Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: 2011 Chrysler Town & Country Walter P. Signature Series

Chrysler has been building Walter P. editions of its cars for some time, bundling popular equipment and slapping a few emblems on the doors. This van is no different. The Signature Series Town & Country comes with a 3.8-liter V-6 (the 4.0-liter is optional). It features a two-tone interior with unique wood, Stow ’n Go seats, a touch-screen radio with 30-gig hard drive, and a second- and third-row entertainment system.

Exterior differentiation includes seven-spoke 17-inch wheels and chrome trim on the beltline, fascia, and roof rack. Pricing starts at $33,365 and the Walter P. Chrysler minivans will be at dealers soon. While this sounds like a desirable option package, we’re not sure slapping an old dead guy’s name on a minivan is a great way to spark interest.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: 2011 Chrysler 300C S6 & S8

No, instead of outlandish titles, the special-edition 300s get familiar names—familiar to fans of high-powered Audis, that is. (We smell a lawsuit.) Starting in the spring, you’ll be able to purchase a 300 S6 with a 3.5-liter V-6 or a 300 S8 powered by a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. The engines are all that separate Chrysler’s S6 and S8, as both get a unique exterior with a blacked-out grille, darkened headlight surrounds, minimal use of chrome, and doors shaved of their moldings. Twenty-inch wheels with black accents fill the wheel openings and are attached to a performance-tuned suspension. A performance-tuned steering rack and new brake pads are also included.

The S cars get the amply bolstered seats from the 300C SRT8 as well as an SRT8 steering wheel and shift knob with red stitching. Brushed-aluminum accents are scattered throughout the cabin and there’s a Kicker sound system with subwoofer, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity, and Sirius satellite radio. Remote start, heated power front seats, and adjustable pedals are also included. Stolen name aside, the Hemi-powered 300 S8 sounds pretty nice.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: Chrysler Delta Concept

Once Fiat took an interest in Chrysler, many figured it wouldn't be long before Chrysler-branded Fiat products would show up in the U.S. Now, the first one is here. Fiat subsidiary Lancia has rebranded its Delta hatchback as a Chrysler for the 2010 Detroit Auto Show.

We heard a few weeks ago that the rebranding of Lancia vehicles was a possibility, but we were still pleasantly surprised to see a new model on Chrysler's stand next to a handful of badge-only special editions. In all that domestic rebadging, though, no one seems to have come up with a new name for the Delta. For now, it's simply known as the Chrysler Lancia. From the looks of things, it's a Lancia Delta with new-age Chrysler badges and a Chrysler corporate grille, and truth be told, it doesn't look that bad.

The real question is what this car represents. It very well could be a peek into the future Chrysler lineup, one populated with Fiat models. On the other hand, it could also be a look at Fiat's strategy to rebrand some its models worldwide as Chryslers thanks to the American brand's better name recognition in some markets. For its part, Chrysler isn't saying why it's here, but it's a good bet that they're testing the waters in Detroit for Italian rebadges.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: Chevrolet Aveo RS Concept

After taking heat for years for its subpar compact entries, General Motors is firing back. The new Chevrolet Cruze debuted last month at the Los Angeles auto show; the Spark is on its way; and Chevrolet is completing the trifecta with the Aveo RS show car, a thinly veiled preview of the long-awaited Aveo replacement.

Knowing full well that the replacement needed to greatly improve upon the existing Aveo, Chevrolet has made the new hatchback wider, longer, and more spacious that the one it will replace. For the show car, Chevy has gone all out with special design cues including big front fender flares, extra-large brake cooling ducts with pushed-out fog lights, and big air inlets trimmed in both brushed and polished aluminum.

Other elements are more likely to make it to the production car, including the exposed, aluminum-trimmed headlights and round taillights, elements Chevy says were inspired by motorcycles. Turn signals integrated into the mirrors, and rear door handles tucked into the C-pillars, are also likely to carry over to the production model. The chrome, center-exit exhaust tips, racy roof spoiler, and aluminum-trimmed, tinted tail lights are a bit less likely.

While some of these bits might not be found on the production car, they may be available as accessories. Chevy says it's targeting younger buyers and enthusiasts and hopes to hook them with the kinds of personalization options that have been such a hit for small-car competitors Scion and Kia. For the show car, Chevy even crafted a special silver engine cover with aluminum accents flanked by wheel-colored honeycomb grilles, and blue-rimmed coolant and power steering caps. The company hasn't said yet which, if any, of these show car items will actually be offered as factory or dealer upgrades.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept

With the XTS Platinum concept car, Cadillac aims to re-imagine "the luxury sedan as a personal headquarters." At an inch longer than the Escalade Platinum Hybrid, and 2.3-in wider and 1.1-in taller than the CTS, the large luxury sedan is a rolling showcase for the brand's Art and Science design language and a probable direction of its future production cars.

Modeled after the Platinum philosophy, the XTS features hand cut-and-sewn interior. Dark materials adorn the steering wheel and overhead compartment, contrasting against the prominent light cream interior color. The dash is a harbinger of the future of in-car electronics for the Cadillac brand. Organic Light-Emitting Diode (O-LED) displays replace the traditional gauges and screens, while the deployable touch-screen navigation system supplants the majority of buttons and switches on the dash. The panels appear black until the car is started; a "dead front" design, as dubbed by the designers, that aims to give the dash a flowing appearance.

The exterior "is the antithesis of the conventional three-box sedan, suggesting the active evolution of Cadillac's design language," according to design director Clay Dean. It features a sweeping profile and angled beltline to suggest forward motion. Vertical lamps sit at all four corners, while the lights up front receive adaptive lighting that adjusts direction depending on the angle of the front wheels.

Under hood is a paring of General Motors' direct-injected 3.6L V-6 and a plug-in hybrid system. The combination makes an estimated 350-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, and can propel the XTS under electric power alone. When plugged into a power outlet, GM says the battery can recharge in about five hours. The engine routes power to all four 20-in wheels, which are wrapped in Bridgestone rubber. Widely believed to be underpinned by GM's front drive-based Epsilon II platform, the XTS also features magnetic ride control, using shocks that are capable of adjusting damping in indiscernible amounts of time.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

You don't change a formula when it works. And the Cadillac CTS-V sedan worked darn well. So with the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe, which enters production this summer after its debut at the 2010 Detroit show, General Motors isn't straying far from its proven modus operandi. This CTS-V variant merges the bountiful abilities of the performance sedan with the coupe's unabashed design.

So what's different? Beyond losing two doors, the CTS-V Coupe shrinks in length and height by 2 inches compared to the sedan. It shares the sedan's 113.4-in. wheelbase, but its rear track is about an inch wider. Cadillac says the Coupe's sleek shape and slightly lower mass ensures "a similarly high level of performance."

The requisite CTS-V bodywork dons the Coupe's nose and tail. Additions include a larger grille that doubles air intake, says GM, a bulge in the hood that makes room for the supercharger, and a center-mounted exhaust with two outlets poking out the back. The rest of the details come from the standard CTS Coupe, including the touch-pad actuated doors, a dramatically angled windshield (62.3 degrees), a near horizontal rear window, vertical tail lamps with LEDs, a center lamp that acts as a rear spoiler, and the absence of a conventional B-pillar.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: Buick Regal GS Concept

In November, we took a spin in the Opel Insignia OPC (which stands, not too imaginatively, for Opel Performance Content), the highest performing model in the extensive and lauded Insignia lineup. We posited that car might point the way toward the revival of a Buick performance subbrand like T-Type. Well, now we know it's likely to be called GS if the Buick Regal GS show car bowing at the 2010 Detroit show is any indication, though it's still not confirmed for production. Most of the content is lifted directly from the OPC, from the aggressive restyled fascias with vertical air inlets in front, dual exhaust outlets and a diffuser in back, as well as unique rocker panels, integrated rear spoiler, and special Olympic White paint. The jet-black interior features Recaro seats with white stitching, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and piano-black trim.

Mechanical upgrades borrowed from Opel include 20-inch forged wheels, vented and drilled Brembo brakes with 14 x 1.2-inch vented and cross-drilled front rotors, four-piston, high-strength aluminum calipers, and high-performance pads. An adjustable suspension lowers the body by 0.4 inch and features HiPerStruts in front that help reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering for improved grip, improving road feel and reducing undesirable feedback in bumpy corners. The Interactive Drive Control System (also available on Regal CXL 2.0L turbo models) delivers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety, while also adapting the damping and driving characteristics to the driver's preferences. Normal, sport, and GS modes tailor the suspension settings, throttle response, shift pattern, and steering sensitivity through the variable-effort steering system.

The big difference relative to the OPC is replacement of that car's 2.8-liter turbocharged 321-horsepower, 321-pound-foot V-6 with a higher-output version of the 2.0-liter turbo that's expected to produce at least 255 horses and 295 pound-feet. That abundant force is routed through a six-speed manual to a Haldex all-wheel-drive system that includes an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential. Why ditch the six? According to Craig Bierley, product marketing director for Buick, that engine would likely incur a gas-guzzler penalty, and in any case, the design brief was to build a car that could accelerate to 60 mph in the fives, and the 2.0T was easily able to accomplish that while achieving considerably better fuel economy than the V-6.

Bierley also assured us that the rock-hard damper tuning of the IDCS system's OPC setting (now GS) would be softened just a bit for the U.S. market. Trust us -- this is a good thing in a country that maintains its roadways so much worse than the Germans do. Only the Insignia's normal setting felt tolerable, Sport prompted minor kidney trauma, and when in OPC (the max setting) one fears that conversation might imperil one's tongue. We're also hopeful that Buick will tune the four-cylinder's exhaust to eliminate the annoying drone we recently experienced in the OPC at 2000 rpm. Grip from the Pirelli PZeros was impressive back in November, and we expect much the same from the new 245/35/ZR20 Bridgestones. The steering feedback, braking feel and performance, and general chassis poise felt equal with the German sport-sedan competitive set on the Opel Insignia, and the same should hold true for the Regal GS. It will admittedly take some work to get the driving public to consider a Buick competitive with an A4 Quattro, but the first step is delivering the goods.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: BMW Concept ActiveE Concept

BMW's next chapter in its EfficientDynamics program calls for a new all-electric vehicle to complement its current fleet of leased Mini E electric subcompacts. To accomplish its self-prescribed mission, it enlisted the help of the 1 Series coupe and a revised synchronous electric motor to create a new show car called the Concept ActiveE. It's the epitome of electromobility in the true BMW sense, the automaker claims, and with the Mini E, continues to pave the way towards the ultimate goal of a mass-produced 'Megacity Vehicle'.

The heart of the concept is, of course, its electric powertrain. Engineers designed the unit to replace the 1 Series' combustion engine, fuel tank, drivetrain, and rear axle. The actual motor is enclosed in the would-be differential casing, while the lithium-ion battery modules take the place of the propshaft and also fit snugly under the front hood. ActiveE keeps the 1 Series's rear-wheel drive layout, as well as its 50/50 weight distribution, and combined with the instantaneous high torque of the new motor, promises to live up to the brand's distinct driving spirit.

Making a grand total of 170 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of torque, the motor was built to provide generous amounts of grunt at high road and engine speeds. That's in addition to the Concept ActiveE's immediacy of power, as in other EVs. The electric powertrain has been tuned to behave similar to that of a combustion engine, by reducing torque gradually under high load, rather than abruptly. BMW points out that the 3900-lb. car can hit 60 mph in around 8.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 90 mph.

Samsung's SB LiMotive partnered with engineers in Munich to develop the innovative power supply. Their lithium ion battery cells are grouped into compact modules that utilize individual liquid cooling systems to boost the vehicle's 100-mile single-charge range. Thanks to the battery's intuitive management control unit, users have the flexibility to charge their vehicle at any number of outlets, regardless of voltage or amperage. The control unit calculates power conversions and allows the batteries to charge at a fast pace. Engineers have quoted 3 hours to fully charge the units while plugged into a 230/240 volt European-spec outlet. On a more North American-like 32 amp plug, it'll take 4.5 hours.

On the move, the Concept ActiveE replenishes lost energy through what BMW calls Energy Recooperation. Once off the accelerator, the ActiveE's kinetic energy is used to turn a generator and create storable electricity. At the same time, the Brake Energy Regeneration system activates, illuminating the brake lights and engaging the rear brakes. If used often, Energy Recooperation can boost the EV's range by 20%. Meanwhile, BMW claims that in 75% of deceleration, the driver does not need to use the brake pedal. Should a higher measure of stopping power be required - such as in a panic situation or when coming to a full stop, the driver presses the brake pedal and the regular hydraulic system is engaged, enacting the front brakes as well.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Detroit Show 2010 Highlights: Audi e-Tron Detroit Concept

Despite the lack of a new name, Audi's latest take on its e-tron EV for the 2010 Detroit show is in fact a unique concept. As with the first e-tron that debuted at last year's Frankfurt show, the Detroit show e-tron concept is based on the R8's aluminum spaceframe, but is more than a foot shorter than its predecessor and nearly 500-pounds lighter. Perhaps most surprisingly, the Detroit car loses its front electric motors, meaning it does not feature Audi's signature quattro all-wheel drive. Instead, two motors mounted on the rear axle combine for an estimated 201 hp and 1955 lb-ft of torque (the latter figure apparently continues Audi's highly suspect practice of providing multiplied torque figures).

The result is a concept that's slightly less capable than the original e-tron (0-62 mph takes an estimated 5.9 seconds) but potentially more fun thanks to its small size - it looks positively diminutive next to an R8 -- and relatively light weight (less than 3000 lbs). It would also presumably be less expensive, though that too, would be relative given the price tag of more than $150,000 Audi will likely place on the first e-tron when it goes on sale in 2012. As with the Frankfurt e-tron concept, lithium-ion batteries mounted behind the driver provide an estimated 155 miles driving range for the Detroit show car, according to Audi.

At the moment, Audi is calling this variant an "experiment." However, the company makes no secret of its intent to market e-tron not just as a name for one vehicle, but as a distinct sub brand not unlike quattro and TDI. The concept also makes plain Audi's intent to very gradually trickle down its electric vehicle technology into more affordable products.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: Next Ford Mondeo Will be World Car

The next Mondeo is set to follow the Focus and Fiesta and become Ford’s third world car, sources have revealed to Autocar.

Insiders at the highest level have confirmed that designs for the new Mondeo are now nearing completion and the finished car is expected to hit the showrooms in 2014, when it will replace the European Mondeo and the US market Fusion.

Like the new Focus, previewed at today’s Detroit motor show, it’s also expected to be manufactured in Europe, the US and China.

In a break from tradition though, the new Mondeo is being designed and engineered in the US.

The finished production car though will be sold globally with no design changes to suit local markets, although as with the Focus and Fiesta there will probably be small chassis alterations to suit local driving conditions.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: 2011 Porsche Cayenne Details Revealed

Details of the second-generation Porsche Cayenne have been leaked out two months before the upmarket four-wheel drive’s public unveiling at the Geneva motor show.

The information brings to light the all-new-for-2010 Cayenne’s five-strong range of engines, including the first details on the new petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain it will share with the second-generation Volkswagen Touareg, alongside which it has once again been conceived, developed and engineered.

As with its predecessor, the second-generation Cayenne will continued be manufactured at parent company Volkswagen’s factory in Bratislava, Slovakia alongside the new Volkswagen Touareg and existing Audi Q7, with final assembly at Porsche’s Leipzig plant in Germany alongside the Panamera.

Porsche will also continue offering its new four-wheel drive system with the choice of three petrol engines – all updated versions of the units used in the outgoing first-generation model. They include a 296bhp 3.6-litre V6 in the entry level Cayenne, a 395bhp naturally aspirated 4.8-litre V8 in the mid-range Cayenne S and a range-topping 493bhp turbocharged 4.8-litre V8 in the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo.

Also planned from the outset of UK sales in May is a successor to the Cayenne Diesel running a lightly modified version of the existing model’s Volkswagen-developed 237bhp 3.0-litre V6.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Concept Car: Volkswagen New Compact Coupe (NCC)

Volkswagen’s New Compact Coupe (NCC) has leaked out ahead of its official launch later today at the Detroit motor show.

Reports claim the Jetta-based coupe is a hybrid, with power coming from a 148bhp, 177lb ft version of VW’s 1.4-litre TSI engine and a 27bhp electric motor. The motor is powered by lithium-ion batteries and the NCC is able to run for short distances on short journeys only.

The reports also claim the NCC’s CO2 emissions are just 98g/km and it can achieve more than 50mpg. Top speed is reportedly 141mph, with 0-62mph taking 8.6secs.

The Tungsten Silver Metallic NCC show car comes equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels and LED lights at the front and rear. The interior is finished in Grigio Quartz and Berry White leather.

The NCC is reportedly 4540mm long, 1780mm wide and 141mm high. According to the reports, the car is tipped to make production within the next two years.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Concept Car: GMC Granite

Urban lofts are pretty popular, and GMC thinks it has “the automotive equivalent of an urban loft apartment”: the GMC Granite concept, which will debut at the Detroit auto show. Styled with an “industrial look,” the Granite is edgy, beveled, and crisp, with multi-layer LED taillamps out back and headlamps that stretch into the hood. All the brightwork is brushed or satin-finished, as opposed to chrome. However dissimilar it looks to its current GMC brethren, we like it anyway.

Two feet shorter than the freshly added GMC Terrain, a production Granite would be the most compact GMC ever, and would be closer in concept to the Scion xB than to anything currently in the lineup. For further reference, the wheelbase is about as long as that of a Chevy Cobalt, but the overall length of 161.3 inches is about the same as a Honda Fit’s. At 70.3 inches wide, the Granite is about 3.5 inches wider than the Fit.

Lots of space has been carved out of those modest dimensions to accommodate, say, stuff with which you might want to furnish an urban loft. Long items such as a floor lamp, folding table, or even a prone supermodel can be brought inside, due to front and rear passenger-side seats that fold forward and rotate inboard. The four doors open French-style and there are no B-pillars, creating a large opening to load gear and passed-out people.

The full-length center console has a bunch of power ports to plug in computers, iPods, and other electronic gobbledygook. And, as is expected of a show car, technology-laden interfaces replace the familiar. Controls for the climate control, navigation, and audio systems, for example, are located on an organic-LED screen.

Power for the Granite concept comes from a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder; a similar, 138-hp unit is debuting in the upcoming Chevrolet Cruze. The engine is mated here to a six-speed automatic gearbox, which is controlled by a rotating electronic gear selector—like that used by Jaguar—instead of a conventional lever.

GMC, of course, has not announced an intention to produce the Granite, but we think it’s pretty probable given every automaker’s need to meet upcoming emissions and fuel-economy mandates. And as it’s likely to be based on the Cruze, such a GMC shouldn’t cost a tremendous amount of money to develop. We say bring it on.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

New Car: 2011 Ford Focus

The current U.S. Ford Focus is a disappointment to those who know how good the car was when it went on sale in 1999, as well as anyone who has driven the second-generation European-market Focus. While the rest of the world got a sharper, better handling, and more luxurious Focus for 2005, we merely got a heavy refresh of a car that was, in effect, already six years old. (It originally went on sale in Europe in 1998.) We then got an ugly refresh of that refresh for 2008.

Ford has now got its product development crews on the same page, so the next-generation Focus debuting at the Detroit auto show will be the same the world over. In the U.S., the car will be offered in early 2011 as a 2012 model in two variations: a sharp five-door hatchback and a good looking, if more conventional, four-door sedan. Compared with the current U.S. Focus, at 58.1 inches high, the new one is 0.5 inch lower. The overall length has gone up from 175.0 inches to 178.0, and the wheelbase grows from 102.9 inches to 104.2.

Both body styles initially will be powered here by a new, 2.0-liter direct-injected four-cylinder that makes 155 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, up from the current car’s 143 hp and 136 lb-ft. The engine will feature variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust cams and will be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox that was co-developed with Getrag. Around the rest of the world, there will be a broader range of gas and diesel engines, including turbocharged and direct-injected EcoBoost four-bangers. Expect EcoBoost engines to make it into U.S. cars, too, including one with over 225 horsepower in a sporty version, perhaps wearing an ST or SVT badge. A 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four likely will be included as a more mass-market choice, as well, offering a more efficient and more powerful alternative to the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Sneak Peek: 2011 Nissan Juke

Nissan has named the latest addition to its line up of quirky crossovers, as well as releasing the gloomy teaser shot you see here. Inspired by the Qazana concept shown in Geneva last year, and following in the footsteps of the hugely successful Qashqai, the 'Juke' is designed to offer customers a funky alternative to the traditional small hatchback.

From this dimly-lit photo it's clear that the concept car's swollen wheels arches have been carried over, along with the narrow, elongated headlights and oversize fog lights underneath. It appears the 370Z-inspired rear boomerang lights will also make production, while the windscreen and roofline have taken on a more angular profile.

Slotting in between the Note and Qashqai, the Juke will expand Nissan's broad range even further. And when it goes on sale in October, it should provide a welcome boost for the UK car industry too - it will be built alongside the Qashqai and Qashqai+2 at Nissan's Sunderland plant.

Full details on the newcomer will be realeaed at the global media unveiling on February 10th, but it's public debut won't be until the Geneva Motor Show in March. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

New Car: 2010 Subaru Impreza R205

Japanese buyers of Subaru vehicles are no strangers to special edition Impreza WRX models. Previous versions have varied on equipment, featuring everything from automatic gearboxes to performance-enhancing drivetrain and suspension goodies, but one thing they've had in common is that they aren't available in the U.S. The same holds true with Subaru's newest special edition 'Rex, the R205.

Although the "R" in "R205" reportedly stands for "Road Sport," it may as well stand for "racetrack." R205 models receive several suspension upgrades, all of which were tested by STI engineers during the 2009 Nurburgring 24-hour race. R205 models receive inverted strut and coil springs for the front suspension, along with revised dampers and coil springs out back. The front suspension also receives a strut tower bar, a lower arm brace, and a stabilizer bar.

This isn't, however, simply a handling package. Through a new engine computer, a revised twin-scroll turbocharger, and unique intake and exhaust systems, the turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four pumps out 320 lb-ft of torque, and 318 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm -- a substantial boost over the stock STI, which is rated at 305 hp and 290 lb-ft in North America. Unlike the Japanese Carbon edition (which came only with an automatic), the R205 is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

Cosmetic upgrades include a special grille insert, a STI-designed lower bumper and side sills, and a unique rear spoiler and diffuser. The R205 also wears bespoke 18-in. aluminum wheels, shod with Bridgestone Potenza RE070 rubber. Brembo provides a heavy-duty brake system, complete with six-piston calipers up front, and larger slotted rotors all around (Subaru says they're 18-in. -- the same size as the wheels. We imagine that's a typo.).

Subaru plans on selling only 400 examples of the Impreza R205, and each is expected to cost roughly $48,000.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Car: 2012 Chevrolet Aveo RS

The new Chevrolet Aveo RS concept debuting at the Detroit auto show reveals that GM has something smart and small in the works ready to meet Ford’s much-ballyhooed new Fiesta subcompact.

Larger than the current Aveo and donning what Chevy calls a “European hot-hatch look,” the five-door “Borocay Blue” RS show car is intended to appeal to the youth market—or any market, really. It previews the production version of the next Aveo due as a 2011 or 2012 model. Raise the concept’s chin a tad, tone down the chrome-rimmed outer air inlets, and replace those aluminum-wrapped exposed headlights (circumscribed as they are in blue) with similar halogen units, and you’re staring into the face of the 2011 Aveo. De-flare the RS concept’s fenders and replace the 19-inch wheels with more feasible rollers and you get a good idea of what the rest of the car will look like—we’ve seen the production-ready base model, so we should know. There’s a sedan, too, although it’s more homely than the hatch. Of course, if Chevy ends up putting out an actual Aveo RS model with body mods like those seen here, we’re fine with that.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

Spied: 2013 BMW 3-Series GT

Underneath this disguised 3-series are the mechanicals of the forthcoming 3-series GT. BMW hopes the new model will broaden the appeal of the 3-series in the same way that a hatchback variant has widened the scope of the 5-series.

However, the new car won’t just be a smaller version of the Five GT. This time BMW is aiming to produce a fastback 3-series rather than the business express limo that is the Five GT. The 3-series GT will be more of a rival to Audi’s A5 Sportback, which is halfway between a fastback A4 and a four-door A5.

Not only would a GT variant help to make the 3-series more profitable, but it would also go some way to insuring BMW against a drop in SUV sales by offering a more socially acceptable alternative to vehicles such as the X3.

The car in our scoop pictures is testing the GT’s mechanical make-up. It’s clothed in a current 3-series saloon bodyshell and the top half of the mule, from the doorline up, is from that car. But from the waistline down the body has been altered to accommodate the new car’s chassis.

The extended rear passenger door, which has extra disguise around the rear of the window, points to a longer wheelbase than the current 3-series to give more room inside. Further disguise around the rear window indicates that BMW’s engineers are experimenting with a new boot opening, too.

The test car also has wider front and rear tracks than the regular 3-series, which fits with the idea of a wider, longer version of the saloon. The extended wheel arches look capable of accommodating bigger wheels, too.

At the moment it’s unclear if the 3-series GT will be launched before the new saloon, although the presence of this test mule suggests that, like the 5-series, the fastback will be launched before the saloon; that could be in 2012.

Thanks to: Autocar

Sneak Peek: GMC Urban Utility Concept

We're less than a week away from the opening days of the Detroit auto show, and GM has released two new images that could foreshadow a concept we'll see at Cobo Hall. Stashed on GM's "The Lab" blog and dubbed the GMC "Urban Utility Concept" is the crossover-like vehicle shown here.

Very little is known about the crossover, but the one image -- a line drawing that compares the profiles and seating positions of the concept, a Terrain, and, of all things, a Scion xB -- possibly reveals the most. The "UUC" is much smaller than GM's current Theta-platform crossovers, and is virtually the same size -- and shape -- as the compact xB.

Playing in the compact hatchback segment would be a new endeavor for GMC (which typically sticks to trucks, SUVs, and crossovers), but the styling, however, seems quite familiar. GM released only one image showing exterior detail, and the front fascia seems to incorporate cues from the Terrain, along with the Denali XT concept shown at the 2007 Chicago auto show.

Hopefully, we'll learn more about the "UUC" in a few days time, when we hear GM will unveil a show car in Detroit along these lines.
Thanks to: Motor Trend

Sneak Peek: 2011 Chevrolet Aveo

The next Chevrolet Aveo will have a wheel, a tire, and maybe a rear quarter panel, if the latest teaser image from General Motors provides any indication. GM PR posted the image today on the social media Baphomet that is Twitter. We understand the photo was taken at an event where GM's Orio, Michigan, Assembly employees saw the car.

As we've reported, GM has hailed the next Aveo as a radical departure from the current model. We hear four round headlamps, a wedged body shape with an angled shoulder line, and hidden rear door handles are in store for the exterior. Check our spy report from May, here.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

Hot News: 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo SuperVeloce

After completing the stunning Gallardo LP 560-4 and 550-2 Valentino Balboni, you would think Lamborghini would take a break. A series of renderings on Lambocars.com, a Lamborghini enthusiast Web site, may prove otherwise.

Pouring gasoline on the latest rumor firebed, the renderings depict a Gallardo bearing white paint, a massive rear wing, carbon fiber bodywork, and a two-letter moniker well-known to Lamborghini diehards: SV. Lambocars.com believes a SuperVeloce edition of the Gallardo is in the works, estimating 570-hp from a 5.2L V-10. The Web site even ponders the existence of a rear-drive Balboni edition, based on the success of the most recent special edition Gallardo.

The Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce, which we tested in last year, boasts a 661-hp V-12 and all-wheel drive. It reached 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and the quarter mile in just 11.4 seconds at 125.8 mph. If such a Gallardo SuperVeloce is in the works, you might expect it to debut at the Geneva auto show in March.

Thanks to: Motor Trend

New Concept Car: Buick Regal GS

Confirming rumors, Buick is using the Detroit auto show to debut a higher-performance derivative of the Regal sports sedan. Although the Regal GS is officially a concept car, it won’t take much to bring this one to market, since it’s very similar to the Opel Insignia OPC already on sale in Europe. The regular Regal hits U.S. streets late this spring.

Externally, the GS is differentiated from the stock Regal by a 0.4-inch-lower stance accented by 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, as well as twin ports on the hood, unique rocker panels, dual exhaust outlets, additional front air intakes, and satin-finish metallic accents on the window surrounds. Inside, it gets Recaro sports seats, a squared-off steering wheel, and metal pedals.

However, unlike the OPC, which is fitted with a 325-hp, 2.8-liter turbocharged V-6, the GS concept features a tweaked version of the Regal’s 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo four making 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine drives through a six-speed manual transmission in the show car, but expect an automatic option when the GS goes into production. According to Buick execs Craig Bierley and Jim Federico, the reasons for the four-cylinder versus the V-6 are many: The bigger engine doesn’t make as much power when tuned to meet U.S. emissions regulations, and because it weighs more, there’s not a lot of difference in power-to-weight ratios. The V-6 also guzzles more gas than the turbo four, and the latter provides better weight distribution.

Thanks to: Car and Driver

New Car; 2010 Toyota Yaris

These are the first official images of Toyota's updated Yaris, which gains a range of minor cosmetic tweaks, along with improved spec levels (at least in models offered to European buyers).

The company hasn't gone overboard with the external mods, which are limited to a redesigned headlight cluster, matt silver door handles and new alloy wheels (or new wheel caps in cars with steel rims). The derriere is distinguished by mildly revised tail-lights.

Meanwhile, the colour palette gains two new additions -- hues dubbed Light Purple Silver and Blue metallic.

Toyota boasts the new Yaris represents five per cent better value than before as automatic air-conditioning and front foglights become standard in Euro-spec cars.

The company's European arm has also introduced a new model variant -- the 'Yaris 2010' -- which comes equipped with analogue instrument dials, a perforated leather steering wheel and gearshift knob and higher-grade upholstery trim.

Euro buyers can choose from three powerplants -- 1.0-litre VVT-i and 1.3-litre Dual VVT-i petrol units and a 1.4 litre D-4D (turbodiesel). Each engine features Toyota's Optimal Drive technology, which is said boost fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

As a result, all three engines generate under 120g/km, with model range fuel consumption averaging below 5 litres/100 km, according to Toyota. Moreover, Yaris whole-fleet CO2 emissions will be reduced from 130.8 g/km in 2008, to 117.4 g/km in 2010.

Toyota Optimal Drive focuses on lightweight, compact design, enhanced combustion efficiency and low-friction components. The company claims the petrol engines have been enhanced via a high-efficiency intake port, a high compression ratio and "long reach" spark plugs.

The 1.3-litre petrol engine features Stop & Start technology, while the 1.4 litre D-4D oiler is equipped with new Piezo injectors, variable nozzle turbocharging, a de-coupling generator and new electrical Exhaust Gas Recirculation.

Thanks to: Car Point

New Concept Car: Maruti-Suzuki R3 MPV

This is the Suzuki R3 MPV concept, which is being evaluated for the Indian market.

Unveiled at the Delhi motor show today, the six-seater is based on a stretched SX4 platform, and was conceived as a smaller rival for the ultra-successful Toyota Innova.

The production version - which is reported to be 18-24 months from reality - is expected to be built on a monocoque so that it is more car-like in its driving characteristics than a typical body-on-frame design.

The R3 is expected to be powered by Maruti Suzuki's K-series petrol engine in 1.2 and 1.4-litre variants, while a Fiat-derived 1.3-litre diesel is a possibility.

However, VW’s recent purchase of a 20 per cent stake in Suzuki raises the possibility of engines from the German car maker finding their way into the R3.

Thanks to: Autocar