2011年新车指南

 

Acura

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

Manufacturers are hoping that wagons will soon gain traction in America as a stylish alternative to SUVs and minivans, and Acura is looking to capitalize on the trend with its TSX Sport Wagon. The company brought over the European-market Honda Accord Wagon, bolted on an Acura fascia and called it a day — but that's a good thing. Power is likely to come from the company's 204-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine.

Availability: Late fall 2010
Price: Around $32,000

 

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

2011 Acura TSX

Earlier in the year, Acura made quite a bit of noise about the possibility of a hybrid TSX. The company hasn't mentioned any details since those first reports surfaced in January 2010, but at the time Acura seemed confident that the fuel-saver version would be on the street by 2011. Given Honda's experience with integrated motor assist, a hybrid TSX shouldn't be too much of a stretch.
Availability: Early 2011?
Price: Around $33,000

 

 

Audi

 

Like most manufacturers, Audi is still getting back on its feet after the global sales ice age of 2009. As a result, we likely won't see a lot of new metal from the German manufacturer in 2011, with one big exception. If our sources are to be believed, American buyers may finally get their hands on a piece of forbidden fruit: the RS5. There's also some indication that an all-new A7 Sportback may surface to do battle with the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Audi A7 Sportback

Audi has been remarkably quiet regarding whether or not we can expect to see its all-new A7 Sportback next year. If it does rear its head in 2011, expect a low-slung, sculpted design along with a range of Audi engines. That means buyers could choose from a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 with around 300 horsepower and a 4.2-liter V8, both coupled to the company's quattro all-wheel-drive system. There is some hope that a turbodiesel option will also be available.
Availability: Mid 2011
Price: Around $56,000

 

2011 Audi RS5
Starting next year, American buyers will finally be able to get their hands on a very lustworthy piece of Audi hardware: the RS5. European buyers have been able to snap up this 444-horsepower V8 coupe for some time now. Once the car does hit our shores, don't expect it to be either plentiful or cheap. The company has already made it clear that it will import only a limited number of RS5s, and that each of them will be loaded to the gills with go-fast and luxury options.
Availability: Fall 2011
Price: Around $75,000

 

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

2011 Audi Q7

Until now, the big news about the Q7 was the big SUV's efficient TDI V6 engine. Buyers looking for a little extra power at the cost of a few miles per gallon can now look forward to a 3.0-liter TFSI supercharged V6. The engine is the most powerful six-cylinder in the Audi parts bin and should give the vehicle up to 333 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque when it arrives on dealer lots later this year.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Starts at $46,900

 

2011 Audi TT
Now that Audi has decided to turn its stable into a squadron of bona fide BMW-fighters, the company's roadster is getting some love from engineers and brass alike. The car's new styling falls into the evolutionary camp instead of rewriting what it means to be a TT, though a good bit more power is available from the entry-level turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Expect around 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $38,000

 

 

Bentley

They say that pesky little things like recessions don't influence luxury car sales. Tell that to Bentley and other uberluxury brands that took a bath over the past two years. But don't worry, that hasn't stopped the luxury carmaker from starting a discreet grudge match against rival Rolls-Royce. The two are set to tangle in a big way with the all-new Bentley Mulsanne and the equally minty Rolls-Royce Phantom. Careful, someone's sport coat might get wrinkled.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Bentley Mulsanne

Bentley has traditionally been all about larger-than-life luxury, and the newest addition to the family isn't about to let anyone down. Named after the infamous turn at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Mulsanne packs a twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V8 engine with 505 horsepower and a dizzying 752 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a ZF 8-speed transmission. The company says each car takes nine days to produce, thanks largely to the amount of hand-built coachwork in the cabin.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $300,000

 

 

BMW

BMW is hard at work saving gas. After eschewing both hybrids and electric vehicles in favor of clean-diesel engines for years, the German automaker has jumped into the battery-powered world headfirst. Consumers may have to wait awhile before seeing any of those models on the streets, though. In the meantime, a new CUV and a wave of refreshed models are hitting dealers right now.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 BMW X1

Built on the 3-Series platform, the X1 is the newest addition to BMW's stable of high-riding utility vehicles. Once the CUV arrives here in the United States, expect it to come in both two- and all-wheel drive. Reports say BMW will first offer the X1 with the company's workhorse 3.0-liter inline six, which generates 258 horsepower. Eventually, other options may surface.
Availability: Mid 2011
Price: Around $33,000

2011 BMW 335is
As a rule, BMW hasn't created special, lustworthy models just for the U.S. That's set to change for 2011, though. The company has bestowed a new "is" version of the 335 on American shores, and the result is a whole lot of performance at a budget price. The car features a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine that has been massaged to produce 320 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. Engineers also equipped the vehicle with a standard M-suspension, so buyers can look forward to solid track manners.
Availability: On sale now
Price: $50,525

2011 BMW 5-Series Sedan

The BMW 5-Series has gone through yet another generation change for 2011, and the result is a car that attempts to toe the luxury performance line a bit better than the 2010 car. A turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine delivers a healthy 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque in base trim, while a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 dishes out the goods higher up the option list. Look for new styling, too.
Availability: On sale now
Price: Starts at $49,600

2011 BMW 740i/Li
It's been a long time since BMW has bestowed the 7-Series with an inline 6-cylinder engine, but that's exactly what the company has done for 2011. The new 740 and 740Li will come standard with a turbocharged 3.0-liter I6 engine with 315 horsepower, in order to improve the model's fuel efficiency. The move should help the car retain its performance figures while helping to reduce BMW's environmental impact. (In an environmentally uncomfortable coincidence, a 500-horsepower Alpina B7 variant will be available in early 2011, starting at $122,875.)
Availability: On sale now
Price: $70,150

2011 BMW ActiveHybrid 7

In 2011, BMW will continue its foray into hybrid drivetrains with the all-new ActiveHybrid 7. The company partnered with rival Mercedes-Benz on the development of the car's hybrid system, and the result is a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine and an electric motor good for 455 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The giant car manages 20 mpg combined while maintaining premium performance figures.
Availability: On sale now
Price: $102,300

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

2011 BMW X5

BMW is attempting to shake the dust off its X5 by offering the SUV with a slew of new engine choices. The base X5 xDrive35i is equipped with a turbocharged I6 with 305 horsepower, while the X5 xDrive50i boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with a somewhat ridiculous 407 horsepower. Both engines are now mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Availability: Summer 2010
Price: Starts at $47,600

 

Buick

Parent company General Motors is keen on reinventing Buick, and the brand is set to build on the success of 2010 models such as the LaCrosse and Enclave with a handful of new creations for 2011. Expect to see a new side of Buick as the company attempts to go after a much younger audience for the first time in years. The result may very well be an entry-level luxury brand capable of competing in a market dominated by Japanese automakers.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Buick Regal

At the front lines of GM's efforts to convince buyers that this isn't the Buick of old is the all-new Regal. Based largely on the Opel Insignia, the Americanized version will initially get its power from a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 184 horsepower, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Soon thereafter, GM plans to introduce a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder option with 220 horsepower and a 6-speed manual transmission. That's right — a manual in a Buick.
Availability: August 2010
Price: Around $26,000

 

Cadillac
Cadillac is on quite a roll — something it hasn't experienced since the late '60s. Its "do-no-wrong" streak of styling and performance is on par with some of the best manufacturers from Germany, and 2011 doesn't look to break the trend. With the addition of the attractive CTS Coupe and powerful CTS-V Sport Wagon, Cadillac showrooms won't be a bad place to spend time next year.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe

Cadillac hasn't produced a coupe since the Coupe Deville sauntered off into the sunset back in 1993, but that's set to change next year. The long-awaited CTS Coupe will be hitting showrooms in a big way. The car will initially boast the same 304 horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine as the sedan, though later the company plans to offer the same supercharged 6.2-liter V8 found in the CTS-V.
Availability: Summer 2010
Price: Around $37,000

 

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

 

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon

Cadillac has finally decided to give the lovely CTS Sport Wagon a shot of adrenaline. The company will offer the long-roof with the same menacing supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine found in the CTS-V sedan, which means 556 horsepower will be on tap, as well as a slew of brake, suspension and interior upgrades.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Around $65,000

 

Chevrolet
Chevrolet is set to continue building momentum in 2011. The company is still fighting hard to overcome the stigma of bankruptcy and massive government intervention, though a fresh wave of products is doing much to improve the brand's image. Vehicles such as the Camaro, Malibu and Equinox are selling better than the company's forecast, and models such as the upcoming Cruze are set to join that trend.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

Chevrolet is hoping to turn over a new leaf in the compact world with the 2011 Cruze. Where cars such as the Cavalier and Cobalt couldn't stand against the likes of Honda's Civic, this new compact is inexpensive, efficient and stylish — all the things Civic enthusiasts want. Chevrolet is offering the Cruze with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine with 138 horsepower. Both engines will be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Around $15,000

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible
Until now, buyers of the Chevrolet Camaro had to take their muscle car as a hardtop only. For 2011, GM's engineers are set to introduce the new convertible version to take on the comparable Ford Mustang Convertible. Expect the engine program to mirror that of the standard Camaro, including the 304-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 and the 426 horsepower 6.2-liter V8.
Availability: Spring 2011
Price: Around $24,000

2011 Chevrolet Volt

General Motors is doing its best to bring the world's first viable
extended-range hybrid to market with the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. Capable of cruising up to 40 miles on all-electric power, the Volt uses a small internal combustion engine to take care of any range-anxiety woes past that distance. GM has a lot riding on the Volt, including years of research and millions of dollars in development costs, but the low cost to charge and impressive EV range should make it appealing to green-minded buyers.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $40,000

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

Chevrolet is also taking the time to breathe a little life into its Corvette Z06. The car will continue to produce 505 horsepower from the same mammoth 7.0-liter V8 engine, though some of the car's vital details have changed. GM has blessed the sports car with a free-flowing exhaust, and buyers can now opt for a Z07 package that will introduce features such as carbon-ceramic brakes, 20-spoke wheels and magnetic selective ride control.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $74,285

 

Chrysler

While General Motors is beginning to show signs of life after dragging itself through Chapter 11, Chrysler is taking a little longer to heal. The company isn't parading the same flurry of new models as its Detroit-based counterpart. Instead, Chrysler is limping along with many of the same products that have been in showrooms for the past two years, relying heavily on incentives until a fresh wave of Fiat-based cars can come to save the day.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Chrysler 300

Chrysler is hoping to get the company back on the right track by with an all-new 300. Expect to see massive improvements in terms of interior quality and fuel efficiency. That means one of Detroit's thirstiest models may topple the 30 mpg mark for the first time. For fans of the now-iconic styling of the 300, the base lines will likely stay on, with the addition of a new rear end and other style cues.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Around $28,000

 

Dodge
Dodge is still reeling from a significant cash crunch caused by Chrysler's bout with bankruptcy. (And we're still reeling from the alliterative aspects of the former sentence. -Ed.) As a result, we won't be seeing too many new models roll through the factory doors anytime soon. The company does have one significant addition to the showroom, though: the 2011 Charger. Dodge has a lot riding on its remade sedan, and Americans are anxious to see exactly where their tax dollars from the automotive bailout went.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Dodge Charger

Dodge is keeping its lips sealed as far as details go about the next-generation Charger, but we're guaranteed the car will top CAFE standards for fuel consumption and emissions. That's thanks partly to a new 8-speed transmission that should make the most out of the company's efficient new Pentastar V6 engine. The car will continue to be rear-wheel-drive, and odds are that a few performance variations will likely hang around to help the Charger live up to its iconic name.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Around $26,000

 

Ferrari

With economies around the globe rebounding after the nosedive of 2009, exotic car manufacturers such as Ferrari are likely quietly rejoicing. The company looks to be coming out of the sales decline at a full gallop by hitting the market with a new road-going version of a full-blooded race car, the 599 GTO.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Ferrari 599 GTO

While the base Ferrari 599 is nothing to sneeze at straight from the factory, the Italian manufacturer has decided to fit the low-slung snake with a new set of fangs. The car features a 6.0-liter V12 engine, boiled down from the same powerplant in the legendary Enzo. The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive rocket weighs just 3,295 pounds and can hit 60 mph in around three seconds. Top speed is 208 mph.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Starts at $460,000

 

Ford

Ford has continued to build on the momentum it generated last year with the introduction of the 2010 Mustang. For 2011 the year-old muscle car is getting a fresh set of engines, and the company is also introducing its new compact, the Fiesta. While not the testosterone-soaked unveilings of last year, each should play an important role in solidifying the company's already strong product lineup.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Ford Fiesta

Ford is looking to take on cars such as the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit with its new Fiesta. The first of a series of truly global vehicles from Ford, the car is available in both 5-door hatchback and sedan body styles. A 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine provides 120 horsepower while managing up to 40 mpg thanks to well-matched 5-speed manual and dual-clutch transmissions.
Availability: Mid 2010
Price: Starts at $13,320

2011 Ford Explorer
It's been a very long time since Ford has given its Explorer a once-over. For 2011 the SUV that helped to start the craze will abandon its body-on-frame roots for a crossover design. Built on the same chassis that brought us the likes of the Flex, Taurus and Lincoln MKS, the new Explorer will be a bit more civil than its predecessors. When it arrives it should get its power from either a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 or a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Around $29,500

2011 Shelby GT500

Like its less potent siblings, the Shelby GT500 has been completely reworked for 2011. Under the hood, a 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine delivers 550 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Impressive, sure, but Ford engineers also managed to shave over 100 lbs. from the nose of the car alone by switching to an all-aluminum block for the first time in the car's history.
Availability: On sale now
Price: $48,645

 

Honda

Honda is set to broaden its hybrid offerings for 2011. Dealers will finally be getting their hands on the CR-Z sport hybrid — a well-styled 2-seat hatchback that supposedly puts as much of a focus on driving enjoyment as on fuel efficiency. Honda is keeping its secrets in terms of what next year will bring, though we don't expect too many large surprises.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid

Honda fans have long pined for an honest replacement for the old CRX hatchback. The car turned a generation of drivers into enthusiasts with its remarkable blend of handling and fuel efficiency, and the company is looking to repeat history with the CR-Z. At its heart, the hatchback is powered by a 122-horsepower 1.5-liter gasoline engine coupled to Honda's Integrated Motor Assist. Early estimates say the car should be good for 38 mpg highway.
Availability: Early 2011
Price: $23,300

2011 Honda Odyssey

Specs Fuel Tank Capacity: gal.; EPA Mileage Estimates - Automatic (City / Highway / Combined): 19 mpg / 28 mpg / mpg; Range in Miles: mi. / mi. / mi.

The minivan isn't as popular as it once was, but it remains the quintessential form of transportation for families big and small. No other vehicle offers the type of versatility and space for kids and the copious amount of stuff that invariably comes along with them. The 2011 Honda Odyssey is a completely redesigned entry among this dwindling number of minivans, replacing a model that was widely considered to be the best in its class for a decade. In other words, it has some very big shoes to fill.

The 2011 Odyssey is an inch-plus shorter in height than before, but has gained an inch-plus in width, creating a slightly sleeker appearance aided by a wedge-shaped front fascia and unique "lightning-bolt" character line. Aside from being a design flourish, this character line also improves visibility for passengers in the third row of seats, who will also enjoy a greater amount of knee and shoulder room. Honda says three adults can sit back there, but we're thinking the middle spot's fold-down armrest will be utilized more frequently.

Minivans are renowned for setting themselves apart with never-before-seen features. Some, like the Odyssey's flip-and-fold third-row seat became an industry standard, while others, like the last Odyssey's middle-row Lazy Susan storage bin have been quickly forgotten. This time around, the Odyssey introduces a small refrigerated storage compartment beneath the center stack controls, a trash bag holder, second-row seats that shift laterally to make room for child seats and a wide-screen entertainment system with an HDMI input. The new Odyssey also improves upon previously introduced features, like a simplified process for lowering the third-row seat and an enlarged second-row removable middle seat.

Honda has not yet released full details about the 2011 Odyssey's powertrain, but we do know it will continue to only be available with front-wheel drive and a 3.5-liter V6. Honda's cylinder deactivation system is now standard on every Odyssey and fuel economy is estimated to be 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. This is a significant improvement versus the last Odyssey (especially those trims without cylinder deactivation) and better than the new Toyota Sienna's four- and six-cylinder engines.

More details about the 2011 Honda Odyssey will be coming soon, including available trims and equipment, as well as exact dimensions and specifications. Check back for a full review of how this new Odyssey stacks up against its minivan competitors before it hits dealerships in the fall.

MSRP $27,300

 

Hyundai

Hyundai has continued to prove it is a serious competitor capable of beating manufacturers such as Honda and Toyota at their own game. In 2010 the company shocked sports car aficionados and luxury buyers alike with the Genesis Coupe and the Genesis Sedan. In 2011 we will see the company take on the midsize market in a big way, as well as enter a niche segment with an ultraluxury sedan, the Equus.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Hyundai Equus

Hyundai has already proven it is more than capable of producing a quality luxury car with its Genesis Sedan. With the launch of the 2011 Equus, it looks to cement its foothold in the segment. Both wider and longer than the Genesis, the Equus should pack a 420-horsepower V8 engine when it goes on sale here in the U.S. Expect handsome looks and a quality interior to be hallmarks of the car, too.
Availability: July 2010
Price: Less than $60,000

2011 Hyundai Sonata
The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is a milestone for the Korean automaker. With a variety of fuel-efficient engines and an attractive exterior, the car has just one purpose in this world: to run with mainstays such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The Sonata is equipped with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 198 horsepower mated to either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Eventually, a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine will be available, as well as a hybrid version.
Availability: On sale now
Price: Starts at $19,195

 

Infiniti

Expect to see an all-new take on the Infiniti QX56 in 2011. While the rest of the luxury motoring world is shying away from high-riding body-on-frame SUVs, Infiniti has been content to give its battleship a new lease on life with an all-new model. Whether that is enough to help buyers realize that there's a whole showroom of Infiniti products other than the luscious G sedan and coupe is another matter altogether.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Infiniti M

Infiniti has given its big bruiser a new tomorrow thanks to a ground-up redesign. The 2011 Infiniti M now features smooth, handsome bodywork with wide, arched fenders and an aggressive front fascia. Buyers can choose between a 3.7-liter V6 with 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque or a 5.6-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque. Both are bolted to an all-new seven-speed automatic transmission.
Availability: On Sale Now
Price: $46,250

2011 Infiniti QX56
Despite receiving a quick refresh last year, the Infiniti QX56 SUV went under the knife once again for 2011. Those hoping the luxury utility would evolve into something a little less awkward-looking will be disappointed; the truck retains what can only be referred to as a bulbous appearance. That said, there's a 5.6-liter V8 good for 400 horsepower under the rounded hood.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $56,700

Jaguar

Next year will see a change in the one of Jaguar's most iconic models: the XJ. The car has steadily evolved over the years into a truly modern vehicle, but has never strayed too far from its iconic shape. That is, until now. Jaguar is hoping that the new skin on the XJ will help buyers realize that the company has grown well past the reliability woes of days gone by.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Jaguar XJ

Along with its all-new slinky but polarizing bodywork, buyers will find the 2011 Jaguar XJ equipped with a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine. With 385 horsepower on its side and a remarkably light chassis, the XJ manages to be light on its feet and stable at speed. A supercharged version of the same engine will also be available. It produces up to 510 horsepower in Supersport trim and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Availability: Mid 2010
Price: Around $67,000

 

Lexus

Lexus has long been known for high-quality but somewhat sterile luxury cars. For buyers who prefer to blend in rather than make a statement, the Japanese manufacturer has been the go-to brand for years. Expect that to change in 2011. The all-new LFA will be available for what is expected to be the first and last time next year, dropping Lexus into the supercar world in a big way.

WHAT'S NEW . .

2011 Lexus LFA

The 2011 Lexus LFA is a car unlike anything the company has ever produced before. A whole new manufacturing process was developed to accommodate the car's special carbon-fiber bodywork, and a unique V10 engine with 552 horsepower is planted amidships. Lexus is planning to produce only a handful of the cars, each with a $375,000 price tag. The real kicker is that each one is only available for lease.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Starts at $375,000

2011 Lexus CT 200h
The luxury market is about to see a new player come to the table with the CT 200h. The car is breaking into uncharted territory with a hybrid hatchback design. With crisp styling and a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder hybrid engine borrowed from the Toyota Prius, the car should offer excellent fuel economy and all of the creature comfort that Lexus buyers prefer. The engine is mated to a CVT transmission.
Availability: Early 2011
Price: $28,900

 

Lincoln

Hybrid luxury models are more fashionable these days than high-horsepower engines and flashy wheels. To that end, Lincoln is set to dip a pinky toe into the high-end hybrid seas with its new MKZ. The move is likely to boost the car's fuel efficiency and the company's profile among eco-minded luxury buyers, thereby moving Lincoln as far as can be from the gas-guzzling barges of the company's past.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Lincoln MKX

Lincoln has given the MKX a new suit, complete with the company's familial grille and fascia. The new look helps the crossover slot into Ford's luxury stable with a little more confidence than previous iterations, and the MKX comes with a new 3.7-liter V6 with 305 horsepower. Like the refreshed Ford Edge, a slightly revised suspension helps to improve MKX road manners, too.
Availability: Summer 2010
Price: $38,345

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
The big news about the MKZ Hybrid is that Lincoln projects the car will be capable of a staggering 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway. Those are remarkable numbers for a sedan this size. The MKZ Hybrid will get its power from a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid engine. The combination of the electric motor and internal combustion engine results in a total of 191 horsepower.
Availability: Spring 2011
Price: $33,900

 

Mazda

Mazda has officially parted ways with former parent company Ford, but buyers can still expect to see two very similar models on both companies' dealer lots starting next year. Mazda is planning on bringing the all-new Mazda2 to U.S. shores in 2011. The car was a collaborative project with Ford and, as such, shares DNA with the upcoming Fiesta. Mazda is also introducing a healthy new dose of styling to the company's successful Mazda5 people mover.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Mazda Mazda2

Whereas the 2011 Ford Fiesta is focused on bringing high-quality elements to an entry-level price, the Mazda2 seems geared more toward satisfying basic transportation needs.
Under the hood is a 100-horsepower 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. Those components are taken directly from the economy car playbook, and while they likely won't do the car any favors in the drivability department, they are inexpensive, which keeps the overall price down.
Availability: Summer 2010
Price: $14,730

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

2011 Mazda Mazda5
The Mazda5 is due for a refresh, and Mazda's designers have decided to give the people mover a fresh dose of the company's Nagare (meaning "flow") design language. Expect to see new front and rear fascias along with French-curve-happy bodywork down both doors. The overall effect is a fresh face on a vehicle that was getting dangerously close to stale.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $19,260

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz isn't about to slow down its parade of new and refreshed models anytime soon. In 2010 the company focused on fuel economy and small SUVs, with vehicles such as the S400 Hybrid and GLK. Next year it will bring a returned focus on driving emotion. The company's Gullwing successor has proved itself worthy of taking the throne, and the new E-Class Wagon proves that having a family doesn't mean giving up on style.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Mercedes-Benz is swelling the ranks of its E-Class with the addition of two new models, one of which is the E-Class Cabriolet. The new 4-seat convertible is built with comfortable driving in mind no matter what the weather. Using an insulated power soft-top instead of a heavier retractable hardtop, the cabin is quiet and comfortable with the roof in place. Power is provided by either a 5.5-liter V8 engine with 382 horsepower or a 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Starts at $58,000

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
We don't know too much about the upcoming 2011 CLS-Class other than the fact that Mercedes-Benz will likely move the car from the current E-Class platform to an all-new set of bones. Despite the switch, styling is expected to stay fairly close to the current CLS, with just a handful of fascia and fender changes to set the two apart. A hybrid CLS may show up soon after launch.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $72,400

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Few cars are more iconic than the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL. The Silver Arrow is looking to honor the ahead-of-its-time coupe with the all-new SLS AMG, a car that is as powerful as it is tail-happy, er, beautiful. Aside from the striking gull-wing doors, the most significant hardware on the car is the robust 6.3-liter V8 engine. With 563 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, the SLS AMG is nearly guaranteed to go down as a Mercedes-Benz legend.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Around $183,000

2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon
The second vehicle to join the E-Class family is the new E-Class Wagon. Mercedes-Benz seems keen to test the American public's supposed new love for long-roof vehicles, and will offer the car with heaps of styling borrowed from the already handsome E-Class sedan. The company has kept its lips sealed as to what we can expect under the hood, though the same 3.5-liter V6 and 5.5-liter V8 engines found elsewhere in the lineup are both likely.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: $56,200

WHAT'S BEEN REFRESHED . . .

2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

The R-Class hasn't exactly been the sales success that Mercedes-Benz had hoped for, but that may be set to change.
The company is slated to release a refreshed version of the car that has styling more in line with the rest of the company's products. That means a more conservative front fascia, grille and fenders are on the menu, along with a slightly massaged rear bumper.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Around $49,300

Nissan

Nissan is getting ready to make big waves in 2011. The company is set to bring one of the first all-electric cars to market — the Leaf. The success or failure of the car will have a huge impact on the future of the EV market all over the world, so other manufacturers are keeping a close eye on Nissan's experiment. Combined with a low operating cost and overall price, it's hard to imagine the Leaf failing.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Nissan Leaf

The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric car that has no internal-combustion engine. Instead, an 80 kW electric motor can propel the vehicle up to 90 mph. Though range will change depending on accessory use, terrain and the number of passengers in the vehicle, Nissan says that the Leaf is capable of driving up to 100 miles on a single charge — a range that should cover the commutes of 95 percent of Americans. The federal government will issue a $7,500 tax credit for the purchase of the Leaf.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Starts at $32,780 ($25,280 after tax credit)

2011 Nissan Juke
Nissan is planning on bringing a new take on the CUV to market next year called the Juke. The high-riding, 4-door hatchback is about as far from conventional as you can get. If you look closely, it's easy to pick out familial styling cues from models such as the Murano, but the design is anything but derivative. Expect a 180-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine under the hood coupled to a continuously variable transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission.
Availability: Spring 2011
Price: Starts at $17,700

 

Porsche

When Porsche first minted the Cayenne back in 2002, brand purists revolted. The mere thought of an SUV in the sports car maker's portfolio was sacrilege. Fast forward eight years and the Cayenne is one of the company's most popular models. Porsche is set to rework the truck for 2011 and its taking the opportunity to strike off in a new direction once again with a hybrid option.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Porsche Cayenne
Starting next year, Cayenne buyer

s will have five trims from which to choose. Those include the powerful Cayenne Turbo and the new, more efficient Cayenne S Hybrid. In Turbo trim, the SUV packs a twin-turbocharged 4.8-liter V8 engine with 500 horsepower. Meanwhile, the all-new Cayenne S Hybrid comes from the factory with a more than capable combined 380 horsepower from a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and an electric motor. That setup is said to yield a remarkable 28.7 mpg.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Around $45,500

2010 Porsche 911 Turbo
Porsche has upped the ante in a big way with its 911 Turbo. The car is now capable of a blisteringly fast 3.2-second zero to 60 mph run, thanks to a new 500 horsepower turbocharged 3.8-liter flat six-cylinder engine. The company's PDK double-clutch transmission takes care of shifting duties, and the suspension has been completely retuned with aluminum in place of steel for the major components.
Availability: On sale now
Price: $132,800

 

Toyota

Toyota didn't have the greatest of years in 2010. The company was beleaguered with wave after wave of recalls due to everything from rusting truck frames to unintended acceleration; as a result, the Japanese automaker has lost some of its reputation for quality. Don't expect to see too many new models from the company in 2011.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Toyota Avalon

Toyota is looking to distance its mid-level luxury sedan from the well-to-do Lexus stable with a fresh redesign for 2011. The new Avalon will wear a new front clip with smaller, more streamlined headlights, and the rear now boasts LED taillights. Under the redesigned hood is a 3.5-liter V6 with 268 horsepower coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can also expect luxury tech to come standard, including Bluetooth hands-free calling.
Availability: On Sale Now
Price: Around $32,245

2011 Toyota Sienna
Whether you realize it or not, minivans are still many families' first choice when it comes to shuffling people and cargo from one place to another. Toyota has finally given its Sienna a makeover, complete with new bodywork designed to give the van a little bit of an edge. There are five trim levels from which to choose, and buyers can opt for either front- or all-wheel drive. Engine choices range from a 187-horsepower 2.7-liter 4-cylinder to a more capable 266-horsepower 3.5-liter V6.
Availability: On sale now
Price: $24,260

Volkswagen

Volkswagen is aiming to dive into the hybrid market for 2011. While the company has traditionally put its stock in clean-diesel technology, the second-generation Touareg will be the first VW model to try its hand at getting power from an electric motor. Whether or not we see more hybrids from the German manufacturer will likely have much to do with how the new Touareg fares once it hits the market next year.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen seems to be running against the current manufacturing trend by stepping away from globalization in a big way. The company will produce a new Jetta in its Chattanooga, Tenn., facility for 2011, and the car will share little with the products that Volkswagen sells elsewhere in the world. Expect the car to be larger than the current-generation Jetta but priced to compete with the likes of the Honda Civic.
Availability: Fourth quarter 2010
Price: Around $17,000

2011 Volkswagen New Beetle
Volkswagen is keeping the specifics of its upcoming Beetle successor close to its chest, so details are scarce at the moment. We do know that the design will feature a more aggressive roofline and a slightly longer wheelbase. Chances are Volkswagen will continue to raid the corporate closet for driveline options, so expect to see everything from a 2.5-liter five-cylinder to turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline and diesel choices.
Availability: Early 2011
Price: Around $18,690

2011 Volkswagen Touareg
Volkswagen has given the Touareg an all-new body that's significantly lighter than the outgoing model — and prettier, too. When combined with an all-new hybrid drivetrain (a 3.0-liter V6 engine and an electric motor good for a total of 375 horsepower), the company expects the SUV to achieve around 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway. VW will also continue to offer many of the same engines previously available.
Availability: Fall 2010
Price: Starts at $23,200

 

Volvo

Like its compatriot Saab, Swedish carmaker Volvo saw its ownership change hands last year. Formerly owned by Ford, the company is now in the possession of Geely Automotive Group — a Chinese automaker. While analysts predicted that the company would soon see quality falter as a result, Volvo's new ownership thus far seems content to let the company do as it did before the sale. That's good news for fans of the brand and consumers alike.

WHAT'S NEW . . .

2011 Volvo S60

Volvo has long been the brand to buy if you wanted a safe family vehicle. Conservative designs and lackluster power (on most models) were also trademarks of the brand. The S60 looks to stand that perception on its head. Branded the "naughty" Volvo by the company's advertising agency, the car is sleek and stylish. It also comes equipped with more than enough power to get you where you're going, thanks to an optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque.
Availability: Late 2010
Price: Around $26,200