Volkswagen kicked off the launch of the all-new second-generation Touareg SUV at the Geneva Auto Show with the introduction of a new hybrid model. The new Touareg Hybrid comes complete with a supercharged and direct-injection 3.0-liter V6, electric motor, battery pack and eight-speed automatic transmission. The result is a combined fuel economy rating of 28.6 mpg in the EU cycle, which is likely to be more like 24-mpg combined for the U.S. That’s good, but not as impressive as you might think, when compared to the current TDI model with a rating of almost 32 mpg. Other engines offered include a 3.6-liter V6, as well as a 335-hp 4.2-liter TDI V8 (which won’t be available in North America).

Expect big gains in fuel economy across the vehicle range due to the 8-speed tranny as well as a vastly lighter overall weight (by 460 lbs). VW says the new SUV is 20 percent more efficient than the outgoing model.

We have to say the SUV’s new look is impressive, with a sporty crossover style that includes the two-bar grille found on the current Golf.

And while it may look like a crossover, the Touareg remains an SUV with true off-road capability. Gasoline models get VW’s 4MOTION system with all-wheel drive, a Torsen limited-slip differential and an off-road driving program that increases the threshold for ABS, EDS and ASR, while activating Hill Descent Assist and adjusting the transmission shift points. The V6 TDI can be had with an optional Terrain Tech Pack with a more rugged transfer case, as well as reduction gearing and both center and rear locking differentials. Like the first-generation model, the new Touareg has a rotary switch to control the different off-road settings. The five modes include: On-Road; Off-Road; Low, which includes off-road plus reduced gearing, higher shift points and no automatic upshift in manual mode; The addition of the center differential lock; and finally the addition of the rear differential lock. VW makes the rather (and almost absurd) claim that this AWD system allows the new Touareg to, “conquer any terrain on Earth.”

We’re not sure about that, but the new style updates make a big difference and the improvement in fuel economy is always a plus.

GALLERY: Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid

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With Infiniti having just joined the European marketplace in recent years, the luxury arm of Nissan is looking to make a big impression by introducing fuel efficient diesel models, as well as the brand’s first ever hybrid.

The M35 Hybrid is based on the new M platform and uses the previous generation’s 3.5-liter V6. This engine is then paired with an electric motor, lithium-ion battery pack and Infiniti’s 7-speed automatic transmission to deliver rear-drive performance, with improved fuel economy. While no engine or fuel economy numbers are available, the 3.5-liter V6 likely makes about 300-hp, while the electric motor adds 67-hp and 199 ft-lbs of torque.

As mentioned, no fuel economy numbers are available, but we should see a marked improvement over the new M37′s 18/26 (city/highway) rating.

Infiniti will bring the M35 Hybrid to market by the Spring of 2011.

GALLERY: Infiniti M35 Hybrid

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Along with the launch of the new Audi A1 at the Geneva Auto Show, the automaker unveiled an E-Tron electric vehicle concept.

The A1 E-Tron is powered by a 102 hp electric motor with a range of 31.07 miles. A compact Wankel rotary engine kicks in when needed to recharge the lithium-ion battery, potentially extending the range to 124.27 miles.

According to Audi’s calculations, the fuel A1 E-Tron’s range extender gasoline engine has a fuel consumption of 123.8 mpg and produces 72.42 g/mile of CO2 gas.

Gallery: Audi A1 E-Tron Concept

Easily one of our to picks at this year’s Geneva Auto Show is Audi’s RS5 sports coupe. Based on the already stunning A5/S5, it is powered by the same 4.2-liter V8 found in the RS4 or R8, but output has been upped to a total of 450-hp at 8250 rpm, while maximum torque of 317 ft-lbs is available from 4000 to 6000 rpm. Combined with Audi’s S-tronic dual-clutch 7-speed transmission, quattro all-wheel drive and a 3,803 lb curb weight the RS5 can accelerate to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds – which isn’t quite as exciting as we might expect for a 450-hp car.

Featured for the first time on the RS5 is Audi’s new crown-gear differential, which allows for up to 70 percent of the power to be distributed to the front wheels, or as much as 85 percent to the rear wheels. Under normal operation, the RS5 has a 40:60 rear-bias. In addition, the RS5 features an electronic limited slip differential, that slows the inside wheel in a turn when wheel spin is detected. Plus, an optional sport differential will be made available, distributing power between the rear wheels.

The RS5 sits 0.79 inches lower than the A5 and comes standard with 19-inch wheels (20s are optional). Other highlights include 14.37-inch, 8-piston front brakes, as well as optional carbon-fiber brake discs. There’s also Audi’s drive-select program to control different levels of throttle response, steering, transmission gear changes, the sport differential and even the exhaust system. As for the big rear spoiler, it pops up at speeds above 74 mph and automatically retracts at 50 mph.

Take a gander through our gallery below and leave us your envious thoughts.

GALLERY: Audi RS5

With the matte-green 599 hybrid concept on display at the Ferrari booth at the Geneva Auto Show, the Italian exotic automaker didn’t have a lot to say about it, but the company’s CEO did make an important remark about the future of Ferrari hybrids. Luca di Montezemolo commented that the automaker is looking to reduce emissions by up to 35 percent in the next three years and one way it intends to do that is to offer hybrid versions of all of its models in the next three or four years.

The 599 hybrid concept (Vettura Laboratorio HY Kers) is the start of what di Montezemolo called a long project, which is sure to include several updates before it becomes a full production model. The matte-green Ferrari uses a Kinetic Energy Recovery System to give the model an extra boost of electric power – making it an even higher performer. The lithium-ion battery pack for the hybrid system is located low in the car, improving its center of gravity, while not intruding on the passenger compartment. It is hooked up to a dual-clutch 7-speed transmission and adds at least 100 extra hp (as Ferrari insisted every added pound was offset by at least one horsepower).

The electric energy generated under braking also powers the car’s batter and its accessories, and allows the car to run on pure electric power at times (although Ferrari doesn’t say how far or for how long).

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Lamborghini has just officially unveiled its most powerful and impressive Gallardo to date, taking the Superleggera name to new extremes. Titled the Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera, it takes after the original Super-G by offering a light-weight package, while adding even more horsepower.

As the name suggests, the LP570 makes 10-hp more than the standard LP560 model from the same direct-injection 5.2-liter V10, but that’s only the start. Thanks to a reduction of 154 lbs, the Superleggera’s dry weight is just 2,954 lbs. (Expect about 100 more lbs when full of fluids). In total 88 of those saved pounds are due to the use of light-weight carbon fiber body components, while a polycarbonate rear window (and side windows) make up some of the rest.

All this weight reduction, when combined with the big V10 and Lambo’s six-speed e-gear system, result in a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 202 mph.

The car’s exterior has been modified slightly, with dark-painted lower portions to give an even more aggressive look. There’s also a new four-pipe rear exhaust, while the Italian colors have been pinstriped across the lower portion of the car. Other notable items include the 19-inch wheels, as well as options like carbon ceramic brakes and a that big rear spoiler.

GALLERY: Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera

GALLERY: Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera New

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Barring the unlikely scenario that Volkswagen releases a Polo R, the Polo GTI is now the sportiest mini-Golf offered in Europe. Sadly, VW sill has no official plans to bring the Polo (including this new GTI model) to North America. Read on to see why that’s such sad news.

Powering the car is VW’s impressive 1.4 TSI Twincharger engine. Displacing 1.4-liters this four cylinder uses direct-injection technology as well as a turbocharger and a supercharger to make 178-hp and 184 ft-lbs of torque. Combined with a 7-speed DSG transmission, the little GTI can hit 62 mph in 6.9 seconds. It’s also incredibly efficient, delivering 40 mpg on average (using the more generous European Test Cycle). This represents a fuel economy improvement over the last Polo GTI’s 1.8T engine.

Along with a GTI-styled exterior and interior (with the necessary Interlagos plaid seats), Polo GTI highlights include a sports suspension that is not only stiffer but also 15mm lower to the ground. A set of 17-inch wheels allow for wider 215/40/17 tires. And to help in the corners, the Polo GTI gets VW’s XDS electronic differential, which uses the car’s brakes to slow the inside wheel in a corner.

Maybe, just maybe, VW will bring the Polo, and this hot GTI version to the U.S. soon.

GALLERY: Volkswagen Polo GTI

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Kia unveiled the third generation Sportage new styling and a longer, wider and lower body at the Geneva Auto Show.

The 2010 Kia Sportage takes many of its styling cues from the Kue concept model shown in Detroit in 2007.

For Europe, Kia will offer the Sportage with four engine options, two diesel and two gasoline. The new Sportage will be available at launch with a 2.0L gasoline engine rated1 at 161 hp and a 2.0L version of Kia’s next-generation “R” family diesel engines, producing 134 hp. By late 2010, Kia will begin offering a 138 hp 1.6L gasoline engine and a 113 hp 1.7L diesel plant, both with Start/Stop fuel saving technology

Gallery: 2010 Kia Sportage

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As strange as it sounds, Aston Martin is moving ahead with the Cygnet minicar project. It’s technically still a concept, but appears to be headed for production in the near future. Unveiled at the Geneva Auto Show, it keeps much of its Toyota-based components. The main chassis and structure is based on the Toyota iQ and it even retains the Toyota’s engine.

Powering the car is a 1.33-liter 4-cylinder with 97-hp and 90 ft-lbs of torque. What makes this Aston an Aston, however, is what the company has done on the inside. While the exterior of the car most certainly get’s Aston Martin design cues, like LED lights, a massive front grille and hood vents (not to mention some seriously high-quality paint), the interior is an ultra-luxurious oasis (although it’s still rather ugly) with plenty of black and red leather.

CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez says that with the Cygnet, Aston is looking to change people’s perceptions about small city cars, and have small equal value and prestige. He also said that the Cygnet is the type of car that is not only fun to drive, but to sit in and be seen it.

There’s still no word on the exact on-sale date or what this tiny commuter car will cost.

GALLERY: Aston Martin Cygnet

Ford has just released the latest model to be based on its global C architecture, the Focus Wagon. Looking quite a bit like the Focus hatch, it’s a bit larger with more cargo room. It also represents the European launch of the MyFord Touch system.

A range of gasoline and diesel engines are available, but it doesn’t matter much as Ford has no plans to bring the wagon to North America and if itthat decision ever changes it will get the 2.0-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder set for the Focus sedan and hatch. With the new focus sedan and hatch as well as the C-Max and Grand C-Max MPVs, the wagon now represents the fifth of 10 Focus-based models. We expect a coupe to add to that list as well as a crossover to replace the Escape.

While not all 10 models will be available in all international markets, Ford says the Focus Wagon is a great example of how its cost-saving One Ford strategy can be adapted to meet regional needs.

GALLERY: Ford Focus Wagon

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At the launch of the new Focus wagon for Europe at the Geneva Auto Show, Ford confirmed plans to bring a performance Focus model to market throughout the world. Ford’s global product boss Derrick Kuzak made the announcement and while short on details did say that it would use EcoBoost technology and be “exciting to drive and to look at.”

A word of caution to North Americans, however, as we’re not likely to get a mean Focus RS model, as such a hot hatch would just be too pricey in the U.S. What we do expect is either the EcoBoost 1.6 with around 180-hp or (we hope) the EcoBoost 2.0 with over 200-hp.

Importantly, Kuzak did mention that this model would be tied in to marketing the Focus and help promote the brand’s motorsports activities. Perhaps we’ll even see EcoBoost Focus models racing in the U.S. in the near future? (Grand Am? World Challenge?) We can only hope and await more details from Ford.

Mercedes-Benz unveiled its F800 Style concept, representing what the German car maker calls the future of premium cars.

The F800 concept has two variants, a plug-in hybrid with a 272 hp V6 direct injection engine paired with a 109 hp lithium-ion battery powered motor, and a fuel cell-powered 136 hp electric model that produces water vapor as its only emission.

The front end features a variation of the radiator grille with the familiar Mercedes-Benz star centrally positioned. curved air intake openings, curved louvres, wide grille  and LED headlamps foreshadow what we may see in future Mercedes-Benz models.

The front doors open in a conventional manner but the rear doors slide backward, suspended from an interior swivel arm to allow easier access in tight parking spaces (which would be particularly useful in the cramped parking lot here at the Geneva Palexpo.)

Other features include some new technology such as Distronic Plus Traffic Jam Assistant, which essentially takes active cruise control to a new level by steering the car at speeds below 25 mph. There’s also an advanced Pre-Safe 360-degree system that works to detect rear-impacts and prevent a rear-impact from pushing you into another car in front.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz F800 Style

It seems like its been quite a while since BMW announced the new 5 Series, but the German automaker’s Geneva Auto Show press conference has provided us our first chance to get a look at this all-new model. The luxury sedan has grown for 2011 and looks it, while taking styling cues from both the current 3 Series and 7 Series.

When it initially goes on sale in North America, the 5 Series will be offered in both 550i and 535i trim. The 550 model boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 400-hp and 450 ft-lbs of torque, enabling it to hit 60 mph in just 5 seconds. As for the 535i, it gets BMW’s excellent twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six motor for 300-hp and 300 ft-lbs of torque. Both models will be available with either a standard six-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. A “Sport Automatic” 8-speed will also be optional.

No fuel economy numbers have been released yet, but BMW has made significant efficiency improvements with “green” technologies like electric power steering and Brake Energy Regeneration, where the alternator only recharges the car’s batteries under braking. The tall gears of the 8-speed transmission should also help deliver much improved fuel economy.

Those really in search of the best fuel mileage will, however, want to wait for the 528i, which will debut later with a 240-hp inline-six. At the Geneva Show, BMW also showed a European 520d, that gets an incredible 47 mpg on the European Test Cycle.

In terms of improvements to handling, the new 5 Series gets a completely new front suspension that uses a multi-link setup as opposed to a strut setup. This system is also found on the new 7 Series, which is no coincidence, as both the new 5 and 7 Series share the same platform. Along with the electric power steering system, the new 5 Series gets the Integral Active Steering setup as found on the 5 Series GT, which turns turns the rear wheels. In low speed situations, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels for better maneuverability, while at speed the rear wheels turn in the same direction to deliver better cornering and stability. And to further improve performance, there’s an electronic limited slip differential, which comes into play once DSC (stability control) is completely shut off.

Real driving enthusiasts will opt for the Sport Package with Adaptive Drive. This package includes Driving Dynamics Control (same as on the 7 Series and Z4), which lets the driver choose from Comfort, Normal, Sport and Sport+ driving settings, which control the throttle response, transmission shift points, power steering assistance level and traction control. It also includes Dynamic Damping Control, which constantly changes the car’s shock settings and includes a 10mm lower ride height. Finally, the sport package includes Active Roll Stabilization, with hydraulic stabilizer bars that actually firm up when body lean is detected.

Inside, the new 5er gets BMW’s latest iDrive system, which on the 7 Series is much improved and quite easy to use. The iDrive setup includes a 7-inch LCD screen, or a 10.2-inch screen if the Navigation Package box is checked. The larger 116-inch wheelbase makes for a roomier interior and to help keep passengers comfortable, the car’s active cruise control now has a feature that will slow the car in a corner if the vehicle detects the curve is to extreme.

Another great tech item is the heads-up display that can even show some navigation instructions.

There’s also plenty of safety features in the new 5 Series like Active Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Adaptive Headlights that switch to hi-beam if necessary. A larger section of the taillights will also illuminate under hard braking to ensure those behind you will know you are stopping. The Active Cruise Control system also includes Frontal Collision Warning that will warn the driver of an impending impact and actually apply the brakes if he does not act.

Additional highlights include new Top View and Side View displays of the car for ideal parking, which works in conjunction with BMW Parking Assistant.

GALLERY: BMW 5 Series

Overshadowed by the launch of the 918 Spyder Concept, Porsche’s Geneva Auto Show press conference also marked the debut of the all-new 2011 Cayenne and Cayenne Hybrid. The redesign is a big improvement, giving the capable SUV a more sporty crossover look in keeping with the trend these days. It does, however, retain full SUV capability (not that anyone will use it though).

With the 918 Spyder being a hybrid, and the GT3 R being a hybrid race car, it was only fitting that the new Cayenne was also the hybrid version – the first production hybrid by Porsche.

The 2011 Cayenne S Hybrid is powered by a 3.o-liter V6 engine that supercharged and mated to a 47-hp electric motor for a total of 380-hp and 427 ft-lbs of torque. Porsche claims the Cayenne S Hybrid can travel up to 40 mph on just electric power and can cruise on pure electric power at speeds of up to 97 mph.

As for the rest of the 2011 Cayenne lineup, the standard model is powered by a new 300-hp V6 with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while Cayenne S models get the same 4.8-liter V8 with power upped to 400-hp. (Acceleration in the Cayenne S should be drastically improved thanks to an overall curb weight that has been reduced by 400 lbs). As for the Turbo, it makes 500-hp from a twin-turbo version of the 4.8-liter V8.

Thanks to new technology and significantly reduced curb weights, call Cayenne models get improvements in fuel economy, most by 20 percent or more. While no specific numbers for the Cayenne S hybrid are available, Porsche says it (along with the Diesel and standard V6 Cayenne) achieves better than 23.5 mpg in the European Test Cycle.

We expect Porsche to announce Pricing in the coming weeks.

GALLERY: 2011 Porsche Cayenne

We knew it was only time before Porsche decided to introduce an “S” version of its incredible 911 Turbo and here it is. Debuting at the Geneva Auto Show, the higher-powered Turbo was joined on stage by a long list of new Porsches including the 2011 Cayenne, GT3 R Hybrid race car and 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid Concept.

In keeping with tradition, the S debuts with more power, pushing the twin-turbo flat-six to 530-hp – the very same amount produced by the GT2. Torque has also been upped to 516 ft-lbs enabling an alarmingly fast 0-62 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. Top speed is rated at an impressive 196-mph. Power is transmitted to the ground with all four wheels via Porsche’s seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters.

Other highlights include launch control, the Sport Chrono Package, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) and 19-inch center-locking RS Spyder style wheels. As expected, both a coupe and cabriolet model will be offered

Pricing for the car in North American has not yet been set, but in Europe it is set at €145,400 for the coupe and €154,900 for the cabriolet, plus tax, with U.S. pricing expected shortly.

GALLERY: 2011 Porsche 911 Turbo S

While Porsche’s new 918 Spyder hybrid concept is little more than a show-piece, the German automaker also used the Geneva Auto Show to officially debut the 911 GT3 R Hybrid race car. Set to compete on the track in the near future, it is based on the GT3 chassis and is powered by a traditional 4.0-liter flat-six engine making 480-hp at the rear wheels. In addition, two electric motors will be used to power the front wheels, with 60 kW of power going to each axle. The driver will be able to call up this extra power on-demand, giving the GT3 R a temporary all-wheel drive setup as well. The power surge is expected to last between 6 and 8 seconds.

Power for the electric motors comes via a flywheel generator that operates as a regenerative braking system, powering-up the on-board battery under braking.

Porsche will compete with the GT3 R Hybrid at the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring race, which runs from May 15th to 16th.

GALLERY: Porsche GT3 R Hybrid

Porsche has just unveiled a stunning new concept, that in true Porsche fashion is even more technologically advanced that it is impressive to behold. Called the 918 Spyder concept, it’s a plug-in hybrid that the automaker claims can achieve 78 mpg in one mode, while being able to run a Nürburgring lap time in under 7 minutes, 30 seconds. Yup, faster than a Carrera GT.

The hybrid drivetrain works somewhat like a traditional two-mode hybrid, using a gasoline engine, electric motors (two of them) and a lithium-ion battery pack. What makes it so special, however, is that the gasoline engine is a 3.4-liter 500-hp V8 derived from the Porsche RS Spyder race cars and the electric motors (one of each rear wheel) make a combined 218-hp. The gasoline engine powers the rear wheels, while the electric motors work on the front two wheels. Porsche claims a 0-62 mph time of just 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 198-mph. Possibly more amazing, however, is this concept’s capability to achieve 78 mpg.

With all those electronics weighing quite a bit, the 918 Spyder uses extreme measures to keep weight to a minimum. As a result, the car gets a carbon fiber monocoque and extensive use of aluminum and titanium, for a total weight of 3,285 lbs.

Porsche has equipped the car with four driving modes, ranging from the most efficient at saving fuel, to the most efficient at saving gas. A pure electric E-Drive mode delivers 16 miles of emissions free driving, while a Hybrid model operates like a traditional Prius-type two-mode hybrid. Next up is a Sport Hybrid setting, where the electric power is used more as a boost to assist the gasoline engine. Finally, a Race Hybrid mode delivers maximum gasoline and electric power, along with an added boost of electric power after hard braking (much like a Formula One KERS-equipped car).  It is in this final mode that Porsche claims the 918 Spyder Concept can out-pace the famed Carrera GT on the Nürburgring.

GALLERY: Porsche 918 Spyder Concept

We brought you a selection of sneak peak photos of the ABT R8 GTR yesterday, but today the embargo has lifted and we can reveal all. The ABT team has taken their DTM Championship knowledge and applied it to the R8, creating a light-weight and ultra-powerful “GTR” version that is actually street legal.

The car weighs 220 lbs less than the standard R8 thanks to a copious amount of carbon fiber, for most of the body components and even for things like the interior door panels. A new set of light weight forged aluminum wheels also helps, as does a new ceramic brake system. It even gets a plexiglass engine cover. The interior is also light-weight and race-prepped with a custom roll bar, carbon fiber steering wheel, Recaro racing seats and almost every surface has been coated in Alcantara.

The 5.2-liter engine has been tuned from 525-hp to 620-hp (although ABT doesn’t really clarify how). ABT claims a new 0-62 mph time of just 3.2 seconds.

GALLERY: ABT R8 GTR

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As expected, Audi is unveiling a new A1 model to its e-Tron family of electric vehicles at the Geneva Auto Show.

The A1 e-Tron is powered by an electric motor with an internal combustion engine that is used only to recharge the motor’s battery. The motor has a continuous output of 61 hp but can peak at 102 hp in short bursts. The motor also provides 110.63 ft-lb. of continuous torque with a peak output of 177.01 ft-lb.

The T-shaped battery pack weighs less than 330.69 lb. and is rated at 380 volts. The battery provides enough power to travel 31.07 miles on a single charge, though that range can be extended by using the rotary engine.

We’ll have more including live photos when Audi officially reveals the A1 e-Tron.

Gallery: Audi A1 e-Tron

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It’s been a good few weeks since Lotus announced the Evora Cup Car, but the Geneva Auto Show is the first time we’ve been able to view the car in person. Launched with the Evora Cup racing series, this stripped-down and powered-up race car weighs just 2,645 lbs and features a larger 4.0-liter V6 engine that makes an impressive 395-hp.

The race car is built to FIA GT4 specs and will be eligible to run in many international racing series, as well as in the Lotus Evora Cup, which will take place at several racetracks throughout Europe in 2010, with plans to expand the series for 2011 already in place.

Lotus is supporting the series with €100,000 ($160,000) in prizes. As for the car itself, it will cost £120,000 ($175,000).

GALLERY: Lotus Evora Cup Car

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Set to debut a little later today at the Geneva Auto Show, Audi has already given us all the info (and pictures) on its new A8 Hybrid. Based off the German automaker’s brand new A8 luxury saloon, the A8 Hybrid is rated at 38-mpg (average), using the European test cycle, which is usually a few mpgs more generous than the U.S. cycle. Audi claims a fuel economy improvement of 20 percent in city driving.

Power comes from (what else), Audi’s incredible 2.0 TFSI engine, combined with an electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack for a total of 245-hp and 354 ft-lbs of torque. This enables not only impressive fuel economy, but also reasonably good performance (for a hybrid) with a 0-62 mpg time of 7.6 seconds.

The system is a full two-mode hybrid capable of running on gasoline, electric power or a combination of both. It can operate on pure electric power for over 1.5 miles at seeds up to 40 mph.

GALLERY: Audi A8 Hybrid

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Tomorrow Porsche will unveil what it calls the 918 Spyder Concept, a plug-in hybrid that gets 78 mpg and can lap Germany’s famed Nürburgring in less that 7 minutes and 30 seconds. Yup, faster than a Carrera GT. This info is, of course, theoretical.

The 918 Spyder concept is a plug-in hybrid and in priciple works like a traditional two-mode hybrid, using a gasoline engine, electric motors (two of them) and a lithium-ion battery pack. What makes it so special, however, is that the gasoline engine is a 3.4-liter 500-hp V8 derived from the Porsche RS Spyder race cars and the electric motors (one of each rear wheel) make a combined 218-hp. The gasoline engine powers the rear wheels, while the electric motors work on the front two wheels. Porsche claims a 0-62 mph time of just 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 198-mph. Possibly more amazing, however, is this concept’s capability to achieve 78 mpg.

With all those electronics weighing quite a bit, the 918 Spyder uses extreme measures to keep weight to a minimum. As a result, the car gets a carbon fiber monocoque and extensive use of aluminum and titanium, for a total weight of 3,285 lbs.

Porsche has equipped the car with four driving modes, ranging from the most efficient at saving fuel, to the most efficient at saving gas. A pure electric E-Drive mode delivers 16 miles of emissions free driving, while a Hybrid model operates like a traditional Prius-type two-mode hybrid. Next up is a Sport Hybrid setting, where the electric power is used more as a boost to assist the gasoline engine. Finally, a Race Hybrid mode delivers maximum gasoline and electric power, along with an added boost of electric power after hard braking (much like a Formula One KERS-equipped car).  It is in this final mode that Porsche claims the 918 Spyder Concept can out-pace the famed Carrera GT on the Nürburgring.

Oh… and did we mention it looks amazing!

We’ll be sure to bring you plenty of live photos after the official reveal tomorrow, March 2nd.

GALLERY: Porsche 918 Spyder Concept

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True to the rumors, Lamborghini has launched a new high-performance version of the LP560 and it does get the Superleggera name. Officially called the Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera, it takes after the original in applying a light-weight philosophy to the exotic bull.

With plenty of carbon fiber body panels and forged 19-inch wheels the 570-4 sheds 154 lbs of weight to a total of just 2,954 lbs (dry weight, not curb weight). That’s an incredibly low weight when you consider the V10 motor this Lambo is packing out back. As for that V10 engine, it retains it’s 5.2-liter displacement and has only been tweaked slightly to achieve the 570-hp mark. The result of this power to weight combo, paired with Lambo’s all-wheel drive setup and a six-seed e-gear transmission is a 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds. The car’s top end is rated at 202 mph.

Highlights include a stunning Alcantara coated interior, a massive rear spoiler, optional carbon ceramic brakes and some very-Italian green, white and red striping along the bottom of the car, just above the Superleggera logo.

We’ll be sure to bring you plenty of live photos of the car when it debuts at the Geneva Auto Show tomorrow.

GALLERY: 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera

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With most of the German tuning companies in attendance at the Geneva Auto Show, we were able to get a good look at most of their creations before the show officially kicks off tomorrow (March 2nd). Along with the more typically-TechArt GT Street R, it was interesting to look at the Porsche tuner’s Panamera-based Concept One.

Looking just like a manufacturer concept car (minus the Lambo doors of course), the Concept One has an extremely unique interior with funky materials and designs. The entire cabin is all black and white, except for some minor lime-green detailing. There’s even a 10.2-inch LCD screen in the rear. Outside, the car gets plenty of unique options, like 22-inch wheels and a widebody kit. The purpose of the Concept One is to highlight TechArt’s individualization program, which it offers to clients. And as much as this looks like a concept, TechArt isn’t the sort of company to toss it’s money around needlessly and so you can be sure that as wild as the Concept One looks, it likely belongs to a customer who actually intends to drive it.

We also managed to snag quite a few photos of the GT Street R, a significantly modified version of the new 2010 911 Turbo, with 660-hp and 635 ft-lbs of torque. This model is more in line with TechArt’s usual creations, delivering incredible amounts of power in a show car package. We particularly like all the dry carbon body parts and the massive (and adjustable) rear spoiler. Much like the Concept One, the interior of the GTStreet R is also a work of art, but on a more realistic level with bountiful amounts of carbon fiber, black leather and red stitching.

Importantly, the GTStreet R, it is intended to be a serious performance machine (on the street or the track), delivering a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds and a top speed o 214 mph – autobahn anyone?

GALLERY: TechArt Concept One

GALLERY: TechArt GTStreet R