Crime is something often associated with Detroit, though the many who’ve been there will tell you the Motor City doesn’t deserve the bad wrap it frequently seems to get in the press.

However, an incident this week during the North American International Auto Show festivities did nothing to quell such notions.

BMW, like many other major manufacturers, besides having a prominent display of new vehicles on the floor at Cobo Hall, also brings in cars to shuttle executives and other guests, from the show to hotels and functions. However, one of these cars suffered at the hands of thieves.

Having finished its shuttle duties, a BMW 750iX was due to be loaded on the transporter and shipped back to the company’s New Jersey headquarters. However after a valet had pulled it out in front of the Westin Book Cadillac hotel, ready for loading, two thieves jumped in the idling car and drove off.

As of this morning, police were still looking for the vehicle. “It’s an unfortunate incident,” said BMW spokeswoman Stacy Morris.

However despite this irritating setback, BMW stated that it is still firmly committed to the North American International Auto Show.

[Source: MSNBC]

After going through the equivalent of 160,000 miles worth of grueling tasks, Ford will take apart an Ecoboost V6 selected for the evaluation process, in a bid to demonstrate that the boosted V6 can be a viable alternative to traditional V8s.

The V6, which was randomly pulled from the regular production line, was put into action in a variety of tasks, from racing in the Baja 1000 to towing over 11,000 pounds for 24 hours straight. At the end of the test process, Ford dynoed the motor and found that it still produced 360 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, just as it did when it left the assembly line.

[Source: Ford]

Hit the jump to see the official press release

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The German automotive giant BMW is about to make a big splash at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, with no less than three unveilings.

First up will be a slightly tweaked version of the current 1-series coupe and convertible, which is getting a face-lift. The recently announced 1-series M Coupe will also be present at the show, which will surely get the enthusiasts pulse racing.

But this won’t be the only new M-edition car on the stand, as BMW will also be showing a version of its new X3, with an M-sport package. (An X3 M model, rumored to be in the future product lineup, is illustrated above).

Unfortunately it  won’t be packing any extra grunt, but it will have a sportier appearance, thanks to revised bumpers and sills, and it will also be wearing 20-inch alloy wheels. Since it is just an appearance package, it will be available with any engine option and considering the X3 xDrive35i already makes 300-hp, it’s not exactly a slouch.

In addition, the all-new 6-Series Convertible will officially be revealed with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 400-hp and will send power to its rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Check back January 10th for complete coverage of the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

[Source: Evo]

Honda will unveil a concept of the upcoming 9th generation Civic at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

The updated Civic will go on sale this spring, but Honda will be showing the car at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) and via a live webcast on January 10, 2011. Rumors have suggested a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder as a new base engine, while an Si model could get an engine as large as the powerful 2.4-liter 4-cylinder offered in the Acura TSX. Stay tuned to AutoGuide as more updates become available and see the rest of our 2011 Detroit Auto Show preview news by clicking here.

Hit the jump for the official press release

Check out the 9th gen Civic forum at www.9thgencivicforum.com for more info

[Source: Honda]

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Toyota seems to be catching on to this whole social media thing. Last week the automaker teased us with the Prius MPV on its Facebook page and now the folks in the PR department have used Twitter to announce that the second Prius model will debut at the Detroit Auto Show this January.

The vehicle is described as an, “all-new model w/ more comfort, style and versatility. ”

Based on the same architecture, the Prius MPV could get three rows of seats and sliding second row doors. Rumors have hinted that the new model could get a more advanced Lithium Ion battery back, but we’re tempted to think important advances like that would arrive in the original Prius first.

The Prius MPV is just the first of what is expected to be many new Prius models, with a smaller Prius, based on the FT-CH Concept, likely to follow.

[Source: Toyota's Twitter Feed]

Rumors of a C-Class Coupe have been circulating for quite some time now and according to a new report by AutoCar, we won’t have to wait much longer for Mercedes‘s newest two-door. The destined-to-be-popular coupe version of the C-Class is slated to debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January .

Sources at the company have also confirmed that a high-powered AMG version of the C-Class Coupe will arrive shortly afterward. Mercedes could still use the 6.2-liter V8 that powers the current C63 sedan, although its more likely that AMG will opt to use one of the company’s new turbocharged units. AMG has just launched a new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 with 536-hp, although that certainly seems excessive for the C-Class. Instead, it could get the brand’s new twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8, which still makes an impressive 429-hp and 516 ft-lbs of torque. That larger AMG motor would, however, be perfect for a C63 AMG Black Series.

According to AutoCar‘s sources, however, we won’t get a cabriolet version of the C-Class coupe. The sedan has already been on the market for quite some time and so the coupe will get a shortened product life (just four years) while a new version is created, based off the upcoming next-gen C-Class.

[Source: AutoCar]

Why wait for the official unveiling of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe at the Detroit Auto Show four months from now when you can see it now – thanks to the artistry of Jon Sibal. Designed using BMW teaser images, spy photos and some insider information we’ve been told that this rendering is very close to the real thing.

Shown in a stunning Valencia Metallic Orange the front bumper mimics that of the E92 M3 but with sharper angles, while the fender vents are larger than on previous M cars, helping to accentuate the flared fenders. The side skirts are also similar to those found on the M3, but again are more angular. Also of note is a slightly raised hood, black (Shadowline) kidney grille slats and a ducktail rear spoiler.

And perhaps most exciting is news of a carbon fiber roof, although this item may get cut as BMW tries to cut costs in an effort to make the car as affordable as possible.

Other items of note include white LED angle eye headlights, as well as M3 Competition 19-inch wheels with M3 brakes.

As for the engine, BMW is still mum on that aspect, but its believed to be a modified N54 turbocharged inline-six making around 350-hp.

A brand desperately in search of a clear direction, Acura will soon deliver a hybrid model says Honda CEO Takanobu Ito.

The announcement was made by Ito just prior to introducing the latest hybrid in the Honda lineup, the CR-Z. Ito did not comment on if an Acura hybrid would use Honda’s IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) hybrid technology, which by all accounts is outdated compared to full-hybrid systems currently on the market from company’s like Toyota and Ford.

Acura has struggled to find itself in the luxury marketplace since it moved away from entry-level models like the RSX and decided not to offer competitive top-tier products to compete with vehicles like the Lexus LS. Plans to build a successor to the NSX have all but fallen apart, even though the company recently debuted what appears to be a very capable replacement (the HSV-010). Honda has said that model is only for racing.

In the past Ito has commented that Honda has no plans to deliver a V8 engine, meaning that Acura won’t be competing with Lexus in the premium flagship segment any time soon. Meanwhile, the Acura brand has launched the ZDX, a coupe-styled crossover, aimed at a very small segment of the market.

It’s likely the first hybrid from Acura will be based on the ucoming relacement for the RL, however, an entry-level hybrid model is also a possibility.

With no official presence at the Detroit Auto Show, Nissan couldn’t resist showcasing its new Leaf electric car. On display alongside several other electric models in an area of the show dubbed Electric Avenue, Nissan claims that the Leaf is no concept, but an actual production model. It certainly looks the part, with a production quality exterior and interior, high-tech features and plenty of functionality.

The Leaf is powered by lithium-ion battery packs and is rated at 80kW/280Nm, (107-hp and 207 ft-lbs of torque), which should make this sub-compact a sporty little car.

Nissan says it will be able to drive 100 miles on a single charge. The batteries will be able to be charged up to 80 percent in less than 30 minutes with a special quick charger, or in roughly eight hours through a standard 200V outlet. Nissan says that through extensive research the 100 mile range will be suitable for 70 percent of car buyers

Next year 5,000 vehicles will be available in five U.S. markets: the Phoenix-Tucson region of Arizona, Oregon, San Diego, Seattle and Tennessee. Fleet sales will also be offered in 2010, while full retails sales are planned for 2012.

GALLERY: Nissan Leaf

Tesla has a significant presence at the Detroit Auto Show and shared its section of the show floor with such revered brands as Audi and Lotus. Displaying three models, Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced that the company’s latest project, the Model S, is expected to be on sale in two years.

This fully-electric luxury sedan has a range of up to 300 miles and can hit 60 mph in just over 6 seconds. With room for five adults and two children, Tesla has previously announced that it hopes to sell the Model S for a retail price of 49,900 after a $7,500 federal tax credit. Both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive versions are planned.

In addition to the Model S news, Tesla displayed a Roadster model (the company’s original car), that recently drove across America.

Finally, an additional Roadster model is the brand’s 1,000th vehicle produced. Musk announced that the car will be auctioned-off with the proceeds going to help several environmental groups.

GALLERY: Tesla Model S

Hyundai’s Hope on Wheels program donated $50,000 to the Detroit Medical Center Children’s Hopsital of Michigan. The Hyundai Hope on Wheels Tour traveled across the nation and raised more than $1.3 million for pediatric cancer research, and the DMC Children’s Hospital as the final stop.

The $50,000 donation will fund research by the hospital’s pediactric neuro-oncologist Dr. Maxim Y. Yankelevich in developing new immunotherapy programs for children with brain tumors.

“Hyundai and its dealers have been committed to supporting the children, families and doctors battling childhood cancer for more than ten years,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. “Even in the face of tough economic times for our industry, we will not waver in our commitment to supporting the medical research and training that will produce better treatments, therapies, and one day, a cure.”

Cancer patients from the Children’s Hospital of Michigan had their handprints added to the Hyundai Hope on Wheels Santa Fe, joining the colorful handprints of children from across the country. Once the handprints were added, the car was moved to Hyundai’s display at the North American International Auto Show.

For more information on the Hyundai Hope on Wheels program, visit: www.hyundaihopeonwheels.org.

Gallery: Hyundai Hope on Wheels Santa Fe

Official release after the jump:

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Kia displayed one of its two race-prepped Forte Koups entered in the 2010 GRAND-AM Continental Tire Challenge Series at the Detroit Auto Show.

The #10 Infinity Kia Forte Koup will compete in the Street Tuner (ST) class with drivers Nic Jonsson and Andy Lally. Kia will enter a second  car, the #12 Forte Koup, with drivers Adam Burrows and Trevor Hopwood.

Take a look at the photo gallery to see details including the carbon fiber dash, chase cam and steering wheel controls.

Gallery: Kia Forte Koup GRAND-AM Continental Tire Challenge Series Race Car

Chinese manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) presented its e6 electric crossover at the Detroit Auto Show and announced plans to bring it to America later this year.

Powered by BYD’s Fe battery, the e6 boasts a range of 205 miles on a single charge in cruising mode, less than the 249 miles from previous reports but still pretty impressive. BYD says the e6 has a top speed of 87 mph and can go from 0 to 60 in under 14 seconds.

As a purely electric vehicle, the e6 produces zero emissions. BYD has also taken the extra step of making its Fe battery recyclable so there’s no worry about batteries leaking harmful chemicals in landfills.

The battery can be recharged through an ordinary household outlet or with BYD’s charging cabinets. In a video presentation, BYD showed its vision of charging stations using wind and solar power. We were a little disappointed BYD did not mention how long it would take to charge the battery to full however.

Gallery: 2010 BYD e6

Kia introduced a new special edition Soul dubbed the “Shadow Dragon” at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

From afar, the Shadow Dragon gives off a sinister impression with its black paint, but Kia kept its usual sense of fun at the car’s unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show. Kia’s press unveiling was presented like an infomercial, emcee’d by TV pitchman Anthony “Sully” Sullivan. With Sully calling the shots, models pulled the wrapping off the Shadow Dragon Soul, revealing a giant stuffed hamster sitting in the driver’s seat.

Featuring a matte black dragon design on the hood and rear, the Shadow Dragon Soul is based on the Soul+ like the other special editions the Denim and Ignation.

The black motif extends to the interior with black leather trimmed seats, the first leather seats on any Soul model.

The special edition Shadow Dragon Soul is now available in dealerships, priced at $18,195.

Gallery: 2010 Kia Shadow Dragon Soul

Official release after the jump:

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The coupe variant of the high-powered Cadillac CTS-V has just launched at the Detroit Auto Show, with an incredible 556-hp at 6100 rpm and 551 ft-lbs of torque at 3800 rpm. That’s enough to propel the 2+2 seater to 60 mph in an incredible 3.9 seconds.

But the CTS-V Coupe is so much more than a straight line performer, following in the Michelin PS2 tire marks of the V sedan – the first production four-door to run a sub eight minute lap time at Germany’s famed Nürburgring. In fact, the V Coupe should lop off a few more seconds thanks to a rear track that is one-inch wider than the sedan. With the same wheelbase as the four-door, the V Coupe also gets a lower center of gravity thanks to an overall height that is roughly 2-inches (51mm to be precise) lower. The front and rear overhangs are even shortened, with an overall length that is also reduced by 51mm.

Other performance highlights include 19-inch wheels and some massive brakes with high-performance Brembo six-piston front calipers with 15-inch rotors and four-piston rear calipers with 14.7-inch rotors. And helping out in terms of delivering a performance oriented (or comfort oriented) ride are GM’s amazing Magnetic Ride Control shocks, which monitor the road every millisecond and adjust shock pressure. First used on Corvettes, this technology is now used by the likes of Ferrari. For the CTS-V Coupe, Cadillac offers the shocks with two pre-sets, Tour and Sport, so a driver can set the car for their preferred driving mode.

As for how the car looks, well, Cadillac certainly didn’t disappoint. The CTS Coupe’s sleek profile gets a very masculine V treatment including some impressive big grilles up front, as well as a massive bulge in the hood to make room for all that engine. The overall look of the car is undeniably like the CTS, however, Caddy designers only carried over the headlights, front fenders and grille from the sedan, along with the instrument panel and center console on the inside.

And speaking of the inside, this was our first chance to get a look at the V Coupe’s interior. Along with some expected items like an Alcantara coated steering wheel and shifter, some extra details were added including light colored Alcantara inserts for the highly-bolstered seats (Recaros optional), with the same color used for stitching on the dash.

The new 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe will to go on sale in early Summer.

GALLERY: Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

Technically a mid-cycle refresh, Lincoln has decided to do more than just minor updates to its entry-level MKX crossover for 2011. An important model for Lincoln, the company says that more than half of MKX buyers are new to the brand and that seven in 10 of those buyers purchase another Lincoln.

Joining the rest of the Lincoln lineup, the 2011 MKX gets the new corporate (and controversially styled) oversized grille. Other major changes include a new 3.7-liter V6 engine that delivers best-in-class 305-hp and 280 ft-lbs of torque, an improvement of 15 and 12 percent respectively.

Offered exclusively with a new six-speed automatic transmission, the more powerful engine also offers improved fuel economy, with 25 mpg highway, which Lincoln claims is another best-in-class feature.

And while all this is good, the biggest innovation on the 2011 MKX is the application of MyLincoln Touch – the first use of MyLincoln Touch or MyFord Touch in a road car. Essentially the next generation of Ford’s SYNC technology, the MyLincoln Touch system is a complete user interface for all aspects of the car and can be operated via a touch screen LCD display, voice commands and a steering wheel-mounted five-way controller (much like an iPod). It includes two 4.2-inch LCD screens in the instrument cluster and an 8-way LCD screen on the center stack. Due to the three different modes of controlling the system, there are no longer any conventional knobs or switches on the center stack. Even the audio volume can be adjusted by sliding your hand across a smooth surface.

As for the screen itself, it’s separated into four areas: Entertainment, Phone, Navigation and Climate. Each section is color coded to distinguish it and to make it easy to find/remember. We’ve seen the system in action and it certainly is easy to use.

Lincoln and Ford are betting on the My Touch system and plan to offer it in 80 percent of Ford vehicles in the future, including on the new 2011 Ford Focus.

GALLERY: 2011 Lincoln MKX

GALLERY: 2011 Lincoln MKX Official Pics

Official release after the jump:

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Cadillac wasn’t secretive that it was showing a concept version of it’s upcoming XTS flagship, but GM’s luxury brand certainly did hide the fact that it was a plug-in hybrid. Until now.

Set to be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show later today, the XTS Platinum Concept certainly looks like a true flagship for the premium brand. Finally, there’s a Cadillac that wouldn’t look out-of-sorts parked next to a Mercedes S-Class. Size wise, it’s definitely large measuring 203.5-inches (3.5-inches longer than an S-Class), however, the wheelbase is considerably less at 111.7-inches (about 8-inches less than an S-Class). It is also roughly one inch wider than an S-Class.

Sadly, the XTS isn’t rear drive, however, it does feature an all-wheel drive setup. Added handling and agility are provided thanks to 20-inch wheels, and GM’s Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) shocks that measure the road every millisecond and adjust just as fast.

As for the plug-in hybrid system, it uses an electric motor, lithium-ion battery and a 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 gasoline engine to make 350-hp and 295 ft-lbs of torque. Capable of operating as a conventional hybrid, thanks to the plug-in capability, Cadillac claims it can achieve up to twice the efficiency of a conventional hybrid in city driving. The lithium-ion battery can be charged fully in just five hours using a conventional household outlet.

With an imposing look and a powerful and efficient engine, we’re possibly most impressed by the car’s interior. As a concept, it takes Caddy’s “Platinum” line philosophy to the extreme, using ultra high-grade materials and keeping with the Platinum mantra to hand cut and sew the interior leather. There’s also plenty of suede and we even have to admit the wood trim (which we typically hate) looks stunning.

The Cadillac XTS is scheduled to go into production in the near future and we’ll be sure to keep you updated on how close to the concept the production model will be.

GALLERY: Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept

Official release after the jump:

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BMW has officially unveiled a new entry-level version of its flagship 7 series sedan at the Detroit Auto Show. Priced from $71,025, it undercuts the current 750i by roughly $11,000 bringing the 7-Series into a slightly more affordable bracket.

Using BMW’s twin-turbo inline-six cylinder engine, the 740i (and extended-wheelbase 740Li) make 315-hp at 5800 rpm and 330 ft-lbs of torque from 1600-4500 rpm. That’s V8 power from a six-cylinder. No fuel-economy numbers have yet to be released, but expected the 740i to undercut the 750 by a considerable margin.

Both the BMW 740i and BMW 740Li will be available with all 7 Series options including the M Sport, driver assistance, luxury seating, rear entertainment and BMW Individual Composition packages. The 740Li is priced from $75,425.

The 740i and 740Li join the V8 750i/750Li and V12 760Li in BMW’s flagship line in North America.

GALLERY: BMW 740i

Official release after the jump:

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Hyundai officially introduced the 2010 Santa Fe with two new engine options, a more efficient 3.5L v6 and a 2.4L inline-four.

Mated with a six-speed automatic “Shiftronic” transmission, the four-cylinder claims better fuel economy than the 2009 2.7L V6 Santa Fe. With 175 hp and 169 ft-lbs of torque, less power than the old 2.7L, Hyundai says the new engine provides quicker 0 to 60 acceleration than its predecessor.

The new 3.5L V6 replaces last year’s 3.3L V6. According to Hyundai, the new engine provides 276 hp (compared to the 3.3L’s 242 hp) and 248 ft-lb. of torque (versus 226 ft-lb.) The new engine is also more fuel efficient, rating 20 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway.

The 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe will be available in three trim levels, the GLS, SE and Limited.

The GLS model comes with the four-cylinder engine, six-speed manual transmission (automatic is optional) and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The sportier SE version comes with the V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission and 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

The Santa Fe Limited (seen in the photo above) offers a choice of the I4 and the V6. It also offers features from the SE plus leather seating, heated front seats, chrome accents, metal scuff plates and the SE’s optional power tilt-and-slide sunroof .

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe

With the Jeep Grand Cherokee set to launch later this year as a 2011 model, Chrysler’s Jeep brand is adding a new Liberty trim level as well as two new option packages for the Wrangler. Officially debuting at the Detroit Auto Show are the Jeep Liberty Renegade, Jeep Wrangler Mountain Edition and Jeep Wrangler Islander Edition.

Positioned between the Sport and Limited models, the Renegade trim level is offered in Natural Green Pearl, Deep Water Blue Pearl, Bright Silver Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, Stone White and in a Renegade-exclusive Salsa Red Pearl.

Highlights include Mineral Gray 16-inch wheels with all-terrain 235/70/16 tires, hood graphics, fog lamps, skid plated, tow hooks, a silver-painted roof rack, as well as dark metallic painted fender flares, side sills, front and rear fascias and side moldings. Inside are new cloth seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, drifwood accented bezels and a leather wrapped center console. A 210-hp 3.7-liter V6 comes standard with Selec-Trac II active four-wheel-drive and will be available stating the first quarter of 2010.

The first of two new packages offered for the Wrangler is the Islander Edition, which returns to the Jeep lineup after 20 years. Islander Editions are based on the Wrangler Sport model and are offered in one of four colors: Surf Blue Pearl, Stone White, Bright Sliver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal.

Highlights include a “Tiki Bob” decal on the hood, along with latitude and longitude coordinates, black side stes and 17-inch wheels with 32-inch tires. Inside Islander Edition models get dark gray seats with surf blue inserts, blue stitching and Tiki Bob logos embroidered on the seats. Also included is blue stitching on the steering wheel and Mopar floor mats.

As for the Mounted Edition, it’s based on the Wrangler Sport S package and comes with “Mountain” decaling as well as latitude and longitude coordinates. It’s available in Rescue Green Metallic, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl and Deep Water Blue Pearl, with high-gloss Mineral Gray 17-inch Moab wheels, as well as high gloss paint for the bumper and grille. Also included are side steps and 32-inch tires, plus special seat inserts on the inside with the “Mountain” logo.

The Island Edition package retails for $1,120, and the Mountain Edition goes for $1,820. Both option packs are available on the two-door Jeep Wrangler and four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4×4 models.

GALLERY: Jeep Wrangler Islander Edition

GALLERY: Jeep Wrangler Mountain Edition

GALLERY: Jeep Liberty Renegade

BMW has just released an all-new high-performance version of the Z4 at the Detroit Auto Show. Called the Z4 sDrive35is, this roadster’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six gets a new air intake system and higher boost pressure to produce a bump in power. With an extra 35-hp and 32 ft-lbs of torque, the new model makes 335-hp and 332 ft-lbs in total. An overboost function will deliver an added boost of torque, bringing the total torque number to 369 ft-lbs. That’s just 11 ft-lbs shy of the M5’s V10 motor.

The added power make the Z4 sDrive35is noticeably faster with a 0-60 mph time of just 4.7 seconds, thanks in part to BMW’s impressive new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

In addition to the engine upgrades, this new model gets M Aerodynamics and an adaptive M Suspension that uses electronically controlled shock absorbers as well as a ride height which has been lowered by 10mm. A set of 18-inch wheels come standard with light-weight 19s optional.

GALLERY: BMW Z4 sDrive35is

The Aveo RS Concept, which Chevy has just debuted at the Detroit Auto Show, is intended to give a glimpse at what the future Aveo small car will be like. If the production model is close, we’ll be impressed.

As it stands the Aveo RS is a mean-looking sub-compact with a Mitsubishi EVO-styled front fascia and a wide stance with flared fenders. To give the car a sleek look, the rear door handles are integrated into the rear pillar. In addition, out back there’s a tuner-inspired dual-port central exhaust outlet.

Inside, there’s more room thanks to the larger platform and we love the motorcycle-inspired gauge display and tachometer. There’s plenty of dark black leather, as well, with blue stitching to go with the Aveo’s Boracay Blue exterior paint.

The Aveo RS concept is powered by the same 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec motor as found in the new Chevy Cruze. That being said, it makes 138-hp (plenty for a sub-compact and far more than any current production sub-compact offers). GM hasn’t released fuel economy numbers, but with the Cruze capable of 40 mpg on the highway, the Aveo RS concept should be able to match that. Better still, enthusiasts will appreciate the six-speed manual transmission.

All this sounds wonderful, but this is a concept and not the real thing. Besides, a 138-hp motor is way above what the competition are offering in the sub-compact segment. When it does launch as a 2011 model it certainly wont come with the 1.4-liter turbocharged motor as standard, but we can hold out hope that an RS model will be offered.

Introduced by North American Exterior Design boss Michael Simcoe at the Detroit Auto Show, Simcoe said that the Aveo RS Concept gives an idea of what the production Aveo will be like, saying that it will be, “a bit roomier, more refined and, frankly, have a lot more attitude.”

That being said, we have high-hopes for the design of the production model.

GALLERY: Chevy Aveo RS Concept

MINI’s new Countryman crossover hasn’t even officially debuted and yet the creative minds at the fun British car company have already turned the platform into a new concept: the MINI Beachcomber Concept.

Based on the Countryman’s platform, the MINI Beachcomber Concept takes the crossover’s capable ALL4 all-wheel drive system and sets it free on the sand-dunes with a dune-buggy style, plus the open air Jeep-like feeling of no doors or roof.

The concept also takes cues from the original MINI Moke, especially the lack of sheetmetal and the radiator style grille.

MINI won’t comment on production possibilities, but even if it does make it to market, it won’t be for a while. The Countryman crossover is set to debut first. MINI has promised more news on that new model in a month’s time, with the vehicle’s official on-sale date set for late 2010 in Europe and early 2011 in the U.S.

GALLERY: MINI Beachcomber Concept Debut in Detroit

Buick introduced a high-tech, higher-spec version of the new Regal at the Detroit Auto Show.

Dubbed the Buick Regal GS, paying homage to Buick’s Gran Sport heritage while showing the potential of the company’s new sedan.

“We designed the Regal GS to explore the appeal of a high-performance variant of the Regal,” said Craig Bierley, product marketing director for Buick. “Like the Regal, the Regal GS is based on the award-winning Opel Insignia, and we believe it will reinvigorate Buick’s storied Gran Sport legacy.”

The Regal GS has a lower body than the regular Regal and features two additional vertical front air intakes, forged aluminum 20-inch wheels, performance tires and racing-inspired steering wheel and pedals.

Powered by a Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged engine with six-speed manual transmission, the Regal GS claims 255 horses and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission directs that torque to an adaptive all-wheel drive system for improved performance. Buick estimates a 0 to 60 time of 6.0 seconds.

The Regal GS uses the Interactive Drive Control System chassis technology found in 2.0L turbo versions of the Regal CXL. The IDCS provides different driving options that adjust suspension, throttle response and steering sensitivity. While the Regal CXL has “normal” and “sport” riding modes, the concept car has a third “GS” mode that further enhances performance.

Gallery: Buick Regal GS Concept

Official release after the jump:

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