Chrysler LLC has been battered by high fuel prices this year, seeing sales plunge by 25% compared to 2007. This drop off isn’t unique to Chrysler as the entire automotive industry is suffering, but for a company who relies on the North American marketplace for about 90% of its business, the downturn has been especially difficult to swallow.

Despite the ongoing bad news, Chrysler says that they have a number of cars in the pipeline that will help the automaker update its fleet and regain its position once the economy rebounds as expected by early 2010. Leading the way is its two largest cars – the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger – vehicles that will play an important role in Chrysler’s long term success.

Though the market for big cars is way down, Chrysler expects that it will soon recover, perhaps just in time as it rolls out the next generation of the 300 and Charger in 2010. At first glance, not a whole lot will be different about the cars as the automaker is loathe to tamper styling success. Instead, vast improvements to interior quality, improved suspension, and a more economical powertrain combination will set these cars apart.

Chrysler won’t be relying on just two cars to fuel its rebound, planning as many as nine new or improved models to make their debut before the end of 2010. In addition to the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, other models expected include:

A compact car built by Nissan for Chrysler. Reportedly, the Dodge Hornet concept – a Scion-like vehicle – will appear in early 2010, built by Nissan at its Mexican plant. Electric cars – one, two, three. Recently, Chrysler showed off three pre-production electric models, two of which are based on existing platforms: the Jeep Wrangler and the Dodge Caravan. The third model – a Dodge sports car – is a collaboration with Lotus and is likely to be the first of the three to make it to production. Similar to the Tesla Roadster, the Dodge EV will have an all-electric range of 150 to 200 miles and undercut the Roadster’s $98,000 price tag. Hybrid cars – Chrysler was late to the hybrid game, having just recently launched hybrid versions of its large SUVs, the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango. But, Chrysler plans to aggressively catch up and should have a hybridized version of its popular Dodge Ram pickup truck ready by 2010. Other hybrid models are being explored including for their popular minivans. Nissan again – If you don’t see a pattern yet, you soon will. Chrysler is once again tapping Nissan to build a car for it, this time a midsize model at one of Nissan’s Tennessee plants. This hook up will allow Chrysler to save money on product planning while allowing Nissan to maximize plant capacity.

Beyond 2010, Chrysler’s fortunes may rely on additional business partnerships, perhaps signaling that the company will become the third leg on the Renault-Nissan stool. Long term, the automaker will need to rely on outside partnerships to ensure its success, a move that can be achieved by expanding current business relationships.

As with any sports car, Ford Mustangs are often driven hard. With abuse comes the need for maintenance. If proper maintenance is not followed, your new ponycar will likely become a money pit. Fear not, tips for finding potential problems are just a couple paragraphs away.

Another cause for concern is the installation of aftermarket parts. Many Mustang owners install performance parts, often times performed by owners inexperienced in the field of automotive repair. These aftermarket parts may not only be hard on other vehicle parts, but they may also void the factory warranty.

Before purchasing your Mustang, be certain to inspect the vehicle thoroughly – especially the drivetrain. If you’re not qualified to properly diagnose engine, transmission, rearend, or other potential problems you should take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic. You don’t want to have a wore out rear end, it’s no fun especially when your friends find out.

Some of the common symptoms of an abused Mustang include rattles and squeeks in the suspension, grinding gears in a 5 speed, and a noisy engine or drivetrain. Be certain to check for tire tread, especially the rear tires. Mustang owners like to do hellacious burnouts with no respect to the tire manufacturers hard work.

Good luck with your Mustang purchase. These ponycars can be fast and reliable with proper care. Be certain you’re getting the value and performance per dollar you expect and make an educated buying decision.