A quick look at the top 10:

10. Police in the Netherlands have a hand-built Spyker C8. The Spyder Roadster uses a V-8 Audi 4.2 Liter power plant to push this cruiser to its limits in terms of speed and handling. However, it doesn’t quite have the same curb appeal as:

9. Lamborghini Gallardo. Two vehicles in London’s Metropolitan Police have been used since 2005 and 2006 as publicity, provided by Lamborghini. Often referred to as the Yellow Gallardos they bear the yellow and blue markings and are fitted with a small light bar. They are not however, used as part of the department’s regular cruiser force.

8. There’s not much that can be said about the Mini Cooper version of a police car, other that their power plant and sturdy frame can take them many places that traditionally sized police cars can’t go.

7. For luxury, the Lexus IS Humberside features a 5 Liter V-8 with a top speed of 168 miles per hour, although it could be faster except for the electronic governor limits. The extra communications equipment and computers in the vehicle has not slowed it down any and aids officers in their pursuit of the ne’er do wells.

6. Not many crooks can take their eyes off a Porsche Carrera S, especially when it’s flashing red and blue lights in their rear view mirror. This cruiser was used in Germany to attempt to promote car safety as well as some of the illegal methods car lovers use to outfit their vehicles.

5. With many car companies developing show vehicles, putting together police cars, Ferrari wasn’t left out of the loop with its 612 Scaglietti HGTS. The special cruiser, housing the V-12 four-seat vehicle was part of its 60^th anniversary parade through the United Kingdom.

4. When Sussex police get together with young drivers and talk about road safety, the youngsters pay more attention with the police show up in their Lotus Exige. Showing up in such as vehicle often gets the youngsters’ attention and allows the police to address road safety issues.

3. The Mitsubishi Evo-X Lancer offers more than just performance and power. Its image plays a strong part in disturbing crime on the Yorkshire streets in the United Kingdom. The sight of the vehicle is often enough to eliminate the need for a high-speed chase.

2. Only one U.S. vehicle, the Chevrolet Camaro is considered one the coolest police vehicles, but this one, built on a Camaro SS frame, a local car shop built this vehicle for the Haltom City, Texas department and has a muscle-car influence in the community.

1. The number one coolest police car is the 225-mile per hour V-12 housed in a Mercedes CLS Brabus Rocket. It was built for a safety campaign in Germany, but it still causes excitement when it is seen at motor shows around the world.

The Article is a contribution by John Smith; John has a passion for cars and technology, he often looks out for new and innovative technology. His great knowledge makes him an avid writer as well. Visit his site Aanbesteding politievoertuigen and politie aanbesteding.

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With a new year dawning in just a few more days, the choice of a new car could be a pending resolution. Presented with a wide variety of vehicle brands, model and types in 2011, the 2012 calendar guarantees customers will have even more to choose from at dealership lots. Impressive fuel economy, pint-sized performance and efficiently planned cargo space are some motivating factors behind the upcoming production vehicle offerings.

Thanks to the somewhat confusing nature of model year classifications by auto companies, some of the automobiles expected within the upcoming 12 months are actually labelled as 2013 cars. The following list of released or soon-to-be released products is some key vehicle prospects for 2012.

2013 Ford Escape

Despite the fact many automotive journalists would have deemed the current Ford Escape as a dated, truck-like compact utility vehicle, customers clambered for the versatile product ringing in 228,719 in sales up to November of 2011. Unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show last month, the all-new 2013 Ford Escape adapts more car-like design attributes with a curvier, aerodynamic outer structure. Powering what will be front and all-wheel drive versions will be a 2.5 liter inline-four cylinder or one of two optional EcoBoost engines. The 2-liter turbocharged and direct-injected EcoBoost boasts a horsepower total close to the predeceasing Escape. Ford Motor Company has chosen not to engineer a hybrid version of the 2013 Escape insisting the 1.6 liter EcoBoost engine provides high fuel efficiency without the expense of electric motors and batteries. Besides the engines, the 2013 Ford Escape will employ several other innovations including improved MyFord Touch and hands-free power tailgate.

Mitsubishi i

The Mitsubishi i have been sold in Japan as a gasoline-powered or electric model for several years; North American customers will only receive the electric powertrain model of the subcompact car. Mitsubishi’s first electric vehicle to be sold in the United States, the 66-horsepower i subcompact car has been a temptress for the past several years on the auto show circuit in North America to green fans. Measuring only 144.8 inches in length, the small stature if the 2012 Mitsubishi i balances comfort, safety and weight. In a marketplace that is becoming inundated with the electric or electric-assisted powertrains, the Mitsubishi i have one quality that could lure a few adopters to this zero emission driving craze. Mitsubishi is pricing the electric-powered i under $30,000 before a set $7,500 federal tax credit.

Ferrari FF

Classic elements merge with modern technology and expertise to craft the Ferrari FF. The V-12 powerplant configuration is a familiar Ferrari trait on the FF. Producing 651 horsepower, the 6.3 liter, 12-cylinder engine features the efficiency of direct injection based on Ferrari’s new HELE (High Emotion Low Emissions) philosophy. The Ferrari FF is powered by the Italian automaker’s first production bound all-wheel drive system called 4RM. Styled by Ferrari’s long-time design collaborator Pininfarina, the FF supercar employs elegant exterior touches despite adapting to an unusual ‘shooting brake’ shape. A 2+2 sports car bringing plenty of refreshing nuances to the Ferrari division, the all-new FF most astonishing feature is presented at a spot uncommon for exotic cars. Providing a more than adequate 15.9 cubic feet of cargo room with four passengers, this Ferrari features fold-down rear seats that opens up the interior cargo dimensions to 28.3 cubic feet. Capable of up to 208 miles per hour, the Ferrari FF’s combination of usable ergonomics will become an eye-catching spectacle in the supercar market for 2012.

Scion iQ

Sold in Japan and Europe under the Toyota badge, the iQ existed in production since 2008 as an ultra-fuel efficient microcar. Arriving in North America under the youthful Scion badge, the Japanese-branded Smart Fortwo challenger will find favour as a convenient city car. Starting at just above $15,000, buyers will find a high amount of refinement inside of the “3+1” cabin shielding occupants with 11 airbags for safety. The Scion iQ comes standard equipped with a 1.3 liter four-cylinder engine generating 94 horsepower. Linked to a continuously variable transmission, Scion iQ fuel economy in the high 30s range is realistic. A mere 120.1 inches in total length, navigating the iQ would be a breeze even when entering tight parallel parking spots.

Volkswagen Golf R

One of the ultimate factory-prepped sport compacts currently sold in Europe, the Volkswagen Golf R has been a high performance terror. In 2012, the North American market has secured for limited release of the all-wheel drive Golf R. The Volkswagen Golf R combines the Haldex® all-wheel drive system and a six-speed manual transmission along with sportier handling to provide a sensational road manner. Powered by a 256 horsepower, turbocharged 2-liter engine, the 2012 Volkswagen Golf R takes under six seconds to launch to 60 miles per hour from a standstill. Presented in three and five door versions, visual cues identifying the Golf R from its lower powered counterpart is the unique rear diffuser, front grille as well as brake calipers painted in gloss black.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The modern pony car wars will enter into a new phase this spring as the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 targets the Ford Shelby GT500 in 2012. Featuring a 580-horsepower, supercharged 6.2 liter V-8 engine, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1′s recently-released track specifications confirm this pony car will be an accomplishment for American-badged performance. 0 to 60-mile per hour acceleration for the 2012 Camaro ZL1 is rated at 3.9 seconds en route to a top speed of 184 miles per hour. Securing the efficient transfer of horsepower to the pavement, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 comes with standard Performance Traction Management System allowing a driver to tailor handling attributes to street or track. Magnetic Ride Control included with the Performance Traction Control System insures the Goodyear tires mounted on 20-inch forged aluminum wheels will be spinning in the name of quality performance. Coming only in the form of the Camaro coupe for its 2012 introduction, a convertible version of the ZL1 package is promised for 2013 customers. Also for the 2013 model year, the Ford Shelby GT500 is expected to up its game against the Camaro ZL1. With 650 horsepower attached to the upcoming GT500, 2012 will remain the domain for the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Information source: Ford Motor Company, Ferrari, General Motors, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Toyota Motor Corporation, VW Group

Photo source: Chris Nagy, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, VW Group

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An Observation for Japanese abundant drive in design and innovation creativity, the Tokyo Motor Show has been a location symbolizing forward thinking. The Tokyo Motor Show has served as a unique showcase of cars, trucks and motorcycles depicting bold ideas along with the occasional bizarre attraction. Giving consumers a peek at new arrivals for dealerships, the 2011 show is presenting the world a look at new production vehicles such as Toyota GT-86, Subaru BRZ and Mazda’s car displaying I-ELOOP hybrid technology. Cars like Volkswagen’s Cross Coupe Concept and the most extreme design study of the year, the Toyota Fun-Vii provides a strong statement to a wide-open vision for global motoring. Presenting the future of motoring, the 2011 edition auto exhibition at Tokyo’s Big Sight venue serves importantly in the recuperation during a difficult present.

Held first in 1954, the Tokyo Motor Show was held to highlight the products created by a people recovering from their imperialistic errors of the 1930s that ultimately led to direct combat with the United States during World War Two. Demonstrating modest and utilitarian vehicles for an new, evolving culture, the Tokyo Motor Show beginnings would see Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Mitsubishi (a diverse corporation that debuted their very first vehicle at the 1959 event) gain steps into the Japanese marketplace. As Japanese auto brands became increasingly more global, the Tokyo Motor Show grew into a spotlight event for the car business when European and even American manufacturers fought for exhibition space. The precursor vehicle to the Audi R8 (the Avus concept sports car) was a significant world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1991. In recent years, the Honda FCX and the Nissan GT-R were some of the high-profile production cars the Japanese exhibition brought to light.

As automotive entities arrived at the Tokyo Big Sight venue for the 2011 exhibit, this show staging came just short of nine months after Japan’s worst environmental disaster. On March 11, a 9.0 magnitude underwater earthquake shook the Asian country violently. The Earthquake spawned an equally as destructive tsunami that ultimately led to the lives of almost 16,000 people being lost (including an employee at the Honda R&D Center in Tochigi). Placing second below the human loss of Japan’s worst natural event, a country’s massive industrial complex was brought to a halt due to damage and power interruptions.

The Japanese auto industry shutdown not only slowed productivity on the Asian island but surged worldwide as vital vehicles and parts were unable to flow out of the country for almost a month. Possessing large North American assembly capacity, American and Canadian workers at Honda as well as Nissan plants operated under reduced capacity for months following the disaster. For Honda, it wasn’t until August when Honda’s supply to North American plants for the Civic and Accord returned to full capacity. Toyota, Subaru, Suzuki, Mazda and Mitsubishi also suffered global productivity setbacks throughout 2011 year.

Nearly nine months since the disaster, Japanese auto companies have returned to full operations for the most part but continued to haunted by sales sheet declines through 2011. With production hindrances more than likely playing a role, many of the leading Japanese automakers are heading into the end of the year posting regional and even global losses. Toyota has recorded a 7.5 percent decline in United States vehicle sales in 2011 compared to previous year. In the 11 months of this year, the top Japanese automaker’s Lexus division (consisting largely of cars built in Japan) holds a 14.2 percent drop over 2010. Honda’s tightened supply through much of this year has also been a contributing factor to a 5.5 percent drop in American sales for the 11 months of 2011. Mitsubishi Motors production for the first six months within the country of Japan fell by 12.6 percent. One of the few bright notes was Nissan that actually bettered Japan corporate rivals by increasing global sales by 18.8 percent for 2011. Nissan’s success could be owed to sizeable amounts of part and vehicle sources outside of Japan. However, the electric Nissan Leaf’s production in Japan slowed the distribution of the very hot new vehicle.

While Japanese auto companies returned to normality over the summer of 2011 in the production of vehicles, the effects of the earthquake and tsunami left these companies in-line with their national community. Five of the major Japanese auto manufacturers immediately donated the equivalent of over 13 million dollars US of aid on top of other provisions including blankets, generators and forklifts. Showing unity, autoworkers and other individuals of regions outside of Japan were also generous to their colleagues. American Honda Motor Company and the Red Cross teamed up to raise money to help aid the Japanese people. For days following the earthquake, Nissan provided their headquarters in Yokohama City as a temporary shelter. A wonderful scene of humanity overcoming the typical coldness of corporation allowed the first steps following this natural disaster aftermath to be made for all Japanese citizens still dealing with hurt.

A much-needed public celebration of engineering marvels, Japanese auto companies are seeking a lot of support from the biennially scheduled world-class event. Similar to the auto shows proceeding after the government-assisted bailouts of General Motors and Chrysler little more than a year ago, the Tokyo Motor Show for 2011 is something more than a display of cars, trucks or motorcycles. The auto companies of Japan are the compilation of people who have committed themselves to move forward. Without forgetting the past, the present and future seeks to carry on an overall spirit of progressive innovation. The attending crowd for the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show have witnessed first-hand the resilience of an auto market seeing the optimism with every vehicle presentation. Unlike several North American auto shows in Chicago and Los Angeles that remain secretive on actual event attendance, the 2011 Tokyo grandly announces the daily count at the turnstiles. After 8 days of public exhibition, the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show has entertained 513,200 admirers of the transportation culture.

Enduring from what has been a year of struggles, the auto manufacturers of Japan are positioning themselves to overcome hard times with a driven intention.

Information source: American Honda Motor Company, Nissan Americas, Tokyo Motor Show
Photo source: Unnamed photographers via Newspress UK

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Mitsubishi has laid out a path for itself over the next few years that is a lot different than its past strategy. In the United States and around the world, Mitsubishi has risked being pushed to the fringes. A lot of its vehicles are priced within the mainstream but sales have been down.

Mitsubishi is pushing forward full-speed with electric and hybrid vehicles. The results of the effort is the subcompact iMiEV, which is priced at $27,790 before government tax incentives. The car has a range of 85 miles and will be going on sale in California, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii starting next month. With a large part of its future around hybrids and electrics, where does the Lancer Evolution fit into all of this?

Some reports earlier this year said that Mitsubishi would axe the Evo because they felt its continuation would clash with the company’s new mission. Gayu Eusegi, Mitsubishi’s global product director, said as much: “There is still a demand, but we must stop…our influence now is EV technology.” Yikes. Fans were understandably incensed. Thankfully, Autocar reports today that an eleventh Evo is in fact coming, just one different than we have ever seen before.

The next-generation car will be paired with a hybrid drivetrain. That doesn’t have to be a bad thing. As is done in racing (Porsche knows a little something about this), hybrids can be tuned for performance, taking advantage of the torque offered by electric motors. There is more though; instead of a gas powered 2.0-liter turbo four, the Evo could switch that out for a diesel unit. Far fetched? The news comes right from the top, Mitsubishi president Osamu Masuko.

As for a time frame, Masuko says three years: “I have set the goal of developing a sporting car featuring electric power. We will start work on the project next year, and it will be ready within three.” It will be interesting to see how it turns out, that’s for sure. Evo fans are hard to please though. We’re glad to see Mitsubishi not ditching performance altogether though. Long live the Evo!

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The aftermath of the deadly Japanese earthquake and tsunami continues to leave the Asian country on alert. Earthquake aftershocks following the violent 8.7 magnitude shake, massive rationing of everyday goods, power supply and nuclear radiation concerns as well as the fact that many unfortunate people have lost lives has provided a reason for sombre time. However, some optimism reigns for when the sadness can be dealt with moving forward. Japanese auto companies (like many other industries and offices in the region) have positioned themselves along with their employees taking stock in the recent events, helping whenever possible.

Honda, Nissan and Toyota provided immediate, official accounts to damage and injures but several waited until further evaluations of the aftermath before releasing statements. After company assessments over the weekend Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Subaru and Suzuki reported on the situation of their operations. Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors and Suzuki sent out word Monday that their factories and headquarters escaped damage. This was not an immediate surprise since most of these automakers’ infrastructure was in the southern part of Japan, away from the earthquake epicenter. Despite minor damage to equipment, Subaru as well as its parent Fiji Heavy Industries, survived with the seismic event without loss.

Cooperating with energy conservation efforts in Japan as well as to insure the safety of employees, all automakers have suspended production for the Monday and Tuesday. The temporary ceasing of automotive manufacturing operations is also performed following assessment of several facilities and suppliers reported damage.

While the industry is currently idled in Japan, most of the country’s automaker who did not suffer major damage intends to be restarted later this week. Subaru, Toyota and some Nissan facilities plan to resume production on March 16th while Mitsubishi Motors has production set to restart the next day. Planning initially to be restarted Wednesday the 16th, Mazda revised their production idle to the 20th of March. Mazda cited their shutdown extension as a move to assure their employee’s well being.

While some plants are set to restart production on the 16th of March, Nissan and Honda plans regarding their harder hit operations will have some of the Japanese auto company starting later. Though the corporation reported six of their manufacturing plants suffering stress from the earthquake, Nissan’s Tochigi Plant (production facility for most notably the GT-R supercar) and the Iwaki Plant (builder of Nissan VQ series engines) sustained concerning damage in the natural disaster. Following the earthquake, fires were reported at both Nissan manufacturing plants that were promptly doused before spreading. With no major injuries or serious damage, Nissan will have the Tochigi Plant and Iwaki Plant complexes back in production by the March 18th.

Honda has been the only manufacturer to announce an on-site death of an employee. A 43-year old R&D associate in Tochigi was killed when a wall collapsed in the building’s cafeteria. While reporting one death, Honda injury toll in Tochigi is revised to 17 employees (dropping from an original account of 30). Suspending production until the next week, Honda’s intends to restart production of all plants for the 20th of March.

In their most recent press release, Honda also mentions the status of North American automobile production and supply. Saying the current situation has no immediate impact on the manufacturing plant in the United States and Canada. However, Honda is actively monitoring the supply line. Well 80% of their products are produced in North America, the Honda CR-Z, Fit as well as the Acura RL and TSX are imported directly from the recently closed Japanese facilities. Honda is also convinced they have enough Japanese-made vehicle components to sustain plants in the United States and Canada. Toyota and Nissan, who have manufacturing presence in the United States, were able to follow Honda’s suit by assuring North American stock of parts is sufficient for the short-term. However, Nissan is cautioning there will be delivery delays of the GT-R and 370Z. Fortunately for the company and North American customers, a ship of 600 Nissan Leaf electric vehicles that left a day ahead of the earthquake and tsunami is proceeding safely to the United States.

There are those who believe that an industry who propel people to prosperity. In reality, the converse is actually true. The Japanese people, despite their cultural of discipline and self-motivation, have been positioned in a time of need. Among those helping the cause for aid and assistance is Japan’s home-based auto companies. Honda, Toyota, Mazda and Nissan have donated a collective amount of 660 million yen (roughly the equivalent of $8.23 million US dollars) to aid efforts. Mitsubishi Corporation itself has provided 400 million yen (almost 5 million US dollars) in immediate aid to the relief preparations. Honda North America has also pledged to match Red Cross donations of the 29,000 employees without limit. Beyond monetary assistance, Honda is also donating 1,000 portable gas generators and 5,000 gas canisters. Nissan’s non-monetary work included the donation of vehicles and fork lifts as well as food and blankets. Most notably on the 11th of March, Nissan Global Headquarters in Yokohama City served as temporary shelter to 150 people affected by the natural disaster. In the building, food and warmth were provided in a show of corporate/community spirit.

The human toll is compiled in number, but the tragic reality is many of us can never be accurately measured since there is no true measure of a value of an individual life. As charity and human kindness is extended to the Japanese public in this dark time, we like forward to a brighter future as a global community whether dealing with a large corporate or a single person. One person expressing this hope is Toyota president Akio Toyoda who issued a personal statement first expressing “I offer my prayers to all those who lost their lives in the March 11 Tohoku Earthquake and its ensuing aftermath, as well as my sympathy to the survivors and their families.” Acknowledging the relief effort as the first priority, Toyoda ended saying “Determined to provide hope for not only those suffering and forced to undergo extreme hardships, but also for the region overall, we will do our utmost toward the realization of recovery.”

Information source: American Suzuki Motor Corporation, Honda Motor Company, Mazda Motor Corporation Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan Motor Company, Subaru, Toyota Motor Corporation

Photo source: Mazda Motor Corporation

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Certain to bring sadness to the Japanese performance crowd, affirmed reports have indicated the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution with Known affectionately simply as the Evo by enthusiasts, Mitsubishi’s top-performing compact sedan is a casualty to the Japanese car company’s new focus on hybrid and electric vehicles.

While the Evolution was a variation of the Mitsubishi Lancer, the model/trim combination created a pocket rocket earning itself separate acknowledgment. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution came to live in 1992 when the auto company devised a plan to dominate the World Rally Car championship. Applying a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive to the small Lancer sedan slowly allowed Mitsubishi to assert itself as a motorsport powerhouse. The biggest success for the Mitsubishi global rally car program came when the Lancer Evolution was in the hands of Finnish driver Tommi Mäkinen. Earning 22 victories over a six-season span between 1996 to 2001, Mäkinen took the drivers championship four-straight years. Mitsubishi won the manufacturers championship in 1998 with the Evolution IV as well as the newer V proving superior over the Toyota Corolla and the Subaru Impreza WRC cars.

By 2003, 7 versions of the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution were sold in Japan as rally car rules dictated the race vehicle must be largely production-based in origin. However, as the Lancer Evolution started to win rally races, the world automobile market began requesting the high-powered compact sedan. Reluctant for 11 years, Mitsubishi finally appeased the United States market by officially bringing the Lancer Evolution VIII to dealerships. Mitsubishi suspended their official support on the World Rally Car stage after the 2005 season but continued their super sport compact theme in 2008 model year when the Lancer Evolution X was built. Accepted as the most aggressive model, 291 horsepower through a highly-intelligent all-wheel drive system meant performance potential which could rival most sports cars.

The current Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is expected to remain in production through 2012 model year with the possibility of 2013 being the ultimate last production run. The Lancer sedan itself is likely to continue following Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution’s ceasing production.

With no plans for carrying on the Evo version of the Mitsubishi Lancer, it remains to be seen if their could be an Evolution in the future. Besides trumpeting in horsepower, high-performance vechicles are known to inspire a rather passionate following too many automakers have regretted ignoring. The demise of the Camaro in 2002 proved costly to the image of Chevrolet as the GM-based pony car was clearly missed by fans. The recent return of the Chevrolet Camaro sent a massive surge of energy through the new General Motors just in time to benefit the company emerging from bankruptcy. Chrysler’s Dodge brand were more prompt when they were canceling production of the current Viper supercar. Realizing they were taking the spirit away from the division, Chrysler quickly reassured the public a new Dodge Viper is on the way.

Approaching 20 years transforming the sport compact category, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution will become a noticeable departure.

Information source: Automotive News, Mitsubishi Motors
Photo source: Mitsubishi Motors

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Picking up the production-ready electric car in the 21st century almost exactly 100 years after the time automotive powertrain was last considered a viable product, auto makers are excitedly embracing the alternative to the internal combustion engine in efforts to win over the tech-savvy, eco crowd. The all-electric contingent within the next 2-year period includes the Nissan Leaf, an electric Ford Focus and Transit Connect as well as a possible entry from Honda. Joining these ranks in the United States will be Mitsubishi showing off their electric powerplant version of their i micro car.

For almost two years traveling on the North American auto show circuit, Mitsubishi i-MIEV unveils their production-based example (picture at top of page);a car which could soon be in your and your neighbour’s driveway. Premiering at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show opening to the public on November 19th, the all-electric Mitsubishi i-MIEV makes a preview ahead of its year end sales debut.

Beholding the Mitsubishi i-MIEV for the first time in American production form, astute onlookers of the concept car will note a more macro look to this micro car. In accommodating this micro Mitsubishi to the North American driving climate, reengineering of the Japanese-based i-MIEV required some enlargements to meet safety standards as well as the everyday differences of passengers on this continent. Lengthened by the near equivalent of a foot at 285 millimeters (11.22 inches), the increase distance from front to rear bumper is due largely to beefier bumpers required to meet US crash safety requirements. With only an incremental change to the overall height, the remaining dimension adjusted on this North American Mitsubishi i-MIEV is width. Stretched by 110 millimeters (4.33 inches) to an 1,585 millimeter overall width, the i-MIEV is said to be more comfortable for adult seating four.

Complying closely with the concept car previously shown, the Mitsubishi i-MIEV powertrain is already revealed. Slated to use a 47 kilowatt permanent magnet motor, a lithium-ion battery pack will supply 330 volts of circuit. Offering no official details on performance characteristics prior to exhibition in the Los Angeles Convention Center, it is uncertain if the increased mass of the North American Mitsubishi i-MIEV will retain travel range and speed of the Japanese or European versions. The specifications of the non-American model of the i-MIEV indicates a maximum speed of 130 kilometers per hour (under 81 MPH) with a top cruising range of 160 kilometers (99.5 miles).

Besides highlighting the electric powerplant, the small i-MIEV also boasts a healthy inclusion of active and passive safety systems. Standard equipment on all Mitsubishi i-MIEV models, Intelligent air bags, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and the company’s Active Stability Control.

Information source: Mitsubishi Motors USA
Photo source: Chris Nagy, Mitsubishi Motors USA

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2010 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ

The Fusion and MKZ brand new for 2010 to better compete with the offerings from Honda, Toyota, and Chevrolet for the Ford while the Lincoln goes after Infiniti, Lexus and Cadillac.

The Fusion is priced to compete and even undercut its rivals, with a base price of under $20,000. Most other competitors a few thousand more. The MKZ is a bit more expensive, with $34,600 buying you leather, wood and chrome accents on the exterior.

Both cars are all-new this year, riding on the new Mazda6 platform again. The Fusion retains the three-bar front grill to keep in line with the previous-gen car, but now has a more pronounced front-end and Terminator-like headlights. The rear gets more styling cues in the bumper and trunk lid while the LED taillights dip in one corner to give the rear more of an appeal.

On the other hand, the MKZ gets a bit more radical treatment to it’s front end. Essentially a shrunken copy of the upcoming MK-T, the new look follows the radical design path Lincoln seems to be applying. I applaud them for that. It may not be to everyone’s taste, but it’s an edgy, yet sophisticated application of the new look. The sides and rear of the car are a carryover design, and unfortunately do not reflect the new styling.

Inside, there are flat, but comfortable buckets up front in the Fusion. The gauges are terrific with big numbering lighted by a soft blue glow. The center stack, however, suffers from a growing problem of over-buttoning, in which the entire center stack is awash in many small buttons. There is a good quality feel, which is following Ford’s rapid improvement in material quality.

In the MKZ, there is that much more upscale feel to it. There is a sublte touch of wood, the cleaner layout of the center stack and the optional Bridge of Weir leather upholstery greatly differentiate the Lincoln from the less expensive Fusion.

I drove the Fusion Sport, the top level with 18-inch wheels, leather, optional Sony sound system and a 3.5-liter, 263 horsepower engine sending power through all four wheels (a four-cylinder engine is available). Around the track, off the line acceleration was good, with the V6 producing good low-end torque. I would’ve liked a bit more in the higher in the rev range, but I would rather have the low-end. The six-speed gives solid shifts up into higher gears, but is reluctant to downshift.

Throwing a car designed to transport a family around a racetrack can make for some scary moments, but outside of the brakes being cooked, it was enjoyable. The steering, while light-weight (see a trend here Ford?), was easily chucked into a corner and responded eagerly. Feel was good, but could be better with the weight turned up.

The MKZ tested was done on the streets, where we could test the claim of whether the QuietCraft interior worked. It did, naturally, and the ride was incredibly supple without any wobble. It handled both choppy roads and corners just fine, but it wasn’t as enjoyable to push hard like I did in the Fusion. My major gripe was the turning circle was far too large, needing more than one back-up trying to turn around.

Ford has been able to hide from the lashing of the government and press, but it is obvious they have some good products.

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

When the rumors starting going around about a rear-drive replacement for the Hyundai Tiburon coupe, I was skeptical. The Koreans could not possibly pull it off.

Oh how wrong was I.

The new platform from Hyundai is the basis of a serious machine. Shared with the also-new Genesis sedan, this is one one incredibly capable machine. Offered in either a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.8-liter V6, the Genesis can offer a whole lot for under $25,000. Both engines can be had with either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic for the 2.0T or a six-speed auto from ZF in the 3.8. Both can be optioned with a Track package offering Brembo brakes, limited slip differential and firmer suspension settings.

My choice would be the 3.8 Track with the excellent automatic. The V6 pulls so much cleaner than the 2.0T, and the ZF auto has the quickest shifts this side of a dual-clutch. And does the V6 sound incredible, with a deep baritone dual exhaust note that will make V8 guys nod in appreciation. There’s leather seating, a powerful Infinity sound system, Bluetooth hands-free phone, and interior quality right in line with Hyundai and other vehicle in the price range.

Handling was equally impressive, with flat cornering and loads of grip. The Genesis coupe felt very balanced coming through the corners and the Brembos were strong. It did have a tendency to understeer in the tight corners of Road America, but backing off quickly reigned it back in.

My issues are few, but far too hard to overlook. I was not impressed by the 2.0T at all. It was unwilling to rev, it sounded muddy and held onto revs far too long. The manual transmissions in both were very rubbery and transmitted far too much of the engine’s harshness into the cabin. And its looks are those that only a blind mother could love

For their first attempt at something of this magnitude, the Hyundai will have a smash hit on their hands.

2009 Mitsubish Lancer Ralliart

Mistubishi needed a vehicle to fill the middle ground left open by the pedestrian Lancer and the hot-rod EvoX to help the brand compete directly with Subaru, its arch WRC nemesis.

Priced at $27,000 and using a detuned 2.0-liter out of the Evo, the Ralliart produces 237 horses and sends it to the pavement via an older version of the Evo’s all-wheel drive system. In theory, this could work. A cheaper version of an Evo that will keep up with the fanboys in their WRXs. However, there are many problems with this car.

First, there is the engine. Sure, it’s got the power to boot you down the road, but there is far too much lag. And once the single-scroll turbo builds boost, it slaps you across the face when you are not expecting it. It’s very hard to accelerate smoothly.

Second, the transmission choice, or lack there of. Buyers are relegated to Mitsu’s six-speed Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift. I tried the more advanced version of this transmission in an EvoX MR on the track (which will be covered in another article) and it performed very well, with quick shifts and smart technology to put you in the right gear for turns. On the street, however, it is terrible. Even in Normal mode, the transmission hesitates too long, and then slams into the next gear.

Then there is the ride, which is equivalent to riding an hydraulic bull in your favorite watering hole. The Ralliart bucks at every heave and you feel every since imperfection on your backside. The ultra-bolstered, but rock-hard Recaro buckets didn’t help much either.

There are positive to this mid-range Lancer. It’s got untold amounts of grip and the steering is razor sharp, with the all-wheel drive’s front helical and rear limited-slip working nicely to keep you planted. The brakes are quite strong as well. The Ralliart is also incredibly roomy for its size and I like the look of the exterior.

This car promised to deliver as a good alternative to the Subaru, but it needs a lot more work before it can be considered worthy.

2009 Subaru WRX Premium

Since its arrival in the States in 2002, the Subaru WRX has quickly become a cult favorite for it’s reliable, 227 horsepower Boxer engines, excellent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and reasonable prices. It was joined in 2006 by the 300 horsepower WRX STI.

Subaru made some tweaks to the refreshed WRX in 2007. It gave it a new, fresher look as well as adding the option of a five-door hatch. Inside, there’s a completely new interior using softer, better quality materials. Subaru went further to correct customer complaints, namely a weak engine and soft suspension compared to its competition.

For 2009, the WRX gets a mid-range model, called the Premium, as well as receiving a 38 horsepower increase and retuned suspension. Do the changes work?

Once the turbo builds boost on the 2.5-liter engine, the WRX flies. It’s not a light switch either, where the car slowly pulls away and then your slammed into your seat. It is a strong, linear pull all the way to redline.

In the corners on the track, you can tell the suspension has been button up quite a bit, but there is still too much body roll happening, especially in the tighter corners. But the steering feels sharper and more precise. And the embroidered seats are wonderfully bolstered and covered in a grippy material to keep you planted.

A few other complaints. One is the shifter. The five-speed felt positive, but felt rubbery going into third. Also, the clutch was very unforgiving and it had the characteristics of a rubber band. Then there are the looks. It honestly looks like a Toyota Corolla with better looking wheels.

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What?! ARRGH! In the words of Charlie Brown, ARRGH!

Mitsubishi recently announced that they have decided to pull the plug on their factory operations racing in the Dakar Rally as well as all other cross-country rally events. You know, the usual (for this period) reasons: economic downturn etc etc etc. Still, this is a blow.

Mitsubishi has run, and done very, very well in the Dakar rally on twenty-six occasions, winning a total of twelve times, including seven consecutive victories. So for them to drop out of the Dakar is sort of like the Yankees dropping out of baseball.

Then again …

Then again, look at it from Mitsubishi’s (possible) perspective: What else do they have to prove? They’ve essentially crushed all comers in the Dakar (no small feet right there), and are currently viewed as THE team to beat, so why carry on?

They are, in a lot of ways, the exact opposite of someone like Honda’s (now shuttered) Formula One effort. Honda, as you may recall decided to ditch F1, they said, because of the bad economic climate, but really it was because they were tired of spending hundreds of millions of dollars to end up at the back of the grid time and time again, fighting like hell to pass cars like Force India, let alone getting thumped by the Red Bull junior team.

Mitsubishi is the opposite of that in Dakar/ Cross-Country Rallies. They’re at the top, and have been at the top for quite some time, so why not pull a Mary Tyler Moore and leave now?

Why indeed … the series (such as it is) will miss their presence to be sure, and it will also put a lot of crews onto the market, but this can also be seen as good news for all the other competitors out there.

VW, who has been doing great things with their race Touaregs but just can’t seem to catch a break in the luck department, must be pretty happy with Mitsu’s announcement. Maybe Carlo Sainz can finally get a good bounce and add a Dakar trophy to his already overburdened mantelpiece.

Source: CarScoop

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Ever since man began making cars for more than just getting from A to B, two-door coupes have been a sign of automotive enthusiasm and overall sportiness that a four-door sedan simply could not fulfill. A recent wave of sport sedans and four-door coupes have been introduced to the market, but for us sports car enthusiasts, they just aren’t good enough.

For the purposes of this article, we’re referring to a sedan as a car with four doors, and coupe as a car with two doors, even though the technical definition of the two terms are slightly different. Please see Coupe vs Sedan for more information regarding the technical differences.

So which new cars are produced as sedan-only, when they should be offered as coupes? Keep reading…

Lexus IS-F

The Lexus IS-F’s 5.0-liter V8 develops 416 horsepower and is controlled by an 8-speed paddle-shifted transmission through a RWD drivetrain. Why it looks almost identical to the weakling 2.5-liter IS250 is beyond me. If I’m going to buy a $60,000+ supercar, I don’t want it to be a 4-door sedan. Actually, I think the whole IS line should be offered in a two-door variation. It is, after all, Lexus’ sportiest model behind the overrated SC.

Pontiac G8

So Pontiac has the G6 – a capable and sporty midsize car with up to 252 hp, offered in coupe, sedan, and convertible variations. Then we have the G5 – a completely pointless compact, which is nothing but a rebadged Chevy Cobalt Coupe. But the only Pontiac which could be called a true sports car – the G8 – is only offered as a sedan.

The G8 GXP features GM’s LS3 engine – a 6.2-liter V8 producing 415 horsepower, propelling the car from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Pontiac’s most powerful car is also one of their only cars not offered as a coupe.

Acura TL

It’s no secret that I’m not a fan of the new design direction Acura has taken for 2009, but I can’t deny that they’re upping their game for all 2009 models. The Acura TL is a perfect example. It’s a step above the entry-level Acura TSX, and a sportier option than the luxurious RL.

Acura gave up on coupes when they canceled the RSX after 2006, but this didn’t make sense to me since Acura has always been a sporty brand. You could argue that the Acura TSX is better fitted to be a coupe, but it’s just a rebadged Honda Accord, and we already have a very capable Accord Coupe. The 2008 Acura TL offered a Type-S version which was very sexy, but the redesigned TL doesn’t get a sportier version. Hopefully 2010 will bring us a TL-S Coupe.

Honda Civic MUGEN Si

For the 2008 model year, Honda produced a very limited run of a MUGEN-tuned Civic Si Sedan. The Civic Si is available for both the coupe and sedan, but the MUGEN variation – which included a tuned exhaust, lightweight 18-inch wheels, sport suspension, and a body kit – only came available as a sedan. You’d think Honda would give the sportier Civic Coupe the honor of doning the MUGEN badges.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evo has always been known for its excellent performance-to-dollar ratio. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces 291 horsepower and 300 ft/lbs of torque through a 6-speed paddle-shifting gearbox. Plus, it got around Top Gear’s test track faster than a Dodge Viper SRT-10. Doesn’t it deserve to look like a proper sports car? Yes, Mitsubishi has the two-door Eclipse available, and that’s the only reason I’m not bitching about the regular Lancer being a sedan only. But the Evolution? Come on.

Subaru Impreza WRX

Speaking of fast Top Gear lap times, the Stig pushed the Subaru Impreza WRX STi around the track 1/50 of a second faster than the aforementioned Lancer Evo. If Subaru doesn’t think this 305 horsepower, AWD, Alcantara-clad beast deserves sport coupe status, what do they think does?

Cadillac CTS

At the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Cadillac unveiled the sexy CTS Coupe Concept, which gave me hope for this whole domestic car thing after all. Instead, they released the beastly CTS-V for 2009, which boasts a ridiculous (in a good way) 556 horsepower, making it the fastest sedan in history. That’s OK though, since this means that if they do decide to make a CTS Coupe variation, the CTS-V Coupe will be unstoppable.

Did I miss any, or do you think I’m wrong about any (or all) of these? Please leave your comments below.

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Now, Mitsubishi isn’t the biggest player, actually, not even the player that it once was. At the moment, they have only 5 models (I believe) in the North American market. So Mitsu pulling out isn’t a really really huge blow, but still … it makes you wonder, doesn’t it. Especially when you notice that Nissan (!) has also pulled out.

Now, a lot of these companies aren’t ditching ALL US auto shows, just Detroit. Indeed, a lot of them are putting more emphasis on the Los Angeles Show. So to me, this isn’t a dis to the NA market as a whole, just more of a shot across the bow of the once proud USS Detroit; flagship of the U.S. auto industry.

If the past few weeks haven’t pointed out just how shaky the ground that GM, Ford and Chrysler is standing on (the begging to congress, the plummeting sales figures, the idling of plants etc. etc. and sadly, etc.), then the fact that Porsche, Suzuki, Ferrari, Land Rover and Rolls-Royce, and Nissan, and Mitsubishi announcements just punctuates the instability.

OK guys, you SAY that you make the best cars in the world; you SAY that the American auto worker is the best in the world … well dammit, you better start making good on those statements, and right fast.

Source: AutoBlog

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For those of you out there that have not seen any coverage of the Paris to Dakar race, you really should check it, it’s flat out amazing

It’s like a round from the World Rally Championship, only more insane, and somehow deadlier. This years running was canceled because of “terrorist fears”. Most of the time, that’s a BS spin on a situation but for Paris Dakar, it’s a serious worry. I remember a few years back, one crew drifted off course in the desert, stumbled upon some separatists, and were SHOT right then and there. BANG!

I know the crowd can get kind of rowdy at a NASCAR race, but when was the last time you heard of someone from the infield and Darlington snatching up Jimmy Johnson from the middle of the race and shooting him?

So clearly, you’re going to need a special kind of racing car to handle an event like this.

Here’s Mitsubishi’s answer:

The Mitsubishi Racing Lancer, equipped with a 3.0-liter, turbocharged, V6 diesel engine putting out 254 HP and a stump pulling 480 lb-ft of torque. all that grunt goes to the ground via a Ricardo-designed sequential six speed transmission driving all four wheels.

Bitchin’!

Paris to Dakar will be back next year (a safer, less terrorist infected route is promised), so we’ll have to bide our time until January of ’09, but when it does roll around, I’ll be watching.

Source: Jalopnik

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Recently, my brother moved from the Big Apple back to Pittsburgh for a new job. Since he would walk, take the subway, or catch a cab if he needed to go anywhere, he never needed a vehicle in Manhattan. However, the sprawling suburbs of the Steel City have not been blessed with an adequate public transportation system. So he is in the market for a new car.

The ideal car for him would be something small, four-door, and frugal on gas, but at the same time, fun to drive. There are plenty of vehicles that fit this niche, but after some initial searching and brand preferences, he narrowed it down to three choices: the 2008 Mazda3s Touring, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer GTS, and the 2009 Toyota Corolla XRS. Each car was similarly equipped, with power everything, manual transmission, sunroof, upgraded stereo, sport-appearance packages, etc.

As my family’s resident car guru, I was invited along as a second opinion and to make sure he knew what to look for and how to feel each vehicle. So, I thought I would do a little comparison of each vehicle for you all to enjoy.

Three Versions of “Sporty”

As I stated earlier, each version of the vehicles test-driven were constructed with the sporty trim, with bigger wheels and racier bodywork. The Lancer GTS came with an aggressive-looking front bumper, a stylish wing, and larger 18-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels riding on Dunlop tires.

Toyota’s entry featured a similar front bumper to the Lancer, with lower chinspoilers wrapping around the front bumper, a small wing and 17-inch wheel and tire combo. Compared to the other two, the Mazda was not quite in-your-face as the others, with its more tailored bodywork and 17-inch “snowflake” wheels.

In addition to the bodywork, each vehicle had the more powerful engine that was offered. Both the Toyota and Mitsubishi had 2.4 liter four-cylinder engines, while the Mazda came with a slightly smaller 2.3 liter. All came with their manufacturers’ version of variable valve timing in addition to dual overhead camshafts. Bolted to each engine was a five-speed manual gearbox.

While each car was gussied up (or not in the 3′s case), each had a much different feeling when out on the road.

The Mitsubishi, having been redone a few years ago and receiving a new 168 horsepower, 2.4 liter engine this year, is vastly improved over the previous generation. No longer will you strain to get the car into a higher gear, and there’s no need to downshift to a lower gear to accelerate. Plus, it is much smoother in its operation as well as been much less obtrusive.

The Toyota’s 2.4 puts out a slightly smaller power output of 158 horses, but it feels the most robust of the group. Full throttle acceleration was surprising and the only indication of acceleration was a muted exhaust and the swing of the tachometer.

Mazda’s smaller engine also had the smallest engine output, at 156 horsepower. But while down on the power, it was still able to accelerate with good authority from any speed and in any gear. At a drag strip, it would keep itself right next to the other cars.

What the Mazda lacked in power numbers, however, it made up for in pretty much ever other aspect of what a sporty car should be. The steering was the sharpest, with quick turn-in, good weight and feedback through the steering wheel, and little body roll. Clutch uptake was somewhat more weighted than the others, but it was the easiest to make quick, clean shifts. The shifter was also the better choice, with a short pattern and just-right weighted mechanism.

That doesn’t mean that the other two were hopeless. The Mitsubishi was easy to drive, with a balanced chassis and well-engineered steering that was sharper and more communicative than before. However, the shifter movement was far too light and vague to really row it when having fun. The clutch was short and effortless and is best suited for stop and go traffic, but not for smooth driving when pushed. Plus, it was impossible to heel-toe, as the pedals were spread too far apart.

The Corolla was the least fun to drive. The transmission has a nice short pattern as well, but it felt far too notchy to be quick or smooth. Clutch effort was similar to the Mitsubishi. But the worst part was the steering. It was incredibly over-boosted and lacked zero communication between the driver and the front wheels.

An Insider’s View

Each company created a different atmosphere in these cars. The best one is, of course, the Toyota. Every piece inside this Corolla felt and looked rich. The buttons were clearly labeled and uncluttered, the HVAC controls were large and the gauges were simple to use. Everything was in easy reach. Plus the Corolla had the most storage compartments of the other two, with its two glove boxes being the main attraction.

The Mitsubishi and the Mazda were close behind the Toyota’s, but were not nearly as screwed together as the Toyota. The Lancer has a similar easy-to-use layout, but was rather bland and had that economy-look and feel throughout. I thought I was going to break the seat height lever. The twin hoods surrounding the tachometer and speedometer made reading the cool and informative information screen stuck in the middle difficult to read.

In the Mazda, the interior was more of a conversation piece, with more style and pizazz than the others, but needed a few seconds to learn where all the buttons were located. Plus, the triple-humped gauge cluster made looking at the gauges difficult, although looked cool in red and blue when the headlights were turned on.

The roomiest car was the Mitsubishi, followed by the Toyota and the Mazda. The GTS had plenty of rear leg and headroom for the taller statue. The XRS was nipping at the Lancer’s heels with a similar amount of room, but felt narrower and would be a tight squeeze with three across. The Mazda was down on room, with tall passengers having to ask front seat passengers to scoot up a few inches for more room. However, headroom is much more prevalent here.

The driving position, though, goes to the Mazda. Behind the wheel of this car, everything was placed perfectly. The seat could be adjusted every way possible, and with the only telescoping wheel in the group, it offered tall people like me more flexibility. Pedal position was perfect in this car, with enough space where you won’t bump the gas when pressing the brakes, but can be heel-toed perfectly. The shifter falls right into place, as does reaching for the HVAC controls.

The Toyota was almost as good, but you sat too high, the wheel sits too low, and the pedals are too close together. It just felt overly snug for a car that shouldn’t have been. However, reaching all controls on the center stack was easy as was rowing the transmission.

Again, the Lancer falls to the back of the pack. While huge on the inside, you still sit too high like the Toyota, but the stretch to reach the radio controls was too much as was the need to reach far to the right to reach fifth gear.

How Much Is This Going to Cost?

These three cars driven were all similarly equipped and priced. The Mazda was the cheapest, at $20,325, and had the six-disk CD changer, sunroof and a spoiler. Just a few dollars away was the Lancer GTS at $20,540. This GTS came with the “Sun & Sound” package, which includes a sunroof and a fantastic Rockford Fosgate stereo. The pricier Toyota came in at $21,457 and came with a sunroof, six-disk changer, and a few other touches not worth mentioning.

Verdict

Although down on overall power and interior room, the Mazda3 overcomes those deficits by giving the driver the better looking interior, the more comfortable driving position and the superior driving experience, it’s hard to pass up on this car. Yes, the Toyota is better screwed together and the Mitsubishi has the more aggressive looks and huge interior, but when you feel that connection between driver and vehicle like you do in the Mazda, it’s hard to not want that every day of ownership.

Let dealers compete for your business and have the upper hand in negotiations before going into the dealership. Find the Lowest Price on Your New Car at CarWoo Today!

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Mitsubishi showcased the new 2009 Galant, Eclipse, and Eclipse Spyder today at the Chicago Auto Show. The 2009 Galant will come in 4 different trims; The top-of-the-line Ralliart with a 3.8L MIVEC V6 and 18″ wheels, the V6 Sport with 17″ wheels and a 3.8L V6 (not the MIVEC,) and the ES and Sport models, which has a 2.4L 4-cylinder. All models will come standard with Sportronic transmissions, 4-speed for the 4-cylinder models and 5-speed for the V6.

The 2009 Eclipse received a pretty serious facelift, with a lower and wider stance, a jet-fighter-inspired grille, and new xenon headlights. I personally don’t like the redesign, but to each his own. I mean, just look at it, it’s stub-nosed and has the headlight of a Jaguar instead of the sleek, high-tech headlights of the current generation:

Anyway, the new Eclipse upped the power slightly to 265 horsepower for the 3.8L MIVEC V6, has traction control, and has available transmissions of either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed Sportronic.

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Mazda didn’t do much at this years show, other than showing off the Ryuga Concept at their display.

The Ryuga is really cool looking in person, but it’s really hard to see it’s nice curves in photos. The Ryuga is simply a design concept, meant to show you the direction Mazda is facing in the design of its new vehicles. The Ryuga shows this well with its curvy, nature-inspired lines.

Keep reading for more cars.

Pontiac‘s big unveiling showed us the brand new G8, which replaces the long-running Grand Prix.

Created by GM’s Holden division, the G8 will be available in either a base model, or GT. The base G8 will be available with a 261 horsepower 3.6 liter V6 engine with a 5-speed automatic, and the GT upgrades that to a 362 hp 6.0 liter V8, featuring a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual, along with Active Fuel Management as standard. The G8 is expected to be in showrooms in early 2008.

Lamborghini had a simple display with their Murcielago LP640 Roadster in the center, in my favorite color for the car.

The Murcielago LP640 ups the already fantastic base Murci by giving it 640 horsepower via a 6.5 liter V12, giving it a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds, and a top speed of 211 mph. At the Lamborghini display, there were also two Gallardos, one on each side of the Murcielago.

VW is bringing back the R32, last sold in 2004. This is big news for a lot of people, the R32 has a huge enthusiast following.

Built from the Rabbit/GTI, there will only be 5000 of the R32s available in the States for 2008, so you better hurry up and order one at 5000r32.com before they’re all gone.

Mitsubishi debuted the all-new 2008 Lancer, and the sexy Prototype X, which shares the same platform as the Lancer.

The Lancer is powered by a 2.0 liter 152 horsepower engine, available in either a 5-speed stick, or CVT transmission. The Prototype X runs on a turbocharged version of that same engine. The Prototype X is nice, but I’d still rather have the 3000GT VR-4 back

Honda showed us the redesigned Accord Coupe Concept. It has to be one of the best improvements on a passenger car I’ve seen in a long time.

This will mark the eighth generation of the Accord, and they couldn’t have went a better direction. Of course this is only a concept, and chances are they’re going to change it quite a bit before production. The next Accord will have a more powerful V6, and will hopefully keep some of the concepts muscular lines.

Ford announced that it’s renaming the Five Hundred sedan and the Freestyle crossover. The Five Hundred will now be called the Taurus, and the Freestyle will be the Taurus X. The decision was made because the Taurus name is already well-known, and it would take a long time to develop the old names. Not very original, but it is a “Bold Move.” They’re also bringing back the Mercury Sable. Why can’t Mitsubishi bring back the 3000GT? Ford also skimped out and didn’t show us the Giugiaro Mustang Concept that I’ve been so excited about That’s why they don’t get a picture.

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