Detroit 2009: Volvo S60 Concept introduces 4-cylinder EcoBoost

Volvo rolled out a new concept sedan here that previews the next generation of its mid-size S60 sedan. The swoopy sedan has almost coupe-like proportions with its flowing back-light and curves that a 240 fan would never recognize as a Volvo. Most important is what's under the hood. The 1.6L four cylinder is a preview of Ford's first small displacement EcoBoost engine. With direct injection and turbocharging, the 1.6L mill produces 180 hp and scores a combined 47 mpg (U.S.). Carbon dioxide emissions are a mere 119g/km. In addition to the GTDI engine, the S60 is equipped with automatic start/stop, a dual clutch 6-speed gearbox, electric power steering and a grille shutter. That last element closes off air-flow to radiator when not needed and reduces aerodynamic drag. The new engine is due to start production later in 2009 for European Fords and we'll probably see it here eventually.

Audi R8 V10 debuting in Detroit, cabrio coming in 2010

While other automakers are dropping out of the Detroit Auto Show left and right, Audi is heading to Motor City with guns blazing, beginning with the 2010 Audi R8 V10.

Car and Driver decided to put the rumors to rest that the updated super coupe is officially coming to Detroit, packing a 5.2-liter V10 putting out 520 hp and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. Aside from the obvious aural and performance differences, the V10-powered R8 will make use of a pair of larger dual exhaust tips rather than the V8 model's quad outlets. Expect new wheels, upgraded brakes and a few changes to the interior as well.

The oft-rumored Audi R8 Spyder will hit the European market in late 2009, with sales beginning in the U.S. sometime in 2011. According to C&D, the reason for the delayed Stateside launch is due to dealers that "have their hands full allocating coupes." Whatever that means. The R8's stylistic party pieces – it's side blades – will be shrunken down to accommodate a power-operated soft top, and the interior will carry over unchanged.

We've got more Audi goodness for you at 6 PM EST tonight, so check back in a few hours for a sneak peak of the four-ringer's plans for the Geneva Motor Show.

Gallery: Audi R8 V10 spied at quattro GmbH

Gallery: 2008 Audi R8

[Source: Car and Driver]

China's Brilliance set to display at Detroit show, vows 2009 U.S. market debut

While some already established automakers are pulling out of the 2009 Detroit auto show, others, like China's up-and-coming Brilliance, are making themselves right at home in the Motor City. According to a report by Automotive News, Brilliance will display four of its global offerings at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in January. If all goes as planned (not likely, considering its lengthy track record), the report says Brilliance will enter the U.S. market by as early as next year. The Chinese automaker is looking to ship its BS6 midsize sedan, BS4 compact car, BC3 sport coupe, and FRV hatchback to Detroit where it will try to gain some much needed excitement despite a highly publicized shaky European introduction. Last month, we reported on Brilliance's reselling of a BS4 sedan in Europe that was revised by Porsche after receiving horrible crash safety results earlier in the year. Although none of its cars pass American safety and emissions standards in their current form, Brilliance officials insist their models will meet regulations by December of this year with extensive help from Porsche AG and FEV Inc. In an interview with Automotive News this past spring, Brilliance VP He Guochua stated the automaker has already sent BS6 and BS4 sedans for testing in the U.S. where they achieved "good" safety results and, as expected, problematic emissions outputs. Brilliance currently employs a variety of expertises in the manufacturing and improvement of its cars. BMW, its Chinese partner, helps out with the company's production process, Porsche has been commissioned for its engineering, and Mitsubishi provides support to the powertrain departments. It will be surprising if, even with all the outside assistance, Brilliance's cars will be up to standard and ready in time for its proposed 2009 U.S. introduction. Source: Automotive News (Subscription required)