Despite the fact the Swedish carmaker is currently under Swedish bankruptcy protection, the Saab 9-5 is on schedule to be sold by early summer.
The big saloon is being finalised for production after an anticipated debut at the Frankfurt show this September.
The new 9-5 is based on the same GM Epsilon II chassis as the Vauxhall Insignia, although the styling inside and out is unique.
The new 9-5 will have a range of ‘downsized’ turbocharged petrol engines as well as the option of a turbocharged V6 engine and the company’s innovative ‘torque vectoring’ all-wheel drive system.
The car scooped here shows it has more than a hint of Saab’s classic upright windscreen pillars as well the ‘hockey stick’ shape around rear window line.
The side-on pictures also show that new car has a very steeply raked rear window and extended boot lid. An estate version is scheduled to appear next year.
Also visible in these pictures are a car’s headlamps and the new Saab corporate ‘horseshoe’ grille.
Although Fiat’s bid for the whole of General Motor’s European arm (including Saab) has only just got underway, Saab could itself be sold to a new buyer by early summer. Reports suggest that the bidding process is down to just two interested parties.

We’ve just driven the third and final coupe variant of the Maserati GranTurismo – but it’s not the end of the line yet! These close-up spies confirm that a convertible version is almost open for business. And judging by the heavy camouflage at the rear, a fabric-roof has been shunned in favour of a folding hard-top, much like its cross-town cousin, the Ferrari California.A 2+2 seating configuration will be carried over from the fixed roof version, although space will inevitably be tighter in the back, to make room for storing the roof. Surprising amounts of rear legroom is one of the Coupe’s strengths though, so expect the Spyder to still be a genuine four-seater. The engine line-up will mimic the Coupe – that means a choice of 4.2-litre or 4.7-litre V8's producing 405bhp and 433bhp respectively, hooked up to either the six-speed ZF automatic or a faster-shifting robotised manual gearbox.Prices for the Coupe range from £78,215 to £88,005, so anticipating a modest increase the Spyder will start from around £90,000. We’ll get our chance to see the finished product in the flesh at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. For more details click here.

Hot off the Internet are these images of the next Opel Astra. This next iteration, which is set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, is an important player in the subcompact field as Opel's future remains in question.

We expect more details shortly, but what we know for now is that the Astra shares its Delta II small car front-drive platform with the Chevrolet Cruze and Volt, among others. This means when it goes on sale the Astra is expected to offer a base 1.4L gas engine, with 1.4L and 1.6L turbocharged gasoline engines reportedly available as options. Diesel options will likely include 1.3L, 1.7L, and 2.0L mills, and a higher mileage ecoFlex is also expected to become available sometime after launch. Per Opel, the Astra is 174.0-in. long (7.0-in. shorter than the Cruze), and it receives bi-xenon headlights and the Opel Eye camera system. Visually (thankfully, too), the 2010 Astra retains the design language of the Opel Insignia.

Now, the imported version under Saturn's moniker didn't set showrooms ablaze with sales and there's no call yet on whether the new model will make it stateside either. In any event, we've scrounged up some video of the new Astra in motion; click here to visit our YouTube channel to view it.

Here's proof that the launch of the hottest Scirocco ever is edging ever closer! This is one of last Scirocco R development prototypes, spied here undergoing testing at a gloomy and wet Nurburgring circuit in Germany. The Golf-based coupe will feature a storming 262bhp version of the 2.0 TFSI engine already available in 197bhp form. That means a 0-60mph sprint in around six seconds and a 155mph top speed. The same engine will power a Golf R20 model too.
In addition, the R will get a bodykit, with lower front and rear bumpers and more sculpted side skirts, as well as larger 19-inch wheels. It's inspired by the Studie R concept which was first revealed at the Bologna Motor Show last year. Prices should start from around £25,000 when it goes on sale later this year. For more details click here.

The saga continues! We saw Lexus’ first ever supercar way back at the Detroit show in 2005, but these spy shots prove that while it’s been a long time coming, a production version is still on the cards. Spied testing at the Nurburgring, the Japanese rocket is seen here in showroom-spec, with only light camouflage at the front and rear. A self-raising spoiler which deploys automatically at high-speeds, a triangular exhaust arrangement and distinctive air intake behind the B-pillar can all be seen clearly and will be distinguish the LF-A when it goes on sale next year.As part of the car’s intensive testing regime, Lexus has confirmed that two race cars, with only light-modifications compared to the road-going version shown here, will compete in the Nurburgring 24hr race on May 23 this year. The racers will use a 5.0-litre V10 tuned to produce around 500bhp, but the exact specification of the road-legal car is yet to be confirmed. For more details click here.

The onslaught of new models from Aston continues! The DBS Volante, V12 Vantage and One-77 hypercar are all close to going on sale – and now our team of spies has caught a fourth newcomer undergoing final durability tests.Just like the V8 Vantage Roadster on which it’s based – the V12 Roadster will use a traditional fabric roof and feature many of the key design cues from it’s fixed-roof stablemate. Vents in the bonnet to help cool the 6.0-litre V12, a new carbon front-splitter and deeper side sills are the big giveaways of this car’s potential, but more subtle cues such as wider tyres, larger exhausts and carbon-ceramic brake discs are part of the uprated package too. And with 510bhp and 570Nm torque, expect a 0-60mph time in the region of 4.4 seconds and a top speed of over 185mph. We’ll get our chance to see the new 12-cylinder drop-top at the Frankfurt show in September. For more details click here.

Red-hot and raring to go! This is the first undisguised shot of the Vauxhall Insignia VXR Sports Tourer – a high-performance version of the Insignia estate. Our spies have already caught an early mule in testing, but this is the first time production-ready car, complete with a griffin badge on the bonnet and the chrome-rimmed nostrils lifted from the VXR saloon, has been spotted out in the open.Shoehorned under the bonnet is a 2.8-litre turbocharged V6 producing a stonking 321bhp. And for the first time in a car wearing the VXR nameplate – power will be juggled between all four tyres for maximum traction and stability on the move. Expect a 0-60mph sprint in under six seconds and an electronically-limited top-speed of 155mph.Due to go on sale alongside the saloon variant before the end of the year, the Insignia VXR Sports Tourer will be a performance bargain – starting from around £27,000. For more details click here.

 

 

Jaguar has stripped off the heavy cladding that has disguised its new XJ for the final testing of the car ahead of its launch in July.
The new car borrows nothing from the styling of the current XJ, which has remained true to the original model launched in 1968. The clean sheet design introduces a completely new look for the flagship Jaguar, although it does use styling cues and detailing from the XF saloon.

At the front is a huge grille, bigger than the XF’s – Jaguar has attempted to make the car look like a BMW with a false divider – that’s deeply inset behind the frame. The headlights, almost entirely taped up on this car, are from the C-XF concept car; they’re much narrower and more striking than the production XF’s.
The ridge in the front doors is a fake, designed to distract attention from the location of the wing-mounted air vents, which are said to be a different shape from the XF’s vertical vents. The door mirrors are lifted from the XF.
With the cladding lifted, the XJ’s low roofline and shallowly raked rear screen are clearly visible for the first time. At the rear the car’s coupé-look styling is clearly visible, making it unique in a market dominated by three box saloons such as the S-class and Audi A8.
The full-length glass roof has been obscured, but the effect will be of a single piece of glass that runs from the base of the windscreen to the base of the rear window. The C-pillars will be blacked out to create the impression of a floating roof, but will have a curved trim strip behind the rear doors to provide a visual stop to the rear window.
The rear lights are also fully taped up, but they actually wrap over the top of the rear wings in the style of the Citroen C6.
Although it owes nothing to the traditional look of the XJ, the new car does share a chassis and plenty of engineering with it. The all-aluminium frame remains – at a very basic level this is a very thorough reskin – although it will have been altered for new engines.
That means the XJ will be the lightest car in its class, which should also provide it with a performance and handling advantage.

Audi will show this customised Q5 at the annual Worthersee Tour gathering of VW and Audi enthusiasts, which starts tomorrow.
The Q5 Custom Concept is a lowered, widened version of Audi’s mid-size SUV, with a retuned 3.0-litre TFSI V6 engine.

The car’s track has been increased by 90mm and the ride height has been lowered by 60mm. The Q5 Custom Concept is fitted with 21-inch wheels.
The engine’s power has been increased from 333hp to 408hp, and torque is up to 369lb ft, which gives the Q5 a claimed 0-62mph time of 4.4sec. That makes the Q5 theoretically as fast as a 4.2 R8.

THE ’Roc just got harder! The Scirocco R is the fastest, most aggressive version of the Golf-based coupé yet, and Auto Express has been granted an exclusive audience with it – giving us the chance to bag these first official images.
Joining the Touareg R50 and the Passat R36 as one of the performance flagships in the VW range, the Scirocco R is the first model to use the simplified ‘R’ designation – and it’s a thrilling prospect. At its heart is a revised 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine with uprated pistons, high-pressure injectors and a bigger turbocharger.
The result is a startling 261bhp and 350Nm of torque – up 57bhp on the existing 2.0 TSI. Despite the significant hike in power, drive is still sent exclusively to the front wheels via either a six-speed manual or a twin-clutch DSG gearbox.
To help contain wheelspin on exiting corners, an XDS electronic differential, first seen on the new Golf GTI, is fitted as standard. Larger brake discs and gloss black calipers ensure the newcomer has excellent stopping power.
Even when parked up, there’s no mistaking the Scirocco R for lesser models. A redesigned front bumper is punctuated with a trio of deep air intakes and incorporates a pair of jewel-like LED running lights.
There’s a gloss black finish on the wing mirrors and grille, while the rubbing strips on the side of the standard car are removed for a smoother profile. More pronounced body-coloured side skirts add to the drama.
At the back, more gloss black can be found on the enlarged diffuser, bracketed by a pair of wide-set oval exhausts. A more prominent rear spoiler plus a single ‘R’ badge marks this car out. The interior also gets a makeover, featuring new sports seats embossed with ‘R’ logos, black trim and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
White backlit dials swept by blue needles are a unique feature we’ll see more of on ‘R’ models in the future – including the Golf R, set to debut with the Scirocco at the Nürburgring 24 hours race this weekend. Sales of the Scriocco R are set to start in September, with prices from around £26,000. For more details click here.

Get a load of Vauxhall’s fastest-ever estate. The firm has released the first official pictures of its Insignia VXR Sports Tourer.
It joins the hatch and saloon to complete the flagship range, and the deeper bumpers, large mesh front grille, matt-finished chrome exhaust pipes and VXR badges make it easy to identify.The newcomer also rides 10mm lower than the standard car on 19-inch alloys, features Brembo brakes and gets an adaptive 4WD system and a limited slip differential.
Inside are Recaro race seats, as well as a VXR steering wheel and gearknob. The car delivers on all this promise, too. Under the bonnet is a 2.8-litre turbo V6. This 320bhp unit propels the Insignia from 0-62mph in six seconds, on the way to a top speed of 155mph.The suspension is stiffer than that of the standard car, while engineers have covered in excess of 6,000 miles during testing at Germany’s gruelling Nürburgring race track to ensure supreme handling ability.Practicality hasn’t been compromised in the pursuit of performance, though. The 540-litre boot can be expanded to a huge 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded flat. This blend of flexibility and pace has left bosses confident that the newcomer will tempt buyers of more expensive rivals such as the BMW 335i Touring and Audi S4 Avant. Prices will be announced in the summer, but buyers can expect to pay around £25,000 for the VXR Sports Tourer when it arrives towards the end of the year. For more details click here.

These are the first official photos of the Subaru Legacy Touring Wagon, released to co-incide with the Legacy's launch in Japan.
The Touring Wagon shares flat-four mechanicals with the saloon, and fills out the customary three model range.
The message with this fifth generation Legacy is that Subaru’s decided to push its major breadwinner substantially upmarket.
The new cars are bigger all round, more plush and the main Boxer engine now spans 2.5 to 3.6-litres. Europe will be in line for an updated version of Subaru’s excellent 2.0-litre Boxer diesel but precise details on that, and the launch timing for the new Legacy in Europe are still under wraps. However, an appearance at September’s Frankfurt Show looks almost certain.
With their Boxer engines and Symmetrical 4WD, the new Legacy and Outback follow a hi-tech design path that’s been an essential part of Subaru’s DNA for years
For 2009, however, this is essentially a brand new package, packed with new technology including Lineartronic CVT transmission, a first for the Legacy, to help boost economy and lower C02 emissions.
Subaru has also spent the cash on a completely new platform with a substantial 80mm stretch in wheelbase (75mm for the Outback), plus wider tracks.
Dimensions grow in tandem. The new saloon and Touring Wagon are each 95mm longer and 50mm wider than outgoing versions.
The new uppercrust Outback grows 45mm in length and 50mm in width and rooflines in the new series push up by as much as 80mm.
Controversially, Subaru has dropped the lead-in 2.0-litre option, starting things off with a revised version of its long running 2.5 flat-four (170 ps). A turbo 2.5 pumps out 281bhp and replaces the former 3.0-litre sports model.
The new Outback kicks off with the atmo 2.5 but top versions get the creamy 3.6-litre flat-six from the Tribeca SUV.
Visually, the new looks might well divide opinion, but this is clearly this is the most sophisticated and ambitious Legacy yet.

A fourth variant of Volkswagen’s unshakable Golf will be available from November. The MkVI version of the hugely successful all-rounder already comes as a three and five-door hatch, Golf Plus, and now as an even roomier estate. Minor revisions to the styling have been made at the rear to accommodate the larger boot and longer overhang – the result is a very respectable 1,495-litre boot capacity. And thanks to a flexible seating arrangement it can adapt to any task.VW’s existing engines will be available, which amongst others includes a 120bhp TSI petrol and two turbodiesels, with 104bhp and 138bhp. Expect to pay a premium of between £500 and £700 over the five-door hatch, with prices starting from around £15,000. For more details click here.

Full photos and details have been leaked ahead of schedule concerning the production version of BMW's upcoming 5 Series Gran Turismo. Attempting to combine a grand touring sports coupe, sports activity vehicle, and luxury sedan in one vehicle, the newest addition to the 5 Series features few exterior changes from the concept version we saw at this year's Geneva Auto Show.
Power will come from BMW's twin-turbo V-8 producing 400 hp - good enough for a 5.4-sec. dash from 0 to 60 mph. The engine will be mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic gearbox, capable of delivering the engine's 450 lb-ft of torque reliably. The transmission features a taller top gear than BMW's more common six-speed gearbox, giving reduced fuel consumption and quieter cruising. Regenerative braking is also on the menu, allowing the alternator to remain disengaged from the engine most of the time for improved efficiency. BMW expects a top speed of 150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package which includes high-speed tires. Vehicles equipped with the standard all-season tires will be limited to 130 mph for reasons of safety, claims BMW.
Style-wise, the distinct "Hofmeister Kink" remains intact in six-window form, with its characteristic upswept tail at the rear three-quarter window. Both upper and lower side character lines are also remain; the upper being a sharp crease along the door handle lines that extends from headlights to taillights, and the lower being a softer scallop beginning halfway along the front fender and terminating at the rear door's trailing edge. Front and rear valances were also left largely alone, with a stout, vertical nose and L-shaped, wraparound taillights. The gently rearward-sloping roofline culminates in a similar upswept tail to the concept version, although the fin-like antenna has been moved from the subtle roof spoiler to just aft of the standard panoramic sunroof.
As expected, larger changes are to be found inside. Gone is the concept's keystone center console that extended from front cabin to rear as a singular shared element. Thankfully, the scalloped rear ceiling remains, giving occupants a touch more headroom to compensate for the car's sloped rear roof. In standard configuration, the 5 Series GT seats five, although an optional extra includes two individual reclining rear seats separated by a tall, stubby center console with cupholders and a storage compartment. All seating is higher from the ground than in typical BMWs in order to provide better exterior visibility for all occupants, as well as easy ingress and egress to the vehicle.
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept's two-piece dual-opening trunk has survived the cut and will live on in the production version. Access to the trunk is given either by lifting the entire rear hatch, or by opening a panel under the rear glass, as one would a trunk lid. The trunk assembly is constructed of aluminum, as are the vehicle's doors and many suspension components, in an effort to save weight.
BMW expects the 5 Series Gran Turismo's world premiere to be at the Frankfurt show this September, and the first production models should arrive at U.S. showrooms in the fourth quarter of this year, as 2010 models. The vehicle's MSRP, though not finalized, is planned to start in the $65,000 to $70,000 range. For more information, be sure to stay tuned for our First Look article, but meanwhile, have a glance at the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept here.

The Volkswagen Touareg and its Porsche Cayenne sibling serve as the perfect example for the synergies between VW and Porsche. Porsche developed both SUVs, while VW builds them at its Bratislava, Slovenia, plant. Porsche fits V-8 engines into the SUVs’ bodies in its Leipzig, Germany, facility, while the V-6 engines of the entry Cayennes are fitted at VW’s plant in Slovakia. The partnership has worked well: the Cayenne has served Porsche's existing customer base while bringing new buyers to the brand, and the Touareg bolstered VW's claim that it is a premium carmaker more convincingly than the ill-fated Phaeton.
To the latter point, the Touareg has always impressed us with its mountain-goat-like off-road capability and superbly finished interior. Where it falls short of the competition, however, is in seating capacity—unlike some others in its class, it is just a five-seater—and its heft. It is simply too heavy, with curb weights well into the 5000-pound range.
With the next-generation Touareg, spied here, VW aims to address both shortcomings. A VW source hints at available third-row seating, but we advise you not to sell your Suburban yet, since, as in most SUVs of this type, it will be mostly symbolic in nature.
Impressively, the specification brief for the new Touareg called for up to 600 pounds to be shaved from the portly SUV, although our VW source acknowledges this target was rather optimistic, and won't stand when the Touareg reaches showrooms. With variation depending on engine choices, we believe half of the original target to be a more realistic figure.
We suspect that VW could either permanently diminish the Touareg’s off-road capability or make it optional; the company’s engineers must have watched with dismay as customers thwarted the capabilities of the all-wheel drive hardware with their beloved 18- to 20-inch wheels. In terms of saving weight and cost, taking out some of that unused capability is nearly a no-brainer.
U.S.-spec engine choices will likely include the current 3.6-liter V-6 and 4.2-liter V-8 gasoline engines, as well as the 3.0-liter V-6 TDI diesel. In Europe, the current V-10 TDI will make way for an Audi-sourced V-8 TDI with similar power—VW wouldn't abandon the upper diesel segment, our source says—since adjusting the V-10 for upcoming emission limits is too costly. The V-8 TDI does everything just as well, anyway. The silky-smooth 450-hp, W-12 gasoline engine, identical to the unit used in the top-of-the-line Audi A8L W12, will die or—we hope—simply hibernate until the economic crisis is over. A gasoline hybrid based on Audi's supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 is a done deal—we’ve already driven a Cayenne so equipped—but it will be added to the lineup about a year after launch.
The exterior will be a forceful evolution of the current styling, and the interior will be slightly more sporty in style, adding contemporary infotainment systems. Don't expect too much of the Tiguan's kitschy details to migrate to the next-generation Touareg. This SUV, finalized under the guidance of Walter de'Silva, will break away from the glitzy style of Murat Günak, his predecessor.
The Touareg will be launched in Europe next April and in the U.S. later in 2010. While VW and Porsche are currently engaged in a war as to who will occupy the throne in their partnership, the dust should have settled by the time this ute reaches the market.

If these barely disguised prototypes look familiar to you, it’s no surprise: This BMW X1 was already shown at last year's Paris auto show under the rather unimaginative but BMW-typical "Concept X1" moniker. Now BMW is testing prototypes on the Spanish island of Mallorca and releasing some details as the car is readied for its official launch later this summer. This will be BMW's fourth size of SUV—sorry, “SAV”—after the X3, X5, and X6.
The elderly X3 is having an increasingly difficult time in a changing marketplace that now includes the Audi Q5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLK. The X5 and X6, on the other hand, have been getting flak for their politically incorrect appetite for fuel—even before BMW, in a somewhat incendiary move, added the over-the-top X5 M and X6 M. For more details click here

What better way to enjoy the warm summer days that are nearly upon us than to cruise in one of Volkswagen's new California vans, right? Well, for those van-types looking to get away for away in style, VW has just released a limited California Black Edition featuring classy and sophisticated appointments suitable for the most discerning of campers.
Its exterior wears a single dark black livery matched with numerous chrome accents. Each corner receives 18-in. black faced wheels, while up front, headlights get the bi-xenon treatment. Open up any of the doors and passengers are treated to Alcantara and leather trimmings. Front occupants are in command of a three-zone climate control system, as well as a GPS navigation. Drivers get the latest in park distance controllers too.Powering the mighty California is the same 130-hp TDI engine found in run-of-the-mill editions.All this coolness doesn't come cheap though. Pricing for this sleek people mover is 77,736.75 euro, or around $109,921 in Yankee money. Of course, that's if you could buy one here -- which, ironically, you can't. At least we get the actual state as a consolation prize.

Last November, we spied a tall, widened Honda Accord mule that used the front end of the U.S. Accord and the body of the European Accord Tourer wagon to cover an all-new, Toyota Venza–fighting crossover. Now, thanks to a snap-happy Tennessee tourist, we bring you the final product. Expected to be called Crosstour, it is seen here covered only by a front-end mask and some bits of tape that actually show more than they cover. (Note to Honda: Don’t take your top-secret development cars to the same places that attract camera-totin’ tourists.)
As seen on this prototype, the CUV’s front end will clearly be similar to that of the four-door Accord, although we can tell there has been some butching-up of the graphic elements beneath the thick tarps. A side swoosh similar to the Accord sedan’s passes through door handles borrowed from that model. Where the Crosstour really goes its own way, however, is aft of the B-pillar, where the window line rises to a point and the rear end slopes down to form a hatchback. The shape of the rear end appears to have necessitated the addition of a second, Insight-esque lower rear window to salvage some outward vision.
Under the skin, we expect the Crosstour to be a mix of Accord and Accord-based Pilot mechanicals, with all-wheel-drive models using a version of the system found in Honda’s SUVs. Engine choices will likely include a four-cylinder engine with at least 200 hp (possibly turbocharged) and a 3.5-liter V-6.
What strikes us most about these shots is just how closely the new CUV’s slant-back profile resembles that of Acura’s polarizing ZDX crossover, which itself is a distant cousin of the Accord. The sloping deck will both restrict cargo space somewhat compared with traditional crossovers and invite plenty of controversy—a surprising dare-to-be-different approach that is noteworthy from conservative Honda, especially given the American aversion to hatchbacks.
Pricing will likely start at about $25K, with well-appointed models reaching into the mid- to high-thirties. We expect the Crosstour to go on sale late this year as a 2010 model.

It’s five alive! Peugeot is filling the gap in its line-up with the launch of a brand new people carrier, the 5008.
Available as both a five and seven-seater, the model is the spiritual successor to family favourites such as the 504 and 505 estate. It’s developed on the platform of the C4 Grand Picasso from sister firm Citroen, and will debut at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show, before hitting dealers early next year.
At 4.5m long, it’s 20cm shorter than the 807 MPV and designed to be ultra-flexible. Each passenger seat folds flat, while those in the rear can slide forwards and backwards. With 2.76 metres from the dashboard to the hatchback, the car will easily accommodate longer loads. Cargo carrying is expected to be a key selling point for the 5008, and the capacity ranges from 758 to 2,506 litres.
There will be two 1.6-litre petrol engines, delivering 120bhp or 156bhp, and three diesels: a 110bhp 1.6, plus a 2.0-litre with 150bhp or 163bhp. Fuel economy ranges from 38.6mpg to 54.3mpg. For more details click here.

THERE’S some shady business going on at VW. It has released official images of this new special-edition Eos White Night. As the name suggests, the coupé-cabriolet is finished in white, but it gets a contrasting black roof, door mirrors and front grille surround. Even the 18-inch alloy wheels are partially painted black, before being polished to a shine. The light and dark theme continues inside, with black Nappa leather seats, trim and steering wheel. Each is detailed with contrasting white stitching, while the White Night name is embossed on the door sills. The special is one of a range of variants produced as part of the Volkswagen Individual programme – but the bad news for fans of the brand is that it won’t be offered in the UK. Nevertheless, Eos buyers here will be able to buy the Azuro wheels as an accessory from their local main dealer. They’re priced at £200 each.Also soon to be sold in showrooms is a new aerodynamic enhancement kit for the Eos. A spokesman for VW told Auto Express: “We plan to release this in the UK, although it’s likely to be a special order item from our retailers. “No prices have been released yet, but we would expect the complete kit to cost around £1,500.” For more details click here.

BMW has Mercedes' monstrously powerful S63 AMG in its sights! These are the pictures that prove BMW is ready to launch a incredible M7 version of its flagship luxury saloon.
As you can clearly see in our close-up images, the front spoiler has been completely reworked for a more dynamic look, and to provide better cooling to the engine and brakes. An M3-style bonnet bulge has also been added in order to accomodate the larger engine. The hood will also be made from alumimium to take some weight away from the nose and help to ensure perfect 50-50 weight distribution.
The most likely candiadate for providing the M7's power is the 550bhp 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 fitted to the X6M and X5M - that's more horsepower than the S63 AMG and the most powerful Porsche Panamera. A 0-60mph time of under 4.5 seconds means performance should be well within the supercar bracket, too. For more details click here.

BMW has dropped a limited-run version of its smoking M3 Coupe. Known as the 'Edition Models', the fettled Coupes are available in a choice of four exterior colours with colour coded design cues inside and out, as well as a lower chassis.
Buyers can choose between Alpine White (pictured), Black, Dakar Yellow or a Monte Carlo Blue paint job, while exterior features such as dark-chrome side gills and quad exhaust pipes mark the Edition Models out. The 19-inch M-light alloys can be also ordered in Black, silver or white depending on individual taste. On the inside, black leather seats are lifted by contrast stitching to match the exterior colour scheme.
But it's the new suspension with 10 millimetre lower spring settings, for even flater cornering, that will have M3 fans licking their lips. Elsewhere, the M3's 414bhp 4.0-litre V8 remains untouched.The M3 Edition goes on sale in July and will only be in production for a strict period of six months. Prices are yet to be confirmed. For more details click here.

Hyundai has unveiled the latest revisions to its Korean-market Verna, better known here as the Accent. The freshened looks, clearly derived from the new Genesis Coupe, are expected to reach our shores for the 2010 model year.

For now, all the big updates appear to be cosmetic, with the most notable changes coming to the front and rear. Up front, the Verna Transform/2010 Accent sports a new grille reminiscent of the snout found on the Genesis Coupe, which could become something of a corporate grille, at least in shape. Sleeker headlights and a more aggressive lower fascia turn the rather plain-looking accent into a much more stylish and aggressive vehicle, even if it is slightly odd by U.S. standards. A new bumper, chrome exhaust and new taillights liven things up out back.

Inside, the new Verna/Accent will get new gauges, a stylish new center stack, Aux and USB jacks for the stereo, a standard subwoofer and an "ECO Assist" system that will show a green light on the dash when driving efficiently and a red lamp when driving inefficiently.The new Verna Transform will hit Korean showrooms later this month and while international distribution hasn't been finalized yet, we expect to see the revised Accent visit our shores within the next year as a 2010 model. What do you think? Would you buy one?

Lincoln is in the midst of a styling renaissance, of which the Ford Edge–based Lincoln MKX was one of the forefathers. Now that Lincoln’s corporate style is galvanizing around the split-waterfall grille, our spy photographers have captured evidence that the company will wrap the MKX’s nose with the now-familiar look for 2010.
While the family schnoz is the most immediately recognizable element of the redesigned MKX, perhaps the more important updates will take place inside, where the Lincoln’s somewhat stodgy interior gets a needed injection of pizzazz. As Ford and Lincoln try to spin themselves as technology leaders (witness the equipment list available on the new MKS and MKT), both the style and substance of their technologically advanced offerings become increasingly important.
To that end, the MKX gets a new stitched-leather dash that cascades around a wildly edgy new center-console design. The touch-screen nav system is nestled in a sculpted console that appears to sport tactile sensors—rather than traditional buttons—for the HVAC and audio controls. The smoothing of interior shapes also will reach to the new steering wheel, which loses a spoke and the previous blocky styling for a more upscale shape reminiscent of an Acura wheel, but without the button overload.
While nothing is confirmed yet, the new EcoBoost twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 is proliferating through Lincoln’s lineup and could endow this crossover with a serious performance edge. We wouldn’t be surprised to see the 355-hp mill powering the MKX somewhere down the line.
Regardless of powerplant, the interior of the upcoming MKX looks like it will take on a more space-age look in line with Lincoln’s new, high-tech image. Although the jury is still out on the brand’s new corporate grille, the inside of the 2010 MKX is shaping up to be a pleasant place to pass the miles.

If the Ghost is the new 'Baby Rolls', here's the MINI version! Spied in the workshop receiving its finishing touches, this is definitely one small car with big ideas.
Featuring a Royal Blue paint-job, bodykit and new alloy wheel design, it certainly appears upmarket from the outside. Inside the cabin, swathes of cream leather cover everything up to and including the air-vents, while high-quality walnut veneer finishes off the Rolls Royce ambience perfectly.
But before you start beating down the door of your local dealership, there's no conformation that the special edition will make into production. However, a spokesman for the brand told Auto Express recently that a limited-run MINI based on one the other brands under BMW's umbrella was not out of the question.

The Rolls Royce Ghost is almost finished – and we've caught it tooling around southern Germany practically undisguised!The 5.4 metre long ‘baby’ Rolls can be seen here with a stainless steel bonnet and windscreen surround, a feature that was only previously seen on the 200EX concept car. The only attempts made at keeping the true identity of the Ghost under wraps are the blacked out badges on the front and back, a lack of ‘RR’ badging on the wheel hubs and the Spirit of Ecstasy bonnet mascot is notably absent. Power nuts will be pleased to know that the Ghost has an all-new turbocharged 6.6-litre V12 under its shiny bonnet, which should be good for over 500bhp. While it looks like the Phantom, and apes its ‘suicide doors’, the Ghost actually shares a platform with the BMW 7-Series. Though it will be priced neatly inbetween them both at around £180,000 (before options).We’ll find out more about it in September, where it’ll be launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Peugeot engineers have been caught final testing the Audi TT-rivalling 308 RC Z, which will be fitted with a Mini Cooper JCW 1.6 turbo, possibly tuned to 218bhp.
As you can see from our spy pictures the production car is almost identical to the concept unveiled at the 2007 Frankfurt show.
The headlights have been toned down slightly and the kink along the bottom of the side windows is not so exaggerated, but the overall proportions are the same.
The production car is even likely to retain the classic Zagato-style roof bulges and multi-spoke wheel design of the concept, although the centre exit exhaust is likely to be lost.
Peugeot believes the front-drive only RC Z will challenge non-quattro TTs but will undercut the Audi on price.
A Peugeot insider said the car has an almost identical footprint to the German coupe and prices will start below £20,000.
While the flagship gets the Mini JCW engine, the base model gets the 150bhp 1.6 THP (Turbo High Pressure) 16v engine that is currently found in the 207 150 GT.
The new generation 2.0-litre HDI in either 150bhp or 163bhp form will also be available, all mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. A six-cylinder engine is likely to be ruled out.
The name of the production car is yet to be decided and will be revealed at the car’s Frankfurt show debut this year. Expect UK sales to start in May 2010.

Last month we showed you the first photos of the AMG version of Mercedes-Benz' updated CL - the car that will be renamed S-Class Coupe to coincide with the refresh (not unlike the CLK's renaming as E-Class Coupe). Now, our intrepid spy shooters have caught up with the standard S-Class Coupe which appear to love playing in the snow just as much as its sportier brother.

The standard S-Class Coupe receives many of the same changes we've already seen, still remaining a subtle refresh of the current CL design. The headlamps are reshaped and the modified front bumper is given LED daytime driving lights. The grille is slightly reworked and more upright than its predecessor, while out back, full LED taillights have been added. The rear bumper also receives a once-over (though it's heavily camouflaged) and new exhaust pipes round out the external cosmetic changes.

Following Mercedes' current philosophy, it's safe to say that the S-Class Coupe will receive a few mechanical enhancements to boost power while lowering emissions and increasing economy. Along these lines, could we see an S-Coupe 400 BlueHybrid in the near future? Wait and see...

A few details and a look at the next-generation Chrysler 300 full-size sedan—as well as the 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee—have seeped out via Chrysler’s viability plan recently submitted to the U.S. government.

As did Audi when redesigning the TT, Chrysler faced the difficult challenge of reinventing an icon when it went to the drawing board for the next 300. The new 300 possesses a shape similar to that of its predecessor, but looks more elegant. Up front, Chrysler moves to a new corporate grille, first previewed on the Imperial concept and most recently, the 200C EV concept shown at the 2009 Detroit auto show. The thin horizontal chrome bars are sleeker than the eggcrate worn by the current car, and they give the new 300 less of a boxy, road-barge look. Headlight clusters are squared and smoothed, while the front bumper is much more integrated, tightening up the chin.
The 300 will again feature fender flares, but the lower part of the arches is much less prominent. The upper body crease creates a gently arching shoulder in place of the straight and sharp line of the current model, and the new 300 also loses the side molding, giving the upper crease more definition. Expect visibility to be improved though slimmer A-pillars, more glass, and a much smaller C-pillar created through the use of a small A-frame window at the rear.
Although there is no view of the rear, expect to see a significant change from the current car. We anticipate the rear will mimic the clean front styling of the car, better integrating the exhaust tips in the lower valance. LED taillights are nearly a certainty.

With the latest Dodge Ram demonstrating Chrysler’s renewed interest in interior quality, we expect the new 300 to use similarly improved materials. Sticking with the clean theme of the exterior, the new cabin appears simple and refined. The instrument panel houses two large circular gauges—similar to those in the Ram—while a large display operating Chrysler’s UConnect infotainment system tops the center console. The climate controls reside below the screen.

Hemi fans can relax, as the V-8 featuring cylinder deactivation will carry over from the existing model, and it should boast increases in both power and fuel economy. Chrysler says that the new 300 will also be available with an all-new “fuel-efficient” six-cylinder engine—likely the Phoenix line the company has been promising—which we think will produce at least 260 hp. New safety features will include rear cross-path and blind-spot monitoring systems. Most, if not all, of these features will likely carry over to a similarly redesigned 2010 Dodge Charger.
No word yet on when the new 300 will be officially revealed, but you can expect to see it and the next Dodge Charger on dealer lots in 2010.

The 1 Series sure doesn't feel old, but, come 2012, the coupe turns four. That's when you can expect the new version, shown above and to the left, to appear. BMW is preparing the new version already, and our spy photographers caught a mule undergoing testing

According to our photographers, the mule here is wider and longer than the current version, indicating that the new model has grown a bit. You can expect an increase in interior volume, too. Also, the nose will feature prominent "kidneys" akin to those of the 5 Series Gran Turismo.Drivetrains remain a mystery at this point, but if the M Division's plans are any indication, expect a slew of turbocharged engines ranging in displacement from 1.4L to 3.0L. An M version -- not named "M1" -- is on the way in 2014, as we've reported, with a turbocharged inline-four and hopes of evoking the fan-favorite E30 M3.
BMW is likely to reveal the five-door hatch above first, followed by a three-door version. No word on either hatch coming to the U.S., but you can safely expect the coupe and convertible to return.

Copa load of this ‘super’ Leon – it’s the most powerful car SEAT has ever made!

Under the striped bonnet lies a highly tuned version of the 2.0-litre TFSI engine from the standard Cupra, which pumps out 281bhp. As a result, the Copa completes the sprint from 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, and goes on to a top speed of 157mph.

To cope with this pace, engineers have revised the Leon’s suspension and uprated the brakes. So as well as being faster than the standard Cupra, the Copa should handle better.

SEAT has developed the model to mark the seventh year of its one-make race series, the Supercopa, which supports the DTM German touring car championship.

And with its bold stripes and aggressive bodykit, it looks like a racer for the road. A pair of leather bucket seats features inside, while the unique paintwork is echoed on the centre console with two vertical white racing stripes in direct contrast to the black-on-white exterior. Other details include Copa-badged floor mats and alloy pedals on the inside, with black-painted 18-inch alloys and twin tailpipes outside.

Here are the first spy shots of the newly facelifted Porsche 911 Turbo convertible, which launches next year.
The drop-top 997 Turbo will get a direct injection engine like the recently updated standard 997. It'll also benefit from Porsche¹s excellent PDK dual-clutch gearbox, which offers rapid, seamless shifts.
It's likely that the 997 Turbo's new breed direct injection engine will offer 20-30bhp more than before, pushing peak power beyond 500bhp. But direct injection also means that the Turbo will be around 15 percent more economical than before.
Like the facelifted 911 we've already driven, the Turbo will be marked out with LED tail lights and cosmetic changes to the front and rear spoiler. These subtle changes are most noticeable at the front, where the air intakes in the spoiler are different

Spied here, heavily disguised under stretched and widened Jetta bodywork, is a mule housing prototype components for two cars: Volkswagen's New Compact Sedan and New Mid-Size Sedan. Both will spearhead the company's attack on Japanese and Korean dominance of the import sector in the U.S. market.
It is VW's ambition to become the number-one global carmaker, surpassing even the Toyota juggernaut. To reach that goal, obstacles need to be overcome, a major one being the brand's lackluster performance in the U.S. Due to misguided product policies and the occasional severe quality problem, VW has dropped off the radar screen for many customers—if it was even there in the first place.
Both the NCS and NMS sedans are variations of the ubiquitous PQ35/PQ46 platform, which hosts a multitude of cars stretching from Golf/Rabbit to CC. The NCS will be developed mainly for the U.S. market, and it may retain the well-established Jetta moniker. The larger NMS is intended to simultaneously satisfy U.S. and Chinese tastes, so beware of chrome and ostentation. It won't go to Europe, where the next Passat will be aiming to make life difficult for the BMW 3-series and Mercedes-Benz C-class.
Why is VW walking away from global cars, especially at a time when other automakers are globalizing? The company feels that American and Asian customers don't appreciate the refinement of its current offerings. "U.S. customers look at car size and engine displacement. They won't pay a dollar extra for a Passat over the Camry just because of its finesse and attention to detail," a company executive told us in Wolfsburg. And he was concerned the NCS and NMS might still be too costly to produce compared to their Asian competition.
Indeed, the Passat, despite its merits, doesn't come close to the sales success of the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, but the Jetta has consistently done well in the U.S. Europeans find it hard to believe, but the Jetta enjoys an aura of coolness here, a reputation enhanced by performance versions such as the GLI, which was never available in the Old World. In Europe, the Jetta has always been viewed as an old folks' car; it hasn't sold well and was renamed twice as the Vento and the Bora before VW ruefully (and without much effect) reverted to the original moniker.
While the NCS and NMS are developed with strict cost-cutting targets, there is no reason to be concerned about a lack of capability on the road. The rather agricultural but still competent 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine is expected to carry on; for real fun, look for different variations of VW's turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine and the 2.0-liter TDI turbo-diesel. VW could also bring the highly efficient 1.4-liter TSI to the U.S. Dual-clutch transmissions will replace the current automatic gearbox, and all-wheel drive is a possibility.
The New Mid-Size Sedan will be built at VW's Chattanooga, Tennessee, plant. The New Compact Sedan, which shares its platform, could be made there as well. Both vehicles will be available in 2010 as 2011 models.

2010 Lexus GX470 Facelift

We wouldn't blame you if you forgot about the Lexus GX470's existence, but come next fall, a new version of the midsize luxury SUV is on its way, Ward's Auto reports.

The GX470, which is based on the European Toyota Land Cruiser shown at left, arrived in the U.S. in 2003 and has only been mildly updated since. With the larger LX570 (Lexus' U.S.-market Land Cruiser) now powered by a 5.7L V-8 producing 383 hp, the GX's powerplant will be upgraded as well.A 310-hp 4.6L V-8 -- the same one in the 2010 Toyota Tundra -- will power the new GX, replacing the 263-hp 4.7L V-8 currently under the hood. This means the new SUV's moniker probably will become the GX460.Lexus GX sales have fallen from a 2004 peak of 35,420 units annually -- about 2950 a month on average -- to just 2210 last month. Still, the segment is an important one for Lexus to fill. The RX only seats five, compared to the current GX's maximum of eight. There's also towing capacity to consider: An AWD RX350 can tow 3500 lbs with the tow package, but the GX can tow 6500 lbs. Let's not forget that you could buy two RXs and still not equal the base price of the LX570 SUV.The 2010 GX will sport different sheetmetal, an updated interior and, perhaps most importantly, a different rear door than the side-opening version presently on the SUV.The 2009 Lexus GX470 (pictured at top) currently lists for $48,490, including the destination fee. Expect that figure to move closer to $50,000 for the next-generation model.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

2011 Kia Amanti

After years of fighting for recognition, Kia has been on a roll over the past few months with several hit product introductions and appears poised to keep up the pace through 2009. Today, we've received a fresh batch of spy shots, this time of the Kia Amanti replacement.

Currently known only by its "VG" internal designation, our spy photographers tell us that the Amanti replacement you see here is both longer and wider than the current car. Word is that it will be a luxury sedan with a premium interior aimed at the Volkswagen Passat CC and other luxury and premium European sedans. The VG is reportedly built on Kia's new FWD platform that also underpins the Azera/Grandeur. Reports indicate that a prototype 3.5L V-6 mated to an automatic transmission is lurking under the heavily-camouflaged hood and that it may be paired to an all wheel-drive system. Rumor has it Haldex provided just such a system to Kia for study, and it may well have found its way into this prototype.
Not much can be seen under the camouflage, but the projector headlamps and LED taillights are easy to spot. The wide stance, tall hood line and low roofline give the VG an aggressive look, but much of that could be attributed to the disguise. The massive vent-shaped accoutrements on the hood obviously will not make it to production, so the finished car's look could be substantially different.The Amanti replacement is expected to debut in September, likely at the Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany

2009 Ford Fiesta ST

The sensational new Ford Fiesta ST has broken cover – and I have the first pictures. With the performance, pace and personality to leave its rivals trailing, the all-new hot hatch promises to raise the bar in the supermini sector. The blue oval faces stiff competition from models such as the Abarth Grande Punto and Vauxhall’s Corsa VXR, but bosses are aiming to put the Fiesta back at the top of the class.Our spies have already caught prototypes for the hot Fiesta being put through their paces, and as our exclusive pictures show, it will certainly look the part. The new ST will bring a range of cosmetic additions, including handsome alloy wheels and a spoiler above the rear windscreen. The revised front bumper includes a purposeful air intake and a pair of foglamps, while a diffuser-style back bumper incorporates racy twin tailpipes. Pronounced side sills and lowered suspension also help to provide a more aggressive stance.Inside, buyers can expect a much more luxurious cabin than offered in the current model, with high-quality soft-touch plastics as well as vastly improved switchgear. The ST will also benefit from supportive sports seats. Top-spec cars even get a pano­ramic glass sunroof and Blue­tooth phone connectivity, using Ford’s new Sync in-car entertainment set-up. The go-faster model also promises to be more practical than ever, thanks to the new Fiesta’s spacious interior. Officially, Ford isn’t announcing plans for a hot version of the next generation, but Auto Express can reveal it will take the wraps off a new range of hi-tech turbocharged direct-injection EcoBoost petrol powerplants at the Detroit Motor Show next week. The line-up will appear across the model range, and includes a 2.0-litre engine producing 275bhp. But the ST is likely to get a smaller 1.6-litre unit, making around 180-190bhp. This will put the newcomer on a par with the likes of the 189bhp Corsa VXR. With the supermini’s lightweight construction, the engine should be powerful enough to take the range-topper from 0-60mph in around seven seconds. Buyers will also be able to boost their model’s performance using officially sanctioned upgrade packages available from Essex-based engineering firm Mountune. It has developed similar parts for the outgoing ST and the hot Focus. In addition, the flagship Fiesta is set to feature economy-enhancing stop-start technology, while a punchy TDCi diesel version is on the cards, too.Ford’s chassis experts have been hard at work fine-tuning the hot sup­ermini to ensure it’s entertaining to drive. The brand has a reputation for producing sharp-handling cars, and the lightweight ST is expected to deli­ver unrivalled cornering agility, thanks to its bespoke suspension set-up.The all-new Fiesta will make its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and hit dealerships here in October. But fans of the ST will have to wait. It isn’t expected in UK showrooms before 2009. When it does arrive, though, expect a price tag in the region of £15,500.

2010 Lincoln Navigator V8 Diesel

The only sign that this mule isn't a run-of-the-mill Lincoln Navigator is dual exhaust coming out the passenger side of the Ford SUV, a fairly clear indication that Ford's new 4.4-liter diesel engine is lurking under the Navigator's hood. Eariler today an F-150 mule was also caught prowling around, also with the diesel on board.

Details of the 4.4-liter V-8, which will also appear in many of the expected places such as the F-150, Super Duty, and E-Series large vans, were leaked earlier this month after a recent Ford dealer meeeting. The engine is closely related to the 3.6-liter turbodiesel installed in European Jaguars and Land Rovers and is being designed in-house to be built at the automaker's Chihuahua, Mexico engine plant.

Compared to the current 5.4-liter V-8 found in many of Ford's larger vehicles, the new diesel is said to achieve nine percent more horsepower, 15 percent more lb-ft. of torque, and 20 percent better fuel economy, respectively. The automaker says 0 to 60 times in the two engines will be about the same. In addition, Ford is developing a urea injection system along the lines of Mercedes' Bluetec diesels to keep the new 4.4-liter running clean.

The diesel variant of the Navigator should arrive shortly after its expected freshening for 2010, either as a late-introduction 2010 model or as a 2011. It should also make its way into its Expedition sibling about the same time.

BMW's Electric Car

BMW is poised to give the go-ahead to a tiny Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) that will help to revolutionise city-centre driving. The rear-engined city car could be called Isetta and will first arrive in American showrooms in 2012.
The project was created because of new Californian regulations (soon to be copied by 12 other US states) which require big car makers to sell between a few hundred and a few thousand ZEVs every year from 2012.
However, global sales of the new model are also likely, because BMW has decided that the concept will be ideal for sale in cities all around the world. Indeed, many European cities have already established low-emissions zones.
BMW chief Norbert Reithofer recently said the company “would be obliged to sell a Zero Emissions Vehicle under the US regulations and that a battery car was “the most likely answer”.
Reithofer also said that BMW could have built just a few hundred cars to meet the US regulations but admitted that the company was also wondering if it could use the basic concept “not just for an electric car but also for a range of city cars”. These cars would use petrol and diesel motors, and could even feature BMW motorcycle engines.
The Californian regulations state that ZEVs can either be a fuel cell or battery-powered vehicle with a range of over 200 miles, or an Advanced Technology, Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV) powered by a hybrid powertrain, by compressed natural gas (CNG) or by a methanol fuel cell.
BMW has yet to decide what badge the new Isetta will wear. “It could be BMW, Mini or another name,” Reithofer said. He also said that “co-operation [with another car maker] is possible” but stated that BMW would decide by the end of 2008 “whether to go it alone”.
Because the volumes are relatively low and the potential investment is high, sources in Germany say that BMW could also team up with Mercedes’ Smart division to work on a new vehicle.
BMW is said to be looking seriously at basing the new Isetta on a small zero-emissions concept developed by Austrian engineering powerhouse Magna Steyr. Magna already builds the BMW X3 and will build the Aston Martin Rapide.

2010 Fiat Doblo

It’s not the most exciting of vehicles, but our spy photographers have snapped the next-generation Fiat Doblo being put through its paces ahead of its launch next year.
As with the current model, both commercial and passenger versions will be available.
The new Doblo will be the bigger sister to the recently unveiled Fiorino Qubo and will compete against the Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner and Renault Kangoo.
The engine range will be familiar from other Fiat offerings, with most versions likely to ship with MultiJet diesels.
The current Doblo was introduced in 2001 and, although it has sold steadily rather than spectacularly in Europe, it’s turned into something of a ‘world car’ in other developing automotive markets through localised production. Fiat currently builds it in Brazil, Turkey (with Tofas), Russia (with Severstal-Auto) and Vietnam (with Mekong).

2011 Ford Focus Coupe

If the 2011 Ford Focus Coupe is to look anything like these renderings, supplied to us by a knowledgeable source, then sign us up. The images shown are the closest thus far to showing what the new three-door Focus will look like when it eventually hits U.S. soil, likely sometime in either late 2010 or early 2011.

Sporty and aggressive, these renderings show how mean the three-door coupe version of the new Focus could look. A chopped-down roofline, large trapezoidal front grille, swept-back headlamps, and large-diameter wheels conspire to show that this grocery-getter means business. Looking at the new car from the front, there are even some Volvo C30 cues, especially towards the rear roofline and quarter panel.Of course, that shouldn't be surprising. Ford's C346 architecture -- an evolution of the current European Focus platform shared with the Mazda3 and Volvo C30 -- is the basis for the 2011 Focus. As the new platform will be global, the U.S. will no longer get a different version of the Focus than the rest of the world. Three- (pictured), four-, and five-door versions will be available (though not all will be sold in every market) and a range of engines will be offered -- from small diesels, to direct-injection gas engines, and ultimately EcoBoost turbo engines. A six-speed dual-clutch gearbox is also being developed for the car by Borg-Warner.The current European Focus is vastly refined over relative to its U.S. counterpart. With a single platform for 2011, we could even see the coveted ST and RS coupe performance versions hit our shores, although the standard four-door sedan is still expected to be the volume leader. Regardless, it's fairly clear at this point that U.S. consumers can expect to be surprised by this future Focus -- a car that should be miles ahead of its contemporary counterpart.

2010 Renault Espace

Renault is planning to replace today’s soon-to-be-axed Espace MPV with a lower and more luxurious six-seater, company design boss Patrick Le Quemen has said.
The new car will ditch many of the compromises of modern people-carriers, and follows recent research conducted by Renault that suggested modern buyers no longer appreciate the ‘exposed’ high seating positions and low window sills of traditional MPVs.
The new car is likely to have three rows of two seats and should be launched before the end of 2010.
Renault insiders insist that the Renault Espace name, first used 25-years ago on the original Matra-developed car, is “too valuable to lose”, and will probably be applied to the forthcoming six-seater. The new car is also likely to depart from the current Renault Espace’s simple, steeply-raked nose and windscreen for a more complex design.
Renault’s design team has decided that an odd number of seats, employed in most MPVs, are relatively uncomfortable for most passengers. Hence the decision to go for a ‘2+2+2’ configuration similar to that employed by the Mercedes R-class.

2010 SEAT Altea & 2010 SEAT Leon

Here's what the future holds for SEAT. These are the first official pictures of the revised Leon hatchback, ahead of its world debut at Geneva, as well as the updated Altea and Altea XL MPV.Styling changes on all three cars are based on SEAT’s new trademark Arrow design, championed by the latest Ibiza.
Notable modifications to the Leon/Altea family include smoother exterior lines, a new grille, larger headlights and fresh wheel designs. On the inside revised instrument panels, refreshed centre consoles and new door panels give the cabins a new lease of life. Improvements haven’t stopped there either - updates have been made to the car's mechanics, too. The traction control system and therefore handling have been enhanced, plus the engine line-up for all three models has grown to a choice of ten - five petrol and five diesels.Standout performers in the new range are the 2.0-litre TSI and 2.0-litre TDI units. But all the engines deliver improved performance as well as reduced fuel consumption and emissions.UK pricing and full specification details for SEAT's revised Leon and Altea line-ups will be released closer to the models' showroom debut here this summer.

2011 Honda Civic

The new Honda Civic is here – and yet again it’s set to break the mould in the family hatchback sector! These exclusive shots show how the next car will look when it hits the showroom in 2010, and as you can see, the Japanese maker has opted for a shape that is even bolder and more individual than the current model.
With Vauxhall set to launch a stylish new Astra, and the next, sleek Ford Focus due in 2010, competition is fierce – but Honda has pulled out the stops to create a real stunner. As revealed in Issue 1,023, the OSM concept seen at the British Motor Show was more than simply an ‘Open Study Model’ – as the face of the new Civic is almost identical.
There are hints of VW’s IROC concept, which was toned down to become the Scirocco, in the gaping front grille. The new hatchback adds elements carried over from the current Civic, too, most notably the trademark single strip light cluster at the rear. But Honda fans will note that the split rear screen has been dropped to improve visibility. Shallow glass areas, broad shoulders and a nose-down stance give this three-door model a sporty and purposeful look.
The hatchback ‘coupé’ pictured here will be aimed at younger buyers, who want style and image more than outright practicality. So, as well as big alloys and a contrasting black bodykit, the three-door gets lowered suspension and a dark interior with deeply sculpted seats.
The three-door will be distinct from the five, as Honda adopts an approach similar to the Renault Mégane by pitching the two cars at different buyers. So, the five-door will be more for the family, with a taller roofline offering plenty of space, a bigger boot, plus a softer ride and handling balance.
The engine line-up will be shared between the two styles, though, and our sources have revealed that a 1.5-litre IMA hybrid engine with more than 150bhp and sub-CO2 120g/km emissions will appear.
In fact, the Civic will herald a change in focus for the Japanese maker as it seeks to reduce CO2 emissions. It’s currently restructuring manufacturing facilities to cater for large-scale hybrid production.
Over the next five years, Honda plans to power all four-cylinder cars using either petrol hybrids with lithium-ion batteries or i-CTDi diesels. But it is also introducing ‘deactivation technology’ for its V6, V8 and V10 engines. This means that some
cylinders will not be used in more relaxed driving conditions in an attempt to improve efficiency.
Hot hatch fans will also be well catered for, as a Type R flagship is in the works, powered by a 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine which, given Honda’s five-year hybrid plan, could be boosted by an electric motor. This would make it the world’s first hybrid hot hatch!

2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Spec C

Subaru is looking to turn the Impreza back into a contender for class honours in the ultra-competitive high-performance family car market. These spy shots reveal a new Spec C version of the flagship STi.
Previously, Spec C evolutions of the Impreza have been officially available solely in Japan, and have only made their way to the UK in small numbers as grey imports. However, with the launch of the new hatchback model, which has been criticised for its softened approach, Subaru is tipped to change all that, as it is destined to hit British dealers in 18 months’ time.
As with its Ford Focus RS and Renaultsport Mégane R26.R rivals, the new Spec C has been undergoing extensive testing at the Nürburgring race circuit in Germany. And it looks set to be the fastest model yet developed by Subaru’s engineers. The arrival of the newcomer is great news for diehard fans of the brand, who were disappointed by the toned-down character of the current Impreza STi. There will be a host of changes to get cornering speeds up and make the steering more direct.
The new machine rides 10mm lower than the standard STi, plus features stiffer springs and dampers. Special lightweight 18-inch alloy race wheels and run-flat tyres have been added, as have uprated Brembo brakes taken from the Japan-only Legacy STi. Even beefier bodywork will ensure the new car can be instantly distinguished from the standard STi model.
The turbocharger and exhaust system have also been tweaked to push the power output of the 2.0-litre boxer engine from 296bhp to around 315bhp. Gear ratios have been revised, with fifth and sixth lengthened to boost the top speed to a supercar-chasing 170mph. However, Subaru will add an electronic speed limiter to restrict the maximum to 155mph. Inside, there are carbon fibre-shelled Recaro race seats, and as in the previous-generation Spec C, the firm will achieve further savings in weight by reducing the amount
of padding on the rear bench and removing some of the soundproofing from the cabin. A number of other minor revisions should see the car’s kerbweight drop by around 40kg.
The aerodynamics have also been tweaked to ensure class-leading stability at speed. One source close
to Subaru told us that, in addition to giving the Spec C a flat underbody, engineers fitted a lightweight aluminium rear diffuser which helps the new model generate twice as much downforce at speed than
the current flagship Impreza.
No lap times are available yet, but our spy photographer in Germany confirmed that the Spec C looked more composed than the STi in corners. He claimed it would easily slash 15 seconds off the current car’s best figure.