The new Fiesta will also receive a Mustang-worthy set of trim levels upon initial release (Studio, Style, Style Plus, Zetec, Zetec S, Titanium). Europeans will get to enjoy this, and more vacation, starting in October 2008. Americans will have to wait more than a year for the privilege (start saving those PTO hours). Just click on the LHD interior pic and dream. Press release below:

New Ford Fiesta

* All-new Fiesta developed in Europe for customers around the world
* Extends core Fiesta values of style, efficiency and value for money
* Dramatic exterior design and exciting interior styling, with high quality materials and bold use of colours
* Excellent driving quality blends sporty, confident handling with sophisticated ride
* Specially-tuned Electric Power Assist Steering offers low-speed steering ease with more direct driver feedback at higher speeds
* All-new Fiesta Zetec S model available from launch for driving enthusiasts
* Two all-new engines: ultra-low CO2 Fiesta ECOnetic, with target emissions of just 99 g/km, plus top-of-the-range 120PS 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT petrol unit
* Robust safety performance, with over 55 per cent of body structure made of high-strength steels
* Approximately 40 kilogrammes lighter than previous Fiesta, contributing to improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions
* Stiffer body structure and reduced vehicle weight delivers 'light-yet-solid' driving feel
* Intelligent Protection System with standard knee airbag - first in a Ford small car - and head-and-thorax side airbags, with optional safety curtain airbags plus an array of pedestrian protection features
* 'Big car' convenience features brought to small car segment, include Ford EasyFuel capless refuelling, keyless entry and 'Ford Power' start button
* Mobile phone-inspired entertainment system, plus sophisticated Human Machine Interface
* Maximum driver comfort with improved seating and reach and rake steering wheel adjustment
* Wide choice of series - Studio, Style, Style Plus, Zetec, Zetec S, Titanium - to suit all customer requirements, from sporty to sophisticated, affordable to luxury
* High level of standard equipment in all models includes power door mirrors
* All powertrains new or enhanced for greater efficiency across the range
* Projected annual reduction in CO2 emissions in Europe of over 11,000 tonnes versus previous Fiesta
* Low overall cost-of-ownership from higher fuel efficiency, lower insurance ratings and repair costs
* Three-door and five-door models available from October 2008

"Welcome to Fiesta - the new Ford.

This vehicle is very special to us in Ford of Europe and to our customers. Over the past 32 years, Fiesta has consistently been at the top of the list of Europe's best-selling cars.
Over 12 million Fiestas have found homes with customers over that time and the Fiesta name continues to carry an overwhelmingly positive image in all its markets, standing for style, efficiency, driving quality and value for money. Our new model is set to continue this success story and carry Fiesta forward to a new generation of car buyers.

But this completely new model marks something of a departure for Ford of Europe. In contrast to previous generations of Fiesta, this car has been conceived and developed by the European arm of Ford's global product development team to meet the demands and expectations of our customers around the world.

It is also the blueprint for future Ford global product development, bringing together Europe, the Americas and Asia where it will be tailored for each region and go on sale progressively between now and 2010.

I believe this is the most dramatic Fiesta since the very first model and it is the most complete and expressive interpretation yet of our kinetic design philosophy, echoing both inside and out the major elements of the exciting Verve Concept vehicles that inspired such a positive reaction around the world.

Of course, you would expect a new Ford to be great to drive and our engineers have worked hard to ensure that new Fiesta will deliver excellent driving quality. This is one of our core vehicle attributes, and one we have developed and applied consistently throughout the Ford of Europe range.

One of the development team's greatest achievements is that it has been able to make the new Fiesta stronger, safer and more comfortable, yet lighter and more fuel efficient than the car it replaces. An exceptionally rigid body structure means a robust crash protection, even before you include up to seven airbags available as part of new Fiesta's Intelligent Protection System.

Increased fuel efficiency and lower emissions are two qualities that our small car customers are looking for on a daily basis and new Fiesta will not disappoint. Chief amongst a range of efficiency improvements is the extension of our acclaimed Ford ECOnetic ultra-low CO2 range, with a new 1.6-litre ECOnetic Duratorq TDCi offering CO2 emissions of less than 100g/km, while each and every engine in the range has been revised and enhanced for greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

We're also introducing an all-new 1.6-litre Ti-VCT engine and a Zetec S model for driving enthusiasts, while a host of comfort and convenience features you would normally expect to find on our much larger vehicles combine to make new Fiesta truly a compelling choice.

We're immensely proud of the new Ford Fiesta, as the latest addition to Ford's increasingly successful line-up of new models for Europe, and as the template for future generations of vehicles developed from the outset for our customers around the world."

John Fleming, President and CEO, Ford of Europe
July 2008

All-New Ford Fiesta - Introduction

"Everything about the all-new Ford Fiesta is new - from the styling, materials and technologies to the core development and manufacturing processes that bring it to life. It represents our future, in more ways than one."

Marin Burela, Executive Director of Small Cars, Ford of Europe

The all-new Ford Fiesta is not just the most dramatic and distinctive Fiesta ever, it also marks a significant landmark in Ford's history as the first Fiesta to be developed for customers around the world and as the template for the company's future generations of global vehicles.

Since the very first Fiesta was launched in 1976, over 12 million have been sold, with over 400,000 customers in 2007 (103,000 in the UK alone) proving the enduring popularity of the model's style, efficiency and value for money.

The all-new Fiesta is set to extend these values, while appealing to a new generation of small car buyers with its mix of kinetic design and latest big car technology. Three- and five-door all-new Fiestas will begin rolling off production lines in Europe in summer 2008, with regionally-tailored models on sale in Asia, South Africa, Australia and the Americas by 2010.

Developed for Customers Globally

The all-new Fiesta is the first product of Ford's new Global Product Development System (GPDS) and has been designed and developed to meet the differing needs of customers as diverse as Western and Eastern Europe, North America, China, Australia and South Africa.

Extensive research by Ford in these regions provided the basis for the new GPDS process, which will dictate the future of Ford product development. All-new Fiesta is also the first product of Ford Motor Company CEO, Alan Mulally's 'One Ford' vision of a single, global company designing and building cars for a single, global customer base, not divided by regional or national borders.

"It's an incredibly exciting project," says Marin Burela. "All-new Fiesta is a landmark moment for Ford. It's our most significant global vehicle project since the Model T and heralds the future for Ford product development."

Designed for a New Generation

All-new Fiesta is the latest interpretation of Ford's kinetic design philosophy, exuding presence and individuality in a way that will appeal to a new generation of buyers.

Building on the exciting momentum of the Verve Concept and latest-generation production models like the Mondeo and Focus, all-new Fiesta brings the modern and dynamic Ford of Europe family look to the small-car segment.

It wears the distinctive, bold Ford 'face' including the signature lower grille and large, centred Ford oval badge that characterises both the Verve Concept and other modern Ford vehicles. Details such as chrome and brightwork accents, sleek, wraparound headlamps, bold, pronounced wheel arch lips and a strong bodyside beltline create a dynamic look, even when stationary, while a distinctive rear view is formed by a sweeping roofline that finishes in a small spoiler, with dramatic, honeycomb tail lamps.

This impact continues on the inside, with courageous use of dynamic lines, full surfaces and bold graphics, with an ambience ranging from sporty to sophisticated, created by the careful use of colours and materials in different contrasts Zetec S incorporates snowboard and street fashion designs and Zetec and Titanium feature high contrast dark gloss surfaces and high-tech metallic accents.

Executive Director of Design, Martin Smith comments: "This is the most complete, expressive and exciting Fiesta Ford has ever produced, inside and out. To me, it is a car that evokes an instant emotional response - 'I want one' - before you even get near it."

Commitment to Driving Excellence

Buying a Fiesta has always meant owning a great car to drive and all-new Fiesta is set to extend that reputation even further, with key changes and an all-new 'Zetec S' model in the range.

Standing on virtually the same footprint, but 40 kilogrammes lighter than its predecessor, all-new Fiesta delivers a 'light-yet-solid' handling precision, enhanced by the first use of an Electric Power Assist Steering system in a European Ford.

An all-new Fiesta Zetec S model will be available at launch, with a new, 120 PS 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT petrol engine bringing performance to the heart of the Fiesta range

At the same time, a new level of driving refinement echoes all-new Fiesta's visual sophistication and is set to raise the standard for small cars for road, powertrain and wind noise isolation.

Ford's commitment to driving quality will feature in all-new Fiestas, whether built in Cologne, Germany, Valencia, Spain, or Nanjing, China, but with each tuned to suit regional driving conditions and customer preferences, under Ford's global engineering approach.

"We wanted to make sure that driving quality remains at the heart of all-new Fiesta - we had to ensure that the driving experience delivered on the promise made by its dynamic kinetic design", says Dieter Schwarz, Vehicle Engineering Manager for global Fiesta development. "I am confident we have fulfilled that promise."

Stronger, Safer, Lighter

Under all-new Fiestas' stylish exterior is a robust body structure, crafted from high-strength steels, to protect occupants in the event of a collision.

More than 55 per cent of the body structure is high-strength steel, making all-new Fiesta approximately 10 per cent stiffer torsionally than its predecessor and providing an exceptionally rigid safety cell for all occupants.

Supporting this is all-new Fiestas' Intelligent Protection System, offering up to seven airbags, including the first use of a driver's knee-airbag in a small Ford car.

This intense focus on safety extends to those outside the car, with an array of pedestrian protection features, from the shape and structure of all-new Fiestas' front bumper, bonnet and windscreen, to small details such as the shape of its headlamps and wiper blades.

"All-new Fiesta is a clear example that making a safe car doesn't mean making a large car, or a heavy car. There is no need to compromise between safety and good design or driving character", says Bernd Liesenfelder, Body Engineering Manager for Ford of Europe.

Big Car Features and Clear Series Choice

All-new Fiesta brings an array of 'big car' premium features to the small car segment, which customers will notice even before they turn the key for the first time.

All-new Fiestas' striking centre console features a mobile phone-inspired entertainment system that is styled very differently to traditional automotive switchgear, to provide a completely intuitive interface.

Keyless entry, combined with a 'Ford Power' start button, adds to the all-new Fiesta premium experience, with other 'surprise and delight' options available including automatic, projector headlamps, automatic windscreen wipers, Ford's sophisticated Human Machine Interface with large 89 mm (3.5 inch) screen and cruise control.

The driving position is given a 'cockpit' feel, with improved position and adjustment to both the driver's seat and steering wheel, while passengers receive more personal and luggage space overall than the previous Fiesta, despite the stylish, sweeping exterior profile. Stowage space abounds from a boot capable of swallowing 295 litres, to ingenious storage areas throughout the cabin, including charging points for mobile phones and MP3 players.

While all-new Fiesta has been designed and engineered to meet a wide range of customer requirements, a clear series choice makes selecting the right model a simple task, with options from feisty to frugal, ultra-modern to traditional and a comprehensive list of standard features at all levels.

A simple six-series range provides maximum choice from the affordable and well-equipped Studio and the popular Style and Style Plus, or the modern, techno style of Zetec, Zetec S and Titanium.

A high level of equipment provides items such as power door mirrors as standard across the range. Completing the premium feel are features on Zetec and Titanium, such as the Aesthetic Lighting Pack, which bathes the centre console, gearshift area and passenger side dashboard area in a soft red glow.

"You immediately feel the quality of a bigger car that will be at the core of the all-new Fiesta ownership experience. When we consider all the comfort and convenience features in the new Fiesta range, we think of it not as our new small car, but our smallest large car", says Giovanni De Pasca, Driving Environment and Occupant Package Manager for Ford of Europe.

New, Revised and Enhanced Powertrains

All-new Fiesta combines newly-developed, revised and enhanced powertrains with its overall weight reduction to deliver better performance, fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions.

All-new Fiesta's engine range comprises four 16-valve Duratec petrol and two Duratorq TDCi diesel engine choices, refined to deliver a potential annual saving of over 11,000 tonnes of CO2 across Europe, versus the previous Fiesta.

A key development is the new Fiesta ECOnetic, offering the impressive torque of the 1.6-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi engine with target CO2 emissions of just 99 grams per kilometre (g/km), achieved through careful engine calibration, lowered suspension and aerodynamic improvements and a no-maintenance, coated Diesel Particulate Filter (c-DPF). The sub-100g Fiesta ECOnetic joins the sub-140 g/km Ford Mondeo and sub-120 g/km Ford Focus ECOnetic models as Ford achieves its commitment to deliver a range of ultra-low CO2 models at the heart of its product portfolio.

Other Duratorq TDCi engines also benefit from refinements to their state-of-the-art common rail injection systems to deliver enhanced fuel economy, lower CO2 emissions and improved performance.

Driving enthusiasts are not forgotten, thanks to an all-new, 120PS, 1.6-litre Duratec Ti-VCT petrol engine, available in the new Fiesta Zetec S and Titanium models. Despite its feisty character and 20 extra horsepower, the new Duratec Ti-VCT is even more fuel efficient than the 100 PS, 1.6-litre engine in the previous Fiesta. The Fiesta Zetec S can accelerate from zero to 0-62 mph in 9.9 seconds, while still achieving a combined fuel economy of 47.9 mpg and CO2 emissions of 139 g/km.

Three other 16-valve Duratec petrol engines are offered for all-new Fiesta, in 1.25- and 1.4-litres and outputs from 60 PS to 96 PS, with an automatic transmission option available on the Duratec 1.4-litre.
An added feature on all-new Fiesta is Stall Prevention, designed to assist in low speed manoeuvres by altering the engine's ignition profile to increase the amount of available torque and tuned for each individual powertrain.

Overall, all-new Fiesta achieves a 22 per cent improvement in 0-62 mph acceleration and 14 per cent better in-gear acceleration in passing manoeuvres, versus its predecessor, thanks to its reduced weight and improved powertrain calibration.

"Thanks to its mix of careful calibration and latest powertrain technology, all-new Fiesta is a tailored driving experience, carefully and precisely tuned to respond to all drivers and driving styles," says Joerg Beyer, Chief Carline Engineer for all-new Fiesta.

Low Cost of Ownership

It is not just in its contemporary styling and new technologies that all-new Fiesta will be attractive to a discerning and demanding generation of customers - extensive thought and effort has ensured it still stands for value for money and reliability.

Helping owners minimise running costs was key, with fuel economy at the top of the list. All-new Fiesta boasts increased efficiency across the range, with owners of the 1.4-litre Duratorq TDCi saving approximately a tankful of fuel a year - 45 litres over 9,300 miles - through efficiency improvements alone.

Insurance premiums and repair costs are kept low by an intelligent approach to manufacturing. Bake-hardened steel on front wings offers better resistance to low-speed bumps and scrapes, while headlamps and tail lamps are positioned high, away from potential impacts and specially shaped 'crash cans' are designed as sacrificial parts, collapsing predictably in an impact to prevent more extensive damage and higher repair costs.

Durability has been assessed at each stage in its development, with a total of 2.2 million miles of on-road testing and over 300,000 test operations on doors, bonnet and tailgate in real world environmental conditions.

All-new Fiesta is manufactured with sophisticated techniques more commonly found in big-car production, all part of delivering higher quality than ever for customers across the world.

"All-new Fiesta proves how you can make a small car affordable and reliable, without compromising style, quality or features", concludes Joerg Beyer. "That's the key to making all-new Fiesta truly desirable."

32 Years of Success

For the past 32 years, Ford Fiesta has provided practicality and driving pleasure to millions of customers across Europe. From its origins in 1976, as the product of a mission to build a new European small car with modern features and a respectable price tag, the Fiesta name became ingrained in European culture and is now known across a variety of markets in Asia and South America. Fiesta is a brand that has attracted a loyal and dedicated following.

Fiesta has always been at the forefront of Ford's commitment to driving quality and innovative technology. In 1983, the Mk II Fiesta was one of the most economical cars in the world and the only vehicle of its size to offer diesel power. In 1989 Fiesta introduced anti-lock braking to the small car market and in 1994 a driver's airbag came as standard.

Accolades have abounded for the car during its lifetime, from rallying and motorsport success to prestigious titles such as 'Car of the Year 1989', 'Best Small Car in the World', 'Smartest Small Car', and 'Best City Car'.

[Source: Ford]

In a remarkably candid statement revealing where dealerships actually make their money, Poncho Redfern, president of San Francisco-based Thomason Auto Group, said

"...you can't outrun it in F&I. There's only so much you can honestly earn in that department. This wreaks havoc on the bottom line. We see people with $10,000 in negative equity.

A dealer does not have enough room to help the customer out of it."

The popular VW-Audi fourbanger is available only in SEL trim level, available with either a 6-speed manual ($25,990) or the 6-speed DSG ($27,090). The SEL is loaded top-to-bottom with every feature you'd find on the top-level Jetta. While we don't have a price yet on the TDI, we think we've figured out how VW is going to make it price-competitive. If you stroll through the features list, you'll notice the TDI doesn't get the dual-zone climate, the 17-inch alloys, premium sound or other features as standard. We're guessing the price of the TDI is going to fall somewhere between SE and SEL trim in the $23-$26K range. Still interested?

[Price, Spces via Motive Forums]

Aside from the obvious 'holy-crap-that's-crazy' bodywork, this car features details rarely — if ever — seen on cars of any era, much less new ones. First, and the one we love the most, is the Pitot-static tube mounted on the roof. It takes engineers to decide the best way to determine high speeds is to measure stagnation against ambient pressure. The car also has an internally regulated, kinetically charged lap watch for visual measurement, even though it can record up to 40 laps of telemetry data for analysis after a run. Traction control comes at three different levels: attentive nanny, annoyed boss, and teenage babysitter, so you can go digging into the deepest recesses of the cookie jar. There's just so much good stuff packed into this car press release. we just hope it's not some kind of ultimate vaporware experiment. That would make us very, very sad. We still don't know what this rig costs, but we assume it's in the range of "If you have to ask you don't want to know." Business and technical press release below. (Thanks Martin!)

FORMAL PRESS RELEASE

After three months of tests and trials Spadaconcept - the
Italian design studio founded by Paolo Spada (former designer at
Smart and Honda) together with his father Ercole, (former chief
designer at Zagato and BMW), Domiziano Boschi (former Mc Kinsey) and
Wojtek Sokolowski - has launched the production of its supercar, the
Spada TS Codatronca. With this car Spadaconcept cherishes and revives
the important heritage of Ercole Spada and the philosophy which
characterized each of his creations. The company's vision is centered
on "functional design", which, according to Ercole Spada, means to
allow functionality of an object to express itself through its shape.
Following this vision Spadaconcept came up with a genuinely breaking
product, something bold an daring. Far from creating a show car where
anything is allowed, Spadaconcept has worked within strict
feasibility constraints in order to reach the quality standards of a
niche, handcrafted production, maximizing performance by introducing
aerodynamic lines such to mould a light and essential body. The
result is an extremely stable and manageable car, able to achieve
good racing performances by exploiting at the best the power of its
engine, with an original and nimble shape and essential but elegant
interiors.

The first version, named TS (Turismo Sportivo), is a car with an
aspired engine of more than 600-horse with race performances. Despite
the focus at Spadaconcept wasn't on "pure" power but rather on
aerodynamics, lightness and handling, this car can still reach more
than 340 km/h and complies with the FIA GT1 regulations. Care for
environmental issues has resulted in SpadaVettureSport's decision to
add to the menu an ad hoc "converter kit" which allows fueling the
car with E85 green fuel, with a slight increase in torque and power.
With this new sport car Spadaconcept aims at reviving the
philosophy that inspired Ercole Spada's past models, in an attempt to combine aesthetics with functionality and racing performances. This
new model is the latest evolutionary step of the truncated tail -
"coda tronca" in Italian. The typical and aerodynamic shape which
Spada had introduced with the Alfa Romeo Giulietta SZ, TZ1 and TZ2 in
the 60's - gives this new car unique and nimble lines which bring in
lightness and aerodynamics improving performances.
TS Codatronca, will be produced and marketed by
SpadaVettureSport - a company created and controlled by Spadaconcept
- in collaboration with a team of selected technical, industrial and
commercial partners. SpadaVettureSport has aggregated the highest
profile resources around this project by establishing strategic
alliances mainly with small firms located in the district of Turin
with great past histories and amazing skills. These partners have
great tradition and specialization and allow SpadaVettureSport to
combine the "best of breed" in technology with the tradition and
"saper fare" - i.e. the Italian for know how - of Italian small
firms. The industrial partner FS Group (a firm based near Turin, who
has already realized prototypes for Mercedes, Smart, Range Rover)
will realize the body, using material supplied by Elantas Camattini,
and PPG. The partner Italtecnica (a small firm located in Cambiano,
near Turin, already involved in the tuning of Paris-Dakar and Le mans
cars for Peugeot) will work on braking system, suspensions and engine
upgrade, Sparco - the manufacturer of tuning products based in Turin
- will supply seats and other interior items, Pirelli and OZ Racing
will provide respectively tires and wheels.
For the launch of this supercar SpadaVettureSport has signed a
co-branding and co-marketing agreement with AZNOM, a small company
based in Monza operating in the production of accessories and luxury
items, who will realise and market a line of amenities with the
Codatronca brand. The agreement signed by SpadaVettureSport and AZNOM
has a long term perspective and involves joint efforts to approach
the market.
The Codatronca TS version will be presented in world première
next spring in Montecarlo. According to SpadaVettureSport the TS
version is a first step which will be shortly followed by others
upcoming. The more powerful TSS version - Turismo Super Sportivo -
which is already under test at SpadaVettureSport, will be launched at
the end of 2008. In order to realise this unique model Spadaconcept
and SpadaVettureSport have put in place a manufacturing system such
as to meet the quality standards typical of niche, handcrafted
production.
In the present of Spadaconcept there is a strong focus on the
core business - consulting and design of niche cars, motorbikes and
accessories like helmets, seats, etc. - but looking to the future,
the company has started to explore new fields, especially bio-ethanol
powered cars and it is currently working in the development of an
Environmental Friendly Vehicle (EFV).

TECHNICAL PRESS RELEASE

Spada Vetture Sport is glad to announce the manufacturing of the
brand new Codatronca TS . Disclosed on April 24th during the Top
Marques Monaco ( The Luxury and Supercar Show) as a world
premiérè, collecting a big success from the international press
and also from the crowd of people present at the event.
Discovered during the Top Marques opening by the ex-car driver and
F1® Champion Damon Hill it was elected most beautiful car of the
exhibition also by the prestigious New York Time daily Magazine.

Codatronca it's born by the pencil of Ercole and Paolo Spada, the
guide lines that has characterized the project of these new car
are: aerodynamics, lightness, and pleasure of driving. The same
guide lines that portrayed most of the project of Ercole Spada,
like the mythical tz1 and tz2, were characterize by the back
shape called "codatronca".

The Codatronca TS is proposed with different engine that can
works, in the states were it's present, with BioFuel E85. The
engine has mecchanic and electronic components developed
respecting the specification of the project needs, in this way
we've obtained from the V8, in aluminium of more than 7lt with a
dry sump, with a power of 630hp at 6500 rpm, with an incredible
torque of 668Nm at 4800 rpm.

The power is transmitted to the ground by the rear wheels thanks
to a 6 gear close ratio transmission with a specific range also at the 6th
gear to the limit of 7000 rpm that push the codatronca at
340Km/h with an acceleration from 0 to 100Km/h of only 3,4 sec.
The designers gave more importance to the pleasure of driving
instead of speed record, in the perfect style of the gentleman
driver.
For support that performance, the codatronca is fitted with a
traction control on 3 level of action that progressively excludes
only the traction control and after another push leaving the car
to the bare control of its lucky owner.
For a better check of the car's data, Codatronca has an equipment
that can record since 80 hours of telemetry on track, with 40
active channel (steering angle, g meter longitudinal and lateral,
sinlge speed for each tyre, lap timer and gps tracking system for
track trajectories and lots more)

The chassis is a light and stiff aluminium tubular with a roll bar
cage combined for offer the maximum protection also when it's
driven on track. The bodywork is made of light and resistant fibre
that cover the chassis and the mechanics parts.

The suspension are completely adjustable like the one of the
racing cars. A big news is represented by the possibility of set
up the anti-roll bar on the front and on the rear separately on 4
level of hardness: rain, soft, medium and hard with an on-board
regulation.
In that way the wheel can work at its best and the suspension in
every condition, especially when the car is on track due to the
selection of harden or soften the axles for a perfect grip.
The wheels are the Pirelli Pzero Corsa, with size 285/35/19'' for
the front wheels and 345/35/19'' for the back wheels.
The rims are of 19'' by Oz, these were chosen to assure that the
shoulder tyres transmit best the drive feelings of this fantastic
tyres.
The braking system is Brembo with racing 8 pistons aluminium
calipers on the front with discs of 380mm and with 4 pistons
aluminium calipers with discs of 355mm on the rear; governed by an
Abs system of the latest generation.

The aerodynamics shape of the car is represented by a low value of
cx, measures are a length of 4659mm, a width of 1942mm and a
height of 1235mm. The weight is very low, just 1360Kg for a unique
pleasure of drive.

The Codatronca® shape of the back gave the possibility to the
designer, to create a perfect 400 litre trunk, flawless for two
people, and customizable with a suitcase set purposely made by
Aznom srl. The cockpit is bright and roomy and it's provided of a
technological air-conditioner system and a perfect acoustic, the
back view is assured by a rear view camera.

Inside we can find the watch designed by Meccanicheveloci with
automatic recharge, a taste of the Italian's craftmenship..

The car is available at SpadaVettureSport in a limited number
every year.

While this particular car was not equipped with the requisite manufacturers plates, it was sporting a GM parking lot tag. Our sources tell us it belongs to an employee out at the Milford proving grounds but we can neither confirm or deny that. All we know is those vinyl stripes definitely make the already hot-to-trot G8 even more of a looker.

Though the outside is iffy, the insides aren't bad, and the sound system choices are respectable, with a 360W Rockford Acoustics designed 8 speaker system, 7" touchscreen, and 6 months of free Sirius radio. We don't want to bust on the Galants too much because that would be mean, but at this point, prettying up the Galant is like putting lipstick on a pig. In case you were wondering why there are only pics of two cars, we're assuming the Galant Sport (sans V6) would have put the gathered masses to sleep.

We can't help but look on it with a little disappointment though, all that work and no additional oomph from the V6. Style has been thumping substance pretty regularly in the crossover market lately, so we're not really surprised. Doesn't make it excusable though.

CHICAGO, Feb. 5, 2008 - Ford is providing still more sizzle for America's best-selling mid-size crossover, introducing a new factory-customized model - the 2009 Edge Sport.

"The new Ford Edge Sport is designed to instantly appeal to crossover customers who want a sportier custom look and feel," said John Felice, general manager, Ford Division. "This specialty design reflects the growing popularity of personalization and more customers' interest in industry shows like the annual Hot Import Nights around the country and the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show in Las Vegas."

The Sport model - which joins the SE, SEL and Limited models in the range - makes the Ford Edge the first vehicle in its segment to offer a customized model. Its modern, athletic design, flexible package and unique features like VistaRoof™ and SYNC helped sell 130,125 Edge units in 2007, making it the nation's top-selling crossover. The new Edge Sport model will further distinguish it from competitors.

Edge Becomes Even Sportier

Edge Sport stands on even bolder, available 22-inch polished aluminum wheels or the standard 20-inch premium painted wheels with branded center hubs. Low-profile, 40-series Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires complete the look, giving Edge Sport an aggressive stance.

This marks the first time that a 22-inch wheel-and-tire combination has been offered on a crossover. The eight-piece Edge Sport body kit includes a unique front air dam, side skirts, lower door caps and a rear skirt, all finished in body color, instead of the dark lower on other Edge models. The front air dam features integrated fog lamps and a lower grille insert. These elements combine with the unique wheels and tires to provide a sporty personality.

Details, like custom Sport badging, polished dual exhaust tips emerging from openings in the rear skirt and "foundry gray" smoked headlamp and taillamp lenses, add to its purposeful look.

In addition to lustrous Sport Blue paint on the model highlighted at the Chicago Auto Show, Edge Sport will be available in Ebony, Brilliant Silver and Redfire. Inside, dark gray leather seats feature unique suede-feel patterned inserts in a combination of light and dark gray. Contrasting, light gray stitching gives the seats a premium appeal. The contrasting stitched leather also is used on the Edge Sport steering wheel and shift knob.

Edge Sport is further distinguished by an appealing etched metal effect on the instrument panel center console.

"While custom-made to appeal to customers, Edge Sport is smart business," said Mark Fields, president of The Americas. "The aftermarket industry has grown to a $40 billion annual business, and crossovers are the fastest-growing vehicle segment in the U.S. We want customers who crave something special to know that Ford can customize their Edge - right at the factory."

Toyota Unveils All-New Corolla Matrix At 2007 SEMA Show

2009 MATRIX PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

POWERTRAIN
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine
132 hp @6,000 rpm
128 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm
Five-speed manual and Four-speed automatic transmissions

2.4-liter four-cylinder engine
158 hp @ 6,000 rpm
162 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,000 rpm
Five-speed manual and four and five-speed automatic transmissions

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 173.0 (S and XRS grades)
171.9 (Standard grade and S all-wheel-drive grade)
Overall Width: 69.5
Overall Height: 61.4 (XRS and S all-wheel-drive grades)
61.0 (Standard grade and S)
Wheelbase: 102.4
Ground clearance: 5.3 (S and XRS grades)
5.8 (Standard grade)

CADILLAC CTS SPORT

As the new 2008 Cadillac CTS sedan garners critical acclaim, the CTS Sport concept puts a unique twist on this hot new luxury sedan. The CTS Sport concept suggests a customization theme emphasizing the car's performance character. The show car includes new front and rear fascias, a modified hood, rear spoiler and 20-inch wheels Recaro sport seats highlight the cabin. Performance is derived from a production-spec 304-hp 3.6L Direct Injection V-6 that exhales through a Corsa cat-back exhaust system with 3.5-inch outlets.

Vehicle highlights:

• CTS Sport concept
• 3.6L V-6 with direct injection
• Modified hood with wire mesh inserts
• Unique front and rear fascias with carbon fiber and wire mesh inserts
• Carbon-fiber front fender extractors
• Export-model taillamps and CHMSL with clear lenses
• Unique rear deck spoiler
• Headlamps with unique housing finish
• Roof-mounted OnStar antenna
• Brake ducting with LED lighting
• Polished, forged 20-inch wheels
• High-performance brakes with painted calipers and drilled/slotted rotors
• Carbon-fiber interior trim plates
• BlueConnect Bluetooth integrated into the headliner
• Recaro sport seats with leather trim
• Corsa cat-back exhaust with rectangular outlet tips and wire mesh inserts

# # #

CADILLAC ESCALADE SPORT

The Cadillac Escalade Sport concept showcases even more of the dramatic presence and power that has made Escalade the sales and image leader among large luxury SUVs. The Escalade Sport showcases a small-block V-8 that produces approximately 550 horsepower and is backed by a heavy-duty 6L80 six-speed transmission. Modified front and rear fascias, along with enhancements including 24-inch wheels, a lowered ride height and special aero rockers provide the Escalade Sport with a distinctive look.

Vehicle highlights:

• Escalade Sport concept
• Small-block V-8 with approximately 550 horsepower
• 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission
• Unique air induction and exhaust systems; underhood cover
• Sport-tuned suspension with two-inch-lowered ride height
• High-performance brake package
• Modified front and rear fascia with new upper and lower grilles
• Fog lamp housing
• New roof rack
• New side air extractors with lights
• New hood
• Retractable side steps with aero rockers
• Dual rear exhaust Corsa cat-back exhaust with new tips
• Twenty-four-inch, forged alloy wheels
• "Sport" badging
• Recaro sport bucket seats in first and second rows; third-row seat deleted
• Leather-wrapped upper instrument panel, console and upper door panels
• Specific gauge cluster graphics
• Aluminum cargo floor with runners and tie-downs
• Unique finish on trim plates
• Modified center console with new shifter and shift knob
• Billet aluminum pedals
• European-spec clear taillamps

# # #

CADILLAC CTS SPORT

As the new 2008 Cadillac CTS sedan garners critical acclaim, the CTS Sport concept puts a unique twist on this hot new luxury sedan. The CTS Sport concept suggests a customization theme emphasizing the car's performance character. The show car includes new front and rear fascias, a modified hood, rear spoiler and 20-inch wheels Recaro sport seats highlight the cabin. Performance is derived from a production-spec 304-hp 3.6L Direct Injection V-6 that exhales through a Corsa cat-back exhaust system with 3.5-inch outlets.

Vehicle highlights:

• CTS Sport concept
• 3.6L V-6 with direct injection
• Modified hood with wire mesh inserts
• Unique front and rear fascias with carbon fiber and wire mesh inserts
• Carbon-fiber front fender extractors
• Export-model taillamps and CHMSL with clear lenses
• Unique rear deck spoiler
• Headlamps with unique housing finish
• Roof-mounted OnStar antenna
• Brake ducting with LED lighting
• Polished, forged 20-inch wheels
• High-performance brakes with painted calipers and drilled/slotted rotors
• Carbon-fiber interior trim plates
• BlueConnect Bluetooth integrated into the headliner
• Recaro sport seats with leather trim
• Corsa cat-back exhaust with rectangular outlet tips and wire mesh inserts

# # #

CHEVROLET EQUINOX SPORT BRINGS EXCITEMENT TO THE SUV SEGMENT

DETROIT - Chevrolet announced the new 2008 Equinox Sport, a performance-oriented variant of the popular compact SUV.

It has an aggressive stance and a sporting nature, thanks to a lowered suspension, bold 18-inch wheels, a powerful, 263-horsepower (196 kW) DOHC engine - backed up with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual tap up/tap down control - a tuned exhaust and unique exterior appointments. Details such as body color fascias and the elimination of the roof rack contribute to the sleek design, making the Equinox Sport an uncompromising performance vehicle.

"The Equinox Sport embodies all of the value-driven performance ingredients that have made Chevrolet the brand for performance enthusiasts of all walks of life," said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. "Better still, customers don't have to sacrifice the versatility they expect from the Equinox - they simply get an SUV that hauls their friends and cargo with head-turning style."

The 2008 Equinox Sport is scheduled to arrive at Chevrolet dealerships in the third quarter of 2007. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models are available.

Design details
Using Chevrolet's popular Equinox SUV as the foundation, the Equinox Sport delivers a performance-inspired appearance, with body colored front and rear fascias and a body color grille cross bar. The front and rear fascias have trapezoidal design cues; the front fascia uses silver-painted trapezoidal air inlets, while the rear fascia features dual chrome trapezoidal-shaped exhaust outlets.

The Equinox Sport's performance-oriented look is enhanced by eliminating the roof rack, although it is offered as an option. Also, 18-inch flangeless, high-polished forged aluminum five-spoke wheels, mounted on P235/50R18 tires, complement an aggressive stance.

Inside, the Equinox Sport has standard all-Ebony trim and appointments all its own. New seats with bolsters that enhance lateral support during quick cornering maneuvers are standard, with perforated leather-covered versions available. It also has a leather-wrapped, four-spoke steering wheel and specific instruments, including a 140-mph speedometer. The shifter also is unique to the Equinox Sport, as it is a J-gate design that enables precise control of the six-speed transmission's fully automatic or manual tap-up/tap-down features.

Standard features also include those for which the Equinox is already known and appreciated: five-passenger seating with a Multi-Flex, split-folding rear seat, flat-folding front passenger seat, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power windows, air conditioning, tilt steering, rear liftgate with defogger and washer/wiper, and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with six-speaker audio system. XM Satellite Radio and remote vehicle starting also are standard. Available options include a power sunroof, Pioneer seven-speaker audio system and OnStar with Turn-by-Turn Navigation.

Performance
GM's high-feature 3.6L V-6 powers the Equinox Sport. It is a DOHC engine with variable valve timing that delivers 263 horsepower (196 kW)* and 250 lb.-ft of torque (342 Nm)* - a 42-percent power increase over the Equinox LT. The 3.6L engine is paired with a new Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic that provides an excellent balance between performance and fuel economy. This powertrain combination delivers performance that would be the envy of many sports cars, with an estimated 0-60 mph time of less than seven seconds.

The Equinox Sport's underhood acumen is complemented with a performance-tuned suspension. A long, 112.5-inch (2,857 mm) wheelbase and wide, 61.8-inch (1,569 mm) track give the Equinox a stable, confident road feel, while the Sport's lowered ride height, specific shock tuning, control arms and larger, solid stabilizer bars add to its more responsive, sporting driving experience. The overall ride height is reduced by about 1 inch (25 mm).

The front suspension has a MacPherson strut design with new control arms and stiffer, hydraulic bushings and slightly stiffer springs. The rear suspension features a four-link independent layout with stiffer bushings.

GM's innovative StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, front and rear disc brakes with four-channel ABS and tire pressure monitoring system all are standard on the Equinox Sport - as they are on all Equinox models for 2007. On AWD models, the automatic all-wheel drive system has no buttons to push. It engages automatically when wheel slip is detected.

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.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 75 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 327,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2005, 9.17 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 operates one of the world's leading finance companies, GMAC Financial Services, which offers automotive, residential and commercial financing and insurance. 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.

*Pending SAE certification.

Related:
Spy Photos: 2007 Chevrolet Equinox SS [internal]