Ferrari F430 Scuderia

            

 This new-fangled, insubstantial, track-oriented edition of the adored F430, with power boosted to 510 from the mid-mounted V-8, takes some of Ferrari’s Formula One-bred expertise to one of its creation cars for the first time. This comprises “Superfast” software for reducing shift times to 60 milliseconds–a portion of a blink of an eye. By the time Ferrari formally reveals the Scuderia at the Frankfurt motor show this month, it is almost convinced that the full, very limited model run will be sold out.

Morgan Aeromax

           

For years supply has long exceeded demand for the hand-built Aero 8 Roadster. The AeroMax is new for 2008. It’s an even more sophisticated little sports car and offers a new six-speed automatic transmission aimed at increasing Morgan’s appeal in the U.S. But you may have to settle for a used Morgan for now; all 100 are now sold out for its limited production run, and there’s already a very long alternate list.

Aston Martin DBS

        

Deliveries of Aston Martin’s new flagship model, which made its first appearance in the James Bond film Casino Royale, start in the first part of 2008, but as it stands, the DBS is booked through the end of calendar year 2009. The DBS will be parallel in uniqueness to its ancestor, the Vanquish, a model that peaked at about 650 yearly. At least a third of all DBS models made will be coming to the U.S.

 

2009 Dodge Ram

Not to be outdone by Ford, Dodge gave its Ram pickup a serious update, including a raft of tech options. The MyGig music server will be available in the Ram, as well as Sirius backseat TV. For the 2010 model year, Dodge will make a two-mode hybrid version available.

2009 Ford F-150

Ford gives its venerable and best-selling pickup truck a makeover for the 2009 model year, updating the look and adding many convenience features. The F-150 can be had with a variety of Ford’s current engines, while the 2010 model year will see direct injection choices.

X6 to be BMW’s first hybrid?

BMW calls its new X6 a Sports Activity Coupe, but it fits the lines and function of a crossover. The X6 is being used to launch some new technologies, such as BMW’s first direct injection engine, a 4.4-liter V-8 with twin turbochargers, and a variable steering system which increases the steering ratio the more the wheels are turned.

BMW has committed to delivering an X6 hybrid, but official details have not yet been released. Visually the hybrid is identical to the regular X6 but BMW claims that the model is 20 percent more fuel-efficient.

Various reports indicate the X6 will be BMW’s first production car offered with the option of a hybrid powertrain.

2009 Subaru Forester

Subaru gives its Forester a significant and much-needed update for the 2009 model year. As a Subaru, it still has all-wheel-drive, and is powered by a boxer-style engine. The Forester 2.5 XT adds a turbocharger for 224 horsepower.

• The 2009 Forester offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter Boxer engines, both revised to provide better low-end and mid-range torque for more responsive everyday performance.
• New interior materials, including double-stitched fabrics and high-grade plastics, impart a feeling of higher quality.
• Forester is offered in a wide array of models, with the 2009 Forester 2.5 X offering one of the best values in the crossover SUV segment and the range-topping Forester L.L.Bean Edition offering more luxury without compromising the vehicle’s sporty nature.
• The 2009 Forester offers a navigation system for the first time as well as advanced audio system upgrade options.
• The 2009 Forester comes pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod® or MP3 player.

2009 Toyota Venza

Toyota showed off an all-new crossover at the Detroit Auto Show. The Venza, powered by either a four cylinder or a V-6, can be had with a variety of electronics, including a navigation system, Bluetooth cell phone integration, rear seat entertainment, and a premium JBL audio system.

2009 Hyundai Genesis

The Genesis is Hyundai’s first attempt at a V-8 powered rear-wheel-drive sedan for the U.S. Genesis shows that Hyundai is ready to compete in a class far above where it started. The newly developed Genesis engine is a 4.6-liter V-8 producing 375 horsepower.

 

2009 Volkswagen Passat CC

The Passat CC shows a new design direction for Volkswagen, with striking lines in a four-door coupe. The car comes to the U.S. with the choice of a 2-liter turbocharged four cylinder putting out 197 horsepower or a 3.6-liter V-6 making 276 horsepower.