Speaking to Automotive News, Chevrolet's Vice President, Ed Pepper, said, ""Of the triplets, we will get one of those variants." But he wouldn't reveal which one.

The 2009 Beat will be produced in China for sale in Asia and Europe, but has been deemed too small for the US market. When the Trax or Groove (or whatever they end up calling it) finds its way here, it'll be expanded to the size of the Chevy Aveo, forming that model's replacement. It'll be built on GM's Gamma small car platform in Mexico.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: GM is in desperate need of a sexy replacement for the Aveo, so it's a shame we'll have to wait 3 whole years to get one. Let's hope that in that time, small cars don't experience yet another exponential leap in quality and appeal, rendering GM's effort behind the curve before it even reaches market. Again.
[via: Automotive News]

2 Based on the smart fortwo The Ultimate City Sports Car

The exterior is custom-painted a flaming mother-of-pearl/orange color, the
interior is upholstered in black BRABUS leather and Alcantara with orange
seams, and it has lots of power under the hood: BRABUS presents the limited-edition special model
BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 at the Frankfurt International Auto Show IAA 2007. The
ULTIMATE 112 is based on the smart fortwo and is a true city sports car. And
as such it represents a unique combination of extravagant equipment, sporty
performance and agile handling.

In addition to the custom paint the BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 sets itself further
apart with a muscular body kit that includes a front spoiler, rocker panels
and BRABUS WIDESTAR fender flares front and back.

The large wheel houses offer ample space for a tire/wheel combination that
is highly unusual for a car of this size: The glossy black BRABUS Monoblock
VI double-spoke wheels are mounted on the front axle in size 7Jx18 with size
205/35 R 18 high-performance tires. In the rear 8.5Jx18 wheels with size
235/30 R 18 tires provide plenty of grip to transfer the power of the engine
to the road.

Specially calibrated to these ultra-low-profile tires and the wider track is
the height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over suspension that combines direct, safe
and sporty handling with great ride comfort.

With these modifications the ULTIMATE 112 offers the perfect platform for
the powerful BRABUS three-cylinder turbo engine. As the exclusive special
model's name reveals, the engine produces 112 PS (110 hp) / 82.4* kW at
5,750 rpm. Even more important for everyday driving is the for this vehicle
class exceptional peak torque of 150 Nm (111 lb-ft), available over a wide
rev range from 2,800 to 4,200 rpm.

Shifting in the BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 is done either automatically or with
steering-wheel paddles just like in Formula 1 racing. The paddles are
mounted to an ergonomically shaped BRABUS sport steering wheel.

With sprint times from 0 - 60 km/h (0-37 mph) in 3.9 seconds and 0 - 100
km/h (0-62 mph) of 9.5 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of
170 km/h (106 mph) the convertible also sets the performance benchmarks in
its class.

This performance is accompanied acoustically by the BRABUS stainless-steel
sport exhaust and its dual tailpipes made from cast aluminum.

Exquisite highlights also abound in the interior of the ULTIMATE 112: The
especially soft and breathable black BRABUS Mastik leather is stitched with
orange seams.

The BRABUS interior concept includes embossed BRABUS emblems as well as
instrument panel, instrument bezels, tach, speedometer, clock, turn-signal
lever and door handles, all color-coordinated with the exterior.
Stainless-steel foot pedals with anti-slip padding together with an aluminum
shifter and emergency brake lever add touches of racing atmosphere.

A climate control system, radio and a navigation system are also part of the
standard equipment of this open two-seater.

The BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 is being built in a limited-edition series of just
112 cars, each sporting a consecutively numbered placard in the interior.
The BRABUS ULTIMATE 112 sells for 45,900 Euros MSRP.

As Bob Pollard says, the popular mechanics are at it again. They've caught what looks to be a Mazda Verisa near Ford's headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan. Could Ford be planning to go quite this small for a potential B-segment entrant? As Popular Mechanics points out, the Verisa is only 150 inches long, which means it could fit between the axles of a Ford F150. Of course, Ford engineers probably have the keys to all kinds of testers like this, as it debates how best to go after the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa, without rebadging the company's own Mazda2. And just as well, this specimen could be just another cobbled-together mule. We'll know more next year. – Mike Spinelli

Ford's Mystery Mini Is Version of Overseas Mazda Verisa: Spy Report [Popular Mechanics blog]

Related:
Geneva Pre-Show: The New Mazda2 [internal]

SIZE DOESN'T MATTER: THREE CHEVROLET GLOBAL MINICAR CONCEPTS PACK A LOT OF PERSONALITY AND STYLE PER MILE

NEW YORK - Three Chevrolet minicar global concepts designed to appeal to young car buyers in urban markets prove that art needn't take a back seat just because the canvas is small. Revealed today at the New York Auto Show, the highly creative Chevrolet Beat, Chevrolet Groove and Chevrolet Trax concepts drive the energy, diversity and excitement of urban life into cars that deliver good-looking fun, fuel economy and value.

Democracy lovers will even get the chance to pick their favorite by visiting www.vote4chevrolet.com and casting their vote for the Beat, Groove or Trax. The results will help Chevrolet determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, and which design/capability package resonates best with potential buyers.

All three concepts were designed at GM's Design Studio in Inchon , South Korea . One of GM's 11 Global Design Studios, the designers in the Korean center are experts in small car product development.

Built on GM's global mini architecture, these concepts demonstrate the flexibility, creativity and innovative focus of design in GM's Asia Pacific region. The Chevrolet Beat concept, a running prototype of a micro import tuner, was built in India ; while the Chevrolet Groove and Trax micro urban crossover concepts were built at the GM Tech Center in Warren , Mich.

"The Chevrolet Beat, Groove and Trax concepts highlight the strength and diversity of GM's Global Design capabilities, as well as the ability of our Global Product Development team to anticipate and quickly meet the evolving needs of our diverse markets around the world," said Ed Welburn, vice president, GM Global Design.

"The design team was so enthused about being given the assignment to develop the perfect small car for urban commuters that they created not one, but three interpretations of how this car may be developed for Chevrolet customers around the world."

Chevrolet is one of four GM global brands, meeting diverse customer needs in 120 countries with vehicles that range from subcompacts and family sedans to full-size pickups and SUVs and iconic sports cars such as the Corvette. The concepts revealed in New York , for example, offer three different fuel-efficient engines, including a diesel.

"The Chevrolet Beat, Groove and Trax concepts have the potential to expand the reach of Chevrolet - already a beloved brand around the world - even further, connecting with young buyers on multiple continents who desire fun-yet-efficient transportation," said Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper. "These are the same brand attributes that made Chevrolet a household name in the U.S. "

Here's a look at Chevrolet's three minicar concepts:

* Chevrolet Beat : Designed to evoke the mood of a speedy micro import tuner, the Beat is a front-wheel-drive, three-door hatchback concept built to be personalized, and powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine mated to an automatic transmission. It's loaded with technology, including a navigation system and premium stereo.

* Chevrolet Groove: A "funkastalgia"-themed vehicle too tough-looking to be "cute," the Groove concept is a retro-inspired vehicle with bodacious fender flares and an upright windshield. It looks much longer than it is, thanks to its short hood and long cabin. The front-drive Groove is powered by a small, efficient 1-liter diesel engine.

* Chevrolet Trax: An urban crossover concept that's equally at home on the trails or in traffic, it gets a low-cost all-wheel-drive system and looks the part of a rugged SUV many times its size, thanks to a voluminous one-piece bumper and fender system in the front and back, a rear-mounted spare tire and a roof rack. Trax is powered by a 1-liter gas engine.

GM's Global Product Development process

The Chevrolet Beat, Groove and Trax concepts were designed and built leveraging GM's Global Product Development process, created from best practices around the world that integrate design, engineering, powertrain and manufacturing organizations to ensure each vehicle program meets its quality, timing and business targets, yet is responsive to the needs in regional markets.

As part of its global product development process, GM is growing the skills and capabilities of its design and engineering centers in several emerging markets, using key tools and technologies, such as a global virtual design and engineering network, that allows engineers and designers to collaborate with each other around the world.

Chevrolet's global footprint

Chevrolet is one of the fastest-growing brands in the world, with a sales increase of 158 percent outside North America since 2001. Chevrolet sold 4.3 million vehicles worldwide in 2006, 2.8 million - or 65 percent - in the United States . From 2005 to 2006, Chevrolet's sales grew 19 percent in the Latin America, Africa and the Middle East region; 19 percent in the Asia/Pacific region; and 15 percent in Europe .

The Chevrolet Aveo sedan and five-door subcompact, engineered and built in South Korea , is a strong contender in the very competitive global small car market.

About Chevrolet:

Chevrolet is America 's No. 1-selling automotive brand. With the largest dealer network in the United States , Chevrolet is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category, offering cars and trucks priced from $9,995 to $78,175. Chevrolet delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

About General Motors:

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 280,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit , GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, nearly 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

# # #

The General whose prime directive is Motors will unveil three concept minicars at the New York auto show. John Q. Public will be bid to vote on his favorite of the three urban runabouts on www.vote4chevrolet.com. The first to be revealed is the Trax concept (shown). Common sense says the contest results will have the best chance of becoming Chevrolet's new global minicar and potential Smart competitor. GM says they'll "help Chevy determine US market interest in the minicar segment, and which design resonates best with potential buyers." We'll know more when GM drops the rest of the cars debut on April 4. – Mike Spinelli

Press Release:

Chevrolet Prepared to Unveil Three Minicar Concepts Next Week in New York

The Chevrolet Trax is one of three Chevrolet minicar global concepts that General Motors will unveil at the New York International Auto Show on April 4. Designed to appeal to young car buyers in urban markets, these concepts will prove that art needn't take a back seat just because the canvas is small. The highly creative concepts drive the energy, diversity and excitement of urban life into cars that deliver good-looking fun, fuel economy and value.

After the April 4 unveiling, democracy lovers will get the chance to pick their favorite by visiting www.vote4chevrolet.com and cast their vote for the concept they prefer. The results will help Chevy determine U.S. market interest in the minicar segment, and which design resonates best with potential buyers.

All three concepts were designed at GM' s Design Studio in Incheon, South Korea, one of GM's 11 Global Design Studios. Built on GM's global mini architecture, they demonstrate the flexibility, creativity and innovative focus of design in GM's Asia Pacific region.

"These concepts highlight the strength and diversity of GM's Global Design capabilities, as well as the ability of our Global Product Development team to anticipate and quickly meet the evolving needs of our diverse markets around the world," said Ed Welburn, vice president, GM Global Design.

The four-door Trax is powered by a 1-liter gasoline engine. The upper part of the exterior is bathed in Blaze Orange, while lower corner panels sport a Burnt Orange matte finish. The paint combination provides a look that reinforces the notion this Chevrolet is all business despite its small size.

Related:
Oh-Ho-Ho, It's The 2007 Chevy Aveo! [internal]

The Mitsuoka K-4 may be pedal-car small, but at least it's probably scary as hell to drive and you can put it together yourself. (Those are pretty serious selling points for some.) Although the K-4 is powered by 50cc engine and tops out at 30 mph, we'd still get one just to bang around the Jalopnik country estate in, like Master Bates in "The Toy." [Thanks to Ilari for the tip.] – Mike Spinelli

Japanese Do-it-Yourself Cars [MAKE]

Related:
Hello Little Cars: The Mitsuoka Micro

According to our sources at Interpol, Fiat's revealing its new 500 minicar this week. As as such, early press shots have already leaked to the web. The new minicar, which takes its cues from the classic Cinquecento by way of the Fiat Trepiuno concept car of 2004, will hit dealerships in Europe later this year. The joint project will Ford Europe is also expected to spawn a replacement for the Ford Ka built on the same platform. Still no word on the Abarth tuner version, but you know that's coming. [UPDATE: They didn't so much leak as premiere for those who signed up at www.fiat500.com. But be careful, you only get one look.] – Mike Spinelli

Svelata in anteprima sul web la nuova Fiat 500 [Motori Online]

Related:
Spy Photos: Fiat 500 Presentation Leaked; Designing 500: Fiat Looking for Ideas; Spy Photos: Fiat Cinquecento; Sketches Emerge of New Fiat 500; Ford and Fiat Team up on new Fiat 500, Ka [internal]

...this comes right after VW solidified plans for its diesel sipping BlueMotion Polo (which can drive from Britain to the south coast of France on one tank). Maybe it's a pipe dream, but with the probable high cost of importing this sub-Fox auto wouldn't it be easier to justify the expense by mating it to an uber-efficient BlueMotion diesel? We're just saying. – Matt Hardigree

VW Plans New Compact Car - Daily Auto Insider [Car and Driver]

Related:
Go Blue! Volkswagen's Diesel-Sipping Polo Gets 72 mpg [internal]

The dark wizards at Mitsuoka Motors — builders of the "yuck, what's that in its mouth" Orochi supercar — are planning a new roadster for tight, urban spaces. How small is it? It's so small, it only requires an ing space (you'll get it later). Actually, the Micro is 400 lbs, has a 50cc engine (seriously) and is sold in both kit and turnkey forms — and possibly as an EV. Top speed is 31 mph. The company is waiting for approval from Japan's Ministry of Traffic, but we hear the department head, Tini Punysan, is completely in favor of it. More after the jump. – Mike Spinelli

Meet Japan's 180kg Mitsuoka Micro-Car [Motor Authority]

Related:
Mitsuoka Motors Shows Droptop Orochi Concept in Tokyo; Meet Japan's 180kg Mitsuoka Micro-Car [internal]

Toyota says it's bringing a more powerful Yaris minicar to the Paris show next month. Where the base model barely scratches the double digits in horsepower (106), the Yaris TS will wring 132 horses from a new 1.8-liter four with dual VVT-i engine and ride on a retuned suspension. Top speed on this ball of rolling thunder is 121 mph. Expect it in early 2007 for Europe and a big question mark for the US market.

Related:
Ad Watch: Toyota's Yaris — Gas Bugs Go "RAHR!" [internal]

Fans of race-bred Fiats of old will be pleased to see the Abarth badge associated with the Fiat Trepiuno concept, which is said to be a harbinger of a new, retro-styled Fiat 500 on the way. Eurocar Blog located some sketches that depict the Trepiuno in the red-and-white livery of legendary motorsports tweaker, Abarth, along with renderings of what could be the new 500's interior. Word is the new model will show up in mid-2007, possibly developed in partnership with Ford.

Fiat 500 - Interior & Abarth sketches [internal]

Related:
The Fiat Abarth 500: Racing Prowess in a Tiny Package; Ford and Fiat Team up on new Fiat 500 [internal]

Well, relatively speaking anyway. 133 miniature stallions churn away in the engine bay of Daihatsu's BOOM X4, faces planted in turbocharged feed-bags. Routed through a 5-speed gearbox, the power goes down via an AWD system. Total weight? Less than a metric ton. The hoons are screaming, Clarice. [Thanks to James for the tip.]

Daihatsu's BOOM X4 [Nihon Car & Bike]

Related:
Subaru Launches R1 Minicar in Japan [Internal]

We'd remarked earlier that the spec'd Audi A1 minicar on a recent cover of AutoBild could have its roots in the third-generation Ford Torino. But a reader identified what may be the missing link — that is, none other than the Datsun B210 of the mid-1970s. Will the A1 in three dimensions recall the same couple of me-decade wobblies, or will we be looking at something with all four wheels in the modern day when it debuts around 2010? Only Quincy M.E. may know for sure. [Thanks, Bob.]

Related:
Yikes! It s the Supposedly Non-Hoaxy Audi A1 [internal]

Toyota's PR folk released info this week on the company's upcoming economy subcompact, the Yaris, whose US closeup will come in Spring 2006. Offered in both hatchback, sorry, liftback (holy 1975!) and sedan versions, the Yaris will get a 1.5-liter four producing 106hp at 6,000 RPM and 103 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 RPM and get respectable mileage in the 34-40mpg range. No word on price, but expect a near-$12,000 opener. Click through for pics and press release.

Press Release:

European Favorite Toyota Yaris Arrives in U.S. in All-New Liftback and Sedan Versions

The 2007 Toyota Yaris will make its U.S. debut when it arrives in showrooms this spring in four-door Sedan and three-door Liftback configurations.

First launched in Europe in 1999, the Yaris was named the 2000 European "Car of the Year" and has become Toyota's best-selling model in the European market. In fact, Yaris was also named "Japan Car of the Year," marking the first time the same vehicle captured both honors in the same year. For the U.S., the Yaris will replace the ECHO in the subcompact passenger-car segment.

"As Toyota's most affordable passenger car, the Yaris will feature contemporary exterior styling and a surprising upscale interior," said Jim Lentz, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. "It will be one of the most economic and youthful passenger cars Toyota has built in the subcompact category."

The Yaris Liftback will be offered in one grade, while the Sedan will offer two grades, adding a sport-themed Yaris S.

Contemporary Styling
Yaris Liftback was styled at Toyota's European design studio, ED and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) Design Division. Both the Sedan and Liftback feature class-up styling, and a new level of refinement, sophistication, and fun-to-drive experience to the entry subcompact segment. Both Yaris configurations ride on an all-new platform that is longer and wider than its European predecessor, and will be the basis for a wide variety of future vehicles.

Yaris construction includes high-tensile steel, creating a lightweight yet rigid body to help enhance driving control and responsive steering. Reduced NVH is made possible with the application of damping materials in strategic locations throughout the vehicle.

The Liftback features a strong, modern mono-form shape made possible by its short overhangs and a low center of gravity exuding a youthful and proud stance. Color-keyed door handles and rear view mirrors contribute to the Liftback's consistent profile from front to rear. The front features a chrome-trimmed front grille centered between sharp character lines, which are integrated into its aerodynamic hood and windshield. Outer molding has been eliminated from the windshield and door glass to help enhance aerodynamics and reduce wind noise. The rear portrays a more substantial appearance with large taillights and a wide rear door for easy and ample cargo area access.

The Yaris Sedan has a long stretched cabin with an arched beltline and its tires pushed outward at each corner. Integrated bumpers and headlamps as well as a low center of gravity give the Yaris Sedan a modern and sophisticated look. Like the Liftback, it features a "T" face grille, which emphasizes the Toyota identity. In the rear, the taillights are bookends to a wide trunk that extends down to the bumper molding, which provides a more substantial appearance and allows for easy trunk access. Both the Liftback and Sedan will ride on P175/65 R14 tires with steel wheels and full wheel covers and offer available 15-inch steel or aluminum alloy wheels.

The Yaris S Sedan is designed to appeal to buyers looking for sporty styling. Side rocker panels, front and rear under bumper spoilers, 15-inch steel wheels and available aluminum alloy wheels give the Yaris S a more aggressive appearance.

Spacious and Practical Interior
The Yaris Liftback interior provides unexpected roominess and a comfortable cabin. The upscale interior provides remarkable design with four-way adjustable fabric front seats and reclining rear seating for three with headrests in all seating positions. The rear seats also fold down, providing nearly 13 cubic feet of cargo space.

Simplicity and practicality are built into the Yaris Liftback with easy-to-reach audio and climate controls, an array of storage spaces including a center console with built-in storage, and cupholders in the front and rear. The instrument cluster is center-mounted, high on the dash providing easy reach and visibility.

Standard convenience features on both the Liftback and Sedan include air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, a gated shift lever (automatic transmission only), tinted glass, digital clock, a map light, intermittent windshield wipers with mist control, and dual sunvisors with vanity mirrors.

With the longest wheelbase among key competitors, the Yaris Sedan interior conveys a feeling of spaciousness and unexpected refinement not usually found in a subcompact. The front dash is designed with center-mounted instrumentation, which is integrated with a stylish silver-painted center console. Storage and cupholders are in abundance, front and rear. Like the Liftback, the Sedan has rear seating for three with headrests in each seating position. Standard on the Yaris S and available on the Sedan are 60/40 fold down rear seats with a fold-down center armrest and cupholder. Folding the 60/40 split rear seats enlarges the trunk capacity, providing nearly 14 cubic feet of total cargo space.

Fun-To-Drive Performance and Handling
Powering both the Yaris Liftback and Sedan will be a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that will produce 106 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 103 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 RPM. Both the Liftback and Sedan will be mated to either a five-speed manual or available four-speed automatic transmission. All Yaris models with an automatic transmission will be equipped with uphill/downhill shift logic to help reduce the frequency of gear shifting caused by the operation of the accelerator pedal during winding uphill and downhill driving.

Yaris fuel efficiency will be among the highest in the subcompact segment. A preliminary EPA fuel economy mpg rating for the Liftback is estimated at 34 city/40 highway for the five-speed manual and 34 city/39 highway for models equipped with the four-speed automatic. Fuel efficiency ratings for the Yaris Sedan are equally impressive with preliminary EPA mpg estimates of 34 city/40 highway for the five-speed manual and 34 city/39 highway for the automatic.

In addition to its exceptional fuel efficiency, Yaris will be EPA-certified as an Ultra-Low Emission vehicle (ULEV II).

Yaris will ride on a strong, stiffer chassis thanks to a newly developed suspension that includes a rigid L-arm MacPherson strut front and rear torsion beams. The stiff suspension and retuned steering gear ratios help to deliver fun-to-drive handling and excellent maneuverability with a class leading turning radius. As one example of Toyota's focus on continually improved production techniques, a new hydroformed torsion beam in the rear suspension provides necessary anti-roll stabilization, eliminating the need for a separate anti-roll bar.

Safety
The new Yaris helps protect its occupants with a reinforced cabin using front and rear crumple zones and energy-absorbing materials on the roof and doors. Yaris will be equipped with height adjustable headrests and three-point seatbelts in all five seating positions. The front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters. The rear seat will be equipped with the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) uniform child restrain anchorage system.

Safety is also addressed with standard driver and passenger advanced dual-stage front airbags that inflate at a higher or lower speed, according to collision severity. A front seat passenger sensor is designed to determine if there is a person in the seat as well as the person's weight category to determine whether the airbag should inflate and at the correct inflation power. Front-seat-mounted side airbags with first and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags will also be available.

All Yaris models will also offer anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option.

Options
In addition to the array of standard convenience, performance, and safety features, Yaris will offer additional options to provide variety and enhance the customer's overall driving experience.

Yaris options include ABS, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags and cold area package. A convenience package is standard on all Yaris S and available on the Sedan and Liftback. The convenience package adds an AM/FM CD player with MP3 readability and universal mini-jack port, a rear defogger, 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, a 60/40 folding rear seat (Sedan only) and a rear wiper (Liftback only).

Also available on Liftback, Sedan and S Sedan is a Power Package offering power locks, windows, and mirrors. For the Sedan, it also includes a tachometer, upgraded trim with integrated audio, cruise control, and ABS. For the Liftback, it adds a 60/40 split rear seat that slides, reclines, and folds completely flat.

With the Power Package consumers can also add 15-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, rear spoiler, remote keyless entry, or immobilizer (Sedan only) as stand alone options. Yaris will offer a choice of 13 different exterior colors with only two, Polar White and Black Sand Pearl, shared by both the Liftback and Sedan. Additional available exterior colors for the Liftback include Blazing Blue, Meteorite Metallic, Absolutely Red, and Bayou Blue. All Liftback exterior colors are matched with a Dark Charcoal interior fabric. Additional exterior colors for the Yaris Sedan include Pacific Blue Metallic, Flint Mica, Silver Streak Mica, Barcelona Red Metallic, Olive Mist, Jade Sea Metallic, and Nautical Blue Metallic. Yaris Sedan exterior colors will be complemented with a choice of two interior fabric colors, Dark Charcoal and Beige.

Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

Related:
More on the Toyota Yaris [internal]

Treehugger is so pleased Japanese carmakers have decided to ship some of their smallest specimens to North America — and, in some cases, all the way to the US — that they've devoted column inches to examining some of the models on the way, like the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit (both of which are bound for the states). While we've unearthed larger objects flossing our teeth, in truth, we can't wait to wrap our urban-dwelling, dollar-bleeding arses in some lil' car love, starting with the Yaris, launching in US-spec form next spring for the 2007 model year. Honda hasn't announced a US timeline for the Fit, but most sources point to a mid-2006 launch. As for the Suzuki Swift and Nissan Micra, US launches are still indefinite.

Small Japanese Cars Are Coming to North-America, Again [Treehugger]

Related:
The US to Get Fit: Honda Aims to Sell 60,000 Subcompacts in the States [internal]

It's official: Fiat is building a new Cinquecento (500) minicar with an unlikely partner. As you may remember, Fiat showed an updated 500 in the guise of the Trepi no concept in Geneva this year. Now, the company has announced it will develop a production version of the Italian icon — the cultural equivalent of the New Beetle — with Ford, which will rebadge the product as its new European Ka. The companies will use Fiat's Panda small-car architecture to underpin the new models, which will be launched in 2007 (Fiat) and 2008 (Ford). Italian-languant fluents can read more at Autoblog.it. [Update: CNN/Money picked up the story. Thanks, Chris.]

Related:
Fiat May Roll Out New, Nostalgic Cinquecento; Fiat Group Goes on Product Rampage [internal]

Mazda let fly with a press package on its new Sassou urban minicar concept, which the company will unveil in Frankfurt. Based in part on the Japanese "Shoji principle of hiding and revealing, the Sassou has a body design only a planar geometrist could love, with three independent lines that barely overlap. A set of novel LED headlamps and indicators are virtually invisible until lit, and frameless side windows increase the interior daylight quotent. In a nod to young techies, the car's interior features make extensive use of USB ports and related accessories, with a "USB stick key" controlling all interior systems, storing navigation and other information and interfacing with the driver's home computer (or is that user?). Oh the engine? a turbocharged, direct-injection 1.3-liter three-cylinder, hooked to a twin-clutch six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Related:
Mazda Will Build Crossport CX-7 [internal]

Toyota will be bringing a new, urban-car concept, the Endo, to Frankfurt. Not likely named for its ability to do a bumper-over-roof flip, the spacious Endo was designed at ED2, Toyota s European design studio in the South of France, which was also responsible for the company's redesigned Yaris minicar (below), with which it will share the spotlight.

Related:
First Shots of 2007 Toyota RAV4 [internal]

Nissan is bringing a new hatchback and two versions of its Micra minicar to Frankfurt, in the name of increasing the style and sportiness quotients of its subcompact line. The show will mark the debut of its new Note, a five-door hatch billed as a "family car for the enthusiast," meaning it'll have a sporty feel to offset young buyers' need for cup holders and baby seats. It'll come with a choice of two diesels and two gas engines, including a 1.6-liter mill it will share with (segue alert) two, specialty versions of its Micra minicar that will share the Frankfurt floodlamps, the 160SR (street racer?) — a performance-minded edition — and the C+C, a cabriolet.

Related:
Nissan Unveils Micra Cabrio [internal]