Building on the success of the Mini Cooper, Mini is one step closer to releasing a new stretched wheelbase model. The Mini Traveler concept, shown here, should soon make its way into production as a 2008 model. Mini has not released production information, but this is the fourth showing of the concept, so the final production model should not be too far off base.

The next generation launch of the powerful BMW 3-series M-version will have the M3 offered as a coupe, convertible, and sedan. Breaking new ground, BMW will offer the M3 with a V8; a 4.0 liter (415hp) powerplant. Ripping the rubber with this new engine is the seven speed SMG transmission or an optional traditional six speed manual transmission.

Saab will soon be positioned to join the ranks of manufacturers producing hybrid passenger vehicles. General Motors will also soon have a Europe-designed gasoline-electric hybrid engine available for both Saab and Opel brands.

"A car like this must be judged by emotions, not only by logic or reason. Aston Martin needs to be art." proclaimed Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin CEO, when the DB9 was driven and tested almost two years ago. None have stepped forward to argue his claim, rather, more have stepped forward to declare its truth and endorse the true work of art produced by Aston Martin.

Fresh from the camera lens of a fanatic come these spy shots of the new Mercedes MLK sport utility vehicle. It is a newly formulated compact 4x4 concept, which shares characteristics of the forthcoming, renovated C-class. Targeted competition in sight is the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3. Rumors point to the MLK coming about in 2008, so keep an eye out!

Aston Martin's four-door sports coupe, the Rapide, is set to go into production by summer '07. The Rapide, originally unveiled as a concept vehicle at the 2006 Detroit Auto Show, will have a two to three year head start on its only competitor, the Porsche Panamera. Porsche's 4-door sports coupe is not expected to hit dealer lots before the 2009 or 2010 model year. Aston Martin expects to produce between 3,000 & 3,500 Rapides a year; Porsche plans to move about 20,000 Panameras per model year.

The Swedes have upped the ante with the latest touches to their flagship sedan. Class competitors such as the Saab 9-5, Mercedes E class, BMW 5 series and Audi A6 have all seen revisions to further their appeal in the luxury segment; now Volvo will make waves as well.

For the first time in 20 years, Volvo is making motion to market a small-sized vehicle for sale in the United States. The Swedish company has the strong desire to release the C30, but the exception of key details has left it in R&D limbo: the power plant, the equipment, and pricing.

Jaguar has been seen testing their latest prototype, the 2008 XKR. The spy shots were captured during some cold weather testing. This convertible is lightly camouflaged indicating there may only be minor changes when the production model is revealed.