2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback on sale in U.S. this summer

Mitsubishi finally announced what we've known all along: the five-door Lancer Sportback is coming to the States for the 2010 model year and sales will begin this summer.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback builds on the already competent Lancer sedan, although the overall length is slightly longer to accommodate the new hatch. One-touch auto-folding rear seats split 60:40 to make room for "active lifestyle" parcels and Mitsubishi dropped the rear cargo area floor by three inches to create 52.7 cubic-feet of space when the rear thrones are folded flat.

The Sportback will be available in two trims, beginning in GTS form and equipped with Mitsubishi's 168 hp, 2.4-liter inline four mated to either a five-speed manual or CVT with six "virtual" ratios. More importantly, the Sportback will be offered in Ralliart guise, with the detuned Evolution X's turbocharged 4B11 2.0-liter four putting out 237 hp and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. Power will be doled out to all four wheels through Mitsubishi's All-Wheel Control (AWC) system with Active Center Differential (ACD), and buyers can opt for either the six-speed Twin Clutch-Sportronic Shift transmission (TC-SST) or CVT gearbox, both of which are manipulated by a set of magnesium-alloy paddle shifters.

PRESS RELEASE

Mitsubishi Motors Brings Versatile New Five-Door Sportback To Award-Winning U.S. Lancer Lineup

Mitsubishi Motors North America today confirmed that the versatile all-new five-door Lancer Sportback will arrive in U.S. dealerships this summer for the 2010 model year. The Sportback will meld high performance and progressive design with an extra dose of utility to feed the most active lifestyles. The newest member of the multiple award-winning Lancer family is part of Mitsubishi's refocused efforts to introduce new models designed to meet evolving consumer demands. MSRP will be announced nearer to its summer on-sale date.

"American consumers are increasingly asking for fun, attractive, yet practical cars that complement their active and individual lifestyles," said Dan Kuhnert, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Mitsubishi Motors North America. "The Lancer Sportback answers those calls with a heady mix of performance, aggressive styling and the bonus of greatly increased utility, and will be available in two versions - the economical GTS and high-performance Ralliart. The five-door platform has considerable upside potential in the domestic market."

Mitsubishi designers created a dynamic new shape for the Sportback that is instantly recognizable as a Lancer from the front, with its signature "jet fighter" grille, while being completely fresh from the C-pillar rearward. The key element is a sleekly sloping rear door with integrated "roof wing" that creates a visually distinctive shape while making the Lancer significantly more versatile. The door extends down to the rear bumper to make loading cumbersome objects like surfboards, camping gear and bicycles as easy as possible.

The Sportback's overall length is just slightly longer than the Lancer four-door sedan, yet it gains substantial cargo-carrying flexibility-especially when the 60:40-split rear seats are folded flat. One-touch auto-folding rear seats make the newfound space almost effortless to configure. To add still more volume, the rear cargo-area floor of the GTS version can be cleverly lowered three inches, yielding 52.7 cubic ft. maximum cargo space. The roof will also conveniently accommodate a plug-in Thule® Sport Rack for additional flexibility.

The Sportback's basic architecture, technical features and most optional equipment is shared with the Lancer sedan, a winner of several awards, including:

• J.D. Power and Associates' 2008 Navigation Usage and Satisfaction Study, naming the touch-screen interface system an industry-leader and the first non-premium brand to ever capture the award
• NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
• IIHS Top Safety Pick
• CNET Editors' Choice (Lancer Evolution)
• MSN Top-10 New Cars

Sportback GTS models feature Mitsubishi's efficient 2.4-liter engine with 168 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a five-speed manual or six-speed CVT automatic transmission.

The Sportback Ralliart is powered by a 2.0-liter MIVEC turbocharged engine that pumps out 237 horsepower and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. All-Wheel Control (AWC) with Active Center Differential (ACD) is standard, as is the quick-shifting six-speed Twin Clutch-Sportronic® Shift Transmission (TC-SST) that it shares with the Lancer Evolution. Both the CVT and Twin-Clutch transmissions include magnesium-alloy paddle shifters.

Premium interior features like those found on the Lancer sedans are also part of the Sportback's resume. Key components in the Ralliart version include a standard 140-watt CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers or an available 710-watt Rockford-Fosgate Premium Sound System, in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, plus Sirius Satellite Radio. A hard disc-drive navigation system with Mitsubishi's exclusive Diamond Lane Guidance to provide route guidance is optional, as are Recaro sport seats that provide optimal support for the driver and front passenger.

The Lancer Sportback also formed the basis for Mitsubishi's 2009 Dakar Rally effort earlier this year. The Dakar is the most grueling rally race in the world and Mitsubishi vehicles have won the event 12 times since their first attempt in 1983.

As an important test bed for future technology, the Racing Lancers used at the Dakar reflected Mitsubishi's ongoing efforts to minimize the automobile's environmental footprint with such features as clean diesel power, bio-fuel capability and plant-based "green plastic" body components.

Hyundai Super Bowl Commercial

Hyundai revealed commercial that will be seen this weekend during Super Bowl. This one looks like the product of the behind-the-scenes video we saw last week.

Aston Martin Rapide production version images leaked

AutoCar seems to have the jump on everyone, and has revealed today the first “official” images of the production version of the Aston Martin Rapide. The look of the car is a little toned down from the concept car, but still carries a lot of the spirit, and is definitely unmistakably Aston.

The super-sedan will use its DB9 sibling for much of its mechanics. The Rapide will use a stretched version of the DB9’s platform and also its utilize the 6.0-liter V12 making between 480 - 500 hp. AutoCar puts the price at £140,000 (about $200,000 at direct current rates), which if true, puts the Rapide between the DB9 and the DBS in Aston’s lineup.

[Source:AutoCar]

Fiat Jolly old Styles and New Style Panda

Sweety Cars Fiat Jolly Old Styles







Last Style Fiat Jolly Panda



The Panda Jolly is destined to perform an exclusive service of courtesy, transporting all VIP tourists who visit the island of Capri to their destinations. Suspended between sea and sky in the gulf of Naples, Capri has been synonymous for centuries as a classy tourist haven with perfect weather conditions, and is therefore the ideal scene for the new Fiat concept car.

For wheelchair users Kenguru Car

* Environmentally friendly – completely GREEN car delivering long awaited mobility solution for wheelchair users
* Driven directly from a wheelchair – access is via the rear-opening tailgate and steering is by motorbike style handlebar (joystick option will be available in time)
Your own wheelchair is secured within the car by an interlocking device
* The current design allows parking rear end to the pavement for easy access and it is an ideal solution to drivers who only undertake journeys to local shops and services
* Because of its weight the Kenguru is classified as a scooter and therefore only a scooter driver’s licence is required to drive Kenguru



Spesifications:
* Designed by a Hungarian Company specialising in development of aids for the handicapped people since 1915
* Max. speed 30 miles per hour
* Max. distance on a single charge 30 miles
* Weight 290 kilograms without batteries
* Dimensions: Length 2150 mm
* Widths: 1550 mm with mirrors
* Height: 1470 mm

Ford of Europe makes $1bn (£700m) in Europe (EU)

Ford of Europe has reported a pre-tax profit of just over $1bn (£700m) for 2008.

Profits for the first half of the year soared to $1.37bn (£950m) but declined in the second half of the year, with the company recording a $261m (£182m) loss. Its record profit in Europe, up from $997m (approx. £700m) in 2007, is in stark contrast with Ford’s global loss for the fourth quarter of 2008. The company lost $5.9bn (£4.1bn) in the last quarter of 2008, and a total of $14.6bn (£10bn) for the whole year.

Ford now intends to draw on $10bn (£7bn) of additional credit, which is expected to reach the company by Tuesday 2nd February.

'09 Renault Clio uncovered

An amateur spy photographer spied the facelift Clio III free of disguising in a public car park with its bonnet wide open. Spy pictures of the revised Clio date back to September 2007 where the Clio's engineers were testing the newcomer in Spain and Italy.

New headlights, grille, intake, and front bumper assist in giving the car a more aggressive look. Body-coloured side mouldings gives the car a more appealing look, but this is not just an exterior redesign. The revised Clio is also expected to have higher quality materials inside with special attention being paid to the upholstery.

Expect to see the facelifted Renault Clio and the Clio Sport Tourer, at the Geneva motorshow for its debut. UK sales start in June, Clio Sports Tourer in October and Clio Renaultsport in December.

Via Planterenault.com > Renault Clio III Phase 2 spied

Volvo XC60 pricing announced (U.S)

3 weeks ago, it was announced that the 2010 Volvo XC60 will start from under $40,000. Today, Volvo Cars of North America has revealed prices for the compact XC60 SUV. Starting from $37,200, the vehicle comes with a 3.0 litre turbocharged petrol T6 engine with AWD. It delivers 281bhp and maximum torque of 295 lb.-ft.

A host of features are included in the base price, such as a panoramic roof (limited time only), heated front and rear seats, HD Radio technology with USB and AUX ports, Bluetooth connectivity, leather seats and a SIRIUS satellite radio with a six month complimentary subscription.

For extra cash buyers can choose from a host of options that comprise a DVD-based navigation system with an integrated rear-view camera, a lane departure warning system and Volvo's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) amongst others.

Press Release:

Anticipation is growing as Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) today announced pricing of the exciting new 2010 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD small premium utility. With a starting price of just $37,200* for the well-equipped XC60, buyers will have it all: Class-leading safety, stunning design and unrivaled driving dynamics. The new Volvo XC60 goes on sale this March.

The XC60 is Volvo's entry into the growing small premium utility segment. Features such as leather seating surfaces with a power driver's seat, SIRIUS satellite radio (with complimentary six-month subscription), hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio technology with USB and AUX ports are all standard. As a special introductory offer, the unique Panorama moonroof will be offered at no charge. Customers may also opt for Volvo's DVD-based navigation system with integrated back-up camera and two new colors: Lime Grass Green or Terra Bronze.

Continuing Volvo's quest as a pioneer and leader in vehicle safety systems, the XC60 introduces a new world's first -- City Safety -- as standard equipment. City Safety is a driver-support system aimed at preventing or mitigating collisions occurring at speeds of 19 mph or less.

The new Volvo XC60 is the first production expression of Volvo's new design DNA. As a crossover, it artfully blends a dynamic mix of two car styles. Down below, the unmistakable, immensely capable XC pumps up its muscles creating a strong athletic body that is mated with high ground clearance and large wheels. Up top the flowing lines create the sporty charisma of a coupe.

The 3.0 litre turbocharged T6 engine is based on Volvo's naturally aspirated 3.2 litre inline all-aluminum six-cylinder that was introduced in the Volvo S80 in 2008. The T6 delivers 281 horsepower with torque of no less than 295 lb.-ft., combining for best-in-class performance. Maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm and remains on tap throughout the rev range. The result is swift acceleration and impressive passing performance. Volvo's all-wheel-drive system with Instant Traction is standard in the new XC60.

The XC60 is also included in Volvo's recently announced Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance program, which covers the first three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance helps reduce the cost of ownership by providing customers the first four maintenance visits to their Volvo retailer as complimentary. A wide range of services are covered by the program, including oil and filter changes, cabin filter replacement, complete fluid level top-offs and a check of the vehicle's on-board diagnostic system.

VCNA, part of Volvo Car Corporation in Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The 2009 Volvo Cars model lineup includes the award-winning S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan; the flagship S80 luxury sedan; versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); the stunning C70 retractable hardtop convertible and the dynamic C30.

Limousine

White Classical Limousine

Modified Fire Limousine

Perfect inside Limousine

Tesla cancels plans to move to San Jose

Tesla's plans to eventually build a pair of new factories for the Model S and powertrain components in San Jose, CA have run into a ditch. The move was announced last September, just before the (official) collapse of the world's financial markets. However, the plan ran into trouble quickly when Tesla was unable to complete a $100 million round of Series venture funding. Not long after that, the up-start nearly ran out cash before existing investors put in another $40 million. The bulk of the $400 million required to build the two factories and move its headquarters from San Carlos to the new San Jose campus were expected to be provided by low interest loans from the Department of Energy.

However, the DOE loan program favors redevelopment of existing industrial sites and the San Jose location was a greenfield. Tesla is now looking for new locations including former factory sites in both the Silicon Valley area and Southern California. Without the DOE money, it will be extremely difficult for Tesla to build anything new and getting that loan will be increasingly problematic. The program requires applicants to raise matching equity investments of 20-30% of the loan amount, which in this case would amount to $100-150 million. Since Tesla already failed to raise that much last fall, it's not clear that it can happen now.

[Source: BizJournals.com]

Volvo announces 2010 XC60 pricing starting at $37,200

Pricing has been released for the 2010 Volvo XC60 crossover, and the T6 with standard AWD and Volvo's pioneering City Safety low-speed collision protection system will have a base price of $37,200 plus destination. Power is provided by a turbocharged 3.0L T6 engine pumping out a solid 281 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Premium features like leather, power driver's seat, SIRIUS, Bluetooth, and HD Radio with USB and AUX ports are all standard. The Panorama moonroof will even be offered at no charge as part of an introductory offer, although Volvo hasn't said how much it will run after that.

Four different option packages available on the XC60, beginning with the Climate Package for $1,000 which includes heated seats fore and aft, heated windshield washer nozzles, rain sensing wipers, headlamp washers, and an Interior Air Quality System (IAQS) with a humidity sensor. The Technology Package will retail for $2,700 and adds a 650-watt Dynaudio stereo with 12 speakers and Dolby surround sound, plus Volvo's DVD navigation system with real time traffic and a rear park assist camera setup. This being a Volvo, of course there's a safety package as well.

The Collision Avoidance Package adds another $1,695 to the bottom line and includes a big bowl of alphabet soup: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Warning with Auto Brake (CWAB), Distance Alert (DA), Driver Alert Control (DAC), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). That's a lot of tech for such a small package and the availability of these features, although increasingly moving downmarket, can help justify the seemingly very premium base price of the vehicle. You even get free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles as part of Volvo's new program.

PRESS RELEASE

Volvo Announces Pricing of the New 2010 XC60

San Francisco, CA (Jan. 29, 2009) - Anticipation is growing as Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) today announced pricing of the exciting new 2010 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD small premium utility. With a starting price of just $37,200* for the well-equipped XC60, buyers will have it all: Class-leading safety, stunning design and unrivaled driving dynamics. The new Volvo XC60 goes on sale this March.

The XC60 is Volvo's entry into the growing small premium utility segment. Features such as leather seating surfaces with a power driver's seat, SIRIUS satellite radio (with complimentary six-month subscription), hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio technology with USB and AUX ports are all standard. As a special introductory offer, the unique Panorama moonroof will be offered at no charge. Customers may also opt for Volvo's DVD-based navigation system with integrated back-up camera and two new colors: Lime Grass Green or Terra Bronze.

Continuing Volvo's quest as a pioneer and leader in vehicle safety systems, the XC60 introduces a new world's first -- City Safety -- as standard equipment. City Safety is a driver-support system aimed at preventing or mitigating collisions occurring at speeds of 19 mph or less.

The new Volvo XC60 is the first production expression of Volvo's new design DNA. As a crossover, it artfully blends a dynamic mix of two car styles. Down below, the unmistakable, immensely capable XC pumps up its muscles creating a strong athletic body that is mated with high ground clearance and large wheels. Up top the flowing lines create the sporty charisma of a coupe.

The 3.0-liter turbocharged T6 engine is based on Volvo's naturally aspirated 3.2-liter inline all-aluminum six-cylinder that was introduced in the Volvo S80 in 2008. The T6 delivers 281 horsepower with torque of no less than 295 lb.-ft., combining for best-in-class performance. Maximum torque is available from just 1,500 rpm and remains on tap throughout the rev range. The result is swift acceleration and impressive passing performance. Volvo's all-wheel-drive system with Instant Traction is standard in the new XC60.

The XC60 is also included in Volvo's recently announced Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance program, which covers the first three years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first). Complimentary Factory Scheduled Maintenance helps reduce the cost of ownership by providing customers the first four maintenance visits to their Volvo retailer as complimentary. A wide range of services are covered by the program, including oil and filter changes, cabin filter replacement, complete fluid level top-offs and a check of the vehicle's on-board diagnostic system.

VCNA, part of Volvo Car Corporation in Gothenburg, Sweden, provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.

The 2009 Volvo Cars model lineup includes the award-winning S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan; the flagship S80 luxury sedan; versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); the stunning C70 retractable hardtop convertible and the dynamic C30.

2010 Volvo XC60 T6 Pricing

MSRP $37,200

Destination Charge $825

OPTION PACKAGES

Climate Package $1,000

• Heated front seats
• Heated rear seats
• Heated windshield washer nozzles
• Rainsensor windshield wipers
• Headlamp washers
• Interior Air Quality System (IAQS)
• Humidity Sensor

Technology Package $2,700

• Dynaudio® Premium Sound System, Dolby Pro-Logic II® Surround Sound, 650-watt amplifier, 12 Dynaudio® speakers, rear seat headphone jacks, audio controls
• Volvo Navigation System with Real Time Traffic, DVD map data and remote control
• Rear Park Assist Camera

Collision Avoidance Package $1,695

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Collision Warning with Auto Brake (CWAB)
• Distance Alert (DA)
• Driver Alert Control (DAC)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Convenience Package $1,000

• Grocery bag holder
• 12V power outlet in cargo area
• Front and rear park assist
• Power tailgate
• Homelink remote garage door opener

OPTIONS
Black Sapphire Metallic $525
Electric Silver Metallic $675
Maple Red Pearl $525
Barrents Blue $525
Silver Metallic $525
Lime Grass Green Pearl $525
Savile Grey Pearl $525
Terra Bronze Pearl $525
Dual onboard two-stage child booster seats with adaptive seatbelts and power child rear door locks $495
Dual Xenon with Gas Discharge Headlights with Active Bending Light $800
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) $695
Personal Car Communicator (PCC) with Keyless drive $550
Nordic Light Oak inlays $295
Panorama moonroof n/c

*Price does not include destination charges of $825

Ford reports 4th quarter net loss of $5.9 billion

Ford has so far been able to avoid suckling on the teat of the federal government like its cross-town rivals, but after today's announcement of a 2008 fourth-quarter loss of $5.9 billion, serious questions are beginning to arise about how FoMoCo will fair in 2009.

This will be the third consecutive year Ford hasn't posted a profit, with a $2.8 billion loss in the previous year and $620 million drop during the same quarter of 2007. Ford wrapped up 2008 with $13.4 billion in cash reserves, but has announced plans to draw $10.1 billion in available credit to weather what's sure to be a rough 2009. That would bring Ford's liquidity up to $23.5 billion, sans the money already used for January, and the automaker contends that this is enough to meet its goals for the year. However, if Ford continues its fourth-quarter cash burn rate of $1.83 billion a month, there's a distinct possibility that FoMoCo execs might be knocking on Uncle Sam's door before the year comes to a close.

On a more positive note, Ford posted a 2008 pre-tax profit of $1.06 billion in Europe, although the last quarter saw a drop of $330 million. Hit the jump for Ford's full press release.

[Source: Ford]

Moto Gp and Bwin Girls

if you want see bwin girls, video is below page. incredible

Car of The Future

Hot Insignia caught at official Opel event

The Vauxhall/Opel Insignia has recently gone on sale across Europe with a sports variant due this year. Prototypes of the Insignia VXR/OPC have been lapping around Germany heavily disguised but a crafty photographer managed to leaked a pre-production ready model onto the net.

This prototype's model, a saloon rather than a hatchback, shows the vertical front air intakes that were a striking feature of the Opel GTC Concept coupé that previewed the Insignia's design language at the 2007 Geneva motorshow.

Running OPC Prototypes have lapped the Nürburgring in a little over 8 minutes, according to Opel managing director and engineering guru Hans Demant. With its Haldex 4WD and 255/35 R20 tyres, it's said to be very grippy, very stable and very benign in its handling. Wheels have five concave spokes, are painted in dark metallic grey and have polished rims and spoke outlines.

Power is not yet disclosed but the twin-turbo V6 is thought to produce around 320bhp. Expect to see this styling model at the Geneva show in March, with the production version making its debut at the Frankfurt show in September, if not before. A wagon variant is also expected.

Via Evo.co.uk > Vauxhall Insignia VXR

Jeep "WL" captured in U.S

These are the first ever spy photos of the upcoming Jeep Grand Cherokee, undergoing cold-weather testing in the U.S. The newcomer is due sometime next year. Codenamed "WL", the Grand Cherokee will sit on an all-new platform which will be shared with several other vehicles including the next-generation Dodge Durango and the next-generation Mercedes M-Class, unlike the Tailhawk concept which underpinned the Jeep Wrangler. The mule appears to be much curvier (thanks to the Jeep Trailhawk concept which was unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show) all round compared to the outgoing model and looks shorter too. The interior will receive a huge revamp with upright air vents and curved dashboard to make it more European focused.

A long wheelbase '10 G.Cherokee is set to replace the slow-selling Commander SUV.

Chrysler’s new V6 Phoenix engine (reported in the last article) will be available in the Grand Cherokee in 3.3 litre and 3.6 litre displacements. A 4.7 litre V8 and 5.7 litre HEMI are likely as well the GM/Chrysler/BMW hybrid powertrain, used in the shortlived Chrysler Aspen & Dodge Durango Hybrids. The 3.0 CRD, sourced from Mercedes is expected to remain for the European market.

Watch for production of this new Jeep to start at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit in January 2010.

40 years since the Honda Accord arrived (AU)

To celebrate 40 years of the Honda Accord in Australia, Honda has released a limited edition 2.4 litre 4 cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine which produces 178bhp and 222Nm with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Fog lights, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, floor mats, illuminated door sill and 40th Anniversary badging are all included in this special edition.

The Accord has sold over 16 million units since 1976 in 160 countries and remains one of Honda’s most endearing and successful models for more than 30 years.

Press Release:

The limited edition four cylinder Accord showcases Honda’s commitment to producing passenger cars that feature the latest in technology and design quality.

The Accord V6 was recently named Drive’s 2008 Car of the Year and Large Car of the Year.

The original Accord was the first Japanese car to feature air conditioning, a digital clock, power steering, cloth seats, a tachometer, intermittent wipers and an AM/FM radio as standard. During its first year in Australia, the Honda Accord won ‘Wheels Car of the Year’, the first Japanese car to win the coveted award.

The Honda Accord has continued to receive accolades including Drive Car of the Year 2008 for the V6. In fact, the Accord remains the most highly decorated car in Honda’s history.

The limited edition Honda Accord is packed with extra features including fog lights, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, floor mats, illuminated door sill garnishes and 40th Anniversary badging.
Honda Australia’s Senior Director, Mr. Lindsay Smalley, is proud of the Accord’s success in Australia.

“The Accord was one of the first models Honda introduced to Australia 40 years ago and has been a popular choice ever since. The name ‘Accord’ was chosen to symbolise Honda’s efforts to achieve an accord between people, society and motor vehicles through advanced technology.

“The Accord was ahead of its time when the first model was released and it continues to evolve to this day. Last year we launched the 8th generation Accord, offering buyers the choice of either a 2.4 litre four cylinder engine or a powerful 3.5 litre V6 featuring revolutionary Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology that seamlessly switches between six, four and even three cylinders as required,” Mr. Smalley said.

The Accord has sold over 16 million units since 1976 in 160 countries and remains one of Honda’s most endearing and successful models for more than 30 years.

The 40th Anniversary Limited Edition Accord has a 2.4 litre four cylinder i-VTEC engine which produces 133kW and 222Nm with a 5-speed automatic transmission as standard.

Its impressive performance is matched by equally impressive fuel consumption – just 8.8 litres/100km – and very low emissions.

And even more impressive is the price - A$31,440 plus on road costs. For the month of January, customers will also receive free registration and CTP insurance, a 5 year warranty and free 5 year 24hr Premium Roadside Assist.

Renault Megane sedan spied in Sweden

Alongside the Megane GrandTour, Renault engineers are hard at work testing the forthcoming Megane Sports Saloon in Northern Sweden.

Like the regular Megane, the new sedan will be lighter and more fuel efficient than the outgoing model. Both petrol and diesel engines will be taken from the recently launched Megane.

Rivalling the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Jetta, Nissan Tiida, Opel Astra, Chevrolet Cruze and Citroen C-Triomphe, the new Megane sedan is likely to debut at October's Paris motorshow. After this model is launched in early 2010, the coupe-cabriolet and a possible crossover will arrive.

Via WorldCarFans.com > Renault Megane spied winter testing & GlobalMotors.net > 2010 Renault Megane sedan