Q. You mentioned that the Hyundai Azera (April 14, AutoTimes) is a mid-size car. It's a full-size car, like the Toyota Avalon. The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size car. I own an Azera. --B.S., Chicago area

A. "Who's on first?" The only Hyundai large car is its new Genesis (Aug. 16 AutoTimes), which has a 115.6-inch wheelbase. The Avalon also is a large auto, although it has the shortest wheelbase of all full-size cars at 111 inches. The Azera is a mid-size car, with its 109.4-inch wheelbase, as is the Sonata with its 107.4-inch wheelbase, although that's not to say they aren't roomy. It's becoming increasingly difficult to determine car sizes because automakers are making interior space improvements. Get a publication such as Consumer Guide to check generally accepted car sizes.

Q. I bought a 2006 Saab 9-7X with a 5.3-liter V-8 that has a fuel-saving cylinder deactivation feature. I was told repeatedly by the car's salesman that the fuel economy estimates (15 mpg city/20 highway) are not applicable to this car because the cylinder deactivation was not considered in the rating. The salesman said I would get 22-27 mpg because of this feature. Did that guy know what he's talking about? --J.M., Chicago area

A. That Saab is basically a Chevrolet TrailBlazer SUV with Saab design changes. The EPA, using its old fuel economy rating system, rated the vehicle at 15 city, 20 highway. It has since changed to a more realistic rating system and says the 9-7X with that engine delivers 13 mpg city and 19 highway The EPA includes significant factors when providing estimated figures, but I can't imagine a 9-7x delivering as high as 27 mpg, unless it's coasting downhill. Driving techniques and conditions vary wildly, which is why the EPA says its figures are just estimates to provide approximate economy comparisons. My guess is that the salesman doesn't know any better or is giving a sales pitch that works with some customers.

Q. Is there any outfit that allows a person outside the media to drive exotic sports cars? I can only dream about them. --M.K., West Chicago

A. You can make your dream come true. Auto entertainment company World Class Driving, in an attempt to increase sales of exotic cars in a credit-tight economy, is partnering with the West Baden Springs Hotel & French Lick Resort in French Lick, Ind., near Indianapolis, to give folks a chance to drive exotics from automakers such as Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Aston Martin and Bentley. The event begins Sept. 3 and continues through Sept. 7. There are four differently priced packages available at this "World Class Driving Festival," ranging from a single day's driving to a stay at the West Baden Springs Hotel. The package price range is $895 to $2,795. If you can't make it to Indiana, a "World Class Driving Tour" event featuring six exotic cars is scheduled for Sept. 15 and 16 at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate in Joliet. For further information on all events call 877-597-6403.

Q. I'm renting a car over the Labor Day weekend and wonder about insuring a rental car. Any pitfalls? --W.E., Peoria

A. First, determine how much coverage you have on your own car by calling your insurance agent and the credit card company you might use to pay for the rental car. In most cases, whatever coverage and deductibles you have on your own car would apply when you rent a car if it's used for recreation and not business. Credit cards usually cover just damage to or loss of the rented vehicle, not for other cars or property of others. Finally, many car rental outfits impose various fees after an accident that you might not be aware of and will be held responsible for. They can include towing, storage, impound fees, loss of use, diminished value and administrative services, says Insurance Information Institute spokesperson Jeanne Salatore.

Q. I'm looking for a used "back-to-school" car for my college-age daughter. Suggestions? --E.H., Evanston

A. Kelley Blue Book, a provider of new and used vehicle information, suggests these 10 used under-$12,000 back-to-school autos, with their Kelley Blue Book retail values. In alphabetical order, they are: 2008 Chevrolet Aveo ($11,800); 2007 Dodge Caliber ($11,745); 2005 Ford Crown Victoria ($11,365); 2004 Ford Focus ($11,550); 2004 Honda Civic ($11,765); 2006 Hyundai Elantra ($11,650); 2004 Mazda Tribute ($11,210); 2004 Mazda3 ($11,700); 2004 Nissan Altima ($11,845), and 2004 Pontiac Vibe ($11,495). Jack Nerad, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book, said, "Vehicles are better built and equipped than ever before and there are a variety of body-style options available to satisfy teen needs."

Car question? Send it to Dan Jedlicka, Chicago Sun-Times, 350 N. Orleans, Chicago, IL 60654, or e-mail djedlicka@suntimes.com. Include name, hometown and a self-addressed, stamped envelope to ensure a personal reply.