10. Jeep Stroller

Though parents haven't been buying Chrysler vehicles as quickly as the company may like, they love those Jeep-branded strollers. With a reputation for toughness, the baby-moving business isn't a huge stretch for the brand. If they could get as many families into Jeep Commanders as they could into Jeep Commander Strollers the company might be in better shape. [JeepWorld]

9. Renault F1 Backgammon Set

In addition to branding special-edition cars, like the Renaultsport 197 Clio, the Renault F1 team has spread into the fast-paced world of table gaming. Made of real Formula One materials like carbon fiber, sterling silver and F1-style glass laminate, the Renault backgammon set is quite fetching. Even more impressive than the board's careful design is the set's $27,000 price.

8. Hummer Drinking Glasses

When we think about the current plight of the Hummer brand, we suddenly think we want a stiff drink. That's why we're glad HUMMER offers officially licensed drinking glasses, large enough for a few ice cubes and a few ounces of Wild Turkey. And while drinking alcohol and driving cars are two hobbies we think should be kept separate, Hummer offers them on their special branding website along with Hummer golf balls and Hummer spare-tire covers. At just $21.95, it's just the fraction of a cost of a fill-up. [Hummer Stuff]

7. Ducati Flash Drive

Why is there a Ducati Flash Drive? Because Harley doesn't think their buyers know how to use a computer. In addition to looking a lot like a Ducati bike, the flash drive achieves a 20MB read/write speed, making it the fastest consumer drive offered by SanDisk. Oh, and there's a special lanyard!

6. Mini Cooper Luggage

Automaker-branded luggage isn't unique because associating your brand with all forms of travel is an easy connection. But we have to give extra credit to Mini for their branded luggage, which is not only small but also features more than just a "Mini" emblem. The lining of the bags are in the style of a Union Jack flag, and the rolling wheels look like Mini wheels. A Cooper-esque laptop bag is also smart branding given that every other Mini owner also has a MacBook.

5. Porsche Gaming Gear

The Porsche gaming wheel is sure to capture the hearts and minds of those aspiring for a supercar when they move out of the room over their parent's garage. The shifter looks great and it's a lot closer to being auto-related than most useless Porsche-branded products.

4. Asus Lamborghini Smartphone

Any automaker can brand a phone, but props to Lamborghini for branding one killer smartphone. Quad-band GSM? Check. Tri-band WCDMA? Check. GPRS and Edge? Check. Real GPS? Check. Most Lamborghini owners won't know what any of that means, but Lamborghini has successfully positioned itself as a brand always at the extreme.

3. Bugatti Cologne

If you're willing to spend $1.3 million on a supercar, should it be that much of a stretch to spend about $2,750 on a cologne? If you can't afford a Bugatti, at the very least you can smell like one. Delivered with a special holder in a carbon fiber briefcase, the Bugatti cologne is audacious in way that only such an exclusive automaker could pull off. [YouTube]

2. Ferrari Segway

There's a risk to lending your name to a different form of transportation, but when you're Ferrari and said product is a gyroscopically controlled Ferrari Segway scooter you have a perfect gift for the Ferrari owner who can afford anything. While the Ferrari Segway doesn't go any faster and still costs $12,000, it's got that great red paint job and says to other Segway users that you're willing to go the extra mile to prove you've got money to burn.

1. NASCAR Brand Meat Snacks

If you asked the average NASCAR fan what they loved most they'd probably say "stock car racing." If you asked them the thing they loved second most was, it would probably be prepackaged meat products. Whether it's a hot dog or a burger, NASCAR meat is the ultimate non-automotive auto tie-in. And, to cap off the unparalleled achievement of finally bridging the gap between pork products and oval track racing, the marketing geniuses behind this grabbed the slogan "Taste The Excitement." It's just so...beautiful. [Taste The Excitement]

Lincoln MKT Spy Report
Lincoln's Ford Flex-based MKT crossover made an appearance in Death Valley to do some hot-weather mountain runs in the 120-degree heat. Our desert sighting gave us a chance to get a closer look at the MKT, and this production model's faithful transition from the MKT concept which appeared at the last Detroit Auto Show.

Ford made the MKT's future official with an announcement at the recent Pebble Beach Concours dElegance, confirming that the Lincoln would be built alongside the Ford Flex at Ford's Oakville, Ontario assembly plant. A 3.7-liter, V-6 engine will power the standard MKT, while the MKS' EcoBoost turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 will be optional, putting 340 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque at the ready. A six-speed automatic transmission be used in all MKTs.

A glass roof was visible on this prototype, to add to the MKT's upmarket cachet.

Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: Yes
Fashion Victims: Yes
Treehuggers: No
Mack Daddies: No
Tuner Crowd: No
Hairdressers: Yes
Penny Pinchers: No
Euro Snobs: No
Working Stiffs: No
Technogeeks: No
Poseurs: Yes
Soccer Moms: No
Nascar Dads: No
Golfing Grandparents: Yes

Also Consider:
• Audi A5
• BMW 335i Coupe
• Lexus SC4... ahh screw it, if you're reading this you don't want the Lexus
• Mercedes CLK350
• Nissan 350Z
• Waiting for the 2010 Infiniti GT-R

Vitals:
• Manufacturer: Infiniti
• Model year: 2008
• Base Price: $35,550
• Price as Tested: $40,015
• Engine type: 3.7-liter V6
• Horsepower: 330 @ 7,000 RPM
• Torque: 270 @ 5,200 RPM
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual
• Curb Weight: 3,668 lbs
• LxWxH: 183.1" x 71.8" x 54.95"
• Wheelbase: 112.2"
• Tires: P225/45R-P245/40R
• 0 - 60 mph: 5.4 Seconds
• EPA Fuel economy city/highway: 17/26 MPG
• NHTSA crash test rating: N/A

Also see:

• 2008 Infiniti G37S, Part One
• 2008 Infiniti G37S, Part Two

Being a self-proclaimed car nut, she's obsessed with the 1989-93 Fox-body Mustangs, which seems like an appropriately NASCAR choice. Her favorite driver isn't actually her ex, but rather Jimmie Johnson. Ouch. It looks like Elisabetta Gregoraci has some competition in the "motorsports-associated significant others not quite as hot as Ingrid Vandebosch" contest. [FHM Online]

Acceleration: ****
Like a deceased minor character in a bad zombie movie, the G37S comes to life quicker than you'd expect. This has less to do with the wonderful 330 HP 3.7-liter V6 than it does with the clutch, which feels like it engages an inch away from the floor. It's a bit jarring, but you learn to adapt to it and it helps the coupe reach 60 mph in the mid five-second range.

Braking: ****
During a late-night acceleration test on an abandoned back road I was suddenly convinced someone's beloved pet dog was about to wander into my path and become soup. The Infiniti's vented disc brakes bit down hard enough for me to realize that the object in the distance was actually just a rock.

Ride: **
If this were the 2010 Nissan 370Z and not the G37S, the relatively rough ride would be an acceptable and expected trade-off for performance. While the G37S performs well on carefully maintained surfaces, the ride's going to be a bit too rough for the owner that plans on crossing unpreserved patches of pavement on the way to the country club. Driving down an avenue that had yet to receive proper rehab since at least the previous winter, it felt as though someone had clicked on the non-existent massage chair option.

Handling: ***
There aren't many situations where the average owner of this car is going to be unable to stay glued to the road. The quick steering, coupled with grippy summer tires, made it quite an effort to get the rear end to slide out at all. As mentioned in part one, if there's one major shortcoming with the car's handling it's that the heavy weighting of the steering wheel, combined with the quick drive-by-wire response, makes it physically taxing to drive spiritedly over a long period of time, and mentally taxing to determine just how spiritedly the car is going to respond to inputs.

Gearbox: ***
Though the shifter is well positioned and the throws are reasonably short, the six-speed manual transmission in the G37S is one of the car's weaknesses. If you're forced to drive this car in heavy traffic at frequent intervals, the newfound strength developed in your left leg will cause you to walk in circles. The clutch also picks up a new gear almost before you realize you've gotten rid of the old one.

Audio: ****
Though the interface takes some getting used to (why the hell do I have to push DISC to get a playlist on my iPod?), the Infiniti iPod connection is one of the best examples of MP3 integration we've seen. The gigantic 7-inch screen didn't connect to a GPS system and basically served as a multimedia interface, allowing me to see full playlists and song names. The Bose audio system created a crisp sound that filled the cabin and outmatched many of my low-bitrate audio files.

Toys: ***
Though a first aid kit that Velcros into the trunk may not be a toy for most people, I thoroughly enjoyed the novelty of it. Having no GPS system, the bright 7-inch screen is mostly a toy, letting the driver choose between entertainment and climate settings...and not much else.

Value: ****
An Infiniti G37 loaded with the Premium package, Sport package, $550 rear spoiler and destination charge comes in just lower than the base price for both the BMW 335i coupe and Audi A5. Though the BMW may appeal to the performance minded and the Audi has its own partisans, they're both in direct competition with the G37 and neither offer overwhelmingly superior performance or features. Cut out the $3,200 Premium package and you've got an even better deal.

Overall: ***
Having watched way too much of the Olympics, I've come to think of the Infiniti G37S as world-class gymnast, albeit one that's fought its way through countless rounds of qualifying only to take a step on the landing and somehow, mysteriously, displease the Australian judge. Its an adept performer, able to run with its European competitors but, due to a few minor technical deductions, unable to pass them for the gold.

Also see:

• 2008 Infiniti G37S, Part One

10. Nissan GT-R

It's not hard to appreciate the 2009 Nissan GT-R. Unlike almost anything on the road, this latest iteration of the famous Japanese supercar not only outperforms many of its pricier competitors, it also offers a look that's both familiar and fresh. The aggressive front and strong profile makes no secret of the GT-R's ability.

9. Mitsuoka Galue Convertible

Whereas the strange-in-the-wrong-way Orochi from Mitsuoka may be one of the ugliest cars in the world, the Mitsuoka Galue Convertible is very much strange in the right way. Based on the current-generation Ford Mustang, the carriagemakers at Mitsuoka have crafted on the front from a Rolls Royce and the rear from a CTS. It's strange, but we can't help but love it. [Photo Credit: Carscoop]

8. Nissan Teana

While the current Nissan Altima isn't unattractive, the car's Japanese cousin is downright becoming. The sedan's elongated proportions and sweeping lines are distinctly European, while the sharp headlights and large grille are particularly Nissan. Let's hope this is the direction they're going to take American Nissans sometime soon.

7. Honda S2000 Type S

As much as we like the base Honda S2000, the S2000 Type S takes the modest and becoming sports car and adds a dash of Super Potential to the equation. Though some may fault it for its large wing and aggressive ground effects, these bits not only add aerodynamic function to the S2000, they also add much needed teeth. If you've got a hankering for one, the Honda S2000 CR is fairly similar.

6. Mazda RX-8

A minor refresh this year hasn't changed the fact that the Mazda RX-8 design is getting a bit long in the tooth. Nevertheless, the RX-8 is still a head-turner. A mixture of rotary-inspired shapes and exotic details, it's a car that only Mazda could design. One of the best-looking rear 3/4 views of any GT, we're glad those rad rotarians finally added a front to match with the 2009 RX-8.

5. Daihatsu Copen

One of the favorites among Kei Car enthusiasts, the tiny Copen from Daihatsu may not be the most powerful car on the list (in fact, it's the least powerful) but it's undeniably the cutest. In the tradition of tiny roadsters, the Copen looks like something fun a British company like MG would build if British carmakers like MG weren't all owned by the Chinese and Indians. It's proof that good things do sometimes come in small packages.

4. Toyota Century

A love for the Toyota Century is a love for a car that personifies understated luxury. Way understated. The only front-engined, RWD Japanese car to get V12 power, the Century has only been redesigned twice in the last 40 years of its production. Thought it costs nearly $100,000, it doesn't have the "Look at me, look at me!" cues of a Lexus, Mercedes or Bentley. Tasteful and reserved, the Century is the luxury car of the cunning diplomat. [Photo Credit: Yehey Forums]

3. Mazda MX-5 (Miata)

In addition to being a competitive LeMons racer, the MX-5 has historically been a low-key but sleek roadster, and the latest iteration is no different. The slightly flared fenders, rounded surfaces and low profile are timeless and beautiful.

2. Toyota Mark X

One of the best looking sedans that few people have ever heard of, the sleek Toyota Mark X may be related to the American Lexus GS300 but in a way that makes us think one of the two was secretly adopted. This RWD sedan has the shapely curves of an E-Class Mercedes combined with the sloping and textured nose of an Alfa (sans the crest) and that wonderful disregard for subtlety that makes us love Japanese cars.

1. Infiniti G37

The Infiniti G37 is a coupe that just missed getting placed on our most beautiful cars list. A drastic improvement over the previous generation, the G37 practically sparkles in person. Unlike most Japanese luxury cars, the sculptors of the G37 took chances with the design. The gently raked beltline and 1980s-professional-woman wide shoulders balance the feminine and the masculine like few modern cars can. But it's the details, like the 10-spoked wheels and creased grille, that make this otherwise toned-down coupe scream.

Here it is fan-boys, this is a photo we've waited patiently to see for what seems like an eternity. This photo of the threesome of new muscle cars from Detroit is the first time the 2010 Chevy Camaro RS, a 2009 Ford Mustang CS and a 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 have all been captured in the same photo. Yes, we traveled a great distance, risked a great deal and received quite a mouthful from one snarling PR person in order to bring you this first shot of the trio. Although well worth it, at least one staffer on site wasn't as happy to have a picture of Chevy's new muscle car taken as we'd hoped he would be. Whatever. Credit Ford and Dodge for being pleased as punch to welcome back the Camaro to the muscle car war block in the best way they know how — by letting us rev the engines of their latest entries hard outside San Diego's Hard Rock Hotel. They would have preferred to do a burnout, but there were too many law enforcement officers around. Check back later on tonight for the full story, complete with video as we show just how hot these muscle car wars are getting! Many thanks to the Craig from Streetfire, Garage419 and Ned Hepburn!

The three of us pile our gear into the G37S (first stop cemetery, second stop beach) and we notice a peculiar sign posted inside the trunk. It's an illustration of the rear of the car explaining, in three languages, how to insert a pair of golf bags. Most of the people I knew with this car's predecessor, the G35, were professional twentysomethings with jobs in graphic design and no clue how to spend their money. With this latest version it seems, superficially at least, they've jumped straight to waning midlife crisis.

After trudging through the slow moving traffic that tends to form along the commercial thoroughfares of Chicago, we reach the glorious, though brief, expanse of Lake Shore Drive leading to Evanston and our destination. I purposefully wait at the yellow light, hoping to be at the front of the line to tackle the mostly sheltered onramp. As a first test I leaned hard on the G37's go pedal when the light turned green, hoping to determine the ratio of sport to luxury in this sports luxury coupe but not expecting much. Given how relatively docile the Infiniti's V6 is at low speed I was a bit caught off guard at how rapidly we accelerated up the ramp and into traffic.

I quickly shifted into second, but barely had my bearings before the red tach needle, bathed in a purplish light, bounced against the redline. Oops. Though there's a deep engine note, the well-sealed cabin doesn't allow exterior sounds to dampen the conversation. Ours turned to the proper way to pull up the playlist of an iPod on the large screen in the center of the dash instead of a discussion of how clumsily I launched us onto the highway. It was then I realized that this is a sports car, but one designed with an eye towards hiding that fact from its passengers.

Though there's a lot that keeps the car's athletic nature from the passengers, including the sleek and modern interior, the ride over the uneven and damaged roads leading away from the highway and towards the final resting place is punishing. The plush and aerated leather seats do a decent job of absorbing the blows being translated through the suspension, which in S trim is firmed up a bit, but there's a click every time we hit the slightest bump. It turns out the sound was the clip in the rear passenger's hair hitting the rear glass. It was lucky for her she wasn't any taller.

I pull the G37S through the main arch of the front gate, which is designed to mimic the Alpha and the Omega. The beginning and the end. Unfortunately, the office is closed and we have no idea where, amid the hundreds of plots, his ancestors are actually buried. Though there are narrow concrete paths through the grounds you can only do the searching on foot. After a while having no luck finding his unique last name among the typically Irish-Catholic names (Murphy, Kennedy, O'Brien) I stop to take stock of the coupe.

Compared to the even the most ornamented tributes, the G37S looks almost gaudy. Though in a more austere coat of silver, the massive chrome grille shone like a beacon when the clouds began to break and the 10-spoke wheels practically glittered. Compared to the light coat of paint, the rich red taillights are practically jewels. If the eyes of the dead are upon us, they're thinking we've come along way since the Great Famine.

The cemetery was a truly beautiful and holy place and we were all glad we came. One last time we hoped for some sort of divine inspiration to help us divine the location of the gravestone's, a voice from the other side. We had no such luck. Content that we'd tried our best we set out for the curvy roads ahead, hoping to communicate with the athletic beast lurking beneath the luxurious visage.

The aggressive sports car behind the massive grille came to life as we zipped up and down the ravine, seeming unimpressed with what we considered fun roads. The faster I pushed the car and the harder I sent it into the corners the more unconcerned it became. It wasn't an easy exercise — it took considerable effort and numerous steering inputs to keep it inline — but I was unable to find the point where the G37 was ready to cry uncle.

This apparently indefatigability initially seems like a good trait as, with most cars, the limits are all too apparent. But this didn't feel like an issue of performance but rather of communication. The car's many drive-by-wire and sensor-controlled steering systems work a bit too well, making it hard to get a feel for when the coupe is about to oversteer. The car understood my inputs, but I found it difficult to understand what the car was telling me.

In linguistics, the part of verbal communication not directly related to the phonetic sounds of the words is called prosody. When we stress certain words or draw them out we're trying to send a message, but this is a complex concept and one of the biggest reasons why KITT-like computer-human interaction doesn't work very well. Sadly, the computer inside the G37 is quite smart but it didn't seem to tell me what it planned to do next. I couldn't understand its prosodics.

After a while we gave up and moved on to the beach. We couldn't communicate with the dead and our vehicle couldn't communicate with us, but at the very least pulling up to the beach in a shiny Infiniti coupe communicates to those around us that we've arrived.

Also see:

• 2008 Infiniti G37S, Part Two

"After driving several Ram models in a variety of scenarios, we're still as enthusiastic about the 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 as we were when it was first reveled at the Detroit auto show. Most half-ton truck buyers don't need three-quarter-ton towing and hauling capability in their pickups, and we think most people will find the improved ride comfort a more-than-fair tradeoff for trailering and payload ratings that equal what the Ram could do in 2008."

Sounds to us like Dodge is making a laser-light-like move directly at the half-ton market — maybe the remaining engineers over at Chrysler have the right idea after all. Head on over to PickupTrucks.com to read all about it — and take a run through the gallery below to see it.

[PickupTrucks.com]

10.) Hummer H1

Why It's Bad: On the off chance the girl you're meeting to date is an environmentalist, the largest of all Hummers is likely to displease her right off the bat. Even if she doesn't care about a gas guzzler, the tough-looking H1 might make you look wimpy.
What It Says About You: The H1 is simultaneously a gigantic SUV, a convertible and shines like a piece of jewelry. This truck says you're insecure, overspend and are probably going through a midlife crisis.
Alternative: Why not just buy a Hummer H2 — same insecurity and gas mileage at half the price?

9. 1970s Pontiac Trans Am

Why It's Bad: The vintage Pontiac Trans Am's screamin' chicken doesn't impress the ladies quite as well now as it did with Burt Reynolds at the wheel. Because of the lifestyles of the original owners, many of the cars also smell like a mixture of Camel Lights and cheap beer.
What It Says About You:You got this car as a 16th birthday present and it was the coolest thing that happened to you since your parents let you live in the basement. Unfortunately, you still live in your parent's basement.
Alternative: Nothing says cool guy from the 1970s like the much classier GTO.

8. A Hearse

Why It's Bad: Unless you're trying to pick up a girl working part time as a cashier at the local mall's Hot Topic, no one likes the sight of a death wagon pulling up to their door step. Though the hearse offers spacious and luxurious appointment, your date isn't going to get close enough to the vehicle to appreciate those facts.
What It Says About You: You are creepy. You watch horror films constantly. You work at a funeral home.
Alternative: If you can get your hands on a hearse you can probably get your hands on a normal American luxury car. You can even get it in black.
[Photo: ParksSuperior]

7. Soccer Mom Minivan — Any Make Or Model

Why It's Bad:Normally, you want to convince your date you're a youthful, fun guy that's doing well and has a thirst for life. Hard to do when you open the sliding door to put something in the back seat.
What It Says About You: You have kids and therefore are likely a divorcee and possibly distrustful of women. If you claim you don't have kids you're probably lying and using the van to cheat on your wife.
Alternative: Most soccer moms these days drive SUVs anyways. Trade up to an Explorer if you want the space and hatch.

6. Can-Am Spyder Trike

Why It's Bad: Not quite a motorcycle and not quite a car, the Can-Am Spyder is definitely a conversation starter. Unfortunately, the conversation starts with "where do I sit on that thing?" and ends with "I'm not going to get that close to a stranger." A Can-Am rider already looks like a monkey having relations with a gorilla. Two riders look like a monkey having relations with another monkey having relations with a gorilla.
What It Says About You: You're macho enough to want the thrill of open-air driving but not skilled enough or cool enough to ride an actual motorcycle.
Alternative: A Mazda Miata offers open-top thrills and seat-of-your-pants driving without the awkward closeness. As a bonus, she'll think your car is "cute."

5. Old Cadillac Limo

Why It's Bad: Picking up your date in a new limo with a driver is a little cliche, but showing up as the driver of your very own limo is just sad. Who wants to ride up front in a limo?
What It Says About You: You have a side job as a limo driver. You can't pass up a deal. You want to pretend like you're rich but you're really not.
Alternative: A used Lincoln Town Car isn't that expensive and makes you look like a businessman, not a poser.
[Photo: JimsMintCars]

4. Custom Painted Van

Why It's Bad: A custom van, especially one with a built-in bed, already sends a message about forwardness. Add layers of custom paint and you've got a wagon that hasn't impressed a girl in more than a quarter of a century.
What It Says About You: I live in a collective art colony. I have a mustache. I don't have a job. Obviously, I live in this van. Yes, more than likely it is down by the river.
Alternative: Vanning is so old. All the cool Japanese kids are into Dekotora now.

3. AMC Gremlin

Why It's Bad: While your date shouldn't fault you for driving an economy car, we wouldn't blame her for faulting you for driving one of the original economy cars. Not even as cool as a Pacer, the Gremlin is not a cool classic like a vintage Mustang. It's just an old, cheap car.
What It Says About You: You picked up an extra shift working at the comic book store so the lucky lady you met on Match.com is going to be able to get the extra large curly fries with her Arby's roast beef sandwich.
Alternative: At least a vintage Pacer has the novelty of having starred in Wayne's World.

2. Panel Van

Why It's Bad:Unless you own a florist shop or bakery, the used panel van is historically the vehicle of choice for criminals and deviants. Also, no girl wants to step into a van that still has the logo for "Franklin's Dog Grooming" peeling off the side.
What It Says About You: You may have seen me on America's Most Wanted or To Catch A Predator.
Alternative: If you want a cheap, used commercial vehicle why not just buy an old white truck from the city lot? [Photo: AvonHill]

1. Off-Duty Taxi Cab

Why It's Bad: Your date will be expecting you to get out of the back; when you get out of the front she's going to turn off the lights in her house. Cabs typically smell like feet and are covered in used gum.
What It Says About You: You're only partially employed. You have no room for upward employment. You like to work nights because you're awake anyway.
Alternative: A used police car offers all of the advantages of the Crown Vic and usually comes with a push-bar.
[Photo: Getty Images]

GM Announces $500 Million Investment for New Small Car

New Chevrolet Cruze to be built in Lordstown, Ohio

All-new Chevrolet Cruze Features Dramatic Design (Press Release)

Lordstown, OHIO – General Motors Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Rick Wagoner today announced that the company will invest more than $500 million in the U.S. to build the Chevrolet Cruze, an all-new global compact car. The vehicle will be built at its Lordstown, Ohio plant. The Chevy Cruze will be officially unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in a few short weeks. In a surprise move, the investment announcement was accompanied by a glimpse of the Cruze life-size show property.

The investment in Lordstown is one of several that have been announced at U.S. plants in the past five years, adding up to over $2 billion total investment in Ohio and more than $20 billion in the United States. "One of the key reasons for the success of the Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5 is the Lordstown workforce and the strong partnerships with the UAW and local and state officials," Wagoner said. "Based on the quality of work and these strong partnerships, we are pleased to announce our plans to invest another $500 million in the Chevy Cruze product program in the U.S., including more than $350 million in Lordstown."

Ed Peper, GMNA vice president of Chevrolet, spoke to GM's strong position in delivering fuel-efficient vehicles that consumers want to buy. "The Cruze will build on the already successful Chevrolet Cobalt, Cobalt XFE and Cobalt SS, all of which are nearly sold out in dealer showrooms," Peper said. "Our dealers are asking for many more Cobalts than we can build."

Chevrolet Cobalt sales are up 16 percent, year-to-date through July 2008, with an impressive 33 miles-per-gallonhighway. The new Cobalt XFE model jumps to 37 miles-per-gallon and is selling almost as soon as it's unloaded from the delivery trucks to dealerships.

The Chevrolet Cruze epitomizes the global nature of the automobile industry and General Motors' commitment to deliver fuel efficient, high-quality products. Cruze is the result of a development process harnessing GM's global design and engineering expertise. It is the first of a new family of compact Chevrolets that will continue the attention to quality, fuel efficiency, and strong value promise of the highly successful Malibu and all other vehicles under the Chevrolet brand.

"The Chevrolet Cruze was designed and engineered by our global teams in Europe and Asia Pacific and will be manufactured in those regions in addition to the assembly plant here in Lordstown, Ohio," Wagoner said. "Our goal for the Chevrolet Cruze is to lead in fuel economy in this very competitive car segment."

The new Cruze will be launched in Europe and Asia Pacific next year. It's scheduled to make its European debut at the Paris Motor Show in October.

General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 77 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 266,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 35 countries. In 2007, nearly 9.37 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

Photo Credit: Getty Images / Bill Pugliano

We're imagining this planted in the front yard of a house overseen by some really obnoxious housing association, with a label of "art" hung from the bits of dangling debris. Take that, The Man, right before you fine the bejesus out of the owner. (Thanks for the tip Benjamin) [eBay Listing]

All-new Chevrolet Cruze features dramatic design

Detroit - The first photographs of Chevrolet's all-new Cruze sedan - making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October - reveal a dynamic four-door coupe that proves exciting design and value are not mutually exclusive.

On sale beginning in Europe from March next year, Cruze features a dramatic re-interpretation of the traditional sedan featuring Chevrolet's new global design language that is becoming a signature on all new products carrying the gold bowtie.

Cruze's arching roof-line, extending from the steeply raked windshield to its sloping rear pillars and short rear deck, brings coupe-like proportions to a compact sedan.

Wider and longer than most of its competitors, Cruze has a purposeful stance with its wheels located at the outer edges of the tautly drawn bodywork. Noticeably tight body panel fits and a restrained use of exterior trim add to a high quality, 'hewn from solid' appearance.

Cruze's dramatic profile is matched by bold front styling, with large headlamp housings that wrap around the front corners and sweep up, arrow-like, into the fenders and sculpted hood. Other distinct design themes include a concave shoulder line, the two-tier grille and a "wheels-out/body-in" stance. Inside, Cruze features a 'twin cockpit' design motif, first introduced in the iconic Corvette sports car.

"Our goal in designing Cruze was to be bold, not evolutionary," says chief designer Taewan Kim. "We wanted to take a big step forward, making a strong design statement for Chevrolet products around the world."

Visitors to the Paris show will see how Chevrolet's progressive design is also reflected in the quality of Cruze's interior. The use of grained surfaces, soft-touch materials and low gloss trim panels ensures a quality ambience that echoes the clean, harmonious design of the exterior.

At launch in Europe, Cruze will be available with 16-valve, 1.6-liter (112 hp/82 kW) and 1.8-liter (140 hp/103 kW) gasoline engines featuring variable valve timing (VVT) on both inlet and exhaust sides, giving more power as well as better fuel economy and lower emissions. A new 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp/ 110 kW and 320 Nm of torque adds power with even greater frugality. Five-speed manual gearboxes and an all-new automatic transmission, Chevrolet's first six-speed application in the compact segment, complete the powertrain menu.

With sales in Europe up by 23 percent for the first six months of 2008, Chevrolet is GM Europe's fastest-growing mainstream brand. The arrival of Cruze spearheads an exciting new product roll-out program that is expected to propel the brand to even greater success.

"We are proud that Europe is leading the introduction for this global product," said Wayne Brannon, Executive Director, Chevrolet Europe. "Chevrolet has always stood for expressive value and Cruze delivers on that promise like never before. It further redefines Chevrolet with its design, quality, materials and great style inside and out. The fit and finish for gaps and interfaces sets a new standard for this segment in Europe and around the world."

Cruze is the result of a development process harnessing GM's global expertise and is the first of a new family of compact products that will deliver world class quality. It will be backed by expected highest scores in all major crash safety ratings.

The Chevrolet Cruze will be available in Europe from March 2009, followed by other global markets with regional-specific engine choices.

###

10. Audi R8

Years of female empowerment public service announcements and deodorant ads have convinced us it's possible to be both athletic and beautiful. But even in a world without "Girl Power" the Audi R8 is extant proof that strong is sexy. Despite its Lamborghini heritage, there are no scissor doors or fighter jet inspired vents. The R8 is one of the few modern mid-engined cars that's actually subtle and, therefore, the object of burglar's desire.

9. Fiat 500

Like a beautiful handle on the entrance to a towering gothic church, the Fiat 500 is the epitome of a brilliant design sometimes overlooked. Coming from the land and company that produces Lamborghinis and Ferraris it was the 500 that captured the European Car Of The Year trophy in 2007. Though quasi-retro, the inexpensive 500 stands out like a Hungarian wax pepper in a world of milquetoast economy cars. We applaud Layabout for selecting it.

8. Citroen C6

Louis Armstrong famously said that "If you have to ask what Jazz is, you'll never know." We think we can apply this sentiment to the Citroen C6. Clearly the funkiest car on our list, the Citroen nevertheless manages to capture everything wonderful about French car design. The designers effectively grab one line at the nose and effortlessly stretch it back to the uniquely designed taillights. It's as though the car was painted in one stroke. The integration of the Citroen logo into the grille is as attractive as it is clever. No wonder that both Chirac and Muhnkee_2 chose the C6 as their official state cars.

7. Jaguar XK Coupe

Though not always the most reliable cars on the market, Jaguar coupes have traditionally set the standard for elegance and beauty and the latest Jaguar XK coupe is no exception. An evolution of a design that goes back to the original E-type, the Jaguar is a design that gets better each time you look at it.

6. Audi RS6 Avant

Putting our bias towards wagons aside, the Audi RS6 Avant may be the most understated performance car on the planet. Powered by a twin-tubro V10, there are no huge wings, garish ground effects or blinding clusters of lights to hint at the car's awesome ability. As Parkington understands, the satin-finish trim around the Avant's lusty grille and subtle extra lines quietly nod to the car's ability while still maintaining it's obvious class.

5. Cadillac CTS

Few sedans can compete with the supercars and GTs in the aesthetic department, and the few that rise to their level have historically been European. It's therefore a grand occasion that the Cadillac CTS, an American sedan, can compete with this esteemed company. It's as if all of those years of talking about "Cadillac Style" finally erupted forth into reality with the new CTS. It's a car both muscular and delicate, modern and timeless, yet luxurious and distinctly American. The fact that Yoshi can actually afford one has nothing to do with its beauty though clearly something to do with its allure. We can't wait for the Coupe and Sport Wagon versions to go on sale to show the world what the "Art & Science" design is all about.

4. Masererati GranTurismo

The Maserati GranTurismo lives up to its name as one of the grandest of tourers. And even if it had the motor from an old Datsun and a transmission from a new Suzuki it would still be one of the quickest looking cars on the market. Whether in normal or GranTurismo S trim, the Maserati leaves broken hearts in its wake. Drop dead gorgeous from any angle, the integrated exhaust tips and triangular taillights combine for one of the best looking rears in the business. We think Sandwich Pants would take it over Beyonce any day.

3. Alfa Brera

A consensus favorite among anyone with working optic nerves, the Alfa Romeo Brera redefines the term "hot hatch." The low greenhouse and high beltline combine for a stance that's uncharacteristic of a hatchback and the sloping shoulders are surprisingly exotic. But it's the curved hood, which angles towards the nose in a way that's almost F1-esque, that causes our hearts to skip beats like Ferris Bueller skips school.

2. Aston Martin DB9

A list of beautiful cars without an Aston Martin would be as incomplete as a list of beautiful women without Scarlett Johansson. But which Aston? The Vantage? The DBS? Though all Astons are powerful and gorgeous, the Aston Martin DB9 is the most classic example of what makes the classic British brand a flag-bearing standard of luxury and elegance. Stripped of the menacing enhancements of those other Astons, the DB9 is like one smooth and flowing movement. They say Michaelangelo had an eye for stone, It's as if the designers crafted it from one piece of unadulterated marble for Dr. Danger to worship.

1. Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

There's a reason why we devoted a day to the Alfa Romeo Competizione and it is embodied in the photo above. Not so much the creation of man, we assume, like the psalmists, it was God's will manifest through human hands. It outshines anything from Bugatti, Lamborghini or Ferrari while using a tenth of the lines of their simplest cars. With perfectly round taillights, Alfa's typical crest-shaped grille and ovular headlights it's hard to put into words what makes the car so special. We simply don't have words that are good enough. It's everything that's great about Italian cars and nothing that's bad about them. It's a dream come true and you can actually buy one.

Sadly, we're entering a time when tighter budgets and higher fuel costs are going to make people start hating their cars again. And they've gone and redesigned the Fit for 2009, making it a bit larger (4.2 inches longer), a tad heavier (2489 lb. with a manual vs. 2432 lb. for the old one), a dash more powerful (117 HP and 106 ft-lb of torque vs. 109 HP and 105 ft-lb) and a dollop less chunky in the midsection (less than an inch wider). So is the Fit still worthy of affection? Or is it starting to outgrow us as it grows up?

Because this car is certainly growing up. Inside, it's roomier, with head and legroom for robust full-sized people. The 60/40 split rear "Magic Seat" fits actual humans too, plus it now folds down flat to the floor with a single little lever and will let you carry, for example, a bicycle with the front wheel removed. Fold them up and you can carry houseplants or monster stereo speakers or any other lifestyle accessory. The nook-and-cranny factor has been expanded, with lots of little compartmentlets and even a small top-secret hidden stashbox under the rear seats where no one will ever find it. And it will hold the hell out of your cups, with ten receptacles provided for that purpose alone.

Outside, it looks much bigger as well, and not in a positive way. Those four inches don't sound like much, but this car looks like it could be the box the old Fit was shipped in. It's more bulbous, less of a bullpup and more of a breadvan. The front end starts out all right, with a decent grille and a large, aggressive headlight treatment, but then it just sort of, well, continues. Eventually, a rear end is achieved, apparently by default. Viewed from the front, its best angle, the effect is roughly comparable to looking at a box turtle that's been given an expensive pair of Oakley sunglasses and then polished to a high sheen. That's bad enough, but there's worse: From every other angle, it looks less like the hunkered-down old Fit and more like the box a Prius was shipped in.

Now, I'd rather drive the box a Prius was shipped in than a Prius itself, and luckily, when you're driving this car you're not looking at it. And it's really very good to drive indeed. There's just the one engine, the adequetastic 1.5 liter with kick-innable VTEC, but it's sufficient for its class. You'll want the Fit Sport with either the fun and obedient paddle-shifters or the five-speed manual, as the five-speed automatic is noteworthy for its extra gear but is, inevitably, merely decent. Its strut front/torsion-bar rear suspension may be nothing special, and the chassis may be designed more with crumpling than handling in mind, but it still goes down the road and through the turns very well, almost eagerly. On the fun roads you and your game little buddy can whip around with a abandon and build up quite a bit of speed before it starts to push, although by that time, you'll probably have noticed your bicycle and monster stereo speakers and houseplants flying about in the rear and calmed down anyway to just enjoy the view.


View enjoyment is very much a possibility, because the Fit's outward visibility is amazing, obstructed laterally by only the narrowest of pillars and interrupted overall only by the lack of an available sunroof and the continued spineless refusal of Honda, and all other cowardly automakers, to offer a glass-bottom option. The view in front is a bit spoiled by the business of the instruments, which feature abundant blue LEDs at important marks on the dials such as every ten MPH or every thousand RPM and so on. Further along the dash, there's also a USB-capable 160-watt stereo, which is nice, and an optional navigation system in the Fit Sport's Navi package, which is rather poorly integrated but functional and, sadly, also the only way to get stability control. But everyone gets an odometer that now doubles as a fuel economy meter which, happily, is almost always full of good news.

That good news is 28/35 miles per gallon for the automatic version and 27/33 for the manual and the Fit Sport. That's for all real-world purposes the same as the last model, even with a few more horsepower—Your pal doesn't want you spending lots of money. And the trusty Fit is now a ULEV-II vehicle, which means it's better at cleaning up after itself; in fact, Honda says they now use less nastiness such as PVCs and hexavalent chromium and demon bile and chloride and so on to build the Fit, so that when it finally stops running after about 300 years, the parts that aren't recycled can evidently, if I'm interpreting Honda's press kit correctly, be made into a delicious and healthy blueberry-wheatgrass smoothie.

So it's more capacious, just as economical, greenier, and still pretty fun to drive. No, it's certainly not pretty, and right now shopping for one can be downright ugly, with demand forcing poor unfortunate dealers to ask for large premiums above the MSRP, no doubt against their will. But since Honda aims to give people 85,000 Fits over the next year, pricing could very well fall back into line. That would pit it against the Yaris, a slightly more powerful but softer and more wallowy car; the Versa, a car for people for whom driving is something to get over with as soon as possible, unless that means driving quickly; and the Scion xD, a kit car built by Toyota marketers in their spare time as a clumsy way of bonding with their tweenaged children.

The Fit, though, is an actual automobile, aimed not just at people who want a first car, but people who want a good car that just happens to start at $14,550. If it turns out to be the kind of car you can be friends with, so much the better. These days, cars need all the friends they can get.

Click Here For Our Rendering Of The Audi R8 Spyder!

Aside from a missing top, recent spy photos show that the R8 Spyder seems to have lost its signature sideblades as well. Don’t worry kiddies, we're pretty sure that's just a clever sleight of hand by those crazy Germans to distract from the final blade design. Sources say the design will be encased by the sidecove intake shield. However there may be different versions depending on the engine — that's right, depending on whether a V10 is initially offered as an engine variant for the pretty supercar, a V10 may end up having a more prominent, open design to feed air into the more powerful engine. And don't even get us started on what a diesel offering will end up giving the R8 in terms of design changes.

In addition, the R8 Spyder will likely gain a new rear engine cover incorporating two large vents to release heat from the 420 HP / 317 lb-ft 4.2-liter FSI V8 or the new 5.2-liter FSI V10 loosely based on the LP 560-4’s engine (again, it's just a rumor — and we'd be shocked to see it happen). Rumor has it, the V10 will produce anywhere between 500 and 550 HP.

Other changes will include a pair of rollbars behind the seats and the fuel door relocation to the quarter panel. Most other changes will be under the sheetmetal for chassis strengthening.

Some say he has a tattoo of a Saleen S7 on his rear end. Others tell us he was born with a penchant for oil rather than his mum's milk. All we know is he's called the Auto Insider and he's always ready to provide the scoop from the other side of Eight Mile.

Halfway through a day's lapping, halfway around the Lutz Ring and full throttle at the top of third gear is bringing me and a red ZR1 into a 180-degree corner way too fast, while the blind crest just before it — taken at maximum power and maximum cornering — has us way off line too. In any other supercar, especially one as hairy as a Viper or as rear-engined as a 911, this would be a serious moment, probably resulting in one of my notorious off-track excursions. But today I can just haul on the brakes all the way through turn-in and up to the apex and then get back on the power — hard. The result: sweaty palms instead of trashed carbon fiber body work.

The first thing you need to do with the ZR1 is throw out any preconceived notions you have about it. Isn't it just a more extreme Z06 with 131 more horsepower or an answer to a question no one asked? No. It's a comprehensively re-engineered vehicle that shares little in feel with either the standard Corvette or the Z06, outperforming both on the track, obviously, but also, surprisingly, on the road. How? A remarkably civilized yet awesomely powerful engine; an easy-to-use gearbox; compliant-yet-capable suspension; and a chassis that simply overachieves at any task you give it.

While based on the standard car's LS3 V8, the ZR1's LS9 makes its power with the aid of a Roots-type supercharger whose intercooler cover is visible through the tacky Lexan hood window. With 638 HP and 604 lb-ft of torque, its speed should come as no surprise, but its character will. Equipped with a dual-mode exhaust, there's little hint of its performance at low speed, the RPMs dipping if you pull away on light throttle. Up to 2,500 RPM (about all you need on the road — it delivers 320 lb-ft at 1,000 RPM), it feels like something that belongs in a big German luxury car. It's torquey, quiet and, combined with the ZR1's 3,364 lb curb weight, it makes driving effortless.

It's when you begin to climb into higher RPMs at larger throttle openings that the LS9's performance reveals itself in its absurd volume. A second exhaust valve opens, taking the engine note from refined to apocalyptic. The all-consuming sound focuses your attention on nothing but the road in front of you. But it lacks any aural indication of its supercharger. For reasons that escape us, the Corvette engineers went through elaborate steps to eliminate the whine, even doubling the number of teeth on the lobe drive gears to move their sound beyond the human ear's range of perception. Tap into the loud zone and everything in front starts to come at you very fast. 300 HP arrives at just 3,000 RPM before peaking at 6,500, leaving 100 RPM before the redline. The close-ratio gearbox (unique to the ZR1) means shifts come fast, but the wide spread of power and torque means you can leave it in third for pretty much anything above 30 MPH.

Like the engine, that gearbox does little to hint at the ZR1's ultimate performance. A twin-disc clutch leads to easy pedal throw, while a precise gate makes finding gears simple. This isn't a fire-breathing monster, but instead a car anyone could drive competently — even for long distances (it's comfortable) or at high speeds (its limits are so high that you need to try very hard to find them).

In fact, the only thing detracting from the ZR1's grand touring credentials is the interior. The only options on the $103,300 car are an awful set of chrome wheels and the 3ZR upgraded interior package, which succeeds in moving the interior from cheap and nasty into luxurious bass boat territory with more embroidered ZR1 and Corvette logos than my fragile mind could comprehend. We have a hard time accepting the 'value' excuse; for this kind of money we'd no longer like to feel like a Jeff Foxworthy punchline. An automatic transmission is, thankfully, not an option.

The ZR1's road ability is boosted by the two-mode magnetic damping. Select "Touring" on the center-mounted ride-control knob, and, while it can't hide that the ZR1 wears 335/25-20s on the rear, it rides comfortably enough to make you forget you're driving something capable of lapping the Nurburgring in 7:26.4. The damping adjusts itself near-instantaneously to maintain grip on rough surfaces. You won't feel this happen, but you will notice how unflustered the ZR1 is no matter how crappy Michigan roads may be.

The real magic of the ZR1 isn't that it's capable of any of the above, though. It's that it will make you forget all of its intimidating performance figures and fancy technology the second you take a corner at speed. Despite all the headline numbers, this car isn't about power, it's about handling.

Built on the same aluminum-intensive chassis with fancy magnesium bits as the Z06, the ZR1 uses independent suspension all-round, but here it arrives with bespoke tuning capable of coping with the 1.05 lateral Gs the purpose-made Michelins make possible.

Conventional wisdom states that a front engine, rear-wheel drive car capable of these numbers should be incredibly difficult to drive, with a significant predisposition toward slamming into immovable objects, backward. In fact, before driving the car, Ray and I discussed whether or not the ZR1 was set to become the cheapest way to kill an inexperienced driver quickly, but that's simply not the case. It's so competent a car that it makes the 638 HP feel unremarkable. Two people went off-course the day I was at the track, but both did so because they got intimidated by the sheer speed at which they were traveling. Had they simply looked where they wanted to go, instead of off into the grass, the Corvette ZR1 would have made it around the corner — the same nasty off-camber, downhill one both times — much faster than they were actually traveling.

This is only my second track day since getting the cast off and I'm still not back to full health. And, I hate to admit it, but I'm a little more cautious than I used to be. The Lutz Ring is also an incredibly intimidating track. Jim Mero, the guy with the 'Ring record, described it as the best possible preparation for his attempt as it packs all the German track's challenges into a space not two miles long. That includes the lack of run-off — guardrails line the track's fastest corner and you need to get within a couple inches of them to be really fast. But two laps into my first session and I'm ringing the car out in second and third gear. No matter the speed or the amount of ill-advised braking, it turns in and holds a line without drama and accelerates out under full throttle without stepping wide. In fact, it rapidly becomes apparent that, without intentionally trying to do so, I'm incapable of making the ZR1 misbehave. Even topping out the suspension over the track's two jumps then slamming hard on the massive ceramic brakes just as the car regains traction fails to make it lose composure. Just like the two guys who went off, I'm unable to reprogram my brain enough to accept the ZR1's ludicrous speed. This is the first car I can say this about in a long, long time — the ZR1 is too fast for me.

That's not to say I can't enjoy it. This isn't a PlayStation game. The ZR1 is a rear-wheel drive car that needs significant driver input in order to make it around a track or down the road quickly. It's that involvement, not just ultimate speed, that is its reward. Even if it provides you with better tools to do so than anyone else, the Corvette ZR1 still challenges you to try and exploit its performance; it's the level of that challenge and the level of involvement required to meet it that makes the ZR1 truly special.

Photography: Alex Conley

Editor's Note of Thanks: Thank you Sun-Sentinel for not knowing what midnight means!

Sadly, we're entering a time when tighter budgets and higher fuel costs are going to make people start hating their cars again. And they've gone and redesigned the Fit for 2009, making it a bit larger (4.2 inches longer), a tad heavier (2489 lb. with a manual vs. 2432 lb. for the old one), a dash more powerful (117 HP and 106 ft-lb of torque vs. 109 HP and 105 ft-lb) and a dollop less chunky in the midsection (less than an inch wider). So is the Fit still worthy of affection? Or is it starting to outgrow us as it grows up? Happily, yes and no. Rest assured the 2009 Fit would never desert you, and be sure and read the full review of your new best buddy tomorrow afternoon — when the 2009 Corvette ZR1 doesn't get in the way. For now, have fun with the press release.

All-new 2009 Honda Fit Big on Style and Refinement, Small on Price and Fuel Consumption
Pricing starts at $14,550 with A/C, AM/FM CD player and power windows; EPA fuel economy(1) up to 35 mpg highway

TORRANCE, Calif., Aug 19, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ — The completely-redesigned 2009 Honda Fit is set to go on sale August 26 with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price(2) (MSRP) starting at $14,550, plus a destination and handling charge of $670, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The Fit Sport, equipped with additional premium features, is also set to debut with a starting MSRP(2) of $16,060, plus destination and handling.
The Fit is designed to lead the subcompact segment with a quality feel and a multi-functional interior. The Fit has become more refined for 2009 with a sportier demeanor through improved suspension, steering and body rigidity enhancements; an improved rear Magic Seat(R); and a high level of standard safety equipment, including the addition of the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure and front seat active head restraints. A new, more powerful 117-horsepower, 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine further improves the Fit's high-revving, fun-to-drive character.
"With the all-new Fit, Honda is offering premium features and advanced technology within a high-function, small vehicle package," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. "Customers who choose the Fit are choosing superior refinement and premium quality, along with value and economy."
Dimensionally compact on the outside with an overall length of 161.6 inches, the interior provides a surprisingly spacious passenger volume of 90.8 cubic feet and a rear cargo volume of 20.6 cubic feet. The seats offer multiple seating and cargo-carrying configurations — tall object mode, long object mode and utility mode — in addition to the standard five-passenger mode.
An improved rear Magic Seat provides one-motion dive-down functionality without having to remove the rear seat head restraints to folds flat into the floor, creating a rear cargo volume of 57.3 cubic feet. Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all models.
The engine produces 117 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 106 lb-ft. of torque at 4800 rpm. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard and a 5-speed automatic transmission is available. Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters allow for manual gear selection on the Fit Sport equipped with the available automatic transmission. The Fit equipped with the available automatic transmission achieves an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) city/highway fuel economy rating(1) of 28/35 miles per gallon. The Fit with a manual transmission and Fit Sport with either a manual or the available automatic transmission achieve an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating(1) of 27/33 miles per gallon.
The Fit comes with standard amenities such as air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS), auxiliary audio input jack, power windows, power mirrors and power door locks. The Fit Sport adds alloy wheels, an underbody aero kit, rear roofline spoiler, fog lights, security system with keyless remote entry and cruise control. The Fit Sport audio system provides six speakers, a five-mode equalizer and a USB Audio Interface(3).
For the first time, the Fit is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System(4) with Voice Recognition on the Fit Sport, featuring a 6.5-inch screen and more than 7 million points of interest. Models equipped with the navigation system also include Vehicle Stability Assist(TM) (VSA(R)), also known as electronic stability control.
The front MacPherson strut suspension and torsion beam rear suspension settings are tuned to provide a sporty, solid and dynamic driving experience. Upgraded by 1-inch on each model, larger 15- and 16-inch wheels (Fit and Fit Sport respectively) are shod with 175/65 R15 84S (Fit) and 185/55 R16 83H (Fit Sport) tires. The standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs in the front and 7.9-inch drums in the rear.

2009 Honda Fit Pricing

Fit Transmission MSRP(2) City/Hwy./Combined(1)

5-Speed Manual $14,550 27/33/29
5-Speed Automatic $15,350 28/35/31

Fit Sport Transmission MSRP(2) City/Hwy./Combined(1)

5-Speed Manual $16,060 27/33/29
5-Speed Automatic $16,910 27/33/30

Fit Sport with Transmission MSRP(2) City/Hwy./Combined(1)
Navigation

5-Speed Manual $17,910 27/33/29
5-Speed Automatic $18,760 27/33/30

Additional media information and high-resolution photography is available at http://www.hondanews.com.

(1) Based on 2009 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy
methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only.
Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary
depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

(2) MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $670.00 destination charge
and options. Dealer prices may vary.

(3) The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control
of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that
contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security
software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see
your dealer for details on compatibility.

(4) Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work
correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include but are not
limited to automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

SOURCE American Honda