -- Alison Lakin

Pete Wentz roves the range

2008-11-12T12:28:55Z

November 12, 2008, Hollywood, California - This just in - current misguided fashion trend, tight, painted on jeans are the cause of thousands of deaths due to deep vein thrombosis and will be forever banned. At least that's the law that we would pass if we were voted in for president. Showing off his shapely gams is Fall Out Boy band member PETE WENTZ, who is better known as the emo-husband of Ashley Simpson, who is better known as Jessica Simpson's little sister. He's stepping out (can you even bend at the knees in those things?) of a black Range Rover, well-known for its go-anywhere competence. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

It's a full family affair!

2008-11-11T20:30:16Z

November 11, 2008 - How many Hiltons does it take to fill a TOYOTA LAND CRUISER? That's the question the family attempted to answer in Hollywood late Saturday night. Nicky Hilton, fashion designer and hotelier in her own right, and sister Paris, who has dabbled in every socialite-preferred venture on earth, shimmied into the $65,000 SUV already packed with six other people after leaving hotspot Les Deux nightclub. Having tech features like the voice-activated navigation system on hand can make avoiding the paparazzi a breeze, but it's most likely wasted on these two publicity fiends. --- Alison Lakin

Photo Credit: X17 Online

A gigantic Nelly mauls a car

2008-11-10T12:21:20Z

November 10, 2008, Las Vegas, Nevada - Rap impresario NELLY celebrates his 34th birthday in Vegas with a gigantic cake in the shape of a FORD FLEX. As the latest crossover offering from Ford, the Flex was introduced at an unfortunate time plaguing the American automotive industry; it's too bad because it's a well-thought out vehicle, and looks cool too, in a hearse kind of way. With third-row seats, you can carry your entourage around while rollin' for some fun. Its 83 cubic feet of storage space with the second and third row seats folded is enough to ferry an oversized ego. And a refrigerated compartment in the back keeps the Dom at the perfect temperature. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Christian Bale is a scold

2008-11-07T11:45:21Z

November 7, 2008, Santa Monica, California - As the Batman, the Dark Knight, CHRISTIAN BALE dispenses justice to a cruel, evil-ridden world. Disguised as Joe Sixpack, driver of the previous-generation BMW M3, Bale steps out to dispense harsh words for the paparazzi who were following too close behind. Having Batman pissed off at you is a situation that no one wants. The E46 BMW is also something to be feared and respected, a car which we consider to be the best Bimmer ever. Producing 333 horsepower from its 3.2-liter inline six engine and nonpareil performance to boot, we're reminded of the joke that asks why most BMW drivers act like jackasses on the road. The answer? It's because they can. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Ashlee waits for baby in style

2008-11-06T20:15:10Z

November 6, 2008 - A celebrity baby always causes a stir in the gossip world, which is why we can't help but keep an eye on a very pregnant ASHLEE SIMPSON. Due to give birth any day now, the pop singer still manages to look cool and collected in her trademark black when stepping out of her LEXUS RX. Her choice of SUV has leather seats and luxurious wood trim - perfect for a swollen, soon-to-be mom. And when the time comes to book it to the hospital, its 270 horsepower will get her there in a heartbeat. That leaves one less thing for daddy, Pete Wentz, to worry about. --Alsion Lakin
Photo Credit: X17 Online

Cindy Crawford pokes fun

2008-11-05T21:52:37Z

November 5, 2008, Brentwood, California - Supermodel for all time CINDY CRAWFORD steps out for Halloween hijinks at Kate Hudson's house with husband Rande Gerber. Disguised as the trainwreck otherwise known as Amy Winehouse, Cindy still manages to gather approving glances from onlookers. This reminds me of the time that we saw a woman dressed up as Cindy Crawford's mole. In any case, the beautiful couple is riding a BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT, a stunning vehicle for a stunning passenger. Although with a bouffant wig the size of Amy Winehouse's rap sheet, Crawford could barely fit into the super luxury coupe with its 37 inches of headroom. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Alyson Hannigan is high on life

2008-11-03T12:19:56Z

November 3, 2008, Los Angeles, California - Amongst other endeavors, ALYSON HANNIGAN is known for that memorable line uttered by the band geek in the 1999 movie "American Pie." (Can you believe it's already been almost a decade since it was released?) So it's fitting that she's walking in front of a silver SUBARU OUTBACK in this picture. With the traction of full-time all-wheel drive, a strengthened suspension and good ground clearance to clamber over rough, rocky roads, the Outback is the perfect vehicle to carry you to that special, rugged spot in the mountains, where, this one time, at band camp...c'mon, you know the rest. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Catherine Bach still turns heads

2008-10-31T12:20:30Z

October 31, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - Around 30 years ago, CATHERINE BACH exploded onto the national lexicon, the fashion world, and the dreams of boys, adolescent and otherwise, with her role as Daisy Duke in "The Dukes of Hazzard." Rednecks in cutoffs have never been the same since. More than three decades hence, Ms. Bach is still a looker in her jeans at age 54. But her current ride of choice is not a Dodge Challenger, but a MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS. We're sure that the S-Class can perform those flying launches all over Hazzard County, but we wonder if the flagship sedan would look as comely with the Confederate flag emblazoned on the roof. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Joe Francis prances a horse

2008-10-29T11:19:12Z

October 29, 2008, Los Angeles, California - JOE FRANCIS built his empire on stupid drunk girls showing off their naughty bits. So it's only logical that his car be a flashy, topless one. Powering this black FERRARI F430 is an exquisite 4.3-liter V8 that's good for 483 horsepower that can propel the vehicle from a standstill to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds. But unlike some of the ladies in Joe's videos, electrical safety systems, such as stability control, antilock brakes and traction control help keep you from experiencing the negative outcome of bad behavior. Come to think of it, maybe Joe needs some of these systems to moderate his behavior as well.
- Liz Kim
Photo Credit: X17online.com

Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens partying

2008-10-28T15:20:52Z

October 28, 2008, Hollywood, California - Life imitates art as sweethearts, on-screen and off, ZAC EFRON and VANESSA HUDGENS leave the Chateau Marmont in Zac's AUDI S8. Powering the high-performance version of Audi's full-sized luxury sedan is a 5.2-liter 450-horsepower V10. It's the same one that powers the Lamborghini Gallardo, and it's robust enough to accelerate the heavy vehicle from zero to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. We also dig the buttery soft suede that covers almost every surface of the cabin, lulling you with its monotone, tactile elegance. It's enough to make the entire gang spontaneously combust into song and dance. Just like real life. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Matthew McConaughey is movin' on up

2008-10-24T12:55:40Z

October 20, 2008, Malibu, California - It looks like the tony enclave of a trailer park known as Paradise Cove in Malibu, where lots go for high six-figures to the low sevens, will be missing one luminary starting next month. MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY is seen here unloading his Airstream trailer; perhaps his peripatetic days as a roving lothario are over now that he's a dad. The heavy duty truck charged with pulling the gigantic tin can is the FORD F250 SUPERDUTY, which makes anywhere from 300 to 362 horsepower, depending on the size of the engine chosen. That's good for towing up to 12,500 pounds of cargo, stuff and life's baggage. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Jennifer Lopez is a cruiser

2008-10-22T12:56:28Z

October 22, 2008, Hollywood, California -- JENNIFER LOPEZ is a super talented singer, dancer, actor and celebrity. But she's known for making somewhat questionable choices in her life. Here, she's seen leaving a Scientology center (hmmm...), to which she was introduced by her friend Tom (hmmm...), in a CHRYSLER PT CRUISER (hmmm....). Introduced in 2000, the PT made a big splash in the automotive world with its retro-cool styling inside and out. It's been eight long years since then, however, the styling world has moved on, and most of the Cruisers we see now have rental car stickers on them. Hardly what we'd expect to see as the ride for a bigwig. Although they both do have very distinctive rear ends. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Tobey Maguire leaves nothing but water

2008-10-21T14:25:31Z

October 24, 2008, Los Angeles, California -- Doing those Prius do-gooders one better, TOBEY MAGUIRE and wife Jennifer take a test drive in the BMW HYDROGEN 7. Based on BMW's flagship sedan, the Hydrogen 7 is motivated by the same 6-liter V-12 found in the 760Li, but it's been retooled to burn liquid hydrogen chilled to minus 423 degrees below zero rather than unleaded. Lest you worry that it would make for a chilly ride, it's carried in a vacuum-insulated tank that's so effective that a block of ice inside would take 13 years to fully melt, while a fill-up of coffee would remain hot enough to drink three months later. Let's see Spiderman do such a neat trick. . - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Nick Cannon shows off the bling

2008-10-17T21:18:01Z

October 17, 2009, Hollywood, California - Getting married to a pop superstar must be a lucrative gig these days. NICK CANNON, otherwise known as Mr. Mariah Carey, is seen piloting a FERRARI 430 SCUDERIA to the ATM to withdraw some benjamins. That's a pretty nice watch, too. Powering this red prancing horse (available for a cool quarter-million) is a resonant 4.3-liter V8 that produces 503 horsepower, good for zero to 60 acceleration times of 3.4 seconds and quarter-mile runs of around 11 seconds at 126 mph. That'll get out of its own way on the freeway. And, like all Ferraris, the 430 Scuderia is instantly recognizable. Unlike some people behind the wheel of one. . - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Katherine Heigl and her gigantic bag

2008-10-17T21:14:11Z

October 14, 2008, Hollywood, California - KATHERINE HEIGL has earned a reputation for having a big mouth. She carries a bag to match while traipsing around Hollywood (with a friend, but without makeup) in a red LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT. Considered the baby brother of the venerable Range Rover, the Sport produces either 300 or 390 horsepower (depending on whether you opt for the HSE or the Supercharged) and, like all Land Rovers, does a phenomenal job of traversing rough terrain. It also has 71 cubic feet of cargo capacity, more than enough to carry all those feet that constantly seems to end up in one's mouth. . - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Keyley Gable is demure

2008-10-17T21:08:51Z

October 16, 2008, Hollywood, California - We all know about the hijinks that can occur when Mr. Famous or Rich or Powerful or all of the above lets Junior run havoc with a last name that once commanded respect. The past eight years, anyone? Continuing in the proud tradition, we introduce KEYLEY GABLE, granddaughter of the legendary Clark Gable. He was once considered the King of Hollywood. At least Miss Gable has good taste in cars; if you can look beyond the train wreck, you can see a MERCEDES-BENZ CLK gleaming with dignity. We think that her daily ritual includes an affirming "I'll do you pround today, Granddad." Don't you?

- Liz Kim
Photo Credit: X17online.com

Sharon Stone gets Bent

2008-10-03T12:31:49Z

October 3, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - We interrupt this newscast to bring you breaking news of a cougar alert in the high country of BH as sultry SHARON STONE prowls the grounds of the Beverly Hills Hotel for some helpless prey. Amongst her arsenal is a BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC, a world-class four-seat convertible that produces 552 horsepower. The cougar can make a quick getaway, with a burst of speed that gets it going from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. And its 9.2 cubic feet of cargo space means that she can carry her victim to her den, to be enjoyed at her leisure. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

I wish I were Don Johnson

2008-10-02T13:20:55Z

The guy is one lucky sonuvagun. First he lands a cherry role as Detective James "Sonny" Crockett on the mega-hit 1984 TV series MIAMI VICE and then, long after pastel tees and shiny sports coats are out of fashion, he gets a gig as the sardonic Inspector Nash Bridges on the 1996 series NASH BRIDGES. In both shows he gets to play with some pretty awesome cars. However, because it's TV, some of them are as real as the security on a sub-prime loan. Like the 1972 FERRARI DAYTONA SPYDER 365 GTS/4 he first drives in Miami Vice--in reality a kit car built on the chassis of a '80 CHEVROLET CORVETTE C3. Word is Ferrari was so appalled by the weekly bastardization of its brand that it donated a pair of genuine '86 TESTAROSSAs to the show. Similarly, the "Bahama" yellow 1971 PLYMOUTH HEMI BARRACUDA convertible on Nash Bridges started car life as a less-desirable 1970 'Cuda convertible and was transformed for the show along with three or four other cars--none of which actually had a Hemi. Either way, ol' Donny boy had a helluva ride.

Hayden Panetierre gets served

2008-10-01T12:30:13Z

October 1, 2008, Hollywood, California - On her hit show, "Heroes," HAYDEN PANETIERRE plays an ordinary girl who suddenly wakes up with new superpowers. Those powers could not get her to her red PORSCHE CAYENNE fast enough to avoid receiving a parking ticket, though. If she were Superman, she could counterrotate the earth to go back in time. But of course, not everyone can be Superman. However, with typical Porsche-like driving dynamics, all-wheel drive traction and power output ranging anywhere from 290 for the base-trim V-6 model to a mighty 500 horsepower for the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo that goes from zero to 60 mph in under 5 seconds, the cheerleader can arrive at the next crisis with time enough to spare. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Do you wanna dance?

2008-09-30T12:40:49Z

Sock hops, soda pops and candy-colored custom cruisers. The early 60s sure were fun. AMERICAN GRAFFITI, the 1973 collaboration of master filmmakers GEORGE LUCAS and FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA is a celebration of that era, showing a night of Southern California teenagers cruising the strip in hot rods while coming of age. Nominated for five Oscars and a huge financial success, the film not only boosted the career of a few Hollywood heavyweights, including its director/producer team, RICHARD DREYFUSS and RON HOWARD, but it also highlighted some iconoclastic American cars, especially a yellow deuce coupe (1932 FORD MODEL B) driven by a character played by PAUL LE MAT and a big-block '55 CHEVY hot rod driven by HARRISON FORD's character. Incidentally, the film's success also paved the way for STAR WARS (1977), set in an era a little different than the '60s, but still a lot of fun. Photo Credit: AMERICAN GRAFFITI, (in black car to right) Harrison Ford, (in yellow car to left) Mackenzie Phillips, Paul Le Mat, 1973

Nicolette Sheridan likes Barney

2008-09-29T15:40:32Z

September 29, 2008, Hollywood, California - No, not the hipper-than-thou emporium. The felt-covered reptile. Only slightly less well-known than the Red Hat Society is the purple hat society. To join, you don't need to reach a certain age group, but you do need to have a misguided sense of style at times. Newly single NICOLETTE SHERIDAN steps out for dinner (or for tea with the Mad Hatter?), celebrating her breakup with crooner (if you can call it that; we thought he always sounded more like a violin that had been abused at the hands of a rambunctious three-year-old) Michael Bolton. At least her taste in vehicles is impeccable; a black LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER will never go out of style. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Sienna Miller ducks and covers

2008-09-26T10:20:54Z

September 26, 2008, Hollywood, California - No matter how many photographs we see of her, we still couldn't pick SIENNA MILLER out of a lineup. But we suppose that we're in the minority, as Miss Miller takes refuge from the paparazzi hordes in a VOLKSWAGEN EOS. The VW is a chameleon convertible/coupe based on the bones of a Rabbit, a lovely, affordable trifle of a vehicle with a fetching interior and a stout driving demeanor. It seems to be an appropriate vehicle for the actress and bon vivant, who often mixes high and low fashion to her best advantage. And hey, her choices in boyfriends are as eclectic as her fashion and car sense. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

It's Dark all over

2008-09-25T12:12:27Z

You probably know JOHNNY DARK as the page on LATE NIGHT WITH DAVID LETTERMAN, a morose, sarcastic and bitter comic who's served as a CBS page for 39 years, which is 37 years longer than is normal or healthy. Don't worry, though, it's just a bit. Anyway, before the comic and way before Letterman, was JOHNNY DARK the movie, a 1954 flick starring TONY CURTIS as moody master auto engineer Johnny Dark who designs a radical new sports car and then pilots it to a first place finish in a Canada-to-Mexico endurance race. It's an early example of America's and Hollywood's love affair with the car and is fairly entertaining, but it's not nearly as funny as Dave. Photo Credit: JOHNNY DARK, Tony Curtis, 1954

Eddie Murphy in a Roller

2008-09-24T11:20:10Z

September 24, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - It must pay big to be the voice of an ass, because EDDIE MURPHY's ride of choice is a $450,000 ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPE. We're not sure of the sagacity of his four wheels. Sure, there's plenty of amenities for any passengers he may want to pick up along Sunset, but it's not exactly the most anonymous of cars should he find himself in a compromising situation that he'd rather keep from the press. On the other hand, if he still wants to play Beverly Hills cop, the Roller's 453-horsepower, 6.7-liter V12 engine would suffice to chase down any bad guys. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Christian Bale chats it up

2008-09-22T10:19:21Z

September 7, 2008, Santa Monica, California - Only in Los Angeles. The Batman and his wife regale the Terminator and his wife. Everyone shares a laugh. Sounds like the beginning of a very dull joke, but it's just the Dark Knight, CHRISTIAN BALE, and his missus, who ran into ARNOLD SCHWARZNEGGER and the first lady of California, MARIA SHRIVER, whose superpower is the ability to invoke the legend of her maternal family name. Here, the whole gang hangs out and leans next to a TOYOTA TACOMA. It's a handy compact pickup, but we didn't really think it would be the ride of choice for a superhero. Or a cyborg. Maybe for one of the minor heroes, like the Wonder Twins. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Jonas Brothers cruisin' big

2008-09-19T10:18:02Z

September 6, 2008, Hollywood, California - As sure as the sun rises, there will always be a boy band du jour looming large in the minds of screaming, prepubescent girls. The current stars happen to be the JONAS BROTHERS, fresh and piping hot out of the Disney dream manufacturing oven. Here, they're seen exiting a FORD EXCURSION, the brachiosaurus of SUVs in more ways than one: it was the most massive SUV that roamed the land a few years back, and it is an extinct relic of the go-go years when oil was cheap and it was cool to be seen in the biggest vehicle available. Those days are past, and Ford stopped manufacturing the Excursion in 2005. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

I want a Volga

2008-09-18T16:10:23Z

Never heard of a Volga? You would've noticed the one MATT DAMON drove in THE BOURNE SUPREMACY (2004). He ripped around Moscow in it while being chased by a hitman driving an AMG MERCEDES-BENZ G-WAGEN. Damon as Jason Bourne, drove with such expertise (even cleaning a gunshot wound with cheap vodka while executing perfect J-turns) that he made the car, dressed as a Muscovite cab, look cool. Under no other circumstances would you ever look at a dun-colored Volga 3110 taxi from the Gorky Auto Plant (GAZ) with such longing. Even a BMW M3 never looked so hot. Photo Credit: THE BOURNE SUPREMACY, Matt Damon (right), 2004, (c) Universal/courtesy Everett Collection

Kevin Federline is rollin' and controllin'

2008-09-17T12:17:09Z

September 6, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - On his way to pick up his sons, Sean Preston and Jayden, from their week with mother BRITNEY SPEARS, KEVIN FEDERLINE cruises around town in a white GMC YUKON. In the passenger seat is his daughter, Kori, who must be wondering about the interesting family dynamics involving her ex-stepmother. Upscale Yukon models hold eight passengers, so the always prolific Mr. Federline can carry all of his current children, plus a few more to boot if he should feel like further propagating the species with his offspring. We can only hope. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Foxy lady, freakish driver

2008-09-16T13:45:17Z

Work in a cubicle? Watch out, your life could change in a tire squeal. In the 2008 film WANTED, disaffected desk jockey Wesley Allan Gibson (JAMES MCAVOY) is picking up his anti-anxiety Rx when adventure finds him and literally snatches him off the street. ANGELINA JOLIE as super assassin Fox puts her cherry red DODGE VIPER into a spin while simultaneously opening the passenger door and collects young Wesley the way a magnet grabs a bottle cap. Though it requires a sublime suspension of disbelief and a total disavowment of physics, it's pretty awesome and a stunt only to be outdone by the purposeful sideways flip over a police roadblock, off a bus and back onto four wheels. Or driving on top of a moving train. Or into a train. And then there's Fox's 75-mph spin while firing large caliber weapons. Always with the large-caliber weapons. Photo Credit: WANTED, Angelina Jolie, 2008. ©Universal/courtesy Everett Collection

Halle Berry is flowy and environmentally friendly

2008-09-15T12:04:13Z

September 1, 2008, Hollywood, California - Sometimes we wonder at the unfairness of it all - Why is physical pulchritude so abundant in one person, and utterly lacking in the vast majority of the teeming masses? One such endowed being is HALLE BERRY, seen here wearing a flowing, long sundress and entering a white LEXUS RX400H HYBRID. It's a vehicle often seen in the company of those who refuse to compromise between better gas mileage, less emissions and pure luxury. When you're Halle Berry, with beauty, talent, fame and wealth enough to spare, why would you bother to settle when you can have it all? . - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Adam Sandler goes hybrid

2008-09-12T12:05:08Z

September 1, 2008, Hollywood, California - It's too cute for words. Adam Sandler takes his young daughter, Madison, for a ride in a CHEVROLET TAHOE HYBRID, wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the image of said daughter and her mom. We're not sure if you can make it out, but Madison is a spitting image of her father. He must have had future generations in mind when he chose the Tahoe Hybrid, which, with 21 city/22 highway mpg, gets 50% better mileage than the original flavored Tahoe. With a growing family, Mr. Sandler needs a big vehicle, and the Tahoe provides room in spades with almost 110 cubic feet that becomes available when the second and third row seats are stowed. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

The Seven-Ups?

2008-09-11T15:57:09Z

You've likely never heard of the movie THE SEVEN-UPS, but it's got some serious car-film chops. It's directed by PHILIP D'ANTONI, who was also producer of THE FRENCH CONNECTION in 1971 and BULLITT in '68! See what I mean--serious car-film chops. Roy Scheider stars as Buddy Manucci, leader of elite NYPD unit, the Seven-Ups, named for busting bad guys and securing sentences of seven years or better. The role has similarities to Scheider's renegade cop "Cloudy" in The French Connection. If it works...D'Antoni even uses the same stuntman, BILL HICKMAN, for the film's fantastic chase scene through the streets of upper Manhattan and onto the city's remote rural parkways. Scheider's character drives a 1973 PONTIAC VENTURA SPRINT COUPE with a 307 cubic-inch V8 and a 3-speed floor shifter. He's chasing the bad guys, who have a top-o-the-line luxe 1973 PONTIAC GRAND VILLE sporting a 455 cu-in V8, a gas-guzzling massive boat that would not survive the Arab Oil Embargo of '73. Pontiac dropped the model in '75. The chase is one of film's best and borrows heavily from D'Antoni's other successes. Highlight's include: the passenger in the baddie's car flinching like a frightened old lady while Scheider's character follows, nearly smiling with the pleasure of the chase; and a sneaky shotgun blast that blows off Scheider's hood and puts him into the grass, but doesn't put him out of the chase. Later, a parked 18-wheeler poses greater challenges, but I don't want to ruin a real treat for you.

Ashley Olsen consumes little

2008-09-10T12:01:09Z

August 31, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - Making your first million at age four can warp your sense of reality. So is having a close, famous friend die at your apartment and having the world wonder about the connection. Fortunately, ASHLEY OLSEN still keeps it real by driving an unassuming TOYOTA PRIUS. With a range of almost 600 miles on a single tank of unleaded in the Prius' 11.9-gallon tank, Ashley can take long, meandering drives around California wondering about the meaning of it all. She can stow those ginormous sunglasses that she's prone to donning in the hatch, which holds 14.4 cubic feet of detritus. And hey, it sips fuel about as much gas as Miss Olsen probably eats. . - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Dirty and crazy, a bad combination

2008-09-09T14:04:44Z

Could you name a movie DIRTY MARY, CRAZY LARRY now? It was fine in 1974 when HENRY FONDA starred as NASCAR wannabe Larry behind the wheel of a "Limelight" yellow (read, florescent yellowy-green) 1969 DODGE CHARGER R/T 440 V8. Larry was crazy indeed, often reckless and ultimately robbing a supermarket to finance the pursuit of his big oval dreams. Larry is, of course, accompanied by Mary, played by Brit "It" girl SUSAN GEORGE (who reportedly once dated Prince Charles and was invited to his wedding to Princess Diana), a one-night stand Larry just can't get rid of. While racing all over Southern California Larry blows the doors off every two-bit V6 police cruiser that tries to catch him and even out-drives a helicopter. Of course, he does, he's crazy. But can he outrun or outwit a train?]]>

Mario Lopez is suave

2008-09-08T11:56:55Z

August 29, 2008, Hollywood, California - We remember those idyllic Saturday mornings with a bowl of Cookie Crisp (dry) and a standing date with Zach and the gang on "Saved by the Bell." We always wondered about the fate of those kids. Except for MARIO LOPEZ. He seems to have acquired a kind of ubiquity, turning up whenever we turn on the tube. Kind of like a darker, more muscle-bound version of Ryan Seacrest. We see that he's in the company of yet another dark-haired beauty. This one is driving a LEXUS SC430, which still manages to look posh and luxurious in its seventh year of production. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Throwdown with a monster truck. No, shark. No, it's a truck.

2008-09-03T13:13:28Z

In all the best horror flicks about cars, you never see the driver. There's something about the unknown...or maybe it's our dread about machines and they mayhem they could wreak if they decided they didn't like us. And our last vision on Earth would be a big, metal grille bearing down, a machine intent on squashing the life from us in a showy display of eye-popping gore. This is how it works in CHRISTINE (1983), THE CAR (1977), and in STEVEN SPIELBERG'S 1971 directorial debut and made-for-TV movie THE DUEL starring DENNIS WEAVER as soft-handed suburban office worker David Mann who while driving home through the California desert in his 1971 PLYMOUTH VALIANT is terrorized by a 1955 PETERBILT 281 tanker truck. Mann just wants to go about his life, but the truck with its unseen driver is relentless. Sounds a lot like Spielberg's monster hit four years later in which he substitutes a giant, razor-mouthed fish for a huge, brainless truck.

What's wrong with this photo?

2008-09-03T11:16:28Z

August 25, 2008, Hollywood, California -- We don't know; it somehow doesn't seem right. There's always a feeling of dissonance when we see a celebrity in a car that just doesn't fit. There's PARIS HILTON and consort-du-jour BENJI MADDEN in a FORD SHELBY MUSTANG GT500KR, the most powerful pony ever produced. Capable of fomenting 540 horsepower, the Mustang is all about muscles and brute strength; it's more of a car to be seen in around Nashville, as opposed to on Sunset. Sure, it's flashy, with its racing stripes and muscular stance, but it's just not very Hollywood. Or Paris. What's next, seeing her carrying shopping bags from Mervyns? - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Carmen Electra goes topless

2008-09-01T10:17:25Z

August 25, 2008, Hollywood, California - The previous-generation MERCEDES-BENZ SL is a two-passenger vehicle that embodies the ideal blend of sport and comfort, luxury and performance. And we prefer its curvaceous lines to the harsher ones of the latest 2009 version. We see that CARMEN ELECTRA is a fan, too, as she was captured driving around Hollywood in her black drop top and flashing a peace sign for the photographers. We especially dig the smooth-as-silk, artfully choreographed hardtop that folds into the trunk of the Benz, creating topless good times in a matter of mere seconds. Which is something that could be said about Miss Electra herself. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Patrick Dempsey likes it turbocharged

2008-08-29T13:50:33Z

August 21, 2008, Hollywood, California -- If you love to drive, you can't help but appreciate Porsches. So it's no wonder that heartthrob, faux doc and car aficionado PATRICK DEMPSEY makes room in his garage for a tricked-out PORSCHE 911 TURBO. Outfitted with a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine capable of producing 480 horsepower, it's good enough for a zero-to-60 acceleration time of under 4 seconds. Lest you fear Porsche's legendary tail-happy wag, be assured that the power is delivered to all four of the Turbo's wheels. They, along with the vehicle's electronic stability control system, do a good job of policing bad behavior. Some may denigrate these innovations as being false to Porsche's heritage, but we like any help we can get to keep the shiny side up and the rubber side down, thank you very much. We just hope that Mr. Dempsey isn't a weenie by getting the Tiptronic. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Gone in 60 Seconds...again

2008-08-28T14:53:05Z

When it comes to movies and cars it seems we just can't get enough, which explains why a quarter century after GONE IN 60 SECONDS debuted in 1974, a remake hit the silver screen in 2000. The modern version differed quite a bit from the original indie flick by H.B. Halicki, including an altered story line and some A-list actors (NICOLAS CAGE, ANGELINA JOLIE and GIOVANNI RIBISI) but it remained faithful in the most important way to car nuts--namely, it featured a lot of hot metal. Both films also share a pretty weak plot. But when you've got eye candy like a 1999 ASTON MARTIN DB7, several Bentleys, Rollers, Lambos and Ferraris, a '71 DeTOMASO PANTERA, a '57 MERCEDES BENZ 300SL/GULLWING and a '69 PLYMOUTH ROAD RUNNER SUPERBIRD who needs a plot anyway? Photo Credit: GONE IN SIXTY SECONDS, Angelina Jolie, Nicolas Cage, 2000

Shakira is all wet

2008-08-27T12:33:18Z

August 16, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - We often find ourselves hypnotized when SHAKIRA shakes her hips. So it's a bit of a mystery why she had to leave a beauty salon in Beverly Hills with her hair dripping - couldn't she have shaken it dry, somewhat like a beloved pooch does when given a bath? We think it's a grand idea for a new music video. Anyhow, she's hopping into the passenger seat of a slate blue MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS, a midsize luxury sedan so ubiquitous in Southern California that it might just outnumber the Toyota Camry. And should the drippy-tressed Shakira get a chill in the brisk coastal breezes of a SoCal August evening, she can always crank up the seat heater feature and get nice and toasty. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Gone in 60 Seconds--Old School

2008-08-26T13:45:55Z

When a film is remade, the original is often forgotten. Lots of car film fans know the 2000 movie GONE IN 60 SECONDS starring NICOLAS CAGE, but have no idea there was an original, independent film with the same title that debuted in 1974. It had no recognizable stars and was the love child of Southern California entrepreneur H.B. Halicki, who wrote, directed and starred (including stunts) in it as daytime insurance investigator and nighttime master car thief Maindrain Pace. The film is remarkable for its 40-minute chase scene in which 93 cars are totaled and for the 1973 FORD MUSTANG MACH 1 fastback coupe code named "Eleanor" that has a starring role. The original flick was so successful, Halicki made two sequels, THE JUNKMAN in 1982 and DEADLINE AUTO THEFT in 1983. Very few people, including car film fans, can recall those films. Photo Credit: GONE IN SIXTY SECONDS, (aka GONE IN 60 SECONDS), 1974

Brad Pitt goes diesel

2008-08-25T12:34:27Z

August 13, 2008, St. Paul de Vence, France - There's proud papa BRAD PITT with his own visiting proud papa, as well as daughter Zahara, scooting around the gorgeous French town in which he bought a chateau magnifique for his brood. We see that they're getting into a MERCEDES-BENZ E320 luxury sedan equipped with the Bluetec engine, which burns diesel fuel cleaner than previous, pollutant-belching diesel engines. It also gets terrific fuel economy numbers, with 23 mpg city/32 mpg highway rating. Drain the 21-gallon tank out on the open road and you've traveled almost 700 miles before requiring a fill up. We would suggest a European road trip, but there's no Benz sold in the US that can fit Brad, Angie and their six kids. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Renee Zellweger returns the favor

2008-08-22T14:55:58Z

August 12, 2008, Hollywood, California - The golden rule says that you should do unto others what you want done unto you. So it follows that the paps tailing RENEE ZELLWEGER got their mugs memorialized when she whipped out her camera phone and popped off a few shots. Not that anyone except local law enforcement officers would be interested in seeing pictures of predatory, self-important, middle-aged photographers getting Cheetos dust on their camera equipment. Miss Zellweger is driving a dark grey BMW 5 SERIES, a fantastic all-around luxury sedan with enough sport to make a speedy getaway as well as enough subtlety to blend into the crowd (in Los Angeles, in any case). - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Yeeeeeeeeeeeeee...Ha

2008-08-21T17:16:09Z

"Dem good ol' boys..." Really, what could be better than life in Hazzard County, Georgia? Get yourself an orange 1969 DODGE CHARGER, slap a rebel flag on the roof, name it the General Lee and race around with your cousin like you can't die nor ever be put away. That's livin'. Of course, it's only TV, but THE DUKES OF HAZZARD (1979 to 1985) sure was fun to watch. There always seemed to be a jump around when Bo (JOHN SCHNEIDER) and Luke (TOM WOPAT) Duke needed it and they needed jumps a lot. They'd fly over, wheels spinnin', the big "01" bright on the car's side, and a dirt cloud like a comet behind them. Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane (JAMES BEST "He Yuk, Yuk") never had a chance. The bumbling Sheriff was even more mismatched against Daisy Duke (CATHERINE BACH) whose eponymous shorts always got the best of the cockeyed copper. Daisy's 1980 JEEP CJ-7, "Dixie", couldn't outrun anything, but with a golden eagle emblazoned on the hood it sure was cool. Yep, it'd be right fine to be a Duke. Photo Credit: DUKES OF HAZZARD, Tom Wopat, John Schneider, Catherine Bach, 1979-85, photo: Robert Phillips / Everett Collection

Prince Albert in a can

2008-08-20T10:21:29Z

August 9, 2008 - When in Rome, do as the Romans do. But when you're a Monegasque royalty attending the 2008 Olympics, be driven around Beijing in a luxury German sedan. So says PRINCE ALBERT, who is chauffeured to the festivities in a black AUDI A8. The nouveau riche Chinese are known to be connoisseurs of European luxury automobiles, despite their nation's burgeoning car industry. Audi reported a 25 percent increase in sales over the previous year there, a number that American carmakers would kill for right about now. We suppose the lure of fine craftsmanship and driving pleasure, such as the A8 offers, transcends cultural boundaries. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Maniac drivers, apply within

2008-08-19T13:42:16Z

He's a Vietnam vet, an ex-cop, a former race car driver and motorcycle racer with a speed (chemical and velocity) addiction. Kowalski (BARRY NEWMAN) has the perfect resume for an auto delivery man, especially if he must deliver a car from Denver to San Francisco in 15 hours, immediately after returning from the same route. That's the plot of the 1971 cult classic VANISHING POINT. Along the way, Kowalski is aided by a biker with a naked woman passenger and by a blind radio DJ named Supersoul with a police scanner. In the end, a beatific, smiling Kowalski runs the white 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T into a couple of bulldozers set up as a road block. The ensuing fireball makes every MOPAR fan who's ever watched the film cry, especially now that a car like that (with a 440 Magnum V8 and a four-speed manual transmission controlled by a Hurst pistol grip shifter) would be worth a fortune, a large fortune, at auction. The plot makes little sense now, but it made perfect sense in the trippy 70s. Photo Credit: VANISHING POINT, THE, 1971, TM and Copyright (c)20th Century Fox Film Corp. All rights reserved.

Jamie Lee Curtis runs on water

2008-08-18T11:20:57Z

August 8, 2008, Los Angeles, California - When she's not busy informing the world of the cure for digestive unpleasantness, JAMIE LEE CURTIS rides on the cutting edge of automotive technology. Here, she's driving a HONDA FCX CLARITY, which eschews old-school sludgy fossil fuels in favor of propulsion via hydrogen fuel cell. And greenhouse gases (not the digestive kind) are a thing of the past, as the Clarity emits only distilled water vapor. The Clarity is not for sale to the public yet - it'll be a couple of months before select consumers can lease one -- and there are only a few hydrogen stations in the great state of California, but of course, those with connections have access to the newest and coolest stuff. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Jennifer Aniston is green

2008-08-15T09:20:16Z

August 5, 2008, Hollywood, California - Sporting a casual yet chic dress, Jennifer Aniston makes the rounds around town matching the greenish hue of her LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER. With a fine blend of luxurious accommodations, a powerful engine, a storied pedigree, and suspension engineering to let drivers clamber over any kind of rough terrain (such as that found on the streets of Los Angeles - what, potholes and broken pavement don't count as off-roading?), the Range Rover seems to be the transport of choice for many of Tinseltown's bright young things. We only wish that Ms. Aniston's taste in men was as finely tuned as her choice in automobiles. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

High speed car chase? I don't recall...

2008-08-14T14:15:44Z

You gotta love that Jason Bourne. He can kick the crap outta' six professional embassy guards, escape 20 more and then meet a beautiful woman (FRANKA POTENTE) with a car and a desperate need for cash. Later, Bourne (MATT DAMON, of course) eludes the police in a chase through Paris driving the lovely lady's beat-up 1989 MINI COOPER. He races down impossibly narrow streets, chatters over cobblestones, and he drives on the sidewalk, scattering pedestrians. He even remembers to turn on the wipers. My favorite is when he drives down a flight of stone steps, bumping down several on the Mini's nose. Too bad that the Parisian motorcycle cops are so persistent. Like white-helmeted stormtroopers, they refuse to be shaken (partly because their BMW K75 BT bikes are much faster and more maneuverable than the Mini Cooper). In the end, of course, Bourne wins. Best of all, though, he's an amnesiac and can just claim he remembers nothing. Photo Credit: BOURNE IDENTITY, Matt Damon, Franka Potente, 2002 (c) Universal, Courtesy Everett Collection

Keanu Reeves goes incognito

2008-08-13T11:35:16Z

August 3, 2008, Los Angeles, California - Sure, a PORSCHE 911 may be considered an exotic car elsewhere in this great country we call our own. In Los Angeles, however, they're a dime a dozen, and amidst the six- to seven-figure Bentleys, Lambos and Bugattis that dot the magnificent landscape, driving a Porsche is like driving a Chevrolet Malibu elsewhere. And when you're sporting a bushy beard like KEANU REEVES in this picture, it's almost guaranteed that you'll be rendered anonymous. Well, except for the sharp-eyed few who are paid to have a camera handy. As Mr. Reeves mutters in the majority of his vast body of work, "Whoa." - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Drivin' to quench the devil's thirst

2008-08-12T15:07:11Z

THUNDER ROAD (1958) is a real car movie. ROBERT MITCHUM stars as Korean War vet Lucas Doolin (what a name!) who returns to his little backwoods home in the Southeast and goes to work running bootleg liquor for his daddy. He drives a 1950 and a 1957 FORD COUPE in the movie, both heavily modified for carrying white lightning and for outrunning the feds and his murderin' rivals. The black-and-white footage of Mitchum roaring down twisty backroads in heavily-treed Appalachia, cigarette in the corner of his mouth and a little forelock of hair sitting just-so on his forehead is classic. Even better are the shots of the old speedo with the needle twitching at 90 mph. How times have changed. I've been passed by a Prius on the FDR while I was doing 90! Doesn't matter, the movie has aged beautifully and anyone with an interest in cars and driving them hard needs to watch it. Photo Credit: THUNDER ROAD, James Mitchum (center), 1958

The Governator and his Challenger

2008-08-11T10:33:47Z

August 2, 2008, Brentwood, California - Does this herald the return of the muscle car? Some may criticize Chrysler for introducing the latest reincarnation of the powerful, gas guzzling DODGE CHALLENGER with 425 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque brewed from the 6.1-liter Hemi engine in the current dour economic environment. We say feh. The market bears the demand. And if California's governor, ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER wants to drive one, then he should have at it. After all, it was he who initiated the ghastly Hummer craze, and perhaps like a certain gopher in February, he is a harbinger of better economic times and lower gas prices ahead. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Jessica Alba is just like us

2008-08-08T11:32:48Z

August 1, 2008, Hollywood, California - Once you're beautiful, rich and famous, you would think that there would be legions of fawning people lining up for the chance to do you favors so that you don't have to dirty your hands with such plebian entities as coins and restrictive parking. JESSICA ALBA, looking spiffy as ever in a cornflower blue sundress, however, accepts no such assumptions, and takes it upon herself to drop a few ducats into a parking meter for her black GMC YUKON. Now that she's a mom, Ms. Alba has to think about roomy vehicles, and the Yukon is one of the behemoths of the road. And, lo and behold, she's driving the hybrid version, which gives her 21 city 22 highway mpg. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

A very, very bad car

2008-08-07T11:04:06Z

It's the horn that gets you. At face value, the plot of the 1977 horror flick THE CAR is kinda stupid--a malevolent, seemingly indestructible, driver-less car terrorizes small southwestern town--but the truck-like air horn that blasts when the car's on a murder spree is downright terrifying. It's like the bleating of a beast from hell. The titular vehicle is a modified 1971 LINCOLN MARK III with a 4.6L V8 (the work was done by famed customizer George Barris) and the aforementioned horn, amber tinted glass and a locked 4.11 differential for better spinning in the dirt. And there's a lot of spinning in the dirt, including when the car hunts a group of women and children hiding in a graveyard. Though we never see a driver, a few scenes are shot from inside the car, suggesting there is a life form behind the wheel, but, what! Evil itself, maybe. The town's lucky, though, because Sheriff Wade Parent (JAMES BROLIN, father of JOSH) is determined to send the car back to from whence it came... Photo Credit: THE CAR, Lincoln Mark III, 1977

John Mayer is manly

2008-08-06T13:40:43Z

July 31, 2008, Brentwood, California -- You wouldn't know it by the treacly ballads that emanate from pop singer JOHN MAYER, but he's a badass. With a new 'do to replace the shaggy mop and some well-defined guns in plain view, we can see how he attracts some of the hotties seen in his company. Further enhancing his image is his Land Rover Defender, an equally badass SUV with a distinguished pedigree of ferrying royalty through the Serengeti and the wilds of Balmoral with equal ease. Stateside, it was sold only from 1993 through 1997, to be doomed by governmental nannies for its terrible emissions levels and general lack of safety features. Spoilsports, we say. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

A car as black as his heart

2008-08-05T13:40:32Z

The matte-black 1973 XB GT FORD FALCON COUPE in the 1979 film MAD MAX is as evil looking as machinery can get. Put a couple of eyeballs on it and it's a Star Wars villain. The car was the vehicle for MEL GIBSON's career, though. Relatively unknown when he starred in the movie as revenge-crazed Mad Max Rockatansky, Gibson certainly made a name for himself post-post-Apocalyptic Australia where the movie is set. The customized Falcon (exclusive Down Under) also made a name for itself, helping to dust off bad guys with roaring ferocity. The car, with a supercharger bulging through its hood, and all sorts of weird angles, vents and holes is the ideal vehicle for the film's frightening future, populated as it is by psychos and sickos. Any other car would just have looked silly, you know? Photo Credit: MAD MAX, Mel Gibson, 1979 © AIP/ Courtesy Everett Collection

Cameron Diaz leads the hybrid bandwagon

2008-08-04T12:12:43Z

July 25, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - Back in the early days of the 21st century, when house prices knew no ceiling and gas was plenty and cheap, Toyota introduced the second generation of the TOYOTA PRIUS, an oddly shaped curiosity that appealed more to techno-geeks and Japan-philes than jetsetters. Still, CAMERON DIAZ was on the vanguard of a new movement to protect the environment from harmful emissions. No one knew that a few years hence, there would be massive waiting lists for the Prius and its ilk. Here, Miss Diaz jumps into her Prius before getting her hair coiffed at a salon in Beverly Hills. We think that being a trendsetter in more than one way is pretty darn attractive. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Marky Mark shows off his young costar

2008-08-01T12:13:43Z

July 23, 2008, Oak Park, California - MARK WAHLBERG is one of those rare stars that doesn't seek out the spotlight in everything he does, which is why it's awesome to see him having fun with his young son. Here, the sunny family is out for some fun in their MERCEDES-BENZ GL550, cruising the suburbs northwest of Los Angeles and dropping in on a family fun center. They opted for the biggest engine in the GL range, a 5.5-liter V8 that produces 382 horsepower, which has no problem scooting out of its own way in traffic. It's nice to see a big celebrity have a somewhat normal lifestyle, even if "normal" includes an $80,000 vehicle. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

See Paris in just 8 minutes

2008-07-31T18:20:37Z

The whole movie's only nine minutes long and you never see the starring car, but the 1976 film, C'ETAIT UN RENDEZVOUS, is an automotive cult classic all the same. Directed by French director CLAUDE LELOUCH (who won an Oscar for his 1966 film Un homme et une femme), the film's title translates to "It was an appointment." It shows a thrilling, early-morning high-speed drive through Paris with absolutely no regard for law nor safety. The sound track is the visceral symphony of a five-speed sports car running through its gears with musical precision. Lelouch was arrested shortly after the film's release but was not charged. Ever since the film's debut, car and film buffs have debated the car used and the speeds attained. Some claimed it was an F1 driver at the wheel of a Le Mans Matra 675 who reached speeds in excess of 130 mph, but others showed the route was only 6.5 miles long and, since it takes the driver just under 8 minutes to complete, his average speed could only be 49 mph. Watch it yourself and you will see that there's some trickery at play. Lelouch reportedly admitted that the car used for filming was a Merecedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9, a monster of a machine for sure, but, with only three gears, incapable of the film's five-speed aural symphony. It was likely dubbed over using Lelouch's Ferrari 275GTB. Either way, the mystery is part of the film's attraction. In the end, when the driver reaches his destination in Montmartre, he gets out and embraces a blond woman. Apparently, he didn't want to keep her waiting. Photo Credit: Google Image

Jessica Alba sends hearts aflutter

2008-07-30T19:35:13Z

July 25, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - We are agog. Six weeks after giving birth to a gorgeous baby girl, JESSICA ALBA looks positively virginal, with the usual pregnancy puffiness nowhere to be found. In its place are her slender waist and trademark hotness. Here, she is seen exiting a CADILLAC ESCALADE, running errands around Beverly Hills to pick up a toy here, a Trader Joe's granola bar there. The 'Slade, with its combination of performance and luxury, is a fine vehicle in which to be rolling around town. Naysayers may scoff at its gas-guzzler status, but starting this fall, you can whip the vehicle around to show off its environment-friendly status when the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid goes on sale. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

They'll never get caught. They're on a mission from God.

2008-07-29T13:55:07Z

If you can learn anything from the 1980 film THE BLUES BROTHERS, it's to remain cool under pressure. The unflappable team of Elwood (DAN ACKROYD) and "Joliet" Jake (JOHN BELUSHI) Blues never miss a beat even when it looks like they're finished. In the film's ultimate car chase (one of the best in moviedom), nothing, not dozens of police cars, neo-Nazis or even gravity, can keep them from their mission to save the orphanage where they grew up. Though the movie's nearly 30 years old now, it's still fun to watch them go 120 mph under Chicago's "L" train line while the cops stage yet another massive, multiple-car pile-up. And, though Jake was not happy that Elwood traded the original Bluesmobile (a Cadillac) for a microphone and their new ride is a former Mt. Prospect Police car, that black and white 1974 DODGE MONACO remains one of the iconoclastic cars of American movies. It's amazing what you can do when "Our Blessed Lady of Acceleration" is on your side. Photo Credit: THE BLUES BROTHERS, Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, poster art, 1980. ©Universal Pictures. Courtesy: Everett Collection

Reese Witherspoon waits just a doggone moment

2008-07-28T11:56:03Z

July 19, 2009, Hollywood, California - Fresh from a shopping spree at the always fashionable Fred Segal store on Melrose, REESE WITHERSPOON maneuvers her French bulldog into a TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID. We just adore the fact that a chic celebrity such as Ms. Witherspoon doesn't feel the need to drive a big giant SUV with a luxury badge. The Highlander Hybrid has more than its fair share of amenities and features, along with impressive green credentials, with its spry 270-horsepower hybrid powerplant getting 27 city/25 highway mpg and a Super-Low Emissions Vehicle designation. That's pretty spiffy for a seven-passenger vehicle, and we think it's lovely that she doesn't have to stop for gas very often while she's out and about with her two gorgeous daughters. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Ryan Phillippe tries to do his part

2008-07-25T10:53:57Z

July 14, 2008, Hollywood, California - RYAN PHILLIPPE makes a pit, gas and iced tea stop at the local gas station. We see that he's discovered the power of H by driving a LEXUS LS600HL HYBRID. While it's not the most fuel-efficient vehicle on the market, with its 20 city/22 highway mpg, it does quench the thirst of a V8 engine, that, when combined with the electric motor, produces 438 horsepower. That's pretty stout competition when you put it up against the fuel-quaffing V12s of comparably equipped Teutonic luxury sedans. And the Lexus gives you all the amenities befitting those who are used to being coddled. No, it won't save the world, but isn't the green movement about everyone doing a little? - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

10-4 Ol' Buddy

2008-07-24T13:55:59Z

Even though the black and gold 1977 PONTIAC TRANS AM that BURT REYNOLDS drives in the classic road movie SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT now seems kind of cheesy, it's hard not to cheer when mustachioed Reynolds as the Bandit eludes the cops with the 6.6-liter V8 roaring. You even get into the "East Bound and Down" banjo-plucking theme song as you watch the Bandit, cowboy hat poking out of the T-top, guide the KENWORTH tractor trailer and its contraband load of beer across the south. For pure cheese, it's a pretty good movie and has really held up pretty well. Incidentally, it was the second-highest grossing film of 1977. The little-known sci-fi flick STAR WARS was first. Photo Credit: SMOKEY AND THE BANDIT II, 1980, (c) Universal/courtesy Everett Collection

Justin and Jessica hop to it

2008-07-23T11:51:38Z

July 11, 2008, Hollywood, California - JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, hottie du jour JESSICA BIEL and an unidentified blond jump into a white JEEP WRANGER RUBICON after a long night of club hopping. We know it's no fun being the third wheel of an "it" couple of the moment; her discomfiture was probably exacerbated by being in the uncomfortable back seat of the Jeep, which isn't the most pleasant vehicle to be riding in to begin with. Still, we suppose that some minor nuisance is worth the residual glow that comes with hanging out with Jussica. Just don't tell her that the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited offers slightly upgraded rear seat accommodations. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

The Devil's Ride

2008-07-22T15:56:39Z

The idea of a car being a possessed killer seems a little far-fetched in the light of day, but in a dark theater with a vintage rock and roll soundtrack, it begins to creep up your spine and make your neck tingle. CHRISTINE (1983) stars a bright red 1958 PLYMOUTH FURY with stone-cold malice running through its lines. The car has an uncanny knack for playing perfectly-fitting but entirely inappropriate music on its radio and for creatively dispatching its victims. Directed by horror master JOHN CARPENTER from author STEVEN KNG's book, the film gives meaning to the term "hell on wheels." Though part of you knows the car is just inanimate metal, you can't help but want its headlights snuffed out forever. Photo Credit: CHRISTINE, Harry Dean Stanton, Keith Gordon, 1983, (c)Columbia Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

Tobey Maguire gets into a tizzy

2008-07-21T10:52:44Z

July 9, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - What seems to be the problem, Spidey? TOBEY MAGUIRE is caught losing his cool at the paparazzi after a nice dinner out with his wife. Leaning out of a VOLVO XC90, he looks uncharacteristically emo; we don't know why, as the Volvo delivers one of the most peaceful rides a crossover utility vehicle can possibly provide. The XC90, like most Volvos, is equipped to furnish a great combination of handling and comfort, and possesses active and passive safety credentials that would rival the security of a mother's womb itself. Perhaps Mr. Maguire should have been chanting "Serenity Now! Serenity Now!" - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Rafael Nadal is the king of the world

2008-07-18T10:03:43Z

July 8, 2008, Majorca, Spain - Rafael Nadal, fresh from his Herculean victory at the famed grass courts of Wimbledon, enjoys his much-earned vacation with a day at the beach in Spain with his girlfriend. He's also reveling in his chariot, a red MERCEDES-BENZ SL550. The two-seat convertible has always been one of our favorites, with its graceful hardtop operation and its handling characteristics that ideally blend performance with luxury. We also prefer the sleeker looks of the current generation SL over the more angular appearance of the new version. Ah, but, as with the young turks that signal a fresh turn at Wimbledon, what is life without change? -- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Ronin: French for Fantastic Car Chase

2008-07-17T14:11:48Z

You can't watch the chase scene in RONIN (1998) without bucking around like you're in the back seat one of the cars. It's impossible to stay still when the Puegeot 406 sedan driven by ROBERT DE NIRO's character, Sam, chases a BMW 535i through the streets and tunnels of Paris. There are more gasping near misses, fiery crashes and burned rubber than Friday rush hour on the Long Island Expressway. It's like the unbelievably long and involved scene was created by a total car nut for others similarly afflicted. Indeed, director JOHN FRANKENHEIMER is a rabid auto enthusiast who insisted on using real cars with no special effects and minimal musical score. The symphony of roaring engines, squealing tires and breaking glass is more than enough. It's one of the greatest car chases in moviedom. Best of all, it's one of many in the film. There's also several fantastic scenes with an Audi S8 powersliding and speeding through the cobbled streets of Paris with enough velocity to make SEAN BEAN's character puke, which he does, noisily. When the big, nitrous-oxide boosted Audi flies through the impossibly narrow streets of Nice you nearly get the urge to hurl just by watching. If you can't ever be in a enormously destructive and dangerous car chase yourself, Ronin provides an amazingly real substitute. Photo credit: RONIN, Jean Reno, 1998, shoot

Beckham single-handedly props up OPEC

2008-07-16T10:03:00Z

July 7, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - For most Americans, $450,000 represents their net worth, including the entirety of their house, car, and soul, should the devil ever ask. $120 is an average weekly grocery bill for a family of four. For someone like DAVID BECKHAM, however, the former figure is the price for the latest British (to be accurate, German, as Rolls is owned by BMW) toy. The latter is the bill for a single fuel-up at this gas station that was selling 91 octane at $5.62. The ROLLS-ROYCE DROPHEAD COUPE is the newest four-seat convertible from the venerable brand, and the 453-horsepower 6.7-liter V12 engine quaffs fuel at a rate of 11/18 mpg from its 21.1-gallon fuel tank. What, he couldn't look up an establishment offering a cheaper price at gasbuddy.com? -- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

The Tucker Topedo

2008-07-15T09:53:09Z

Preston Tucker was an automotive visionary. In the aftermath of WWII he imagined a family sedan packed with safety and engineering innovations, such as a flat 6 boxer engine, padded dash and a third "cyclops" headlight in the middle of the grill that turned to illuminate corners. He hoped the Tucker Torpedo, as it was dubbed, would revolutionize the American car. Instead, Tucker and his futuristic, streamlined sedan met with failure, either by bad luck or dirty politics. Which one is the subject of the 1988 film TUCKER: THE MAN AND HIS DREAM, starring JEFF BRIDGES as the eponymous entrepreneur. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola with George Lucas getting executive producer credits (a decent filmaking team), the movie has that evocative 40s feel with soft colors and can-do attitude. Also, it features one of the most interesting American autos ever conceived. Photo Credit: TUCKER, Jeff Bridges, 1988

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner go Delta

2008-07-14T10:02:15Z

July 6, 2008, Malibu, California - Despite ugly rumors of a breakup, we are gratified to see parents BEN AFFLECK and JENNIFER GARNER put their differences aside and enjoy a family outing with baby daughter Violet. We also nod in hearty approval of Mr. Affleck's ride du jour, an AUDI S8. As part of the stealth performance luxo-sedan trifecta, composed of the MERCEDES-BENZ S63 AMG and BMW ALPINA B7, the S8 looks like an "ordinary" car but can blow the doors off most sports cars. A Lamborghini-derived V10, capable of frothing up 450 horsepower that spins all four wheels, is responsible for the whiplash-inducing acceleration. Groovy. -- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Matthew McConaughey enjoys last days of freedom

2008-07-11T09:24:24Z

July 2, 2008, Malibu, California - Soon-to-be-parents MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY and CAMILLA ALVES run errands at their favorite haunts around Malibu in their LINCOLN AVIATOR. We thought that the days of utilizing an SUV as a family vehicle were over, but at least the toothsome twosome aren't the types to buy the latest and greatest vehicle every year. The Aviator, based on the FORD EXPLORER platform, was sold from 2003-2005, never achieved the popularity of its bigger brother, the NAVIGATOR, which is based on the full-size FORD EXPEDITION. Not big enough for basketball stars and not bling-y enough for rap stars, we nonetheless thought that it was a nicely equipped mid-size SUV. And hey, you hardly see any of them around anymore. --Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Shut up, fool! This van is cool.

2008-07-10T08:56:50Z

If you grew up in the 80s it was impossible not to watch THE A-TEAM, transfixed as the rag-tag quartet of wronged Vietnam vets helped the less fortunate. In every episode, the 1983 GMC G-SERIES (G-15) van owned by master mechanic B.A. Baracus (MR. T) was transformed to suit the team's needs. I can still see B.A.'s acetylene torch sparking as he turned the van into another version of an urban assault vehicle, with Murdock (DWIGHT SCHULTZ) howling insanely in the background. The black van with red rims, matching red stripe, full bush bar and custom rear wing wasn't the show's only cool vehicle, though. In many episodes, the suave and urbane Face (DIRK BENEDICT) drove a white 1984 CHEVROLET CORVETTE that supposedly was rented from a L.A. agency with a red stripe applied for taping. Of course, nothing really mattered until the cigar-chomping Hannibal (GEORGE PEPPARD) grinned and said "I love it when a plan comes together." Photo credit: A-TEAM, George Peppard, Mr. T, 1983-1987

Beckham family outing

2008-07-09T10:24:24Z

July 3, 2008, West Hollywood, California - The night before a long holiday weekend. Mom is exhausted with preparations for the big 4th of July barbeque, so Dad takes the whole clan out for dinner. Maybe - but when you're DAVID and VICTORIA BECKHAM, a family dinner out takes on a whole new scale. For one thing, your destination is one of the newest and hippest restaurants around. For another, the most convenient carriage is not a minivan but a ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM. Sure, it'll set you back a cool 400 Gs when properly equipped, but the what price can be set for rear seat creature comforts like individual picnic tables and a mini-fridge to keep the champagne (or, in this case, the Capri Sun) at the ideal temperature? - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Groovy, baby. Really groovy.

2008-07-08T09:01:02Z

The 1961 JAGUAR E-TYPE is one of the most beautiful vehicles ever made, its graceful lines and taut haunches are reminiscent of a jungle cat preparing to leap. Though the car has appeared in many films and TV shows, the Union Jack-painted E-Type in AUSTIN POWERS: INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY (1997) really made the car famous. Powers (MIKE MYERS) is a hopelessly out-of-date 1960s spy who emerges from cryofreezing to appear in the 1990s and tackily calls the car his "Shaguar," making the car as much an accessory of his fabulous Englishness as an indicator of his swinging status. The car's appearance in the film raised the British automaker's profile in the U.S. and increased sales, too. So, not even Power's tackiness can mar the elegant convertible's position as one of the greatest auto designs ever. Yeah, baby, yeah. Photo Credit: AUSTIN POWERS: INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY, Mike Myers, 1997, (c) New Line/courtesy Everett Collection

Patrick Dempsey, cat prowler?

2008-07-07T08:13:47Z

June 30, 2008, Brentwood, California - McDreamy cruises around town in a McDream-mobile. There's car-aficionado PATRICK DEMPSEY strutting in his classic JAGUAR XK 120, one of the most legendary and gorgeous vehicles ever built. Produced from the late 40s to the early 50s, it embodies the optimism of post-war Britain; when it was introduced in 1948, the sports car, with its top speed of 120 mph (hence the name) was the fastest production car in the world. We prefer to see this valuable antique painted a classic British Racing Green or a soft butter cream rather than this flat battleship gray. Still, it is now, as it was then, a head turner, and, much like its driver, is featured in fantasies worldwide. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Eva Longoria goes to the dogs

2008-07-04T08:13:47Z

June 28, 2008, Hollywood, California - Will lawmakers stop at nothing to alter the whims and habits of celebrities? Not only is gabbing on the cell phone banned while driving in California, so is carrying a pooch on your lap. We don't know if EVA LONGORIA is a scofflaw, but she sure did look cute climbing out of her black BMW 750Li with her pup in tow. Of course, with the much-criticized yet still complex iDrive telematics system of BMW's full-size sedan, which controls everything from stereo to suspension settings, she really doesn't need any more distractions than she already has. Maybe the government does know what it's doing. -- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Party on, Wayne

2008-07-03T09:25:23Z

Ahead of its time, the jellybean-shaped 1975 AMC PACER was a 70s icon. Its futuristic, bulbous shape won some admirers, but mostly it became a symbol of a decade with a lot of wacky design trends. Pacers have appeared in dozens of movies and television shows, but none more famous than in the 1992 film WAYNE'S WORLD, where the baby blue "Mirth-Mobile" Pacer rolled out as the perfect ride for off-kilter dreamer Wayne Campbell (MIKE MYERS). The car's orange flame decals completed the irony--not only was the Pacer never fast (90 horsepower), but it was never cool, either, even with the "SHA WING" license plates. Moviegoers got the joke, though, and two more Pacers, a custom convertible and a stretch limo version, appeared in the 1993 sequel, WAYNE'S WORLD 2. Photo credit: WAYNE'S WORLD 2, Mike Myers, Dana Carvey, 1993

Can anyone give Paris a jump?

2008-07-02T09:17:55Z

June 23, 2008, Hollywood, California - It was just one of those days for PARIS HILTON and boyfriend BENJI MADDEN, whose jaunt about town was interrupted by something that has plagued us lesser mortals; a car that won't start. Guaranteed to ruin anyone's day. Of course, when that car is a $150,000 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT, it seems even more galling. We don't know what the problem was, but it was AAA to the rescue; it was flat-bedded to the nearest Bentley dealer, of which there are thankfully plenty in Los Angeles. We wonder, though, if Paris and Benji had to hop on the nearest public bus to get to their destination. -- Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Colin Farrell bucks the trends

2008-06-30T14:22:01Z

June 20, 2008, Hollywood, California - Ever the iconoclast, COLLIN FARRELL toots around town not in a shiny, fancy new SUV with all kinds of luxurious doodads, but in what is probably a 15-year old FORD BRONCO. Yes, that Bronco, of the OJ jaunt-down-the-freeway notoriety. Aside from its propensity to roll over during evasive maneuvering (no one much cared about things like a high center of gravity or stability control back then), the Bronco was a two-door SUV built with a pure, singularity of purpose that you don't much find in today's SUVs. It was a rough-and-tumble truck that took on most off-road, rocky trails with aplomb. Unlike most of his Hollywood denizens who would complain if a branch marred their newly buffed nails, Mr. Farrell seems the sort that can appreciate the beauty of an unpaved road, and that's kind of cool. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

Seal in that Bentley flavor

2008-06-27T09:12:01Z

June 19, 2008, Los Angeles, California - You're a multi-platinum recording artist. Your wife is a supermodel whose body seems utterly unaffected by a little thing known as pregnancy. And you're cruising around in a $350,000 car on a gorgeous day in sunny Southern California. Yep, life is good for SEAL, shown preening in his brand-new BENTLEY AZURE. Sure, let the other stars and oil moguls drive the new, exclusive ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM DROPHEAD COUPE; its flagrant newness seems a bit, you know, bourgie. The Azure, with its room for four and miles of buttery leather and forest of wood-covered surfaces is the perfect environment from which to enjoy la vie en kissed by a rose. - Liz Kim Photo Credit: X17online.com

KITT? Come in, KITT.

2008-06-26T09:59:14Z

Twenty five years ago, my brother and I sat in front of the television transfixed by the NBC series KNIGHT RIDER. We were especially obsessed by the show's star, the coolest car ever, a technological marvel called Knight Industries Two Thousand, or KITT for short. Back then, we thought DAVID HASSELHOFF was cool as the car's crime-fighting buddy Michael Knight and after he called KITT on his wristwatch (KITT? Come in, KITT), we did it all the time. Later, in our twenties, it became an ironic reminder of how embarrassingly geeky we were about the show. Now, a quarter century later, Knight Rider is revived. A two-hour movie in February received great ratings so the series will resume on NBC this September. There are, of course, changes. The Hoff is no longer the car's crime-fighting buddy. That role is taken by JUSTIN BRUENING, who plays Mike Tracer and will perform all the cool stunts and clever banter with the new KITT (Knight Industries Three Thousand) voiced by VAL KILMER. The car is also changed from a Pontiac Trans Am to a FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500KR with a 540-horsepower 5.4-liter V8 and three modes, including regular hero mode, slammed super-velocity attack mode and remote control mode. Whether or not the new show has a new generation of kids talking to their wristwatches remains to be seen. Photo credit: NBC Studios, Inc.

Adrian Grenier and a car-full of babes

2008-06-25T09:25:29Z

Adrian Grenier and a car-full of babes June 8, 2008, Beverly Hills - In the show "Entourage," ADRIEN GRENIER plays a consummate, unapologetic babe hound. Apparently it's a role that he relishes in real life, as he rolls around Beverly Hills in a classic red 1969 DODGE CORONET convertible with a bevy of beauties. Actually, they were filming a scene for an upcoming movie, but it seems so...appropriate. When equipped with the Hemi V8 engine of the era, the Coronet burned rubber to the tune of 425 horsepower, accelerating not only the car but also the country's rush to the oil crisis and gas shortages of the swinging 70s. You remember those days. The stratospheric gas prices. The long lines at the fuel pumps. The sense of gloom and alarm. And the move toward compact Japanese cars. Sound familiar? And will we ever learn from history? Photo Credit: X17online.com

An Iron Man Needs a Rivetting Ride

2008-06-24T09:09:26Z

We love movies in which cars are stars. The Audi R8 is definitely one of the highlights of this summer's blockbuster IRON MAN, not least because it's so photogenic, what with its sculpted body, contrasting side blades, illuminated window to ogle its rippling V8, and LED running lights like a robot's slitted glare. The 420-horsepower supercar gets so much camera love, you could convincingly argue that it deserves higher billing than TERRENCE HOWARD as Col. James Rhodes and GWYNETH PALTROW as Pepper Potts. What better car, though, than this mid-engine beauty for billionaire arms maker and playboy Tony Stark (ROBERT DOWNEY JR.)? Like Stark, the car personifies modern technological superiority and its looks make sure everyone knows it. Photo credit:IRON MAN, Robert Downey Jr. (left), 2008. (c)Paramount/Courtesy Everett Collection

Jennifer Garner and her key oopsie

2008-06-23T16:19:27Z

June 12, 2008, Brentwood, California - It can happen to the best of us: After running errands, JENNIFER GARNER let her daughter, Violet, hold the keys to the LEXUS RX400H hybrid while buckling her into her car seat. And, as kids will, the toddler started futzing with the button. And promptly locked herself in. Mom was frantically knocking outside to "Push that button again!" without losing her cool. Not an easy feat whilst being photographed in what must have been a frustrating moment. But, all's well that ends well; she was able to get the door open and be on her way. Lexus used to have an OnStar-like service called Lexus Link that could open doors automatically, and other manufacturers, like BMW, have concierge services that can provide similar help. But we think the lesson should be having a fake set of keys to hand to your young ones when they get cranky and demanding. Photo Credit: X17online.com

Arnold in a time warp

2008-06-20T19:45:09Z

May 31, 2008, Brentwood, California - Whose head is that peeping out of that EXCALIBUR? None other than the distinguished CEO of the great state of California, ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER. Making the most of the gorgeous springtime SoCal sunshine, he takes a breather from his mundane gubernatorial duties to go for a ride in this Gatsby-esque replica of elegant vehicles of the days of yore. Originally conceived and built on a STUDEBAKER chassis in the 1960s, the original Excalibur was designed by a private company with a limited run of a few hundred units. Kit cars based on the Excalibur, identified by the post-1973 VW BEETLE taillights as seen on Ah-nold's swanky ride, were popular in the swinging 70s and still manage to turn heads today. And it certainly is refreshing to see the former Mr. Universe driving something other than an SUV. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: Splashnewsagency.com

The DeLorean Effect

2008-06-19T08:43:35Z

With its gull-wing doors and stainless steel exterior, the DELOREAN DMC-12 is one of the most recognizable vehicles around. Its also a Hollywood favorite and has appeared in many films since it was produced in the early 1980s. Most famously, a modified DeLorean was the time machine created by Dr. Emmett Brown (CHRISTOPHER LLOYD) in BACK TO THE FUTURE (1985). Powered by plutonium and equipped with "flux capacitors", the car manipulated the space-time continuum far better than the real thing ever manipulated asphalt. In fact, though the 170-horsepower DeLorean looked sporty, it traveled from 0-60 mp/h in about 10.5 seconds, slower by far than today's Honda Odyssey minivan. Given the DeLorean's all-show-no-go character, it's no wonder the junk bond-dealing, Miami Vice-dressing jerk, Glenn (MATTHEW GLAVE), drives a DeLorean in THE WEDDING SINGER (1998). "Don't puke in the car," Glenn tells a drunk Julia (DREW BARRYMORE). One look at his pastel orange shirt, pushed up blazer sleeves and dark shades at night, and it's tough not to upchuck a little.

Miley Cyrus and her new best friend

2008-06-18T08:45:09Z

June 1, 2008, Hollywood, California - It can be lonely at the top, my friends. When you're MILEY CYRUS, the big moneymaker for Disney and the idol for millions of teenyboppers, it can be difficult to trust those around you. Animals, however, never discriminate whether or not you're having a bad hair day or your new movie bombed at the box office. Little wonder, then, that the pop queen got herself a new parrot. She's taking him home in a LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER SPORT, a leaner, spiffier version of the classic British off-roader. Rated to tow up to 7,700 lbs., Miley can tug all of her new friend's accoutrements - a deserted island to approximate the bird's original home, perhaps. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

"No...No" -- Ferris and the Untouchable Ferrari

2008-06-17T10:42:13Z

The fire-engine red FERRARI 250 GT CALIFORNIA in FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF (1986) isn't just a beautiful car, but a 280-horsepower, V12 salute to youthful recklessness and exuberance. It's impossible not to agree wholeheartedly when the film's star, Ferris Bueller (MATTHEW BRODERICK) convinces his best friend Cameron Frye (ALAN RUCK) to steal it from his father's garage to pick up Ferris' girlfriend, Sloane (MIA SARA). "My father spent more than three years restoring this car," says Cameron. "It's his love. It's his passion." "It's his fault for not locking the garage," replies Ferris. And we all feel the weight of impending adulthood while cringing at the sight of the two Chicago parking attendants ("You fellas have nothing to worry about, I'm a professional.") joyriding in the car, flying through the air to the theme from STAR WARS. Still, it's hard to blame them, either. We all grow up with the characters, though, when Cameron kicks the crap outta the car and it crashes into a ravine. Incidentally, a pristine Ferrari 250 GT California belonging to James Coburn reportedly sold at auction earlier this year for nearly $11 million. Don't worry, though, the car in the movie was a replica. Photo credit: FERRIS BUELLER'S DAY OFF, Mia Sara, Alan Ruck, Matthew Broderick, 1986, (c)Paramount/courtesy Everett Collection

A giant Britney terrorizes citizens of Beverly Hills

2008-06-16T19:28:39Z

June 4, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - BRITNEY SPEARS finally discovers the secret to keeping out of trouble on Los Angeles roads - a toy car and private grounds. Eh, we're joshing. She's playing with her two sons and their ersatz CADILLAC ESCALADE EXT. The real thing is a pickup-SUV thingy based on the 'Slade SUV, just as the CHEVY AVALANCHE is based on the Chevy SUV platform that underpins the full-size truck lineup. The EXT used to be quite popular a couple of years back, but we rarely see them around now - the crowds have grown fatigued, much as with a certain ballyhooed and overexposed pop princess we may know. Hey, put a fez cap on her and she can be the entertainment at the next Shriner's convention. -- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Chris and Ryder Robinson visit Kate Hudson

2008-06-10T18:49:39Z

June 4, 2008, New York City, New York - The hair follicle-gifted duo, Black Crowes frontman CHRIS ROBINSON and son, RYDER, visit ex-wife and mom, KATE HUDSON, at her West Village home. Riding in a black CHEVY TAHOE, they know there's plenty of space for toys, munchies and hair accessories, with a spacious 109 cubic feet available with the second- and third-row seats folded. With the seats in use, the Tahoe can accommodate up to nine band members. And despite its gargantuan proportions, the Tahoe is reasonably nimble and agile, with a slim 39-foot turning radius. Meaning that you only have to execute a 7-point turn to get flipped around on those narrow Manhattan streets, rather than the usual 14. --Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

A Speeding Bullitt in San Francisco

2008-06-10T07:11:01Z

Though the 1968 film BULLITT stars STEVE MCQUEEN as super-cool el lobo solo San Francisco police lieutenant Frank Bullitt, the movie's real star is Bullitt's highland green 1968 FORD MUSTANG GT 390 FASTBACK. The climatic scene in which Bullitt pursues two hit men in a '68 DODGE CHARGER R/T 440 MAGNUM is arguably the greatest car chase in movie history and certainly the one against all chase scenes are measured. Tearing through San Francisco, up and down its hilly streets, flying over bumps, sliding 'round corners, losing hubcaps and scraping metal from their sides, the two cars are like battling superheroes. But its Bullitt's Mustang that prevails, its 6.4-liter 325-horsepower engine roaring as he rips through its four-speed manual transmission, black grille like a beast's snarling mouth. It really is one of the coolest cars in a movie. Ever. No wonder Ford produced modern Ford Mustang "Bullitt" models in 2001 and again in 2008--who wouldn't want one?
Photo credit: BULLITT, Steve McQueen, 1968

Christina Aguilera and the blithe Phantom

2008-06-06T09:03:45Z

May 24, 2008, Hollywood, California

Ever the expert at deftly mixing high and low culture, CHRISTINA AGUILERA, donning a casual zip-up and t-shirt, hops out of a white ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM. On her way to a dinner out, it's no wonder that she looks a little more disheveled than her usual manicured self - she's got a newborn at home, and is most likely relishing a little "me time." The regal Phantom may not strike you as the most kid-friendly vehicle on the road, but its suicide doors really facilitate ingress and egress - great for getting baby out of the car. And the legendary purr of the 453-horsepower 6.7-liter V12 Roller engine should soothe any colicky being. We just hope Christina and Justin Scotchgarded the creamy upholstery to keep spit-up stains at bay.

- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

The Cheese Machine in Napoleon Dynamite

2008-06-05T08:29:48Z

Uncle Rico's Cheez-it-orange 1974 DODGE TRADESMAN camper in NAPOLEON DYNAMITE (2004) is the ideal vehicle for the brilliantly goofy character played by JON GRIES. Longing for the past when he played high school football ("I wish I could go back in time."), dressed in baby blue '70s duds and always trying a new, unsuccessful, get-rich-quick scheme, Rico needed a ride that complemented his cheesy character. The scene in which the van is parked in a wide field, laundry line off its side, and Rico filming himself pathetically passing the football to nobody could actually make you feel sorry for him. Aspiring quarterbacks can likely pick up an identical van for less than $1,000.
Photo credit:NAPOLEON DYNAMITE, Jon Gries, 2004, (c) Fox Searchlight/courtesy Everett Collection

Hillary Duff negotiates the Hills of Beverly

2008-06-03T09:53:45Z

May 26, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - The big blond hair. The high-waisted, bell-bottomed jeans. The gratuitous luxury SUV. Is it a soccer mom from an upscale suburb? No, it's former teen pop star HILLARY DUFF, out and about in Beverly Hills in a MERCEDES-BENZ AMG G55. The G stands for Gelaendewagen, German for "tough terrain vehicle." From its humble 1979 Austrian origins, there have been few structural changes over the past three decades, so it still retains a vestige of cool authenticity. Initially designed for military use to clamber up the sides of the Alps, the G-wagen has also served as the foundation for the Popemobile a pope or two ago. Now it serves as a Benz-badged luxo-ute to tote the wealthy and cosseted around to juice bars.

- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Scrubs: Season 7, Episode 9

2008-06-03T08:30:46Z

It's entirely natural that Janitor in Scrubs should drive a circa 1968 Ford E-Series van. In this scene you get only a glimpse of the dark and creepy cargo area behind the driver's seat, making you wonder what certainly strange and possibly illegal experiments Janitor has conducted in its eerie recesses. The idea of being trapped back there makes me shudder. Then again, the boxy, road-worn navy-colored vehicle is old enough to be nostalgic-looking, which takes all the threat out of it. Instead it's just funny and I could easily get talked into taking it to the drive-through for some burgers and a shake.

Paris Hilton goes topless

2008-06-02T08:04:55Z

May 21, 2008, Beverly Hills, California - PARIS HILTON trots out of a delicious Neptune Blue BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC, on her way - oh, we don't know -- to pick up dry cleaning? Choose patio accessories from Wal-Mart? Whatever day-to-day errands Miss Hilton may have to run, she can get there faster with the Conti's 6.0-liter twin-turbo 12-cylinder engine that churns out 552 horsepower. It's good for motivating the 5,500-lb. convertible from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Not exactly conducive for extracting the best driving behavior from one who has experienced the long arm of the law, but who cares when you're young, rich, and driving a supremely elegant vehicle while bathed in the warm Southern California sun.

Photo: X17online.com

Marcia Cross goes hybrid

2008-05-30T09:02:00Z

May 20, 2008, Hollywood, California -- Desperate Housewives star MARCIA CROSS gets all tangled up in the fuel hose of a gas pump while filling up a silver LEXUS RX 400H. Good thing that Lexus hybrid requires fewer fill ups than your conventional gas-engine SUV. Responsible for producing 268 horsepower, the RX's V6 engine is augmented by electric motor-generators to net a city/highway fuel economy of 24/27 mpg. That's pretty good for a heavy, luxurious SUV that can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, but not as impressive as a slower, smaller vehicle such as a Toyota Prius or Honda Civic Hybrid that'll get you close to 45 mpg. Still, the Lexus was the first to marry the idea of eco-consciousness with luxury, and we can give a green thumbs-up to those with champagne tastes made only from organic grapes.

Photo: X17online.com

Tony and Jessica, treading lightly

2008-05-28T08:13:10Z

May 16, 2008, Hollywood, California - Despite persistent rumors of a breakup, sweethearts JESSICA SIMPSON and TONY ROMO are seen in a black LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER, on their way to Katsuya in Hollywood for dinner. The Range Rover is renowned for its off-road prowess, which one may need to navigate the rocky path of romance. The current generation Rover, developed under the control of BMW when it debuted in 2003, has one of the loveliest interiors of any luxurious sport ute. All the better, then, to create a warm, soothing environment in which to hold those scary "We need to talk" conversations. And should the relationship go south, you can pack a lot into the rear, which holds 74 cubic feet of broken hopes and dreams. -Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

The car is trying to seduce me

2008-05-27T13:41:52Z

Racing across the San Francisco Bay Bridge and through Berkeley and around L.A. the red, 1966 ALFA ROMEO SPIDER 1600 DUETTO in the 1967 film THE GRADUATE plays a huge role. It was the debut year of the Pininfarina-designed Alfa and as a graduation gift for Ben Braddock (DUSTIN HOFFMAN) it was the perfect symbol of freedom, devil-may-care attitude and the delay of inevitable adulthood. The car's even part of Ben's initiation into 1960's free love. When Mrs. Robinson (ANNE BANCROFT) asks Ben to drive her home he offers her the car. "Do you know how to work a foreign shift?" he asks--a scene leading to their eventual affair. Later, as he races to prevent Mrs. Robinson's daughter Elaine (KATHERINE ROSS) from marrying, the car's throaty exhaust echoes in tunnels and his wheels spin in gravel. When the Alfa finally runs out of gas, it's grubby and worn and he must continue on foot. The movie made the car a hit in America, so much so that in 1985 Alfa Romeo produced a special model for the U.S. called The Graduate.

photo courtesy MGM

It's Mini Coopers that steal in the Italian Job

2008-05-27T06:59:51Z

Though the 2003 theft-ring caper THE ITALIAN JOB is entertaining, it's not the presence of stars MARK WAHLBERG, ED NORTON and CHARLIZE THERON that carry the flick, it's the pint-sized fleet of 2003 MINI COOPER S's. While the human characters steal gold, the Minis steal the show. Every scene with the 163-horsepower mighty-mites is terrific, especially the climatic scene in which they descend the stairs into L.A's Metro Rail station on Hollywood Boulevard, race along the platform and then speed through the sewer system while eluding their pursuers. Highly mobile, clever and cute, the Mini driven by Wahlberg's character even manages to out-maneuver a helicopter. A sequel, THE BRAZILIAN JOB, was recently announced for release in 2009. It's a good bet the Minis will be back.

Photo credit: THE ITALIAN JOB, 2003, (c) Paramount/courtesy Everett Collection

Off-Road it like Beckham

2008-05-26T07:23:45Z

May 15, 2008, Hollywood, California -- Soccer maven DAVID BECKHAM cruises Hollywood with his son, Romeo, in his brand-new JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED. The Jeep, proud scion of its rough-and-tumble army lineage, is nonpareil in its ability to climb every mountain and ford every stream. And equipped with what appears to be gigantic aftermarket tires, it looks almost as authentic and rugged parked preciously in front of Kitson on Robertson Blvd. as it does flogging the Rubicon. The Unlimited comes with four doors and an extended wheelbase so the whole passel of mini-Beckhams can squeeze in the rear seat. It's not the most comfortable or poshest ride in town, but that's a part of its appeal. Not that we'd expect to see Vicks riding in it anytime soon. - Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

NICOLE RICHIE Doing Time (at driving school)

2008-05-23T05:03:41Z

May 12, 2008, Venice, California - There's NICOLE RICHIE, attending what must be her bazillionth class for her driving school series. Presumably stemming from the 2006 incident when she was caught under the influence driving on the wrong side of the freeway (we understand that that's a pretty serious offense), Richie seems to be correcting the errors of her ways. She is seen exiting her requisite black CADILLAC ESCALADE, a great choice for the new mom with plenty of room for baby gear. The massive 6.2-liter V8 churns out 403 horsepower so she can make a quick getaway from the paparazzi. And should she pull one of her freeway shenanigans again, she can rest easy knowing that the 'Slade achieved top scores in front-impact crash test ratings. -- Liz Kim

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Magnum P.I.'s Ferrari 308 GTS

2008-05-22T05:56:32Z

Everyone I know became a Ferrari fan from watching MAGNUM P.I. (1980-1988). The car lust begins in the opening credits when TOM SELLECK as Magnum lays a couple righteous strips of dirt and grass while peeling onto the highway, the back end of that fiery red Pininfarina-styled FERRARI 308 GTS whipping around before rocketing ahead on the blacktop. Though that car is now 30 years old, I still want one. The hard-top 308 GTB was introduced in 1975 and the targa-topped GTS featured in the show came along two years later. The aggressive, wedge shape and huge air duct behind the doors is one of Ferrari's most distinctive and recognizable designs. Though just 240 horsepower, its plastic composite body made it extremely light, so it was decently fast. Back then, if you had any hope of ever being as cool as Mags, it had to be a 308.

GOLDIE HAWN gives a supercharged performance

2008-05-21T06:04:39Z

May 11, 2008, Woodland Hills, California - Is this your idea of a grandmother? Looking pretty great for her age (62 this year!), GOLDIE HAWN cruises around town in her previous generation silver MERCEDES-BENZ S-CLASS. We see that she opted for the big, honkin' S55 AMG upgrade, powered by a supercharged V8 with an output of 493 horsepower. With AMG performance and handling, she can corner the hills of Beverly as well as the canyons of Malibu and Topanga with equal aplomb. And with a zero-to-60 acceleration time of just 4.5-seconds, we can just imagine grandson Ryder (daughter Kate Hudson's little boy) exclaiming, "Cool, Grandma!"

Photo Credit: X17online.com

Aston Martin DB5 stars with Bond in Goldfinger

2008-05-20T05:00:00Z

By today's standards, the 4.0-liter 282-horsepower 1963 ASTON MARTIN DB5 that James Bond drives in GOLDFINGER (1964) is underpowered, the wheels are a bit small and what's with a five-speed manual? There are Honda's now with more impressive specs. But watching a young, buff SEAN CONNERY as Bond behind the wheel could make a life-long Aston Martin fan out of my granny. Dressed in black, he is the epitome of everything suave and debonair as he coolly dispatches his pursuers with the gadgetry retrofitted by Q, including tailpipe smoke screens, oil slicks, machine guns and a passenger ejector seat. And that's not even all of it. You get a sense of the car's incredible handling when he expertly maneuvers it through the bad guy's complex. Originally, the car cost less than 10 grand, but one sold at auction in 2006 for more than $2,000,000. Cool is always in style.

photo courtesy of Corbis

Jamie Lynn Spears and her Range Rover

2008-05-12T17:55:10Z

May 10, 2008, McComb, Mississippi - Whatever happened to chivalry? Pregnant JAMIE LYNN SPEARS tops off the tank of her white LAND ROVER RANGE ROVER while attending yet another baby shower for her pending arrival in Mississippi. Conventional wisdom states that preggies should avoid filling the gas tank to avoid fumes, but we suppose the photographers were too busy doing their job to help out a lady. And with fuel economy of 12 city/18 highway for the 305-horsepower V8, she needs to stop for gas early and often. Range Rovers, with their superior boulder-bashing capabilities, are still the ride de rigueur for the Hollywood set, whose exposure to off-roading is limited to a gravel-lined driveway. But one wonders if the British mystique may wear off once the Land Rover marque becomes a possession of Indian-owned Tata Motors. - Liz Kim

photo courtesy x17online.com

Angelina and Brad at McDonald's in France

2008-05-12T17:52:07Z

May 11, 2008, Cannes, France -- Why, they're just like us! Indulging a McCraving, ANGELINA JOLIE and boyfriend BRAD PITT make a fast food stop at Le McDonald's, riding along with an acquaintance in a MERCEDES-BENZ VITO SPORT-X van in Cannes, France. Perhaps the twin girls kicking inside of Angie were sick of the overpriced lukewarm Orangina and salad nicoise ubiquitously served at the seaside city. The European-market only passenger van is moved by a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine that makes 204bhp, and can accelerate from zero to 60mph in just 8.3 seconds, with a maximum cruising speed of 122mph. Mercedes should think about bringing the van stateside - it might make for a groovy new Mystery Machine for some meddling crime solvers. - Liz Kim

photo courtesy x17online.com