DODGE CHALLENGER R/T

To prove our point, we've chosen to start with a 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T. Why a Challenger? Well, it's an inexpensive full-size, rear-drive V8 muscle car, something Detroit car companies know how to build better than anybody in the world. It's also beautifully reminiscent of the classic 1970 Challenger, clean and enticing to a wide cross-section of American drivers.

This month, we're improving the already impressive performance of our Challenger, using a variety of inexpensive parts and some clever ideas we've learned at the racetrack. Our goal is a world-class muscle car that out-runs, out-stops and out-corners superexotics that cost ten times as much. That's the "Muscle" half of our project.

Next month, we'll add the "Eco." With inexpensive aerodynamic aids, a state-of-the-art electric drive system and some other helpful bits, we'll turn our potent Challenger into a parallel hybrid plug-in/solar/electric that burns no fuel at all in everyday driving. We think this is a spectacular way to please both environmentalists and enthusiasts. Eco+Muscle. What's not to like?

You'll be able to examine the Eco+Muscle Challenger in our display at the NASCAR Pocono 500 race in June, at the San Bernardino Route 66 Rendezvous in September and at the Las Vegas SEMA Show in November. Next January, we'll auction it off in Scottsdale. Here's your chance to own one of the most innovative vehicles ever built. Eco+Muscle!

2009 Ford Focus

A low base-price, quiet demeanor, solid structure, respectable power, a roomy interior, and the voice-activated SYNC infotainment system makes the Focus worth a look. For those who look for sportiness in their small cars, however, the soft chassis will leave you wanting.

2009 Volkswagen Rabbit

The Rabbit replaced the Golf in 2007, thus reviving the name it wore when it made its debut back in the mid-'70s. Essentially a hatchback version of the Jetta sedan, it's solid, roomy, versatile, and responsive. Power is modest from the 170-hp five-cylinder engine, but it's still a driver's car

2009 Honda Fit

Redesigned from road to roof, the '09 Fit offers more space for five people and their stuff and more oomph from its 1.5-liter four, all in a more aggressively styled package. There are also plenty of safety items, a choice of five-speed transmissions, and paddle shifters on the auto Sport models.

2009 Chevrolet Cobalt

The Cobalt family is a serious presence in the compact-sedan segment, although the interior could be a bit nicer. With solid chassis, respectable powertrains, and attractive pricing, the basic Cobalt lineup covers three models: LS, LT, and high-performance SS.

2010 Mazda Mazda 3

Mazda's bestseller gets all new sheetmetal for 2010, upgraded interior trim, and more power. Dimensions stay static, as does the athletic suspension, but power in the available 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines rises. Option choices also expand. One of the most fun small cars out there.

Question: Is it true that you can unlock a car door over a cell phone?

Answer: No.
Okay, before you think I’m an idiot for doing this piece, check out this video. Convincing, no? Search the Web and you’ll find a lot of posts from people swearing that this works. And believe it or not, I had an “OMG! moment” when I thought it might work, too.
To begin, I backed the trusty Sequoia down to the curb, just like in the last Everyday Tech Myths test of the “chin boost” effect on car alarm remotes. Chirp-chirp. A push of the button confirms that the alarm and remote both work fine.