Cadillac CTS Coupe 2011

We first witnessed the new Cadillac CTS Coupe at the 2008 North America International Auto Show in Detroit last year. Remaining true to the concept revealed there, the ready for prime time CTS Coupe is as stunning in person as it is in front of the camera lens.

“CTS Coupe is the new focal point of Cadillac, expressing both our technical and design capabilities,” said Bryan Nesbitt, Cadillac general manager. “It is intended to appeal to a new generation of car enthusiasts.”

Available in both rear-wheel and All-wheel drive format; the CTS Coupe is intended as a classic 2+2 layout. Power comes in the form of a direct injection 3.6L V6 engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control (and available steering wheel mounted shift buttons) is optional. Performance is rated at a stellar 304 horsepower while still achieving a respectable 27 mpg highway.

Inside, features include integrated iPod/MP3 compatibility, a 40 gig hard drive, pop-up navigation system and BOSE 5.1 sound. Front seats are supremely comfortable with back seats providing adequate space for small to medium-sized occupants. Sales of the new CTS Coupe are expected to begin in spring 2010 with a “V” model making its debut later in the year.

2011 Subaru WRX STI

The current Subaru WRX STI and Impreza WRX are two favorites for many automotive sports car enthusiasts. Power and handling is first-class, with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-wheel drive providing incredible grip no matter road or weather conditions. Improving something so perfect seemed in many ways impossible.

Not for the engineers at Subaru. Weight saving is one of the best ways to increase performance and the WRX STI was put under the microscope. Anything that could be shed to aid in performance was eliminated. Upgrades for the 305 horsepower WRX STi include JDMI STI Spec wheels and a Nürburgring-tuned JDMI STI suspension.

Improvements for the Impreza WRX Limited add High-intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, leather-trimmed seats and SIRIUS satellite radio. Driving fast, while maintaining complete control of your sport sedan, just became a little more fun.

Mini Coupe Concept

It was 50 years ago that the iconic Mini was launched and to commemorate that event, the British automaker unveiled the Mini Coupe Concept, a 2-seat variant of this popular hatchback. The much lower roofline is accommodated by removing the car's rear bench seat, which increases the vehicle's luggage compartment from 5.7 to 8.8 cubic feet. The Coupe Concept rides has the same wheelbase and width as the standard Mini hatch, but is slightly longer overall while standing a full 2 inches lower. Mini is coy about whether or not the coupe will be built, but hints that the vehicle is capable of using the most powerful engine available in a Mini — the 208-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four in the John Cooper Works edition.

Audi Sports Car R8

Based on the Audi Le Mans Quattro concept car, Audi R8 was first unveiled at the 2003 Geneva Auto Show and 2003 International Motor Show. It has been equipped with 4.2 L FSI V8 engine; the same one that was used in the B7 Audi RS4. The engine provides power of 420 PS (414 hp/309 kW) and torque of 317 ft-lb (430 N-m). The transmission is either a manual gearbox, with metal gate, or an "R-tronic" gearbox (single-clutch semi-automatic sequential manual), which means the same options as in Lamborghini Gallardo.

Great Wall Gwkulla

When Great Wall Motors first presented their all-electric KULLA last year, the vehicle sported the same colors as the KULLA just unwrapped at the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show, but was a slightly geeky two-door affair. We suspect that in the intervening time the diminutive EV grew tired of bullies kicking sand in its face and, after spending some quality time with the Charles Atlas program, has returned to show the world its bigger and more attractive new look.

Keeping its bamboo-leaf-and-bubbles-inspired paint job, but now sporting four doors and four seats, the GW KULLA carries enough lithium ion batteries under its new metal to take on 100 mile drives. The DC motor is good for 50 kW and can move the car up to 80 mph. No word whether the show model will be made available for sale but the company does refer to it on their web site as, "An absolute value for mass production."

Koenigsegg NLV Quant concept

Swedish supercar marque Koenigsegg and NLV Solar AG, a pioneer in photovoltaics and accumulator technology, have joined forces to create the Quant. The brainchild of this marriage of power and energy is a four-seater solar electric car. A full-scale model is to be unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Salon, with the two companies currently working on running prototypes to scale up for series production.

Two companies, one vision

The project was born when NLV Solar AG commissioned the environmentally aware Swedish supercar manufacturer Koenigsegg to develop and design a “car of the future”, incorporating NLV Solar’s groundbreaking, proprietary technology in the felds of photovoltaics and accumulators.

In 2008, the two companies signed a co-operation agreement to create a test vehicle for a unique propulsion system which makes optimum use of the solar technologies developed by NLV Solar AG, allied with an innovative accumulator unit. The groundbreaking thin-flm solar-cell coating is being implemented in one of Koenigsegg’s signature avant-garde designs.

Groundbreaking technology

The advances in electric power generation and storage, combined with the aerodynamic, futuristic Koenigsegg design and engineering, will enable the NLV Quant to charge the FAES(Flow Accumulator Energy Storage) to full capacity in 20 minutes and give the vehicle a range of 500 kilometres. The dditional power input from the invisible, thin-flm photovoltaic coating that covers the body of the car, further increases the range potential.

The revolutionary solar and FAES systems enable the design of a fully electrical vehicle, rather than relying on more commonplace hybrid solutions. This also simplifes the drive train layout and packaging, as only one propulsion system is needed.

Given the size of the The NLV Quant, it has an unusually low frontal surface of around 2 m2. This, combined with a drag coeffcient of around CD 0.27 and the effciency of the FAES, will enable the car to cover long distances between charges.

Style and substance

The ingenious Koenigsegg design provides a unique blend of supercar looks and the space of a traditional luxury sedan. The car will carry four large adults in comfort and also feature a spacious boot at the rear.

The gull-wing doors set the NLV Quant apart from any other four-seaters on the market. As well as being a stylish feature, they also make entry to the car more ergonomic, thanks to the lack of B-pillars. They provide easy access to both the front and rear passenger seats. The unique split side-lite feature allows all passenger to open and close the front and rear side windows separately, despite the fact that there is only one door per side.

Unique features as standard

The NLV Quant is rear-wheel drive, with four-wheel brake regeneration, ABS and ESP. It is powered by two electrical AC induction electric motors with variable frequency drive and in-line planetary step down drive, one for each rear wheel. The twin-motor design eliminates the need for bevel gears or a differential, further simplifying the lay-out and giving constant and controlled power proportioning to the rear wheels, in both drive and coast mode.

The projected curb weight of 1780 kg is very light considering that it is a battery-powered, four-seater, luxury performance car. This is partly due to the two-motor installation which weighs in at only 140 kg – a remarkable achievement considering the power output of 512 hp and maximum torque of 715 nm which allows the Quant to deliver 0–100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and hit a top speed of 275 km/h. Another reason for the car’s low weight is the utilisation of a carbon-fibre monotube backbone chassis, construction, which houses the FAES system safely inside the centreline of the car at the lowest possible position, bringing down the centre of gravity and central mass point. The FAES only weigh around 450 kg and contain no hazardous material or heavy metals.

Brillance EV Concept

Chinese automaker Brilliance is showing off a new concept electric car that's currently on display at the Shanghai Motor Show. A large battery pack using lithium ion technology is reportedly capable of providing a range of around 93 miles (150 kilometers). The Chinese automaker claims that this battery can be hooked to a 220V charger that can use a "Quick Charge" feature to replenish the pack to about 80 percent in just 30 minutes.

Driving the rear wheels is a 47kW permanent magnet electric motor that puts out about 90 lb-ft of torque (120 NM) and is capable of revving to 10,000 RPM. But wait, there's more! A second electric motor powers the front wheels at speeds of around 25 miles per hour for city use. Top speed with both motors engaged is around 80 mph.

On the exterior front, this new EV concept may be vaguely inspired by the VW Space Up! concept from a few years back, but we don't think it's particularly egregious. Dual power-operated clamshell-ish doors allow access into an interior cabin that rather well done in clean-looking white materials. A fully electronic dash sits behind a yoke-style steering wheel. Have a look for yourself in our full gallery below.

Kia Forte 2010

Vehicle Summary:
The Forte is Kia's new entry in the compact-car segment, replacing the Spectra when it hits dealerships in summer 2009. Offered in LX, EX and SX trim levels, the Forte is available with a choice of four-cylinder engines and comes standard with numerous safety features, including an electronic stability system. Competitors include the Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla.

Vehicle Overview:
The Forte is Kia's new entry in the compact-car segment, replacing the Spectra when it hits dealerships in summer 2009. Offered in LX, EX and SX trim levels, the Forte is available with a choice of four-cylinder engines and comes standard with numerous safety features, including an electronic stability system. Competitors include the Honda Civic, Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla.

Exterior:
The Forte sports crisp styling that gives the sedan an athletic shape. You don't have to look too closely to find resemblances to other small cars. The front end, for instance, looks similar to a Honda Civic coupe, and the Forte's taillights remind me of the Mitsubishi Lancer's.

The base LX sedan has standard 15-inch steel wheels, while the midlevel EX model gets 16-inch alloy rims. The performance-oriented SX trim, which features a sport suspension, has 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. A sunroof is optional.

Interior:
The five-seat cabin features mostly good materials and panel fit. Some of the elements, like the available steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, have a high-end feel that you don't see in every compact car. The audio system's display has attractive red graphics.

The front bucket seats are finished in cloth, and leather upholstery is optional. The backseat is quite spacious for a compact car and can comfortably accommodate taller passengers. The 14.7-cubic-foot trunk is sizable for this class, and it can be expanded by folding the 60/40-split backseat. The release levers for that function are in the trunk.

The base LX trim goes without niceties like air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows and locks, but that should help keep its starting price low. The EX has all those features plus remote keyless entry, map lights and steering-wheel audio controls. The SX adds a telescoping steering wheel and cloth seats with red stitching.

Under the Hood:
LX and EX models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 156 horsepower. Choosing the SX trim brings a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that generates 173 hp. Both engines are offered with a manual transmission — a five-speed for the base engine and a six-speed for the SX trim — or an automatic.

Safety:
Standard features include all-disc antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags, an electronic stability system and active head restraints for the front seats.

GMC Terrain 2010

Vehicle Summary:
GMC's twin to the Chevrolet Equinox, the Terrain, is all-new for 2010. The five-seat crossover comes in front- or all-wheel drive with a four-cylinder or V-6. With front-wheel drive and the four-cylinder, GMC expects EPA highway gas mileage to end up around 30 mpg. Major competitors include the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

Vehicle Overview:
GMC's twin to the Chevrolet Equinox, the Terrain, is all-new for 2010. The five-seat crossover comes in front- or all-wheel drive with a four-cylinder or V-6. With front-wheel drive and the four-cylinder, GMC expects EPA highway gas mileage to end up around 30 mpg. Major competitors include the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

Trim levels include the base SLE and uplevel SLT. Characteristic of a crossover, the Terrain has a four-wheel-independent suspension and car-based frame — a design that emphasizes ride comfort and fuel efficiency over off-road capabilities and towing.

Exterior:
GM says it sought to provide a "confident and strong stance" with the Terrain's styling. To that end, the crossover has oversized fenders and liberal bumper cladding, both of which set the Terrain apart from its Equinox sibling. GM says that beyond the windshield, the two don't share any major body panels.

The fog lights sit within vertical housings, and the large grille wears plenty of chrome. The rear's stacked appearance recalls a number of models, from the Buick Rendezvous SUV to the Toyota Sienna minivan. A backup camera is standard, and a power liftgate is optional.

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are standard with the four-cylinder engine; V-6 models have 18-inch alloys, with 19-inchers optional. At 185.3 inches long and 72.8 inches wide, the Terrain has a larger footprint than the Escape, RAV4 and CR-V. Its turning circle, at 40 feet with 17- or 18-inch wheels, trails that group by at least 2 feet. With 19-inch wheels, the Terrain's turning circle is an even wider 42.6 feet.

Interior:
The cabin bears far more resemblance to the Equinox than does the exterior, with an upward-tilted panel housing the air-conditioning and stereo controls. The dashboard features angular styling and two-tone plastics. Standard equipment includes keyless entry, power height adjustment for the driver's seat, and a six-speaker stereo with a USB port for MP3 players. An eight-way power driver's seat, heated leather upholstery, a moonroof and a navigation system are optional.

Like the Equinox, the Terrain's second-row seat adjusts fore and aft. There's a plastic floor panel behind the seat that can be folded down to create a gap-free cargo floor. With the second row down, maximum cargo volume totals 63.9 cubic feet — not quite as good as the Escape, and about 10 cubic feet short of the RAV4 and CR-V.

Under the Hood:
Both the four-cylinder and the V-6 employ direct-injection technology. The four-cylinder displaces 2.4 liters and makes 182 horsepower; the V-6 displaces 3.0 liters and makes 264 hp. An "Eco" mode, activated by a dashboard button, alters drivetrain calibrations in the four-cylinder to maximize fuel efficiency. GM says Eco mode helps the Terrain achieve its highway mileage figures.

When properly equipped, maximum towing capacity with the four-cylinder is 1,500 pounds. With the V-6, it rises to 3,500 pounds.

Safety:
Six airbags, including side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags for both rows, are standard. So are four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system.

Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire

The Bleu Centenaire is a special model to celebrate 100 years of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S, the company originally started by Ettore Bugatti in 1909 in Molsheim, France. This model carries the traditional two-tone look of the Veyron, but does so with a combination of 'Sprintblue' Matte and 'Sprintblue' Gloss, creating an entirely unique look. The roof trim, exterior mirrors and the front and side intake grilles have been recreated with polished, anodized aluminum. The Bleu Centenaire also receives exclusive aluminum wheels and red brake calipers.

This highly exclusive Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire will run you roughly 1.7 million U.S. if you want to pick this up for your collection, but if we were betting men (which we are), we'd say that it'll likely land in some Arab Sheik's collection somewhere in the United Arab Emirates never to be seen again.

Bugatti Press Release:

Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. presents the Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire at the 2009 Geneve Motor Show, a special commission honouring the 100th anniversary of the company, thus initiating a range of worldwide activities celebrating the creation of this mythic brand a hundred years ago. In addition Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport is shown for the first time to a wider public in Europe.

Hundred years of Bugatti

In 1909 Ettore Bugatti started his business in the Alsacian town of Molsheim, France. The name of the company: "Ettore Bugatti Automobiles i.Els.". And although the name has changed into "Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.", the site and the philosophy of the brand have been preserved. In 2006 the first model under the "new management" was launched, precisely 50 years after the last car of the original company left the gates of the Molsheim factory. The Bugatti Veyron has only been on the market for three years, but has already reached the status of being an undisputed part of automotive history, with 250 cars ordered to date, and nearly 200 cars delivered. This means that there are only 50 Veyrons to be sold until the limit of 300 units will be reached.

The Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire

Building on the marque's core values of « Art - Forme - Technique » , Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. has created the Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire, a unique model to celebrate the hundred year old history of the company. This special model takes up the traditional Bugatti two-tone-specification, but portrays it in one rather than two colours: in the most known light shaded Bugatti blue. The Centenaire's unique combination of a « sprintblue matt » and « sprintblue gloss » hence offers a new impression of the two-tone-scheme known so far with parts of the engine also covered in this traditional Bugatti Blue.

The roof-trim-stripes and the exterior rearview mirrors are of polished, anodised aluminium. A special wheel design has been added - enhanced by a bright red brake-capillar. The grills at the front and at the side air intakes are in « mirror shine ».

The interior of the Centenaire is fitted in a special «snowbeige» leather with quilting on the seats. The central console is covered in the same leather. New LED lights, Park Distance Control and a rearview camera have become part of the standard equipment for all Bugatti Veyrons from this year onwards. The Bugatti Veyron Bleu Centenaire shares all performance characteristics of other Veyron models performance-, acceleration- and deceleration characteristics which have been highly praised ever since the Bugatti Veyron first appeared on the scene. The car will cost 1,35 Million Euro exclusive taxes and transportation.

"Audi Q7" 2010

Vehicle Summary:
The relatively new Q7 SUV gets a mid-cycle refresh for 2010. The Q7 was Audi's first foray into the SUV segment, but since its debut the automaker has added the Q5, a smaller and less expensive SUV.

Vehicle Overview:
The relatively new Q7 SUV gets a mid-cycle refresh for 2010. The Q7 was Audi's first foray into the SUV segment, but since its debut the automaker has added the Q5, a smaller and less expensive SUV.

The Q7 comes in five-, six- or seven-seat configurations, and can be equipped with a V-6, a V-8 or a new diesel powertrain. The Q7 competes with the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GL-Class and Acura MDX. New Q7s hit dealerships in the fall of 2009.

Exterior:
The Q7 gets redesigned headlamp jewelry, with added U-shaped LED daytime running lights and an optional cornering lighting system. The front turn-signal indicators and rear taillamps now feature LEDs. The front and rear bumpers, grille and side mirrors are also revised.

The Q7 has a 118.2-inch wheelbase and is 200.2 inches long. A powered liftgate is available. Wheels of 18-, 19-, 20- or 21-inches can be had on various trim levels.

Interior:
The new Q7 gets a few significant interior updates, including a revised instrument cluster, new ambient interior lighting and a wood trim option.

The Q7 comes with five seating positions standard and can fit six or seven with an optional third row seat, both rear rows fold flat to provide additional storage space. Cloth upholstery is standard, but leather seating surfaces are optional.

Audi has updated its MMI infotainment system, making it easier to use. The system now features enhanced voice-activation, so you can speak commands such as "I need gas" or "I need coffee," and the computer will map your closest options for you.

Other features that can be had on the Q7 include a TV tuner, a powered rear cargo cover and a 14-speaker stereo system. The Q7 has 71.87 cubic feet of cargo space when the second-row seats are folded down.

Under the Hood:
The Q7's mechanical pieces are mostly carried over from last year. There are two gasoline engines: a 280-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 with 266 pounds-feet of torque, and a 350-hp, 4.2-liter V-8 with 325 pounds-feet of torque.

A new clean-diesel powertrain is offered for 2010. The 225-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 with 406 pounds-feet of torque is estimated to return 17/25 mpg city/highway.

All powertrains work with a six-speed automatic transmission and feature permanent all-wheel drive. Options include an adjustable air suspension and carbon-fiber brakes.

Safety:
The Q7 has standard side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags for all three rows and an electronic stability system. Optional safety equipment includes a rearview camera, radar-supported adaptive cruise control and a lane assistance program that ensures the Q7 stays in its lane.

2012 Tata Nano America

A deluxe version of India’s new "people’s car” may come to America with a chump-change $7,000 price. Add in urban-jungle agility, high mpg, and surprising space, and this cute puppy could spell trouble for other U.S.-market minicars.

What We Know About the 2012 Tata Nano America

It’s being called a 21st-century Model T, a masterpiece of cost-effective engineeering, a new “people’s car” that will change the global auto industry and millions of lives. It’s the Tata Nano, revealed in early 2007 and finally available in its native India at a starting price of just $2,500.

Ratan Tata, CEO of the Tata Group combine, was determined to build a genuine four-passenger car that would be priced only a bit higher--and be much safer--than the small motorcycles most Indian families use to tote three and four people at a time. The result is a tall, egg-shaped 4-door with about the same footprint as the original 1960s British Mini, minimal equipment, and a rear-mounted 2-cylinder engine making 35 horsepower from 624 cubic centimeters. Top speed is barely 65 mph, the comfortable cruising pace only 55 mph.

The India-market Nano may be too Spartan for First World countries, but it’s just right for the millions of Third World consumers who crave a car but could never afford one before. As Ravi Kant, the head of the Tata Motors division, recently told The Economist magazine: “Through the explosive growth of cellphones and television, the aspirations of rural people are converging with [those of] urban people...The interest in the Nano is worldwide.”

* New Car Prices & Reviews
* 2009 Subcompact Car Buying Guide
* All Subcompact Car Prices & Reviews


So perhaps it was no surprise that Tata presented a deluxe version at the March 2009 Geneva Auto Show even before home-market deliveries were underway. Though this Nano Europa was billed merely as “for future launch” in developed countries, Mr. Tata later said that the Europa would likely start sale on the Continent in 2010 or 2011. Since then, one source has reported that Italy, Spain, Poland and the UK will be the initial markets. More important for U.S. consumers, Mr. Tata says his team is looking into a U.S. edition, what we call the 2012 Tata Nano “America.” It would take on the Smart ForTwo, the Korean-built 2011 Chevrolet Spark, a likely Toyota or Scion iQ and a possible 2011 Ford Ka in what’s shaping up as a whole new market class.

In case you’re wondering, Tata Motors is the company that paid $2.6 billion in 2007 to acquire British luxury-vehicle maker Jaguar Land Rover from Ford. Though JLR is something of a financial drain on Tata in the worsening worldwide recession, it does provide a wealth of global marketing know-how that should pay dividends in bringing “the world’s cheapest car” to rich-world buyers.

At a minimum, the 2012 Tata Nano America will share all the Europa’s upgrades over India-market models. The main one is a larger 3-cylinder engine, another all-aluminum unit with multipoint fuel injection, very low claimed CO2 emissions, and likely overall fuel economy above 50 miles per gallon. Tata is so far mum on displacement or outputs, but a look at comparable Japanese and Korean minicars suggests a 1.0-liter powerplant with around 65 horsepower and that many pound-feet of torque. Tata does confirm a 5-speed automatic transmission will replace the basic Nano’s 4-speed manual. Though the company won’t say more about that point either, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a low-cost automated-manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) instead of a conventional torque-converter automatic, which would cost too much and sap too much power. All Nanos carry the powertrain on a separate rear sub-frame, an unexpected plus for refinement. That includes the radiator, which receives cooling air from a vertical bodyside scoop ahead of each rear wheel.

Like the Europa, the 2012 Tata Nano America is some 7.5 inches longer than the basic model, reflecting a 2-inch-longer wheelbase and larger, restyled bumpers that are presumably strengthened for Western crash tests. The Geneva display cars indicate the America/Europa will also get higher-quality interior trim--including ersatz chrome accents and available leather upholstery--plus a rear wiper and washer, sound-deadening material, and at least four airbags, all absent from basic Nanos. Antilock brakes and a stability system with traction control are promised too, and could be standard on top-trim models. The same applies to air conditioning, front power windows, power door locks, and foglights. Finally, the premium Nano exchanges flat-face headlamp units for a more-stylish “three-hole” design.

Of course, all these changes won’t come for free. Indeed, several sources predict the 2012 Tato Nano America (Europa, too) will cost over twice as much as its no-frills parent. Still, the rumored base figure is only some $7,000, which should be more than class-competitive in the States and thus very attractive to budget-minded shoppers.

* Subcompact Cars: The 2012 Tata Nano America will compete in the subcompact car class. Here's Consumer Guide's roundup of all the subcompact cars on sale today.
* Future Cars: Step into the automotive showroom of tomorrow with reviews, analysis, pictures, prices, and preliminary specifications on scores of vehicles that will be appearing next year and beyond.

Spyker C8 Aileron

Spyker Cars' C8 line has been around for a couple years now. The C8 Aileron prototype concept car was shown to great critical reception at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2008, but Geneva 2009 brings the full, glorious introduction of the next generation C8 model, the 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron.

The second-generation C8, of which the Aileron is the first edition, keeps the classic Spyker design details intact. It is a car with functional and ornamental scoops, inlets and outlets in all the right places, but unlike the C8 Laviolette and Spyder before it, the 2009 C8 Aileron doesn't look overburdened with too many flashy design details.

The general design theme set forth by the Aileron has shifted to echoing the turbine engines found on classic airplanes. The turbine theme extends to the air intakes, lighting, exterior venting and details, and most of all in the knockout-gorgeous 19 inch multispoke the wheels.

The C8 Aileron "Aeroblade" 19s, which are some of the most beautiful wheels ever featured on a production car, show a 10-spoke design that does justice to the claim that they are styled like the blades of jet engines. Finished in chrome and wrapped in 235/35-19 tires up front with meaty 290/30-19 rubber in the rear, C8 Aileron cars equipped with the Aeroblade will instantly stand out from anything on the road, or even on the green at Pebble Beach.

Power is not abundant for a car of this prestige and price bracket; the only engine choice is an Audi-sourced 4.2 liter V8 spitting out 400 horsepower. Two transmissions are available: a Getrag 6-speed manual or ZF 6-speed automatic. Either choice should put the power to the street just fine, but enthusiasts will go for the Getrag as a matter of course.

With an all-aluminum chassis and a lift-off two piece body wrapping the supple interior and mid-mounted V8, the C8 Aileron should make the most of the power present with what should be an extremely light curb weight. The car is for those who think about design first, and from the scissor doors to body curves that look perfectly excecuted from any angle, it should not disappoint its intended clientele.

Porsche Panamera 2010

Vehicle Summary
While the launch of Porsche's Panamera four-door performance hatchback isn't quite as significant as when the German automaker entered the SUV segment, it's a milestone nonetheless. Available with a choice of high-power V-8 engines, the Panamera has the potential to broaden Porsche's appeal, much like the Cayenne SUV did when it debuted for the 2003 model year. The Panamera hits dealerships in fall 2009. Competitors include the Maserati Quattroporte, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and Audi S8.

Vehicle Overview
While the launch of Porsche's Panamera four-door performance hatchback isn't quite as significant as when the German automaker entered the SUV segment, it's a milestone nonetheless. Available with a choice of high-power V-8 engines, the Panamera has the potential to broaden Porsche's appeal, much like the Cayenne SUV did when it debuted for the 2003 model year. The Panamera hits dealerships in fall 2009. Competitors include the Maserati Quattroporte, Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class and Audi S8.

Exterior
The Panamera is an unusually styled four-door, to say the least. While it features a traditional hood with Porsche-style headlamps, when you move around to the side of the car its appearance changes significantly due to its hatchback rear styling.

Even though the Panamera is a front-engine car, it definitely takes cues from the automaker's 911 in its back end. It's the kind of design that some people will love and others will loathe.

The Panamera comes to market with three trim levels: S, 4S and Turbo. S and 4S trims have 18-inch wheels, while Turbos have 19-inch rims.

Interior
In the 911 you wonder why Porsche even bothered equipping it with its tiny rear seats, but the Panamera's backseat accommodations are much more inviting. There are two rear bucket seats just like in the first row, for a total of four seats, and a flow-through center console runs from the dashboard all the way back to the rear seats. A dual-screen entertainment system is available for backseat-passenger enjoyment.

The Panamera's instrument cluster is reminiscent of other Porsche cars, but the center console is fitted with numerous buttons around the gear selector. A dash-top stopwatch is available.

The Panamera's cargo area measures 15.7 cubic feet, but when you fold the backseat there's 44.6 cubic feet.

Under the Hood
The rear-wheel-drive Panamera S is powered by a 4.8-liter V-8 that makes 400 horsepower and 369 pounds-feet of torque. The engine teams with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and Porsche says S models can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds on the way to a top speed of 175 mph. All-wheel-drive 4S models feature the same engine and transmission, but are quicker to 60 mph (4.8 seconds, according to Porsche).

The all-wheel-drive Turbo model features a twin-turbo 4.8-liter V-8 that pumps out 500 hp and 516 pounds-feet of torque. It also uses Porsche's seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and cuts the zero-to-60-mph time to 4 seconds. Its top speed increases to 188 mph.

Safety
Standard safety features include antilock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front seats, front knee airbags, side curtain airbags, rear-seat side-impact airbags and an electronic stability system.

Lincoln MKS 2010

Vehicle Summary
The Lincoln MKS luxury sedan competes with the Acura RL, Infiniti M and Cadillac STS. Lincoln has at least one advantage going in: The MKS is based on the Ford Taurus, a car whose full-size dimensions mean more interior room than most of the midsize offerings in the luxury-sedan segment.

Vehicle Overview
The Lincoln MKS luxury sedan competes with the Acura RL, Infiniti M and Cadillac STS. Lincoln has at least one advantage going in: The MKS is based on the Ford Taurus, a car whose full-size dimensions mean more interior room than most of the midsize offerings in the luxury-sedan segment.

New for 2010
The Lincoln MKS gets Ford's newest V-6 engine: a twin-turbocharged, direct-injected V-6. Other updates include an updated Sync system, available adaptive cruise control and a self-parking system.

Exterior
It's difficult to tell the MKS is related to the Taurus, as Lincoln has done quite a bit to differentiate its version. Styling elements include Lincoln's familiar waterfall grille, cut by a vertical strip with Lincoln's crossbar logo. The thin, horizontal headlights look a lot like the ones on an Acura TL.

Around back, the taillights flow toward a high bumper. There are chrome elements on the window frames, door sills and outlines on the lower air dam. The EcoBoost MKS features a unique grille, side rocker panels and a rear spoiler.

* Available 18-, 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels
* Keyless-entry keypad
* Capless refueling system
* Fog lamps
* Automatic high-intensity-discharge headlamps
* Dual chrome exhaust
* Optional dual-panel sunroof
* Optional adaptive headlights

Interior
Inside, the MKS' interior comes with lots of leather; it covers the seats, door panels and dashboard. The center controls flow seamlessly toward a center tunnel that supports the gearshift and two independently adjustable armrests. For 2010, an updated Sync system provides real-time traffic, turn-by-turn navigation, and news and sports updates.

The MKS' passenger volume totals 105.9 cubic feet. That beats the Cadillac STS (102.9), Acura RL (99.1) and Infiniti M (105.2). The difference is most noticeable in the backseat.

* Leather seating surfaces, shifter and steering wheel
* Powered tilt/telescoping steering wheel
* Dual-zone automatic climate control
* Ford Sync system
* Heated front and rear seats
* Ventilated/cooled front seats
* Optional voice-activated navigation
* Optional THX 14-speaker surround-sound stereo
* Optional adaptive cruise control and self-parking system

Under the Hood
The MKS' 3.7-liter V-6 is a unique engine, not found on the Ford Taurus. It works with a six-speed automatic transmission. For 2010, the MKS gets a new EcoBoost, twin-turbocharged, direct-injected V-6 powertrain. The engine has the power output of a 4.6-liter V-8, but with V-6 fuel economy. According to Ford, the EcoBoost V-6 will achieve 16/25 mpg city/highway. The EcoBoost powertrain comes standard with all-wheel drive.

* 273-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 with 270 pounds-feet of torque
* 355-hp, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 with 350 pounds-feet of torque
* Six-speed automatic transmission
* Available front- or all-wheel drive

Safety
Ford's Sync system also features a 911-assist feature that connects the vehicle's occupants to an emergency operator when an airbag deploys.

* Side curtain airbags
* Traction control
* Antilock brakes
* Electronic stability system
* Reverse-sensing system
* Optional rearview camera

Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2010

Vehicle Summary
With the most dramatically changed face since its adoption of circular headlights 15 years ago, Mercedes-Benz's redesigned E-Class sedan boasts a long list of new safety technologies and luxury features. Once all variants hit the showroom, the E-Class will be available with four engines, rear- or all-wheel drive, three suspensions and two luxury orientations.

Vehicle Overview
With the most dramatically changed face since its adoption of circular headlights 15 years ago, Mercedes-Benz's redesigned E-Class sedan boasts a long list of new safety technologies and luxury features. Once all variants hit the showroom, the E-Class will be available with four engines, rear- or all-wheel drive, three suspensions and two luxury orientations.

Major variants include the V-6 E350 and the V-8 E550. All-wheel-drive 4Matic versions of all three will be available before the end of 2009, as will be a high-performance E63 AMG. Expect an E-Class wagon to arrive as well. In 2010, Mercedes will build an E350 Bluetec with a high-mileage diesel engine.

Competitors include the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Infiniti M.

Exterior
Though it retains certain basics — namely the quad headlights, lined-and-split grille and hood ornament — the new E-Class charts as radical a departure from its predecessor as Mercedes' entry-level C-Class did two years ago. The headlights have slot-like inboard bezels not unlike Lexus' competing GS sedan, while the outboard portions resemble those on the C-Class. Eyebrow-like fog lights sit in the three-piece lower air dam. In comparison, the taillights seem much more reserved.

Seventeen-inch alloy wheels are standard. The E350 has oval exhaust pipes; a Sport package adds 18-inch wheels and trapezoidal pipes, among other things. Trapezoidal pipes come standard on the E550. Mercedes says the car's aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient 4 percent better than the old E-Class, trump all other luxury sedans in the world.

Interior
The dashboard's layout mirrors that of Mercedes' GLK SUV, with an attached housing connecting the gauges to a center information display. Mercedes' knob-based Comand interface includes primary controls at hip level, ahead of the center armrest, like the systems in the C-Class and flagship S-Class.

Uplevel options include massaging, bolster-adjustable seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped dash and a panoramic moonroof. Mercedes says the new car's trunk is roughly the same size as its predecessor's — an impressive 15.9 cubic feet, which ties the A6 and beats the 5 Series, M and most other contenders. Optional folding rear seats no longer require you to flip the cushions forward first, a necessary step in the previous E-Class.

Under the Hood
The E350 carries a 268-horsepower V-6, while the E550 has a 382-hp V-8; both engines carry over from last year. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional. Mercedes' E63 AMG uses a larger 507-hp V-8. In 2010, expect a diesel-powered E350 Bluetec to deliver the lineup's best gas mileage.

All four engines use a seven-speed automatic transmission. Last year's floor-mounted shifter has been replaced with a column shifter, much like in the S-Class and several Mercedes SUVs.

The standard adaptive suspension alters shock-absorber settings to react to changing road conditions. A sport-tuned version with more dynamic settings is optional. All-wheel-drive models include Mercedes' Airmatic air suspension with driver-adjustable comfort and sport settings.

Safety
Besides antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system, the E-Class has nine standard airbags. Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, also standard, cinches up seat belts, repositions seats and attempts to close the windows and moonroof if it senses an imminent accident. A standard Attention Assist system measures steering behavior and other parameters to intuit driver fatigue. If it does, it emits audible and visual warnings.

Optional automatic high-beam headlights can vary their angle to illuminate 220 to 984 feet of pavement, depending on whether an onboard camera senses any cars ahead. Other options include blind-spot and lane departure warning systems, night vision assist with specific provisions to highlight pedestrians, and automatic emergency braking if forward radar detects an unheeded obstruction.

E63 AMG
Hot on the heels of Mercedes' launch of its new E-Class sedan, the automaker's high-performance division, AMG, has produced its own variant of the midsize luxury sedan. Dubbed E63 AMG, it features a high-powered V-8 engine, chassis modifications and revised styling inside and out. It hits dealerships in fall 2009.

The E63 AMG is powered by a 6.3-liter V-8 engine that produces 518 hp and 465 pounds-feet of torque. The V-8 teams with a seven-speed automatic transmission, and Mercedes says the sedan can sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.

The sport sedan features an adaptive suspension called AMG Ride Control. The suspension uses front steel springs and rear air springs, and the dampers are varied automatically based on the driving situation. The suspension also includes three modes — Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus — to suit the driver's preference. Additional changes include a quicker steering ratio and an AMG brake kit.

Exterior styling changes include wider front fenders, more aggressive front and rear aprons, larger rocker panels, tinted headlights, unique chrome tailpipes and 18-inch alloy wheels. Cabin enhancements include AMG sport seats, a sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, an AMG-specific instrument panel and stainless steel pedals. Attention Assist, a system designed to tell when the driver is tired, is standard.

The optional AMG Performance Package increases the top speed to 186 mph and equips the car with a firmer suspension, a locking rear differential, a three-spoke steering wheel and 19-inch rims. Back to top

Scion tC 2010

Vehicle Summary
While other cars in Scion's lineup have funky, boxy designs, the tC coupe has always been the most conventional. It competes with small cars like the Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra. The tC uses a 161-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. A wide variety of safety features are standard.

Vehicle Overview
While other cars in Scion's lineup have funky, boxy designs, the tC coupe has always been the most conventional. It competes with small cars like the Chevrolet Cobalt, Ford Focus and Nissan Sentra. The tC uses a 161-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. A wide variety of safety features are standard.

New for 2010
There are no significant changes for the 2010 model year.

Exterior
The tC looks more aggressive than its Toyota siblings, bearing more resemblance to an Audi coupe than any of its competitors. It's 174 inches long, making it shorter than the Cobalt, Focus and Sentra, and is roughly the same height as the Cobalt. It's 3 or 4 inches shorter than the Focus and Sentra.

* Hatchback body style
* Sunroof covers first and second rows
* Automatic headlamps
* Optional front and rear spoilers
* 17-inch wheels standard, 18-inch wheels optional
* Nautical Blue Metallic replaces Blue Ribbon Metallic

Interior
Overall, the Scion tC's interior has a nice mix of textures and a rich appearance for its price.

* 160-watt Pioneer audio system with iPod connectivity and auxiliary port
* 60/40-split rear seat has three-point seat belts and head restraints for three occupants
* Standard air conditioning
* Standard cruise control
* Standard power locks, windows and keyless entry

Under the Hood
The tC is powered by an all-aluminum, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 161 hp and has variable valve timing.

* Standard five-speed manual transmission
* Optional four-speed automatic

Safety
The tC has a wide variety of standard safety features, including:

* Four-wheel antilock brakes
* Seat-mounted side-impact airbags
* Side curtain airbags for first and second rows
* Driver's knee airbag
* Electronic brake-assist

Subaru Forester 2010

Vehicle Summary
The Subaru Forester, a successful small SUV/wagon since 1998, was redesigned last year. This generation is larger and more similar to all the other car-based compact SUVs out there, including the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V. It seats five people and has standard all-wheel drive.

Vehicle Overview
The Subaru Forester, a successful small SUV/wagon since 1998, was redesigned last year. This generation is larger and more similar to all the other car-based compact SUVs out there, including the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V. It seats five people and has standard all-wheel drive.

New for 2010
There are no significant changes to the 2010 Forester.

Exterior
Where previous Forester models looked more like tall wagons than SUVs, the newer Forester more closely resembles a traditional SUV. The Forester is 179.5 inches long and 70.1 inches wide.

Ground clearance is 8.9 inches. Fog lights are optional, and turbo versions are distinguished by a hood scoop that funnels cooling air into the intercooler just under the hood.

* Roof rails standard
* Chrome exhaust tips on Limited and Premium
* 16-inch wheels standard on 2.5 X models
* 17-inch wheels standard on all other trims
* Rear spoiler on 2.5 XT Premium and Limited
* Standard rear-window wiper

Interior
The door openings are large, and the rear window is larger than on the previous Forester. A center armrest is standard for the backseat, and a retractable center tray is optional.

* Standard MP3 jack
* Standard sliding armrest
* Standard 60/40-split folding rear seats
* Standard tilt steering column (telescoping added to 2.5 XT Limited and Premium)

Under the Hood
Foresters are powered by a choice of 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engines and either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

The transmissions come with different all-wheel-drive systems. According to Subaru, the automatic comes with Variable Torque Management, which shifts power to the front and rear axles by monitoring throttle position, battery voltage, generator rpm, wheel speed, brake status, lateral g-force and automatic transmission fluid temperature. The manual Forester has a simple viscous coupling that's reactive rather than proactive.

* 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 170 pounds-feet of torque
* 224-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 226 pounds-feet of torque
* Hill start assist for manual transmission

Safety
A rollover sensor can deploy the side curtain airbags to protect occupants and prevent their ejection in the case of a rollover.

Safety equipment includes:

* Side-impact torso airbags for front occupants
* Side curtain airbags that protect front and backseat occupants against head injury
* Active head restraints standard for front seats
* Antilock brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control standard on all trim levels

2010 Saab 9-3X

The New York auto show will serve as the North American debut of Saab's new 9-3X. In the vein of Volvo's XC70 wagon and Subaru's Outback wagon, Saab's 9-3X is "a rugged all-rounder designed to take outdoor enthusiasts to the start of their adventure," according to the Swedish company. And with more people feeling the need to step down from large SUVs and crossovers, the 9-3X wagon appears to be on the right track.

Its styling says "take me slightly off-road," with front and rear bumpers, side skirts and flared wheel arches finished in a dark gray, grained material intended to give better protection should the 9-3X owner take the car off the beaten path and encounter mud or loose stones. The car also features skid plates with a matte-aluminum finish, front and rear.

The 9-3X backs up its tough looks with a 1.4-in.-higher ride height and Saab's high-tech Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system, which we first saw on last year's limited-edition Turbo X. This active system uses an electronically controlled Torque Transfer Device (TTD) to vary power between the front and rear axles. The rear axle also comes standard with a limited-slip differential.

The 9-3X will come to the U.S. with Saab's tried-and-true 2.0-liter dohc turbocharged 4-cylinder with 207 bhp. Both a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 6-speed automatic transmission will be offered.

Saab says the 2010 9-3X, which was developed and will be manufactured at Saab's Trollh?ttan, Sweden, headquarters, should go on sale in the U.S. by the fourth quarter of 2009. Prices will be announced later this year.

2010 Ford Taurus

The Ford Taurus sedan was criticized for being too conservative and boring when it was redesigned and introduced as the Ford Five Hundred for the 2003 model year. When sales suffered, Ford went back to the Taurus name for 2008 and spiffed the car up with some minor freshening. But that didn't change its overly conservative looks. In spite of its new name, or rather a return to the old name, it was still a staid family car with a high seating position and a tall roof.

Now, Ford is aiming to turn the Taurus into sportier, more attractive car that can be the company's flagship.

The 2010 Ford Taurus has a lower, sportier design. The roof line was dropped three inches and the driving position was lowered two inches. The exterior design is more interesting, with a new three-bar grille, shorter front and rear overhangs, a wedge shape defined by the beltline, and a rear end influenced by the Ford Interceptor concept shown in Detroit in 2007.

The Taurus continues on the D3 platform developed by Volvo and also used for the Lincoln MKS sedan. That's good news because it's a solid platform.

The Taurus is expected to be sportier than the Lincoln, however, thanks to a new rear suspension design and larger brakes. The Taurus uses a suspension configuration called SR1, which Ford says provides a superior balance between cornering and handling, reduces weight and enables the use of 19- and 20-inch wheels, though 17s and possibly 18s will also be offered.

The 2010 Ford Taurus will continue with a choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and it'll come in the familiar SE, SEL and Limited trim levels.

The standard engine will be Ford's proven 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. Ford's EcoBoost twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, which will make 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque in other products, will also be available, though not initially. All models will come with a six-speed automatic transmission, but SEL and Limited models will add Ford's SelectShift, which adds manual shift capability through the shifter or a pair of steering wheel paddles. SelectShift also includes a rev-matching feature to make downshifts smoother for performance driving.

The flagship and sportier design themes extend to the interior. Ford says the interior has some Mustang trim cues, and that the materials are worthy of a German luxury sedan. The center console is laid dramatically forward, flowing seamlessly into the center console.

Amenities and technologies will abound. Among the luxury options will be lumbar-massaging multi-contour front seats and Sony-brand audio. Technology features will include a voice-activated navigation system, Ford's Sync system, Ford's MyKey parental programmability and radar-based adaptive cruise control. MyKey will allow parents and fleet managers to activate a restricted driving mode that keeps all safety systems active and has a persistent Beltminder and an earlier low-fuel warning. It can also be set to limit top speed to 80 mph and sound warnings at 45, 55 and 65 mph.

The high-tech cruise system also includes collision warning with brake support. This system provides a warning when traffic ahead slows quickly and precharges the brakes, which can help reduce stopping distances.

But that's not all for high-tech safety features. Also available will be Ford's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) and Ford's new Cross Traffic Aler. BLIS uses radar modules in the rear quarter panels that monitor traffic in the blind spot zones. When detected, the blind-spot warning alerts the driver with lights in the side mirrors. We've found this feature useful on the Audi Q7, Range Rover, and other vehicles. Cross Traffic Alert uses the same radar modules to monitor traffic crossing behind when the vehicle is backing out of a parking space. It also warns the driver with lights in the side mirrors.

While the starting price of $25,995 isn't higher than the current Taurus, all those tech and safety features will certainly raise the price for a fully equipped model.


On Sale: Summer 2009
Expected Pricing: Starting at $25,995