Cadillac: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:

CTS SEDAN: A 3-liter direct-injection V6 replaces the indirect-injected 3.6 as the base engine; output is 270 hp and 223 lb-ft, and the engine runs on regular fuel. The 304 hp 3.6 liter direct-injected V6 will continue to be offered as an option. New features include a cabin air filtration system, suede-covered steering wheel and shifter, and optional 19" polished aluminum wheels.

CTS SPORT WAGON: (photo) Cadillac has announced a station wagon version of the CTS for 2010. Though slightly shorter than the CTS sedan, the CTS Sport Wagon offers 25 feet of cargo space, accessible through a power-operated liftgate. Like the CTS sedan, the CTS Sport Wagon offers several powertrain choices: 3.0 and 3.6 liter direct-injection V6s offering 270 and 304 hp respectively; rear- or all-wheel-drive; and three levels of suspension, ranging from cushy to sporty.

2010 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon test drive
2010 Cadillac Sport Wagon photo gallery
CTS-V SEDAN: The 556 hp terror returns for 2010, now with an optional wood trim interior package.

DTS: Aside from a couple of new paint colors, the DTS is unchanged for 2010.

ESCALADE: The 6.2 liter V8 now gets an Active Fuel Management system that can shut down four cylinders for increased fuel economy. New side thorax airbags and a revised inner door design provide improved side-impact protection. The clock from the Platinum Edition is now standard in all models, the parking brake release has been revised, and a new battery saver shuts off power when the battery runs low from extended accessory use. The Escalade Hybrid gets flex-fuel (E85) capability and a taller rear-axle ratio for better fuel economy.

SRX: Cadillac's small crossover has been redesigned for 2010. Power comes from a 3.0 liter direct-injected 3-liter V6 producing 265 horsepower, and the new SRX features a Haldex all-wheel-drive system that can transfer up to 100% of the power to the front or rear and an electronic limited-slip rear differential that can deliver up to 85% of rear axle power to one wheel, which Cadillac says improves both traction and handling.

STS: The STS gets two new paint colors, but no other changes.

STS-V: Sadly, the 469 hp supercharged hot-rod STS has been discontinued.

XLR/XLR-V: Cadillac's hardtop-convertible Corvette clone has been discontinued for 2010.

BEYOND 2010:

CTS COUPE: (photo) The long-awaited coupe joins the CTS lineup as a 2011 model. Powertrain choices will be similar to the CTS Sedan, and a V version will follow.

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe photo gallery
NEW SMALL COUPE/SEDAN: Cadillac will add a new entry-level luxury car that will be smaller and (presumably) less expensive than the CTS. The new car will employ rear-wheel-drive and will be available as both a coupe and a sedan, with styling similar to the CTS and STS.

NEW LARGE SEDAN: Cadillac will field a single new large car that will replace both the STS and the DTS. The styling model I saw had traditional lines similar to that of the DTS, although the sharply-raked rear window resembles other Cadillac cars. GM has not announced a driveline layout, although the new car is rumored to share its platform with the Buick LaCrosse, which uses a transverse engine and either front- or all-wheel-drive.

Buick: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:

ENCLAVE: Premium stereos now include a USB port for media players. New options include 20" wheels and a backup camera with a screen in the rear view mirror. The optional navigation system now features real-time traffic reports via XM NavTraffic.

LACROSSE/ALLURE: (photo) Buick's mid-size sedan is all new, with bold styling intended to bring some much-needed attention to this oft-overlooked sedan. CX and CXL models will initially be powered by an all-new 255 horsepower 3.0 liter V6 with direct fuel injection coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission; later in the model year, the CX will get a 182 hp 2.4 liter four-cylinder direct-injected engine as standard. CX models utilize front-wheel-drive, while the CXL offers optional all-wheel-drive. The top-of-the-line CXS gets a 280 hp 3.6 liter direct-injected V6, 6-speed automatic and front-wheel-drive. Available features include adaptive headlights, a blind spot warning system, and a DVD entertainment system. Because the word "LaCrosse" has unsavory connotations in Quebec French, the car will once again be known as the Allure in Canada.

2010 Buick LaCrosse test drive
2010 Buick LaCrosse photo gallery
LUCERNE: The big Buick rolls into 2010 with minor changes. The fog lights and rocker panels from last year's Super are now standard across the board, there are some new paint choices (and a few old colors stricken from the lineup), and the Super gets new optional 18" chrome wheels. Inside, the base model (Lucerne CX) now offers optional Bluetooth, the mid-line CXL gets new interior colors, and all models get a backlit instrument cluster.

BEYOND 2010:

LUCERNE: The Lucerne will be discontinued some time in the next two years, leaving the LaCrosse as the flagship car.

NEW COMPACT SEDAN: Buick will launch a compact sedan based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Cruze.

NEW CROSSOVERS: Buick has cancelled its plan to add a compact crossover SUV based on the same platform as the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox, but they are still working on a smaller subcompact SUV.

REGAL: (photo) The 2011 Buick Regal is a rebadged version of GM's European-market Opel Insignia. Buick's new mid-size sedan will offer a choice of direct-injected four-cylinder engines, a 182 hp 2.4 liter unit and a 220 hp turbocharged 2.0-liter unit. Both will get 6-speed automatic transmissions, and the turbo will be available with a 6-speed manual

BMW: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:

1-SERIES: HD radio is now standard, and automatic high beams are an option. The 128i Coupe loses its standard sunroof; it's now a $1,050 option.

3-SERIES: The standard stereo now includes HD radio, and automatic high beams have been added to the options list. The 328i and 328ix sedans, wagons and convertibles get new wheels, while the 328i/ix coupe and sedan no longer get a sunroof as standard.

5-SERIES: A new hatchback version of the 5-series (photo), called the Gran Turismo (GT for short), will be introduced towards the end of 2009 as a 2010 model. Sedans and wagons get a new version of the iDrive dial controller as well as an available M Sport package, which adds unique interior and exterior trim including an aerodynamic body kit, M-series wheels, a unique steering wheel, and an optional Sport Automatic transmission, which is programmed for crisper shifts and offers steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles.

6-SERIES: The navigation system has been upgraded and BMW Individual customization options have been expanded.

7-SERIES: Three new models join the 7-series lineup: The all-wheel-drive 750i xDrive, the V12-powered 760i, and the ActiveHybrid 7, all available in standard or long-wheelbase (750Li/760Li) versions. The 760 gets an all-new 6-liter V12 engine with twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. Output is 544 horsepower, and peak torque -- all 553 lb-ft of it -- is delivered from 1,500 all the way up to 5,000 RPM. The 760 will play host to BMW's first 8-speed automatic transmission and will get all the comfort and convenience features in BMW's arsenal, including air suspension, four-zone climate control, night vision and adaptive cruise control that can start and stop as needed in heavy traffic. The ActiveHybrid 7 (]photo) uses the 4.4 liter twin-turbo V8 with auto-stop functionality and a lithium-ion battery. BMW says the ActiveHybrid 7 will accelerate to 60 in 4.8 seconds, making it one of the fastest hybrids in the world. BMW will offer an M-Sport Package for all non-hybrid 7s, which includes 19" wheels with performance tires (20" optional), unique interior and body trim, and an Active Roll Stabilization system for rear-drive models.

M3: HD radio now comes standard and automatic high beams are optional.

M5: Aside from the latest version of the iDrive controller, the M5 is unchanged.

M6: The M6 gets the new iDrive controller, but is otherwise unchanged.

X3: The moonroof moves from the standard-equipment list to the options list, and HD radio is now standard.

X5: (photo) The X5 SUV -- sorry, SAV -- gets a new "M" version with a 555 horsepower twin-turbo V8, stiffer suspension, and racy body trim. Changes for other X5 models include a new iDrive controller, upgraded navigation system with high-res screen and 80 GB music server, standard HD radio, optional automatic high beams, and a "Top View" feature for the backup camera.

X6: Two new versions of the X6 will be offered: The 555 horsepower X6 M (photo) and the X6 ActiveHybrid. The ActiveHybrid will combine a twin-turbocharged V8 engine and an electric motor; peak combined power output is 480 hp and 575 lb0ft of torque. The hybrid X6 will be able to run in electric-only mode up to 37 MPG. All X6 models will get HD radio, a power-operated tailgate, a new iDrive controller and an updated navigation system as standard. The rear view camera gets a "Top View" feature, and automatic high-beams are now optional.

Z4: HD radio is now standard and automatic high beams are optional.

RUMORED:

FOUR-CYLINDER ENGINES: BMW hasn't sold a 4-cylinder car in the US since they axed the slow-selling 318ti in 1999. But higher CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards have BMW considering four-cylinder engines for the 1-series, 3-series, X1 and X3. BMW is reportedly working on a high-tech direct-injection four-cylinder engine that produces more power than the normally-aspirated inline six in the 128i and 328i. The problem? The new engine could cost more than the current inline six, and BMW isn't sure American buyers will be willing to pay a premium for two fewer cylinders.

Bentley Cars: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:

ARNAGE: Discontinued, replaced by the Mulsanne.

BROOKLANDS: No changes.

CONTINENTAL GT: Now available with two-tone paint. A new "Series 51" model (also available in the Continental GTC convertible) features a three-tone interior with unique materials, 20" 14-spoke wheels, and special badging on the front fenders... er, sorry, wings.

CONTINENTAL GTC: (photo) The convertible Continental gets a revised grille, chrome trim around the headlights, and a couple of new paint colors. The power steering system has been revised for better feel, and the standard GTC gets softer shocks for a smoother ride. The new Continental GTC Speed is essentially a drop-top version of the GT Speed coupe. It gets a W12 engine that produces 600 hp, 48 more than the standard GTC. Top speed is 200 MPH (but only 195 with the top down). Both models now offer carbon-ceramic brakes and adaptive cruise control as options. The GTC is also available in a "Series 51" model (see CONTINENTAL GT, above).

CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS: (photo) Bentley bills the new Continental Supersports coupe as the fastest, most powerful Bentley ever built, with a 621 horsepower twin-turbo W12 engine, 3.9 second 0-60 time and a 204 mph top speed. All this, plus it's about 240 lbs lighter than the Continental GT Speed and has E85 flex-fuel capability.

MULSANNE: (photo) The new Mulsanne replaces the Arnage as Bentley's flagship. The Mulsanne is powered by a 505 horsepower twin-turbo V8 with variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation. Designed and built in the UK, the Mulsanne goes on sale in the home market in summer 2010, priced at £220,000 -- just over $350,000.

Volkswagen: What's new for 2010 -- and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:

CC: The CC's trunk lid now carries "CC", "4Motion" and engine-size badges on its formerly-unadorned trunk lid. A six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox replaces the traditional automatic on 2.0T models. Bluetooth phone connectivity is now standard, but the 2.0T model loses its heated side mirrors. An iPod connector is now available as a stand-alone option, although it will also be bundled with the navigation system.

EOS: New standard equipment includes Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and a revised instrument cluster, and the iPod connector is now a stand-alone option. The Lux model gets a chrome grille (to differentiate it from the Eos Comfort) plus an optional sport-tuned suspension with 18" wheels.

GOLF: (photo) The all-new Golf, launched in Europe in 2009, comes to the US for 2010. Styling and interior are all-new, although the 2.5 liter 5-cylinder engine is a carryover. Volkswagen will re-introduce the Golf TDI with the same 140 hp 2-liter turbodiesel engine as the 2009 Jetta TDI.

GTI: (photo) Like the Golf on which it is based, the 2010 GTI is all new. Power comes from the familiar 200 hp 2-liter turbo four-cylinder (ain't nothin' wrong with that!), available with either a 6-speed manual or the Direct Shift Gearbox, VW's 6-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission. A new electronic limited-slip differential is standard. The GTI will be offered in both two- and four-door versions.

2010 Volkswagen GTI test drive and review
2010 Volkswagen GTI photo gallery
JETTA SEDAN: The Jetta gets new interior and exterior colors as well as a new instrument cluster and revised A/C controls. Bluetooth is now standard in SE and SEL trim levels and optional on the S. The iPod interface is available separately from the navigation system. The TDI is now offered in a single trim level, but Volkswagen will also offer a new model called the Jetta TDI Cup edition, which will combine the TDI engine with the sport-tuned suspension, brakes and body kit of the Jetta GLI. If the Jetta TDI Cup does well, VW may consider more diesel-powered sports cars for the North American market. A new Jetta is due in 2010 as a 2011 model.

JETTA SPORTWAGEN: (photo) The Jetta wagon gets the front end of the new Golf. North America is the only market where this car is sold as a Jetta; elsewhere it's sold and styled as the Golf Variant or Estate. It will continue to called the Jetta here, but using the Golf front clip will cut down production costs. The car behind the new face is unchanged from the 2009 Jetta SportWagen.

NEW BEETLE: The New Beetle gets new colors for the exterior (Tossau Blau) and interior (white), and convertibles gain a standard boot cover. A new New Beetle is in the works; see BEYOND 2010 below.

PASSAT: Automatic Passats now get the 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox transmission. All Passats get Bluetooth and a CC-style leather steering wheel with audio controls as standard, while wagons get fog lights (the sedan already has 'em). Rear and side sunshades have been eliminated, and an iPod connector is now available separately from the optional navigation system. Cobalt Blue has been eliminated, which means the Passat is now only available in black, white, brown, silver or grey.

RABBIT: Renamed -- see GOLF, above.

ROUTAN: Volkswagen is trying out a Honda-like model lineup on the 2010 Routan. Instead of standalone options, the Routan now comes in 4 take-it-or-leave-it models: S, SE, SEL and SEL Premium. The SE will be available with or without rear seat entertainment (RSE) and navigation, and the SEL can be had with or without RSE. All models get more standard equipment: The S gains three-zone climate control; the SE gets faux leather, heated front seats, adjustable pedals, and Bluetooth; the SEL adds a sunroof, towing prep package, remote start, and a power 3rd-row seat; and the SEL Premium gets a towing prep package.

TIGUAN: The Tiguan gets a new instrument cluster, and all Tigs except the base-model Tiguan S get standard Bluetooth phone connectivity.

TOUAREG: The V8 has been dropped, leaving just the V6s (gas and diesel). Also gone for 2010: Air suspension, rear differential lock, and the Safety Package (which included dynamic cruise control and a blind spot warning system). But while VW taketh away, they also giveth: Bluetooth and walnut wood trim are now standard, and the Luxury, Technology and Premium Technology packages get more equipment. Volkswagen is expected to add a hybrid version of the Touareg in 2010, although it may be badged as a 2011 model.

BEYOND 2010:

JETTA: VW will introduce a new Jetta next year, presumably as a 2011 model. The new car is being designed specifically for North America, and will be slightly larger than the current Jetta. It will also be less expensive, although VW says the needed cost savings will come not from cheapening the car but from economies of scale (the vehicle will also be sold in China and Russia, markets that, like America, prefer sedans over hatchbacks) as well as more use of local suppliers.

NEW BEETLE: A new New Beetle will arrive in 2011, most likely as a 2012 model. Expect coupe and convertible body styles with more powertrain choices than the single engine offered now, as well as more customization options (think Scion and MINI). VW sees the New Beetle as a missed opportunity and plans to build on the Beetle's popularity in the US.

NEW MID-SIZE SEDAN: VW will introduce a new mid-size sedan aimed at the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The new car will be larger and less expensive than the current Passat, and will be built at VW's new plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Powertrain choices will include VW's 2.5 liter 5-cylinder and 2.0T 4-cylinder gasoline engines as well as a TDI diesel powerplant. The car will be introduced in late summer/early fall of 2011 as a 2012 model.

Visitor's guide to the Los Angeles Auto Show

ABOUT THE 2009/2010 LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Three years ago, organizers moved the Los Angeles auto show to the end of the year, in order to position it ahead of the shows in New York, Chicago and (most importantly) Detroit. The ploy worked, as Last year's LA show attracted a large number of important vehicle introductions. The economic downturn has made this a quieter show than last year's, but there were still several notable introductions and several interesting concept vehicles making their first appearances in the United States.

WHEN TO GO

The Los Angeles Auto Show is open to the public Friday, December 4th through Sunday, December 13th, 2009.

Hours:
Weekdays: 11 am - 10 pm
Saturdays: 9 am - 10 pm
Sundays: 9 am - 8 pm
Note: Entrance closes one hour prior to show closing.

Tip: The show tends to be packed wall-to-wall on the weekends. Go Monday through Friday during the day if at all possible.

Admission:
Adults: $12 at the door ($2 discount coupon available here) or $10 when purchased online (buy here). Online tickets for opening day (Friday, Dec. 4th) are only $8.
Children 12 and under: Free with a paid adult.
Seniors (65+): $8 on weekdays (cash at the door).

Buy tickets online

HOW TO GET THERE

The LA Auto Show is held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa Street in Los Angeles.

Directions to the Los Angeles Auto Show

Parking is available at the convention center for $12 per day. There are several independent lots in the area, some less expensive, some more.

LA Convention Center parking information

Tip: A cheaper alternative is to take public transportation; the Metro Blue Line train's Pico Station is a block away. Metro Rail information

WHAT TO SEE

SOUTH HALL
The LA show's biggest room has lots of good stuff, including Hyundai's gorgeous new Sonata and Tucson and the potentially controversial 2011 Buick Regal. Audi's brightly-lit booth deserves a visit, although the convertible R8 Spyder will probably draw huge crowds.

WEST HALL
Ford has a huge display with a nifty split-open Taurus and several hands-on displays relating to the Fiesta that are sure to be a hit with the kids. Ford will also be giving ride-along demos of their self-parking system. If you've never seen a car park itself, you'll want to check this out -- it's downright trippy. On the opposite side of the hall, tucked into a corner of Chrysler's massive display, there's a collection of six Vipers, worth seeing if you're into that sort of thing.

PETREE HALL
Don't miss Porsche's display, which once again takes up all of the diminutive Petree Hall, just across the hallway from the West Hall Lincoln/Mercury display.

CONCOURSE HALL
Ferrari's usual triangle display is gone, as are several of the other exotic automakers, but Spyker, Rolls-Royce, and Aston-Martin are back, and the rest of the hall has been taken up by Morgan/Allard, Fisker, Steve Saleen's SMS supercars, and Lotus, which has an Evora on display..

Chrysler cars: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:
300: All models get side curtain airbags. The 300 Limited gets extra chrome trim and heated mirrors as standard, while the 300C gains keyless ignition and a rear parking assist system. A 300 Sport Edition will be added to the lineup during calendar year 2010.
ASPEN: Discontinued.
PT CRUISER: 2010 will be the last year for the PT Cruiser. The initial plan was to trim the PT lineup down to a single model, the PT Cruiser Classic. The Classic is powered by the base 150 hp 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed automatic; the turbocharged engine and manual transmission have both been dropped. Chrysler has since decided to commemorate the PT's demise by adding a PT Cruiser Final Edition later in the year.
SEBRING SEDAN/CONVERTIBLE: (photo) The Sebring's famous hood grooves are gone, and the wheel designs are new. Inside, the Sebring gets a new instrument panel and active head restraints. Chrysler will introduce the Sebring Ocean Edition later in the year, which, according to Chrysler, will target buyers in coastal states. (Huh?)
TOWN & COUNTRY: All models get active head restraints for the front seats and a rear obstacle monitoring system, which encompasses a blind-spot warning system for changing lanes and an oncoming traffic alert when backing out of parking spaces. Limited models get a taller final-drive ratio, which could lead to a marginal increase in fuel economy, although EPA estimates are unchanged. A new Fashion Edition is in the works for the first quarter of 2010, but details have not been announced.
BEYOND 2010:
300: An all-new 300, based on a Chrysler-designed platform, will debut in late 2010 as a 2011 model.
NEW COMPACT SEDAN: Chrysler will field an all-new compact sedan, based on a Fiat platform, in 2012.
NEW MIDSIZE CROSSOVER: 2013 will see the introduction of a new mid-size crossover SUV built on a Fiat platform.
NEW SUBCOMPACT HATCHBACK: Chrysler will get a new "B-segment" car in 2013, which will be built overseas by Fiat. My best guess is that it will be a rebadged version of the next-generation Fiat Grande Punto.
SEBRING: The mid-size Sebring is going on a a crash redesign program; the updated Sebring will appear at the end of 2010, presumably as a 2011 model. An all-new Sebring, based on a Fiat platform, is coming in 2013.
TOWN & COUNTRY: Chrysler's minivan will undergo a heavy-duty refresh for the 2011 model year. An all-new Town & Country will appear in 2014; the new van will be designed in-house on a Chrysler platform

Nissan: What's coming in 2010 -- and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:

370Z COUPE: Nissan will produce a 40th Anniversary Edition to celebrate the American introduction of the 240Z (which went on sale in October 1969 as a 1970 model). The 40th Anniversary Edition is a 370Z Touring with a manual transmission and Sport Package. It comes with dark silver ("40th Quartz") paint and a red interior. The Anniversary Z gets unique badging inside and out, a dash plaque, and a satin car cover. Look for it at your Nissan dealer beginning in the spring of 2010.
370Z ROADSTER:The convertible version of the 370Z makes its debut for 2010. The 370Z Roadster (photo) features an electrically-operated soft top with one-button operation (i.e. no knuckle-busting latches to open). Like the 370Z coupe, the 370Z Roadster is available in two trim levels, Base and Touring, the latter adding heated and cooled leather seats, Bluetooth, and a Bose stereo. Touring models offer an optional navigation system and a Sport package with 19" RAYS wheels, improved brakes, limited-slip differential, and a rev-matching feature for manual-transmission cars.
• 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster test drive
• More photos of the 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster
ALTIMA: (photo) The Altima gets a mid-cycle refresh for 2010. Front styling has been subtly updated, while interior materials have been improved. The manual transmission is gone, and the V6 is now only available in a single model called the 3.5 SR. Most importantly, electronic stability control is now standard in all Altima models.
• 2010 Nissan Altima test drive
• More photos of the 2010 Nissan Altima
ARMADA: The top-of-the-line LE model has been dropped, replaced by two models: The Titanium Edition (which adds leather seats, keyless ignition, Bluetooth, backup camera, Bose stereo, power-folding 3rd row seat and self-leveling rear air suspension) and the Platinum Edition (all Titanium equipment plus heated front seats and steering wheel, sunroof, power tailgate, rear-seat DVD player, and navigation). Nissan says the 2010 Armada Titanium Edition -- priced at $42,920 for the 4x2 and $45,720 for the 4x4 -- costs $2,500 less than a comparably-equipped '09 Armada, while the Platinum ($50,170 for 4x2, $52,970 for 4x4) costs $1,100 less than a similar '09 Armada.
FRONTIER: Side and side-curtain airbags are now standard, and V6-powered Frontiers get electronic stability control as standard. SE and LE 4WD automatics get hill-start assist and hill descent control, while all SE and LE V6 models get an Active Brake Limited Slip system.
GT-R: Now in its second year, Nissan's all-wheel-drive supercar gets a round of improvements. The engine has been bumped by 5 horsepower to 485, the twin-clutch automatic transmission has been recalibrated for better performance (and elimination of the transmission-eating launch mode), the brakes now have rigid fluid lines, and the suspension gets Bilstien shock absorbers and recalibrated spring rates that provide a more compliant ride at slower speeds as well as when the car is in "R" (sport) mode. Seat-mounted side airbags and side curtain airbags are now standard in all GT-Rs, not just the pricier GT-R Premium model. Base models feature a "smoke" wheel treatment while the Premium gets black wheels. Silver cars get a polished front bumper, and the GT-R is now available in white.
• 2010 Nissan GT-R test drive and review
• 2010 Nissan GT-R photo gallery
LEAF: (photo) The Leaf is an all-electric vehicle that will go on sale in the US in late 2010. The Leaf is a 5-passenger subcompact with a 100 mile range powered by a 107 horsepower electric motor feeding off a Nissan-designed lithium-ion battery pack. Charge time is 4 hours from a 220 volt home charger, and public quick-charge stations running at 480 volts will be able to juice the car up to 80% capacity in 26 minutes. I got a chance to sample the powertrain in a Cube test mule; it’s quick and unusually quiet, even for an electric vehicle. The Leaf EV will initially be sold to fleets and commercial entities, with retail sales starting in select regions as the public charging infrastructure becomes available.
• More photos of the 2010 Nissan Leaf
MAXIMA: The Maxima gets new wheel finishes and standard Bluetooth phone connectivity; SV models gain XM satellite radio as standard. Option packages have been shuffled around a bit, and the navigation system has been upgraded to include DVD playback capability, Bluetooth audio streaming, and XM weather and traffic information.
PATHFINDER: The LE V6 gets a standard sunroof, while the LE V8 gains standard navigation. New option packages include the LE V8 Value Package (rear-seat DVD player and moonroof) and SE Premium Journey Package (17" wheels, backup camera, roof-rack crossbars, Bose stereo with XM satellite radio, Bluetooth and keyless ignition).
QUEST: Discontinued... for now. (See BEYOND 2010 on next page.)
ROGUE: The Rogue S offers a new 360° Value Package, which includes 16" alloy wheels, tinted windows, backup camera, auto-dimming rear view mirror, a rear spoiler and a chrome grille. A new Krōm model (photo) gets a unique grille, unique rear fascia with center-exit exhaust, and special 17-inch wheels.
SENTRA: The Sentra gets a minor facelift for 2010 (photo). All models get new head- and taillights and interior fabrics, and the 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL get a new grille and front fascia. The SL model gets a standard color display and electronic stability control, but loses its standard leather upholstery (it's now a $700 option); it's also priced $1,100 lower than last year's SL. The hot-rod SE-R and SE-R Spec V get the new head/taillights, interior revisions, and revised option packages, as well as lower prices ($1,080 less than 2009).
TITAN: Electronic stability control, side and side curtain airbags, and Active Brake Limited Slip are now standard, and the option packages have been shuffled around a bit.
UNNAMED COMMERCIAL VEHICLE: Nissan plans to sell a line of commercial vehicles in the States, and the first is due in 2010. Nissan hasn't said which one it will be, but we expect a small van, similar in size or slightly larger than Ford's Transit Connect.

2010 Honda Insight Twelve Month Test - Introduction

The Great Downsizing Experiment

I have long been a proponent of downsizing -- buying a smaller car than you think you need. Smaller cars are cheaper to buy and use less fuel, and most of us don't actually need as much space in our cars as we think we do. So when my wife Robin and I began to seriously think about replacing our aging mid-size Honda Accord wagon, I realized this would be an excellent opportunity to put my money where my mouth is. I contacted my friends at Honda and asked if we could borrow a 2010 Honda Insight hybrid -- not just for the usual week, but for a year.
Why a Honda Insight?
Granted, going from a mid-size car like an Accord to a subcompact like an Insight is a bit extreme -- but I figured if we were going to do this, we should do it all the way. And the Insight made sense: Its hatchback body style should, in theory, let us get the most from the car's small footprint, and the fact that it's a hybrid would let us do our part in reducing pollution and our nation's reliance on oil. And it's also a realistic choice -- the Insight's price tag ($20,510 for starters, $23,914 for the EX Navi model we'd be driving) puts it well inside our (theoretical) budget.
That said, we knew we'd be making some compromises by driving an Insight. We spend lots of time hauling cargo and kids -- the former including Robin's bulky massage table and the latter including our 13-year-old son Robert, who is 5'10" and growing rapidly. Neither would fit as easily into the Insight as the Accord. And Robin -- who would be doing the bulk of the driving -- likes to go fast. At 145 horsepower, our Accord isn't exactly a muscle car, but it sure seems like one compared to the 98 hp Insight.
"It's Up To You"
Robin and I discussed the pros and the cons, and in the end I left the decision up to her, since she'd be the one putting most of the miles on the Insight.
Her decision? "Let's go for it. If it goes badly, I can always start driving the wagon again."
And so we begin our twelve months with the 2010 Honda Insight hybrid. Among the things I hope to learn:
• Can a family of four make do with a small car? Especially onethis small?
• Are new Hondas as trouble-free as people say?
• Which will win the fuel-economy battle -- the Insight's frugal hybrid drivetrain or Robin's merciless lead foot?
And most importantly...
• Will Robin take to the shiny new Insight, or will she forsake it for her ratty old Accord?
I'll be bringing you monthly updates, along with periodic updates on the About.com Cars blog. Stay tuned!
Next: October 2009: The Insight goes to work

Mercury: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

CONFIRMED FOR 2010:
MARINER/MARINER HYBRID: The Mariner gets convex blind-spot mirrors integrated into its side view mirrors. Newly available features include a backup camera, MyKey programmable keys, a self-parking system, and an enhanced SYNC system that provides live traffic and turn-by-turn directions.
MILAN: (photo) The Milan gets subtly updated styling, a new 2.5 liter base engine, and a revised 3.0 liter six. The new Milan Hybrid uses the same hybrid system as the Fusion Hybrid, complete with an Atkinson-cycle version of the 2.5 liter engine; EPA fuel economy estimates are an impressive 41 MPG city and 36 MPG highway.
MOUNTAINEER:Trailer Sway Control is now standard and models with navigation get an improved system with Sirius Travel Link. The Mountaineer Premium model now includes a sunroof and premium audio system as standard.
SABLE: Discontinued.
BEYOND 2010:
NEW SMALL CAR: Ford has talked about turning Mercury into a small-car division, which would explain why there's no Mercury version of the upcoming 2010 Taurus. When Ford released their future product plans last summer, they announced that Mercury would get a new small car. My guess would be that it will be based on the next-generation Ford Focus, due in 2010 as a 2011 model, although Ford could conceivably import a European model that isn't sold in America. No word on what the new car will be called... maybe Tracer?
GRAND MARQUIS, MOUNTANEER: If Mercury is to become a purveyor of small cars, the big Grand Marquis sedan and Mountaineer SUV will have to go the way of the Sable -- Ford just hasn't said when

Lexus: What's coming in 2010 - - and beyond

ES 350:(photo)The ES gets updated front and rear styling, new wheels, and a handful of new colors. Inside we find updated trim, a new instrument panel and a bunch of new features, including memory for the power seat, mirrors and steering wheel, rear seat side airbags, rain-sensing wipers, a larger center console storage bin, and an updated navigation system. The premium sound system now comes with an iPod-compatible USB port, and the cassette deck has finally been eliminated.

GS 350/GS 460: The GS loses its cassette deck, but gains active front headrests, an upgraded navigation system, an iPod-compatible USB port for the (optional) premium stereo, and a couple of new colors.

GS 450h: The hybrid version of the GS gets a new grille and wheels, clear taillights, and an optional power-operated rear sunshade.

HS 250h: (photo)Lexus is touting the 2010 HS 250 as the first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle. Although the HS 250h shares many mechanical bits with the also-new-for-2010 Prius, the HS features a unique sedan body in place of the Prius' wind-cheating hatchback shape, although the styling looks more like a Toyota than a Lexus. The HS 250h features a 2.4 liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine that combines with the hybrid drive system to produce 187 horsepower. Techno-gadgets abound, including a windshield that reduces infrared rays, decreasing cabin temperature and the need to run the air conditioner, and an electric power steering system that helps keep the driver from allowing the car to drift out of its lane. The HS250h will also be the first vehicle to offer Lexus Enform, essentially Toyota/Lexus' version of GM's OnStar system.

IS 250/IS 350: The IS gets an upgraded navigation system with Lexus Enform and XM traffic, weather, sports and stock prices. The premium sound system now has an iPod-compatible USB port. IS250 AWD models with the Luxury Package get ventilated front seats lined in semi-aniline leather.

IS C: (photo) The hardtop convertible version of the IS makes its long-awaited debut this year. Like the sedan, the convertible is available with a choice of 2.5 or 3.5 liter V6 engines

·       2010 Lexus IS 250C test drive

·       2010 Lexus IS 250C photo gallery

IS F: The hot-rod IS gets the same electronics upgrades as the regular IS sedan, along with new wheels, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and foldable rear headrests.

LS 460/LS 460L: (photo)The 2010 LS gets a mid-cycle refresh, with a new front fascia, taillights, side mirrors and wheels. The rear-drive LS 460 offers a new Sport Package which includes an "Aero" body kit, unique interior trim, and a sport-tuned air suspension. (The body kit is also available as a stand-alone option.) The LS' collision-avoidance system has been improved to detect pedestrians. It works in conjunction with the new Driver Monitor System, which monitors the position of the driver's head. If the system detects that the driver is not looking ahead and there is an object in the car's path, it first sounds an alarm, then applies the brakes and alters the steering ratio to help the driver swerve.

LS 600hL: The hybrid version of the LS gets styling updates similar to those of the LS 460, an updated navigation system, and a smaller traction battery pack, which frees up an extra two cubic feet of much-needed trunk space.

LX 570: Lexus' version of the Land Cruiser gets an improved display for the rear-seat entertainment system, updated navigation system, and an iPod-compatible USB port for the optional premium stereo.

RX 350/RX 450h: (photo)Lexus' venerable RX crossover SUV is all-new for 2010. Improvements include updated styling, a new iDrive-like "Remote Touch" controller for stereo, climate and navigation systems, and, for the V6-powered RX 350, a six-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid returns in the form of the RX 450h, with an improved hybrid drive system that delivers more power and achieves better fuel economy than its predecessor, the RX 400h.

SC 430: The SC retractable hardtop soldiers on for another year, now with an updated navigation system and (optional) premium stereo, new wheels, two new colors, and puddle lamps mounted in the side-view mirrors.

BEYOND 2010:

LFA: (photo)Lexus' two-seat supercar features a 552 horsepower 4.8 liter V10 engine, lightweight carbon-fiber construction, and a price anticipated to be upwards of $350,000. Other features include a 6-speed automated sequential gearbox, carbon-fiber brakes, and a top speed of 2010 MPG. Lexus will hand-build just 500 LFAs over a 24-month period beginning in December 2010.

RUMORED:

IS F: A lightweight version of the IS-F sports sedan is rumored to be in the works. Along with a weight reduction of around 300 lbs, the car will feature an improved suspension and braking system, with the same 416 hp engine as the current IS F.

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