One LoveSpied here is the rear-drive 2008 BMW 1 Series coupe which is about the size of a VW Rabbit and will probably be powered (in America) by BMW's magnesium-alloy block, 3.0-liter, in-line six (the rest of the world will be able to buy it with four-cylinder engines, but the US will be six-only). The idea is to recapture those entry-level customers BMW has shed as it moved relentlessly upmarket. There should also be a convertible version eventually-perfect for sorority girls at the University of Southern California.
With an engine rated at about 230bhp, the 130i coupe ought to be quick even in its most basic form. And it really ought to handle like a BMW. But the best rumor is that the 335i's twin-turbo engine may make it into a 300bhp M version. If the 1M happens, expect it to get here about a year after the regular 1 Series coupe, which is slated for early 2008.
All-new xB/xD interior.
Scion of the TimesScion has finally decided to retire the xA subcompact and xB lunchbox. The 2008 xB blends elements of the first generation with more muscular styling as well as a wider track, longer wheelbase and overall length, plus a lower ride height. The car will be powered by the same 158bhp 2.4-liter VVT-I engine as the tC. and it gets disc brakes all round.
Looking more like the xB, the all-new xD replaces the xA, and is now the entry-level model. With a sharper back end and a more aggressive front, the xD packs more interior space-and more power, thanks to a new 128bhp, 1.8-liter engine. Both models are available from late summer, with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions-although the xB has the option of sequential shifting on its auto.
There's a choice of base or trance club audio systems. Both the 160-watt standard or premium Pioneer audio system come with iPod connections and rear head unit outputs for additional amps. Though no word yet on the color-changing mood lights we loved so much in the xB.
The aftermarket is already gearing up, with rumors that Scion masters Five Axis Models will be producing aerodynamic and interior parts by the time they drop at dealerships. Pictured above (in gold) is a Five Axis-tuned second-gen xB with revised bodywork and Volk Racing wheels.
In addition to the new models is the slightly (very slightly) revised Scion tC for 2008. That means new headlights, new taillights, revised bumper covers, some tweaked interior bits and iPod connectivity. Otherwise, it's the tC we've all grown to sorta/kinda like. The 2.4-liter VVT-I four will remain the sole powerplant and it will continue to be backed by either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transaxle.
New Mazda2 Debut!Here is the next Mazda2: direct competitor for cars like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa. It was just released at the Geneva auto show and is due in Europe later this year, replacing the current Mazda2. The question is, will this car be coming to America? Though Mazda has described the new 2 as having "a dynamic design to attract customers worldwide", it has yet to say whether it will make it to these shores. But the Fit, Yaris and Versa are all selling well, so why not? More details on this dinky, five-passenger, front-driver (expect the engine to be in the 1.5-liter range) as we get them.