The Lexus LF-CH comes complete with all the marks of a concept vehicle: hybrid drive, expensive lighting, metaloflourescent paint, hand-cut tires, tiny mirrors, and metallic trim everywhere. Underneath all that is a clear look at where the company is heading, hoping to pick up market share in Europe's competitive premium compact marketplace where the Audi A3, BMW 1-Series and Mercedes B-Class currently dominate.

While it's possible the five-door hatch will eventually be offered with a hybrid powertrain, expect an entire suite of four-cylinder diesel and petrol varieties.

Lexus LF-Ch
* Premium compact concept with Lexus Hybrid Drive
* Practical 5-door body, meeting the core needs of customers in the premium compact market
Reinforcing Lexus' position as the only manufacturer to offer a range of hybrid vehicles, the LF-Ch concept will make its world premiere the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.
LF-Ch combines stylish design and full hybrid technology in a practical 5-door compact package to fulfil the needs of the most demanding premium compact segment customers.
Benefiting from an electric-only driving capability, a key feature of Lexus Hybrid Drive, LF-Ch will allow for virtually silent urban driving with zero emissions.

[AutoBlog.it via World Car Fans]

While the concept wears hybrid badges, expect the production vehicle to offer a range of powertrains starting with a plain-old earth-killing inline-four and ending with a full hybrid capable of limited-range and low-speed electric-only operation. We'll get a better idea of which Toyota platform this is based on when we see it live later this month.

The press release follows:

Lexus LF-Ch

* Premium compact concept with Lexus Hybrid Drive
* Practical 5-door body, meeting the core needs of customers in the premium compact market

Reinforcing Lexus' position as the only manufacturer to offer a range of hybrid vehicles, the LF-Ch concept will make its world premiere the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.

LF-Ch combines stylish design and full hybrid technology in a practical 5-door compact package to fulfil the needs of the most demanding premium compact segment customers.

Benefiting from an electric-only driving capability, a key feature of Lexus Hybrid Drive, LF-Ch will allow for virtually silent urban driving with zero emissions.

We're assuming the Crosstour — or Crosshatch, Crosccord or whatever Honda ends up calling it — is out in the desert for some hot weather testing. We're also assuming its hitting the craps table for some ramblin', gamblin' action first. Also, wherever the Crosstour goes, we expect to see its expected platform-mate, the Acura ZDX to not be too far behind. We're assuming we'll have shots of its kissing-cousin later today. [Edmunds Straightline]

DailyMail reports an unnamed Austrian farmer has been using a beloved Golf to transport some beloved calves. He even took steps to modify said hatchback to make it comfortable and accessible for their trips around the countryside.

Quoting the original article, "The unidentified farmer, from Kufstein district in Tyrol, insisted he 'acted out of love for his animals' as they would have been 'too cold' in an open-air trailer." Animal rights activists are raging over the prospect that someone would transport livestock in anything other than a government-approved animal trailer.

To calm the foaming mouths of the fur-happy lunatics, he agreed to "only transport young animals in the car that did not weigh more than 80 kilos." Happy now, Pamela?

[DailyMail]

As we now know, the 80s were the last gasp for lengthened, four-door hatchback versions of Japanese subcompacts; once the minivans and SUVs took charge, the cold-eyed accountants at Toyota knew they wouldn't be making these things in quantity for much longer. In this case we've got a four-door hatch Corolla, fairly well beat up but still getting the groceries.


Chevrolet sold a badge-engineered version of this car, built about 25 miles south of here and given the Nova name. You could also get a Fremont- built Corolla FX in the mid-to-late 80s.

Under the hood, there's a new version of the 1.4-liter base four-banger putting out 100 HP, up from 83 HP on the last edition of the Honda hatch-box. Additionally, the Type S will get Alcantara leather sport seats and a visual look similar to the Type R. Want to bring one over here Honda? We promise we'll still cross-shop the Fit. Pinky swear. We'll have more on this itty-bitty bad boy as soon as Honda officially puts out info on it. For now, all we've got is what we've given ya. Enjoy. [Honda via 4 Wheels News]

Reliability:
Sure, an old Geo may not be as reliable as a brand new Toyota, Chevy or Ford, but it's still more reliable than say, an old MG. Besides, "poor reliability" is just another way of saying "lots of character," and who doesn't want to have a car with a personality?

Safety:
Yes, a rusty Metro make a Brilliance look like a tank, but who's to say you can't install a roll cage and wear a fire-proof suit and a helmet? Besides, old Volvos make for good cheap beaters too, and they built their whole reputation on safety.

Speed (or lack thereof):
We enjoy driving— quickly. There's no way getting around that. But if your goal is saving fuel, do you really care how fast you're going? Besides, you'd be surprised at the perverse kind of enjoyment you get from trying to squeeze the maximum amount of MPG from an otherwise boring commute.

Emissions:
Actually, there's not really any arguing with this point. Fact is, your cheap old beater with a hole rusted in its catalytic converter (or even with an intact one) is going to spew more smog into the air than most any modern car. Though if you're running an old Mercedes diesel on biodiesel, you do get that delicious french fry scent from the tailpipe.

Theft:
So what if the baddies are more likely to jack your little hatchback? Just go out and buy another one for $80. Look at it as spreading the gift of fuel economy to your community.

TWINGO RENAULT SPORT ENTRY LEVEL ACCESS TO THE RENAULT SPORT THRILL, WITH COMPLETE CONTROL

With cars like the R8 Gordini, 5 GT Turbo and Clio Williams, the Renault range has
always featured affordable sporty cars based on mainstream production models.
Twingo Renault Sport is latest car to enjoy that distinction.

Twingo Renault Sport is the result of a double challenge which sought to deliver a
car with genuine sporty credentials at an affordable price. It is a Renault Sport car
through and through, and features the same ingredients that have helped forged
the success of its larger siblings, Clio and Mégane Renault Sport. These include
specific styling, coupled with a chassis, engine and braking system engineered for
a high standard of efficiency and performance that is also suited to everyday use.
Twingo Renault Sport's release stems from a desire to facilitate access to the
Renault Sport experience.

Twingo Renault Sport's compact proportions and sharp styling echo the Twingo
Concept show car which was a star of the 2006 Paris Motor Show. The newcomer's
pedigree and sporty looks are highlighted by its bumpers, wider front and rear
wings, sculpted side skirts and an aerodynamic spoiler. Inside, the cabin has been
tailored for focused sports driving, with Renault Sport front seats for enhanced
lateral support, plus specific aluminium pedals, a leather steering wheel and rev-
counter.
From launch, it will be possible to customise the car to owners' individual tastes
thanks to a range of exterior and interior Renault Sport detailing accessories, as
well as a multimedia connection point.

As suggested by its fully disconnectable ESP, which comes as standard, Twingo
Renault Sport delivers genuine sports enjoyment but is also suited to everyday
use. Its finely balanced handling ensures that it is easy to assimilate and fun to
drive, while ensuring a particularly high standard of safety. As is the case with Clio
and Mégane Renault Sport, two types of chassis ('Sport' and 'Cup') are available.
Both benefit from wider front and rear tracks, while the main components of its
powerful, durable braking system are sourced from higher segment models.

Twingo Renault Sport is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.6 litre 16V engine
developed by Renault Sport Technologies. This powerplant pumps out 133hp
(98kW) at 6,750rpm, with 160Nm of torque at 4,400rpm. The unit’s punchy character
is reinforced by a characteristic engine note which has been the focus of specific
development. The four-into-one exhaust is a technological feat which strikes a
perfect balance between acoustics, performance and low emissions.

Twingo Renault Sport has plenty in its favour to win over a new, young clientele. To
support these customers buying their first hot hatch, Renault Sport is offering a
Renault Sport Experience driving tuition course in certain countries. This service is
unprecedented in the small car segment and offers instruction on safe driving
techniques. The Renault Sport Experience comes in addition to the Enthusiast
Days which permit customers to drive their car in the safe environment of a circuit
in the presence of instructors and service staff.

MOTOR SPORT IN ITS GENES

Renault has always been a major player in the world of motor sport and its record
reveals a long list of successes in many legendary races and competitions. From
the R8 Gordini and Clio Williams to the 5 GT Turbo, the Renault range has always
featured sports versions of mainstream production models. The latest car to enjoy
this distinction is Twingo Renault Sport.

Renault's motor sport heritage…
Ever since its creation in 1898, Renault has been a major player in the world of motor
sport. It won the Paris-Madrid road race as early as 1903, has notched up many
memorable successes in rallying and endurance racing (1978 Le Mans 24 Hours) and
has held several land speed records. It has also marked history with such bold
innovations as the introduction of Formula 1's first turbocharged engine in 1977. Three
decades on, Renault secured back-to-back FIA Formula 1 Constructors' titles in 2005 and
2006.

This commitment, which is anchored in Renault's DNA, is not simply founded on pumping
up power outputs. "We have the privilege of addressing a demanding, connoisseur
clientele, and many of our competitors compete actively," points out Rémi Deconinck, the
General Manager of Renault Sport Technologies. Buyers of Renault Sport vehicles are
genuine specialists and are looking for a car that mirrors their personality.
These exceptional cars are derived from the Clio, Mégane and now Twingo ranges, but
have been through the expert hands of Renault Sport specialists who are accustomed to
exacting world of competition.

In Europe, the Renault Sport brand benefits directly from the reputation of the World
Series by Renault which has attracted almost two million spectators since its creation in
2005. Renault is the only carmaker to run a motor sport programme of this sort.
Conviviality has played a key part in the success of the World Series by Renault which
makes a point of providing entertainment for all the family. A special welcome is also
reserved for customers who attend World Series by Renault meetings with their personal
Renault sports model or classic car.

"In emerging countries where Formula 1 serves as a locomotive for our brand's image and
reputation," continues Rémi Deconinck, "the aim of Renault Sport Technologies is to
showcase the tie that exists between motor sport and the brand's ability to propose high
performance motor cars." Renault Sport Technologies also has a role to play in Renault's
international growth thanks notably to its experience as the world's biggest organiser of
motor races.

…combined with Twingo's own DNA
Twingo Renault Sport is the result the double challenge that consisted in delivering sports
performance and equipment at an affordable price. It is a genuine Renault Sport model
which features the same ingredients that have forged the success of its larger siblings,
Clio and Mégane Renault Sport, namely specific looks and a chassis/engine package that
has been engineered for performance and efficiency. Twingo Renault Sport forms part of
Renault's bid to make the Renault Sport range accessible to an even broader public. It
also marks an extension of the Twingo range with a view to meeting the demands of all its
customers.

RENAULT SPORT EXPERIENCE, FOR SAFE DRIVING ENJOYMENT

Renault Sport Experience driving tuition is available for buyers of Twingo Renault
Sport in certain countries. This service is unprecedented in the small car segment
and provides new owners with instruction on car control to enable them to share
the Renault Sport thrill in total safety. Depending on market, this tuition is included
in Twingo Renault Sport's attractive price.

Renault Sport Experience, socially responsible driver training…
With its sharp looks, sports handling and attractive price, Twingo Renault Sport is sure to
appeal to a new clientele interested in being part of the world of Renault Sport. Our
forecasts predict that nearly half of potential buyers will be less than 30 years of age. To
support these customers buying their first hot hatch, Renault Sport is offering every client
in several European markets a service that is unprecedented in the car's segment: the
Renault Sport Experience. Highly-trained instructors will give Twingo Renault Sport
owners tuition in safe driving techniques, with subjects covered including the position of
hands on the steering wheel, driving lines, braking, grip, management of the ABS and
ESP systems, etc..

…which combines driving enjoyment and safety
Renault Sport Experience driver training has two key priorities:
o Experiencing the Renault Sport thrill
The Renault Sport Experience scheme aims to promote common values by
helping new buyers to:
- enjoy driving a hot hatch on a closed circuit,
- make the most of the car’s handling performance,
- understand and use the electronic driving aids for greater safety.
o Total control
Renault has stood out as the benchmark in the realm of automotive safety for
more than fifty years, and is now acting to improve the on-road behaviour of its
customers. To ensure Twingo Renault Sport owners drive responsibly and
calmly, this training course will teach them about:
- deriving driving enjoyment from aspects other than speed,
- ensuring the safety of themselves, their passengers and other road users,
- the satisfaction to be gained from driving well and responsibly.

Endorsed by Romain Grosjean
The Renault Sport Experience is endorsed by French driver Romain Grosjean who
embodies the values Renault is seeking to promote through this programme, namely
excellent driving standards combined with a responsible attitude. He proves that it is
possible to be young and passionate about sports driving while remaining socially
responsible, both on track and on the road. He has helped design the contents of the
theoretical and practical components of the course, and is the signatory of the completion
certificates awarded to each driver.
Having served his apprenticeship in the Renault Driver Development programme (RDD),
Grosjean, 22, is currently a test driver for the ING Renault F1 Team. He has already won
titles in Formula Renault 1600, Formula Renault 2000 and the F3 Euroseries, and
recently won the GP2 Asia Series. He is ranked among the favourites for the European
GP2 championship.

TWINGO RENAULT SPORT, SPORTY LOOKS DESIGNED FOR PERFORMANCE

Compact proportions and sharp styling echo the Twingo Concept show car which
was a star of the 2006 Paris Motor Show. Twingo’s distinctive looks have been
made even more athletic thanks to the newcomer's specific bumpers, wider front
and rear wings, sculpted side skirts and aerodynamic spoiler which all point to the
car’s sporting pedigree. Inside, the cabin has been tailored for focused sports
driving, with a number of details that are unique to this model: Renault Sport seats
for enhanced lateral support, aluminium pedals, a leather steering wheel and a
specific rev counter. A customisation programme is also available, allowing buyers
to adapt their new car to their personal taste and needs. Exterior and interior
Renault Sport detailing is available, along with a multimedia connection point.

Power and poise
Twingo Renault Sport’s compact proportions and sharp styling embody its fun-to-drive,
sporty nature, and are reminiscent of the Twingo Concept show car. Additional cooling for
the 133hp naturally-aspirated 1.6 litre 16V engine is provided by a wide Renault Sport air-
intake grille in the front bumper. The sculpted side sills, coupled with wider front and rear
wings, underline Twingo Renault Sport’s assertive pedigree and character. At the rear,
the chromed exhaust tail pipe emerges through a two-tone bumper. The foglamp
surrounds, exterior mirror housings, 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels and aerodynamic
spoiler all sport the same shade of anthracite grey. Renault Sport badging can be added
to the flanks or rear bumper. Like the chequered flag graphics, these designs conjure up
the dynamic world of motor sport.
Twingo Renault Sport is fitted with generously-proportioned tyres (195/45 R16 or 195/40
R17) mounted on aluminium alloy wheels. They house substantial brake discs and
callipers which provide powerful, durable braking performance. Twingo Renault Sport also
introduces a new colour to the Renault Sport range, with the new Altica Grey once again
echoing Twingo Concept. Three other metallic shades are available (Nacré Black;
Extrême Blue and Platine Grey), in addition to the non-metallic Vif Red.

Sports styling inside
The ergonomic driving position conjures up the world of racing with features that are
centred firmly on the driver: aluminium pedals, and a four-spoke perforated leather
steering wheel with dark charcoal stitching. For added comfort, it gives the driver's hands
perfect grip in the 'ten-to-two' position. The rev-counter is located directly behind the
steering wheel, echoing racing car design: employing a specific typeface, the numbers
grow in size as the needle approaches the red line at 7,000rpm. Just like in the cockpit of
the ING Renault F1 Team’s R28 Formula 1 car, the rev-counter features a gear change
alert to warn the driver as the engine approaches maximum revs.
The dark charcoal interior trim neatly expresses sporting performance. Offering additional
lateral support and outstanding comfort, the specific Renault Sport seats allow the driver
to feel at one with the car. The colour of the Blood Orange safety belts matches the
contrasting stitching of the upholstery.
As with all cars developed by Renault Sport Technologies, the Renault Sport logo can be
found inside the cabin, on the rev-counter, door sills and front seats. Outside, the badge
features on the rear hatch and engine air filter.

A hot hatch for everybody’s taste
From launch, Twingo Renault Sport will be available with a wide range of options to cover
the different tastes of every customer. Renault Sport graphics can be applied to the sides,
rear bumper and can even be carried over to the ignition key housing. Several graphics
are available, namely 'Grey Shadows', 'Chess' and 'Renault Sport Chequers'. Like the rest
of the Twingo range, the newcomer places significant emphasis on communications
technologies and is available with hands-free Bluetooth telephone controls, a portable
Carminat navigation system and an audio connection box which permits personal MP3 or
iPod® players to connected in total safety.

Available options:
o Front and rear curtain airbags
o Automatic climate control
o Cup Pack (depending on market)
Cup chassis + 17-inch Dark Anthracite alloy wheels + removable, folding rear bench seat
o Metallic paint
o Cruise control with speed limiter
o Panoramic opening sunroof

Available accessories:
Exterior customization
o 'Grey Shadows' graphics pack
Three shades of grey, for either side of the car, plus rear bumper
o 'Renault Sport Chequers' graphics pack
Renault Sport Chequers graphics available in: White, Anthracite Grey, Cool Grey and Black,
on the two rear pillars
o 'Chess' graphics pack
Renault Sport graphics inspired by Twingo Concept

Interior detailing
o 'Power Pads' pedal covers
in brushed aluminium, inspired by Twingo Concept
o Renault Sport-badged gearlever kit
Chrome satin finish zamac gear lever knob, leather and alcantara bellows with Blood
Orange stitching and matching base
o Renault Sport-badged handbrake
Chrome satin finish zamac
o Set of four Renault Sport Chequers rubber floor mats
With brushed aluminium Renault Sport plaque on the driver's side mat
Two versions: white chequers on black, or black chequers on white
o Set of four Renault Sport Chequers fabric floor mats
With brushed aluminium Renault Sport plaque on the driver's side mat
Two versions: white chequers on black, or black chequers on white

Connectivity and multimedia
o Hands-free Bluetooth® telephone controls
o Audio Connection Box
o Subwoofer
Enhances the bass performance of the original audio system. Fits in the boot and can be
removed swiftly to free up space when necessary.
o Carminat Nomade
Portable Dayton PM 2050 navigation system (Siemens VDO) with 3.5-inch colour screen
and European maps, with power support
o Carminat Nomade + Bluetooth
Portable Dayton PM 2050 navigation system (Siemens VDO) with 4.3-inch colour screen
and European maps, plus integrated power support

COMBINING SPORTS PERFORMANCE WITH EVERYDAY USE

Twingo Renault Sport is the response of Renault Sport Technologies' experts to the
double challenge of delivering sports performance and equipment that is suitable
for everyday use. The fully disconnectable ESP, which comes as standard, forms
part of this brief. Twingo Renault Sport's balanced sports handling ensures that the
new car is easy and fun to drive, in addition to combining performance with a high
standard of safety. The two Renault Sport chassis (Sport and Cup) benefit from
wider front and rear tracks, while the powerful, durable braking system is sourced
from higher segment models. In day to day use, passengers will appreciate the
roomy, modular cabin and generous boot space that are hallmarks of Twingo, the
A-segment benchmark in these domains. Twingo Renault Sport is also available
with independent sliding rear seats.

Pleasure and safety in day to day use
Twingo Renault Sport delivers genuine driving enjoyment in total safety. Its responsive,
nicely balanced chassis benefits from the existing, excellent suspension and running gear
already seen on New Twingo and Clio II Renault Sport. Its set-up offers precise sports
handling and ESP is standard to enable the driver to stay in control in situations where
grip is lost. This disconnectable function and the absence of emergency brake assist
underpin Twingo Renault Sport's sporty credentials, while its electric power steering has
been calibrated to ensure precise, instantaneous response to the driver's instructions via
the steering wheel.

A composed, balanced platform
Like Clio and Mégane Renault Sport, the newcomer offers two chassis options: 'Sport'
and 'Cup'. In both cases, track has been widened by 60mm at the front and by 59mm at
the rear compared with Twingo GT. These modifications improve stability and lateral grip.
The front suspension is a pseudo-MacPherson type arrangement, with aluminium lower
arms. The adoption of pushrods on the dampers improves the performance of the anti-roll
bar for even better body control.
Twingo Renault Sport's rear suspension is based on an H-type programmed deflection
rear beam. To improve ride and comfort, the dampers are mounted vertically and coupled
with variable rate coil springs. The 24mm diameter rear anti-roll bar (compared with
22.5mm on Twingo GT) brings a stiffness gain of 25%. The anti-roll front/rear
performance split has been calibrated to improve rear-end agility for extra enjoyment and
also enhance the overall sports performance of the chassis.

Sport chassis: nimble and responsive
The Sport chassis has been engineered for the best and safest balance between driving
enjoyment and performance. Compared with Twingo GT, it features a lower centre of
gravity thanks to a 10mm lower ride-height. Stiffer springs (plus 30 per cent compared
with Twingo GT) and uprated dampers (also plus 30 per cent) contribute to the car’s
sporty handling, while firmer bushing has enhanced directional precision front and rear.
The Twingo Renault Sport 'Sport' chassis is also fitted with generously-proportioned tyres
(195/45 R16).

The performance-focused Cup chassis
Twingo Renault Sport is also available with a Cup chassis for incisive handling and
maximum driving enjoyment. In this configuration, Twingo Renault Sport offers handling to
satisfy the demands of any enthusiast. This chassis offers optimum body control and its
natural home is on the track, where flat cornering and improved corner speed
demonstrate its effectiveness.
The Cup chassis rides another 4mm lower than the standard setting, and its lower centre
of gravity improves in-corner performance thanks to reduced weight transfer. Tuned
damper settings and higher spring rates (10 per cent stiffer front and rear) bring greater
performance through better body control.
The Cup chassis-based Twingo Renault Sport stands out by its Dark Metal Grey 17-inch
aluminium alloy wheels equipped with 195/40 R17 tyres engineered for efficiency.

Powerful, durable stopping power
Twingo Renault Sport benefits from Renault Sport's braking expertise to deliver powerful,
durable stopping power combined with a reassuringly progressive brake pedal feel.
Twingo Renault Sport is equipped with the same discs as Mégane II (280mm diameter
vented fronts, plus 240mm diameter rears), New Laguna-sourced front callipers (57mm),
and Mégane II rear callipers (34mm).

Segment leading cabin space and flexibility
In day to day use, passengers will appreciate the roomy, modular interior and spacious
boot, all hallmarks of Twingo which stands out as the A-segment benchmark in these
domains. Depending on market (and/or chassis type), two types of rear seats are
available:
- a removable, folding rear bench seat,
- independent, sliding rear seats for customers who prefer a practical, modular interior.
As is the case for Twingo, this new hot hatch offers a smart system that comprises two
independent, sliding rear seats featuring fore-aft travel of 220mm. The different options
made possible by the modular interior enable boot volume to extend from 165dm3
VDA
(with the rear seats in their rearmost position; a layout which favours rear passenger
comfort), to 285dm3
VDA (rear seats in their foremost position to favour boot space), and
even 959dm3
VDA with the independent seats folded and tipped forward.
Twingo Renault Sport consequently boasts the biggest boot volume for a vehicle of its
size. The same seats offer rear legroom of up to 230mm, which is equivalent to that of
models from the next segment up.

A PUNCHY, FLEXIBLE ENGINE

Twingo Renault Sport is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.6 litre 16V engine
developed by Renault Sport Technologies. This powerplant pumps out 133hp
(98kW) at 6,750rpm with 160Nm of torque at 4,400rpm. The unit’s punchy character
is reinforced by a characteristic engine note which has been the focus of specific
development. The four-into-one exhaust is a technological feat, striking a perfect
balance between acoustics, performance and low emissions.

A sporty, normally-aspirated engine
Twingo Renault Sport is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre 16V engine (K4M RS)
which delivers 133hp (98kW) at 6,750rpm and 160Nm of torque at 4,400rpm. This free-
revving engine offers flexible performance and instantaneous throttle response. At low
revs and in the mid-range up to 4,500 rpm, Twingo Renault Sport offers lively yet
manageable performance for everyday use. Beyond 4,500rpm, Twingo Renault Sport
gives full vent to its sporting character with true punchy performance. The car accelerates
from standstill to 100kph in 8.7 seconds, while top speed is 201kph with the rev-limiter at
7,000rpm. Fuel consumption is a low 7 litres/100km, equivalent to CO2 emissions of
165g/km.
The 133hp 1.6 litre 16V powerplant has been developed from the 1,598cc petrol engine.
The improved power and torque are the result of modifications and improvements to the
mechanical components:
The air filling rate has been improved thanks to a specific throttle valve unit and
aluminium plenum chamber, plus revised diameters and lengths for the air-inlets.
To improve air intake and facilitate gas flow, research was carried out on the
aerodynamics of the valve seats. The calibration of the camshafts was revised to a longer
opening of the valves and higher lift (11mm compared to an average of 9mm).
The design of the combustion chamber and piston produces a high compression ratio of
11.0:1, leading to enhanced combustion and efficiency, as well as less emissions.
The continuously-variable inlet camshaft improves performance right across the rev
range. The actuator varies the timing setting to optimise valve opening and closing. This
system operates continuously through 44° of crankshaft rotation.

Sports performance and acoustic enjoyment
The experts at Renault Sport Technologies have worked hard to give Twingo Renault
Sport an engine note in keeping with its sporting character. The engine noise is minimal at
low revs, but builds mid-way through the rev range to become ‘fiery’ when pushed to its
limits.
The four-into-one exhaust manifold, made from thin-walled steel, forms the object of a
patent by Renault Sport Technologies. The technological feat is to have combined four
long steel tubes in such a restricted space. This architecture offers an excellent trade-off
between acoustics, performance and emissions. Indeed, the engine has been designed to
be able to comply with Euro5 legislation.
Twingo Renault Sport is fitted with an evolution version of the five-speed manual gearbox
(JR5). The closely-spaced ratios are linked to a fast and precise shift mechanism to
favour crisp acceleration in all gears.

THE TWINGO SAGA CONTINUES…

Twingo Renault Sport is the latest addition to the Twingo range and reinforces
Renault's status as a major player in the European small car market. It is
manufactured at the Novo Mesto factory in Slovenia.

Renault Sport Technologies expertise packed into a small car
Twingo Renault Sport is the latest model in the Renault Sport Technologies range, and
will reach market late in the third quarter of 2008 in Western Europe. This latest example
of Renault’s hot hatch prowess rounds off the Renault Sport family which already includes
Clio and Mégane Renault Sport.

With nearly 13,000 registrations in 40 countries in 2007, the Renault Sport range
registered an increase in volume of more than 50% compared with 2006.
The arrival of the new Twingo Renault Sport will help the Group expand its presence even
further in the hot hatch market. The United Kingdom is the number one market for Renault
Sport vehicles, and should account for a third of sales. France, Spain, Italy, Germany and
Switzerland are expected to share half of Twingo Renault Sport registrations.

The Twingo success story
Twingo was progressively introduced in Europe from June 2007. Up to the end of June
2008, approximately 140,000 cars had been sold which is in keeping with the ambitious
objectives it has been set. It stands out as the segment's clear leader in France with sales
in excess of 60,000. Twingo also sells very well in Belgium, where it tops its segment,
Germany and Holland (second in segment). Twingo enjoys a 10 per cent share of the
small car market in Western Europe, which puts it in the top-three. For comparison
purposes, the segment share of the first generation Twingo in Europe was 4.5 per cent as
of the end of June 2007.
Upper range versions account for more than half of total sales, and Twingo GT has also
proved immensely popular, with a share of up to 25 per cent in markets like Switzerland
where sports models are particularly appreciated.
In addition to rounding off the Twingo range, Twingo Renault Sport reasserts Renault's
role as a key player in the small car segment in Europe.

Optimized production lines
Twingo Renault Sport is produced at the Novo Mesto factory in Slovenia which is where
all Twingos are manufactured. Novo Mesto enjoys both ISO 9001 and ISO 14001
certification. It applies the Renault Production Way (SPR) and the standard of quality it
delivers is as high as that of any Renault Group production facility.
The Renault Sport version is manufactured on the same line as Clio Campus and New
Twingo. The three vehicles are based on the same platform, which allowed the facility to
adjust quickly to the new model. Some 80 per cent of manufacturing operations are
identical between Clio Campus and New Twingo, while 90 per cent are common between
Twingo and Twingo Renault Sport.

TWINGO RENAULT SPORT: AN AFFORDABLE PRICE AND A DRIVING TUITION FOR AN EXTRA EURO

Thanks to its competitive pricing (€15,601 in France) which includes 'Renault Sport
Experience' driving tuition, Twingo Renault Sport opens up the Renault Sport thrill
to a wider range of customers, while putting them in complete control.
The Twingo Renault Sport range is simple and attractive: sporty looks, a 133hp 1.6
litre 16V engine and a choice of two chassis (Sport or Cup). The car can be
customized to every driver’s taste: exterior and interior Renault Sport detailing is
available, along with a multimedia connection point.
From the car’s launch, Renault Sport Technologies will offer every customer a
service that is unique in the hot hatch segment: Renault Sport Experience driving
tuition. This driver training course reinforces Renault’s credentials as a socially
responsible company and is available in several European countries. It teaches new
buyers how to handle their new hot hatch, so they can get maximum enjoyment
from Renault Sport’s cars in total safety.
In France, the start of sales will be on September 11th
.
Twingo Renault Sport, an appealing, straightforward range
This compact hot hatch completes the Renault Sport range, alongside Clio and Mégane
Renault Sport. It is attractively priced, at just €15,600 in France, which includes 'Renault
Sport Experience' driving tuition (for a supplement of €1 in France),
Twingo Renault Sport emits 165g of CO2/km. In the context of the French pollution
bonus/penalty scheme, the car had a penalty of just €200.
This hot hatch sets the standard in terms of comfort and versatility. In France, the car is
fitted with independent, sliding rear seats as standard (on the sports chassis with 16-inch
aluminium alloy wheels).
To satisfy the most demanding driving enthusiasts, Twingo Renault Sport is also available
with a Cup chassis. This chassis is available with 17-inch Dark Anthracite alloys wheels
and, in France, a rear bench seat (which can be removed or folded), all of which
generates a weight saving of 17kg.
Twingo Renault Sport also premieres a new Renault Sport body colour which recalls that
of Twingo Concept: Altica Grey. Three other metallic paint finishes are available
(Pearlescent Black, Extreme Blue, Platine Grey), plus one non-metallic finish (Vif Red).
In France, the start of sales will be on September 11th
.
A hot hatch for everybody’s taste
From launch, Twingo Renault Sport will be available with a wide range of options to suit
every customer’s taste. Renault Sport graphics can be applied to the front quarter panels,
the rear bumper and can even to the key housing. Inspired by the chequered flag design,
these dynamic graphics evoke the world of motor sport. The newcomer also features
latest-generation communications technology: hands-free Bluetooth telephone controls
and an audio connection box which permits drivers to connect an MP3 player or iPod® in
total safety.

Renault Sport Experience, socially responsible driver training…
With its sharp looks, punchy engine and capable chassis, there’s no doubting Twingo
Renault Sport’s fun-to-drive, sporty character. Competitive pricing (€15,601 in France)
means that the car will be the entry point to the Renault Sport range for a new group of
customers. Our predictions indicate that nearly half of potential buyers are under 30 years
of age. To support these customers buying their first hot hatch, Renault Sport is offering
every client in several European markets a service that is completely unique in this
segment: the Renault Sport Experience. Highly-trained instructors will train Twingo
Renault Sport drivers in safe driving techniques (position of hands on the steeringwheel,
driving lines, braking, management of the ABS and ESP, etc.).
The Renault Sport Experience is endorsed by Romain Grosjean. He proves that it’s
possible to be young and passionate about sports driving while remaining socially
responsible, both on track and on the road.
Equipment (in France):

Twingo GT:
o Body colour side protective mouldings,
o GT-badged sill,
o Satin grey rear spoiler,
o Chrome exhaust tailpipes,
o TCE 100hp engine,
o Rain and light sensors,
o Ashtray and cigar lighter,
o Boot light,
o 15-inch Noxiane alloy wheels,
o Driver's side one-touch electric window,
o 80W radio-CD with MP3 playback, remote display, fingertip remote control and
RCA socket in the glovebox,
o Extra-tinted rear windows,
o Leather steering wheel and gear knob.
Twingo Renault Sport = Twingo GT, plus
o Specific exterior styling:
- Specific front bumper with foglamp surrounds,
- Specific side skirts,
- Wider front and rear wings,
- Two-tone rear bumper with chrome exhaust tailpipes,
- 16- or 17-inch (on Cup chassis) alloy wheels,
- Dark Gunmetal Grey exterior mirrors and foglamp surrounds.
o Specific interior design:
- Dark Charcoal interior trim,
- Aluminium pedals,
- Leather steeringwheel incorporating thumb rests,
- Renault Sport rev-counter with gearshift indicator light,
- Front seats with additional lateral support, double stitching and Renault Sport badging
- Blood Orange seatbelts,
- Renault Sport-badged sills.
o Renault Sport 1.6 16V 133hp engine,
o Sport chassis,
o Fully disconnectable ESP (without emergency braking assist).
Options (in France):
o Front and rear curtain airbags €250
o Climate control €300
o Cup Pack: €450
Cup chassis + 17-inch Dark Anthracite alloy wheels + removable, folding rear bench seat
o Metallic paint €230
o Cruise control with speed limiter €230
o Panoramic sunroof €700

Accessories (in France):

Exterior customization
o 'Grey Shadows' graphics pack: €150
Three shades of grey, on either side of the car, plus rear bumper
o 'Renault Sport Chequers' graphics pack: €45
Renault Sport Chequers graphics available in: White, Anthracite Grey, Cool
Grey and Black, on the two rear pillars
o 'Chess' graphics pack: €107
Renault Sport graphics inspired by Twingo Concept
o Key graphics pack: €9
Graphics pack carried over to the key

Interior detailing
o 'Power Pads' pedal covers €60
in brushed aluminium, inspired by Twingo Concept
o Renault Sport-badged gearshift kit €150
Chrome satin finish zamac gear lever knob, leather and alcantara bellows with
Blood Orange stitching and matching base
o Practical Renault Sport-badged hand brake: €60
Chrome satin finish zamac
o Set of four Renault Sport Chequers rubber floor mats: €120
With brushed aluminium Renault Sport plaque on the driver mat
Two versions: white chequers on black, or black chequers on white
o Set of four Renault Sport Chequers fabric floor mats: €79
With brushed aluminium Renault Sport plaque on the driver mat
Two versions: white chequers on black, or black chequers on white
Connectivity and multimedia
o Hands-free Bluetooth® telephone controls €300 *
o Audio Connection Box €199 *
o Carminat Nomade €529 *
Dayton PM 2050 navigation system (Siemens VDO) with 3.5-inch colour screen and European
maps, with power support
o Carminat Nomade + Bluetooth €599 *
Dayton PM 2050 navigation system (Siemens VDO) with 4.3-inch colour screen and European
maps, plus integrated power support
* including fitment

Well, at least that's what the car appears to think. Yes, much like a teen girl with shaky self-esteem, the Mi.To must think that it looks best when it's taking its own picture, holding a camera out in front of itself just so. The shots were taken in Milan at what we're told was some kind of marketing photo shoot, but if anyone out there finds them posted on the little Alfa's MySpace profile, we won't be surprised.

Hat tip to Domenic!

Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: Yes
Fashion Victims: No
Treehuggers: No
Mack Daddies: No
Tuner Crowd: Yes
Hairdressers: No
Penny Pinchers: No
Euro Snobs: No
Working Stiffs: No
Technogeeks: No
Poseurs: No
Soccer Moms: No
Nascar Dads: No
Golfing Grandparents: No

Also Consider:
• Audi A3 2.0T
• Dodge Caliber SRT4
• Mini Cooper S Clubman
• Subaru Impreza WRX 5-door
• VW GTI 5-door
• BMW 135i and massive debt
• Moving to France, buying the greatest of all hot hatches, the Peugeot 205 Gti 1.9 and taking up smoking

Vitals:
• Manufacturer: Mazda
• Model year: 2008
• Base Price: $23,090
• Price as Tested: $24,805
• Engine type: 2.3-Liter Turbocharged DOHC I4
• Horsepower: 263 @ 5,500 RPM
• Torque: 280 @ 3,000 RPM
• Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
• Curb Weight: 3,180 lbs
• LxWxH: 177.8" x 69.5" x 57.7"
• Wheelbase: 103.9"
• Tires: P215/45R18
• 0 - 60 mph: 5.8 Seconds
• EPA Fuel economy city/highway: 18/26 MPG
• NHTSA crash test rating: NA

Also see:
• 2008 Mazdaspeed3, Part One
• 2008 Mazdaspeed3, Part Two

Acceleration: ****
The 263 HP is impressive, but that's just half the story. At just 3000 RPM it's making an STI-threatening 280 lb-ft of torque. Mash the throttle in any gear, at any RPM, and the Mazdaspeed 3 pulls with minimal lag thanks to the turbocharged 2.3-liter aluminum-block inline four with direct injection. The power may drop off at 6000 RPM, short of the redline, but that's to be expected from a turbo. To help get grunt to the ground, there's a limited-slip differential and a trick torque-management system that reduces torque steer. The car still staggers around from a launch, over rough surfaces, around low-speed corners, and pretty much any other time you get on the gas in first or second gear.

Braking: ****
If you want to stop in a hurry, the brakes are quite good. However, they can feel just a bit oversensitive if you're not wearing communicative shoes. Once you get used to the relatively light pedal and short travel, they're confidence inspiring, working equally well for spirited driving on back roads or brisk sprints through the city.

Ride: ***
You don't expect a Mazda hot hatch to ride like a Buick, but that's not to say you don't feel somewhat annoyed by how bouncy the car feels over poor surfaces. It doesn't make any sense until you've brought it up to speed, where you realize they haven't forgotten to put shocks on the car, they've just tuned it to feel composed going fast. That being said, if you're planning on using this as a city car in a dense urban area, it may get a bit obnoxious.

Handling: ****
You may expect a relatively nose-heavy car like this to have a serious understeer problem; it does, but you have to be pushing seriously hard to find it. What you get instead is a car that feels well-planted and very grippy. It's not extremely flickable, like some smaller 3-door hatches, but if you keep in mind that this is actually a bigger car than a Subaru WRX 5-door (which feels soft by comparison), you don't mind so much.

Gearbox: **
Don't think that, because you're in a Japanese hatchback, everything is going to feel light and dainty. The gearbox and the clutch are very weighty. That's not a bad thing, though, as I much prefer feeling like I'm operating a machine rather than just pushing plastic buttons. No, the problem I had with the shift action was not weight, but vagueness. At times, it's hard to distinguish between selecting 1st or 3rd, and 3rd or 5th, which is not a unique issue, but an issue nonetheless. A bigger issue is that the shift into 5th or 6th gear requires too much effort at an angle, which, for my arm, was uncomfortable and tiring. But maybe I just need to go to the gym.

Audio: ****
The Bose system, with its 222W digital amp, on this Grand Touring model pumps through 7-speakers, and sounds great. Combined with satellite radio, you'll almost forget that there's an in-dash 6-disc MP3-capable CD changer. If that's not enough, there's also an auxiliary jack for your MP3 player.

Toys: ***
The audio system has pretty much everything you need to stay entertained, but there's also an available DVD navigation system that's easy to use. If you're a techno-fiend, there's not much else. But if you're easily wowed by gimmicky tech, you would've already been sucked into buying a Ford with Sync.

Value: *****
The Mazdaspeed3 is a tremendous value. All this performance, practicality, equipment, and overall quality comes in at just over $24,800 as tested. If you want fewer options, you can get one for about $23,000.

Overall: ****
To get this much speed combined with this much practicality usually requires a paying a far higher price. That the Mazdaspeed3 combines talents to create an affordable, high-quality and, above all, discrete package is an impressive achievement. Still, if we're picky (we are), we'd like to see a touch more driver involvement. And more hot hatches on this side of the Atlantic, please.

Also see:

• 2008 Mazdaspeed3, Part One
• 2008 Mazdaspeed3, Part Three

After flashing my hi-beams in the WRX's mirrors and revving my engine as I pull up next to it at a red light, I don't even get so much as a glance from the driver. Maybe he's just playing it cool. So I turn the traction control off and wind the engine up to about 3000 RPM. Green light, release the clutch, and we're off. I kill the Scooby. Oh, wait — he wasn't racing. So I try again at the next light. Will he take the bait this time? Nope. And that's the thing about the Mazdaspeed3; nobody seems to think it's anything special. To most eyes it's nothing more than a normal Mazda 3 hatchback. Paint it in a dark color and it's practically invisible. Which means that the WRX probably didn't even take me seriously enough to bother wasting gas on. It actually would have been a close race, but it didn't happen. So, I continue cruising.

To say there's a proper method for illegal street racing may sound oxymoronic, but it's true. You hear from a friend who heard from a friend that there's a bunch of guys that hang out at a certain place, and from there they go to the place where they actually race. You don't need to bother asking when, because it will always be at a spontaneous time after midnight. That is to say, the serious guys aren't out at 9PM just driving around hoping to find a victim — like what I'm doing.

So I start looking for parking-lot hangout spots, and eventually find one. Immediately I start scoping out the competition: a few enhanced Audis, a late-model Mustang, a kid with mom's CL55 AMG, an Evo IX, a small crew of crotch-rockets, the obligatory mid-life crisis man with his Corvette convertible, and some other stuff drifting in and out. Slim pickings. I buzz through in first gear to gauge reactions. With the relatively loud stock exhaust, I actually do get a few glances from some guys. I say "guys" not because there aren't any girls around hanging out, but because not a single one of them seemed to care. It's as if my gray 5-door compact isn't sexy enough. So I park the car and sit with my windows down and the stereo up. But time passes and nothing happens. This is lame. I resume cruising, but as one suburb blends into another and into another, I feel like I'm just driving in circles. Out here it's just an endless blur of shopping malls, big-box stores, chain restaurants, and cubicle farms. I've gotta get out of here.

The next morning I wake up at my own leisure, and engage in a lost cultural ritual known as breakfast. Today I'm setting my own pace instead of trying to keep up with the rat race. So, when the navigation system asks me which route I want to take on my spontaneous trip up to Wisconsin, I choose the one with the fewest number of expressways. If I encounter a few dawdling Lincolns along the way, so be it. Cars like this shouldn't be confined to petty stoplight cockfights; they should actually be driven. Sure, the back roads to Madison are no Nürburgring, but at least I get to focus more on the driving and less on weaving between traffic and watching for speed traps. And it's out here, surrounded only by farmland and lakes, that the car calms down. It's no longer fidgety and bouncy, but poised and confident. No longer am I being dragged around by the brute force, but I'm part of the machine—and we want to go faster.

Also see:

• 2008 Mazdaspeed3, Part Two
• 2008 Mazdaspeed3, Part Three

The Rucksack includes wheels so it can detach and be rolled with ease. In fact, the only downside of this $425 accessory is that it blocks the entire back windshield. But that's why we all learned how to reverse with our side-view mirrors in driver's training now, isn't it? [Auto Rucksack via boj]

And yes, the changes are a-plenty under the hood, as Abt's tuning team took the base engine from VW and spun the dial to 11 by way of a modified motor management system and the introduction of an Abt compressor kit with supercharger and air cooling system. Those changes bump the base model up 120 horses to a tire-squealing 370 HP. Those changes to the motor also boost the top speed to over 168 MPH, with a 0-to-60 time of a mere 5.0 seconds. Five ain't scratch, but it ain't too shabby either. [via World Car Fans]

Hopefully the horrible decontenting fate that sank the C170 Focus for us doesn't beset the Fiesta, but we'll just have to wait and see. If you don't remember how the long winded press release felt when it first came out, go nuts soldiering through it down below.

FIESTA FOREVER: FORD'S NEW-GENERATION GLOBAL SMALL CAR PREVIEWED AT 2008 Geneva Motor Show

COLOGNE, 14 February, 2008 - Ford of Europe is reinventing its small car range for a new generation of customers in 2008, starting with a stylish and exciting all-new Fiesta. First Details of the three-door model are released today, and the car will make its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

Designed and developed in Europe for sale in Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and the Americas between 2008 and 2010, the new Fiesta is the first major product of Ford's new global product development process. Its stylish and dynamic flair combines with all the traditional Ford small car strengths to create a confident, contemporary introduction to the next chapter of the Fiesta success story.

The new Fiesta opens another chapter in the story of the popular Ford small car that has sold more than 12 million units since its introduction in 1976. Charismatic and individual, the new model makes major strides in craftsmanship, quality of materials and product choice while continuing to represent Fiesta's traditional strengths of practicality, value for money, agility and safety. It also brings a host of big-car features to the small-car segment for the first time.

New Fiesta clearly embodies the hallmarks of 'kinetic design', which has so convincingly infused emotion into the core of the Ford range in Europe. The Geneva debut confirms that new Fiesta will bring the most appealing elements of Verve, a trio of concept cars shown recently around the world, to production reality.

It also ends speculation surrounding the name of Ford's new-generation small car for global markets.

"This new car embodies the very essence of Fiesta - fun, vitality and emotion," said John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe. "We know there isn't a better name for the new model, and we have over thirty years of investment in the Fiesta brand to consider.

"We're confident that the combination of dynamic new 'kinetic design' exterior, great interior design and craftsmanship, and a host of new technologies and features will provide compelling reasons for a new generation of customers around the world to take a fresh look at the Ford Fiesta. I know they will be both surprised and delighted with what they see and feel," Fleming added.

Small Car with Global Plans

The new Ford Fiesta is closely related to the exciting Verve Concept vehicle that was revealed to great acclaim at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Frankfurt car was one of three Verve Concepts, with the others, both four-door sedans tailored for regional market tastes, shown recently at Guangzhou in China and the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Together, these concepts paved the way for the company's new global small car programme for the 2008 to 2010 period, with the European Fiesta first to debut in production guise.

Ford designers and product development engineers in Europe have led the vehicle's global development process.

"For Ford, this is truly a world premiere," said Joe Bakaj, Vice President of Product Development, Ford of Europe. "The new Fiesta is the first car born from our new global product development process. More than ever, we're leveraging our global product development expertise, and this car sets the scene for future great products for customers around the world that are already being developed behind it in the Ford Global Product Development System pipeline."

European production of the new Fiesta commences in the autumn of 2008 at the company's Cologne plant in Germany. Later, as production ramps up, the Valencia Assembly Plant will bring additional Fiesta capacity on line in 2009.

"Fiesta has its heart in Europe but its eyes on the world," said Marin Burela, Ford's Global Executive Director for small-car development. "We're building on Ford's hertitage of excellence in small car development to give the new Fiesta truly global reach and identity. By 2010, this new small-car family will be manufactured in Europe, Asia and North America and be marketed as Fiesta in all of the world's key automotive markets."

The new vehicle range will introduce several Ford firsts for a small car, including - from later in 2008 - another model in the new Ford ECOnetic range promising CO2 emissions of fewer than 100 grams per kilometre.

Fit and Trim

* New model retains predecessor's compact size, but is lighter and stronger
* Intelligent Protection System includes new driver's knee airbag
* Detailed enhancements to acclaimed driving character include Electric Power Assisted Steering (E-PAS) and reduced road, wind and powertrain noise

Unlike key competitors in the European small-car segment which have grown in size and weight, the new Fiesta stands on virtually the same footprint as before. The new-generation Fiesta is actually lighter than its predecessor.

"Staying small and resisting weight gains were key objectives of the new Fiesta development process," said Joerg Beyer, Fiesta Chief Carline Engineer. "We've been absolutely committed to keeping Fiesta a compact car and having a razor-sharp focus on cutting weight. That really pays off when it comes to fuel economy and CO2 emissions."

Component by component, the Ford development team scrutinised for weight but refused to compromise on key areas that are important to customers. One of the biggest is safety, where new Fiesta makes a bold step forward with an extremely robust safety structure and the Intelligent Protection System of safety technologies that brings a driver's knee airbag to Fiesta for the first time.

The new Fiesta makes extensive use of ultra high-strength steels in its body structure. A remarkable amount of these specialist steels, including boron steel and dual-phase steel, is the secret to Fiesta's quantum leap in structural stiffness for its light weight. These steels are used particularly in safety critical areas, such as the A-pillar and B-pillar, part of the ultra-rigid 'door ring' structure of the Fiesta bodyside.

Extending Fiesta's traditional excellence in driving dynamics was also a priority. The new Fiesta will have a dynamic character to match its poised, 'kinetic design' style hinting at energy in motion. Ford's acclaimed dynamics engineers also worked hard to enhance Fiesta's ride comfort and isolate road, wind and powertrain noise from the cabin, and to give the new model an impressively quiet driving quality for a small car.

New Fiesta retains the MacPherson strut front suspension and twist-beam rear suspension layout that has been one of its traditional strengths, but the new suspension and steering system has undergone an array of enhancements.

Electric-Power Assist Steering (E-PAS) is introduced in the Fiesta for the first time. E-PAS provides the right balance of low-speed assistance and excellent feel and responsiveness.

E-PAS has another key benefit. It is another key facet of new Fiesta's initiatives to reduce fuel consumption.

The electric power steering pump only operates when steering-effort assistance is required, unlike traditional hydraulic PAS pumps that operate constantly when the engine is running. This brings a fuel consumption reduction.

Efficient Powertrain Choices

* Total of five powertrain choices at launch from efficient 68 PS Duratorq TDCi diesel to new Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT petrol engine which delivers 115 PS
* Fiesta ECOnetic ultra-low CO2 model will deliver less than 100g/km emissions

With a broad array of powertrain choices, the new Fiesta is a responsive, yet efficient, performer.

New to the Fiesta range for European markets is the popular Ford Duratec 1.6-litre Ti-VCT engine. The 115 PS engine with variable intake cam timing, provides a well-balanced blend of performance and economy. It brings a 15 PS performance improvement over the outgoing Fiesta without a fuel consumption penalty.

The Fiesta range also retains:

* 1.25-litre (60 and 80 PS) and 1.4-litre (91 PS) Duratec petrol engines
* Both Duratorq TDCi common-rail diesel engines, the 1.4-litre (68 PS) and the 1.6-litre (90 PS - available with Diesel Particulate Filter) which have been enhanced with revised injection technology and electronic control sophistication.

Fiesta will be offered with Ford Durashift 5-speed manual transmission or the Durashift
4-speed automatic transmission (available with 1.4-litre (91 PS) Duratec engine).

Concept becomes Reality

* Production Fiesta is clearly related to Verve Concept
* Futuristic interior from Concept makes production with integrated HMI centre stack
* New technology highlights include keyless vehicle technology, 'Ford Power' engine start button, Ford Easyfuel capless refuelling, USB connectivity and ambient interior lighting

The new Ford Fiesta brings the radical Verve Concept exterior and interior styling to production reality and incorporates features and technologies normally found in larger, more expensive vehicles. It rejects the notion that an affordable small car has to be basic or boring.

The highlight of the Verve Concept interior - the futuristic, mobile phone-inspired, human-machine interface technology of the instrument panel centre stack - will be a core feature of the new Ford Fiesta when it hits the road.

Gone is the flat, upright centre stack of the instrument panel, a feature typical of many small cars driven by the need to package a large radio head unit behind the fascia panel. New technology allows Fiesta to separate the key elements of audio system - the control buttons, display and underlying electronics - in a distributed architecture that gives designers more freedom to create aesthetically pleasing, functional shapes.

Many customers of the new-generation Ford Fiesta were raised with mobile phones and they will be instantly comfortable with the design of the car's Ford Convers+ system, which follows the centre stack contours to frame a large-screen display and control panel with key buttons for audio, in-car phone and vehicle settings.

Convenient toggle switches incorporated into the steering wheel allow the driver to control the system's key functions easily and intuitively.

The Ford Convers+ feature - already available on the Ford Mondeo, S-MAX and Galaxy models - represents a major step forward for the small car buyer. It is just one of several new features and technologies in the new Fiesta, including keyless vehicle technology symbolised by the distinctive 'Ford Power' button on the instrument panel.

The advanced technology of Convers+ will not be offered solely on high-spec vehicles. Ford expects more than 85 per cent of Fiesta orders to feature one of two available multi-function displays.

Another Verve Concept feature - the lozenge shaped array of large twist dials for the heating and ventilation systems at the midpoint of the centre stack - is retained in the production Fiesta design. This feature was inspired by the design of contemporary power showers.

Connectivity is another new Fiesta strength. The new centre console features a convenient tray for MP3 players complete with built-in jack sockets for an auxiliary (AUX) audio cable and a USB, along with the traditional 12 Volt outlet. This allows the car's audio system to control and charge the MP3 player.

Bluetooth® connectivity with Voice Control is also offered in the new Fiesta, along with more big-car technologies, including:

* Ford Easyfuel, the convenient capless refuelling system recently introduced with the Ford Mondeo designed to prevent accidental misfuelling
* Reach and rake steering wheel adjustment
* New ambient lighting features that provide a softly elegant red glow to discreetly highlight the interior of the vehicle
* 'One shot' up and down driver window with anti-trap technology

Bold, Dynamic, Sculpted

The bold colours, dynamic shapes and sculpted surfaces of the new Ford Fiesta indicate how deeply the spirit of the Verve Concept has been carried into production as the latest model of Ford's 'kinetic design' family.

Exciting and vibrant new production colours include 'Squeeze' and 'Hot Magenta', which is a production version of the unique colour developed for the three-door Verve Concept car.

"We were so pleased with the positive reaction to the body colour of the first Verve Concept, that we decided to adopt this colour for inclusion in the range soon after launch," said Burela.

The dynamic, coupé-like profile and sporty stance of the new Fiesta demonstrates that none of the emotional appeal of the concept cars has been lost.

"All the vital elements of 'kinetic design' combine to create a visually rich, dynamic exterior shape that is very close indeed to the original concept car," said Martin Smith, Ford of Europe's Executive Director for Design. "Full surfaces, bold graphics and dynamic lines combine coherently and harmoniously to create a dynamic spirit of fun and energy in motion."

With a feeling of toned muscularity, the new Fiesta asserts an air of confidence, stylishness and individuality. Its aggressively contoured bonnet and front wings convey a broad-shouldered stance, and its face features a distinctive signature element - a bold lower trapezoidal grille that draws attention and reinforces the key Ford attribute of sporty driving dynamics.

Chrome and brightwork are used selectively, like jewellery accents, to convey elegance and sophistication.

Large and full of character directly from the Verve concepts, Fiesta's bold headlamps become part of the shoulder shape and extend aggressively rearward almost as far as the stylishly raked A-pillars. The headlamp units incorporate all primary front lighting and signal functions - complemented on the lower bumper flanks by round, chrome-ringed fog lamps.

New Fiesta's profile emphasises its new, cab-forward shape and an attitude of poised, sporty style. The sweeping roofline extends appealingly from the forward-stretching A-pillar rearward, framing the bold graphic of the Fiesta side window profile to create the sporty feeling of a coupé for both three-door and yet-to-be-revealed five-door bodystyles.

"The Design team put as much importance on the shape of the five-door as the three-door," said Stefan Lamm, Chief Designer Exterior, Ford of Europe. "Both cars are based on the same body, which makes them sporty and dynamic, almost coupé-like."

The Fiesta side windows combine to create a unified profile window graphic - a key 'kinetic design' element that communicates dynamism. An elegant accent of chrome frames the lower edge of the side glass and accentuates the signature Ford "kick-up" at its rear.

The new Fiesta also features the signature bold wheel arches that communicate the vehicle's stance and dynamic capabilities, giving visual emphasis to new 17-inch alloy wheels.

Dynamic, 'kinetic design' lines arc from side to side, uniting the upper corners of the tail lamps with the distinctive spoiler, which incorporates a slim LED stop lamp array. The sculpture of the body shapes is accented by elements like the new tail lamp - another Verve element that feels like it is an integral part of the body - and the V-shaped tailgate's chamfered rear glass.

"I've been saying just wait for the new Fiesta to see how kinetic design can be translated into a small car," said Martin Smith, Executive Director of Design for Ford of Europe. "But now the wait is over. New Fiesta evokes an instant emotional response that says 'I want one' which extends the traditionally practical values of the Fiesta brand to appeal to a new, style-conscious generation of small car buyers."

Full technical details of the new Fiesta range will be released closer to the launch of the production model in autumn 2008.

Ford CONFIRMS FIESTA AS GLOBAL NAME FOR SMALL CAR

COLOGNE, Germany, Feb. 14, 2008 - Ford's new small car family will use the Fiesta name around the world, the company confirmed today.

Designed and developed in Europe for customers in Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and the Americas between 2008 and 2010, the new Fiesta is the first major product of Ford's new global product development process. This new small car keeps alive a name synonymous with more than 30 years of success and strong driving dynamics in Europe and is already well known in markets across Asia, Australia and South America. The Fiesta also was offered in the U.S. from 1978 to 1980.

"The new Ford Fiesta captures every aspect of what's defined Ford as a small-car leader in Europe and builds on it in terms of driving dynamics and design," said Mark Fields, president of the Americas, Ford Motor Company. "When it arrives in North America in 2010, the Ford Fiesta will set a new standard in the small car segment. Even before it arrives in this market, though, the new Fiesta demonstrates how leveraging our global strengths can yield attractive benefits for customers around the world."

The dynamic new look for this global family of small cars was previewed in three Ford Verve Concept vehicles which made their debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2007, the Guangzhou Motor Show in November 2007 and the North American International Auto Show in January 2008.

In Europe, the new Fiesta will debut first in production guise at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show in March and will go on sale in fall 2008 in three- and five-door hatchback body styles. By 2010, the new Fiesta will be on sale in markets across Europe, Asia, South Africa, Australia and North America in a variety of regionally tailored models derived from a common platform.

"With the all-new Fiesta, we want to create a world standard for small car quality, design and comfort in a vehicle that is as exciting to drive as it is to look at. We believe this all-new model will attract a whole new generation of small car buyers, whether they are in Britain, Spain, China or California," said Alan Mulally, Ford Motor Company President and CEO. "The new Ford Fiesta will set the standard for delivering to our customers products they really want and value while taking advantage of our wonderful global resources."

The new Ford Fiesta brings the dynamic Verve Concept exterior and interior styling to production reality, demonstrating that small cars can be stylish, sophisticated and emotional. It rejects the notion that an affordable small car has to be a commodity.

The new Ford Fiesta also makes major strides in small car craftsmanship, quality of materials and product choice while continuing to represent traditional strengths of practicality, value for money, agility and safety. It also brings a host of big-car features to the small-car segment for the first time.

"The new Ford Fiesta is an example of how good a small car can be," said Jim Farley, Ford's group vice president, Marketing and Communications. "The Fiesta is great to look at, great to drive and it has quality you can see, feel and touch. It's going to be an important growth product for North America."

A key Ford Fiesta strength throughout its life has been its acclaimed driving quality, and the new model intends to uphold this reputation. Ford's dynamics engineers also worked hard to enhance Fiesta's ride comfort and isolate road, wind and powertrain noise from the cabin, and to give the new model an impressively quiet driving quality for a small car.

Fiesta for a New Generation

The all-new Fiesta opens another chapter in the story of the popular Ford small car that has sold more than 12 million units since its introduction in 1976 and represented real change when it came on the automotive scene. While it has moved with the times and fashions over the years, it has remained steadfast in its dedication to providing economical, practical and dependable transportation for people of all ages.

Starting in the early 1970s, the Fiesta project became a personal mission of Ford's Chairman, Henry Ford II. A passionate believer in small cars, Ford rallied his company to the mission of creating a new model. He personally was involved in every step of the long process that led to the grand opening of the new automotive assembly plant in Almusafes, Valencia, with the attendance of the newly crowned King of Spain, Juan Carlos.

With the global fuel crisis as extra incentive, at the end of 1973, the Ford Board of Directors gave Project Bobcat, as it was originally known, the go-ahead for development and production. Fiesta didn't get its name until 1974, when Ford whittled down a list of 50 potential names to just five. The final choice went to Henry Ford II, and his preference for Fiesta was entirely appropriate given the creation of the new manufacturing plant in Spain.

In Europe, the new Fiesta will be built at Ford's Valencia manufacturing facility in Spain beginning in early 2009 alongside the Cologne manufacturing plant, which starts production in fall 2008.

A production announcement for the Ford Fiesta in Asia will be announced in April at the Beijing Motor Show. A North America announcement will come at a later date.

New Mazda2 To Debut At Geneva

The new Mazda2 three-door hatchback will make its world premiere on Tuesday 4 March at the 78th Salon International de l'Auto de Genève. This is the first time that Mazda has offered a three-door variant in its popular Mazda2 model range. The newcomer will feature all the attributes of the five-door hatchback, but delivering an even sportier feel at a more affordable price.

The new Mazda2 three-door hatchback is designed to attract new customers and boost Mazda's continued growth in the European market. It comes with the same powertrain line-up - the lively and responsive MZR 1.3-litre and 1.5-litre petrol engines and the MZ-CD 1.4-litre turbo diesel - as the five-door hatchback. These engines achieve high fuel efficiency together with particularly low CO2 emissions.

The three-door Mazda2 shares the same overall dimensions as the five-door and achieves a similarly modest kerb weight, model for model. The five-door Mazda2 has already demonstrated that by completely redesigning the body and chassis and implementing Mazda's unique 'gram strategy', the brand's small car weight could be reduced to under the 1,000 kilogram threshold. This outstanding result reverses the industry trend towards bigger and heavier cars.

Launched in September 2007 as Mazda's first new-generation Zoom-Zoom vehicle to evolve to the next level, the new Mazda2 was an immediate hit with European customers. In December 2007, it was awarded a 5-Star safety rating by Euro-NCAP and it has won more than 20 automotive awards. These include Car of the Year awards in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Denmark, Greece and New Zealand, along with the Japan RJC Car of the Year.

The Geneva Show will also witness three Mazda European debuts: the Mazda Taiki concept car, equipped with a next-generation rotary engine, the Mazda5 Hydrogen RE Hybrid and the upgraded Mazda's RX-8 four-seater, four-door sports car.

[Source: Mazda]