Detroit 2011

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2012 Audi A6


There's no driving experience quite like piloting a smooth and luxurious midsize sedan. The Audi A6 has fit into that category for several years, and the 2012 model promises to be even better. A stiff, lightweight body made of aluminum and high-strength steel should deliver capable handling. We like the robust turbocharged 3.0-liter 300-horsepower V6 that carries over, and the new hybrid powertrain — featuring an electric motor and Audi's turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine — promises 245 responsive horses and a frugal 38 mpg.

2011 BMW 1-Series M Coupe


While every BMW is a pleasure to drive, the M versions are the ultimate performance expression of each model. We haven't seen a 1-Series M until now. The 2011 BMW 1-Series M improves on the already-engrossing 135i in several ways. It comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six engine that boosts output from 300 to 340 horsepower. It also features a wider track; the M3's suspension components improve handling; and wider fenders and aerodynamic tweaks make it look cooler. Give us the keys and several miles of twisty roads and we'll be happy.

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2011 BMW 650i Convertible


A BMW convertible is a thing of beauty, and BMW's redesigned 650i convertible looks even more inviting and more attractive than the last model. Under the hood, it swaps a 4.8-liter 360-horsepower V8 for a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that boosts output to 400 horses and cuts the zero-to-60 mph time to 4.9 seconds. Available active rear steering should help this nimble car rotate even better through corners.

2011 Buick Verano Turbo


The Verano shares its design with the Chevrolet Cruze, a car that has proved to be an excellent handler. Our only complaint about the Verano is the relative lack of power, which is why we are especially looking forward to piloting the turbocharged model due later. Its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine should make at least 220 horsepower. Combine that with the isolation that comes with Buick's quiet tuning and a high-quality interior, and the 2011 Buick Verano should be a fun and pleasant entry luxury car.

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2011 Chrysler 300


If Chrysler wants to be an entry luxury brand, this is the type of vehicle it needs to produce. Like its Dodge Charger sibling, the Chrysler 300 gets a substantial upgrade for 2011. The interior is rich and inviting, and the overall look is elegant. All models should deliver a pleasing balance of sport and luxury. The base 3.6-liter 292-horsepower V6 engine is a vast improvement over the outgoing V6s, and the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 turns up the power from 340 to 363 horses. Available all-wheel drive adds cold-weather security.

Ford Vertrek


The Ford Escape still sells well, but it just feels old to us. Ford is updating the Escape before sales start to lag. The 2012 model, which will be based on the Ford Vertrek Concept shown here in Detroit, should deliver a more carlike crossover experience. Based on the promising global C segment platform that hosts the upcoming Focus, it promises to handle better than the competition. Under the hood, a turbocharged 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine will provide decent power with exemplary fuel economy. Rather than looking old, the next Escape will be at the technological forefront of the compact SUV class.

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2012 Honda Civic Si Coupe


The Honda Civic Si has always been fun to drive. Sharp steering, communicative handling, engaging manual transmissions and modestly powered but rev-happy engines have made it one of the better cars to flog on the street without getting into too much trouble. The 2012 Civic Si coupe promises the same type of experience in what looks like a more substantial car. The basic shape of the car is the same, but this is a new, more aggressive interpretation of Honda's "one-motion" form. Specs aren't yet available, but the look is certainly better.

2012 Hyundai Veloster


Hyundai's unique Veloster combines elements of a coupe and a hatchback, delivers the fuel economy of a hybrid, and adds a sporty touch to the compact segment. Under the hood, a direct-injected 1.6-liter engine sends its power through a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox or a 6-speed manual transmission. Hyundai claims fuel economy as high as 40 mpg highway. The rear seat is more accessible than in most coupes thanks to a right-side rear door. Touted as lighter than a MINI Cooper, the Veloster should drive as sporty as it looks.

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2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class


Though not on the show floor, Mercedes gave journalists an offsite preview of the 2012 C-Class. The big news is the addition of the 4-cylinder C250 model. Powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter four, the C250 will make 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, which should be plenty of pep for most needs. Those who want more can opt for the C350, which boosts horsepower to 302 thanks to the addition of direct injection. We think both engines will improve the C-Class experience, and the C250's lower price should allow more customers to drive a Mercedes.

2012 Volkswagen Passat


The underappreciated Volkswagen Passat has been one of the sportiest and most luxurious midsize sedans for years. Unfortunately, not all that many buyers knew it. With its 2012 redesign, the Passat gets bigger and more affordable, making it appealing to more American customers. Power comes from a 2.5-liter 140-horsepower 5-cylinder engine; a 3.6-liter 280-horsepower V6; or a turbocharged 2.0-liter 140-horsepower 4-cylinder diesel that will deliver 43 mpg highway. We're looking forward to the V6 and the diesel, while hoping the car keeps its sporty character.

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Audi A6 Hybrid


The first car on our list of mean and "green" alternative-fuel vehicles isn't exactly a track scorcher, but it's way ahead of current hybrids in terms of performance — if for no other reason than it's an Audi, and Audis are true driver's cars. The front-wheel-drive A6 Hybrid uses a turbocharged 211-horsepower 4-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor that puts out an additional 45 horses and 157 lb-ft of torque. It will do zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 148 mph.

BMW ActiveHybrid 750i


The BMW ActiveHybrid 750i puts out as much horsepower as, and more torque than, a Porsche 911. Its twin-turbo V8 engine and electric motor work together to produce 455 horsepower and 513 lb-ft of torque. The huge luxury sedan can hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, which is faster than the 12-cylinder-powered BMW 760i. The fact that it gets 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway doesn't seem impressive until you consider that the conventional 750i gets 14/21.

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Извинявайте че са на английски ама превод нямат. Моге да ги преведа но ще е след около месец... да се оправя с изпитите първо и тогава...

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