BYD E6

This sounds like a good call. A mobile phone battery maker in China unveiled three new cars at the Detroit Motor Show – including the world’s first electric MPV, the E6.
Build Your Dream, or BYD, said a 50 per cent recharge will take only 10 minutes and offer enough power to carry the 2,020kg E6 up to 186 miles. The five-seater model’s all-electric powertrain will deliver 286bhp and 550Nm of torque. BYD also revealed details of a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid hatch, and a supermini called the FO. All three models could go on UK sale by 2011.

Electric 2+2 on show

Mitsubishi is set to reveal a new version of its electric i MiEV Sport concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
The vehicle will preview the sporty 2+2 due in 2011. As with the ‘i’ supermini, it will be built at Mitsubishi’s expanded electric car factory in Japan, set to open in 2011. It can produce 20,000 models per year.
Mitsubishi has shown a 2+2 i MiEV Sport concept before, at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Salon. That had four-wheel drive and 430Nm of torque, and did 124 miles on a charge. The second-generation version is likely to get a new look and production-ready technologies including lithium-ion batteries sourced from Mitsubishi’s joint venture with electronics giant GS Yuasa.

New Boxster gets new looks and ultra cool interior!

Porsche has only just unveiled the facelifted Boxster, but that hasn't stopped its engineering team getting work developing the all-new car, due in late 2011.Auto Express' exclusive shots of the newcomer also reveal that the interior shares much in common with the larger Panamera four-seater, with the enlarged rev-counter sitting pride of place within Porsche’s trademark five-pod instrument binnacle. The dash is dominated by new sweeping air vents too.The new Boxster will be wider than the outgoing model. The increased track will help high-speed stability, whilst also giving passengers increased room.Forthcoming pedestrian impact regulations also mean that front of the Boxster will be quite different to today’s car. The legislation also necessitates moving the wing-mirrors to the doors, which will also be a feature of the new 911, due around the same time as the Boxster.The flipside of this is that aerodynamics can be improved, and a new active rear spoiler will further enhance the car’s ability to cut through the air.Porsche will also concentrate on reducing the car’s weight, and, while the revised direct injection six-cylinder petrol engines will remain virtually unchanged, Porsche will introduce an entry-level turbocharged VW-sourced four-cylinder unit for the first time. Six-speed manual and PDK double clutch gearboxes will be available too.The current Boxster and Cayman are built by Valmet in Finland, but sources claim that Porsche has negotiated a more competitive deal with Austria’s Magna Steyr, that will take over the car’s construction.

Aston Martin One-77

Aston Martin's £1.2m supercar is clearly still camera shy...but that didn't stop the firm giving Paris show visitors a surprise sneak preview of the model!
The One-77 remained partially under wraps, but still bared a revealing chunk of its luxurious carbon fibre body. A section of the car's nose, its huge six-spoke alloys, deep side air intakes, and sculpted rear were also visible.
Designed as a piece of 'working art', the car combines Aston's latest technology and heritage styling. As the name suggests, only 77 will be made, but according to Aston chief Ulrich Bez there has already been serious interest from around 100 potential customers - despite the phenomenal pricetag!
At the same time, Aston has officially unveiled a second teaser shot of the bespoke supercar.Set to be powered by a 7.3-litre V12 engine with an output ‘expected to top 700bhp’, the One-77 will boast a top speed of over 200mph and feature ‘active aerodynamic technology’. Presumably that refers to a retractable rear spoiler, which would explain the cut out section seen clearly beneath the rear glass in this new image. Underpinned by a new carbon fibre monocoque, the two-seater retains the classic Aston Martin look, although it adds aggressive side scoops and detailing, such as the roof creases and bonnet vents, to set it apart. Weight is expected to hover around the 1,500kg mark, and the car will get adjustable suspension and carbon ceramic brakes. All 77 One-77 customers will be able to specify either a right or left-hand-drive car, with the opportunity to work with Aston Martin in creating a completely bespoke vehicle – with the entire interior and chassis set-up open to customisation.

Mitsubishi Colt

The Colt is facing up to a bright future! These are the first pictures of the facelifted city car, which received its global unveil at the Paris Motor Show.
But it doesn’t just get a stylish new look inspired by the Evo X performance saloon – Mitsubishi also used the show to reveal that its ‘Cleartec’ eco-friendly strategy will debut on the Colt. The 74bhp 1.1-litre model gets stop-start technology for the first time. This reduces CO2 emissions by 10 per cent to 116g/km, making the supermini one of the cleanest models in the class. It goes on sale this month, while next year the Colt will be available in Flexfuel form, which means it will be capable of running on bioethanol. The firm has also revised the hot Colt Ralliart version, which has stiffer suspension for a more involving driving experience. It goes on sale in January.
Meanwhile, the company has confirmed it will be bringing around 200 examples of its i-MiEV electric car to the UK next year – making Mitsubishi the first manufacturer to sell a supermini that runs purely on electric power. It is waiting to see if there is any Government assistance for the clean, green plug-in machine, but the firm anticipates a price tag of between £15,000 and £20,000.

New Mazda 3

It's Mazda's new 3 for all! The Japanese firm has confirmed that a four-door saloon version of the all-new Mazda 3 will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show on 19th November 2008.While the UK will have to wait until next year to see the five door hatchback that's tipped to be the top seller here, this brand new machine does offer a strong flavour of what buyers should expect.The all-new model is the latest addition to Mazda’s reinvented product line up and follows the introduction of the all‑new Mazda 2 and all-new Mazda 6 last year.At the front, sleek headlights are mixed with deep air intakes and a low splitter. In profile, there’s the trademark angled C-pillar, but it’s joined by a waistline that kicks up over the back door. Together with a chunky rear bumper and a steeply angled tailgate, this creates an aggressive look. Inside, the Mazda has new, improved materials and a dashboard that copies its counterpart in the 6, complete with steering wheel-mounted controls for the stereo and ventilation systems.The next 3 will use the longer platform from the forthcoming third-generation Focus, due in 2010, and so will offer more interior space than before. Other benefits include increased refinement and excellent handling.Drivers anticipate a wide range of engines to be made available, including a new stop and start model, which Auto Express drove in prototype form last week.

Nissan 370Z

Due to be revealed at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, the car will replace the Japanese firm’s popular 350Z later next year.
Though the car’s official specification has yet to be revealed Auto Express can confirm that the newcomer will offer a welcome performance boost thanks to its 3.7-litre V6 engine.
With around 325bhp on tap – up from 309bp – the car will also offer a semi automatic gearbox and improved rear-wheel-drive chassis.
Prices are expected to rise slightly, meaning entry level models will be available from around £28,500.

Mercedes CLK replacement

It's the news E-class fans have been waiting for! Mercedes’ forthcoming CLE is ready to hit the road... These exclusive images of the hotly tipped replacement for the CLK show the upcoming car carrying out final tests before it goes on sale next year. It appears the coupe will be almost identical to the concept that inspired it.Subtly decorated in black tape, it’s clear to see under the minimal disguise that the new CLE will have a more angular and sporty design than the car it replaces. Sharp creases down both sides and a more rounded outline help distinguish the coupe further. Despite its change in class the exterior will still draw many influences from the current C-class range, including the large sports-styled front grille and CLS rear lights.Inside, the dash will offer a less complex setup than the current car and the sat-nav has been moved to a higher position offering better visibility while creating more space. The new coupe will also be a proper 2+2 coupe with enough room in the back for passengers.Under the bonnet the 3-Series and A5 rival is expected to carry a similar range of engines to the current C-class including a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder BlueTec diesel unit delivering 201bhp tipped to be a top-seller.The changes are part of Mercedes‘ plan to help return the E-class to its once legendary status. Expect a convertible version of the new CLE to follow in 2010 a year after the coupe.

BMW 6-Series spied

The lid has been lifted on BMW’s next 6-Series. And Auto Express has exclusive pictures of the German car makers 2010/2011 soft-top. But what’s more surprising is the coupe is yet to break cover. Wearing a confusing disguise, the pictures show the new generation 6-Series convertible will continue to wear the more traditional canvas roof - not the folding hard-top used on rivals like the Mercedes SL and BMW's own 3-Series.Following several facelifts the next 6-Series is rumoured to be a brand new version, seven years after the current model made its debut. The rear looks more conventional now, but otherwise changes are subtle with refinement and build quality taking priority in the next six. The engine line-up is unlikely to change much from the current cabrio either.Spotted here in the early stages of testing, the cabrio version of the new 6-Series isn’t expected to go on sale until late 2010, early 2011 and unusually the hard-top will follow after.

BMW stunner axed

The credit crunch has claimed another victim – BMW’s striking CS Concept. Plans to produce the sensational sports saloon have been axed as it’s not financially viable. The luxurious four-door grand tourer was first seen at last year’s Shanghai Motor Show, and was destined to go head-to-head with the forthcoming Aston Rapide, Porsche Pan­amera and Lamborghini Estoque super-saloons. Its radical styling hinted at the trend of future BMW designs, and received a warm response from the public. But the firm released the news shortly after third-quarter profits were announced. Fortunately for BMW fans, the other cars earmarked for production – such as the X1 SUV, 7-Series Active Hybrid, X6 Active Hybrid and MINI Crossover – are still going ahead as planned.

MINI at L.A.

The MINI E’s dramatic entrance on the LA show stands certainly didn’t come as a shock. But that didn’t stop Auto Express from getting a ringside seat to see the all-electric plug-in supermini unveiled in the metal for the first time.
And the German maker certainly picked the perfect place to launch it. With the US responsible for a 30 per cent boost in the brand’s sales, it’s now the firm’s biggest market. California’s strict air pollution regulations also mean it has ambitious plans for a zero-emissions State, making this new car certain to be a big hit.
The manufacturer is already massively over-subscribed for its 12-month trial of 500 MINI Es. Brand boss Dr Wolfgang Armbrecht says it’s received a staggering 10,000 applications so far. Those lucky enough to secure a year-long contract will still have to pay 0 a month for the privilege. But a garage wall box which reduces charge time to just two hours will be fitted for free.
He added: “The trial will help us to identify any problems, and work out what infrastructure is needed to launch this car. We’d like to see charging points not just at home, but also outside restaurants, shopping malls and even offices.”

Mazda 3 hatchback breaks cover

These are the first official pictures of the all-new Mazda3 five-door hatch! A four-door saloon version was unveiled at last week’s LA motor show, but Mazda has chosen next week’s Bologna expo to reveal the more European-orientated version of the 3.Sharing its underpinnings with the Ford Focus hatch, it promises to be just a sharp to drive as it looks. In fact we’ve already been behind the wheel of a heavily disguised prototype – read about our first impressions of the Mazda3 prototype.Under the bonnet the Mazda will feature the same 2.2-litre diesel that recently debuted on the Mazda 6 – available in a range of tunes up to 180bhp – as well as a range of direct-injection petrol units.

MINI E set to spawn BMW electric family

Auto Express has learned that the new all-electric MINI E – is destined to play a huge role in owner BMW’s future zero-emissions range.
The car forms the basis for a new lithium-ion battery-powered BMW, due in 2010. Technical feedback will be collected from the 450 US customers who will lease the MINI E. This will help bosses plan the perfect electric family model, which will be more practical.
A BMW spokesperson told us: “As the rear seats and cargo carrying space are lost [because of the battery pack], the MINI is not a candidate for mass production.” However, its drivetrain is likely to appear in the 5 or 7-Series, as the lithium-ion batteries’ weight would be less noticeable and comfort more easily maintained. The system would then be applied to the 3-Series and smaller SUVs such as the X1 and X3.

Marangoni M430

The MiTo is getting mightier! This wild two-tone version of Alfa Romeo's new supermini made its debut at the Essen Motor Show – and it's the closest thing yet to the forthcoming GTA hot hatch. Modified by Italian tyre maker Marangoni, the MiTo M430 features a striking white and red paintjob, red tyres and a dramatic rear diffuser. However, perhaps the most outrageous details are the Lamborghini-style scissor opening doors.Inside, it's not for the shy or retiring either. This MiTo now sports some special seats with red stitching and a host of Swarovski crystals too. But the M430 isn’t all show – the 1.4-litre turbocharged engine produces 220bhp, which should be enough for 0-60mph in less than seven seconds. Its suspension has been lowered and stiffened to cope with the extra performance. While the M430 is just a one-off, Alfa Romeo has confirmed it is planning a flagship GTA, which will be powered by a new direct-injection, turbocharged 1750cc petrol engine producing 230bhp. It should go on sale in late 2009. In the meantime, we'll be driving the Marangoni M430 early in the New Year, ahead of its UK debut at the Autosport International show at the Birmingham NEC in January.

Toyota at Bologna

Size certainly doesn’t matter to Toyota. Its show stand was packed with small additions to the range, including the tiny iQ, sporting an all new range-topping, two-toned leather interior. Other new changes included a facelifted Aygo Yaris and RAV4. The Aygo boasts a fresh front bumper, and chrome trimmed rings inside the rear lamps. Inside, the car now gets an iPod docking station, and its 1.0-litre VVT-I engine has improved economy – down 2mpg to 108g/km. It goes on sale in March, with prices starting at 9,050 euros, rising to 11,250 euros.The Yaris also gets revised lamps, and trim inside. Significantly, a new 100ps 1.3-litre petrol engine also comes with stop-start technology, which reduces emissions by 21g/km, to 115g/km. That’s around 10 per cent better than its predecessor. Prices start at 11,050 euros for the 1.0-litre VVT-I in three-door guise, with the range-topping 5-door diesel costs 15,000 euros. It goes on sale in February.The RAV4 also sports a few new features, including revised lamps, wheel arches and a fresh face. The indicator lights have also moved to the wing mirrors. The range-topper gets a sportier steering wheel with a square bottom. Engines include the new 2.2-litre D-4D with CO2 emissions of 160g/km. When the car goes on sale in the Spring, prices will start at 26,350 euros, rising to 35,150 for the range topper.The real show stopper, however, was the firm’s futuristic Fine-T hybrid concept. Sporting innovative features, such as its double-length roof-hinged door, swivel seats, an extra spacious cabin and iQ styling the car is far from production ready. But other hybrid news at the stand sounded more realistic. Sources let slip that a seven-seat Prius was on the way. The petrol-electric hybrid will be powered by a lithium ion battery. It’s likely to hit showrooms in 2012.

Nissan GT-R V-Spec confirmed

The Nismo 370Z isn't the only new Nissan that's hotting up! Auto Express spies have also learned that a stunning new GT-R is also being readied fort launch that should prove once and for all that the Japanese firm has joined the elite supercar club!
The flagship V-Spec model will be revealed early in the new year - possibly at the Chicago Motor Show. With an extra 5bhp, its tuned engine will develop a breathtaking 478bhp, while liberal use of carbon fibre drops the kerbweight to 1,650kg.
It will get carbon ceramic brakes, 20-inch alloys, Bilstein electronic dampers and super-sticky Dunlop tyres. The GT-R V-Spec is set to have a price tag of around £80,000.

Honda cancel NSX supercar

It’s another shock announcement from Honda, and a massive blow for performance car fans everywhere. Only two weeks after dramatically pulling the plug on its Formula one team, the Japanese car maker has revealed its hotly-anticipated NSX supercar has been canned.
Honda claims the 560bhp V10 NSX, which was due to go on sale in 2010, was still in the development stage, despite posting a series of hot lap times around the Nurburgring.The economic crisis has been blamed for the move, but Honda hasn’t entirely ruled out the NSX programme resuming in a few years time, once the firm’s financial situation improves.

R8, S4 name price

What a week for Audi! While images of its forthcoming A7 were surfacing, the company released prices for its new V10-engined R8 and the S4.
If you want to get hold of the supercar, start saving now – as the all-new 528bhp 5.2-litre V10 version costs £99,575 in manual form, and £104,665 with the S tronic sequential semi-auto box. That’s £22,170 more than its 4.2-litre V8 brother, but £43,775 less than Audi sister company Lamborghini’s Gallardo LP560-4 – which shares the same engine.
The R8 will cover 0-62mph in 3.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 196mph. It gets Magnetic Ride dampers as standard, as well as luxuries such as a 465-watt Bang & Olufsen stereo and Nappa leather seats.
Audi is taking orders from January, before deliveries start in the spring. Meanwhile, it has also announced prices for the new 3.0-litre 328bhp supercharged S4. The saloon kicks off at £34,255 for the manual and rises to £35,675 for the S tronic. Choose the Avant estate, and you pay £35,570 for the manual and £36,800 for the auto. First deliveries are due in April.

Blast-off for six-wheel thriller

Here’s a supercar with real six appeal. This remarkable machine is the C6W – a six-wheeler that’s designed and built by Italian engineering firm, Covini.
Incredibly, as the company was formed in 1978, the car has been 30 years in the making – but now, it’s finally going into production.
Set to rival established supercars such as Ferrari’s F430 and the Lamborghini Gallardo, the Covini C6W is due to go on sale at the end of next year. Power comes from a 433bhp 4.2-litre V8 engine, sourced from Audi, which drives the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Bosses are predicting a top speed of 185mph.
The C6W takes engineering inspiration from the 1976 Tyrrell P34 Formula One racer, which famously featured two pairs of smaller front wheels, designed to reduce the frontal area of the car and lower its aerodynamic drag. However, that’s not why company founder Ferruccio Covini has employed the dramatic design. As you might expect, with four wheels at the front, Covini claims the C6W delivers better braking ability and more levels of grip than a conventional car. Plus, the layout is better at absorbing frontal impacts and is more resistant to aquaplaning.
The C6W is certainly going to be a rare sight – only six will be built, with each costing well in excess of £200,000.

Make A Date With Maddest MINI

IT’S the MINI of the future – and it doesn’t even have wheels! This futuristic design features on a new 2009 calendar marking 50 years of the British brand. The Past Present Future year guide shows the original and BMW-built cars in several unique guises, including this hint at what the supermini could become. To buy the calendar, which is priced at about £19, simply log on to the mini.com website.

Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss

If you thought the standard SLR was extreme, then take a look at this! Called the SLR Stirling Moss, Mercedes has pulled out all the stops to make sure this is the firm’s wildest road car ever. There’s no roof or windscreen, while under the stretched bonnet lies the same 641bhp supercharged V8 from the outgoing SLR and SLR Roadster.
Designed to evoke memories of Sir Stirlings famous 300SLR, with which he won the Milli Miglia, this car gets retro styling and two-seater speedster layout.
Two air scoops, moulded into the bodywork above the headrests, double up as roll hoops in the event of a crash, while a central bar splits the cabin into two distinct cockpits.
The bodywork is crafted from lightweight carbon fibre and is entirely redesigned from the ‘standard’ SLR. Enormous side vents and the swooping nose give a bullet-like profile, while the SLR’s trademark side-exit quad exhausts give the driver and passenger front row seats to the throaty V8 soundtrack.
The interior is sparse and functional, in keeping with the speedster’s racing car roots, and each machine is fitted with a metal plate around the automatic shift lever engraved with Moss’ signature.
But while the looks are retro, the performance is cutting edge. Using the same 5.4-litre V8 from the SLR, it’s capable of hitting 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 217mph.
To boost the aerodynamics, there’s a flat underbody and large rear diffuser – both for maximum downforce at the rear axle. There’s also a self-raising airbrake positioned on the boot lip, which adds extra stopping power under heavy braking.
Only 75 cars will be made between June and December 2009, starting as soon as the final SLR roadster has roared off the production line. Costing a phenomenal £591,000 each, the exclusive SLR Stirling Moss will only be made available to hand-picked clients who have shown loyalty to the SLR brand.

Green Suzuki Splashes down

SUZUKI is hoping to make a Splash with eco-minded drivers, with the release of one of its greenest models to date. A new entry-level version of the Splash GLS city car will be powered by a petrol-sipping 68bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine. Low emissions of 120g/km mean it will attract an annual road tax bill of only £35, plus it promises to return frugal fuel economy of 56mpg on the combined cycle, despite having air-con and heated mirrors as standard.The interior will feature a three-spoke leather steering wheel with audio controls and an MP3 player connection, as well as six airbags and other safety measures including ABS, EBD and ESP. When the GLS 1.0 arrives later this month, prices will start at £8,350.

Mercedes CLS Grand Edition

With it's uique front lights, exclusive alloy wheels and Grand Edition badging, Mercedes is hoping that no one misses the most luxurious evolution yet of the popular CLS.
Available from March, the limited edition model offers a four strong petrol and diesel engine range, and gets a bespoke interior.
Highlights include alcantara headlining and leather seats. To finish, the Mercedes also gets high gloss wood trim on the dashboard, steering wheel and gearlever.
Standard equipment includes Mercedes COMAND multimedia system, parking sensors and Grand Edition badged floor mats.
Prices are yet to be announced, but drivers can expect to pay around £50,000 for an entry level CLS280.

Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss

IF you thought the standard SLR was sensational, take a look at this! Called the SLR Stirling Moss, it's been built to pay homage to one of Mercedes’ most successful racing drivers of all time.Mercedes has pulled out all the stops to make sure this is the firm’s wildest road car ever. There’s no roof or windscreen, while under the stretched bonnet lies the same 641bhp supercharged V8 from the outgoing SLR and SLR Roadster. The newcomer is also designed to evoke memories of this historic era of racing, with its retro styling and two-seater speedster layout. Two air scoops, moulded into the bodywork above the headrests, double up as roll hoops in the event of a crash, while a central bar splits the cabin into two distinct cockpits.The bodywork is crafted from lightweight carbon fibre and is entirely redesigned from the ‘standard’ SLR. Enormous side vents and the swooping nose give a bullet-like profile, while the SLR’s trademark side-exit quad exhausts give the driver and passenger front row seats to the throaty V8 soundtrack.The interior is sparse and functional, in keeping with the speedster’s racing car roots, and each model is fitted with a metal plate around the automatic shift lever engraved with Moss’s signature. But while the looks are retro, the performance is cutting-edge. Using the same 5.4-litre V8 from the SLR, it’s capable of hitting 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 217mph. To boost the aerodynamics, there’s a flat underbody and large rear diffuser – both for maximum downforce at the rear axle. There’s also a self-raising airbrake positioned on the boot lip, which adds extra stopping power under heavy braking. Only 75 cars will be made between June and December 2009, starting as soon as the final SLR roadster has roared off the production line. Costing a phenomenal £591,000 each, the exclusive SLR Stirling Moss will only be made available to hand-picked clients who have shown loyalty to the SLR brand.

Mercedes CLK revealed

It’s a blue sky day for Mercedes engineers, working on the development of the firm’s eagerly aniticipated replacement for the CLK.
This model, spied testing on the public road, is the first to reveal how the firm plans a special targa topped model, complete with a full length opening glass sunroof.These are the clearest shots yet of the newcomer, which is expected to make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Tipped to be labelled the ‘CE’ the new Merc will combine the sophistication and comfort of an E-Class saloon with the sporty good-looks of a C-Class coupe.Cosmetic changes are complimented by a mechanical makeover, and the addition of technology such as Mercedes’ body control system ‘adaptive damping’, plus adjustable steering and body control settings.
Rear-wheel drive remains, with engines coming from the C-Class, ranging from the 1.8-litre petrol found in the C180 to the 3.0-litre V6 diesel unit on the 320CDI. Oil burners are expected to dominate sales, and prices should be close to the CLK’s rivals – starting at around £26,000.

Honda's Hottest Jazz

Honda might have pulled out of Formula 1 and shelved its much hyped 600hp V10-powered NSX in the wake of the financial crisis, but the company hasn’t forgotten its sporty roots. One look at the concepts for this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon (Jan 9-11) clear that query up.
In introducing its all-new Sports Modulo customized lineup, Honda Access Ltd, Honda’s tuning arm revealed what could well be the last update of the aging S2000. Employing a catchcry of “Fumon” (pronounced foo-mon) which means ‘wind ripple’, Honda Access designers have created radical aeroparts to reduce the S2000 Sports Modulo’s Cd levels.
While the edgy front spoiler and rear winglets wouldn’t win any good design awards, Honda engineers tell us that these aeroparts improve downforce and stability at speed. This S2000 also features new lightweight alloys and a wine red cloth retractable roof.
Honda second main concept for the TAS is its Sports Modulo Fit RS concept. Based on the popular Fit, this raunchy model gets the same ‘wind ripple effect’ inspired aeroparts (as the S2000), sports wheels and a significantly upgraded interior redesign in three-toned bright orange, black and aluminium. Civic and Accord versions of Honda Access’ upgrades were on show as well.
But to sell cars, you have to appeal to the ladies too. So Honda went to the other end of the design spectrum – away from performance parts – and more towards the dressy. Its Life Style Study concept, based on the 660cc Life minicar incorporates a cutely colored exterior and interior covered in hundreds of Swarovski crystal beads.
It looks like something out of Paris Hilton’s toybox. It even gets a center console boasting shiny crystals as well as pink polka-dot seat covers!

Honda Insight at Detroit

Honda is showing some real insight with its latest model! Billed as the affordable hybrid, Honda aims to undercut the established market leader the Prius, while offering better driving dynamics and outstanding fuel economy. And following the car’s second outing at a major motor show in Detroit, Auto Express has all the details.Based on an extended wheelbase version of the Jazz platform, the Insight offers a practical five-door hatchback layout, but it’s what’s under the skin that’s breaking new ground. Honda’s ‘Integrated Motor Assist’ couples a 88bhp 1.3-litre petrol engine with a 13bhp electric motor for lively performance. But more importantly it’s lighter and cheaper to build that Toyota’s ‘Hybrid Synergy Drive’ – hence prices will start from around £14.995.Throw in an ultra-efficient CVT gearbox, and an Eco Assist mode that uses bar charts and the speedometer backlight to monitor your eco-performance, resulting in a combined fuel-economy of 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions of just 101g/km.And Auto Express was the first to get behind the wheel! Click here to read our full verdict on one of 2009’s most important new cars.

Sporty Swede targets BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 with striking looks

The styling might be daring but we reckon the new S60 is a 'safe' bet for Volvo – that's because it gets an amazing new safety system that prevents accidents!Making its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show, the new BMW 3-Series challenger wowed crowds with its striking new look, which features the latest evolution of Volvo's design language. But it also debuted a new safety system, called Collision Warning With Full Auto Brake.This uses several clever cameras that can tell if the car is about to have a collision – and take avoiding action. The system is so intelligent it can even recognise pedestrians, and alert the driver to any erratic behaviour, such as a child running out from an open car door. Should the driver fail to take action, the car will actually brake automatically.
Which is just as well – with a dramatic coupe-like body, owners will be desperate to avoid reshaping their S60s in any way. At the front, the newcomer gets a bold grille – which features the Volvo badge illuminated in blue on this concept – flanked by neat headlights. Thick shoulderlines give added strength to the S60 while at the rear striking tailights finish the design off with an elegant flourish. Inside, the cabin is luxurious and tastefully styled with lightly coloured leathers, a floating centre console and lots of blond wood. The whole design is very flowing and is said to be inspired by the Swedish coastline – hence the LED headlamps, which create a silhouette of a Viking longboat when switched on.Although they are unlikely to make it to production, the car you see here is pretty much identical to the version that will reach Volvo showrooms in early 2010.

Car polish gets smart

For many drivers, polishing a car is an enjoyable task. But if you don’t have the inclination, there is a way to protect your bodywork with minimal effort.
Paint specialist Gtechniq, based in Kings Langley, Herts, says it can treat your vehicle with its Smart Surface system. Then, all you’ll have to do is wash and dry the panels to get that freshly waxed look. We took a 1992 Saab 900 along to find out if it was the real deal.
First, a car is thoroughly washed, clayed and dried, before the trim is masked and the paint thickness measured.
The company’s P1 pSystem polish can be applied by hand, but a machine polisher will remove small blemishes and produce a deeper and more even colour than before. This product is also designed to remove less paint than traditional cutting compounds.DurableWhen Gtechniq is happy with the finish, C1 Crystal Lacquer is applied. This offers three times the durability and twice the scratch resistance of rival paint sealants, and needs to be buffed off immediately with a microfibre cloth for an even finish.
Where most conventional treatments sit on the surface, C1 chemically bonds to paint, plastic and rubber trim, forming a layer of nanoparticles 1,000 times denser than paint – it’s an extension of the top coat.
Any faded plastic trim can be returned to a factory finish with the company’s C4 cSystem restorer prior to the application of C1, while the glass is coated in G1 rain repellent. As with the C1 formula, these coatings have been developed withlongevity in mind, and the glass treatment is said to bead water for about 30,000 miles.
Prices for treating a new car start at £140, while correcting and protecting an older vehicle costs between £450 and £800. The application is claimed to last 12 months.
The results on our Saab were amazing. Three months after the polish was applied, the paint’s deep gloss and strong water beading remain. The entire two-day process was impressive, and the beauty of treatments like this is you spend less time polishing and more time at the wheel.

McLaren MP4-24 Breaks Cover!

McLaren have become the third F1 manufacturer to unveil their 2009 Formula One challenger, following Ferrari and Toyota.The new car includes small, slick tyres, reduced aerodynamics, and, like the Ferarri and Toyota before it, includes KERS - the new Kinetic Energy Recovery System,World Champion Lewis Hamilton and teammate Heikki Kovalainen will attempt to take McLaren to their first constructors' title since 1998 in the new MP4-24, after finishing second to Ferrari last season.The car won't be raced until the Australian Grand Prix in March, but will run for the first time in testing at Portugal's Algarve Motor Park next week.In a related story, Ron Dennis has announced that he will step down as McLaren team principal, handing over the reigns to his current number two, Martin Whitmarsh. Dennis will stay on as chief executive of the McLaren Group with Whitmarsh taking over the Formula One team from March 1.

Presidential Limo

Cadillac unleashes "The Beast"!

Cadillac is set to unleash its most advanced road car yet... Designed to carry one of the world's most important men, it'e the firm's latest generation presidential limousine.
Though the car's exact technical specification is a closely guarded secret, the car is obviously heavily armoured, capable of withstanding bullet and even rocket attacts. The model is also rumoured to iclude its own air supply, in the event of a gas attack. Special run flat tyres are fitted, and it's guessed that the model weighs an enormous 8 tonnes.
Loosely based on the CTS, the car is both taller and wider than the regular road car, and has seats for four in the rear.
An embroidered presidential seal is positioned in the center of the rear seat back panel, as well as on each rear door trim panel.
Presidential seals are also affixed to the exterior rear doors. The U.S. flag is placed on the right front fender, and the presidential standard is located on the left front fender when the president travels in the vehicle. High-tech LED spotlights illuminate the flags at night.
The machine gets its first public outing at Obama's inauguration, on January 20th.

Mercedes-McLaren SLR Stirling Moss

The SLR is going out with a bang. This is the SLR Stirling Moss – and it's the final model to come from Mercedes' partnership with Formula One team McLaren. The stunning supercar made its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show and pays homage both to one of Mercedes' most successful professional drivers and a racing car that's become synonymous with him – the 300 SLR. Like that car, there’s no roof or windscreen – just simple aero screens above the dashboard. But that's where the similarities end. The bodywork is crafted from lightweight carbon fibre and is entirely redesigned from the standard SLR, with two air scoops above the headrests, which double up as roll hoops, while a central bar splits the cabin into two distinct cockpits.The chassis is enclosed by a flat undertray and large rear diffuser – both for maximum downforce at the rear axle – while a self-raising airbrake pops up under heavy deceleration to aid stability further. The interior is sparse and functional, in keeping with the speedster’s racing car roots, and each model is fitted with a metal plate around the automatic shift lever engraved with Moss’s signature. Under the bonnet is the same 640bhp 5.4-litre supercharged V8 as the standard SLR which punches the Stirling Moss from 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and onto a top speed of 217mph. Just 75 cars will be produced, and they will only be made available to a hand-picked group of clients who are already SLR owners. The price? £591,000.

Pitlane snippets

FORMULA One testing will resume this week in Barcelona without Jenson Button. The Honda ace is recuperating after breaking a couple of ribs in a karting accident, and the team doesn’t want to aggravate the injury. ALEX Zanardi, who lost both his legs in a racing accident more than five years ago, returned to the F1 hot-seat last weekend. The Italian put a specially adapted BMW-Sauber through its paces at Valencia to become the first double amputee to drive an F1 car.

Toyota unveils 2009 F1 Challenger

Toyota has pulled the covers from its all new Formula One car, set to take to the track this year.
Designed and engineered in line with new FIA regulations, it carries Toyota’s hopes of securing its elusive first grand prix victory.
Team president John Howitt said: “After eight years in Formula 1 we have gained a huge amount of knowledge and improved considerably. We are hungry to win and ready to win, there should be no doubt about that. The new regulations pose an extra challenge, but at the same time offer an opportunity. We have everything we need to win, some exceptionally talented people and a huge motivation to succeed, so now it is down to us to actually make it happen.”
The car is new, but there is continuity in Toyota’s driver line-up, with Jarno Trulli, Timo Glock and “third driver” Kamui Kobayashi looking to build on the successes they achieved during 2008.
Trulli, who has driven for the team since 2004, said: “I have now spent longer racing for Toyota in Formula 1 than any other driver and I have seen the huge progress that has been made. It has been a long journey and we have had ups and downs, but we have never given up or lost faith.”