Chevy is planning to deliver an RS version of its new Sonic hatchback with improved performance. Sadly, it won’t come with any more power, but it will get handling improvements and upgrades to its brakes. In addition, look for more aggressive RS bodywork.

Currently the Sonic is already best-in-class in creating power in the sub-compact category with 138-hp and 148 lb-ft of torque that’s way beyond any of its rivals. Thanks to the car’s turbocharged engine format, aftermarket tuning is certain to deliver potent bumps in power.

The first hint of such a car came at the Detroit Auto Show over a year ago when Chevy showed off the Aveo RS Concept (above). Since then, the Aveo name has been swapped out for “Sonic” in attempt to better brand the new small car.

Sonic models will hit dealers shortly priced from $14,495. Look for the Chevy Sonic RS to hit dealers in later 2012 or early 2013.

[Source: GMI]

Read AutoGuide’s 2012 Chevy Sonic Review Here

Details and photos of BMW‘s next-gen version of the 1 Series have leaked onto the net, showing a larger and more functional 5-door premium hatch that sports the company’s snub-nose grille.

According to the leaked info the car has a longer wheelbase, which helps adds 7 cubic feet of cargo room, while the interior gets a 6.5-inch (or optional 8.8-inch) iDrive display screen.

Numerous engines are offered in Europe including a three turbocharged 1.6-liter engines with 134-hp, 168-hp and 247-hp. Diesel mills makes 114-hp, 141-hp and 181-hp. With a standard 6-speed manual, the new 1 Series will reportedly get the same 8-speed automatic that will arrive in the new 3 Series.

While the previous generation 1 Series hatchback was not available in North America, after the introduction of the Lexus CT200h and plans by Mercedes to bring the A-Class to our shores, we may just get this front-driver as a close cousin to the 1 Series (or possibly renamed 2 Series) coupe and convertible.

GALLERY: 2012 BMW 1 Series Hatchback

[Source: Motor-Traffic.de via WorldCarFans]

Volkswagen‘s hot new ‘Edition 35‘ version of the GTI will make the jump across the Atlantic, pleasing performance junkies and Vee-Dub fans across the nation. Recently unveiled at the 2011 Worthersee Tour GTI meet, 35th anniversary edition of the original hot hatch may not arrive right away… and it might get a name change too.

The reason for the changes has to do with the fact that the GTI hasn’t been on sale here for 35 years. Rather, it will only be celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2012. That being said, look for an ‘Edition 30′ model soon with the requisite badge changes on the fenders and seats.

Rest assured, however, the car will come with the rest of the goodies, including the 235-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter!

GALLERY: VW GTI ‘Edition 35′

[Source: Car & Driver]

Looking to show off the sportier side of the CT200h, Lexus will be competing at this weekends VLN3 race at the Nurburgring over the weekend.

Entered in the SP4 Class, the car will be fielded by Lexus motorsports partner Gazoo Racing, which also field several LFA race cars.

While it’s no clear indication, Lexus may be using this weekend’s event as a serious test session in the lead-up to the Nurburgring 24 Hour race later this summer.

GALLERY: Lexus LFA Race Car

Read AutoGuide’s Lexus CT200h review here

Discuss this story at CT200hForum.com

Previous reports of a high-performance R version of the Volkswagen Polo sub-compact have been downplayed in the past, but the German automaker rejuvenated enthusiasm in the idea when it revealed the new Polo R WRC race car last week. With R decals displayed prominently across the car, it’s a clear hint that the Polo R idea still has wings.

Adding to the speculation are comments by VW board member Ulrich Hackenberg who said the chance of a Polo R street car was “likely.”

“You can see how the World Rally Championship programme would increase the probability of an R version of the base model [Polo],” he said in an interview with AutoCar.

Currently VW offers a Polo GTI using the company’s supercharged and turbocharged 1.4-liter engine. That same mill could be used to power the Polo R, upping its output from 177-hp to north of 200.

GALLERY: Volkswagen Polo GTI

[Source: AutoCar]

Volkswagen has just announced a new ‘Edition 35′ version of the original hot hatch, the GTI. Celebrating three and a half decades since the first GTI launched back in 1976, this new model gets unique front and rear bumpers and custom wheels. There’s also special ’35′ badging on the fenders, door sills and on the seats.

Vee-dub enthusiasts will also appreciate the added, power, with the 210-hp 2.0 TFSI engine from the standard GTI now putting out 235-hp.

The car will officially debut at the annual Wörthersee GTI meet on June 1st. On sale in Germany this summer, Volkswagen has yet to announce if a 35th anniversary edition GTI will be sold in the U.S.

GALLERY: VW GTI 35th Anniversary Edition

Looking to expand interest in its brand in China, Nissan held the World premiere of the Compact Sport Concept at the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show.

This three-door hatchback concept has a turbo-charged 1.6-liter engine, which produces 190-hp. Couple that with a CVT gearbox with paddle-shifters for its six-speeds and this would be a pocket rocket.

The concept was designed at Nissan’s Global Design Center in Japan, with input from the brands new Beijing design studio in China. Nissan says, the Compact Sport Concept is “for young customers in emerging countries.”

The concept seems to be built on the platform of the new Micra, even some interior elements look to have been borrowed. Since the current Micra is only offered as a five-door hatchback, could this new concept hint at a sportier model in the near future? Let’s hope so.

After first showcasing a line of Z-Spec accessories at the SEMA Show last year, Chevrolet has now announced it will move the new in-house aftermarkets parts lineup from concept to reality, debuting the first items on the new Sonic sub-compact.

Available parts include a new ground effects kit, exhaust tip, roof spoiler, mirror caps, grille surrounds and available 16- and 17-inch wheels. And of course there’s a tacky graphics package as well. Interior items are limited to aluminum sport pedals and sill plates, although GM has said more parts will be available in the near future.

Items will be available individually or as a complete package through dealers.

The Z-Spec line is intended to draw in younger buyers to the brand’s new Sonic sub-compact (a replacement for the Aveo), while also capitalizing on a market where individuality is something customers will pay for. The plan is similar to what Scion has done to attract younger buyers.

Revealed at the Detroit Auto Show this year, the Sonic is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder and is expected to get 40-mpg on the highway.

Chevy will display several customized Sonic models at the NY Auto Show starting on April 20th. See AutoGuide’s coverage here for all the photos.

GALLERY: Chevrolet Sonic Z-Spec

The Tata Nano has had a roller coaster start to its life. It garnered great interest when it was launched as the cheapest new car in the world, costing around $2300.

That certainly helped push sales, with Tata selling 9000 units in July 2010. However, after a few vehicles caught fire and concerns over its safety became public, sales took a plunge and resulted in just 509 units sold in November.

Now it seems Tata has addressed the safety and reliability concerns for its city runabout, and along with good finance deals to tempt more people into their showrooms, Tata is now doubling production to met demand. Their hope is to sell 20,000 units per-month for the next fiscal year. Only time will tell if their plan works out.

There are no plans for a North American launch anytime soon.

[Source: Autocar]

As rumored, Subaru will unveil its all-new 2012 Impreza sedan at the New York Auto Show. Partially revealed with a profile photo, Subaru promises its new compact sedan will be the most fuel efficient all-wheel drive vehicle available in North America, with a 36-mpg rating.

Subaru has said it will showcase both the four-door sedan version of the Impreza as well as a 5-door hatchback.

What isn’t clear is if the new Impreza’s 36-mpg rating is a highway rating or average fuel economy.

While the profile picture doesn’t give an in-dept look at the car, it’s easy to see that Subaru has toned down the dramatic styling of the concept, which was unveiled at the LA Auto Show last year..

See AutoGuide’s complete 2011 NY Auto Show preview and coverage here.

Ford‘s new Focus ST is set to get a little brother. Planned to launch in 2012, the Fiesta ST will deliver hot hatch thrills in an even smaller package, with the B-Class car getting a 180-hp version of Ford’s 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine.

What isn’t clear is if the Fiesta ST will make its way to North America. The market for sub-compacts on this side of the Atlantic is already small and there’s no competition to speak of. In Europe, however, B-Class cars make up a significant portion of the cars on the road, and the Fiesta ST already has rivals like the Renaultsport Clio 200 and Seat Ibiza Cupra, not to mention the Polo GTI.

In addition, an ST model makes sense, helping to draw a correlation between the Fiesta WRC rally program and the brand’s street cars.

While unlikely, Ford is making a habit of bringing their European models to North America. We just hope this is one of them.

[Source: AutoCar]

As a part of a strategy to grow its presence with a younger demographic, Lexus will continue to showcase wildly modified versions of its CT200h hybrid hatchback, debuting the latest tuner creation at the New York Auto Show.

Build by the team at Fox Marketing, the car promises a widebody kit and some sort of forced induction setup that’s sure to deliver far more than the factory 134-hp Prius powerplant.

In February Lexus showcased a custom Five Axis tuned version of the CT200h. In a dark shade of black, we’re expecting something shockingly bright from Fox Marketing.

Look for full details and live photos from AutoGuide’s 2011 New York Auto Show coverage starting April 20th.

GALLERY: Five Axis Project CT

Read AutoGuide’s 2011 Lexus CT200h Review here

Everything that is old is new again. That is the mantra of pretty much every single major car company. Volkswagen has the Beetle (a newer version of which will be launched later this year), Mini has had the reborn Cooper for awhile now, and Fiat recently introduced the new 500 in the North American market. All these models mimic their predecessors in terms of styling.

If rumors are to be believed, Renault now also wants to jump into the premium hatchback market by bringing a new version of the Le Car. Called the Renault 5 or R5 in other markets, the car was a huge success in Europe, Asia and Africa, while it hardly made an impression in the North American market, despite having a successful racing career around the globe.

If Renault does decide to put a new Le Car into production, it can easily be based on their Clio platform to save money and speed up the process of development. Will this model ever make it to North America? While there are no plans for Renault to make a comeback, the Le Car could be sold through select Nissan dealers, just like Fiat is doing with some Chrysler dealers regarding the 500.

[Source: InsideLine]

Kia‘s new designs are helping brand the Korean automaker in a more positive light, particularly here in North America with the stylish new Optima. But in other parts of the world mid-size sedan’s don’t hold the same cache, nor do they sell all that well, so Kia is looking at alternative ways to create a boost in brand image.

In a recent interview, Kia product boss Benny Oeyen commented on three such methods, including a hot hatch, convertible or coupe. While the coupe idea, along the lines of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, may seem like the obvious choice, it’s the hot hatch the is the most likely. The reason for this is the importance of small hatchbacks in other parts of the world, like in Europe were sub-compact models, like Kia’s new 2012 Rio, make up the majority of sales for automakers.

A Rio hot-hatch is also the easiest to bring to market, as it would be based on the existing new car. Plus, it helps put the brand focus exactly where Kia wants it to be.

Exactly what a juiced-up Rio might bring to the table is unclear, with standard models in Europe getting 1.4-liter gasoline and diesel engines as well as a tiny 1.25-liter gas engine. One possibility is the 138-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that’s expected to come standard in the North American model, although for a ‘hot hatch’ we’d like to see more.

[Source: AutoCar]

Suzuki may not have much of a profile in the United States, but their Swift compact hatchback has been a hit with both critics and consumers in other markets, and the Geneva Auto Show will be the platform for Suzuki to launch a thinly veiled ”concept” version of the new Swift.

With the current Swift regarded as one of the sportier hatches on the market, the “S-Concept” designation will likely play on that theme, but all Suzuki has shown so far is a teaser rendering of the front of the car. Regardless, we wouldn’t be surprised if the concept played up Suzuki’s rally heritage as well.

[Source: LeftLane News]

Lexus will use the upcoming Chicago Auto Show to keep the focus on its new CT200h hybrid luxury hatchback.

To do so Lexus will have on display a new concept version of the car build by tuning-house and design studio Five Axis. A single teaser sketch of the car has been released, with the CT sporting some custom aero work, a Tein suspension, 19-inch wheels, Stoptech brakes and a custom touch-screen interface.

Five Axis has a long-standing relationship with Lexus and Toyota, having build numerous SEMA vehicle for them over the years.

Targeted at younger buyers, Lexus has already shown an F-Sport styling and handling package for the CT and company execs have admitted they are looking at delivering a more potent version of the car. Could this wild concept preview such a model? We can only hope.

In addition, Lexus will show off two of this year’s SEMA vehicles, the VIP Auto Salon LS600hL and the Paul Tolson, EST Styling RX450h.

[Source: MotorAuthority]

Read AutoGuide’s 2011 Lexus CT200h Review Here

And get more CT200h news and info at CT200hForum.com

Although the current MKVI Volkswagen Golf has only been on the market since 2009, the car will have an extremely short product cycle, as Volkswagen confirmed that the next generation car will debut “end of 2012 or early 2013″.

Although German media reports said that the car will hit showrooms in November of 2012, VW declined to divulge specifics. The new Golf will be built on the all-new cost saving MQB platform, but will follow the new Audi A3, the first vehicle to go on sale using the MQB chassis. The MQB platform will be shared across a substantial number of brands, and is expected to underpin 3 million vehicles per year.

[Source: Reuters]

It’s not even for sale in North America yet, but over in Japan they’re already hard at work modifying the all-new Toyota Vitz – sold here as the Yaris.

A marked improvement on the current model in the style department, the G Sports team at Gazoo Racing have customized this little hatch with a selection of accessories including a complete aero kit. Of note is an aggressive race-inspired rear diffuser, as well as a subtle roof spoiler. As expected, there’s a lowered suspension, plus a set of 18-inch light weight wheels for this sub-compact.

Toyota isn’t one for building driver’s cars, but the G Sports line is helping give enthusiasts a reason to buy Toyota products – or at least they are in Japan. However, as it stands, this package is still just a concept.

GALLERY: G Sports Concept Vitz

Nissan‘s entry-level car in North America gets a few upgrades for 2011, namely power windows and door locks as standard equipment on all trim levels, base; S and SL.

On S models, the previous Power Plus package, which added these features has been renamed the Plus package and simply adds cruise control and remote keyless entry.

Nissan is keen to maintain the Versa’s appeal as a value-driven small car, as a result, the base sedan with a five-speed manual gearbox has a MSRP of $9,990 which is unchanged from last year, ranking as one of the cheapest new cars on the market in the U.S.; though hatchback models are still more expensive than their sedan counterparts.

See after the jump for a full rundown of U.S. market pricing for the 2011 model.

Continue Reading…

Lexus has just released pricing on its new entry-level hybrid hatchback and, as promised, it will be the most affordable car in the brand’s lineup. Priced at $29,120 it comes in at just under the IS250 and priced a few hundred dollars less than its main rival, the Audi A3 TDI.

With delivery charges the CT comes in at $29,995 and a Premium trim model with a moonroof and heated seats costs just slightly more at $30,900 ($31,775 with destination).

Pricing is not official, but was accidentally leaked on the Lexus of Reno site (and since removed).

[Source: LexusEnthusiast]

Read AutoGuide’s Review of the 2011 Lexus CT200h by Clicking Here

And check out the full pricing and specs after the jump:

Continue Reading…

Volkswagen‘s hottest of hatchbacks will make its way to U.S. soil, confirms the German automaker. A spiritual successor to the R32, the Golf R is part of VW’s new ‘R’ performance brand, and gets its motivation from VW’s always-impressive 2.0T turbocharged 4-cylinder rather than the old V6 in the R32.

While VW hasn’t released specs on the engine, in Europe it receives the same state of tune as in the Audi TT-S, making 265-hp and 258 ft-lbs of torque. So far, VW USA will only say it’s a,”significant hp increase over GTI.”

Mated to VW’s 4MOTION AWD system and offered exclusively with a six-speed manual, the car should be able to hit 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds.

The upgrades don’t stop with the engine, however, with the full R model getting 18-inch wheels, a center-exit dual exhaust, upgraded brakes, a lowered suspension and a more aggressive stability control program. VW also plans to offer the car in both 2-door and 4-door hatch versions.

A special R interior will also be included with a special shift knob and steering wheel, although it’s not likely to be exactly like the Euro-spec model and we’d be surprised to see the same sports seats here in the U.S.

VW is likely to debut the U.S.-spec Golf R at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show as it moves ahead with a plan to uphold its brand with special high-performance models while it simultaneously pursues a plan to offer lower-priced volume models like the new Jetta and upcoming Passat replacement.

GALLERY: Euro-Spec VW Golf R

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…

While still less than certain, the Volkswagen Golf R is reportedly set to be offered in North America next year, with a likely announcement set for the upcoming Detroit Auto Show in January.

The ultra-hot hatch has already been on sale in Europe for close to a year, making the GTI look tame in comparison with a 265-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder – the same engine offered in the Audi TT-S. Mated to VW’s 4MOTION AWD system and using a dual-clutch transmission, VW claims a 0-62 mph time of 5.5 seconds.

GALLERY: Volkswagen Golf R

GALLERY: Volkswagen Golf R Debut in Frankfurt

[Source: Car and Driver]

After officially revealing the car earlier this week Audi has now released some B-roll video footage of the RS3 hot hatch. Powered by the same turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder found in the TT-RS, the RS3 Sportback makes 340-hp and 332 ft-lbs of torque. Mated to a 7-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission and using Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system the car can blast to 62-mph in just 4.6 seconds.

Added grip and improved handling come thanks to 19-inch wheels with 235/39/19 front tires and 225/35/19 rear tires (yes, the front tires are wider). That matches up with a front track that is just over an inch wider as well, while the overall ride height has been dropped by one inch. An ultra-precise 16.2:1 steering ratio makes the RS3 really turn when you point it.

Helping to cut weight, the wider front tires are now made of carbon fiber.

Improved braking is also a part of the package thanks to 4-piston front brake calipers with massive 14.57-inch rotors (370mm), while the rear brakes run 12.2-inch rotors.

The exterior of the RS3 isn’t quite as dramatic as past RS models, with the fenders bulging less, still, there’s a massive front grille with more aggressively designed side intakes. Side skirts, matte-aluminum mirror housings, a roof spoiler, black diffuser, two exhaust pipes and several RS3 badges round out the design.

Inside, it’s pure Audi luxury with Nappa leather, silver stitching and piano black or Aluminum Race trim, with a flat-bottom steering wheel.

Audi has made several nods to enthusiasts with this car, including a stability control system that can be turned completely off, while including a lap timer in the driver information screen. Plus, a Sport button activates flaps in the exhaust system to really let the engine howl.

Unfortunately, you’ll have to be a rich enthusiasts to afford the RS3 Sportback, with the price set at 49,900 Euros. That’s $68,000… yikes.

Sadly, that number is mostly irrelevant on this side of the Atlantic as Audi has announced now plans to sell the RS3 in North America.

GALLERY: Audi RS3

Check out the video after the jump:

Continue Reading…

With the current A3 model nearing the end of its production cycle, Audi will send the car out with a bang, announcing an all new RS3 model. Putting even the Golf R to shame, the RS3 Sportback produces an incredible 340-hp and 332 ft-lbs of torque from the same turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine found in the TT-RS. Mated to a 7-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission and using Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system the car can blast to 62-mph in just 4.6 seconds.

Added grip and improved handling come thanks to 19-inch wheels with 235/39/19 front tires and 225/35/19 rear tires (yes, the front tires are wider). That matches up with a front track that is just over an inch wider as well, while the overall ride height has been dropped by one inch. An ultra-precise 16.2:1 steering ratio makes the RS3 really turn when you point it.

Helping to cut weight, the wider front tires are now made of carbon fiber.

Improved braking is also a part of the package thanks to 4-piston front brake calipers with massive 14.57-inch rotors (370mm), while the rear brakes run 12.2-inch rotors.

The exterior of the RS3 isn’t quite as dramatic as past RS models, with the fenders bulging less, still, there’s a massive front grille with more aggressively designed side intakes. Side skirts, matte-aluminum mirror housings, a roof spoiler, black diffuser, two exhaust pipes and several RS3 badges round out the design.

Inside, it’s pure Audi luxury with Nappa leather, silver stitching and piano black or Aluminum Race trim, with a flat-bottom steering wheel.

Audi has made several nods to enthusiasts with this car, including a stability control system that can be turned completely off, while including a lap timer in the driver information screen. Plus, a Sport button activates flaps in the exhaust system to really let the engine howl.

Unfortunately, you’ll have to be a rich enthusiasts to afford the RS3 Sportback, with the price set at 49,900 Euros. That’s $68,000… yikes.

Sadly, that number is mostly irrelevant on this side of the Atlantic as Audi has announced now plans to sell the RS3 in North America.

GALLERY: Audi RS3 Sportback

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…