It's rumored that Range Rover's upcoming Evoque is going to be offered with Ford's new 200-hp 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. According to Autocar prototypes of the baby Range Rover are currently being tested on Nürburgring with the Ford engine. Of course land Rover will not confirm the rumors.

The 2.0L EcoBoost is the same engine that is also going to be offered in the 2011 Ford Explorer, but with 240-hp instead of 200-hp.

The Range Rover Evoque will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show

Last week leaked shots of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS appeared online. It was our first look at the new "four-door coupe." Mercedes-Benz has now officially unveiled the 2012 CLS. The CLS was the first official four-door coupe that lead to other automakers jumping into the segment (VW CC, BMW Gran Coupe, etc).

"The new CLS points the way forward for the future perceptible de-sign idiom of Mercedes-Benz", explains Professor Gorden Wagener, head of de-sign at Mercedes-Benz. "At the same time it takes its inspiration from the great tradition of stylish, refined sportiness which has always been a feature of Mercedes coupés."

The new CLS builds upon the successful first generation (long hood, tightly-styled frame-less side windows and a dynamic roof sweeping back at an angle towards the rear.) The new headlights on the CLS are full LED headlights, which has a total of 71 LED's. The taillights also feature LEDs.

There is no word yet on the powertrains that we will get in the US. But it is expected that the CLS will get a 3.5L V6 as the base engine and CLS550 models will be powered by the twin-turbo 4.6L V8. The CLS AMG will also eventually be offered.

The 2012 CLS is going to be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in early October with sales starting in mid-2011.

Here's the latest spy video of the 2012 BMW M5 hitting the famous Nurburgring in Germany.

The 2012 M5 is expected in the second half of 2011. It's rumored to be powered by the an upgraded version of the turbocharged 4.4L V8 that powers the X5M and X6M. The official numbers haven't been released, but it's expected to have around 600 horsepower and 530 lb-ft. of torque.

Porsche has announced a new personalization program (Porsche Personalization Program) for its Panamera sedan.

The new program allows for owners to tweak the styling and performance of the Panamera. The top of the line, Panamera Turbo can be outfitted with a new Powerkit package that uses two new turbochargers and revised engine management to produce 40 more horsepower and 37 lb-ft. of torque, bringing the final totals to 540-hp and 553 lb-ft. The Powerkit package also includes Porsche's Sport Chrono Turbo Package and if the car is driven in Sport Plus mode the torque output is increased to 590 lb-ft. In Sport Plus mode the Panamera Turbo reaches 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds. The Powerkit package adds another $21,730 to the price of the Panamera Turbo.

The Sport Design Package is available on all Panameras and includes a unique, exterior color painted front fascia with widened black air intake grilles, separate side skirts and the standard, exterior color rear underbody apron with diffuser and fins. It adds an additional $4,950.

According to the LA Auto Show's Twitter page, Saab has confirmed that the 2012 Saab 9-4X crossover will debut at this year's show in November.

The Saab 9-4X shares its Theta platform with the Cadillac SRX. It's expected to be released sometime in the spring of 2011 as a 2012 model.

As seems to all ways happen now, photos of the 2011 Mercedes CLS have leaked out before the four-door coupe's official unveiling.

The guys over at eMercedesBenz managed to grab the first official press shots of the new CLS, which borrows styling cues from the Shooting Break concept. According to eMercedesBenz, when the 2011 CLS launches it will be available with either a 3.5L V6 or a twin-turbocharged 4.6-liter V8 with around 430 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque. The AMG version will be powered by the new twin-turbocharged 5.5L V8.

Expect more details and official photos soon...

Mini has kicked off its ad campaign for its new crossover, the four-door Countryman.

The Mini Countryman will be powered by either a 120-hp 1.6L or a 180-hp turbocharged 1.6L. Both engines can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive is only available on the 180-hp Cooper S Countryman.

BMW unveiled the Gran Coupe concept at the Beijing Auto Show in April and now according to BMW's development chief Klaus Draeger, BMW is going to build the concept.

The production version of the Gran Coupe is going to go head to head with other luxury four-door coupes such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Porsche Panamera. The model will be positioned close to the BMW 6 Series in both technology and pricing.

The Gran Coupe will launch in 2012, after the debut of the 6 Series coupe next year.

BMW has yet to officially unveil the next-gen M5, but we've seen several spy photos of the most powerful 5 Series. The newest photos show the sedan wearing even less camouflage.

Head over to 5post to see more of the photos.

Land Rover has unveiled the new 2011 LR2/ Freelander 2, which is now available in a more fuel efficient front-wheel-drive version. The new front wheel drive model will be the most fuel efficient Land Rover ever produced in large part due to the fact that it is also mated to a 2.2L turbocharged diesel engine. As of right now Land Rover has no plans to bring the front-wheel-drive version to the US or even a diesel version of its smallest model.

"The new Freelander 2 eD4 moves Land Rover into the hugely popular and fiercely contested two wheel-drive SUV market," said Land Rover managing director Phil Popham. "The European market for two-wheel drive SUVs represents 23 percent of the segment and we intend to compete strongly here.

"A 2WD option is just one way in which we are developing our vehicles' efficiency whilst adding to the Land Rover range and expanding our appeal to a broader group of customers. We will continue to make the 'world's finest all-terrain vehicles' for those customers who require 4WD but will also now offer an alternative."

Ford has officially sold Volvo to Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited (Geely) for $1.8 billion.

"Volvo is an excellent brand with a strong product line, and it has returned to profits after a successful restructuring. We are confident Volvo has a solid future under Geely's ownership," said Alan Mulally, Ford's president and CEO. "At the same time, the sale of Volvo will allow us to sharpen our focus on the Ford brand around the world and continue to deliver on our One Ford plan serving our customers with the very best cars and trucks in the world."

Under the agreement, Ford has not retained any ownership of Volvo, but will continue to supply Volvo with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components for differing periods of time.

Porsche proved that it could design a hot hybrid sports car with the 918 Spyder Concept at this year's Geneva Motor Show. Shortly after it was officially unveiled rumors started to circulate that Porsche would eventually produce it. Well it has officially received the green light from Porsche's board.

According to a statement from Porsche, "Reflecting the overwhelming response from the public and customers to the Concept Study, the Supervisory Board gave Porsche's board of Management the mission to develop a production model based on the car already presented."

The 918 Spyder Concept is powered by a 3.4L V8 that puts out more than 500 horsepower. The engine is also mated to two electric motors that are located at the front and rear axles that together put out an additional 218-hp. It can reach 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 198 mph. The concept can also travel up to 16 miles in full electric mode.

Audi is scheduled to officially unveil the A7 Sportback today, but that hasn't stopped the first official photos from being leaked out.

Audi's new four-passenger four-door coupe has stayed very close to the concept and is largely based on the next-generation A6.

Stay tuned for more details...

BMW has officially unveiled the all-new 2011 X3. The all-new X3 is larger, taller and wider than the current generation. It borrows styling cues from the new 5 and 7 Series models, but still manages to look somewhat similar to the current model.

Compared to the current generation the new X3 is half an inch taller, over 3 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider. In the US the X3 will be available either as the X3 xDrive28i, which is powered by a 3.0L inline six-cylinder with 240 horsepower or the X3 xDrive35i that is powered by the turbocharged 3.0L inline-six with 300 horsepower. The xDrive35i reaches 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 150 mph when its equipped with the optional Sport package. The engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new BMW X3 will arrive in US showrooms by the end of 2010.

Motor Trend is reporting that Maserati is currently working on a new smaller sedan that will go head to head with the BMW 5 Series/ M5, Mercedes CLS/AMG and Cadillac CTS/CTS-V. The new sedan will be smaller than the current Quattroporte and should debut sometime in 2014 as a 2015 model.

The new sedan would strengthen Maserati's brand visibility and make it more relevant in its luxury segment. The sedan would start just above $68,000, which would put it around the price range of the V8 models from BMW, Jaguar and Mercedes. The top model would cost about 20 percent more.

A new Quattroporte is planned for 2013.

Patent drawings of the upcoming VW Jetta Coupe have surfaced, which provides more evidence that VW is indeed going to release a coupe version of the new Jetta.

VW unveiled the New Compact Coupe Concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year and as these drawings show, the Jetta coupe is going to remain pretty true to the concept. The production version gets a new grille and fog lamps. Out back the dual exhausts are now visible.

Head over to Carscoop to see all the drawings.

Following the introduction of the Alpina B7, BMW has released the official details of the 2011 Alpina B5 Bi-turbo, which is based on the 2011 BMW 5 Series.

The Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo s powered by a twin-turbo 4.4L V8 that puts out 507-hp and 516 lb-ft. of torque. The twin-turbo is mated to a ZF 8-speed sport automatic transmission. It reaches 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds and has a top speed of 191 mph.

In addition to the upgrades under the hood, the Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo also gets an upgraded suspension with shorter springs and unique control arms.

The speculation can finally end, BMW has released the first teaser of the upcoming M version of the 1 Series coupe. From here on out it will officially be referred to as the BMW 1 Series M Coupe.

BMW hasn't confirmed what will power the 1 Series M coupe, although it's been rumored to be the same twin-turbo in the 135, but with the horsepower being upgraded to around 335.

The 1 Series M Coupe will start arriving in dealers in the second quarter of 2011

Last week Mercedes unveiled the 2011 CL and now the first photos of the CL63 and CL65 AMG models have leaked onto to the internet.

The CL63 AMG is powered by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 with 544-hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. It also rides on 19-inch wheels. The more powerful CL65 AMG is powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 biturbo that puts out 630-hp and 737 lb-ft of torque.

Smart has given its small (very small) ForTwo a refresh, but here in the US the ForTwo hasn't really been flying off dealer lots, so will any of the changes help it?

The new ForTwo will be available this fall and gets new exterior colors, including a new matte finish. The the front spoiler, side skirts and the rear apron can also be painted in the body color on request. The front end also gets new LED daytime driving lights and new 15-inch alloy wheels are also part of the refresh.

Inside the interior has been redesigned featuring a full fabric-covered instrument panel, which has also been redesigned with new gauges.

Smart didn't change much in regard to the engines and transmissions, although the 60-h and 70-hp engines are now cleaner.

Although many buyers in the US loathe wagons, Volvo has continued to sell them. Fortunately the boring square Volvo wagons of the 80s and 90s have given way to much "sexier" models like the 2011 V60.

The 2011 V60 "sports wagon" is the wagon version of the S60 sedan. Volvo is going to offer the V60 with a series of engines, including a new 2.0L turbocharged direct-injected GTDi 4-cyl with 203-hp. There are also 1.6L GTDi engines and five-cyl turbodiesels being offered. The range topper is the 3.0L 304-hp engine that powers the T6 version that gets the wagon to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.

Volvo claims that no less than 90 percent of V60 production will be sold in Europe. It's not known what versions of the V60 US buyers will get.

Here's the first official shots of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class. Mercedes unveiled the revised coupe today, which gets upgrades on the outside and under the hood.

The most significant change is under the hood of the 2011 CL550, which gets a new 4.6L twin-turbo V8 that puts out 429-hp and 516 lb-ft. of torque. The 2010 model only put out 382-hp. Although the power has increased, the fuel economy has actually improved by 10-15 percent. The CL550 can now reach 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The CL600 is still powered by the 5.5L V12, which puts out 510-hp and 612 lb-ft. of torque.

While we wait patiently for the introduction of the BMW M5, BMW is going to release the M-Sport version of the new 5-Series and here are the first official photos thanks to 5post.

The M-Sport package adds an M-Sport front bumper, rear diffuser, sideskirts, dark chrome tail pipes and the choice between 18" double spoke 350M wheels or the 19" double spoke 351M wheels. Inside the M-Sport package comes with sport seats, an M steering wheel and anthracite roof liner.

The 5-Series M-Sport package will be available in October.

The current Mini models are in their second generation and although they've only been on the market for a few years, Mini has decided to give the family a refresh. Out front the Mini, Mini Clubman and Mini Convertible get a new front bumper for the 2011 model year. The new front bumper also meets increasingly stringent pedestrian protection requirement. Out back the family gets LED lights.

Under the hood the Mini lineup gets new gas and diesel engines. The base gas engine now puts out 122-hp and the turbo now puts out 180-hp. There are two versions of the 1.6L either a 90-hp or 112-hp version.

Aston Martin has unveiled a refreshed DB9 for the 2011 model year. Although its been around for seven years now, it hardly looks its age. The front of the DB9 gets a new front bumper with a re-shaped lower intake and a new bright finish grille. Other changes include 20-spoke alloy wheels, clear rear taillights and inside there is an optional Double Apex alloy finish.

Under the hood the DB9 is still powered by the same 470-hp 6.0L V12 engine that can be mated to either a six-speed 'Touchtronic' paddle-shift automatic or a six-speed H-pattern manual transmission. It has a top speed of 190 mph and reaches 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. A new adaptive damping system is now standard as well.

Production of the revised 2011 Aston Martin DB9 has already started and deliveries are expected to start next month.

Saab is said to be hard at work on a replacement for the aged 9-3. According to Autocar the next 9-3 will launch in 2012 as the Saab 93 and will mark the reintroduction of a hatchback version like the original 900.

The next Saab 93 is expected to rival the Audi A3 and will come in sedan, hatchback, convertible and wagon variants. The 93 will borrow some styling cues from the new 9-5 as well. It's not known what will power the new 93, but it's likely that they will not be GM sourced engines. According to sources Saab may have already signed a contract with BMW to supply diesel and gas engines that are going to also be used in the upcoming Mini Countryman.

BMW has unveiled the 2011 Frozen Gray M3 Coupe, which features matte-gray metallic paint, which is a silk matte clear coat that has been applied over the Space Gray Metallic base coat. The special model is still powered by the same 414-hp 4.0L V8. When the engine is mated to the M Double Clutch Transmission it reaches 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, but if you prefer to switch the gears yourself, the 6-speed manual takes 4.7 seconds.

The available Competition Package adds 19' wheels and a reduced ride height of 10mm.

The Frozen Gray M3 starts at $77,600.

VW has officially unveiled the new 2011 Jetta, which will start around $16,000 when it goes on sale this October in the US.

The new 2011 Jetta gets new styling that brings it more inline with the rest of the new VW lineup. It features a longer wheelbaase and overall length to give it class leading legroom. in The US the Jetta will be available with four engines, which includes the 2.0L turbodiesel. The additional engines will be the 2.0, 2.5 R5, and as of 2011, the 2.0 TSI.

According to the latest rumors, Mini is working on an even bigger crossover than the upcoming Countryman.

Auto Express, Mini is working on a seven-seater version of the Countryman that will be aimed to steal sales from the Nissan Qashqai in Europe.

Dr. Wolfgang Armbrecht, global head of MINI brand management, recently stated, "We could take the wheelbase from 2.60m to around 2.70m."

The Mini Beachcomber Concept that was shown in Detroit early this year has also reportedly been given the green light.

VW has released a new set of photos of the 2011 Phaeton.

The new Phaeton gets a new face that is similar to that of the rest of the new VW lineup. The front end now has standard bi-xenon headlights with LED cornering lights. It's offered with two wheelbases and two different rear seat options (three seat bench or two individual seats).

A new optional front camera actually reads traffic and speed limit signs and displays them in the instrument cluster. The Phaeton will be available with V6, V8 and W12 engines when it becomes available in Europe in June and China in August.

The all-new 2011 VW Passat is set to have its official debut at the Paris Motor Show, but here is the first leaked photo of the new sedan from a German brocure..

The 2011 Passat is going to borrow styling cues from the rest of the updated VW lineup, like the new Golf and Polo.

The new Passat is expected to be powered by the same range of diesel and gas engines when it debuts in October.

VW has taken the wraps off the 2011 Polo sedan in Moscow. This is the first time that VW has ever created a model specifically for the Russian market.

The 2011 Polo sedan is powered by a 1.6L engine with 103-hp that can be mated to either a five-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Polo sedan is expected to make its debut in the US within the next year.

Aston Martin has finally announced the pricing for the V12 Vantage that will be going on sale in the US later this year. If you're one of the lucky ones expect to pay at least $179,995.

The V12 Vantage is powered by a 6.0L V12 that puts out 510-hp and 420 lb-ft. of torque. It reaches 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 190 mph.

If you want even more the V12 Vantage Carbon Black model starts at $194,995.

Spy photographers recently caught a Lotus Exige prototype that had widened wheel arches, increased cooling and an engine that sounded like that of the Evora. According to sources the prototype was being powered by the same Toyota 3.6L V6 that also powers the Evora.

A V6 in the Exige would add a lot of bulk, but it would also bring more power than the current four-cylinder. But is it the right move, since the 3.5L in the Evora produces 276-hp compared to the four-cylinder engine in the Exige S that puts out 257-hp? not a huge difference considering the added weight gain of the V6.

Jaguar has finally given the F-Type roadster the green light. The concept XK180 was our first preview of the F-Type back in 1998, but the model was never produced due to Jaguar's financial troubles. But now that Jaguar is now owned by Tata the project is back on.

"We have a new momentum. There is so much potential," said Jaguar Land Rover chairman Ralf Speth. "A new sports car is coming."

Right now the model is in the clay model stage, but according to the latest reports it will look like a smaller XK with design elements from the rest of the Jaguar range. It's not yet known what will power the F-Type, which will go head to head with the Porsche Boxster.

It looks like we have two shots of the upcoming 2011 VW Jetta. A forum member at GM Inside News posted two photos of the next-generation Jetta driving around in Detroit.

Even though there is a fake emblem on the trunk, it's obvious that the two black prototypes are the new Jetta.

Expect to see the new Jetta debut later this year with sales starting early next year.

The BMW 5-Series GT has been on the market a few months, but sales have failed to take off or at least to a level that BMW had hoped. BMW executives are now admitting that they may have launched with the wrong model mix. At launch the 5-Series GT was only available with rear-wheel-drive and a V8 engine (550GT).

"The V-8 was probably not the right car to launch it with," said Rich Brekus, BMW's general manager of sales for North America.

Jim O'Donnell, BMW's North American boss, recently stated that BMW was "too ambitious with the 550 GT."

An all-wheel-drive model is going to launch next month and a six-cylinder in the fall.

Since its launch BMW has sold 1,143 units.

Porsche has yet to release an official press release about the pricing for the all-new 2011 Cayenne, but if you head over to its US website, the pricing is all there. The 2011 Cayenne, which will be on sale soon starts at $46,700 for the base 3.6L V6 model. The 4.8L V8 S starts at a much higher $63,700, while the Cayenne S hybrid model starts at $67,700.

The base Cayenne is powered by a 300-hp 3.6L V6 mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The Cayenne S is powered by a 400-hp 4.8L V8 and the Cayenne hybrid combines a supercharged 333-hp 3.0L V6 with an electric motor for a total 380 horsepower. The top dog is the Cayenne Turbo with its 500-hp 4.8L twin-turbocharged V8 that starts at $104,800.

There have been rumors that BMW is going to bring a diesel powered 5 Series to the US, but now the rumors have been confirmed. Inside Line has received confirmation that a diesel-powered 5 Series is going to be offered in the US.

The BMW official did not give any other details other than saying that the 5 Series diesel will be one of two diesels added to the US lineup. Now if we only knew what the other vehicle will be...

Volvo has announced the pricing for the all-new 2011 S60 sedan that now starts at $37,700 plus an $850 destination fee. The S60 undercuts a comparably equipped BMW 335i xDrive by $7,150 and the Mercedes-Benz C350 by $1,765.

"The all-new S60 has been a long time coming," said VCNA President and CEO, Doug Speck, "but it's been worth the wait. With 300 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, its stunning design and Volvo's latest technology, it's the kind of car that will put a smile on any driving enthusiast's face." Today's pricing announcement gives the competition pause for thought. "When you consider you can own an extremely well-equipped 2011 Volvo S60 for only $41,400, and that you will pay nothing to repair or maintain the all-new S60 for 5 years or 60,000 miles, it really becomes a no-brainer," continued Speck.

The 2011 S60 is powered by a turbocharged inline six-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. of torque. It reaches 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph.

Yet another bomb scare in New York City, but this one is a little different. Yesterday a "funky looking" BMW SUV was parked outside of the Museum of Natural History in the Upper West Side of NYC. A passer by called the police after noticing the SUV was parked outside the entrance to the museum and that it was running unattended.

The "funky looking" SUV was actually the next-generation BMW X3 that was covered in camouflage. It seems that Martin Birkmann, a BMW brand manager and test driver was enjoying a picnic in Central Park with his girlfriend, but pressed the wrong button on the key fob to the prototype to remotely turn off the engine. The NYPD bomb squad ended up smashing the rear and side passenger windows of the X3.

When Land Rover launches the production version of the LRX this fall it will it will launch with a front-wheel-drive variant. Land Rover initially ruled out creating a front-wheel-drive LRX, but due to the growth of the front-wheel-drive segment, Land Rover was forced to.

The front-wheel-drive version will not be available at launch, instead it will follow "shortly after" the four-wheel-drive version is launched.

Land Rover has yet to announce what the official name for the "coupe SUV" will be.

Aston Martin has announced plans to bring the V12 Vantage to the US, which is good news especially if you can actually afford it.

The V12 Vantage is powered by a 6.0L V12 engine that puts out 510-hp and 420 lb-ft. of torque. It reaches 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 190 mph.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez said: "This is the ultimate performance interpretation of the Vantage range, combining our most agile model with our most powerful engine. It represents the definitive Aston Martin driving experience; providing spectacular performance to ensure a dynamically thrilling drive in a highly exclusive package."

Aston Martin is also going to release limited Carbon Black special edition, which is painted iCarbon Black metallic paint with a subtle metallic twist to create a deep rich patina; painstakingly created through a hand painting process taking 50 man hours. The iconic Aston Martin side strake has been fashioned from real carbon fibre backed by a black mesh and complimented with gloss black 10 spoke diamond turned alloy wheels. A bright finished grille and front parking sensors (normally an option) complete the exterior detailing. Inside, owners will be greeted to swathes of Obsidian Black leather highlighted with a contrast silver coarse stitch.

If you're lucky enough to afford this beauty you can put your order in now. Deliveries are expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Porsche and Aston Martin have done it, but Ferrari's CEO, Amedeo Felisa is saying that Ferrari will not follow its rivals by making a four-door sedan.

"As Enzo [Ferrari, company founder] would say, we will never do four doors," said Felisa. "And we will keep this tradition."

Ferrari also stated before that it would not make a hybrid or use start-stop technology on its cars, but Felisa had this response, "Hybrid was forced on us by regulation, there is no regulation forcing us to do four doors."

"Frankly speaking no-one is asking for a four-door Ferrari. If you want a four door Ferrari we have a Maserati."

The awesome Aston Martin One-77 was recently caught driving around in London.

The One-77 is powered by a 7.3L V12 that puts out more than 700-hp. It reaches 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed over 200 mph. Only 77 units are going to be produced. Unfortunately the car is out of the price range for most since it's going for $2 million bucks.

Over the weekend Audi unveiled the R8 GT, which is an even more powerful, but lighter R8.

The R8 GT is powered by the 5.2L V10 that now puts out 560-hp up from 525. It propels the R8 from 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds and reaches 124 mph in 10.8 seconds. The R8 GT also has a top speed of 198 mph.

Engineers were able to trim 220 lbs from the weight of the R8 by using a thinner glass windshield and lightweight polycarbonate for the rear windows. Carbon fiber was also used for the rear hatch and rear bumper to save even more weight.

Only 333 R8 GTs will be produced and in Germany it goes for €193,000. Audi hasn't announced how many, if any at all will be sent to the US.

Mitsubishi, Citroen and Peugeot have announced a partnership based around Mitsubishi's newest crossover, the ASX (RVR in Japan). The partnership involves Mitsubishi supplying the platform of the ASX to Citroen and Peugeot so that the automakers can use it as the basis for their own crossovers.

The European automakers will use the same platform as the ASX, but their models will have different bodies and use their own engine. Peugeot and Citroen will use a 1.6L HDI diesel engine.

The partnership should move an additional 50,000 units per year.

Like the long wheelbase BMW 5 Series that was unveiled last week, Mercedes has unveiled the long wheelbase E-Class L, which will only be sold in the Chinese market.

Mercedes claims that the new E-Class L has an extra 14 centimeters of legroom in the rear compared to the standard E-Class. The E-Class L will launch with a choice of two gasoline engines the E 260 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY and the E 300. Both engines are mated to automatic transmissions.

BMW has unveiled the Concept Gran Coupé at this year's Beijing Motor Show. The Concept Gran Coupé is BMW's take on the increasingly popular four-door coupe.

The four-door concept features coupe-like proportions and a body height that is flatter than the BMW 5 Series or 7 Series sedans. The concept also features LED lights on the front and rear and frameless doors to enhance the over look.

Since BMW is one of the few luxury automakers that hasn't released a four-door coupe, it's a possibility that something like this concept could eventually be released.

VW is going to try it again. The original VW Phaeton was introduced in 2003 without that much success here in the US, but VW remains determined to take the brand up-market.

For 2011 the Phaeton gets a new front end with LED lights and styling that brings it inline with the current VW design DNA. The rear end gets more subtle changes with new LED light clusters and a redesigned bumper. There are also new 18-inch alloy wheels.

Under the hood buyers have the choice of six, eight and twelve cylinder engines. The Phaeton is also available in standard and long wheelbase versions.

The new Phaeton is eventually expected to return to the US, but it has yet to be officially confirmed.

It was reported last month that Mercedes-Benz is working on a shooting break version of its next CLS and here it is at least in concept form. The Shooting Break concept is going to be officially unveiled at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show.

Mercedes-Benz describes the concept as "a further insight by Mercedes designers into the possible future development of the Coupé concept."

The concept also previews a new 3.5L V6 with 306 horsepower.

"The Shooting Break concept car is based on the great tradition of a stylish, cultivated sportiness which has always characterised the great Mercedes Coupés, and it takes this unique legacy an exciting step further," explains Professor Gorden Wagener, chief designer at Mercedes-Benz. "At the same time it points the way towards the future design idiom of Mercedes-Benz."

BMW has announced the pricing for the all-new 2011 BMW 528i which starts at $45,425. The 2011 528i joins the 535i ($50,475) and 550i ($60,575) in July.

The 2011 528i is powered by a 240-hp 3.0L six-cylinder mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

"When we announced the pricing for the 535i and 550i earlier this month, people were thrilled with what great value they represented," said Jack Pitney, Vice-President of Marketing for BMW of North American. "With the 528i BMW is uniquely positioned to offer a full range of midsized luxury-performance Sedans that, true to the philosophy of EfficentDynamics, offer better performance and improved efficiency than their predecessors at prices that are even more competitive."

Audi has unveiled the extended-wheelbase version of the new 2011 Audi A8. The flagship model in the A8 lineup, the A8 L W12 quattro is powered by a 500-hp 6.3L 12-cylinder engine. All that power launches the large sedan from 0-62 mph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. According to Audi all that power doesn't mean that its going to suck down gas, since it gets 19 mpg (US) on the EU cycle.

The 500-hp engine isn't the only selling point of the 2011 A8 L. At just over 17 feet long, the A8 L has lots of room in the rear-seat area. The rear seats can be ordered as two separate power-adjustable seats that can be heated, ventilated and adjusted in a variety of ways: forward and back, seat cushion depth and seat back angle with top section adjustable separately. In between the two rear seats is an optional full length console that can come with a folding table and refrigerator.

According to sources BMW is not going to make a sedan version of the M3 when the next-generation arrives. Sources site unimpressive sales as the main reason that BMW is not going to produce another sedan version. When the previous M3 was out, US buyers demanded a sedan version of the M3, but sales have been disappointing.

If the sources are correct, the next-generation M3 will only be available as a coupe and convertible.

Thanks to a new smaller 1.6L engine and improved aerodynamics, Lotus has announced that the 2011 Lotus Elise has been rated at 46.7 mpg (US) on the European cycle. In addition to getting over 46 mpg, the 2011 Elise has just been certified with an outstandingly low emissions figure of 149g of CO2 / km which represents a reduction of 16% over the previous Lotus Elise S.

This means that the 2011 Elise has the lowest CO2 for its performance level for any gasoline sportscar in the world.

Even though the 2011 Elise gets great gas mileage and puts out very little emissions it still manages to reach 0-60 mph in six seconds.

It looks like the US is not going to get the 1.6L Elise, instead we will have to make due with the 190-hp 1.8L.

The rumors were true. Renault-Nissan and Daimler AG have announced a new alliance today that will involve sharing and cooperating on the development of diesel and gasoline engines. The new partners are also going to combine their efforts to develop a new platform for the Smart ForTwo, a new Smart four-seater and the next-generation Renault Twingo.

The partnership also involves Renault-Nissan supplying three and four-cylinder engines to Daimler for use in some Mercedes models. In return Daimler is going to provide gasoline and diesel engines that will be used in some Infiniti models.

Lastly Daimler will now hold a 3.1% stake in Renault and Nissan and the two partners will also hold a same stake in Daimler.

Aston Martin is going to compete in the 38th ADAC Nürburgring 24-hour race with the new four-door Rapide. The Rapide will be near-standard near-standard specification apart from mandatory changes required to compete, such as the interior trim removed to reduce weight, a re-tuned suspension and the addition of slick tires designed for track use.

The Rapide will be joined by the V12 Vantage, which is also only slightly modified for racing.

The race starts on May 15th.

It seems that the US is always getting screwed when it comes to automakers deciding not to bring some of their models here. Well it looks like Audi is going to be bringing the awesome Audi RS5 to the US sometime in mid-2011.

Automobile is reporting that the RS5, which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show last month is likely to arrive in the US by the summer of 2011. It will launch in European markets this October. The RS5 is powered by a 4.2L V8 with 450 horsepower.

Ford has announced today that it has finalized an agreement with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited to sell Volvo for $1.8 billion.

Ford is not going to retain any stake in Volvo since Volvo will be 100 percent owned by Geely. Ford will continue to supply Volvo with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components. Part of the sale also includes that Ford will provide engineering support, information technology and access to tooling for common components.

"Volvo is a great brand with an excellent product lineup. This agreement provides a solid foundation for Volvo to continue to build its business under Geely's ownership," said Alan Mulally, Ford's president and CEO. "At the same time, the sale of Volvo will allow us to further sharpen our focus on building the Ford brand around the world and continue to deliver on our One Ford plan serving our customers with the very best cars and trucks in the world."

The sale is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010.

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is the often forgotten model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Poor sales and an identity problem have plagued the model, but for 2011 the R-Class is getting a much needed facelift.

The front end of the 2011 R-Class gets new headlights, a larger grille and a revised hood. The rear gets less changes with new taillights and a revised bumper.

Check back for more details from the show this week.

BMW unveiled the Alpina B7 at this year's Chicago Auto Show and now BMW is going to unveil a second B7 model equipped with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The Alpina B7 xDrive will be available in either standard and long-wheelbase editions. The 2011 BMW Alpina B7 starts at $122,875 for the standard wheelbase and $126,775 for the extended wheelbase, but BMW has yet to announce the pricing for the xDrive models.

The Alpina B7 is powered by a 500-hp twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8.

Porsche unveiled the 918 Spyder hybrid concept at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month and now the automaker is trying to build a business case to put the two-seater into production.

Porsche is reportedly working with its global dealer network to put together a list of prospective buyers. If Porsche can get enough buyers for its new halo car, it would help build a business case to produce it. In 2000 Porsche did a similar thing with the Carrera GT when it approached dealers after the concept was unveiled at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show. Four years after its unveiling it was delivered to a few lucky buyers.

Porsche hasn't announced what the 918 Spyder would cost if it does get the green light, but it is expected to cost more than the Carrera GT.

Last week the first US-market Ferrari 458 Italia was auctioned off at a charity event for $530,000 in which the proceeds went to help relief efforts in Haiti. Transformers director Michael Bay was at the event where he acknowledged that the Ferrari 458 Italia would become the newest Autobot to join Transformers in the Transformers 3.

The Ferrari 458 Italia is powered by a 4.5L V8 that puts out 570-hp and 398 lb-ft. of torque. It's mated to a dual-clutch seven-speed transmission and reaches 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 202 mph.

VW is hard at work on the replacement for the Beetle, which will be previewed as a concept car at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the end of this year. According to sources the next Beetle is going to get a reworked chassis as it will share its drivetrain with the next Jetta. It's also expected to have a longer wheelbase and wider tracks, which should improve some of the complaints with the current model's interior.

In terms of styling, some insiders claim that the 2005 Ragster concept can be seen as a hint of what we can expect for the next Beetle. The design will continue to feature elements of the original Beetle with its rounded headlights and taillights and separate wings over each wheel, but the roofline is expected to be less rounded.

In the US the Beetle will be powered by the 170-hp 2.5L five-cylinder engine. A hybrid is also in the works.

J.D. Power and Associates has released the results of its 2010 long-term dependability study. The study measures problems with vehicles that are three-years old (2007 models). Overall dependability is determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score reflecting higher quality.

This year Porsche leads the overall nameplate rankings, followed by Lincoln, which improved by six rank positions from 2009. The rest of the top five nameplates are Buick, Lexus and Mercury.

Regarding specific models, Toyota took home the most awards with four segment awards, Honda took home three and Lincoln received two awards.

BMW has officially unveiled the wagon version of the new 5 Series. The 2011 5 Series Touring looks very close to the sedan, unlike the 5 Series Gran Turismo variant.

In Europe the 5 Series Touring gets two diesel and two gasoline engine choices. The least powerful is the diesel 520d Touring with 184-hp. The diesel 530d Touring puts out 245 horsepower. The two gasoline options are the 204-hp 523i Touring and the 306-hp 535i Touring. An eight-speed automatic transmission is optional with all of the engines.

Unfortunately it doesn't look like the US will be getting this new 5 Series wagon, instead we have to make due with the 5 Series Gran Turismo.

It had been rumored for a while that BMW was working on an M1 version of the 1 Series, but Inside Line received word from a source at the Geneva Motor Show that it isn't going to happen.

Instead the source said that if a more powerful 1 Series is released it will be a 135is like BMW has done with the Z4 and 3 Series coupe. So this fall it is expected that BMW will release a 135is that will be powered by the more powerful version of the twin-turbo N54 inline six-cylinder with a more aggressively tuned suspension.

Aston Martin officially unveiled the Cygnet Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. If it looks somewhat familiar to you, it's because the Cygnet is the result of a partnership with Toyota. The Cygnet is actually a Toyota iQ minicar that has been heavily modified by Aston Martin.

"Many of our customers have a need for a small car for urban and city use," said Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez. "The Cygnet Concept brings intelligence, innovation and artistry to the small car market. The Cygnet Concept represents the natural choice for those customers looking for a premium commuter car. Our past, our future and our backbone will always remain sports cars, but the Cygnet Concept will support this by offering our customers a greater degree of freedom in the urban context."

The Cygnet is expected to enter production at the end of this year or early next year.

The 2011 Alfa Romeo Guiletta has debuted at the Geneva Motor Show. The five-door hatchback features a new "Compact" architecture and will be available in five different models: two Quadrifoglio Verde versions fitted with the 235 HP 1750 TBi, two Distinctive versions with 170 HP 2.0 JTDM and a Distinctive version fitted with the 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo petrol.

The 2011 Alfa Romeo Guiletta will be available starting in May.

Ferrari has unveiled the 599 HY-KERS vettura laboratorio (experimental vehicle) at the Geneva Motor Show, which is based on the 599 GTB Fiorano equipped with an advanced new hybrid transmission.

In the concept the electric motor puts out more than 100 horsepower and is mated to the rear of the dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. It operates through one of the transmission's two clutches and engages one of the two gearbox primary shafts. Thus power is coupled seamlessly and instantaneously between the electric motor and the V12. The electric motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries that are flat and positioned below the floorplan of the car. This has resulted in an even lower center of gravity. The electric motor and batteries have also gotten rid of the traditional starter motor and battery.

Lamborghini has taken the wraps off the 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo 570-4 Superleggera, which is the new top model in the Gallardo lineup and is the successor to the Superleggera (Italian for superlight) that launched in 2007.

Compared to the Gallardo LP 560-4, the Gallardo Superleggera is 154 pounds lighter, which is largely thanks to the use of carbon-fiber on the exterior and interior of the car, which saved 88 lbs. The car is powered by a 5.0L V10, which puts out 570 horsepower. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds and reaches 124 mph in 10.2 seconds and has a top speed of 202 mph. The V10 engine is mated to the six-speed e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel paddles.

Audi unveiled the first e-tron electric concept supercar last fall in Frankfurt and now Audi has unveiled the A1 e-tron concept. The A1 e-tron is being labeled as a Mega City Vehicle with a powerful electric motor that provides zero-emission driving in the city. It's not a full electric vehicle since there is a Wankel engine on board that acts as the range extenders that recharges the battery. he driver can also turn the range extender on and off as necessary with the push of a button.

The electric motor, which powers the front wheels is rated at 61 horsepower, with peak power of 102-hp and 110 lb-ft of torque is continuously available and peak torque is 177 lb-ft. The electric motor is mated to a six-speed transmission. The concept accelerates from 0-62 mph in 10.2 seconds and has a top speed of more than 80 mph. The Audi A1 e-tron can drive up to 31 miles on the battery alone and the range extender engine provides an additional 124 miles of driving.

The first e-tron to come to market will be a sports car based on the R8 sometime in 2012 followed by a smaller model based off the upcoming R4, then finally the A1 e-tron will be available.

As expected, Audi has unveiled the A8 Hybrid "concept" at the Geneva Motor Show. Audi claims that the A8 has power like a big V6, but the fuel economy of a modest four-cylinder. It's powered by a 2.0L TFSI engine that is mated to an electric motor. The total output is 245 horsepower and 354 lb-ft. of torque. The hybrid can reach 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds and has a top speed of 146 mph, yet it manages to get 38 mpg on the EU cycle.

The A8 Hybrid can operate on fully electric power up to 40 mph and above that speed the combustion engine supplies all the power, while the electric motor supplies onboard users and recharges the battery.

Audi has labeled the A8 Hybrid Concept as a "near-production" concept car.

On the eve of the Geneva Motor Show, Porsche has unveiled a new concept car, the 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid concept.

The 918 Spyder concept looks like a new Carrera GT and is powered by a 500-plus horsepower V8 and electric motors on the front and rear axle with a total output of 218 horsepower. Porsche claims that the concept can reach 0-62 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 198 mph all while getting 78 miles per gallon.

The concept has four different drive modes, which are selectable by a button on the steering wheel. E-Drive mode runs the car under full electric mode, with a range of 16 miles. Hybrid mode uses both the electric motors and the gas engine as a function of driving conditions and requirements, offering a range from particularly fuel-efficient all the way to extra-powerful. Sport-Hybrid mode uses both the electric motors and gas engine with a focus on performance. In Race Hybrid mode the drive systems are focused on pure performance with the highest standard of driving dynamics on the track.

The 918 Spyder concept is the third hybrid model that Porsche is going to unveil at the show, alongside the Cayenne S Hybrid SUV with parallel full-hybrid drive, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car.

Details have been released about the new twin-turbo 5.5L V8 that is going to replace the 6.2L V8 in the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG this summer.

The new 5.5L V8, codenamed M157, is smaller than the outgoing 6.2L V8, but it produces more power and torque, while being more fuel efficient. It puts out 537 horsepower compared to 518-h and puts out 590 lb-ft of torque compared to 464 lb-ft. for the 6.2L. There will also be a performance package upgrade available that will increase the output to 571-hp. The new S63 AMG will reach 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and has a governed top speed of 155 mph. The performance package model has a top speed of 186 mph.

"With the new AMG V8 biturbo engine and the AMG SPEEDSHFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, we are confronting the challenges of the future and focussing on fuel consumption and exhaust emissions even more intensively than before. Our new high-performance engine shows that AMG occupies a leading position in terms of both efficiency and our brand commitment to "performance," says Volker Mornhinweg, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new 5.5L V8 is based on the upcoming twin-turbo 4.6L V8 that will also be offered later this year.

BMW has unveiled the its next hybrid model, the Concept 5 Series ActiveHybrid, which will be BMW's third hybrid after the ActiveHybrid X6 and ActiveHybrid 7 Series.

The 5 Series ActiveHybrid is powered by the straight-six gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, eight-speed automatic transmission, and electric drive. The electric motor develops a maximum output of 40kW and offers a boost function, supporting the gasoline engine in generating particularly dynamic drive power for an even more sporting driving experience in the car. The full hybrid system allows for all-electric driving in city traffic as well.

The BMW 5 Series ActiveHybrid will be unveiled alongside the new 5 Series Sedan at the Geneva Motor Show next week.

Ok here it is, the first official shots of the all-new 2011 Porsche Cayenne. If you hated the last one you will most likely not like this one either since it keeps the same basic shape, but with some updates that brings its styling more inline with the other Porsche models. It is 1.9 inches longer and has an extra 1.6 inches has been added to the wheelbase. The good news is that all models from the entry level Cayenne V6 to the 500-hp Cayenne Turbo have improved performance and are more fuel efficient.

The big news is the introduction of the Cayenne S Hybrid. The system combines the supercharged V6 with an electric motor and nets 380 horsepower and 427 lb-ft. of torque. The Cayenne S Hybrid can travel a short distance on electric power alone. The unique thing about the hybrid is that it has the ability to cruise at high speeds on electricity alone. The gasoline engine can be completely switched off at speeds up to 97 mph.

Non-hybrid models are more fuel efficient thanks to a weight reduction. The Cayenne S is 400 lbs lighter.

The entry level Cayenne is powered by a 300-hp 3.6L V6 mated to the new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission. The Cayenne S is powered by a 400-hp 4.8L V8 and the Cayenne Turbo is powered by a 500-hp 4.8L twin-turbocharged V8.

The Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo will go on sale in July with the rest of the models being introduced this fall.

Lotus has announced the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid concept which puts out over 400 horsepower via two electric motors and one small gas engine. Like the Chevy Volt, the Evora 414E Hybrid concept features a small engine that actually doesn't send power directly to the wheels. Instead the small 1.2L three cylinder engine recharged the lithium polymer battery pack that is responsible for powering the two electric motors. Each rear wheel has its own electric motor and puts out 204-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. The Evora 414E Hybrid also showcases a brand new technology from Lotus Engineering, a sports mode that simulates a 7 speed, paddle shift transmission that combines exceptional driver involvement for a hybrid sports car and optimized energy recuperation.

Dr Robert Hentschel, Director of Lotus Engineering said: "Innovation has always been at the heart of Lotus and is needed now more than ever. The Evora 414E Hybrid is the perfect demonstration of Lotus Engineering's core competencies: lightweight architectures, efficient performance, electrical and electronics integration and driving dynamics. The technology demonstrator represents an encapsulation of the advanced technologies that Lotus Engineering continues to develop to overcome the current environmental challenges facing the automotive industry and showcases the future direction that the sector is taking and why Lotus Engineering is perfectly placed to lead the technological development in this area."

Lotus has only released one teaser image of the concept. Expect more details next week...

Rolls Royce has let automobile refiner Kourosh Mansory individualize the Rolls Royce Ghost to create the Mansory Ghost. The Mansory Ghost is immediately distinguished by its Gold and Blue exterior. The exterior is mainly painted in blue with the gold accentuating the grille and side skirts.

The modifications are not only on the outside since the Mansory Ghost gets a bump in power to 720-hp up from 570-hp in the Ghost. The extra horsepower accelerates the car from 0-62 mph in 4.4 seconds.

Mini is going to debut its new Mini Connected system at the Geneva Motor Show. According to Mini the Mini Connected system is an all-new, world-first in-car entertainment solution. The system uses a USB interface to allow maximum integration of the iPhone into the in-car audio and infotainment system.

All the functions integrated in the Mini courtesy of the Apple iPhone are activated and controlled using the vehicle's own operating system.

The Mini Connected system will debut as an option on the 2011 Mini Countryman.

Maserati is going to unveil the Maserati Sport GT S "Awards Edition" at the Geneva Motor Show.

Six years after the initial launch of the Quattroporte, Maserati has decided to celebrate the success of the model with the Quattroporte Sport GT S "Awards Edition", which is based on the Quattroporte Sport GT S. The exterior of the "Awards Edition" is colored in a pearlescent metallic grey with a golden hue. It also features 20'' Multi Trident dark grey rims with satin finish with hand-polished brake callipers both at the front and rear.

The interior features Poltrona Frau leather and perforated Alcantara seats. The interior also features special brushed alumminium door sills and Piano Black satin-finish wood moldings.

The Quattroporte Sport GT S "Awards Edition" will be available in the UK as a special order in the second half of 2010, as model year 2011.

We're about a week away from the Geneva Motor Show, but images from the brochure for the 2011 Audi RS5 have already leaked onto the internet.

It's not yet known what will power the RS5, although its been rumored that a twin-turbo V8 will be used.

Stay tuned...

The Mercedes-Benz F800 Style concept is going to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Mercedes describes the F800 Style as a research vehicle that shows the future of premium automobiles with its efficient drive systems and emotive design. While that is true, what we're actually looking at here is a preview of what we can expect to see as the next-generation CLS.

The F800 Style seats five and features an all-new multi drive platform which accommodates electric drives with fuel cells (enabling ranges of almost 375 miles) as well as the use of Plug-in Hybrids that can drive for up to 18 miles solely on electricity.

"We are dedicated to reconciling our responsibility for the environment with practical customer utility in a fascinating automobile," says Dr. Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "The new F800 Style research vehicle combines this commitment to providing the leading innovative drive concepts with our traditional Mercedes strengths in the areas of design, safety, comfort, and outstanding performance."

VW has unveiled the CrossPolo, which is the fourth Polo model after the base Polo, Polo BlueMotion and Polo GTI. The five-door CrossPolo starts with the base Polo and beefs it up with a higher ride height (15 mm) and black plastic molding around the wheel arches, side sills, and bumpers. The CrossPolo also gets 17-inch alloy wheels and silver anodized roof rails.

The CrossPolo can be outfitted with a choice of three gas and three diesel engines, which can be mated to either a six-speed manual or optional seven-speed DSG transmission.

VW has announced that the Polo will be sold here, eventually, but hasn't committed to a date. The CrossPolo will arrive in VW dealers in Germany at the end of May right before sales start in the rest of Europe and Japan.

The latest 2011 Jaguar XKR that is set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show will be the fastest XK to date. The 2011 XKR will now be able to reach a top speed of 174mph up from 155mph in addition to the styling updates. There will also be two new optional performance and styling packs: Speed Pack and Black Pack that will be available on the XK and XKR.

The Speed Pack allows drivers to extend the top speed from 155mph to an electronically limited 174mph thanks to a unique engine and transmission recalibration. To maintain stability with the Speed Pack the coupe uses a revised front aerodynamic splitter and larger rear spoiler to provide increased balance and a reduction in lift. Every XKR with the Speed Pack will come with body-colored side sills and rear diffuser, and a chrome finish to the window surrounds, upper and lower mesh grilles, side Power Vents and boot lid finisher. Red brake calipers with a Jaguar 'R' logo sit inside 20-inch Kasuga alloy wheels.

The optional Black Pack is only available with the Speed Pack and is available in Ultimate Black, Polaris White or Salsa Red and features 20-inch gloss black Kalimnos alloy wheels.

The XKR Coupe featured at the Geneva Motor Show pairs both the optional Speed and Black Packs, which also sports optional Piano Black veneers on the dashboard and red brake calipers.

Bentley has released details on the 2011 Continental Supersports Convertible, which will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show. Bentley claims that the Continental Supersports Convertible is the "fastest and most potent drop-top Bentley ever." It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W12 that puts out 621 horsepower and 590 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic and puts the power to the ground via a rear-biased all-wheel drive system. It can reach 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 202 mph.

The 2011 Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible will be available this summer.

Lotus has released official photos and stats for the restyled 2011 Elise and Elise SC models.

For 2011 the Elise gets a new front end that is reportedly more aerodynamic, which helps the car achieve a four percent reduction in Coefficient of Drag (Cd). Outback the engine gets a new "twin-spine" engine cover and there is a new a more aggressive diffuser in addition to the re-sculpted rear bumper.

The Elise is powered by Toyota's 1.8L four-cylinder with 189 horsepower and 133 lb-ft. of torque. The Elise SC is more powerful with 218-hp and 156 lb-ft. of torque.

The 2011 Elise and Elise SC will be available this summer.

Following the introductions of the V8 powered Panamera S, the Panamera 4S and the Panamera Turbo models, Porsche has announced the addition of the V6 powered Panamera and Panamera 4 models.

The V6 powered Panamera models, which will be unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show in April, are powered by a 300-hp 3.6L V6 mated to the seven-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox.

The Panamera and Panamera 4 are going to start at $74,400 and $78,900, respectively.

Mini's newest and largest model, the Countryman is going to go on sale in the UK before it hits our shores early next year. Mini has announced that the Countryman will have a starting price of £16,000 when it goes on sale in the UK this September.

For £16,000 you can buy yourself the Countryman One, which has a measly 98 horsepower and takes 12.7 seconds to reach 0-62 mph. The more powerful Cooper model starts at £17,510 and the 184-hp Cooper S starts at £20,810. We will most likely only receive the Cooper and Cooper S models, when the Countryman goes on sale here. The UK also has two diesel powered options, the One D and Cooper D that start at £17,000 and £18,810, respectively. Only the Cooper D and Cooper S models are available with all-wheel-drive.

Peugeot has released full photos of the "5 by Peugeot" concept that is going to be unveiled next month at the Geneva Motor Show. The concept is said to provide a hint of the future design direction of Peugeot and the automaker's future ambitions in the large luxury vehicle segment.

The 5 by Peugeot is powered by Peugeot's HYbrid4 technology, which features a 2.0L engine in the front of the car that is mated to an electric motor that powers the rear wheels. The setup creates an all-wheel-drive setup and puts out a total 200 horsepower.

Expect the 5 by Peugeot to be the inspiration for the next 508.

Here are the first official photos of the 2011 BMW M3, which get's slight styling updates for the new year. The 2011 M3 gets restyled taillights and slight tweaks to the front fascia. For 2011 there is a new Competition (ZCP) Package that is available on the coupe and sedan. The package includes a 10 mm lowered suspension, 19x9" alloy wheels and a new EDC sport mode. The Competition Package adds $2,500 to the price of the M3.

The 2011 M3 is powered by a 420-hp 4.0L V8 that can be mated to either a six-speed manual or the double-clutch transmission. In Europe the M3 will now have start-stop technologyt that reduces emissions by 8%.

Porsche is set to debut the 911 GT3 R Hybrid at the Geneva Motor Show next month. But before you think this 911 hybrid is set up like the popular Prius, think again. Porsche has developed a flywheel system that is unlike the conventional battery-based electric systems that other hybrids use. The flywheel gathers kinetic energy during braking to supply power to two electric motors that are connected to the front wheels.

The flywheel can spin up to 40,000 rpm and is mounted where the passenger seat normally would be. The electric motors provide a burst of 161 horsepower to the front wheels, while the 480-hp 4.0-liter flat six-cylinder powers the rear wheels. The electric motors are engaged by pressing a button on the steering wheel. Porsche claims that the system provides better acceleration out of corners and during overtaking.

In addition to being unveiled next month in Geneva, the 911 GT3 R Hybrid will also be at the Nürburgring 24 Hours on May 15.

With all the news at the Chicago Auto Show today, it's a surprise to see that VW released the details for the next-generation Touareg a month early, before its debut at the Geneva Motor Show.

The 2011 Touareg looks similar to the current generation but body has been sculpted more for a bit more style. The front end of the Touareg gets the same treatment as the recently introduced Golf. One of the biggest complaints about the current generation was how overweight it is. Weight reduction was one of the main goals with the next generation so VW has lowered the body weight by 460 pounds.

In addition to the new styling and reduced weight, the new Touareg also gets a hybrid option. The hybrid combines the supercharged and direct injected 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor and an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2011 Volvo S60 is set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month. Volvo has already released photos of the new midsize sedan, but now we have even more and more details of what we can expect when it hits showrooms.

The all-new S60 is bigger than the model it replaces with a nearly 2.5-inch increase in wheelbase. This directly impacts rear leg room with a 2.0-inch increase.

Under the hood of the S60 T6 is a more powerful version of the engine in the XC60. The turbocharged 3.0L puts out 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. of torque. it only takes 6.2 seconds to reach 0-60 mph and has a top speed of 155 mph. All T6 models come standard with Volvo's all-wheel-drive system.

The S60 is also going to feature Volvo's City Safety system, which automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in time when the vehicle in front slows down or stops - or if he or she is driving too fast towards a stationary object. The system can lessen or even entirely avoid low-speed rear-end impacts at speeds up to 18 mph.

The 2011 S60 will arrive late 2010 in the US.

Here's your first official look at the 2011 Audi A1, which draws inspiration from the 2007 Metroproject Quattro.

The smallest car in the Audi lineup occupies a small space that is only 155.5 inches long, 68.5 inches wide and 56 inches tall. It is powered by a choice of two gasoline or two diesel engines. The two diesel engines are both 1.6L units with one putting out 90-hp and the other 105-hp. The two gasoline engine options are either a 1.2L or 1.4L unit with the smaller putting out 86-hp vs 122-hp for the larger engine. There is an optional seven-speed S tronic (dual clutch) transmission, but Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive is not being offered at launch.

Check out the really long press release after the jump. The 2011 A1 will officially be unveiled next month at the Geneva Motor Show.

Porsche has unveiled the 2011 911 Turbo S, which builds upon the 911 Turbo, but adds even more power thanks to two exhaust gas turbochargers. Power has been bumped up to 530 horspower adn 516 lb-ft of torque. The 3.8L engine is mated exclusively to the seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) dual clutch transmission.

In addition to the increased horsepower, the 911 Turbo S gets all high-tech components available only as options on the "regular" 911 Turbo, standard.

The 911 Turbo S reaches 0-62 mph in 3.3 seconds, 0-124 mph in 10.8 seconds, and has a top speed of195 mph. Porsche also claims that even though the 911 Turbo S has more power than the 911 Turbo, it doesn't consume more fuel.

The 2011 911 Turbo S will go on sale in the US later this year.

BMW has unveiled the refreshed 2011 X5, which gets new gas powered engines and a small facelift. Both of the gas engines in the X5 are new. The xDrive35i is now powered by the same single turbocharged N55 six-cylinder that is also available in most of the BMW range. It reaches 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds. The xDrive50i is now powered by the 400-hp twin-turbocharged 4.4L V8. It reaches 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. Both the gas engines are now mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The diesel xDrive35d doesn't get any changes under the hood for the new year.

On the outside the lower front fascia has been restyled with larger air intakes. The rear bumper also gets a slight restyle.

The 2011 BMW X5 will debut at the New York Auto Show in April and sales will start shortly after that.

The deal between Ford and China's Geely is almost complete. Geely is set to close the $2 billion deal for Volvo this month and Geely plans on running Volvo as a separate entity to protect its luxury image.

"We want to be careful not to damage the Volvo brand," said Freeman Shen, Geely's vice president for international operations. "We don't want the image of a luxury car made in a third world country. We want the image of a European luxury car, albeit owned by a Chinese owner."

Geely is planning on building a Volvo plant in China, but it's main operations will not be moved there.

BMW has announced the pricing for the 2011 BMW Alpina B7, which is headed to the US this spring. The 2011 Alpina B7 starts at $122,875 and $126,775 for the extended wheelbase model.

The Alpina B7 is powered by BMW's turbocharged 4.4L V8 with 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque. It reaches 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

The 2011 BMW Alpina B7 will debut at the Chicago Auto Show this month.

A senior BMW authority out of Munich recently told Inside Line that the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics plug-in pure hybrid 2+2 concept car is a go.

The concept that was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show is powered by a 163-hp 1.5L 3-cylinder turbo-diesel engine and two electric-motors for a total 356-horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. The reaction to the concept has been off the charts since it was unveiled. Currently BMW engineers are working on the hybrid system to make it more thrilling to drive. The production model should be faster than the 4.8 sec 0-62 mph time.

BMW is currently debating on how many will be built, but it should range between 5,000-10,000 units.

Pininfarina has released a teaser sketch of a new Alfa Romeo based spider convertible concept that will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The two-seater is meant to commemorate Pininfarina's 80th anniversary and at the same time a homage to the Alfa Romeo 100th birthday.

This is reportedly the first of three concepts that Alfa Romeo commissioned for the show.

BMW has announced the pricing for the 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is, which is the most powerful Z4 currently available and it starts at $61,925.

The Z4 sDrive35is is powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged six-cylinder with 335 hp and 332 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed Double-Clutch automatic transmission. The Z4 sDrive35is is capable of reaching 0-60 in 4.7 seconds and n electronically controlled top speed of 155 mph.

In addition to the upgrades under the hood the Z4 sDrive35is also gets M Sport upgrades such as M Aerodynamics and adaptive M Suspension. The M Suspension lowers the car 10 millimeters.

If this is too much for you the lesser powered Z4 sDrive35i starts at $52,775.

BMW is slowly announcing the updates to its range for the 2011 model year. The announcements have already been made for the 1, 3 and 5 Series models. Now it the X6 is next. The 2011 X6 is going to be powered by the new N55 twin-scroll single-turbo six-cylinder engine mated to an also new eight-speed automatic transmission. In the X6 xDrive35i the engine puts out 306 horsepower. The V8 powered xDrive50i is still powered by the same 4.4L V8. The xDrive35i is capable of reaching 0-62 mph in 6.7 seconds, while the xDrive50i does it in 5.4. Fuel efficiency should improve on both models thanks to the new eight-speed automatic.

The updated X6 is expected in Europe in April, with US deliveries sometime after that.

During a drive event in the Austrian Alps a VW spokesperson revealed that VW is going to launch a new performance division, R GmbH.

Inside Line was told "BMW has its M, Mercedes has AMG, and our sibling Audi has Quattro. This new R division will be our Quattro." R GmbH is an expanded version of the Europe-market VW Individual, which offers aftermarket items for VW owners to make their cars sportier.

The CC R-Line was recently shown at the Detroit Auto Show to gauge interest, but it's not known if it will be offered in North America. Eventually a R version of every vehicle in VW's showroom will be available. The 266-hp Golf R is rumored to be heading to the US in early 2011.

Carlsson has announced plans to unveil the 753 horsepower C25 Super-GT at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The C 25 Super-GT is a heavily revised version of the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series. The 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 puts out an insane 753-hp and 848 lb-ft.of torque. According to Carlsson the engine could technically put out as much as 996 lb-ft, but they had to electronically limit it. Thanks to all that power the C25 reaches 0-62 mph in 3.7 seconds and a 219 mph top speed.

If all that sounds great to you and you can actually afford it, the chances of you actually getting it are pretty much not going to happen. Carlsson is building 25 units, with only one unit per country. Yes that means that only one lucky and very rich buyer will be able to buy it in the US. Hope you know him...

Now that Saab has been officially saved we can look forward to the introduction of the all-new 9-5 and 9-4X crossover.

"I'm happy for Saab employees and Saab customers all over the world," said John Smith, GM vice president, global planning and alliances.

The 9-5 is going to enter production in April with US sales starting shortly after that. According to Smith the 9-4X, which is based on the same platform as the Cadillac SRX will also enter production soon.

The deal that was announced yesterday netted GM $74 million in cash from new parent Spyker and about $326 million worth of preferred stock. The preferred shares are not redeemable until after 2013. Part of the deal also involves GM producing powertrains and other support for the Saab vehicles.

It looks like GM has finally come to an agreement with Spyker to purchase Saab, but don't forget about Volvo. Ford is still currently finalizing a deal wtih China's Geely to buy Volvo. According to the latest rumors the deal could be worth as much as $1.8 billion or as little as $1.6. In 1999 Ford purchased Volvo for $6.45 billion.

Late last year, Ford announced that it had achieved an accord with Geely Holding Group, but the deal is still subject to regulatory approval and is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2010.

Part of the plan involves Geely building a Volvo factory in China. Analysts predict that the Volvo XC60 crossover will be the first model produced in China.

After so much back and forth, GM has officially announced that the automaker has reached an agreement with Spyker concerning the sale of Saab Automobile AB.

"Today's announcement is great news for Saab employees, dealers and suppliers, great news for millions of Saab customers and fans worldwide, and great news for GM," said John Smith, GM vice president for corporate planning and alliances. "General Motors, Spyker Cars, and the Swedish government worked very hard and creatively for a deal that would secure a sustainable future for this unique and iconic brand, and we're all happy for the positive outcome."

Part of the new agreement is that Spyker will form a new company, Saab Spyker Automobiles. GM hasn't announced all the details of the agreement, but its been released that GM will get $74 million in cash while the European Investment Bank will provide a 400 million euro loan ($566 million). GM will retain preferred shares worth about $326 million in Saab.

Spyker's chairman, Vladimir Antonov, has also agreed to step down as part of the agreement.

It looks like Lamborghini is satisfied with current horsepower ratings of its supercars and going forward the automaker is going to focus on reducing weight.

"It has come to the point where acceleration equals consumption," said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of the Italian automaker. "More consumption means increased CO2 emissions."

According to Maurizio Reggiani, Lamborghini's R&D chief, stated that once a vehicle reaches a top speed of 211 mph there is a declining rate of return for each additional horsepower needed to push the car faster. Additionally there are very few places in the world that a driver would be able to drive a car over 200 mph, so Lamborghini is going to shift its focus to acceleration instead of top speed. The most effective way to improve acceleration is to reduce weight.

"The weight-to-power ratio will be the key factor," Reggiani said. "We will use composite materials in the right place, when it also has the right cost, stiffness and mechanical characteristics."

The updated version of the Murcielago LP670-4 SV now has 30 more horsepower for a total of 670, a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds and is 220 pounds lighter.

"No one can really tell 30 horsepower was added, but everyone can feel how much lighter the car is," Reggiani said.

VW has announced that the Passat CC will be available as a five passenger model in Europe. Since it launched the Passat CC, known as just the VW CC in the US has strictly been a four-seater. A new three place, rear bench is now optional. VW hasn't announced if the CC will get this option in the US.

The new rear bench fulfils all necessary safety aspects with its third head restraint and three-point seat belt at the centre position," Volkswagen said in a statement. "In addition, the folding backrest is asymmetrically split, so that even larger objects can be transported effortlessly. The 3-seat rear bench system is available as an option for 100 euros."

According to the latest reports, Fiat is going to merge the Alfa Romeo, Maserati and Abarth brands under one sport sub brand. Abarth and Maserati CEO Harald Wester has been appointed by Fiat as CEO of Alfa Romeo and will now head the three brands. Wester's new role will be to identify synergies between the three brands.

Currently his greatest challenge is going to be to fix Alfa Romeo. Fiat is currently undergoing a strategic review of Alfa Romeo. There are two options that Fiat could take, one is to freeze all development of new models and just focus on selling the MiTo and upcoming Giulietta; the other option is to share platforms with Chrysler for the 159 and 166 replacements.

At the Detroit motor show, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne told Autocar that several options were still available for Alfa.

"Alfa has been underperforming for a long time," he said. "It has been the most difficult part of Fiat's recovery, even though on paper it looks so attractive. The marque isn't for sale, or anything like that.

"It's our problem. But we do have to rethink our objectives and be realistic with ourselves before we do anything else.

"First, I want to see how well we do launching the Giulietta. From the technical point of view it's a huge step forward, but I want to see how it fares. And I want to see how we can take advantage of that through the company."

Volvo has released the pricing for the refreshed 2011 Volvo C70. The Volvo C70 hasn't been a huge hit for Volvo, so the 2011 model is getting a facelift and more standard features to hopefully entice more buyers.

The 2011 C70 gets a revised face that looks similar to the XC60 and new C30. The pricing starts at $39,950 and includes standard features like an automatic 5-speed transmission, SIRIUS satellite radio and luxurious Sovereign Hide leather upholstery.

The 2011 C70 is powered by a 227 horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder engine.

Audi is going to halt production in February of the A3 at its plant in Ingolstadt, Germany, due to slow sales. Audi claims that demand has slowed since the car has been on the market since 2004. The US is set to get a sedan version of the A3 this fall that will sell alongside the Sportback.

Earlier today, BMW released the official European specs for the 2011 MINI Countryman and now we have the US-spec details for MINI's new crossover.

The MINI Countryman is set to go on sale in Europe by the end of 2010, but the US won't get it until early 2011. In the US it will be powered by either a 120-hp 1.6L or a turbocharged 1.6L with at least 180 horsepower. The turbocharged MINI Cooper S Countryman will reach 0-62 mph in 7.6 seconds while it takes the MINI Cooper Countryman 10.5 seconds. Both models can be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Mini's ALL4 all-wheel-drive system is only available on the MINI Cooper S Countryman.

BMW has changes in store for the 2011 3 Series Coupe and Convertible. The changes to the 328i and 335i have already been announced with the 335i getting a new single turbocharged inline-six compared to this years twin-turbocharged engine. For those of you who still want the twin-turbocharged engine, BMW is going to offer the 335is.

The 335is has yet to be announced, but of course lots of info and now photos have leaked. The twin-turbocharged 335is is expected to put out about 322 horsepower and 332 lb-ft. of torque. The engine can be mated to either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 335is, which is only available as the coupe or convertible gets the M-Sport Appearance package, a blacked-out grille, darkened mirrors and a revised suspension.

The official details are expected soon.

Maserati North America has released the pricing for the 2010 GranTurismo Convertible aka GranCabrio. It may be freezing in most parts of the country right now, but once summer hits you'll have one hot car.

The 2010 GranTurismo Convertible starts at $135,800 and is powered by a 433 horsepower 4.7 liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed adaptive automatic transmission with standard paddle shifters. It features a triple insulated top, which maintains the same roofline as the coupe. The top is available in six different colors and retracts in 24 seconds.

Yesterday the first official photos of MINI's new crossover, the Countryman leaked onto the web and now the automaker has responded with a full release.

In Europe the MINI Countryman will be available with a choice of three gas and two diesel engines ranging from 90-hp to the turbocharged 184-hp Cooper S Countryman. MINI's permanent ALL4 all-wheel drive system is optional.

It's not known if MINI's crossover will retain the same name when it is officially unveiled in the US.

MINI has yet to unveil the upcoming Countryman crossover, but the first three official photos have leaked online today.

Pictured here is the first official look at MINI's biggest model. It features five doors and all-wheel-drive, a first for the brand. The overall styling is pretty much what was expected, but not as tall as the Beachcomber concept. Inside the styling is very close to the rest of the MINI lineup.

The MINI Countryman is expected to have its official unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in March and will be on sale later this year.

The 2011 BMW 335i is getting a new single turbo engine compared to the current twin-turbo inline six. Unlike the 335i, the 135i is keeping its twin-turbo engine, but now has an available 7-speed dual clutch transmission.

The 3.0L inline-six now puts out 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque thanks to High Precision Injection and fully variable VALVETRONIC valve management. New for 2010 is the available 7-speed dual clutch transmission that helps the 135i reach 0-60 mph in 5 seconds compared to 5.1 seconds with the six-speed manual. The heavier 135i convertible reaches 0-60 in 5.3 seconds with the dual clutch transmission.

Sales will begin in March 2010.

BMW has officially released the details and photos of the refreshed 3 Series coupe and convertible.

As we await the next 3 Series sedan that is expected to be unveiled some time next year, we can enjoy a refreshed 3 Series coupe and convertible. The coupe and convertible get a refreshed face for the 2011 model year. This includes slightly tweaked headlights, a larger grille and a revised lower fascia. The rear end gets slightly revised taillights.

Under the hood the 335i gets a new turbo engine with only one turbo compared to the current twin-turbo setup. The new engine is supposed to have less turbo lag than the current twin-turbo inline six. According to BMW the new engine puts out the same 300 horsepower, but is more responsive and efficient.

The 2011 BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible will go on sale this spring.

The 2010 MINI Cooper, Cooper S and Clubman models are getting a slight boost in power for the new year. Starting with the base Cooper and Clubman models, it now puts out 3 more horsepower from the 1.6L than last year, not really a big deal I guess. The Cooper S and Clubman S models now put out 9 more horsepower from the turbocharger 1.6L. The S models equipped with the manual transmission get a new self-adjusting clutch with carbon coated linings, which supposedly improves pedal feel and service costs.

The 2010 MINI models will be arriving this March.

Audi has released several teasers of the upcoming A1. Photos have also surfaced of Justin Timberlake filming a commercial with the small car. Well Audi has now released a video of new video with Peter Schwarzenbauer, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales at Audi AG speaking about the new vehicle and how the automaker expects to sell 80,000 units in its first year.

"The subcompact segment is forecast to grow in Europe by the year 2015 - in Germany alone growth of 30 percent is anticipated. We're currently expecting to sell 80,000 units of the A1 in its first full year," said Schwarzenbauer. "People who for practical reasons choose a small car want not only the basic functions, but an exciting design and the latest technology as well. With the A1, we're giving these customers what they want by launching the first premium car in the subcompact segment."

The Audi A1 will officially debut at the Geneva Motor Show this March. Audi still has not announced if the A1 will be offered in the US.

Official details have surfaced regarding the upcoming BMW 335is. Just in case you thought the 335i needed more power, but can't quite afford the M3, BMW is set to launch the 335is coupe and cabriolet with 322 horsepower and 332 lb-ft. of torque from the twin-turbo inline-six.

In addition to more power under the hood the 335is is available with the 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The exterior features the M Sport package and 18" wheels.

The 335is cabriolet is expected to enter production in March with the coupe following in May. It's not known if BMW is planning a sedan version as well.

The 3 Series coupe is also expected to get a facelift for the 2011 model year.

(BMW 335i Coupe shown above)

One of the more exciting things about the Fiat/ Chrysler tie up has been the possibility that Alfa Romeo would make a return to the US. Well it looks like we may have to wait a bit longer. Fiat/ Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne recently stated at the Detroit Auto Show that Alfa Romeo must prove that it has "a right to exist as a separate brand" before it is expanded beyond Europe. The original plans were to launch Alfa Romeo in the US in 2010, but according to Marchionne if Alfa doesn't make a good business case for it, it't not going to happen...

BMW and Mercedes-Benz have both unveiled hybrid versions of their flagship sedans and Audi is next. Audi is set to unveil the A8 Hybrid at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Audi announced its plans at the Detroit Auto Show yesterday. Audi also included that it sees hybrids as the next step to fully electric vehicles and that it has no plans for a mild hybrid. The A8 Hybrid will be a full hybrid. Audi is also going to release a Q5 hybrid this fall. The A8 hybrid is expected to appear shortly after the Q5's launch.

BMW announced the pricing for the 2011 BMW 740i today. The 740i marks the return of a six-cylinder 7 Series and starts at $71,025.

The 2011 740i is powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged in-line six and puts out 315 horsepower. The long wheelbase 740Li starts at $75,425.

The 740i and 740iL will be available this spring.

VW is set to debut the New Compact Coupe Concept at the Detroit Auto Show. The concept that looks pretty close to production ready is about the same size as the current Jetta although it has a longer wheelbase and the overall height is a little shorter.

The concept is powered by a 1.4-liter TSI inline-four with 148 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque that is also mated to a 20-kilowatt electric motor that sits between the engine and the 7-speed DSG transmission. The electric motor has the capability of propeling the vehicle on its own and is powered by a lithium-ion battery. VW estimates that the concept is capable of getting 45 miles to the gallon.

The fact that this concept looks very production ready may mean that this could be a hint at a new coupe for VW. There have been rumors that VW is going to release a new Jetta coupe. This concept could also be a hint of what we can expect from the next Jetta...

Here's another reason we wish that Peugeot would return to the US, Peugeot has unveiled the SR1 Concept ahead of its official debut in Geneva in March.

The SR1 Concept provides a hint of the future Peugeot design language, but that means it's doubtful that this concept will see production. The concept is powered by Peugeot's HYbrid4 technology, which in this case couples a 1.6-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels with an electric motor that sends its power to the rear. The combination puts out 313 horsepower. The HYbrid4 technology will eventually be offered on other Peugeot models.

Expect more details from the show in March.

BMW has announced the 2011 BMW Alpina B7, which will be the most "dynamic" 7 Series available.

The Alpina B7 features the same 4.4L V8 as the 750i, but it's power has been bumped up from 400 to a nice 500 horsepower and 516 lb-ft. of torque. The V8 is mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission. The Alpina B7 reaches 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and the top speed is electronically-governed at 174 mph.

The 2011 Alpina B7 will officially debut at the Chicago Auto Show next month.

As we all wait for GM to finally decide if there is going to be a deal with Spyker concerning the fate of Saab, Spyker has revealed some of its plans for the brand if it does indeed acquire it.

Spyker's boss, Victor Muller recently revealed to AOL that if Spyker does acquire Saab it plans to rebuild the brand around the new 9-5, the 9-4X crossover and the 9-3. The new 9-5 would be released first, in the next few months followed by the introduction of the 9-4X crossover later this year or in 2011.

Regarding the Aero X concept car, Muller stated, "I love that car, and it deserves to be built. It's got true 'Saabishness' in it. It's one of the best designs of the past five years."

We'll have to wait and see what happens. GM has officially extended the deadline for a deal for Saab to January 7th.

With the death of the CLK, Mercedes-Benz is missing a smaller entry level coupe in its lineup. The E-Class coupe is nice, but definitely not cheap with a starting price north of $48K. Mercedes is reportedly working on a new C-Class coupe which will be launched for the 2011 model year.

According to Inside Line, Mercedes is targeting the BMW 1 Series, which has proven that there is a market for a small rear-wheel-drive coupe. Of course the 3 Series is also going to be one of the C-Class coupe's competitors. The C-Class coupe is expected to be powered by a new generation of DOHC V6 engines. A 3.5L V6 and a smaller V6 with twin-turbochargers are expected. An AMG version is also expected, which will be powered by a turbocharged 5.5L V8.

Porsche is currently working on the replacement for the Boxster, which is expected to be released late next year as a 2012 model and according to the latest reports Porsche could be working on a special fuel-efficient model.

There have been rumors that Porsche has been thinking about a lightweight, turbocharged four-cylinder for the 2012 Boxster, but model line director, Hans-Jurgen Wohler, recently revealed to Autocar that a three-cylinder is also possible. Using a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine in the next Boxster would help Porsche lower its fleet emissions due to the new higher standards in the US and Europe.

"A Boxster with a four-cylinder engine, or maybe even a three-cylinder turbo, could produce between 180 and 200 horsepower," said Wohler. "Given the Boxster's history--that it started with a 200 horsepower, 2.5-litre engine--I think this is possibly something that customers could accept.

GM originally had a deadline of December 31st to find a buyer for Saab, but on December 18th GM announced that talks with Dutch luxury carmaker Spyker Cars had failed and the brand would be killed. Two days later Spyker submitted a new offer to buy Saab, which has yet to be decided upon. Spyker Cars Chief Executive Victor Muller has now stated that GM has extended the deadline until January 7th.

Saab spokesman Eric Geers said "We have the orders and we have to deliver them as usual. We also have the orders for the 9-3 and others. The factory has to continue again." He also stated "We are preparing the wind-down process. At the same time we are open to options, to bids that come in. Therefore the deadline has also been dropped."

If Saab does eventually die 3,400 workers in Sweden will lose their jobs.

For the most part badge engineering is pretty lame and rarely is it entirely successful. Well Aston Martin is moving forward with its rebadged Toyota iQ, the Cygnet. Were all used to Aston Martin's beautiful super cars with pricing that many of us could only hope to achieve one day, well the Cygnet is priced many thousands less than anything in Aston martin's current lineup, something that is sure to piss off many Aston Martin owners.

When Aston Martin unveiled the Cygnet concept car many of us thought it was a joke, but sadly it's not and the automaker plans on introducing the rebadged Toyota sometime in 2010.

Ulrich Bez, chief executive of Aston Martin descibed the Cygnet as "This concept is akin to an exclusive tender for a luxury yacht." Pricing is expected to be around £20,000 (about $35,000). But just in case some of you thought it would be cool to own it, you better also have another Aston Martin your garage. The Cygnet is only available to current Aston Martin owners. It's also not expected to come to the U.S.

Ford has announced this morning that all terms with relating to the sale of Volvo Cars to Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited have been settled. There is still more work to be done to complete the sale though. Ford anticipates that the final agreement will be signed by both parties in the first quarter of 2010 and the sale should be complete by the second quarter.

Although Ford will officially be selling Volvo, Ford still intends on working closely with Volvo in the future.

Expect more details soon...

Aston Martin has announced that the One-77 has surpassed expectations by breaking the 200 mph mark. In fact it actually reached 220 mph moving it closer to setting an all-time record for Aston Martin. Aston Martin is going to continue testing it into the new year.

The One-77 is powered by a 7.3-liter V12 with over 700 horsepower mated to a six-speed transmission. Aston Martin expects deliveries of the 77 units to start in mid-2010.

Over the weekend Spyker submitted a new proposal that addressed 11 of the issues that made the earlier discussions fail, ultimately leading to GM's announcement to kill Saab. It's new proposal had an expiration date of today at 5 pm ET, but Spyker has released a short press release stating that the offer has been extended until further notice.

GM has been in discussions with Spyker, but no details have been released.

Saab lovers there might still be hope...

BMW Motorsport has announced the the BMW Z4 GT3, which joins its lineup of racing vehicles.

The BMW Z4 GT3 will be powered by a more powerful version of the M3's 4.0L V8 mated to a sequential six-speed transmission. It's expected to put out approximately 480 horsepower. The BMW Z4 GT3 also features wheels with locking and safety clips, as well as racing ABS and optional air conditioning.

The BMW Z4 GT3 in its racing version is available from the second quarter of 2010 at an estimated price of 298,000 Euro.

Now that BMW has officially launched the ActiveHybrid 7 and the ActiveHybrid X6, the next model to receive a hybrid powertrain is the new 5 Series. According to BMWBlog, BMW is going to unveil a concept version of the ActiveHybrid 5 at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

The ActiveHybrid 5 will not use the same V8 powered system as the ActiveHybrid X6, instead it's expected to be powered by a 218 horsepower six-cylinder engine mated to a 40 horsepower electric motor.

A production version is due by the end of next year.

On Friday GM announced that it would be winding down the Saab brand in January after talks with both Spyker and Swedish carmaker Koenigsegg failed. Now Spyker has announced today that the car maker has submitted another bid for Saab.

Spyker Chief Executive Victor Muller stated that the company submitted a new proposal to GM that addressed the issues that were holding up the deal. "Despite our collective 11th-hour set-back, we are returning to the table with a renewed offer, that addresses every known issue brought to light during the initial negotiations and that has the full backing of the Saab management," Muller said in a statement.

If the Saab brand does die approximately 3,400 jobs will be lost. After Friday's announcement it was also reported that the Swedish government was holding emergency meetings to address the issue.

The new proposal from Spyker has an expiration date of Monday at 5pm ET.

Rather than unveil another Toyota in Aston Martin digs (see Cygnet), Aston Martin has released limited-edition versions of the V12 Vantage and DBS. The Carbon Black V12 Vantage and DBS are painted in a Carbon Black metallic paint especially formulated with a subtle metallic twist to create a deep rich patina. Each car requires 50 man-hours of paint time.

Inside the seats are made from carbon fiber and Kevlar saving 17 kg over the standard seat. The seats are covered in Obsidian Black leather with silver stitching and the dashboard and center console trims are finished in piano black.

The Carbon Black Editions of the V12 Vantage and DBS are expected to cost 5% more than the regular versions.

GM has officially announced the death of the Saab brand. In what is going to be a sad day for all the Saab lovers out there, GM has announced that the talks with Spyker to acquire the brand have ended, leaving no other suitors. Last month Koenigsegg unexpectedly withdrew its bid for the brand.

"Despite the best efforts of all involved, it has become very clear that the due diligence required to complete this complex transaction could not be executed in a reasonable time. In order to maintain operations, Saab needed a quick resolution," said GM Europe President Nick Reilly. "We regret that we were not able to complete this transaction with Spyker Cars. We will work closely with the Saab organization to wind down the business in an orderly and responsible manner. This is not a bankruptcy or forced liquidation process. Consequently, we expect Saab to satisfy debts including supplier payments, and to wind down production and the distribution channel in an orderly manner while looking after our customers."

Back in September Volvo unveiled a C30 prototype with an electric powertrain. Next month at the Detroit Auto Show Volvo is going to unveil complete electric powered C30. It features both a complete interior and full instrumentation, as well as enhanced battery packaging.

"The first prototype helped us identify the main technological challenges, such as battery packaging and safety issues. We have addressed these challenges without compromising the C30's cool and fun-to-drive personality. I am very happy with the result. The electric C30 in Detroit is a much more complete product," says Lennart Stegland, Director of Volvo Cars Special Vehicles.

The next step in the process is to build 50 of the electric C30s in 2010 that will be driven over the next two years.

If you live in the UK and like the Land Rover Freelander, Land Rover has just unveiled the 2010 Freelander 2 Sport.

The "sport" version of the Freelander features an exterior that comes in either Santorini Black or Lago Grey with color keyed trim, a rear spoiler and 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside there is a two-tone interior trim in contrasting Ebony and Storm. You can choose between a full leather interior or a cloth/leather setup.

The Freelander 2 Sport is powered by a 2.2L TD4 diesel power unit. It goes on sale in January 2010 with a starting price of £26,695.

BMW has announced the return of the 740i and 740Li models for the 2011 model year.

The 2011 740i and 740Li will be powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged inline-six with 315 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque from 1600-4500 rpm. The six-cylinder is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Both models will be available in the spring of 2010.

VW unveiled the Amarok pickup truck earlier this month. The body-on-frame truck is powered by a 2.0L turbo diesel with 163-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque that helps it tow 5,600 pounds. There has been a lively debate about if the car should be sold in the US, since right now VW only plans on selling it in in South America, Australia, South Africa and Europe.

Well VW President and CEO, Stefan Jacoby has stated how many units VW would have to sell in the US to make it worthwhile.

"We'd have to sell at least 100,000 Amarok pickups to make it feasible," said Jacoby.

That basically means that the Amarok has no chances of coming here. The best-selling Toyota Tacoma is the only truck in that segment to sell over 100,000 units. Through November, 102,327 Tacomas have been sold. The next best-seller the Ford Ranger has sold only 51,097 units year-to-date.

The compact pickup segment is declining," said Jacoby. "Consumers are going to big pickups, which is a very traditional conservative segment. A lot of our competitors have burned their fingers in it as late entries."

"Before we could bring [the Amarok] here we'd have to do a lot of homework," said Jacoby. "But we have other vehicles to bring into this market first. Once we do that, we can talk about the Amarok."

Audi has just announced that ex-N'SYNC member, Justin Timberlake is going to become the brand ambassador for Audi in 2010.

Justin Timberlake is expected to play a key role in the launch of the Audi A1 next spring.

"Audi has always been at the forefront of engineering and technology", says Timberlake, "and I am very excited to be a part of the next evolution conscience with Audi and the A1".

The latest reports are claiming that the US will not be receiving the new A1, but who knows...

It's not a joke. Aston Martin has taken a Toyota iQ and modified it to create the Cygnet.

To create the Cygnet concept, Aston Martin took the familiar styling cues from the other Aston Martin models like the DBS and upcoming Rapide and applied them to Toyota's tiny iQ. For now the car remains purely a concept, but Aston Martin hopes to have a production version ready for European customers in 2010.

BMW and Audi are both ditching their large displacement engines for small more efficient engines with turbos, well it looks like Mercedes-Benz is also about to follow the trend. The latest reports are claiming that Mercedes-Benz is going to replace the 6.2L V8 it currently offers in its AMG models with a turbo-charged 5.5L.

Daimler AG Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development board member Dr. Thomas Weber recently revealed to Inside Line that the 5.5L V8 will replace the 6.2L by the end of next year. Weber didn't provide any specifications of the new engine. He also stated that other all 2011 V8 powered Mercedes-Benz models will use smaller turbocharged V8s.

We're still waiting for the upcoming MINI crossover, but in the mean time MINI is set to unveil the Beachcomber concept at the Detroit Auto Show next month. The Beachcomber concept is based on the new crossover, but features styling that is similar to a Jeep Wrangler with its missing doors and open top design.

If you can think all the back to 1964, for those of us that were alive back then, MINI did have an open air vehicle dubbed the Mini Moke. That original open air vehicle which consisted of only a floorpan, wide sills at the side, the engine compartment lid and the windscreen serves as the inspiration for the Beachcomber concept.

It is very unlikely that this concept will ever be produced, but the all-wheel-drive system and turbocharged four-cylinder featured in the concept are likely to be part of the upcoming MINI crossover.

It's going to be freezing in Detroit next month for the Detroit Auto Show, but Mercedes-Benz has chosen the show as the official unveiling of the 2011 E-Class Cabriolet.

The replacement for the CLK Cabriolet is based on the E-Class coupe and can be powered by either a 268-hp 3.5L V6 in the E350 or a 382-hp 5.5L V8 in the E550. Although the trend has been for new convertibles to feature folding hardtops, the E-Class Cabriolet sticks to the soft top. The soft top only takes 20 seconds to open or close and it can be operated at speeds up to 25 mph. One of the benefits of a soft top is that it takes up less truck space. With the top up the cabriolet has 13.8 cu. ft. of space and with it down truck space is only decreased by 3.17 cu. ft.

The cool feature of the new cabriolet is a new AIRCAP system which consists of a wind deflector that can be extended by around 2.4 inches with a net in the windscreen frame and a draft-stop between the rear seats. According to Mercedes-Benz the system reduces interior noise and can be activated at speeds up to 100 mph. The AIRSCARF system acts like an invisible scarf by keeping passengers head and neck warm when the top is down. The system is in the back of the front headrests and provides warm air through air outlets.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet will be available in May 2010.

Volvo has announced the pricing for the refreshed 2011 C30 T5 and the sportier C30 R-Design. The 2011 Volvo C30 T5 starts at $24,600, while the C30 R-Design starts at $26,950.

The 2011 C30 gets a new front end including a new nose, front fenders, grille, headlights and lower front spoiler. The rear of the C30 gets a facelift as well. Both models are powered by the same turbocharged 227 horsepower inline 5-cylinder engine. The R-Design model gets a stiffer suspension thanks to stiffer bushings, roll stabilizers and springs. The R-Design model also gets a full body kit that is body colored to give the impression that the car has actually been lowered more than the actual 10 mm.

It's only been available for three months, but Porsche has already produced the 10,000th Panamera at its Leipzig plant.

Porsche has already received 9,000 orders for the four-door Panamera and the automaker is planning on producing 20,000 units per year. The 10,000th Panamera was a platinum silver metallic Panamera Turbo headed to Singapore.

When BMW introduced the new Z4 roadster this year, the automaker stated that unlike the last generations, there would not be an M version of the new Z4. At launch Z4 buyers could choose between the sDrive30i or sDrive35i models. Well BMW has just announced the addition of the new sDrive35is model for the 2011 model year.

The 2011 Z4 sDrive35is is based on the sDrive35i with its twin turbocharged 3.0l inline six-cyl engine. But in the sDrive35is the engine features increased air intake flow and increased boost pressure to release more power. The horsepower rating has been bumped up to 335 and torque is now at 332 lb-ft. The Z4 sDrive35is can reach 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. The more powerful engine is mated to a standard 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The Z4 sDrive35is also comes standard with the M Sports Package including the M Aerodynamics Package and adaptive M Suspension, which lowers the ride height by almost 0.4 inches.

The 2011 Z4 sDrive35is will arrive in spring 2010.

Volkswagen and Suzuki have announced a new partnership which sees VW buying 19.9% of Suzuki. Suzuki will then take half the money it receives from VW and return the favor by buying VW shares.

Although the new partnership involves VW buying almost 20 percent of Suzuki, both automakers will remain independent. The partnership will allow both automakers to collaborate on smaller vehicles.

Aston Martin has announced the starting price for the 2011 Rapide four-door, which will hit dealerships next spring.

The 2011 Rapide has a starting price of $199,950. It will be the first sports car to be hand-built at the Aston Martin Rapide Plant in Graz, Austria. Aston Martin is predicting that about 2,000 Rapides will be produced in its first year.

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that some of the production of the next generation C-Class will be shifted to its Tuscaloosa, Alabama plant.

Partial production of the next C-Class, due in 2014 will take place at the plant in Alabama that also currently produces the M-Class, R-Class and GL-Class models. The shift will only account for one-fifth of global C-Class production, but it will help Mercedes-Benz offset currency rates and increase profitability. It will also enable Mercedes to fulfill regional customer requirements even faster and more flexibly.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars stated, "This decision will also help to protect employment at our sites in Germany over the long term. Germany is and will remain at the heart of our production network."

Bentley has announced the pricing for the 2011 Bentley Mulsanne that will go on sale in Fall 2010.

Bentley's newest flaghship, the Mulsanne has a starting price of $285,000. Of course once you start selecting options it will be over $300K. It is powered by a 6.75-liter V8 engine with 505 horsepower and 725 lb-ft of torque that is mated to an eight speed automatic transmission.

"Even at this very early stage, the expression of interest we've received easily exceeds our 2010 production targets. Mulsanne's credentials are a pure expression of Bentley design and craftsmanship, and that's struck a chord with Bentley enthusiasts as well as many of the potential customers we have welcomed for tours in Crewe this year. We've been encouraged by the positive commentary, notably from our American customers as the Mulsanne was privately previewed in seven metro markets across the country."

It's been thirty years since VW released its first and only pickup in 1980 and now VW is set to enter the market again with the Amarok.

The Amarok is a real truck with a body-on-frame design. It can haul 2,300 pounds and tow up to 5,600 pounds when it is powered by VW's 2.0L turbo diesel with 163-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. Another smaller diesel will join the lineup in mid-2010 in addition to a direct-injected gasoline engine. The Amarok is available with three different drive configurations: rear-wheel-drive, full time AWD and part time AWD. At launch the Amarok will only be offered as a four door "double cab", but a "single cab" will be available in the first half of 2011.

Of course we aren't getting the Amarok in the US, but our friends in South America, Australia, South Africa and Europe are....

Audi has officially unveiled the all-new 2011 A8 at Miami's Design Week.

The 2011 Audi A8 gets all-new styling that draws cues from many of its other siblings in the Audi lineup. It features Audi's first application of full led headlights that can adjust their lighting direction based on the navigation system.

"The new Audi A8 is the sportiest sedan in its segment," says Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. "It combines numerous functions in a new and intelligent way. And it's unmatched in the stylistic elements and impression of the interior."

Audi claims that the 2011 A8 is longer and wider than its competitors and it also sits lower.

The new A8, which arrives in US dealerships in late 2010, is powered by a 4.2 FSI V8 that puts out 372 horsepower and is now 15 percent more fuel efficient. The V8 is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

For the 28th year in a row, CARandDRIVER has picked the 10 best cars. This year's list consists of a few returning models like the BMW 3 Series and Honda Accord, which have both been on the list 19 and 24 times, respectively.

The publication tested 58 models worth $2.5 million total and logged a total of 12,000 test miles. New to the list this year is the Ford Fusion Hybrid, note that the gas only version isn't though. The Chevrolet Corvette, Infiniti G37, and the Jaguar XF are all off this year's list.

Check out the complete list after the jump.

GM has announced today that Koenigsegg has terminated the agreement to buy Saab.

GM released a very short press release about the termination and president and CEO Fritz Henderson stated "We're obviously very disappointed with the decision to pull out of the Saab purchase."

This announcement obviously puts Saab's future in jeopardy. GM stated, "we will take the next several days to assess the situation and will advise on the next steps next week."

BMW has officially unveiled the 2011 5 Series. We've already seen the Gran Turismo body style of the new 5 Series, which is already on sale, but this is our first look at the sedan.

The 2011 5 Series now shares its platform with the larger 7 Series and the upcoming Rolls-Royce Ghost. Overall the styling of the new 5 Series, looks very similar to the larger 7 Series. It now has the longest wheelbase in its class. At launch the 5 Series will be available with either a 400-hp 4.4L V8 (550i) or 300-hp 3.0L six-cylinder engine (535i). The engines can be mated to either a six-speed manual, eight-speed automatic or a new "Sport Automatic" 8-speed. The 528i will debut at a later date with a 240 horsepower six-cylinder.

Check out the very long press release for more details.

BMW has announced the pricing for the 2010 ActiveHybrid X6 that will be available starting on December 5th at a starting price of $89,725.

The ActiveHybrid X6 features BMW's dual-mode hybrid technology mated to a twin-turbo V8 and a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The $90k gets a list of things that aren't standard on the X6 xDrive50i including Nappa leather seats, 20-inch wheels, rear view camera, soft close doors, power tailgate, 4-zone climate control, etc. If you want even more, there are extras like the active ventilating seat package, cold weather package, Rear seat entertainment system, etc. All of which would push the price even closer to $100k.

For this price you could also get the 555-hp X6 M, but I guess it's not quite as "green."

Rather than unveil the all-new Audi A8 at the LA Auto Show next month, Audi has announced that its new flagship sedan will have its official debut at t the world's most important art and design fairs, Design Miami/ and Art Basel Miami Beach.

Audi will showcase the new Audi A8 at a Design Miami/ site-specific installation: a full-size car will turn into a miniature collectible on a coffee-table and be surrounded by supersized furniture.

Audi did not release any details about the new A8. Stay tuned...

BMW has announced the pricing for the 2010 550i Gran Turismo that will be available in US showrooms on December 5th. The V8 powered Gran Turismo starts at $64,725.

The 550i Gran Turismo is powered by a 400-hp 4.4L twin-turbo that is mated to BMW's first ever 8-speed transmission. It is capable of reaching 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The twin-turbo 535i GT will also be available, but BMW has yet to release pricing on that model.

Daimler has announced the start of a new pilot program in Austin, Texas, in which 200 Smart ForTwos will be available through its cars2go car sharing service.

The program will allow city employees to rent the cars for a few hours and then return them to a designated location. It's similar to Zipcar. Daimler also tested the program earlier this year in Ulm, Germany. If it's successful it will be expanded to other areas.

BMW is going to delay the introduction of the next X3 by six months to launch a new system that will make it easier for buyers to custom order the X3.

This means that the next X3 will not arrive in US showrooms until mid-2011, a full six months after it launches in Europe. The delay will also allow BMW the ability to offer up to four different engines, which will lower the base price of the X3. According to Jim O'Donnell, president of BMW of North America, the X3 could be offered with a four-cylinder and a diesel in addition to the six-cylinder engines. BMW is going to decide by the end of the year if a four-cyl or six-cyl diesel will be offered. Production of the X3 is also going to X3 will shift from Magna Steyr in Austria to BMW's Spartanburg, S.C., factory.

Of course this delay is going to hurt sales of the X3. Its sales are off 67 percent this year.

Lotus has announced the pricing for the 2010 Lotus Evora that will arrive in the U.S. in the first quarter of 2010. The 2010 Evora will start at $73,500.

The Evora features a 2+2 setup with a mid engine. The 3.5L V6 puts out 276 horsepower and 256 lb-ft. of torque. Thanks to its light weight It reaches 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed over 162 mph. It also manages to get over 30 mpg on the highway.

Lotus has announced a 44 dealer Open House Tour of the US of the Evora for people that haven't seen the car in person.

Volvo has released the first official photos of the 2011 S60 that is set to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The all-new S60 draws many styling cues from the S60 concept and features many of the same design elements as the rest of the Volvo models. Unfortunately the suicide doors from the concept didn't make it to production, but the coupe-like roofline remains.

Volvo claims that the new S60 will drive like no other Volvo and will be safer thanks to the Pedestrian Detection system.

The 2011 Volvo S60 will enter production in early summer 2010.

Bugatti unveiled the 16C Galibier Concept back in September and now the automaker has showed the car off at a special event in Los Angeles.

The concept is powered by a 8.0L W16 engine with twin-turbochargers that is expected to be mated to an eight-speed transmission. Bugatti hasn't released official specs for the all-wheel-drive Galibier, but it's been rumored that the W16 engine will put out around 800 horsepower and the car will have a top speed around 220 mph.

Bugatti claims that when it is officially released the Galibier will be the fastest and most powerful four-passenger sedan available.

Porsche has unveiled the 2011 Boxster Spyder, which will become the lightest Porsche available. The third Boxster model will join the Boxster and Boxster S and debut at the 2009 LA Auto Show.

The Boxster Spyder features a low slung soft-top, extra low side windows and two bulges on the rear lid that make the Spyder reminiscent of the Carrera GT. The Spyder is powered by a 3.4-liter six-cylinder that puts out 320 horsepower, which is 10 more than the Boxster S. It also features an all-new sport suspension that lowers the Boxster Spyder 20 mm. The Boxster Spyder only weighs 2,811 pounds, which is 176 pounds lighter than the Boxster S.

When equipped with Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission the Boxster Spyder reaches 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

The 2011 Boxster Spyder goes on sale February 2010. U.S. pricing is $61,200.

Here's our first look at what we can expect for the next BMW 3 Series, which is expected to debut in 2011 as a 2012 model. From these photos its clear that the proportions of the next 3 Series are not going to change much. The next-generation will also see the return of four-cylinder engines in the US market.

Ford has announced that it is in negotiations with China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. Ltd. to sell Volvo. If the deal does go though, Ford has no plans on retaining any ownership of Volvo.

Lewis Booth, Ford Motor Company executive vice president and chief financial officer stated "Ford believes Geely has the potential to be a responsible future owner of Volvo and to take the business forward while preserving its core values and the independence of the Swedish brand. But there is much work that needs to be completed in the more substantive discussions that are agreed to take place. We have no specific timeline to conclude the discussions."

Stephen Odell, Volvo CEO also stated that "Volvo's management team welcomes today's announcement as a positive step forward. At Volvo, we are continuing to keep our attention firmly fixed on engineering and building great Volvo cars, to reduce our cost base and to return the business to sustainable profitability at the earliest possible opportunity."

Chrysler is expected to unveil its 5-year plan next week on November 4th, but the Wall Street Journal has revealed many of the details we can expect to hear next week.

The plan is calling for the end of many of the Chrysler models that are currently in US showrooms. Many of the models will be replaced by vehicles from Fiat and Alfa Romeo.

Expect more details next week, but for now here's a list of what models we can expect to see either die or survive...

BMW recently released M versions of its X5 and X6 SUVs, but according to the latest reports BMW is not planning an M version of the 5-Series GT.

A source told AutoCar that the most powerful 5-Series GT will be the twin-turbo V8 550i.

BMW is also not planning an M version of the new Z4.

Motor Trend has announced the list of SUV contenders for its "SUV of the Year" award.

Of course this award is great to whomever wins, due to all of the bragging rights that come along with it. It's usually heavily used in every ad campaign. Last year the Subaru Forester took home the award.

Which SUV do you think should win this year's award?

The current VW Beetle was all the rage when it debuted in 1998. VW also managed to sell 83,434 New Beetles in 1999, but since then sales have continued to decline to only 26,477 units last year. Over 10 years since it was released, the Beetle now barely registers on the radar and has been overshadowed by other retro vehicles like the Mini. Well VW is finally working on a successor that will arrive in 2012 and according to Stefan Jacoby, president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, the next model will have better packaging and a larger back seat.

According to Jacoby the major complaint about the Beetle, besides its age is that it has a cramped back seat. The new Beetle will indeed have a bigger back seat, but Jacoby was quick to state that that doesn't necessarily mean that it will be bigger.

Jacoby also stated that he sees the next Beetle as more of a halo car for the brand.

Volvo has released a few official photos of a 2011 S60 prototype being tested with Volvo's new Collision Warning with Full Auto Brake and Pedestrian Detection system in the streets of Copenhagen.

The new technology has been tested for the past ten years and will make it's first appearance on the new S60.

"Our aim is that this new technology should help the driver avoid collisions with pedestrians at speeds below 25 km/h. If the car is travelling faster, the aim is to reduce the impact speed as much as possible. In most cases, we can reduce the collision force by about 75 percent. Considering the large number of pedestrian fatalities that occur, if we manage to lower the fatality risk by 20 percent this new function will make a big difference. In specific situations the fatality reduction can be up to 85 percent," says Thomas Broberg.

Sources recently told the Automotive News that Porsche is contemplating a convertible (cabrio) version of its new four-door Panamera. If Porsche decides to green light the Cabrio version of the Panamera it will be a two-door with a soft top. There are also rumors circulating that a GT Coupe is also being considered.

Porsche hasn't confirmed that the existence of a Panamera Cabrio or GT Coupe, but Porsche R&D chief Wolfgang Dürheimer has implied that more variants of the Panamera could be on the way.

Before either the Cabrio or GT Coupe make it to market expect V6 and hybrid powered versions of the Panamera. A diesel powered model is supposedly also in the works.

During an event in Wolfsburg yesterday, VW officials confirmed that the recently unveiled Golf R will indeed be sold in the US as the GTI-R. The GTI-R will replace the R32.

When the GTI-R reaches the US it will be powered by a 265-hp 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder mated to either a manual transmission or Volkswagen's DSG. VW's 4Motion all-wheel-drive system will send the power to all four wheels. When equipped with the DSG the GTI-R reaches 0-62 mph in 5.5 seconds and the top speed is limited to 155 mph.

Expect the GTI-R to hit US dealerships sometime next year.

BMW has said in the past that the automaker has no plans to ever offer a front-wheel-drive, but it looks like that will soon change. It's being reported that BMW is currently working on a new line dubbed the 0 Series that will share its platform with the next generation MINI.

If the rumors are true, the 0 Series will hit showrooms by 2013 in three-door, five-door, and roadster versions.

Volkswagen of America president Stefan Jacoby recently confirmed that the upcoming sedan codenamed "NMS" will replace the Passat in the US. The new sedan is to be built at Volkswagen's new facility in Tennessee.

Jacoby admitted that the current Passat is too small for American car buyers. The new sedan will be introduced in about two years and arrive as a 2012 or 2013 model.

In addition to the news about the Passat, Jacoby also stated that pulling the Phaeton from the US market after the 2006 model year was a mistake. "You need to be patient to enter a new segment." The new Phaeton is expected to arrive by the end of next year in Europe. Jacoby did not state when it will be sold in the US again.

Just in time for your the start of your holiday shopping Jaguar is releasing a limited edition XJL Supercharged that will be featured in this year's Neiman Marcus catalog. Only 50 of the limited edition 2010 Jaguar XJL sedans will be sold.

The 2010 Jaguar XJL Supercharged Neiman Marcus Edition starts with the extended wheelbase XJL equipped with the 470-hp 5.0L V8 and adds exclusive Celestial Black paint and 20-inch wheels. Inside there is a special nameplate that marks the car as one of the special 50 produced.

If you can wait a little longer, the XJ will be on sale in early 2010.

Wolfgang Duerheimer, head of development at Porsche recently told Germany's Automobilwoche that creating a model that is significantly cheaper than the current Boxster is top priority for the automaker. What does this mean? It looks like Porsche is going to get a version of the Volkswagen Bluesport concept.

Volkswagen unveiled the Bluesport Concept earlier this year. The two-seater mid-engine roadster is powered by a 2.0L diesel. If a Porsche version is for sure in the works, expect it to share most of its mechanicals with the VW version.

Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen has confirmed that an electric vehicle based on the e-Tron concept that debuted in Frankfurt will be on the market in two to three years.

"I expect we will see running examples in the next 24 months," he says.

The e-Tron concept is powered by four individual electric motors, one on each axle. Audi says that the concept is capable of traveling 154 miles thanks to its lithium-ion battery. The e-Tron concept features styling that is similar to the R8, but is shorter with different front and rear fascias.

Bugatti unveiled the 16C Galibier Concept in Frankfurt last month and reportedly it has been given the green light for production according to Auto Express.

The four-door concept features a 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine borrowed from the Veyron, which will be detuned to 800 horsepower and mated to a conventional eight speed transmission. It's estimated that the Galibier would reach a top speed of 220 mph.

If these reports are true expect to see the Galibier's release in 2013 with a price tag of £900,000 price tag, which is about $1.4 million.

Aluminum bodied cars are lighter than traditional steel models, so Audi has unveiled an aluminum A5 Coupe prototype that is over 200 pounds lighter than its equivalent steel bodied production model.

Audi engineers started with the traditional steel-bodied production car as its basis and then added the benefits of the aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF) concept. According to Audi the use of the ASF principles lowers the body weight of a car by 40 percent. It shows here with the use of ASF and carbon fiber engineers were able to lower the body weight of the A5 from 3,130 pounds to 2,888 pounds.

A major benefit is that the lighter A5 prototype that is powered by a four-cyl engine offers the same performance as a V-6.

Audi's aluminum technology is bound to find its way into future Audi models, but Audi has no plans to produce the A5 prototype.

According to Inside Line, Jaguar is currently at work on a compact five door coupe based on the XF. Think of it as a competitor to the Audi A5 Sportback.

The coupe is codenamed RD7 and it has suicide-type rear doors and a side-hinged tailgate. Jaguar had been considering three and five door versions, but has decided to move forward only with the five door since it should have higher sales.

Although Inside Line has received word that the coupe is in the works, it is still about four years off. A new sportscar, codenamed XE is set to debut first in 2011, with sales starting in 2012.

Fiat unveiled the rally-spec Abarth 500 R3T at the 51st Sanremo rally.

The Abarth 500 rally version will be type approved for Group R3T. It's powered by a 1.4-liter four-cyl with a Garret GT 1446 fixed-geometry turbocharger that puts out 180 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed sequential transmission with a multiplate self-locking differential and twin plate clutch. 17" OZ rims and adjustable racing shock absorbers are also included in addition to Brembo discs on all 4 wheels.

The 500 R3T is fitted with a full roll cage and dry weight comes in at 2380 lbs, which is the minimum for the category.

Since it's unveiling many people in the U.S. have been hoping that the Fiat 500 would eventually be sold here. Well now that Fiat and Chrysler have hooked up our wish has come true. Its been confirmed that the Fiat 500 will be sold through Chrysler dealerships when it is released and it will be the only Fiat badged model in the U.S.

Chrysler brand CEO and head of sales for all Chrysler Group brands, Peter Fong stated that the Fiat 500 will likely have a dedicated corner in Chrysler showrooms rather than its own retail network like the Mini. Eventually four versions will make it to the U.S., the hatchback, convertible, a wagon and a high-performance version.

The Fiat 500 is expected to be produced at Chrysler's Toluca, Mexico facility in late 2010 or early 2011.

As expected, the next-gen BMW M5 is going to ditch its current 5.0L V10 engine for a smaller turbocharged V8.

BMW insiders have confirmed the change, but did not give any details about the V8. It's safe to assume that the M5 will be powered by the same turbocharged 4.4L V8 that is in the M versions of the X5 and X6. In the X5 and X6 it puts out 555 horsepower and 500 lb-ft. of torque.

Audi is also expected to drop its V10 engine from the RS6 for a turbocharged V8.

The BMW 5 Series GT has yet to reach showrooms, but BMW is already planning a GT version of the 3 Series. The 335i Gran Turismo will be released sometime in 2011 and will have a similar two-stage tailgate as the 5-Series GT. It's expected to be priced between the 3 Series and 5 Series. It's also possible that 4 and 5 seater versions will be produced with both diesel and gasoline engines. It's doubtful that an M3 version will be produced.

It's not yet known if the 3 Series GT will replace the 3-Series wagon in the US, since the 5 Series GT is expected to replace the 5 Series wagon here.

Earlier this week it was revealed that the new Mercedes SLS AMG would be one of the cars in the new Gran Turismo 5 and now Mercedes has released images of the car in the game.

Japanese luxury tuner, ASI has created a new bodykit for the 2010 Ferrari 458 Italia.

According to ASI the new kit, which consists of a new nose, air intakes and vents in front of the front wheels matches the aerodynamic performance of the stock 458 Italia. Of course the new kit is lighter.

It's not known if there willbe any performance upgrades to the 570-hp 4.5L V8.

The next-generation Audi RS6 is set to be unveiled early next year. Rumors are circulating that the next model will drop its 5.2L V10 for a V8 with twin turbochargers.

The current RS6 is powered by a twin-turbo 580-hp 5.2L V10. It reaches 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph. If the rumors are in fact true, don't expect a reduction in power. The turbocharged V8 will likely be between 4.0-4.5 liters.

The next BMW M5 is also expected to ditch its V10 for the 4.4L V8 that powers the M versions of the X5 and X6.

Land Rover has officially confirmed the production of the LRX concept, which is not really much of a surprise to anyone. The production version of the concept will join Land Rover's lineup in 2011.

According to Land Rover the new Range Rover will be the smallest, lightest and most efficient vehicle ever produced by the automaker.

Phil Popham, managing director of Land Rover said: "The production of a small Range Rover model is excellent news for our employees, dealers and customers. It is a demonstration of our commitment to investing for the future, to continue to deliver relevant vehicles for our customers, with the outstanding breadth of capability for which we are world-renowned."

Final details have not been released, but the official photo rendering of the production version shows that its styling will remain close to the concept.

Although Aston Martin originally stated that the V12 powered Vantage would not make it to the US, Aston Martin CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez has stated otherwise.

Bez recently told Car and Driver, that although Aston Martin originally planned on only producing 1,000 units over its one-year life span, more could be produced. Additionally the car is going to officially come to the US as well.

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage is powered by a 510-hp 6.2L V12. It reaches 0-62 mph in 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 190 mph.

VW is expected to buy a stake in Suzuki by the end of 2009 according to the German industry publication Automobilwoche report.

The publication quoted an unnamed Suzuki executive, "For Suzuki and VW this connection would be a win-win situation. Suzuki would have access to a variety of VW's technology, while Volkswagen would have a solid supporting leg in India and Southeast Asia."

VW has declined to comment, but last week VW's Chief Executive Martin Winterkorn stated that Suzuki's current product lineup would work well with VW.

There has been speculation about a tie up between the two automakers since August.

Currently BMW does not offer a four-cylinder powered car in the US, while it does in the rest of the world. Well that will soon change with the 3-Series once again being offered with a four banger in the US by 2012.

BMW's U.S. chief Jim O'Donnell revealed in Frankfurt this week that BMW is planning on releasing new 4-cylinder engines in the US that will feature twin-turbocharging technology. BMW's goal is to release the four-cylinder powered 3-Series by spring of 2012.

Aston Martin's first ever four-door sports sedan is upon us and it is quite sexy...much sexier than the Porsche Panamera. The Aston Martin Rapide takes the current styling of the Aston Martin coupes and apply is it to a four-door design. The concept version of the Rapide was unveiled at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show and the production version remains true to the concept.

The Rapide is powered by a 470-hp 6.0L V12 engine that is mated to a six-speed Touchtronic 2 automatic transmission.

Chief Executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: "Rapide is the culmination of the Aston Martin range of sports cars, a car that seals the revival of a truly admired marque. There is now an Aston Martin for every taste and for every use.

"With Rapide, the entire family can enjoy their Aston Martin together in unison, in an invigorating yet comfortable environment, sitting low, with plenty of visibility from every seat and with new levels of comfort, refinement and entertainment."

Officially joining the Mini Coupe Concept in Frankfurt is the Mini Roadster Concept. The Mini Roadster is a two-seater with a chopped roofline and a more tilted windshield. Other than that the Roadster concept looks pretty much the same as the other Mini models currently being produced. In fact this concept is almost certainly the second new model Mini is going to produce in addition to the new coupe.

The front end of the roadster is identical to the convertible all the way until the a-pillar, where the roadster gets a more raked windhield. With the roof up the roadster has a more notchback look, further distinguishing it from the Mini convertible.

VW has unveiled the E-Up! Concept that was developed from the Up! concept and is supposed to give a glimpse of a new car in 2013 that VW claims will be the "Beetle of the 21st Century."

The small E-Up! is powered by an electric motor, which has a range of 80 miles. It sprints from 0-62 mph in 11.3 seconds. Depending on charging infrastructure, the lithium-ion battery can be charged up to 80 percent within an hour.

The E-Up! Concept is indeed a small car and has a 3+1 layout to make it possible to carry up to four passengers.

Although US buyers aren't getting the A5 Sportback, Audi has unveiled the sportier version, the S5 Sportback.

The S5 Sportback is powered by the same supercharged 3.0L V6 as the S4 that will also soon replace the V8 engine in the S5 coupe. It puts out 333 horsepower and 324 lb-ft. of torque and propels the S5 Sportback from 0-62 mph in 5.4 seconds with a 155 mph top speed. Audi claims that the S5 Sportback averages 24 mpg. Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system and seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic transmission are standard.

Visually the S5 Sportback is differentiated from the lesser powered A5 Sportback by side mirrors in aluminum trim, a single frame grille, S-design aluminum wheels, and quad tailpipes.

The S5 Sportback goes on sale in Europe in Spring 2010 with a starting price of 57,900 Euros.

Lamborghini has unveiled Reventon Roadster, which features the same jet fighter styling as the coupe. The roadster version is also powered by the same 6.5L V12 engine, which propels it from 0-62 mph in a very short 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 205 mph.

Only 20 Reventon Roadsters will be produced with a starting price of 1.1 million Euro. Deliveries will start next month.

Following the unveiling of the revised 2010 Volvo C30 last week, Volvo has unveiled the sportier C30 R-Design that will make an appearance in Frankfurt this week.

More than just sportier styling, the R-Design version of the C30 features more precise steering thanks to stiffer bushings, a lower steering ratio which yields a 10 percent faster response, and spring stiffness has been increased by 30 percent. According to Volvo the new sport chassis makes the C30 R-Design a more agile car. In terms of styling the C30 R-Design gets a new body kit that is painted the same color as the car and that makes the car appear lower to the ground than it acutally is. 17-inch Cratus aluminum wheels are standard, with 18" being optional.

Bugatti recently held an event to unveil its newest concept the Galibier four door supercar to its past customers and future Bugatti buyers. The Galibier is going to be officially unveiled in Frankfurt, but now we have an early look.

The Galibier concept features a two-tone exterior with polished aluminum for the doors and front fenders mated to a dark blue carbon fiber weave. The concept is powered by Bugatti's huge 8.0L W16 engine that is mounted in the front of the car. It's being reported that it will have a top speed of 217 mph.

Just in case you're wondering Galibier is the name of one of the most difficult alpine passes along the Tour de France.

Audi is set to unveil the e-Tron electric concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Audi has yet to officially release any photos or details about the concept, but these photos have surfaced today.

The e-Tron has the same profile as the R8, but with revised front and rear styling and wheels. Inside the E-Tron concept has a completely different interior compared to the R8 with a driver-focused console. It's not yet known what will power the e-Tron concept, but expect more details soon...

GM has finally announced the sale of Opel to Magna after months of debating. According to GM's press release, Magna/Sberbank will own 55 percent of Opel, while GM will retain 35 percent and employeeshttp://www.thetorquereport.com/us/sysdoc/blog/mt.cgi?__mode=view&_type=entry&blog_id=2 will hold the remaining 10 percent.

In the coming weeks binding agreements including the written support of the labor unions and a definitive financing package from the German government will be finalized.

Under the new agreement, Opel/ Vauxhall will continue to be a fully integrated part of GM's global product development organization.

Photo leaks are so common now that it was only a matter of time before photos of the upcoming drop-top version of the Audi R8 showed up. Well here you go...the first photos of the R8 Spyder are here.

Audi has yet to release the specifics of the R8 Spyder, but it is already known that it will be available with a 525-hp 5.2L V10 engine.

Rather than having a heavy retractable hardtop, Audi has equipped the R8 Spyder with a soft-top. These photos don't show the Spyder with the top up, but stay tuned for its unveiling in Frankfurt.

GM'S board is meeting again to discuss the fate of the Opel and Vauxhall brands and a decision could come out as early as today. The board is expected to hold its second round of meetings today after it failed to make a decision last month.

Currently there are two bidders for Opel, RHJ and Magna. Germany's organized labor is supporting a sale to Magna because it is expected to save more jobs in Germany. On the other hand GM is worried that a sale to Magna would hurt GM's Russian business. Although GM could delay the announcement again, political pressure may bring a decision sooner than later.

The first photos of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG have begun to leak out thanks to Australian site CarPoint.

The SLS AMG is expected to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, so it's no surprise that photos are already leaking. It is powered by a 563-hp 6.3-liter V8 with 480 lb-ft. of torque that is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The SLS AMG can reach 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 196 mph.

Production is expected to start in late 2010.

Just like the C70 convertible, Volvo has given the C30 a facelift for the 2010 model year. The revised front end is very similar to the new C70 and the S60 concept.

"The front of the Volvo C30 has become more dramatic and expressive. The angled lines of the front bumper together with the new headlamps, which are drawn offset and up, reinforce the impression of speed and sportiness," says Fedde Talsma, Exterior Chief Designer at Volvo Cars.

In addition to the styling changes, the new C30 also gets new color and wheel options and a new optional sport chassis, which lowers the car 10 mm.

Rolls Royce has released several new photos and more info about the 2011 Ghost.

The 2011 Ghost will have its official unveiling at the Frankfurt Show. It is powered by a 563-hp 6.6-liter V12 with 575 lb-ft. of torque. That's enough to propel the Ghost from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.

The Ghost was previewed by the 200EX concept earlier this year and for the most part remains unchanged.

"200EX is a modern execution of timeless Rolls-Royce elegance, breaking with some areas of tradition but retaining the core values that make our marque unique," said Chief Executive Officer Tom Purves. "We expect the more informal design to broaden the appeal of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, attracting people who appreciate its fusion of refinement, new technology and contemporary style."

Mercedes-Benz is planning on getting into the commercial van business in the US and will appoint up to 120 dealers to sell the Sprinter van. Currently Dodge sells the Sprinter van through 350 of its dealers. The contracts with the Dodge dealers will be canceled by Jan 1, 2010, which means there will no longer be a Dodge version of the Sprinter. Dodge has been selling the Sprinter since 2003.

In January the Sprinter will be branded as a Mercedes-Benz in the US. The Sprinter will be launched with a 3.0-liter, V-6 common-rail diesel in all 50 states.

BMW is only a few thousand units behind sales leader Lexus, which could mean that there could be a new top-selling luxury brand in the US by the end of the year. Lexus has been in the number 1 spot for the past nine years.

"We're really breathing down Lexus' neck," said Jim O'Donnell, CEO of BMW Group's North American sales operation, during an Automotive Press Association luncheon Tuesday.

"We were slightly ahead of Lexus (in sales) until July," he said. "But we expect business to pick up and have a strong fourth quarter. We could catch them."

Through August BMW has sold 129,176 units compared to the 131,469 units Lexus has sold.

Love the Porsche 911, but want something even more exclusive...well here you go. Porsche has unveiled the 911 Sport Classic that is only available to a very few, but lucky 250 customers.

Developed by Porsche's in house Porsche Exclusive, the 911 Sport Classic is based on the Carrera S, but features a wider body and a newly developed double-dome roof. It also features a new front apron with a unique lip spoiler and outback the rear spoiler is fixed in position like the legendary ducktail on the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7.

The 911 Sport Classic is powered by a 408-hp 3.8L mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Inside the exclusivity continues with new materials that have never been used by Porsche, such as woven leather made up of smooth leather strips and woven yarn featured on the seat centerpieces. The dashboard is finished in Espresso Nature natural leather, which is a distinctive contrast to the exclusive body paint in Sport Classic Grey.

Sales begin in Europe in January 2010 for a starting price of 169,300 Euros.

Volvo is set to unveil a revised C70 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but the first shots have been unveiled. Although Volvo has yet to release an official press release with the photos, we have our first look at the changes to the 2010 C70.

The changes to the new C70 are mainly on the exterior with new more swept back headlights, a larger grille and new taillights and rear bumper. The single interior shot doesn't look much different than the current model.

Since Volvo has yet to release a press release it's not known if there are any changes under the hood.

Stay tuned...

Yesterday Mini released the first official images of the Coupe Concept and now we have more shots of the concept that is going to be officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

VW's executives have laid out an extensive plan to improve its sales in the US and to eventually surpass Toyota in terms of both sales and profitability.

VW's goal is to sell 800,000 vehicles in the US per year by 2018, which is three times as much as the automaker is selling now. To do so VW is planning on introducing several new models that will be designed specifically for the US market. This includes a new 7-seater SUV, sedan and an updated version of the Beetle.

In order to improve profits, VW is going to start building more models in the US or Mexico. VW is currently spending $1 billion on a new plant in Chattanooga, Tenn. that will produce a new midsize sedan in 2011. The new sedan will reportedly be larger than the current Passat, but will be priced competitively to go against the Accord and Camry.

"We want to be the No. 1 automaker globally," Stefan Jacoby, VW's North American chief said during a briefing at VW's U.S. headquarters in Virginia. "Not everybody believes in this goal. We believe in this vision we have, and we are working very hard on its realization.

VW plans to refresh its entire lineup by 2011. Additionally VW is making efforts to improve its quality.

VW has unveiled the three-door version of its popular Polo. For fuel conscious buyers VW is offering a new BlueMotion model, which only burns 3.3L of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers (71 mpg U.S.) The BlueMotion Polo will be available in either the three or five-door variants.

The three-door features an almost invisible B-pillar and more slender C-pillar than the five-door to give it a sportier appearance. The exterior, interior and cargo dimensions are identical to the five-door.

In total VW is offering the Polo with six engines, three gas and three diesel. An automatic 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) is also being offered for the first time.

Porsche has unveiled the new 911 GT3 Cup ahead of its official unveiling in Frankfurt.

The 911 GT3 Cup racing car is based on the 911 GT3 RS for the first time ever. It features a body that is now 1.73" wider at the rear, which provides more space for larger wheels in addition to wider wheel arches at the front. The front spoiler lip is almost 0.6" lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle. Downforce on the rear axle is also increased due to an enlarged rear wing.

The 450-hp 3.8L engine is borrowed from the 911 GT3 RS, which is more powerful than the previous 3.6L engine.

The 911 GT3 Cup is only available in Carrera White and will set you back 150,000 euros.

Land Rover showed off the LRX concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year. The two-door concept was based on the same platform as the current Freelander/ LR2. It's expected that this coming June Land Rover is going to unveil the production version to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original unveiling of the first Land Rover. The actual date is June 17th and the LRX could be positioned as the new more environmentally friendly face of Range Rover.

Sources are claiming that the small SUV will enter production in 2011 as a 2012 model. Production would take place at at Land Rover's Halewood facility in the UK, which currently produces the LR2. In addition to gasoline and diesel powered models, a hybrid may also be in the works.

Mini is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the the public debut of the original Mini. To celebrate 50 years, Mini has unveiled the MINI Coupe Concept, which takes the Mini style even further. The MINI Coupe Concept features only two seats, but as a more speedster style than the current Mini convertible. It has a more swept back windshield and a roof design that cuts out the rear seats. The concept is 146.2" long, 66.3" wide and 53.4" tall.

The MINI Coupe Concept is designed to accommodate even the most powerful of the Mini engines, the the 1.6L twin-scroll turbocharged unit from Mini John Cooper Works. It puts out 211-hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, which can be increased to 206 lb-ft for a short period.

At this point it's not known if the MINI Coupe Concept will enter production, but it will have its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month, in addition to the production version of the Mini crossover.

According to sources over at MotoringFile, BMW is set to unveil two new MINI models in Frankfurt next month. The MINI Speedster concept, which is a sportier alternative to the convertible Cooper is set to be unveiled at the show. In addition, the Crossman R60 crossover is also going to be at the show.

If the guys over at MotoringFile are correct, we should expect to see an online unveiling of the two models sometime this week.

GM's board declined to name a winning bidder for the Open brand last Friday as was expected. Instead the automaker decided to ask the German government more information about state financing for the buyers.

The German government has been pressuring GM to announce the sale of Opel to Magna and its Russian partners, since it would mean that more jobs would stay in Germany. Although it seems that GM is preferring a sale to Brussels-based financial investor RHJ International. So rather than announce the sale on Friday, GM's board wanted to find out how much money RHJ would get from the government if they were chosen. It's also being reported that the reason that GM is keen on selling Opel to RHJ is because it would include a buy-back option.

Either way the German government is not happy about the delay and Opel's labor leader Klaus Franz has threatened "spectacular measures" if a decision is not made this week.

Maserati has unveiled the Maserati GranCabrio ahead of its official unveiling at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show next month. The GranCabrio is the Maserati's first ever four-seat convertible.

Unlike most new luxury convertibles, the GranCabrio features a folding cloth top. It is powered by the 4.7L V8 with 433 horsepower from the GranTurismo S. Maserati also boasts that the GranCabrio is the convertible with the longest wheelbase on the market.

The Maserati GranCabrio will hit showrooms next spring, but stay tuned for more details next month.

Porsche has unveiled the 2010 911 GT3 RS ahead of its official unveiling in Frankfurt.

The racing version of the 911 GT3 is powered by the same naturally aspirated 3.8L six-cylinder as the the regular GT3, but it has 450 horsepower, compared to 435. It also features an 8,500 rpm redline. The six-speed manual transmission has shorter ratios to give it even more speed on the track. A new option is a lithium ion battery that replaces the the conventional lead-acid battery and reduces the vehicles weight by 22 lbs.

Handling has been improved with a purpose-built PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) suspension and a wider front and rear track.

The 2010 911 GT3 RS goes on sale next spring with a starting price of $132,800.

GM and Koenigsegg have announced that a deal has been finalized between the two over the sale of Saab. The deal involves a 100 percent sale of Saab to Koenigsegg by the end of the year. The final piece of the deal involves funding from the European Investment Bank in the amount of 4.3 billion kronor, which is dependent on the Swedish government.

The exact price that Koenigsegg is paying for Saab has not been disclosed, but according to sources it is very low.

Following yesterday's photo leakage of the 2010 E-Class Estate, Mercedes has officially unveiled more images and info about the E-Class wagon, which officially joins the sedan and coupe variants.

The 2010 E-Class Estate gets a plethora of diesel and gas powered engines for Europe, while the US reportedly must make due only with the the E350 4matic variant. An E63 Estate is reportedly in the works, but who knows if it will come to the US. Especially since most car buyers in the US aren't fond of wagons...

The interior is largely carried over from the sedan, but there is a very retro-feeling rear-facing third seat that brings up not so fond memories of 70s and 80s station wagons.

The E-Class Estate (wagon) will make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer recently told Reuters that BMW is going to launch a series of electric vehicles under its own brand, which kills reports of a stand alone fourth brand being created.

Instead of creating a fourth brand, BMW's board has decided to create a sub-brand for the new vehicles, kind of like the M sub-brand that is used for BMW's performance vehicles.

It's MINI's 50th anniversary and BMW is set to show off two special edition models to celebrate the the event, the MINI 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month.

In addition to the birthday editions over at the MINI stand, BMW is set to have the official world premiere of the Rolls-Royce Ghost. Additionally the full fleet of the BMW EfficientDynamics models will be shown off over at the BMW stand. The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and BMW ActiveHybrid X6 will also premiere.

MINI USA has been trying to build a case to bring the diesel powered MINI to the US for some time now, but it looks like that isn't going to happen.

The main reason that we will not see a diesel powered MINI anytime soon has to do with costs. It would cost the automaker a significant investment to convert the European-spec diesel engine to US standards. Even if MINI were to charge 10-15% more for the diesel powered model, the automaker would still lose money. Charging 40-50% more would pay for the development costs, but who would actually buy it at that price? So it looks like we will have to wait another 4-5 years to get the diesel when the next-generation MINI is released.

Plans are still up in the air for an R60 based Cooper S D to make it to the US, but we'll see...

Ferrari has officially unveiled the mid-engined V8 replacement for the Ferrari F430, the Ferrari 458 Italia.

The 458 Italia will be officially unveiled to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, but Ferrari has been nice enough to release some of the info early. The 458 is powered by a 4.5L V8 that pumps out 562 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. The power is put to the ground through a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. 0-62 mph comes in a fast 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 202 mph.

Small cars don't usually do that well in the US, wIth the exception of a few models such as the Honda Fit and Mini, many of the small cars sold here are not that great. Especially the current small cars from Detroit. Because of this many US car buyers stay away from the sector, which means tiny sales and even tinier profits for automakers. Alfa Romeo's MiTo would be a great competitor to the Mini, but CEO Sergio Cravero recently stated that the small Alfa may not be coming here.

"A preliminary product assessment for a sporty three-door small hatchback showed potential volumes in the U.S. right now are roughly 20,000 units a year," Cravero said. "That is not enough to make it a viable business case."

Of course this could all change if US car buyers start buying more small cars. In the meantime we will be getting a five-door mid-sized hatchback, named the Milano in 2011.

BMW's first hybrid, a hybrid version of the X6 is expected to be released by the end of the year. The X6 hybrid in these photos was caught near BMW's Spartenburg, SC plant.

The 2010 BMW X6 ActiveHybrid is supposedly already rolling off the production line, which means we will start seeing it at dealers in the next few months. The X6's two-mode hybrid system is the same system used in GM's full-size hybrids and Chrysler's now dead Durango and Aspen hybrids. Although the system has been BMW-ized in the X6 hybrid. The system should improve mpg numbers by 20 percent over the regular X6. Prices are expected to start around $70k.

Audi has announced the pricing for the 2010 R8, including the new V10 powered R8.

The 2010 Audi R8 4.2 FSI quattro starts at $114,200, which is unchanged from the 2009 model, while the R8 5.2 FSI quattro starts at $146,000. The V10 powered R8 puts out 525-hp and 391 lb-ft of torque and reaches 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds.

"The R8 is a proven worldwide success story for Audi," said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. "The positive effects of the vehicle on dealers, customers, and Audi fans alike have exceeded all expectations. The addition of the V10-powered R8 5.2 FSI quattro adds further equity into the already sought-after R8 nameplate and the Audi brand."

Thanks to Autobild we now have our first look at the 2010 Saab 9-5.

Stay tuned as more info comes in.

Rolls Royce has released the official horsepower numbers of the Rolls Royce Ghost. The Ghost's 6.6-liter, twin-turbo V12 pumps out 563 hp and 575 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission. The Ghost reaches 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

Rolls Royce also confirmed that sales of the Ghost in the UK and Europe will begin late in 2009 with pricing from £165,000.

J.D. Power and Associates has released the results of the 2009 Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) Study. For the fifth straight consecutive year Porsche tops the list as the industry's most appealing brand in the U.S.

The top three brands this year were Porsche, Jaguar, and Cadillac.

"Most automakers are on track in terms of designing new models that are highly appealing," said David Sargent, vice president of automotive research at J.D. Power and Associates. "The greater challenge for manufacturers lies in creating models that launch with both strong appeal and high quality, which ultimately lead to improved sales through greater customer loyalty and advocacy."

Volkswagen managed to take four of the segment awards, while Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan each garner two awards.

Jaguar has announced plans today to kill the slow selling X-Type and to lay off 300 workers at its Halewood plant in the north of England.

"Our industry has been especially badly hit by the recession and the premium sector more than others. Jaguar Land Rover's retail sales fell by 28 percent in the past 10 months," Chief Executive David Smith said in a statement.

The X-Type has been in production for the last 8 years and Jaguar has sold over 350,000 units. Production of the X-Type was originally planned to cease in mid-2010.

In addition to killing the X-Type by the end of the year, Jaguar is going to shut down the Halewood plant for three weeks to keep inventory levels in check.

Spy photos of MINI's upcoming crossover, which is based on the also new BMW X1 have been all over the place lately. Although the crossover has been confirmed and is expected to be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, we have yet to learn what the crossover is going to be named...until now. It looks like BMW AG (parent company of BMW and MINI) has officially registered the "Countryman" name for trademark for the new MINI crossover.

In the past the Countryman name was used for long-wheelbase versions of the Cooper in specific markets.

A company spokesperson recently told Reuters that VW is going to invest $1 billion in its Mexico plant to build a new model that will launch in early 2010.

Currently the plant produces Jettas, Boras and New Beetles.

"The production of the new model will start in March or April of 2010," spokeswoman Consuelo Minutti said.

Minutti did not disclose which new vehicle VW plans to produce at the plant.

Fiat has launched the 500 Abarth Competizione, which commemorates the first anniversary of Abarth's return to the Dutch market. Only 10 units will be produced with prices starting at €24,995 ($35,214 USD). The extra €3,000 premium over the the stock 500 Abarth gets you a black roof, black 17" wheels and matching black graphics. Inside there are new bucket seats and an upgraded audio system.

Jaguar took the wraps off the 2010 XJ last week in London and according to the automaker there have already been at least 55 pre-orders.

55 orders in a matter of days may not seem like much, but according to Jaguar that is about the same numbers it received when the XF was unveiled. Some of the orders were placed at the XJ's launch at the Saatchi Gallery in London last week and the rest have come from people who haven't even seen the car in person. Production is expected to start this fall, with sales starting in January.

Peugeot has released a few teaser photos of the production version of the RC Z sports coupe that was unveiled in concept form in 2007.

The 308 RC Z is about the same size as the Audi TT and will be powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder. Final specs have not been released, but we can expect to see it at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Jaguar has officially taken the wraps off the 2010 XJ in London that goes on sale in December 2009, with deliveries starting in early 2010.

The new XJ looks somewhat like a larger XF with coupe-like roofline and a rear end that is a big departure for Jaguar. There's also a standard panoramic roof.
The 2010 XJ will be available in regular and extended wheelbase versions.

In the US we will have a choice of three engines: a 385-hp 5.0L V8, 470-hp 5.0L supercharged V8 and a 510-hp 5.0L supercharged V8.

Pricing for the 2010 Jaguar XJ starts at $72,500.

Hertz Italiana has just announced that the Lotus Elise SC is joining the Italian rental fleet.

"I am delighted that Lotus Cars has entered into this agreement with Hertz, giving us the opportunity to make our stunning world class sportscars available to the rental market," Mr. Michael J. Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus said. "The iconic and multi award winning Lotus Elise and the stunning Lotus Exige are the perfect fun rental cars for those who desire exclusive and high performance motoring."

This summer Hertz Italiana will be offering the Lotus Elise SC at select rental locations throughout the country, which probably won't be cheap.

Once the BMW 5 Series GT hits the US, it may jeopardize the existence of the 5 Series wagon in the US according to some BMW officials.

The BMW 5 Series wagon barely registers a blip on the radar and once the Gran Turismo is released the little demand for the wagon may be gone. No official decision has been made, but don't expect to see a wagon version of the next 5 Series on our shores.

Volvo has announced, as expected, the introduction of the XC60 R-Design, which adds more "sport" to the exterior and chassis.

On the exterior the R-Design package adds door mirror housings, trim moldings and décor trim in matte silk metal finish, skid-plates and twin chrome tailpipes. The five-spoke Cratus aluminum wheels are also unique and are available in either 18-inch or 20-inches. The lower section of the XC60 is also color matched to the exterior with the R-Design package.

A more direct steering gear has also been added to add more sportiness to the driving experience, due to its faster steering response.

The R-Design package for the XC60 will have its public debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show and will go on sale shortly after that.

The upcoming 2010 Porsche Panamera is set to have its U.S. debut at the 2009 Pebble Beach Conours d'Elegance, which runs from August 9-16.

Porsche's first four-door sedan is expected in showrooms in October with pricing ranging from $89,800-$132,600.

VW has released its sales totals for the month of June 2009 and although VW sales were down 18 percent compared to the same month in 2008, VW has announced strong sales of its diesel powered models. Diesel powered versions of the Jetta, Jetta SportWagen and Touareg totaled 5,072 units, which accounted for 26 percent of VW's total sales last month.

Clean diesel TDI's accounted for 81 percent of SportWagen sales, 40 percent of Jetta sedan sales, and 29 percent of Touareg sales.

After all the photo leaks yesterday, BMW has officially released more photos of the X1 and released a brief press release which states that the X1 will be offered in the US, sometime in 2011.

The X1 will debut this fall in Europe with a choice of either three diesel engines or a gas engine. It will also be available in either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations.

BMW hasn't officially announced which configurations the US will receive in 2011.

BMW has announced that the 2010 BMW 7 Series will be offered with the xDrive AWD system for the first time ever.

The 2010 BMW 750i and 750Li will be offered with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. In addition the 2010 model year also sees the introduction of the V12 powered 760Li model, which brings the total to five variants of the 7 Series.

A new M Sport package is also available on the 2010 7 Series. The package includes an M steering wheel, lift-reducing aerodynamic kit, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), Shadowline trim, Anthracite headliner and 19″ wheels with ultra-high performance tires. 20" wheels are also available.

After many spy photos and teasers, BMW has finally released the official photos of the 2010 X1.

In Europe the X1 will be offered mainly offered with diesel engine choices with the most powerful model being the xDrive23d with 201-hp and 295 lb-ft. of torque. The most powerful gas powered engine will be the xDrive28i with 258-hp and 228 lb-ft. of torque.

The X1 is expected to be launched by the end of this year with sales starting in the US early next year. Expect more details once the official US press release is available.

Jaguar has announced the introduction of the 2010 Jaguar XF Supercharged, which brings the total XF models to four.

The XF Supercharged is powered by a 470 hp version of the 5.0-liter supercharged AJ-V8 Gen III engine and reaches 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. It slots in below the 510-hp XFR in the lineup and will start at $68,000 when it hits showrooms this October.

Just as the CLK has officially been renamed the E-Class coupe, Mercedes is also going to rename the revised CL the S-Class coupe when it launches for the 2011 model year.

The S-Class coupe will feature a facelifted front fascia with a more upright grille and LED headlights. Outback there will be new LED taillights and a new bumper design.
(2009 model pictured above)

The all-new Opel Astra is set to be officially unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show this September and now comes word that a two-seat convertible variant is in the works.

The new Astra convertible will replace the Astra TwinTop in the lineup and will only seat two. It will feature a retractable hardtop and will be sportier than the old TwinTop. The interior will be similar to the hatchback, but with sportier seats and more luxury appointments.

The two-seater is expected to go head to head with the Mini and VW's upcoming roadster.

More bad news for Detroit's automakers, a new study from Grant Thornton LLP's Corporate Advisory and Restructuring Service estimates that by 2012 they will produce less vehicles on US soil than their Asian and European competitors.

Although domestic automakers are expected to return to profitability by 2012, their production will be outpaced by import automakers like Toyota, VW, Hyundai and Honda. The estimated projection is that domestic automakers will reduce production in the US by 35 percent, while import automakers will increase US production by 20 percent. The final total from Chrysler, Ford and GM is estimated at 7.5 million with all other automakers coming in at a combined 8 million units.

Grant Thornton Principal Kimberly Rodriguez stated "Suppliers largely dependent on Detroit OEMs will have to present a new value equation to potential customers from Europe and Asia if they want to participate in the accelerated shift that is coming."

J.D. Power and Associates has released its 2009 Initial Quality Study (IQS) with Lexus taking the lead this year with only 84 problems per 100 vehicles.

This year's top five nameplates were Lexus followed by Porsche, Cadillac, Hyundai and Honda. Hyundai managed to move up to the number 4 spot from 13th position in 2008 and Cadillac moved up from the 10th spot in 2008.

Suzuki managed to have the most gains this year moving up to the 9th spot from the 32nd spot last year.

The study also claims that domestic automakers improved their quality by 10 percent compared to 2008, which is higher than the 8 percent industry average.

Yesterday Audi released two teaser images of the upcoming Audi A5 Sportback, which will debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Now comes word that Audi has no plans to bring the vehicle to the US.

The A5 Sportback will be available with a choice of two gasoline or three diesel engines. The two gas engines will be the 211-hp 2.0L TFSI and the 265-hp 3.2L V6. The diesel options are a 170-hp 2.0L, 190-hp 2.7L and a 240-hp 3.0L V6.

The reason that Audi is claiming that the A5 Sportback is not slated to come to the US is because the larger Audi Sportback Concept, dubbed the A7 is expected to come here. The A7 will mainly compete with the Mercedes CLS.

Luxury car maker Koenigsegg and a group of Norwegian investors have signed a letter of intent with GM to take over Saab according to Swedish television.

Final details of the deal have not been finalized.

A CAR Online reader (Simon Gregg) spotted the upcoming Aston Martin Rapide testing in the UK sans camouflage. The production version of the Rapide is expected to be unveiled this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show and go on sale in early 2010.

The Rapide is expected to be powered by the automaker's 6.0L V12 with approximately with 470 hp and 443 lb-ft. ot torque.

Fiat has officially closed the deal and taken over Chrysler this morning. The takeover now means that Fiat's Chief Executive Sergio Marchionne will become CEO of Chrysler.

Fiat is now going to start transferring Fiat's technology, platforms and powertrains to Chrysler plants. Chrysler's plants are also going to resume production soon, since they were idled during the bankruptcy process and cost the automaker up to $100 million a day.

"We intend to build on Chrysler's culture of innovation and Fiat's complementary technology and expertise to expand Chrysler's product portfolio both in North America and overseas," Marchionne said.

"This morning's closing represents a proud moment in Chrysler's storied history," said the U.S. Treasury Department. "The Chrysler-Fiat Alliance has now exited the bankruptcy process and is poised to emerge as a competitive, viable automaker."

Fiat currently owns a 20 percent stake in Chrysler, which will eventually be increased to 35 percent, but Fiat cannot gain majority control until all taxpayer funds are repaid.

BMW has released a few official photos of the upcoming X1 draped in camouflage.

According to TimesOnline there will be three engine choices in Europe: a 177hp diesel and 204hp diesel, and a gas powered 272bhp 3.0L V6. The US is likely to only receive the V6 when the X1 is released here.

We can expect to see the official production version of the X1 at the Frankfurt Motor Sow this September.

BMW has officially released the specs and more photos of the 2010 5 Series Gran Turismo.

The 2010 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo doesn't stray far from the concept version that was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. It basically gets smaller wheels and a more production friendly interior. According to BMW the 5 Series GT "combines elegance, space, comfort and variability in truly unique style." The design features a coupe-like roofline and frameless windows.

Europe will have the choice of three different engines, the 306hp 535i, 407hp 550i and the 235hp 530d. All three engines are mated to a eight-speed automatic transmission.

BMW hasn't announced which models will make it to the US.

This fall VW is going to release a more powerful Scirocco, dubbed the Scirocco R.

The more powerful Scirocco R gets the engine from the Audi S3, which thanks to a bigger turbo, uprated pistons, and high-pressure injectors puts out 265 horsepower. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual or the DSG. Unfortunately the power is still put to the ground only via the front wheels. The ride has also been lowered and there are larger brakes.

The R version of the Scirocco is distinguishable by a new body kit, spoiler, sports seats and R badges.

Too bad US drivers can only drool over this car, since VW has no plans to bring either version of the Scirocco to the US.

BMW has created a new concept of the X6 that no one has probably asked for, although a few ambulance drivers may rejoice. The BMW X6 xDrive50i Ambulance concept is going to be shown off at the upcoming RETTmobil rescue vehicle show in Fulda, Germany.

The concept is powered by the 407hp twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 and is being positioned as the first responder vehicle, which would carry a doctor or paramedic to a scene before the actual ambulance. Which is a good thing because its doubtful that an X6 ambulance could hold nearly as much as a regular ambulance.

Following yesterday's photo leaks, GM has officially unveiled the next-generation 2010 Opel Astra ahead of its unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall.

The 2010 Astra borrows styling cues from the mid-size Insignia. The new Astra has more interior room thanks to a longer wheelbase. It also features a cab-forward design that exhibits Opel's new design language, sculptural artistry combined with German precision. The wing and blade design cues on the exterior are also used on the inside.

There are a total of eight engines that will be offered, four diesel and four gasoline powered. The diesel engines range in size from 1.3L to 2.0L units, putting out between 95- 160 horsepower. The four gasoline engines put out from 100hp to 180hp.

Now that Saturn is dead, it's been rumored that Buick will receive this new Astra.

Although the Saturn Astra may be dead, the US may still get the next Astra under the Buick brand. The first photos of the all-new Astra (Euro-spec) have surfaced.

The new Astra is based on the Delta platform, which underpins the Chevy Cruze and upcoming Volt. The sixth-generation Astra will be powered by a normally aspirated gasoline1.4L four-cylinder according to CarScoop and turbocharged variants will also be offered. A turbocharged 180-hp 1.6L is also expected. In regards to diesel powerplants, a range of diesels will also be available, including 1.3, 1.7 and 2.0L variants.

CarScoop also claims that the five-door Astra will hit showrooms this fall and a three-door GTC coupe is expected to follow. A wagon, four-door sedan, and a retractable hardtop model are also expected.

Now we just have to wait and see if the Astra makes it to the US, even though GM's ownership of Opel may soon be over.

Audi insiders have confirmed that the automaker is working on a convertible version of the R8 supercar that will be released in 2011.

The details are scarce, but the R8 convertible is expected to have a full length convertible roof that will likely be a made of fabric since the R8's mid-engine layout leaves no room for a retractable hardtop. Audi also has a preference for soft tops.

There has been no confirmation if the R8 convertible will be powered by the R8's V8 or V10 engines.

VW's North American CEO, Stefan Jacoby recently revealed more info about VW's upcoming mid-sized sedan.

In an interview with Automotive News, Jacoby discussed the upcoming sedan that will be built at VW's new plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The un-named sedan will hit the market in the spring of 2012 with a price tag around $20,000. It will be powered by VW's current 2.0L and 2.5L engines. No official photos are renderings of the car have been released, but the styling was finalized a few weeks ago. The car is expected to be larger and sleeker than the current Passat.

We've been hearing rumors for a while that BMW and Mercedes-Benz are considering bringing back 4-cylinders to the US to cut their brand's overall fuel economy.

BMW is currently working on a turbocharged, direct-injected four-cylinder that will likely be used in the 1 and 3 Series sometime around 2012. The new four-cylinder is expected to have the similar horsepower numbers as the current in-line sixes, but with better gas mileage and lower emissions. The engine is also slated for the X1 and new X3. BMW is waiting to decide on the engine for the U.S. until Washington releases what the new fuel economy standards will be.

Mercedes-Benz hasn't released any details on what the possible 4-cylinder engines could be, although a 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel was shown in the E250 Bluetech concept. A four-cylinder will most likely be offered in the C-Class and GLK within the next few years.

Mercedes-Benz unlike many other automakers hasn't changed its emblem, And to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the three-pointed star emblem, the automaker is releasing a special anniversary edition of the Mercedes-Benz CL Coupe.

Mercedes chose the CL-Class because "it has been acknowledged as a masterpiece of automobile engineering since its inception." The 382-hp special CL550 4MATIC "100 Years of Mercedes-Benz Edition" features a paint finish from the designo collection, he AMG Sports package, premium leather, black piano lacquer trim and beautifully executed emblems of the original trademarks inset into the center console.

A limited number of the special edition coupes will go on sale this summer.

Audi has decided to not offer the 3.2L V6 in many of its models for the 2010 model year. The 2010 A3, A4 and TT will have to make due with the four-cylinder 2.0T engine.

Most A4s that currently leave dealer lots are usually equipped with the 2.0T, so its not a big surprise that Audi has decided to not offer the 250-hp V6 anymore. If you want something more powerful than the 2.0T in the A4 you will have to move up to the upcoming S4, which will be powered by same supercharged 3.0L V6 as the A6.

Jaguar has released a teaser image of the upcoming 2010 XJ sedan that will officially be unveiled on July 9th.

The next-generation Xj will feature an aerospace-inspired aluminum body and will be available in standard and long wheelbase versions. The XJ will be powered by a series of V6 and V8 engines, including the 510-hp supercharged, direct-injection, 5.0-liter V8.

The XJ will also feature the same JaguarDrive gear selector as the XF with paddle shifters.

The 2010 Jaguar XF is expected to hit showrooms in early 2010.

VW and Chrysler thought it would be a cool idea to take the Dodge Caravan and stick a VW front end on it and an interesting name, but apparently no one else does. Sales of the VW Routan have been so slow that it hasn't been produced since December at Chrysler’s Windsor, Ontario plant.

Production isn't expected to restart since of the 22,037 Routans produced, only 5,582 have been sold.

Fiat's CEO, Sergio Marchionne has told the Globe and Mail and mail that the possible partnership with Chrysler will succeed if the automaker cannot cut labor costs.

Marchionne told the newspaper that the partnership only has a 50-50 chance because of the lack of progress in talks with union leaders. He also stated that Canadian unions have been especially resistant.

"Absolutely we are prepared to walk. There is no doubt in my mind," Marchionne said in an interview posted on the Toronto newspaper's website.

In order for the partnership to work, Chrysler's unions need to agree to labor costs that are equal to that of Japanese and German automakers.

The latest version of the proposed partnership between Fiat and Chrysler states that Fiat would take a 20 percent stake in Chrysler in exchange for the technology to make small cars and access to foreign markets. Fiat would also gain access to the US market.

Fiat and Chrysler have until the April 30th deadline to finalize the deal. If a deal is not reached Chrysler will be forced into bankruptcy. If a deal is reached the U.S. government will provide an additional $6 billion in funding.

Although Opel and Vauxhaull's parent company GM may be having some financial problems, Opel and Vauxhall are still moving ahead with the unveiling of the 325 horsepower Insignia.

The Vauxhall version of the hot Insignia is dubbed the Insignia VXR and the Opel version is dubbed the Insignia OPC. No matter which name the Insignia receives, both models feature the same turbocharged V6 and Nurburgring-proven chassis.

Under the hood there is a turbocharged 2.8L V6 that puts out 325 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. That's 25 more horsepower than in the Saab 9-3 Turbo-X, which uses the same engine. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual that puts the power to the ground via all four wheels. According to the automaker the car reaches 0-62 mph in 6 seconds.

Deliveries are expected to start this fall.

Mercedes has decided to not replace the CLK63 AMG.

The CLK is officially being replaced by the larger E-Class coupe in Mercedes lineup and Mercedes has stated that it has no plans to release an AMG version of the new coupe. The apparent reason has to do with the positioning of the new coupe. The E-Class coupe moves up a class from the old CLK and Mercedes feels that an E-Class AMG coupe would be too close CLS63 both in positioning and price.

Aston Martin has officially uncovered the upcoming four-door Rapide with the release of a single side image.

From the single photo, its apparent that the production version remains very close to the original show car that first appeared in 2006. One noteworthy design element is what Aston Martin refers to as "swan wing" doors. The two rear doors rise upwards and outwards as they swing open.

Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr. Ulrich Bez said: “The Rapide will be the most elegant four-door sports car in the world. It completes the Aston Martin range conveying our established attributes of Power, Beauty and Soul.

When the Rapide is finally released it will be powered by 470 horsepower 6.0L V12 engine that is mated to a Touchtronic transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels.

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the hybrid version of the ML SUV, dubbed the ML 450 Hybrid in New York.

The ML 450 Hybrid is powered by 3.5L Atkinson V6 mated to a two-mode hybrid system that results in a final output of 335 horsepower and 381 lf-ft of torque. The system manages to get 21 mpg city and 24 mpg on the highway and is classified as a SULEV (Super Ultra Low Emisssion Vehicle).

The two-mode hybrid system is Mercedes first application of the system that it co-developed with GM and Chrysler.

Last week word leaked that VW had officially decided to not bring the Scirocco to the US, via a dealer communication, but no official word had been stated to the press..until now.

Tom Wegehaupt, Volkswagen' of America's public relations coordinator, officially told Autoblog that the VW has decided to not bring the Scirocco to the US due to fears of the model cannibalizing sales of the new GTI and the sad state of the auto market.

It looks like fans that were eagerly awaiting the return of the Scirocco in the US will have to move across the Atlantic if they ever want to own the new one.

BMW has officially unveiled the M versions of the X5 and X6 Sports Activity Vehicles.

The 2010 BMW X5 M and X6 M are powered by a twin turbocharged 4.4L V8 that puts out 555 hp and 500 lb-ft. of torque that is mated to a 6-speed M Sports Automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The M versions of the X5 and X6 are the first all-wheel-drive BMW M models. All that power returns a 4.5 second 0-60 mph time.

As expected there are some changes to the exterior of the two models to differentiate them from their lesser powered brothers. The hood, front air dam and headlights are nearly identical on the two models. Both models feature special gills in the front fenders and 20-inch alloy wheels are also standard. Out back there are quad tailpipes.

For those of you that want the the 555 horsepower, but in a sedan or coupe package, you'll have to wait for the next M5 and M6, which will feature the same turbocharged 4.4L V8.

BMW has announced what models we can expect to see at the New York Auto Show next week.

The BMW X6 M will officially be unveiled alongside the new Z4 roadster, the 2009 7 Series, and the BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance models.

The 2010 BMW 5 Series and 6 Series will also debut at the show with updated navigation systems from the new 7 Series and the availability of an M Sport package.

There is still no word on the X5 M.

The 2009 New York Auto Show is almost upon us and the news is starting to trickle in about what we can expect to see next week. Mercedes is going to unveil the E63 AMG version of the all-new E-Class.

The 2010 E63 AMG is powered by a 6.3L V8 that puts out 518 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch Speedshift transmission. The E63 AMG reaches 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited).

The optional AMG Performance Package raises the top speed to 186 mph and also comes with a performance suspension with stiffer springs rates, ightweight 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, AMG rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action, and a performance steering wheel.

As it was rumored last week, VW has officially changed the Rabbit name once again back to the Golf for the U.S. market.

2009 will be the last year that VW's popular hatchback will be called the Rabbit. For the 2010 model year the Golf name will return on an all-new model.

"The Golf is an iconic nameplate for the Volkswagen Brand and it is known throughout the world," said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "The Golf is Volkswagen's best selling global nameplate with more than 26 million units sold in over 120 countries."

The 6th generation Golf will have its U.S. debut at the New York Auto Show and be on sale this fall.

VW has unveiled the Golf GTD, which is the equivalent of a sporty GTI, but with a diesel engine.

The VW Golf GTD is powered by a 170 horsepower diesel engine that can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed DSG transmission, just like the GTI. It accelerates from 0-62 mph in 8.1 seconds, has a top speed of 137 mph and uses just 5.3 litres fuel per 100 kilometres (44 mpg US).

The Golf GTD also features a sport suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels. The designs of the front bumper, the radiator grille and the headlights are also identical to those of the GTI.

It's been rumored for a while that BMW has been working on a smaller roadster that will be dubbed the Z2 and according to AutoBild, BMW executives have now given the small roadster the green light.

The Z2 will be based on the 1 series and will be offered as a roadster and a small coupe, just like the previous Z4. The car was developed under BMW's Project i team and will be a front-engine, rear wheel drive car with a target weight of 2,200 lbs. Powertrain options are expected to be powered by a 1.6L turbocharged engine, an extended range hybrid, and an all electric motor with lithium-ion batteries.

A concept version is expected this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show and the production version is expected in 2012 or 2013.

Audi has announced the world premiere of the Audi TT RS Roadstar at the Leipzig Motor Show next week.

The Audi TT RS Roadster is powered by a 340 horsepower turbocharged 2.5L engine that propels the car from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds. It features all-wheel-drive and an ungraded suspension with high-performance brakes.

The Audi A4 allroad quattro, Audi A5 Cabriolet, S5 Cabriolet and Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro are also going to have their premieres at the show.

Over 30 years ago, the successor of the VW Beetle, the Golf was dubbed the Rabbit in the US. So while the rest of the world had the Golf, we had the the same vehicle as the Rabbit. Eventually the Rabbit name was killed due to quality issues with the first generation, and we got the Golf in the US.

Three years ago VW decided to revive the Rabbit nameplate, "Volkswagen customers want a relationship with their cars. Names like The Thing, Beetle, Fox, and Rabbit support this."

Well the sales proved that US customers didn't really care about the Rabbit nameplate, so it looks like its back to Golf for the next generation.

"The car will be called the Golf again in North America," Jochen Sengpiehl, executive director of Volkswagen marketing, recently told Motor Trend.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has launched a new roof strength rating system and has chosen to put 12 small SUVs up to the test.

More than 10,000 people are killed a year in rollovers and SUVs rank higher compared to cars and minivans.

In the Institute's roof strength test, a metal plate is pushed against 1 side of a roof at a constant speed. To earn a good rating, the roof must withstand a force of 4 times the vehicle's weight before reaching 5 inches of crush. This is called a strength-to-weight ratio. For an acceptable rating, the minimum required strength-to-weight ratio is 3.25. A marginal rating value is 2.5. Anything lower than that is poor.

Only 4 of the small SUVs earned the top rating of good: VW Tiguan, Subaru Forester, Honda Element and Jeep Patriot. the VW Tiguan had the strongest roof out of all the SUVs tested. The Suzuki Grand Vitara, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and Mitsubishi Outlander are rated acceptable. Roofs on the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape are marginal, and the Kia Sportage received a poor rating.

VW has announced that the sixth-generation of the iconic VW Golf GTI will be hitting dealerships in Germany in a few days. The more exciting news is that the new GTI will be available in North America by late summer.

The Mark VI builds upon the successes of the current generation with slightly more aggressive styling and a front-end similar to the Scirocco. The GTI is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 210 horsepower (up 10). It reaches 0-62 mph in 6.9 seconds. The GTI is available with either a six-speed manual or the six-speed dual clutch transmission (DSG). The DSG equipped GTI achieves the same 0-62 mph time as the manual.

Rolls Royce unveiled the 200EX concept at the Geneva Moor Show earlier this month and now has officially confirmed that the production version, dubbed the RR4 will be powered by a new 6.6L V12 engine that will have "upwards of 500bhp."

The V12 engine will be mated to a new ZF 8-speed transmission.

CEO Tom Purves confirmed the details at a press event in New York where the 200EX is currently starting a world tour. Purves claims that the RR4 will be more involving and dynamic for those owners that would rather drive than be driven.

Autocar is reporting that Lamborghini has shelved plans to build the Estoque four-door concept, an apparent victim of the current economic situation.

Maurizio Reggiani, Lamorghini's head of research and development stated "The timing and market conditions are just not right for an additional model line."

The Estoque concept was a four door, four seat concept that featured a front/mid engine layout with standard all-wheel-drive.

According to Reggiani, the Estoque has been put on hold for the time being, which means that the project could be restarted once the economy improves.

BMW unveiled the 5 Series Gran Turismo concept at the Geneva Motor Show now we have our first unofficial look at the production version.

As expected the production version remains mostly true to the concept, but with a much more toned down interior. Expect the production version to have its official world debut sometime later this year.

It's being rumored that Audi engineers are working on an even more powerful A3, dubbed the RS3 that could borrow the 340 horsepower engine from the 2010 TT RS.

Michael Dick a member of Audi's technical development management board told Autovisie Magazine that an RS3 could be in the future and could be powered by the direct injection turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder that powers the TT RS and propels it from 0-62 mph in 4.6 seconds.

VW is planning on selling two versions of its compact Polo in the US, a sedan that is smaller than the current Jetta and a four-door hatchback that will be roomier than the model unveiled in Geneva earlier this month.

Volkswagen Group of America CEO Stefan Jacoby claims that both versions will be designed specifically for the U.S. Jacoby recently spoke with the Automotive News and stated that although the new Polo is larger than its predecessor, its still too small for the US market. The US version will be taller and have a larger wheelbase.

"It's more like a cross between a compact minivan and a hatchback. In other words, it's more like the Honda Fit," Jacoby said.

Jacoby also said the Polo must be priced between $13,000 and $15,000 in the United States. Sales could start in 2011.

According to CAR, VW is rumored to be prepping an even hotter version of the GTI, dubbed the GTI-R.

The R version of the GTI will not use the 3.2L V6 from the R32, instead a turbocharged four-cylinder with around 266 horsepower, which could be the same engine in the Audi S3. All that power will be mated to an all-wheel-drive system. To make up for the added weight of the awd system, VW will also seek to cut the weight by removing some features.

The GTI-R is rumored for an unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall and a release sometime in early 2010.

VW has unveiled the Polo BlueMotion Concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

The Polo BlueMotion is powered by a 1.2L TDI three-cylinder with common rail injection. Combined with start-stop technology and regenerative braking, the Polo BlueMotion gets 71.3 mpg (US). That effectively makes the Polo BlueMotion the most fuel-efficient passenger internal combustion car available.

The Polo BlueMotion is expected sometime in 2010.

Aston Martin is going to officially unveil the One-77 at the Geneva Motor Show. The One-77 is a showcase of Aston Martin style and performance.

The One-77 is powered by a 7.3L naturally-aspirated V12 engine with upwards of 700 horsepower. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that is controlled via column mounted paddle shifters. It also features Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires (255/35 ZR20 front, 335/30 ZR20 rear) that were developed specifically for the One-77.

Aston Martin expects a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed over 200 mph.

GM is set to unveil two more versions of the Volt at the Geneva Motor Show. In Europe the Volt will be called the Ampera and sold under the Opel and Vauxhall brands.

The Ampera is essentially the same thing as the Chevy Volt although with a bit more style on the front and rear of the car.

The Ampera will enter production in late 2011.

VW has unveiled the 2010 Polo, which will be officially unveiled tomorrow at the Geneva Motor Show.

The all-new Polo looks very similar to the larger Golf and is larger than the outgoing model. Despite the fact that the new Polo is larger, the overall body weight has been reduced by 7.5 percent. The new Polo is also expected to attain the highest 5-star EuroNCAP rating.

Seven different engines will be offered on the Polo, four gas and three diesel, five of which are new.

Sales of the new Polo will begin at the end of June in Germany and the rest of Europe shortly afterwards. VW has also announced that the Polo will eventually be offered in the US, possibly as early as 2010.

Volvo has announced the changes to the 2010 S80, which gets updated styling, an enhanced interior and new diesel engines for Europe.

The 2010 S80 will feature three new diesel engines, the 2.4D, D5 and the low CO2-emitting DRIVE. In the US the S80 features a 235 hp 3.2L six-cyl, a 281 hp turbocharged 3.0L six-cyl or a 311hp 4.4L V8. The turbocharged six and V8 come standard with AWD.

The exterior of the S80 gets an updated grille with a larger Volvo emblem, and chrome on the lower fascia, side skirts and underneath the taillights. Inside there is a new steering wheel and updated gauges.

Alfa Romeo has officially unveiled the MiTo GTA just before its official unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in a little over a week.

The MiTo GTA is powered by a 240 horsepower turbocharged 1.8L engine. Engineers lowered the weight of the car by using carbon fiber for the roof, tailgate spoiler and mirror housings in addition to employing aluminum in the suspension. The ride height has also been lowered by 20 millimeters.

Audi has officially unveiled the 2010 Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolet.

The droptop versions of the A5 and S5 will be in showrooms in Europe in the second quarter of 2009 and in the US this fall. In Europe engines range from the 160 hp 1.8L engine to the top of the line 333 hp supercharged 3.0L V6. There will be less engine options in the US.

The Jaguar XF, is definitely one of the best Jaguars in a long time. Jaguar has announced the pricing for the uber-fast version of the XF, the 2010 XFR that was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year.

The 2010 XFR starts at $80,000 and is powered by a 510 horsepower 5.0L V8. At that price the XFR starts less than the M5 and E63 AMG and has more power than both.

Audi has released the first teaser images of the TT RS, which is the ultimate TT that will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

The TT RS will feature over 300 horsepower from ts turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder.

It's still up in the air if we'll get it here in the U.S.

GM has announced that Saab has filed bankruptcy in Swedish courts in an effort to reorganize the company and to become independent from GM.

The reorganization of Saab will lead to the design, engineering and manufacturing being concentrated back in Sweden. But in order for this to happen GM needs to secure financing, which is the main issue. The Swedish government already rejected GM's request for cash. According to the Automotive News Saab may need as much as $1 billion to remain sustainable on its own.

Currently Saab plans on launching three new vehicles of the next year and a half, the 9-3X, 9-5 and 9-4X...well that's if Saab can raise the money to sustain itself.

The Daily Telegraph has apparently broken the embargo on the Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept that will be officially unveiled next month at the Geneva Motor Show.

The Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept previews the new smaller Rolls-Royce RR4 that will be released in 2010.

Rolls-Royce chief designer, Ian Cameron, said: "The 200EX has a dynamic edge to its styling and is noticeably less formal than previous models. Its size, style and expression broaden the appeal of the car, making it more appropriate for a wider range of circumstances.

"It is a touring saloon with more than a little panache and perhaps more bravado than one might have expected from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. What you see is a modern car that is immediately recognisable as a true Rolls-Royce, even from angles that obscure the grille and Spirit of Ecstasy. Design elements such as the elevated prow, long bonnet, short front overhang, sharply raked A-pillar and elegant tail give the 200EX an air of informal presence – powerful but unobtrusive."

The 200EX shares about 20 percent of its parts with the BMW 7 Series and is expected to be powered by an all-new V12 engine. The production version of the RR4 is expected to be unveiled in Frankfurt this fall.

Mercedes is going to officially unveil the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe at the Geneva Motor Show next month. We've seen several spy photos of the new coupe, but here's our first official look at the successor to the CLK.

The E-Class coupe features many of the same design elements as the equally new E-Class sedan combined with a roofline that is similar to the current CLK. It also features no B-pillars and fully retractable side windows. All of these elements help the coupe achieve a Cd of just 0.24, which Mercedes claims makes it the most aerodynamically efficient production car on the market.

The engines range from the diesel E 250 CDI, which is 36 percent more powerful than the previous model while also consuming 17 percent less fuel. The range topping engine is in the E500 with its 388 hp V8 engine.

BMW is out to create another vehicle that no one has yet to ask for with its 5 Series Gran Turismo Concept, which BMW refers to as a Progressive Activity Sedan.

The concept is neither a sedan, wagon or SUV, instead its a combination of all three vehicles. It's overall shape is similar to the X6, but with a lower ride height. One interesting feature is the two-piece double-jointed tailgate. Just like the X6, the Concept only has room for 4 passengers.

Just like past BMW's concepts, the production model is expected to be very close to what we see here and is expected to be released sometime in 2010.

Porsche has announced the pricing for its upcoming 2010 Panamera four-door sedan. Pricing for the luxury sedan will range from $89,800 - $132,600 when it is released this fall.

The base rear-wheel-drive Panamera S with a 400-hp 4.8L V8 will start at $89,800. The all-wheel-drive Panamera 4S with the same 4.8L engine starts at $93,800. The all-wheel-drive Panamera Turbo with its 500-hp twin-turbo 4.8-liter V8 will start at $132,600.

The Panamera is expected in showrooms this October.

BMW had hoped to release the electric powered MINI E early this year, but due to overwhelming demand the release has been delayed until April. BMW has received 1,800 applications for the car, but only plans on producing 450 units. The high number of applications have delayed the process.

Since only 450 units are going to be produced BMW now has to go through the task of notifying most of the interested parties that they will not be receiving the vehicle. In order to qualify for the MINI E, a potential driver must live in Los Angeles, New York or New Jersey. In addition the driver must have a lockable garage that can accept a built-in charger to charge the MINI and lastly they must be willing to pay $850 a month to lease the car for a year.

Aston Martin is set to unveil a new V12 powered Vantage at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

The V12 Vantage is powered by a 6.0L V12 engine that puts out 510 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of torque. It reaches 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 190 mph.

Aston Martin only plans on producing 1,000 units with deliveries beginning in the third quarter of 2009.

Pricing will be announced at the show.

Audi of America President, Johan de Nysschen apparently doesn't think that the U.S. is ready for a premium subcompact from Audi.

Peter Schwarzenbauer, Audi’s worldwide sales and marketing boss, revealed last October that the automaker was reconsidering the A1 for the States, but now it looks like those plans have been stopped.

Audi polled its U.S. dealers about selling the A1 for around $25,500, with many of them saying it would be impossible to sell a small car for that price. Dealers were hoping for a price around $18K.

Well it looks like VW's attempt at a badge engineered Chrysler minivan is not going over so well. According to The Windsor Star, Chrysler workers are going to stop building the Volkswagen Routan, which is based on the Chrysler Town & Country.

VW has asked Chrysler Canada to stop producing the Routan due to inventory build up for the month of February. Currently Chrysler has been producing 300 Routans a day with about 29,000 already shipped to dealerships.

VW has only managed to sell a few thousand Routans.

Volvo has announced the pricing for the 2010 Volvo XC60 T6.

The 2010 Volvo XC60 T6 has a starting price of $37,200, which includes standard features like, leather seats, power driver's seat, SIRIUS satellite radio, Bluetooth ad HD Radio. The Panorama moonroof is also offered for no extra charge.

The XC60 T6 is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged engine that puts out 281 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. of torque. All-wheel-drive is also standard.

Porsche has officially unveiled the 2010 911 GT3 that will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The 911 GT3 is powered by a 3.8L naturally-aspirated six-cylinder that puts out 435 horsepower, which is up 20. The increased horsepower and mid-range torque help the GT3 reach 0-62 mph in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 194 mph.

For the first time ever the 911 GT3 comes with a variant of PSM Porsche Stability Management, which offers the driver the option to deactivate the stability and traction control. Both systems will not turn back on either, until the driver decides to do so, even in the most extreme conditions.

The 2010 911 GT3 will be available in U.S. showrooms this October with a starting price of $112,000.

We all know that you're supposed to put the top up on your convertible before you take it to the car wash. Nonetheless here's a video of four guys in a new MINI Cooper Convertible hitting the car wash with the top down.

We don't recommend trying this at home...

Bentley has released a single teaser image of its upcoming biofuel car that will be officially unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

Bentley hasn't released the official name of the car or any specs. According to Bentley the car will be Bentley's fastest, most powerful production car to date that also happens to run on biofuel.

Currently the most powerful car in the Bentley lineup is the Continental GT Speed with 600 horsepower and 553 lb-ft. of torque. So you can expect even higher numbers for this car.

Land Rover has announced that the automaker has officially sold 500,000 vehicles in the U.S.

Although gas prices and the economy have hurt Land Rover's sales recently, Land Rover sold 100,000 vehicles since July 2006. In contrast it took Land Rover 10 years to sell its first 100,000 vehicles.

Land Rover first entered the U.S. in 1987 and is also celebrating its 60th anniversary.

Chrysler and Fiat's newest agreement, which involves Fiat buying a 35 percent stake in Chrysler is going to lead to seven new fiat based cars making their way to the US.

According to unnamed sources four of the vehicles will be sold under the Chrysler brand and three will either be Alfa Romeos or Fiats. The official plan that will be announced on April 30th involves four Fiat platforms, a minicar, a subcompact, a compact and a mid-sized sedan. Chrysler's plants in the US are being tasked with producing the vehicles. Chrysler's Toluca, Mexico plant, which currently builds the soon to be killed PT Cruiser is going to produce the Fiat 500.

According to the Automotive News, under the plan its expected that Chrysler dealers will get two minicars, the Fiat 500 and a Dodge or Chrysler branded vehicle based on the Fiat Panda.

The subcompact segment will see the introduction of the Alfa Romeo MiTo and another Chrysler or Dodge branded vehicle.

A new compact car based Fiat’s C-Evo platform will likely replace the Dodge Caliber.

Lastly a replacement for the under performing Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger will be based on a stretched version of the C-Evo platform.

In case you are wondering what Fiat is going to get out of this deal, besides entry into the North American market, Fiat is going to sell the Dodge Journey and Dakota pickup in South America. In addition Fiat is going to use Chrysler's new Phoenix V6 engine in its own products.

Last week a few photos leaked of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe. It wasn't known how real they were or if they were just a good photoshop, well it looks like they are pretty accurate.

The first photos of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe with barely and camouflage have surfaced, giving us our first clear idea of what the new coupe will look like.

The car was caught at a company presentation in Mallorca.

The guys over at Autoblog.nl have posted a few photos of what may be the 2010 Mercedes Benz E500 Coupe.

It's not known if these photos are official photos of the 2010 E-Class Coupe, but if they aren't they are a good photoshop. The front end of the coupe in these photos is very similar to the recently unveiled E-Class sedan. The roofline is similar to that of the current CLK and it also features a B-pillarless design like the CLK. Outback the coupe features large taillights that are similar to the sedan and a short rear deck.

Stay tuned to see if these are actual photos of the 2010 E-Class Coupe.

This week Chrysler and Fiat announced a partnership that involves Fiat buying 35 percent of the U.S. automaker, which will give both automakers access to each other product lines and markets. The good news for Chrysler is that the automaker now has access to a whole new line of fuel-efficient small cars. According to Motor Trend the first fruit of the new partnership will be the Fiat 500.

Motor Trend editor Todd Lassa claims that the Fiat 500 is being fast tracked to U.S. showrooms within the next 18 months. The Fiat 500 would be sold in Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep showrooms.

Volkswagen Group of America CEO Stefan Jacoby has confirmed that VW is going to sell the small Polo in the US.

VW feels that following last summer's record gas prices, US consumers are more open to smaller more fuel efficient vehicles. Eventually gas prices are going to rise again, which would increase demand for a vehicle like the Polo.

The Polo fits in between the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit in terms of size.

Volkswagen development chief Ulrich Hackenberg recently told the Automotive News that "The small-car segment is the fastest growing segment in the U.S. and that Oil prices will rise again and that will drive small car sales up further.”

It's not known when the Polo will go on sale in the US, but production could take place at Volkswagen’s Puebla, Mexico plant.

VW unveiled the BlueSport Roadster Concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this week and according to VW engineers there will be a production version in three years.

The BlueSport concept was intentionally designed to be a production ready vehicle, but the reason we have to wait three years is because the concept is constructed of a mix of bespoke and production parts. The production parts are borrowed from VW’s new transverse, front-engined MQB platform, which isnt due in production until 2012. So since those parts wont be available until 2012, the BlueSport has to wait.

When the car is released it's going to go head to head with the Mazda MX-5 and Lotus Elise.

The VW Concept BlueSport represents VW's idea of what a fun, but environmentally conscious roadster should be like.

The VW Concept BlueSport is powered by a 180 horsepower clean diesel engine mated to 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission that sits behind the driver. It accelerates from 0-62 in 6.6 seconds while getting about 35 mpg on the European cycle.

Audi has unveiled the Sportback Concept at the Detroit Auto Show. The Sportback Concept is supposed to be a preview of the upcoming A7.

The Sportback Concept and eventual A7 is Audi's version of a four-door coupe, like the Porsche Panamera and Mercedes CLS. In addition to providing a preview of the A7, the Sportback Concept previews Audi's future design vocabulary.

The Concept is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TDI clean diesel. The diesel engine already meets the emissions limits of all 50 U.S. states and the EU6 standard scheduled to take effect in 2014. In addition it manages to get 39.87 US mpg.

Thanks to a few sites breaking the embargo, we now have an early look at the 2010 Jaguar XFR that will be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show.

The 2010 Jaguar XFR is powered by 510 horsepower 5.0L AJ-V8 GEN III engine that features with a 6-generation Roots-type twin vortex (TVS) supercharger. That power propels the car from 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph.

The XFR also features 20-inch Nevis alloy wheels and comes in eight colors: Botanical Green, Indigo, Kyanite Blue, Liquid Silver, Lunar Grey, Porcelain and Salsa.

We've already seen several leaked photos of the all-new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but now we have the leaked brochure and if you can read German you can read all the details.

In Europe the new E-Class will be powered by a series of 4 and 6-cylinder engines in both gas and turbo diesel formats:

The gas powered lineup:
184-hp E200 CGI, 204-hp E250CGI, 292-hp E350 CGI and the 388-hp E500.
The diesel lineup:
136-hp E200 CDI, a 170-hp E220 CDI, a 204-hp E250 CDI and the 3.0L liter 231-hp E350 CDI

Although the E-Class AMG is in the pictures we do not know the final specs on that model.

The 2010 E-Class will be officially unveiled in a few days at the Detroit Auto Show.

The BMW X6 may be something that very few of us asked for from BMW, but it isn't stopping BMW from releasing two new variants of it. Later this year BMW is going to release a two-mode hybrid and M version of the X6.

Porsche has announced that the four-door 2010 Porsche Panamera will have its official world debut at the 2009 Shanghai Auto Show on April 19th.

Porsche hasn't released the final specs about the Panamera, but instead has stated that the Panamera will be powered by modern V-engines with either six or eight cylinders. Horsepower numbers will range from 300-500 bhp. There will be two V8 engines, one normally aspirated and one with bi-turbocharger technology.

The engines are mated to either a six-speed manual or the new seven-speed double-clutch transmission. Rear-wheel-drive is standard and the top model with the turbocharged V8 will feature all-wheel-drive.

BMW has officially announced the pricing for the all-new 750i and 750Li models.

BMW's largest sedan starts at $81,125 for the 750i and $85,025 the 750Li. Both models are powered by a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 that puts out 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. of torque.

The all-new 7 Series will be in showrooms this coming spring with a 7 Series hybrid following sometime later.

Saab loves its special edition models and although the current 9-5 is close to the end of its life cycle, Saab is releasing a 9-5 Griffin Edition.

The 9-5 Griffin Edition is powered by a 2.3L 260 horsepower 4-cylinder engine that can be mated to either a manual or automatic transmission.

The exterior of the 9-5 Griffin features a matte chrome grill, Xenon headlights, rear spoiler, unique five-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels and Griffin badges. Inside there is a high gloss interior trim and Aero-inspired leather seats.

The 9-5 Griffin starts at $42,775 for the Sedan and $ 44,045 for the SportCombi model.

Maserati is going to unveil the new Quattroporte Sport GT S at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Maserati's first Indianapolis 500 win.

The changes to the GT S from the Quattroporte S include a recalibated 4.7L V8 engine that now puts out 433 horsepower and the transmission also gets revised shift points. The front and rear suspension have been revised with stiffer springs and a lower ride height. A new sports exhaust has also been added to give the car an even better sound than the S.

Audi has announced the expansion of the A4 lineup with a new front-wheel-drive (FrontTrak) model and the addition of a six-speed manual transmission on the A4 quattro sedan.

The A4 2.0T FrontTrak features Audi's 2.0 TFSI engine that is paired to a multitronic continuously variable transmission. The setup helps the A4 get 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. The A4 2.0T quattro equipped with the six-speed manual transmission gets 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

The 2009 Audi A4 2.0T FrontTrak sedan with multitronic CVT transmission starts at $31,000. The MSRP on the 2009 Audi A4 2.0T quattro manual is $31,850.

Although there are rumors that Ford may soon sell Volvo, Volvo is continuing work on its current lineup. Volvo has unveiled the S60 Concept that will be officially unveiled next month at the Detroit Auto Show.

The S60 Concept shows that the next generation S60 will be more aggressive than the current generation with a coupe-like roof line. The concept also has no B pillar and features rear doors that open suicide style. Obviously the door setup will not make it onto the production model.

Inside the concept features many of the same design elements as the newer Volvos.

The concept is powered by a GTDi (gasoline turbocharged direct-injection) four-cylinder that puts out 179 horsepower and is mated to a Powershift dual-clutch transmission.

Stay tuned for more details next month from the show.

Next month Audi is going to unveil the A7 concept at the Detroit Auto Show in addition to the V10 version of the beautiful R8.

The A7 is Audi's version of the Mercedes CLS, which basically means its a four-door sedan with coupe-like styling. According to sources the couple-like lines of the concept mirror those of the production version. In addition to the concept version of the A7 and the V10 R8, Audi is also going to unveil a new diesel-powered vehicle. Rumor has it that it could be a new diesel powered A4 or maybe even the Q5 SUV.

Following several spy photos and photo leaks, BMW has officially unveiled the 2010 Z4 before its official unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show next month.

The new Z4 gets all-new styling that is both more aggressive (front end) and cleaner (back end). A new first for the Z4 is a two-piece retractable hard-top that ditches the soft-top from the last generation.

The Z4 also employs BMW's new naming scheme (sDrive) with the sDrive30i and sDrive35i. The sDrive30i is powered by a 255 horsepower 3.0L 6-cylinder engine and the sDrive35i is powered by the 300 horsepower 3.0L twin-turbo 6-cylinder engine. Both engines can be mated to either a a 6-speed manual or a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The sDrive30i is also available with a six-speed automatic.

The all-new Z4 will be officially unveiled next month with sales starting in the fall of 2009.

Audi unveiled the Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro yesterday ahead of its official unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show next month. Now the first photos of the R8 V10 in red have been released.

The Audi R8 V10 is powered by a Lamborghini-sourced 5.2L V10 engine that puts out 525 horsepower and propels the car from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 196 mph. The V10 engine is mated to either a a 6-speed manual or R-Tronic semi-automatic.

The first official images of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have leaked onto the web today. We've seen lots of spy photos and renderings of the new sedan, so these photos aren't all that exciting.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be officially unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show next month. Mercedes previewed the new E-Class with the Mercedes-Benz ConceptFascination and its apparent that the sedan draws many cues from the concept. The front-end ditches the four round headlights for four more angular pieces. There are also new led light strips on the lower front bumper. Overall the styling of the new E-Class brings it more inline with the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class sedans.

Expect more details soon...

Ward’s Automotive Group has announced its 2009 10 Best Engines list.

The list is compiled by Ward's editors and 2009 is officially the 15th year of the Ward’s 10 Best Engines program.

This year the list of winners is very broad with hybrid engines as well as high output turbocharged engines receiving the award.

“A decade ago, few consumers in the U.S. paid serious attention to hybrids or diesels. This year, they have to, if they don’t want to be pinched the next time fuel hits $4 a gallon,” says Tom Murphy, executive editor of Ward’s AutoWorld magazine.”The diesels from VW and BMW and the Ford Escape Hybrid all got better than 30 mpg (7.8 L/100 km) during our testing, and often they topped 40 mpg (5.8 L/100 km),” he says. “And the diesels meet the strictest emissions regulations in the world. If Americans want to find a vehicle that consumes less fuel and is fun to drive, our list is a great place to start.”

If it wasn't already sad enough that most of us can't afford the current Audi R8, Audi has unveiled an even better version of the R8, the R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro.

The R8 V10 shares its engine with the Lamborghini Gallardo. The V10 puts out 525 horsepower and 390 lb-ft. of torque, which is a little less than the numbers that the Gallardo puts out. The R8 V10 reaches 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds. The V10 engine is mated to either a six -speed manual or the sequential R tronic transmission.

The 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro wil launch in Germany in the second quarter of 2009 at a basic price of EUR 142,400.

Test mules of the 2010 BMW Z4 have been caught testing around the world many times, but now we have our first look at the new Z4.

The new Z4 borrows styling elements from the new 2009 3 Series and 7 Series. It's also expected that the Z4 will also feature a retractable hardtop. Too bad that guy is in the middle of the shot or we could have seen more. The Z4 shown here is apparently in a BMW dealership during the filming of a new Michael Douglas movie.

Stay tuned...

Just in time for winter, Audi has unveiled the Cabriolet versions of the A5 and S5.

For 2010 Audi is going to release drop top versions of its beautiful A5 and S5 coupes. But unlike BMW, Infiniti and Lexus, these drop tops will feature a fabric top. It's obvious that a soft top saves more weight over a metal folding top and also saves some cargo space, but its definitely not as nice to look at when the top is up.

The 2010 Audi A5 Cabriolet will be powered by either the 2.0L TFSI four-cylinder or the 3.2 FSI V6 engine. The S5 coupe is currently powered by 4.2L V8 that it will keep until the end of the 2010 model year, but the S5 Cabriolet is already making the switch to the smaller engine with the 3.0L TFSI V6 that is also in the S4.

The 2010 Audi A5/S5 Cabriolet will be available in the fall of 2009.

Times are tough for the Big 3 and each automaker is trying to figure out ways to raise revenue. Ford announced today that the automaker is reevaluating its options for the Volvo brand.

Ford is being forced to reconsider selling Volvo dues to the significant economic decline in the last few months. Ford says it's going to be a few months before Ford makes a decision about Volvo. In the meantime Ford is going to work with Volvo to allow it to operate on a more stand-alone basis.

Porsche has finally released the official photos of the 2010 Panamera.

The 2010 Panamera is a four-door, four-passenger sedan that will join Porsche's lineup in the summer of 2009. Porsche hasn't released the official details about what will be under the hood of the Panamera, instead the automaker simply states that six and eight-cylinder engines will be offered with between 300-500 horsepower. The engines will be mated to a manual either a six-speed gearbox or the new seven-speed Double-Clutch Gearbox, the so called Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK). Rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models will also be available.

The Panamera will be making its world debut in spring 2009

Porsche has unveiled the new diesel powered Cayenne that will be sold in Europe early next year.

The Cayenne diesel is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine that puts out 240 horsepower and 405 lb-ft. of torque. It also manages to get 25 mpg. The engine is mated to the Tiptronic-S automatic gearbox.

The Cayenne diesel is initially only going to be sold in Europe, although Porsche claims that other markets will follow. It remains to be seen how well the diesel powered Mercedes and upcoming Audi Q7 TDI will perform in the US.

Porsche has unveiled the 2010 Cayman and Boxster at the LA Auto Show.

For 2010 the Cayman and Boxster receive a mild facelift inside and out in addition to new features. There is also a little more power to make the cars even more enjoyable. The Boxster now puts out 255 hp (increase of 10) and the Cayman puts out 265 hp (increase of 20). The Boxster S now puts out 310 hp (increase of 15) and the Cayman S puts out 320 (increase of 25). The Cayman and Boxster are also now available with Porsche's PDK double-clutch gearbox.

Lamborghini has unveiled the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder at the LA Auto Show.

The convertible version of the Gallardo LP 560-4 Coupe is powered by a 560 horsepower 5.2L V10 engine. It reaches 0-62 mph in 4.0 seconds and has a top speed of 201 mph.

On the outside the Spyder features new headlights with LEDs and a completely redesigned tail. The top that can come in black, blue, grey or beige can be lowered in 20 seconds.

An Audi spokesperson recently told InsideLine that the next Audi S5 is going to feature a V6 engine rather than a V8 when it is released in 2009.

The next S5 is going to get the same 329 horsepower supercharged V6 engine as the recently introduced Audi S4.

"Not only does this new engine get nearly the same horsepower and more torque," said an Audi spokesperson, "but the fuel efficiency with the V6T improves by 30 percent over the V8."

Yesterday it was reported that GM has canceled all of its press events and major intros at the LA Auto Show, which leaves the automaker with very little to show off. Since there isn't much to show, Saab is going to quietly debut its 25th anniversary edition of the 9-3 convertible.

The 2nd limited edition 9-3 convertible is available in three colors, Jet Black, Carbon Grey, and Bright Champagne. It's powered by a 210 horsepower 2.0L engine that can be mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.

The anniversary 9-3 convertible will be in showrooms in January 2009 with a starting price of $46,725.

Bentley is going to officially unveil the Bentley Azure T at the LA Auto Show next week.

The Azure T is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6¾-liter V8 that puts out 500 horsepower and 737 lb-ft. of torque. This is an 11 percent improvement in horsepower and 14 percent improvement in torque over the lesser powered Azure. 0-60 mph comes in a fast (considering its weight) 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 179 mph.

The exterior of the Azure T features 20-inch five-spoke 'Bright Finish' alloy wheels, retractable 'Flying B' bonnet mascot, dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles, 'Le Mans' lower front wing air vents, and a Bentley 'Jewel' fuel filler cap.

Inside there is diamond quilting on the seats and door panels, drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals, aluminum panels and "Bentley" embroidery.

Bentley has not announced the pricing for the Azure T.

Along with the announcement of the 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance pricing, BMW has also announced the pricing for the 2009 BMW 335d BluePerformance.

The diesel powered 3 Series starts at $44,725. It is powered by the same 3.0L inline-six diesel engine in the X5 that puts out 265 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2009 335d can reach 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds while achieving 23/33 mpg and a range of 550 miles.

BMW has announced the pricing for its diesel powered X5 that will be for sale in all 50 states by the end of the month.

The 2009 X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance starts at $52,025. The diesel powered X5 is powered by a 3.0L inline-six diesel engine that puts out 265 horsepower and 425 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine allows the X5 to reach 0-62 mph in 7.2 seconds while still achieving 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

VW was set to debut its upcoming mid-engine roadster at the LA Auto Show in a little over a week, but has decided to push back its unveiling until January at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

VW hopes to attract more interest for the roadster at the show in Detroit. The final details are pretty scarce. It is expected that the car will debut in 2011, but it is not known what 4-cylinder engine that VW will use.

Now that Jaguar is no longer tied to Ford, we can expect some big changes from the automaker. Jaguar's new owner Tata Motors wants to add up to three new models to the Jaguar lineup.

The three new models could include a new coupe, a roadster based off the XF sedan and a new lightweight sports car that would compete with the Porsche Boxster. Tata has no plans to introduce a Jaguar SUV, since that would compete with its other brand, Land Rover.

According to Mercedes-Benz US CEO Ernst Lied, the CLK coupe is going to die after the 2010 model year. Its replacement will be based off the next-generation E-Class sedan that is set to be released in mid-2009.

The larger E-Class coupe and convertible will draw inspiration from the ConceptFASCINATION that was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show earlier this year. The coupe is going to debut at the same time as the sedan, next year and the convertible will debut in 2010.

MINI has confirmed the pricing for the 2009 MINI E at $850 a month for a 1 year lease.

The fully-electric MINI can go up to 150 miles on a full charge. The electric motor puts out 204 horsepower and 162 lb-ft. of torque, which helps the car reach0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 95 mph.

Although more than 9,500 people have signed up for info about the 2009 MINI E, only 500 will be produced for lease in California, New York and New Jersey. The $850 per month covers all maintenance and replacement parts. The car also comes with a wallbox that allows the battery to be charged in two and a half hours. In order to buy the car you need to have a lockable garage, since the charging system will be located in your garage.

Last month was a horrible month for automobile sales with most automakers posting double digit declines. Well decreased sales and profits are also cutting into the product plans for many automakers as well. BMW has announced that the Concept CS is not going to be produced because the vehicle will not be profitable.

This news means that the 7 Series will remain the top vehicle in BMW's lineup. The Concept CS was designed as a four-door coupe that was meant to compete with the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide, and Mercedes-Benz CLS.

Audi has announced the pricing for the 2009 Audi TT-S that begins at $45,500 for the coupe and $47,500 for the roadster.

The Audi TT-S is powered by a 2.0L TFSI engine that puts out 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque, which is more powerful than the 3.2L V6. The TT-S coupe reaches 0-60 mph in a very short 4.9 seconds and still manages to get 29 mpg on the highway. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.

The guys over at Xcar.com recently got some photos of the interior of the upcoming Porsche Panamera four-door and the guys over at TeamSpeed have kindly posted them.

Until now we've only seen several spy photos of the exterior of the Porsche Panamera. Also note how the key fob is in the shape of the Panamera.

The small Alfa Romeo MiTo has been named 2009 European Car of the Year.

The MiTo scored 462 points by automotive journalists in Europe and it beat out the Lancia Delta and new Ford Fiesta. The Ford Fiesta will be sold in the U.S. in 2010 and it's widely rumored that Alfa Romeo will make a U.S. return by 2011.

Leaked photos of the upcoming Aston Martin One-77 supercar have leaked onto the web.

Once production begins Aston Martin's newest flagship will go for around £1.2 million (roughly $2 million) and production will be limited to 77 units. Surprisingly Aston Martin has already received 100 orders for the car, which means the car is already sold out.

The One-77 will be powered by a 7.3L V12 engine with more than 700 horsepower, which will propel the car up to speeds over 200 mph with a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. The engine will be mated to a rear-mounted transmission. Left and right hand drive versions will also be available.

Bad News! The U.S. isn't getting the VW R32 for the 2009 model year. Thomas Wegehaupt, spokesman for Volkswagen, has confirmed the bad news.

The R32 has only been on the market in the U.S. for less than a year, but that doesn't matter because we won't get a new one for at least a year or two. The most logical answer to VW's decision is that a redesigned Golf/ Rabbit was recently unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show and the U.S. should receive it sometime next year.

According to KickingTires there are currently 276 VW R32s still for sale in the U.S. at a starting price of $32,990. There is also a $2,000 cash rebate until Oct 31st on the car if you can find one near you.

BMW is working on a new "green" supercar that will be launched by the end of 2012. The new BMW supercar would rival the Audi R8 and upcoming Mercedes SLC.

The new supercar will showcase BMW's EfficientDynamics system, which combines fuel-saving technology such as direct injection, brake energy regeneration and stop-start.

Sources claim that the two-seater will be a modern day M1, which may draw cues from the M1 Hommage Concept that was unveiled earlier this year.

It's rumored that the yet to be named supercar will be powered by BMW's twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter straight six and will get gas mileage that is equivalent to the 5 Series.

Audi has released official sketch photos of the upcoming 2010 A5 Sportback and Cabrio, 2010 A7 four-door coupe and the next-generation 2011 Audi A8.

The A5 Sportback and Cabrio will be powered by the same engines as the A5 coupe and will likely come in S and RS versions as well. After the addition of the new A5 models, the A7 will be released to compete with Mercedes' CLS. The A7 four-door coupe will be powered by three engines ranging from a 204hp 2.8L model up to a 394hp 4.2L V8. An RS7 is expected and will be powered by a 600hp twin-turbocharged 5.2L V10.

The next-generation Audi A8 will be released in late 2010 as a 2011 model. The sketch shows a much more aggressively styled sedan than the current generation.

Earlier this year VW execs stated that the Scirocco was not going to make it to the U.S. due to the declining dollar and the fact that it could cannibalize sales of the GTI. Well now it looks like the automaker is reconsidering it.

Apparently the outcry from Scirocco enthusiasts and the popularity of the car in Europe has forced VW to reconsider bringing the Scirocco to the U.S.

A final decision has not been made, but if VW can figure out how to position it so that it doesn't steal GTI sales they should bring it!

Porsche's upcoming "4-door coupe" the Panamera is scheduled to hit the market sometime next year and rumors are circulating that Porsche is considering diesel and targa top versions.

The Porsche Panamera will be officially unveiled early next year and will finally hit the market late in the fall. It will be powered by either a 300 horsepower 3.6L V6, 400 horsepower 4.8L V8 or a turbocharged 500 horsepower engine. In 2010 a hybrid version of the Panamera will also join the lineup.

BMW unveiled the concept version of the BMW X1 SUV at the Paris Motor Show last week. Many of us were not too positive about the overall styling of BMW's newest SUV, which doesn't really matter since the X1 will enter production next year.

Currently BMW's two SUVs, the X3 and X5 are only available with all-wheel-drive, but BMW is reportedly thinking about offering a rear-wheel-drive version of the upcoming X1. BMW feels that the savings on weight and fuel economy gains with a RWD version will make the vehicle more appealing. BMW currently labels its AWD system "xDrive" if the X1 gets the RWD option BMW is going to introduce a new label, "sDrive" for the system.

A hybrid X1 is expected for 2011.

Today on my way into my day job, I happened to come across a 2010 BMW Z4 being driven around Santa Monica.

Unfortunately as many of you know, LA traffic is horrible so these are the best shots I could get before I slammed into the other cars in front of me. They were also taken with my iPhone..so of course they aren't the best quality.

The next-gen Z4 is definitely bigger than the current generation, most likely to make room for an even smaller BMW roadster built off the 1 Series platform. Other than the bigger exterior and possible retractable hardtop, the car sounded great.

Stay tuned for the official unveiling of the 2010 BMW Z4..whenever that is. :)

BMW and Neiman Marcus have announced that the all-new 2009 BMW 7 Series will be offered in this year's Neiman Marcus Christmas Book.

The limited edition 7 Series is going to be offered at $160,000 and only 31 of them will be offered. What is special is that 31 Neiman Marcus customers will be able to purchase the car before its official launch date next year.

Iridescent Diopside Black metallic paintwork and exquisite BMW Individual Champagne Merino full leather are part of the limited edition package.

We've already seen countless photos of Ferrari's newest model, the California. But these newest photos were actually taken in California (note the pics of the car on the Golden Gate Bridge and Bay Bridge).

The Ferrari California is powered by a 460 horsepower 4.3L V8 that is mated to 7-speed dual clutch transmission. The car reaches 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds.

Oh also just in case you're actually one of the few not effected by the current economic crisis, the Ferrari California is supposedly sold out through 2010.

Toyota and Audi recently showed off their iQ and A1 small cars at the Paris Motor Show last week. Originally both automakers had not planned on introducing either car to the US market, but as everyone is now witnessing...small cars are in.

Audi's worldwide sales and marketing boss, Peter Schwarzenbauer recently stated, " A year ago, I would have said no. I did not see any trend in the US which showed me that small cars could have a lasting, sustainable chance. I think this has changed. Therefore we definitely have to reconsider the A1." The hybrid A1 concept is powered by a 1.4L four-cylinder mated to an electric motor.

Mercedes-Benz has already unveiled the S 400 BlueHYBRID, but now comes word that Mercedes is also working on hybrid version of its E and C-Class sedans.

After the S-Class hybrid arrives, the E-Class hybrid will be released in 2010 based on the next-gen sedan. By 2011 a C-Class hybrid will also be released based on the refreshed model.

"We have decided on hybridization on all our cares in the future and so far we have had a lot of questions and excitement, but I don't know how that will translate into a take rate," CEO Dieter Zetxche said at the Paris Motor Show.