A recent article in Motor Trend points to the possibility of adding a diesel V8 option to the CTS lineup.

As long as Cadillac uses the raised hood of the CTS-V, they can squeeze GM's 4.5L Duramax V8 into the engine bay. The engine produces 310-hp and 520 lb-ft of torque, but could get a special CTS-tune for sporty driving.

The diesel model would slot in between the 304-hp base model and the 556-hp CTS-V. Performance would be on par with the base gasoline engine, but it would return 20-25% better fuel economy. This would help GM meet the mandated 35 mpg CAFE regulations by 2020.

This could be a good move for Cadillac as it appears that Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz already have released or are working on diesel models.

On the heels of hearing that GM will be closing their Moraine, Ohio plant, word is now out that they will be closing their Janesville, Wisonsin plant.

GM had originally announced it would close down the Janesville plant before 2010 ... insiders now say that the plant will close in December 2008. The plant makes the GMC Yukon alongside the Chevy Tahoe, and the Chevy Suburban.

GM will also be closing a 2-million square foot metal stamping plant near Grand Rapids, Michigan in a effort to cut costs.

General Motors has finally released the pricing structure for all trim levels of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro. You can officially place your order today ... production starts at GM's Oshawa, Ontario plant in mid-February. The first nodels should ship in late February.

Starting with the base LS model, this comes with a 3.6L V6 making 300-hp and will cost $22,995 with a 6-speed manual. The 6-speed automatic version costs $23,990. Upgrading the the 1LT package gives you the same engine but with fog lamps ... it also allows you to order more options and packages. Manuals cost $24,630, automatics cost $25,625. The 2LT package gives you an upgraded stereo system featuring Bluetooth and a USB port Other 2LT features include heated leather seats and a electrochromatic rearview mirror. Expect to spend $27,330 with a stick shift, $28,325 with a slushbox.

Going for the SS model will get you a 6.2L V8. The automatic equipped models produce 400-hp and 395 lb-ft of torque. Opt for a manual and you get more power, 422-hp and 408 lb-ft of torque. Feature levels are similar to the LT trim level. 1SS gets you some stuff for $30,995, 2SS gets you more stuff for $34,180.

Micheline Maynard, writing for the New York Times, reports that Toyota is seriously considering making the Prius a separate brand to Toyota all together.

The Prius brand, if approved, would be sold in Toyota dealerships. In addition to the current Prius, Toyota would also work on a smaller, perhaps Yaris-sized Prius, and a larger "Prius on steroids". A crossover Prius is not out of the question.

The idea is the brainchild of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A.  president James E. Lentz III. He is currently lobbying the head office in Japan and the ultimate decision will be made by them.