Mark Maynard has been the automotive editor of the San Diego Union-Tribune newspaper since 1992. His work puts him behind the wheel of nearly 200 vehicles a year for review and competitive comparison.

Attending manufacturer's new-vehicle press conferences keeps him abreast of the hottest new vehicles and technological advancements. He has graduated from several performance and off-highway driving courses and has spent seat time with influential car designers, engineers and race drivers.

He also has a twice-monthly Internet Web cast, "Wheels on the Web," that can be viewed at www.uniontrib.com. He has been a regular guest host on a local automotive radio show and has appeared on television for automotive issues. He owns a 1987 Chevy Suburban 4WD and a 1968 VW bus.