Toyota Motor Corp will be releasing a new petrol electric hybrid in Japan while the Prius will compete with Hyundai Motor Co in Korea. Toyota hopes to sell 36,000 of its new Sai hybrid sedan, Toyota’s goal being one million hybrid cars a year globally after 2010.

The Sai is Toyota’s second hybrid-only car, this car is a redesign of the Lexus HS250 hybrid. The Sai is based on a concept derived from the Japanese word sai-which means "talent" when written as "" and "coloration" when written as ""-as a hybrid-only sedan "combining advanced talent and multi-color sophistication".

The Sai is based on the Lexus HS250h hybrid, a vehicle designed for people who want a more premium hybrid experience than they would get in the Toyota Prius. The Sai would seem to fit somewhere in between. It offers the same powerplant as the HS, but not quite as many luxury features. It's basically an HS with different nose, tail and interior detailing.

The Toyota Sai Hybrid features a gasoline-electric hybrid system with a 2.4-liter engine for outstanding fuel efficiency and use of Ecological Plastic for approximately 60% of the interior surface area. The Sai features the Toyota Hybrid System (THS) II combining a 2.4-liter Atkinson cycle combustion engine with an electric motor and a reduction gear. The Toyota Sai Hybrid uses a 2.4-liter petrol engine generating just under 150 horsepower, and up to 187 Nm of torque. It is mated to a strong electric motor, powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery, which produces an additional 140 hp and up to 270 Nm of torque. The Toyota Sai Hybrid powertrain is designed to utilize the two generators efficiently, giving the driver up to 185 hp at any given time.

An exhaust heat recovery system uses exhaust gas to heat the engine, thus shortening engine-warming time and contributing to greatly improved fuel efficiency, especially when outside temperatures are low.

LED headlights conserve electric power and consequently reduce power-generation requirements on the engine.

In addition to Standard Driving Mode, which balances fuel efficiency and power, drivers can also select Eco-Drive Mode, which prioritizes fuel efficiency by moderating driving force relative to accelerator operation and putting the air conditioner into a low energy-consumption mode, and Electric Vehicle (EV) Drive Mode, which uses the electric motor only, resulting in extremely quite cruising and zero emissions.

A Hybrid System Indicator that shows real-time driving status and an Eco Driving Indicator that lights up to signify fuel-efficient vehicle operation provide visual support to the driver.

The ESPO1 system, which encourages and rewards environmentally considerate driving, enables drivers to gain extra enjoyment.

G-BOOK mX, TMC's advanced telematics service, assesses environmentally considerate driving and awards points to driver; mastery of eco-driving can be determined according to rate of points gained each month

Programs that allow drivers to make donations to charities using points received, that rank fuel efficiency of nationwide Sai ESPO users, and other fun incentives to encourage drivers to drive in environmentally considerate ways, are available

Toyota is also sending its brand to South Korea where the Hyundai Kia partnership dominate. The Prius and Camry hybrids will be first and joining them will be the petrol version of the Camry and the RAV4.

Toyota Executive Vice President Yukitoshi Funo told a news conference, “The introduction of the Toyota brand into South Korea is aimed to meet the diversifying needs of consumers in this growing market,”

“We intend to make every effort to contribute to South Korean society and earn a loyal following.”

December the seventh is the release date for the Toyota Sai retailing at 3.38 million yen ($40,250), the Lexus HS250 is priced at 3.96 million yen ($47,159).

The Sai is expected to have a consumption rate of 4.34 liters per 100 km. At this stage Toyota has no plans to export the Sai, preferring to concentrate on the home market.

Dodge today pulled the cover off the newest special-edition model of the 2010 Viper SRT10 lineup. The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is a turn-key, non-street legal race car that is slated to make its on-track debut in the summer of 2010.

The Dodge Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the original Viper racing entry, the GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. It also posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 1999 – the first for a production-based American car.

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will make its on-track debut in July 2010 in a newly developed spec series called the Dodge Viper Cup, which will be sanctioned by the existing Viper Racing League. Each vehicle in the new series must be the new Viper ACR-X.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, introduced in 2003, delivered the next chapter with its coupe-shaped carbon/Kevlar body and a track-ready chassis, based on the Dodge Viper SRT10. The Viper Competition Coupe has continued the on-track prowess by capturing the 2004 SCCA Speed World Challenge GT title, championships in Formula D Drifting series in 2004 and 2006 and the British GT Championship in 2007 and 2008.

The Viper SRT10 ACR-X is designed to compete in the Viper Racing League, Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association events.

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper ACR (American Club Racer) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V10, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage, while the weight is lightened by a full 160 pounds (versus the standard production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

In what will be the final year of production for the current generation Viper, the ACR-X is the third limited, special-edition model to be introduced by Dodge. ““We’re going to make 2010 the most exciting year for Viper yet with specially developed cars for the street and the track,” added Gilles. “The ACR-X is targeted at road-racing enthusiasts who want to successfully compete in our ultimate American sports car.”

Last month, the SRT team used a testing session at Laguna Seca raceway to shake down the Viper ACR-X for the first time. Behind the wheel was professional driver Kuno Wittmer from the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship series, who was able to run consistent 1:31.00 lap times around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. Wittmer’s lap times were more than 3 seconds faster than the street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR that holds the production car track record at Laguna Seca raceway.

Two races per weekend for five weekends will make up the 10-race 2010 Dodge Viper Cup schedule which includes July 9-11 at Virginia International Raceway; August 14-15 at Hallett Raceway; September 11-12 at Pocono Raceway; October 1-3 at Miller Motorsports Park and October 22-24 at Daytona International Speedway.

A contingency program sponsored by Dodge Motorsports and Mopar will pay out more than $200,000 during 2010. Payouts for each race are in cash and Mopar vouchers come as credit toward purchase of Mopar parts and accessories.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will be approximately $110,000. Production is slated to begin in Spring 2010.

It was built for David Fenn, racer and huge fan of NSX, to enter the last round of Britcar championship at Brands Hatch on the 7th November.

“The uniqueness and advanced technology involved in this project presented several new challenges and we are pleased to debut this exciting car at the last event of the 2009 season,” says John Danby, Team Principal.

Apparently 5th Gear presenter Vicki Butler-Henderson will drive the debut race for the Honda NSX alongside John Danby Racing regular James Barclay in the daytime Production race. Although the NSX is quit old now, but it still can cut it.

We're not sure how many of you follow the Britcar Championship, but even if you don't, we gather that you'll appreciate these photos of John Danby Racing team's newly developed Honda NSX racer. The matte black Japanese sportscar was built to comply with the Britcar Production regulations and has already completed a successful shakedown test at Snetterton in Norfolk last Friday ahead of its debut at the season's final round at Brands Hatch on November 7.

John Danby Racing have developed the car to include the latest technology and features innovative engine control and data-logging capabilities including GPS, Fly by Wire and live feed video. High specification custom solutions have also been engineered for the NSX such as dampers and brakes.

Motoring journalist and television personality Vicki Butler-Henderson will drive the debut race for the Honda NSX alongside John Danby Racing regular James Barclay in the daytime Production race. Car owner and Britcar regular David Fenn will then drive the NSX in the evening GT race alongside Barclay.

“We are excited with the potential of the NSX following our test programme and look forward to a solid debut performance,” says John Danby.

It might seem that the 2010 Honda VFR1200F has come to reinvent the supersport touring segment, but manufacturers such as Yamaha have their own classic approach towards offering a motorcycle that is fast, comfortable and built to last, the 2010 FJR1300A. Those of you who are familiar with the name will say that the FJR1300AE is an even better choice thanks to Yamaha’s electric-shift five-speed transmission, which eliminates the clutch and offer riders effortless electric shifting, but Yamaha has discontinued this model for 2010 and leaves FJR riders completely in charge over the bike’s functions.

Considering the fact that Yamaha brags about the new FJR1300A offering an incredibly smooth ride, you first tend to think they simply took the best from the AE model – the fancy transmission and clutch – and fitted it on the A one, which was to carry on as a 2010 model year, but no. Along time, sales have shown that riders prefer the FJR’s beautiful combination between power coming from the 1298cc, liquid-cooled, inline-four; DOHC, 16 valves engine and sporty handling characteristics ensured by a light aluminum frame.

Broadly, the right engine and chassis “make” the bike and in this case, the fuel-injected mill is mated to a five-speed gearbox and a shaft stands as the final drive, while the forks are 48mm, fully adjustable units capable of 5.4 inches of travel and the rear shock, which is preload and rebound adjustable, offers 4.8 inches of travel. Although none of these features are new on the bike, they do help us show how engineers managed to do the trick with this motorcycle. The brakes are very important as well for this 641 lbs two-wheeler and the fact that ABS is standard on the 2010 Yamaha FJR1300A comes as an ease of things for most riders.

Technically, this bike doesn’t get any reproaches, but in order to be a refined sports tourer it needs to offer the proper comfort and wind protection. And with adjustable ergonomics and windshield, the 2010 Yamaha FJR1300A doesn’t show any signs of not being precisely that.

As we earlier mentioned, people tend to compare the fairly unchanged 2010 Yamaha FJR1300A with the new, sport-oriented 2010 Honda VFR1200F and we’ll have to say that if that would be the case, the subject of this article won’t stand a change, but the 2009 Honda ST1300 is still going strong and has plenty to show against our bike, especially in terms of touring-like comfort and excellent wind protection. So the battle between Big Red and Racing Blue should start a new round after Honda calls the ST1300 a 2010 model year.

Although not redesigned for 2010, the fact is that the FJR1300A looks like a fully-faired and completely accessorized FZ1 on steroids. Designers made sure this bike will fulfill its rider’s needs during long journeys by developing the advanced air management system and adjustable bodywork, which spoil the rider.

The foamy seat can be adjusted from 31.69 to 32.48 inches above the ground and the windscreen is pushbutton adjustable as well. But these are matters of finesse. What truly strikes you is how aerodynamic the fairing actually is, indicating that it doesn’t get a lot of those “fix this” stickers when being tested in the air tunnel. Also, the thing looks very aggressive and the mirrors look bigger than those of a Mini, contributing at the bike making its presence truly felt down the open road. We even heard a car driver saying “that thing looks scary in my rear view mirror” at a gas station once, but didn’t quite believe him.

With the footpegs positioned right at the middle of the bike and the handlebars brought close to the rider, the FJR offers an upright riding position and shows that it will sacrifice looks over comfort at any time even though this is not the case. Onboard, the Instrument panel features an electronic analog speedometer and tachometer; LCD digital odometer, dual tripmeters, gear position indicator, fuel, coolant and air temperature gauges, and clock; lights for neutral, high beam, turn signals, low oil and engine warnings—as well as real-time mileage, average mileage and air temperature, just like you would expect from a bike in this segment. Still, it’s the sidecases that complete the FJR’s sport-touring look as not everyone who looks at the bike will get to swing a leg over it, so it’s good they get the right opinion from the first glance.

Liquid Silver is the only color available for the 2010 Yamaha FJR1300A and we believe it suits it best because this is one of those things you now see and then you don’t.

But riders who want this to be a constant presence in their lives will have to look over the fairly spicy $15,190 MSRP considering that the 2010 Kawasaki Concours 14 starts at $14,599 and the ABS model at $15,299 and these are upgraded bikes that we’re talking about. Expect to find it at your local dealer in February.

It seems that Yamaha relies on the FJR1300A’s fame to obtain the best results in the year to come and they don’t have a big retention when it comes to price. That is because nobody complained about these motorcycles so far and for good reason.

Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway unveiled the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Indianapolis 500 pace car. The first year for Camaro to pace the Indianapolis 500 was in 1967, the year the Camaro made its debut. Camaro has since paced the race in 1969, 1982, 1993 and 2009.

The Chevrolet Camaro SS Pace Car is equipped with a stock 400 hp 6.2L V-8, an RS appearance package and leather interior with Inferno Orange interior accents. The pace car also features unique design cues that further enhance the Camaro’s head-turning design. Features unique to the pace car include: 2010 Indianapolis 500 event logo painted on doors and embroidered on driver and passenger headrests, 2010 Indianapolis 500 event logo badges on front fenders, All-new front grille insert that Chevrolet plans to offer as a future Camaro accessory, Amber lens tail lamps, Complete safety strobe light system with custom interior light bar in the rear window (no rooftop light bar) and All-new GM Accessory floor mats with red and orange accent stitching.

Starting at approximately $23,000, and offering an EPA-estimated 29 highway mpg on the V-6-powered car, the all-new Camaro is a budget-friendly sports car that doesn’t sacrifice on performance. Despite the recent economic challenges, the Camaro has overtaken its closest competitor to lead the regular sports car segment in sales for the last six months. Chevrolet sold more than 6,000 Camaros in each of these months.

The public will get their first look at the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS Indianapolis 500 pace car when it makes its auto show debut at the Indianapolis Auto Show starting on Dec. 26.

Nissan has given its European market compact crossover, the Qashqai, a mid-life makeover for 2010 to prolong its appeal to consumers. Most of the cosmetic changes concern the front end as hood, bumper, fenders, grille and headlights have all been revised giving the Qashai a much more aggressive look.

The Nissan Qashqai is an auto that’s better gazed upon than mentioned. It has a difficult and queer-sounding name that’s pronounced as Cash Kai but it does not mean you need plenty of cash to get it. Guess what, this car was tested and is the recipient of the highest ever EuroNCAP crash rating making it a small but one of the safest cars in Europe if not the world.

Excellent safety features aside, the Nissan Qashqai is good-looking and can match the looks of the mini. It may be small but it looks bulky with a distinctive front thanks to the large front lights. It has 16-inch alloy wheels but you can opt for the 17-inch wheels at an additional cost of £700 but if you’re opting for the higher-end Tekna trim then the 17-inch wheels come as a standard feature.

In the 2010 model, there are also two new exterior colors, revised tail lights with LED technology, and newly designed 17-inch alloy wheels. These styling changes together with a series of other improvements are said to have reduced the Qashqai’s drag coefficient from 0.34 to 0.33.

The Nissan’s interior is logically laid out – if a little plain – and the build quality is top-notch, with soft-touch plastics and well damped switchgear. There is plenty of storage, too, with a large glovebox and decent door pockets.

The car will be offered with three engines when launched in February. There are two petrol units – an 113bhp 1.6-litre and 138bhp 2.0-litre – and one diesel, the 105bhp 1.5 dCi. The 148bhp 2.0 oil-burner will arrive in June.

While the smaller petrol unit is expected to account for the majority of sales, it’s the larger diesel which is our pick of the line-up. The Renault-sourced unit is punchy, responsive and superbly refined. Its 320Nm of torque peaks at only 2,000rpm, but it doesn’t run out of breath further up the rev range.

The new Volvo C30 stands for individualism and ecologi-cally friendly driving. Volvo tuner HEICO SPORTIV is sharpening this profile… in every respect.

“The future of our business model lies in the intelligent combination of performance-oriented products and ecological sustainability,” explains HEICO SPORTIV general manager, Holger Hedtke.

A philosophy that accompanies every step of the new Volvo C30 product development process. With the Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe, HEICO SPORTIV will be launching the economy model as the basis for the extensive individualization program.

The standard factory specifications of the Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe already offer a wide range of innovative technologies such as start/stop driving with brake-energy recovery, reducing fuel consumption to 3.9 liters/100 km* (* Combined, in accordance with prescribed measurement technique (RL80/1268/EWG)). The Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe covers the classic zero to 100 km/h sprint in just 9.2 seconds, beating its series-produced counterpart by 2.1 seconds! A maximum speed of 200 km/h is also attainable, 10 km/h faster than the series version.

“This is our basic starting point for proving that ecologically friendly action and the pleasure of driving don’t need to be mutually exclusive,” says Holger Hedtke. “In doing so, aerodynamically optimized components such as the radiator grille or under-floor intentionally remain untouched.”

The HEICO SPORTIV Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe features a remodeled design elements at the front and rear. The HEICO SPORTIV front spoiler – which replaces the original lower base section of the bumper – consists of fiber-strengthened polyurethane and is fixed using the existing anchorage points. The same applies to the rear valence which mimics the front spoiler’s laterally arranged air vents and has a centrally placed diffuser element. The rear valence serves to accommodate the HEICO SPORTIV four pipe stainless steel exhaust system.

The Volvo C30 1.6D DRIVe is available from HEICO SPORTIV with a starting price tag of ca. EUR 29,900; the parts will naturally also be deliverable individually from spring 2010.

When the S-Max was launched back in 2006, the model was a winner for Ford of Europe from the start. It promptly took the European Car of Year Award prize and went on to be a sales success and a favorite of consumers and auto journalists alike. Now the S-Max is due for a mid-generation facelift and Ford needs to keep the model fresh without compromising its hard-won credentials with the public.

The 2010 Ford S-MAX will be available with significant detail changes to the exterior including a strongly sculptured bonnet and all-new front fascia, emphasised by the bolder graphic of the gloss black lower front trapezoidal grille. This gives Ford S-MAX a distinctive new presence on the road and a new lower front bumper which, on high series models comes with distinctive LED daytime running lights (optional for Trend series), further strengthens the car’s purposeful stance. From the side, Ford S-MAX is instantly recognisable and now stands out even more with its window profile enhanced by a chrome strip, which surrounds the whole glass area to enhance the car’s sleek and sporty lines.

The rear of new Ford S-MAX has also been re-designed with a more dynamically profiled tailgate, a lower fascia, and new LED tail lights that extend deep into the rear side flanks, creating an even stronger athletic appearance. Peer at the nose and slightly repositioned air intakes with adjacent foglights coming into view. Above them, a shapelier hood with twin design lines adds a sporty flavor to the otherwise bland van. Boosting its premium appeal while further distinguishing the new car is a horizontal satin chrome bar, which runs between the LED tail lights and is embossed with the distinctive S-MAX logo.

The Ford S-MAX offer an all-new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost SCTi engine. Featuring lightweight all-aluminium construction, the latest-generation high-pressure direct injection system, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing. The 2.0-litre EcoBoost SCTi engine has a maximum output of 203 PS (149kW) at 5,500 rpm, combined with maximum torque of 300 Nm, which is delivered across a broad 1,750-4,500 rpm range. With this new powertrain, the Ford S-MAX achieves 0-100km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 221 km/h (137 mph).

The Lamborghini RatÛn designed by Niels Steinhoff is an aggressively styled concept for a flagship supercar designed to compete against the Bugatti Veyron.

In cooperation with the Munich University of Applied Sciences, Lamborghini sponsored the 'Raw Material' project tasking students from the German institution to create a series of design concepts for a future supercar.

Like the Reventon, Steinhoff's project is inspired by modern stealth fighters such as the F22 Raptor. This gives the design a more dynamic feeling and takes the aircraft-inspired design, which began with the Lamborghini Reventon, to the next level.

The car is formed out of one central, jet-like body and added wings, which form the fenders. Fitting the extreme over-the-edge style of the car are some humoristic features like the machine-gun inspired headlights and the wheels, which have the form of an atomic warning symbol.

The Lamborghini RatÛn was displayed at the Munich University's annual college degree show.

Mercedes-Benz, together with Hughes Telematics, announced a new infotainment system for its cars; the mbrace Telematics system, that will allow users to access 18 different services via a nifty telematics system.

Similar to Ford’s Sync system and GM’s OnStar, mbrace also enables pairing of smart phones like iPhones and BlackBerrys to the car’s electronic interface. Drivers can then use their phones to lock or unlock their cars remotely.

Other services include automatic emergency service notification in case the car is stolen or in an accident, a vehicle health check function that goes live to the nearest dealership, real-time weather and traffic reports, and even a concierge service that gets you 24/7 access to a customer-service rep who will help you make dinner reservations, book a hotel or order a flight.

The system will be available as standard in most Mercedes Benz cars, while others (GLK, C-Class, SLK and the new E-Class Coupe) will have it as an option. This fully upgradable system will come with a free subscription for six months, and will ultimately cost $280 a year. The optional concierge services will add $20 a month to that bill.

What makes mbrace really stand out is that it is fully upgradable, with new applications easily installed as they are developed. Furthermore, most vehicle owners using the current Tele Aid telematics service can also upgrade to mbrace by visiting a Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Mercedes is bringing the 2010 Maybach Zeppelin to Geneva Motor Show in March. Maybach first used the Zeppelin name in the 1930s, when dirigible’s name symbolized modern luxury. Now the name’s resurrection will be used to get more in touch with old-world elegance. From the outside, the luxury brand’s new top-of-the-range model can be recognised by its two-tone special paint finish - a mix of “Rocky Mountains” light brown and “Taiga” black, but customers can choose whatever they want. Other features include unique 20-inch wheels, special “California” beige leather upholstery, and a set of silver champagne flutes.

The streamlined exterior mirrors, which produce even less wind noise, are new to Maybach. They have a more angular design and are separated from the door frame by a slender arm, giving them a more expressive look. They also feature an enlarged mirror surface together with integral indicators in the shape of a horizontal “V” for even greater perceptual safety.

The curving “ZEPPELIN” lettering that appears below the distinctive double “M” emblem on the radiator grille and on the boot lid instantly gives away the elite status of the new Maybach Zeppelin.

The 6.0-liter biturbo V12 has also been upgraded 28 hp to now make 640 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. All this extra luxury does of course come at a price: €406,000 for the Maybach 57 Zeppelin and €473,200 for the Maybach 62 Zeppelin. At today’s rates, that’s about $524,000 and $610,000 respectively. While the price alone will ensure exclusivity, Mercedes says the Zeppelin edition will be limited to 100 units.

A Maybach brochure dating from 1930 clearly sets out the firm’s stall: “To create only the very best from the very best – a car that fulfils every last wish and stands out for its supremely refined elegance and power.” At that time, Karl Maybach had developed a luxury car, the likes of which had never been seen before. Maybach derived the design of its mighty twelve-cylinder drive unit from the same engine he had developed to power the daring airships of aviation pioneer Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin. Inspired by the Count’s visionary personality, he christened Germany’s first ever series-production twelve-cylinder car “Zeppelin”, and offered it to a highly discerning (and solvent) clientele with a displacement of either seven or eight litres (150 hp or 200 hp).

Even today, the name “Zeppelin” has an incomparable ring to it in the realm of high-end luxury cars. As the flagship model in today’s range of Maybach Saloons, the new Maybach Zeppelin does justice to its branding. The name is not merely intended to rekindle memories, after all: as in bygone times, Maybach is once again building the Maybach Zeppelin for distinguished drivers who are seeking something extra special, even in this most luxurious of automotive segments. Not only do the Maybach 57 Zeppelin and Maybach 62 Zeppelin stand out for their exquisite elegance, inventive ideas and phenomenal performance.

Press release

First introduced as a high-performance version of the Sky roadster in 2007, the Red Line turns out decent performance from an Ecotec turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 260 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 2500 rpm. These figures give this engine the notable distinction of having the best horsepower-to-displacement ratio of any GM engine and the most powerful motor in the Ecotec family. Gasoline direct injection technology helps the engine produce more power while maintaining the lower fuel consumption of a small displacement port-injected engine. With direct injection, fuel is delivered directly to the combustion chamber to create a more complete burn of the air/fuel mixture. Less fuel is required to produce the equivalent horsepower. EPA figures for the Redline are a decent 21 and 30 for highway driving. Despite those numbers, the Redline gets to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.

To compensate for the addition of more power, the car’s chassis has been tuned for better handling and its braking system has been upgraded for quicker stopping. Other technical highlights include a torque-sensing, limited-slip differential and StabiliTrak electronic stability control. Like all Saturn Skys, the Red Line model boasts a near 50:50 weight distribution, independent front and rear suspension, an extremely stiff body, and coil-over Bilstein monotube shocks.

Other modifications include a slightly stiffer suspension, a unique front fascia with a different foglight/grille treatment, as well as blackened headlamp surrounds and a rear bumper that has two fat rectangular exhaust tips, a single reverse lamp and a cute little "turbo" badge on its cheek. Inside, the Red Line gets leather wrapping for that still-too-big steering wheel, unique embroidery, metallic sill plates, stainless steel pedal covers and unique gauges with a digital boost gauge in the Driver Information Center.

The Red Line also features several unique interior and exterior differences compared to the base Sky roadster including dual exhaust with chrome polished outlets, 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, and a redesigned front apron with large vents and black headlamp bezels.

The base price of the Saturn Sky Redline is $30,475, which doesn’t exactly sound cheap. It is afterall still a Saturn. But all things being equal, you have to wonder if the car simply had a different badge on the hood if 30 grand would seem quite reasonable.

Expectedly, the 2010 MV Agusta F4 is based of Massimo Tamburini’s iconic design, and is updated to fit more with modern tastes, echoing the same fantastic, aggressive design ethos with a detailed reengineering down to the smallest detail, resulting in a new F4 that does the impossible by improving upon perfection. But MV has also changed the bike underneath the hood. With a 998cc motor, the new F4 makes 3hp more than the comparably displaced 2009 MV Agusta R 312.

The new 2010 MV Agusta F4 is a lighter, faster and stronger superbike. Already world-famous for a beauty surpassing all other superbikes, MV Agusta has provided a fresh look to the iconic sensual lines of the new 2010 MV Agusta F4 while still preserving its design spirit. Set to debut the all new F4 in Milan this evening, MV Agusta has also taken special care to deliver a lighter, faster, stronger motorcycle that pushes the limits of performance either out on the street or track.

Ergonomics for the new 2010 MV Agusta F4 have also been redesigned, enabling riders to achieve performance limits more safely while harnessing the brand new, more powerful F4. To improve handling, the new MV Agusta F4 features a lightened framework and chassis with revised geometry that significantly improves riding comfort. The 2010 F4 is 22 lbs. lighter than its predecessor, weighing in at a lithe 423.5 lbs. total weight.

Like the Brutale, a new engine, chassis, and swingarm have been designed for the 2010 model. These changes make the 2010 MV Agusta F4 4cm narrower, while making the chassis more rigid. Riders should find the new chassis more comfortable, and will be able to make use of the F4’s new 8-way adjustable traction control unit and twin-map ECU. Helping get the power to the ground is bike’s Other changes include:

Power supply with TSS variable length intake system

TC MK II traction control system, adjustable on 8 levels

Two injectors per cylinder

New electronic injection system with 49-mm throttle bodies

New Magneti Marelli 7 SM ECU

New 4-1 exhaust system with valve

"With the introduction of the new 2010 F4, MV Agusta has improved one of the most sought after motorcycles in the world on every level from an engineering, design, and performance aspect. And now, with the new 2010 F4 unveiled alongside our new Brutale 990R and 1090RR models, we feel our company is in a position to show the industry why MV Agusta is known for creating incomparable works of motorcycle art," says Larry Ferracci, Director of U.S. Operations for MV Agusta USA.

DUU CR&S Premium 1,916 cc V-twin Concept Bike

The DUU from CR&S is a premium motorcycle with a modular layout that amalgamates a European chassis and styling with American-made V-twin power (2.0 liter). Touting an aggressive design with stylish details, the two-seater presents a variety of styles, options and features which can be attached or removed from the motorbike to create a personalized and customized machine. Powered by a 1,916 cc V-twin engine wrapped in bodywork and frame, the motorbike promises an enthralling ride for biking enthusiasts.

The DUU extends this concept, now synonymous with the CR&S brand. In addition to technical and aesthetic options, the DUU allows different configurations. The CR&S DUU begins with a single or two-seater base module, which provides the main needs of the rider while offering countless configuration options, without affecting functionality or the aesthetic form.

An innovative motorcycle, “modular and muscular”, built from high quality, durable materials and best components, with a powerful, rugged and reliable engine.

CR&S expects to deliver the first DUU in Europe by 2011. Target price, for the base model, is € 20,000.00 on the road, with a production volume of a few dozen units per year.

The unique APRILIA SCARABEO 500ie stands out instantly from the crowd. A perfect combination of classic lines and modern details that is destined from the start to set new trends. Outstanding ergonomics and many intelligent technical solutions make life in the saddle easier, such as the height adjustable windshield and incredible load capacity with the largest helmet compartment ever seen on a high-wheeled scooter.

The Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. also offers plenty of performance to satisfy the needs of users who want a protective, automatic, light motorbike capable of tackling medium to long range journeys.

Responsive, light and fast, and with superior levels of comfort worthy of a motorcycle, ease and effectiveness are two of the greatest strengths of the Scarabeo 500 i.e. Its compact size makes it perfect for beating the city traffic and fitting into cramped parking spaces, while its lusty engine makes overtaking practically instantaneous - all you need is a gentle twist of the wrist to leave the traffic far behind. The Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. is the lightest vehicle of its category, a merit that combined with the excellent performance of its engine guarantees a record weight to power ratio that translates into enjoyable, easy and intuitive riding. The oversized braking system with combined front/rear braking action and with the wide tyres are results of the designer's intentions to create an inherently safe vehicle, which is one of the factors that makes Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. much more than just a scooter.

Rider and passenger comfort are always a priority for Aprilia's designers. An incredible amount of care went into defining the ergonomics and equipment of the Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. to make life on board as relaxed as possible. Plenty of space for both rider and passenger means that even longer journeys can be tackled in total comfort. The saddle is just 785 mm from the ground, while the footrest platform is narrowed so as not to obstruct the legs, this means that riders of all statures can easily reach the ground.

The lusty 4 stroke single-cylinder engine, which represents the state of the art for scooter engines, is amazingly efficient and characterised by four valve timing, efficient liquid-cooling and a latest generation automatic transmission. The fuel system uses an evolved electronic injection system that not only considerably cuts consumption, but makes management of power delivery optimum, so riding is a great pleasure. A dynamic balancer countershaft reduces vibration for superb comfort. With its maximum power of 29 kW (39 HP) at 7,500 rpm and 43 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm, the Scarabeo 500 i.e. offers top performance that is entirely comparable to multi-cylinder engines. Ultra-light weight gives the Aprilia SCARABEO 500 i.e. one of best power to weight ratios (6.5 kg/kW) of any scooter on the market.

Like all Aprilia vehicles, also the chassis of the Scarabeo makes the most of the enormous amount of know how built up in years of experience and racing.

Reconciling maximum comfort with maximum riding pleasure was the goal of Aprilia engineers when designing the Scarabeo 500 i.e. The result is a scooter with a weight distribution almost the same as that of a motorcycle, which made it possible to achieve exceptional riding and handling qualities while keeping intact the proverbial stability at high speeds, feature of all Aprilia products. Riding a Aprilia Scarabeo 500 i.e. is a real pleasure - not only because of its inimitable design, but also because the involving riding character typical of all Aprilia products makes the Scarabeo 500 i.e. an extraordinarily dynamic vehicle, resulting in a rewarding ride even on the daily commute.

The double cradle frame is made from high strength steel tubing and has been designed to ensure excellent torsional rigidity and outstanding strength. A rigid, efficient frame that ensures the Scarabeo 500 i.e. is truly stable at high speeds.

The telescopic hydraulic front fork with stanchions at full 40 mm in diameter ensures superb steering precision and, with its generous wheel travel, has an excellent capacity for absorbing bumps.

The engine-transmission unit also acts as a swingarm and is linked to two dual-action shock absorbers. The spring preload setting is adjustable to four different positions, for optimum damping in all load and road surface conditions.

Comfort and rideability were also achieved by adopting large diameter wheels (16" at the front and 14" at the rear) with wheel rims shod with tubeless, motorcycle-sized tyres (110/70 at the front and 150/70 at the rear) to guarantee perfect road holding. The large size of the tyres also increases utmost safety when braking.

By using the integrated braking system, the rider has at his disposal an always powerful, safe and easy to handle braking force on any kind of road surface. SCARABEO 500 i.e. is fitted with large diameter discs: the two 260 mm front discs with floating callipers are backed up by a 240 mm rear disc.

In spite of its compact size, low saddle and high wheels, the Scarabeo 500 i.e. boasts a helmet compartment worthy of a grand touring scooter able to easily house a flip up helmet and other small objects, and even an A3 size briefcase, as no part of the compartment is less than 15 cm wide. There is also a lockable oddments storage compartment behind the leg shield.

The analogue and digital instruments with a white background and classic graphics provide the rider with all the information necessary, while the small display also includes a fuel level gauge. The saddle can also be opened using a remote control button that makes opening the compartment key-free, just one more convenience in day to day use.

In keeping with the Aprilia philosophy, Scarabeo 500 i.e. comes fully equipped with everything as standard, including an electronic antitheft system with remote control.