Welcome to Must Read, where we single out the best stories from around the automotive universe and beyond. Today we have reports from Motoramic, Washington Time, and Curbside Classic.
Why Hyundai didn't win.
In an industry that fights for every last sale, claiming the title for being the most fuel-efficient automaker in the country has traditionally been a huge win. Even in times like these when gas prices have eased, shoppers often compare mileages as much as horsepower, and when gas prices soar — as they inevitably will — having that message at the ready gets more tire-kickers into dealerships.
Wait. What?
Pennsylvania police this week were pulling people to the side of the road, quizzing them on their driving habits, and asking if they'd like to provide a cheek swap or a blood sample — the latest in a federally contracted operation that's touted as making roads safer.
Who doesn't like Sevilles?
The story of the Seville has five chapters, and unfortunately most of them are rather sad. By far the most depressing one is Chapter Three, which covers the years 1986-1991, the Seville's nadir. By the metrics of sales, the 1986 Seville and its E-K Body stablemate Eldorado are rightfully Cadillac's Deadliest Sin ever, their combined sales plummeting a deadly 70% from 1985. But there are other metrics to consider too, including the ownership experience. Unlike the other GM Deadly Sins I've written about, I have something to add on that account. But it's not exactly cheerful either.
The EPA Won't Tell You Which 2013 Models Were The Most Efficient