Following its European market launch in late 2007, the all-new Mazda6 is now available in Japan where it’s named Atenza. Offered in three body styles (Sedan, Sport 5-door hatchback and Sport Wagon) and two 4-cylinder engine options (2.0 & 2.5-liter) the Atenza prices in Japan range from 2,070,000 to 2,670,000 yen (approx $19,500 to 25,000). -Details after the jump

Press Release

Mazda Launches Fully Redesigned Atenza

- The all-new Mazda Atenza delivers advanced environmental and safety features coupled with superb high speed stability and comfort -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation has announced the launch of the fully remodeled Mazda Atenza (known as the all-new Mazda6 overseas) in Japan. Available in three body styles - Sedan, Sport (5-door hatchback), and Sport Wagon - Mazda’s globally acclaimed mid-size car goes on sale from today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealerships throughout Japan.

Developed in line with Mazda’s Zoom-Zoom evolution concept, the all-new Mazda Atenza’s design theme is “Bold & Exquisite.” The exterior look expresses a combination of athleticism and delicate grace in all three body styles. Sporty and sophisticated interior design creates an environment in which drivers can experience real driving pleasure, comfort and a feeling of security.

Launched in Japan in May 2002, the first generation Atenza combined unique and attractive styling with exceptional driving performance. Now, the second generation model takes these characteristics one step further through substantially enhanced environmental and safety performance. With top class aerodynamics, it features improved high speed stability, ride quality and quietness, providing enhanced comfort levels worthy of the “ultimate high speed long-distance touring car.”

Mazda’s newly developed MZR 2.5-liter in-line four-cylinder engine, mated to five-speed and six-speed automatic transmissions which are newly combined with Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) control^*1, further evolve the exceptional driving dynamics that were highly acclaimed on the first Atenza. The all-new Atenza is larger than its predecessor, but increased use of high tensile steel has helped reduce the overall vehicle weight. In combination with the top-class aerodynamics, this contributes to improved fuel economy. To lower running costs, the use of regular gasoline is now recommended for all model grades.

Safety features on the all-new Mazda Atenza include Japan’s first rear vehicle monitoring system. When driving at speeds over 60 kilometers per hour, this system uses radar to detect vehicles approaching from behind and alerts the driver. Another new feature is CF-Net (Cross Functional Network) functionality, a combination of switches on the steering wheel with a centralized display at the top of the instrument panel, which provide simple control of all systems, including air conditioning and audio. This helps the driver focus on the road and reduces hand movement away from the steering wheel. Other safety attributes include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Mazda’s Traction Control System (TCS) as standard equipment on all the 2.5-liter model grades. Mazda’s enhanced safety equipment and functionality promote safe and comfortable driving.

Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices range from 2,070,000 to 2,500,000 yen for the all-new Mazda Atenza Sedan, 2,280,000 to 2,670,000 yen for the Sport version, and from 2,200,000 to 2,670,000 yen for the Sport Wagon model (all prices include consumption tax).

*1: Active Adaptive Shift control: This feature has a slope control function that assesses both the gradient and winding of a road as well as driver intentions such as acceleration and brake operation to automatically select the optimal gear.

Main features of the all-new Atenza
1. Design: Sporty and dignified

The design theme for the all-new Mazda Atenza is “Bold & Exquisite.” The design is bold and adventurous, with an exquisite elegance based on Japanese aesthetics. Maintaining Mazda’s traditional athletic look, but with augmented driving dynamism, the new Atenza’s design leaves a stylish impression of refined sophistication and dignified class.

Exterior

The new Atenza Sedan has an arched roof with distinctive, elegant lines. The flowing side silhouette adds a spirited quality to the Sport model, while the Sport Wagon attracts the eye with its stretched rear section. All three body styles have their own distinctive attractions.

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The outgoing model’s athletic impression rendered by its round, prominent wheel arches and short overhang is preserved, while tension and dynamism are expressed in the all-new Atenza through the smooth, curved surfaces of the fenders contrasted with the sharper edges that define the bonnet.

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The all-new Atenza’s new front end design features headlights with a subtle, modern flair, a larger five-point grille, expanded lower air intakes and vertical-type fog lamps.

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Viewed from the side, the flowing roofline and bodyline stimulate a sense of flow toward the rear. The large rear combination brake lights wrap the rear body corner edges for a premium feel.

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Six colors are newly available, including Lilac Silver Metallic, which was developed exclusively for the all-new Atenza. A total of 11 body colors are available for customers to choose from.

Interior

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A sportier, highly sophisticated interior design was sought. To communicate sportiness, Mazda designers focused on a cockpit-like driving environment predicated on driving pleasure and build quality, to provide a driving position with better visibility, operability and ample legroom.

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The dashboard and door trim design combines gentle surfaces and mechanical sharpness. From the passengers’ seats the arch-shaped dashboard appears to be floating.

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Improved cabin quality comes from the combination of newly developed grains on the plastic surfaces, the use of high-quality materials and a consistent glossy finish on the interior furnishings.

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Calm White genuine leather seats are matched with the ‘Crystal’ glossy instrument panel garnish on the 25EX and 20E model grades. For the 25EX grade, a combination of black genuine leather seats with the ‘Zebra’ glossy instrument panel garnish is also available as an option.

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A fusion of sporty black half-leather seats with the ‘Line’ decorative instrument panel garnish (based on the image of a shooting-star) is available for the 25Z grade. Sporty black fabric seats with a wavy pattern are also available with the ‘Line’ garnish for the 25S grade. Modern black fabric seats with sharp patterns were combined with dark gray decorative paneling for the interior of the 25C, 25F, 20C and 20F grades.

2. Dynamic performance: Advanced high quality driving performance that allows the driver to enjoy a feeling of oneness with the vehicle

Dynamic performance, steering, brakes and handling were developed to ensure the all-new Atenza responds to the driver’s intentions with linear precision. The ride quality and quietness were also significantly improved over the previous model, for a heightened level of comfort and feeling of security.

Powertrains

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The all-new Atenza is equipped with Mazda’s recently developed MZR 2.5-liter engine, a step up from the previous model’s 2.3-liter version. By increasing torque at all engine speeds, linear acceleration and precise response were achieved. With engine emissions cleaner than ever before and the recommended fuel changed to regular gasoline - previously, premium gasoline was the designated fuel for all the 2.3-liter models - the new Atenza is more environmentally-friendly and cheaper to run. The highly acclaimed MZR 2.0-liter engine is also available.

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Electrically controlled five-speed and six-speed automatic (Activematic) transmissions are fitted with the Active Adaptive Shift (AAS) system that is also featured on the Mazda RX-8. This setup delivers a linear and agile ride by selecting the optimal gear for the particular driving condition. An advanced six-speed manual transmission is equipped on the 25Z and 25S grades of the Atenza Sport and Sport Wagon.

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Mazda’s electrically-controlled Active Torque Split All-Wheel-Drive system is equipped on the four-wheel-drive models. Torque transfer is optimized for the front and rear axle in accordance with changing road surfaces and driving conditions.

Chassis/body

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The shapes of the door mirrors, front bumper corners, rear combination lights and undercover were optimized for improved aerodynamics. On the FWD grades with the 2.5-liter engine, a horseshoe-shaped deflector is fitted to control the air flow under the floor. The changes resulted in top-class Cd values (0.27 for the Sedan and Sport and 0.28 for the Sport Wagon).

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The front high-mount double wishbone and rear E-type multi-link suspension arrangements produce a secure driving feel with outstanding straight-line stability and responsiveness in all driving conditions.

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Rack drive power steering is adopted for the FWD models and delivers optimal assistance at all speeds.

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The use of high tensile steel was expanded to reduce the vehicle’s bodyweight in order to improve driving dynamics and fuel economy. Flexural rigidity was improved by about 45 percent and torsional rigidity by approximately 30 percent (in all Sport grades).

Quietness

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By using a dual mass damper pulley and flexible flywheel design (for the six-speed MT), the engine noise when accelerating was significantly improved (for all the 2.5-liter models).

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The designs of the center floor, suspension and door seals were improved to enhance drivability and greatly reduce road noise.

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Wind noise was reduced by optimizing the shapes of the A-pillars and door mirrors and increasing the door rigidity to improve sealing.

3. Equipment: New functionality for enhanced comfort and feeling of security

From daily journeys to high speed touring, new features and functionality support comfortable and leisurely driving and assure a “further evolution of Zoom-Zoom.”

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The Cross Functional-Network (CF-Net) system is a newly installed feature. Switches on the steering wheel enable control of all systems, such as audio, air conditioning and the trip computer. A center display showing related information is located in the upper instrument panel to help reduce driver eye movement away from the road. The system is easy to understand and operate because the display structure was intuitively aligned with the switch layout for enhanced user-friendliness.

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A fully automatic air conditioner with a pollen filter is equipped in the all-new Mazda Atenza. It features improved cooling/heating capacity, air volume and quietness. Temperature can be independently adjusted from the driver’s seat and front passenger’s seat.

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The Bose^® sound system with eight speakers was exclusively developed for the Atenza. It delivers clear and dynamic sound to all occupants in the cabin. It is equipped with Bose’s original driving noise compensation system, AudioPilot.^TM (Available for all grades except the 20F and 25C as a factory-installed set option.)

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The 40GB HDD satellite navigation system with a 7-inch display enhances user-friendliness with its speech recognition feature. It includes a Bluetooth^® hands-free system that can be controlled by voice commands or switches embedded in the steering wheel. It is compatible with Mazda’s G-BOOK Alpha system (available as factory-installed set option on all models).

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The driver can start and stop the engine by pushing a button. This feature can be combined with Mazda’s advanced keyless entry system for the 25EX, 25Z and 25S grades as a factory-installed set option.

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A unique illumination feature helps create a comfortable cabin space. When the driver’s door is closed, a line of lights moves from the bottom to the top of the center panel. Whenever the audio controls are used, soft blue LEDs embedded behind the switches light up in response.

4. Packaging and storage: sporty styling balanced with convenient packaging

Further evolving the functionality of the previous model, the all-new Mazda Atenza provides various user-friendly and innovative features.

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Optimized header design (where the windshield meets the roof) ensures top class forward-upward visibility. Compact rear seat headrests allow for an unobstructed rear view.

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Top class rear seat comfort was achieved by extending the rear seat leg room by 13 millimeters.

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The Sedan and Sport Wagon offer 519 liters of cargo space, and the Sport provides 510 liters. The 60:40 split rear seats allow for increased flexibility of luggage space.

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A newly developed karakuri tonneau cover automatically lifts up when the rear lift gate is opened for greatly improved convenience when loading and unloading cargo.

5. Environmental and safety features: equipment that embodies evolved Zoom-Zoom

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Mazda’s Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TSC) support safe and linear driving (standard on 2.5-liter grades, available as a factory-installed set option on 2.0-liter grades).

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The all-new Atenza features Japan’s first rear vehicle monitoring system. At speeds over 60 kilometers per hour, this system detects vehicles approaching from the rear and alerts the driver (on all 25EX and 25Z and 25S FWD grades). Mazda’s Precrash Safety System detects oncoming obstacles, alerts the driver and, if necessary, automatically applies the brakes. Additionally, a motor pre-tensions the seatbelts prior to a crash to more effectively restrain the occupants (available as a factory-installed set option on 25EX, 25Z and 25S FWD grades with automatic transmissions).

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Mazda’s Radar Cruise Control System uses a radar sensor to measure the speed and distance of the vehicle in front and automatically controls acceleration and deceleration to maintain a preset distance (available as a factory-installed set option on 25EX, 25Z and 25S FWD grades with automatic transmissions).

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The adaptive front lighting system (AFS) with bi-xenon headlights dramatically improves nighttime visibility (standard on Sport and Sport Wagon 25EX and 25Z grades and available as a factory-installed set option on all other grades except 25C and 20F).

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Parking sensor: A total of eight ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers sense the distance to obstacles from the corners of the car and deliver a series of audible beeps to help the driver park in tight spaces (available as a factory-installed set option on all grades except 25C and 20F).

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Front Seat Active Headrests are installed on a Mazda vehicle for the first time. The headrests reduce the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear end collision.

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The all-new Atenza boasts top class aerodynamics, reduced roll resistance and is equipped with electric power steering (FWD grades) and LED brake lights. It delivers significantly improved performance and safety as well as a two percent improvement in fuel economy even though it is larger than the outgoing model.

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While engine size has increased, the all-new Atenza’s exhaust emissions are as clean as ever (FWD grades achieve exhaust emissions that are 75 percent or lower than the levels required by the Japanese government’s 2005 exhaust emissions regulations. All 4WD grades achieve exhaust emissions that are 50 percent or lower than the regulations.)

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By using polypropylene (PP) and other reusable materials in a variety of parts, the all-new Atenza is over 90 percent^*2 recyclable.

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Materials with low proportions of volatile organic compounds (VOC) are used for interior resins, paints and adhesives. Proportions are less than those stipulated in guidelines set by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

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Calculations for new car recyclability are based on 1998 industry guidelines.

This illustration picturing the upcoming 2009 Suzuki Equator pick up is featured in the March/April issue of Truck Trend. We’re not sure how close the artists rendering is to the actual model that will make its debut at the Chicago Autoshow in February, but we thought it was worth while sharing with you. Suzuki’s first ever midsize truck that will go on sale in the States later this year is based on the Nissan Frontier and it will be built at Nissan’s manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tennessee.

Via: Autoblog.com , Source: Truck Trend

If we were to come up with a story for this accident, we’d say that this Hyundai Elantra was parked illegally on some Russian central road and that the driver of the heavy-duty army (?) truck didn’t manage to come to a full stop until he overrode the Korean sedan. Well, at least we hope that’s what happened because we don’t even want to think about the possibility that the Elantra was on the road with passengers when the accident occured… -More pics after the jump

Via: spynet

The redesigned 2009 Toyota Matrix is set to go on sale at dealerships in early February with base MSRP ranging from $16,190 to $21,850. Toyota’s compact crossover is offered in three distinct grades, Standard, S and XRS and two different four-cylinder engines, a 132 HP 1.8-liter unit and a 158 HP 2.4-liter unit that are mated to a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the Matrix also offers the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. -Details after the jump

PRESS RELEASE: 2009 MATRIX

The Toyota Matrix helped redefine the concept of a crossover vehicle, and has been redesigned for the 2009 model year.

Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. The result is a sporty shape that has a wider, lower stance than the current model, but contains room for five people to ride in comfort. The Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar.

The Matrix features three distinct grades, Standard, S and XRS. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler, while a rear deck spoiler is standard for all XRS models.

The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmission.

Equipped with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission models.

For those who crave horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 21/29 city/highway mpg for the automatic transmission models and 21/28 with the five-speed manual transmission models.

In addition, Matrix once again offers the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The AWD Matrix S is equipped with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and the Super ECT 4-speed transmission.

The AWD system uses active torque control to distribute the appropriate amount of torque to each wheel. The system is front-wheel-drive-based and distributes torque to the rear wheels through an electromagnetic coupler only when needed.

The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility. The instrument panel and center cluster were designed to create the sensation of a cockpit. The optitron gauges in the instrument panel feature bright white lighting and red needles. A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior.

The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with standard seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table is available for the front passenger’s seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. For rear-seat passengers, a folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger.

Throughout the interior, designers supplied multiple storage spaces. A folding tonneau cover is standard and helps keep items placed in the cargo area out of sight.

All systems are equipped with a universal mini-jack port that allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the Matrix’s speakers.

Form, fun and functionality are in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on the Standard Matrix includes P205/55 R16 tires with full wheel covers, power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, front center console box and an engine immobilizer.

The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.

In addition to these features, the XRS grade includes standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls.

The Standard Matrix with a five-speed manual transmission will carry a base MSRP of $16,190, while the four-speed automatic begins at $17,000. The Matrix S front-wheel drive with a five-speed manual transmission has a MSRP of $18,260, while the five-speed automatic will begin at $19,450. The Matrix S AWD with a four-speed automatic has a base MSRP starting at $20,400. The Matrix XRS with a five-speed manual transmission has a MSRP starting at $20,660, while the five-speed automatic will begin at $21,850.

German sports carmaker Funke & Will AG announced today that it has extended distribution of the YES! Roadster 3.2 (yes, that’s the car’s name) to North America and Canada this year. The lightweight roadster will make its appereance at next month’s Chicago Autoshow with sales following later on this year.

The YES! Roadster will be available in two versions, one with a naturally aspirated 255 HP 3.2-liter V6 engine capable of accelerating the 890 kg or 1,962 lb two-seater from zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4,8 sec and one with a turbocharged version of the same V6 unit developing 355 HP. The latter goes from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 sec and features a top speed of 175 mph or 281 km/h. For those in need of more power, there’s an option for a 415bhp upgrade that allows the Roadster 3.2 turbo to reach a top speed of nearly 200mph or 321 km/h. -Details and images after the jump - Thanks for the tip Betsi!

Press Release

GROSSENHAIN, Germany, January 28- The YES! Roadster 3.2 will be on display during the 100th Chicago Autoshow from February 6th to February 17th 2008. We are looking forward to welcoming on the exhibition stand SH34 in the South Hall.

The overwhelmingly positive response from media, customers, experts and business partners reflects the great interest of the public in the puristic lightweight and proves once again the successful implementation of this concept, true to the motto: PURE DRIVING PLEASURE.

Due to the equally positive feedback from America, Funke & Will AG has extended distribution of the YES! Roadster 3.2 to North America and Canada this year. For this purpose the company has founded YES! North America Inc.

The current model is equipped with a 3.2ltr V6 motor. With its 255 hp, the 890 kg two-seater can accelerate to 60 m/h in just 4.8 seconds and gives you the driving pleasure typical of the YES!. If that’s not enough for you, set your sights on the YES! Roadster 3.2 Turbo. With this turbo version, Funke & Will advance into the realm of super sports cars. Thanks to an exhaust gas turbocharger, the same original aggregate yields 355 hp, catapulting the driver of the merely 930 kg roadster from 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 175mph. A specially developed rear spoiler ensures the necessary downforce to keep the 355 hp safely on the road. If more power is required there is an option for a 415bhp upgrade pushing the YES! Roadster 3.2 turbo almost to the majic 200mph barrier.

In either guise the YES! Roadster 3.2 and Turbo offers supreme handling with almost supercar performance in the 3.2 Turbo. With comfort levels that make the car and everyday option and a generous choice of optional extras from heated seats to high quality satnav.

A select group of dealers are to be anounced at the end of Febuary which will service North America from the east to the west coast with additional dealers appointed in Canada.

The European “Car of the Year 2008” award, which was given to the Fiat 500 by a jury of 58 automotive journalists from 22 European countries, was presented this evening (28 January) at a ceremony in Berlin.

Sergio Marchionne, CEO of Fiat Group Automobiles (he’s the poor-looking guy on the left), who received the award, said: “We have gone a long way in a short space of time, and I am proud to be able to underline that Fiat was the fastest growing car brand in Europe last year. The 500 is not a final target for the brand, but just the first stage in the ongoing development of the ‘new Fiat’. Which is why we see the 500 as not just a car, but as a ‘travelling agenda’ of what we want to achieve.”

Renault has added a new entry-level version in its UK Twingo II line-up. Called the Twnigo Extreme, it is fitted with a 1.2-liter gasoline engine delivering 60 HP and it’s priced at £7,500 (approx $14,900 or €10,070). Available in UK showrooms from mid-February 2008, the Twingo Extreme comes equipped with standard ABS with EBD (electronic Brake Distribution), driver and front passenger lateral airbags, brake assist, remote central-locking with dead-locking, anti-drill door locks, insurance-approved engine immobiliser, sports body styling, fixed on-piece folding rear seat, 2 X 15W RDS radio CD with fingertip control, front fog lights, electric front windows, rev counter and 14” ‘Fidji’ wheel trims.