all New 2011 Ducati 848 Evo: Perfomance test

soul-stirring sound and seductive, liquid-red styling inherent to a long bloodline of championship-winning Ducati sportbikes. Yesterday's triumph, however, is just that, and the bigger the trophy, the more dust it tends to attract. Ongoing product evolution is what maintains a competitive edge, and the Bologna boys aim to kill in the hotly contested middleweight supersport category with the new 848 EVO recently rolled out as an early-release 2011 model.

2011 Ducati 848 Evo Action

Torque builds quickly off idle before easing into a soft spot around 5000 rpm. While the mid-rpm lull is perceptible even at slight throttle settings, fueling remains good, allowing the bike to cruise dead-steady in the lull zone at freeway speeds. The sweet spot for smooth running spans from 4000 to 5000 rpm, yielding an indicated 70 to 87 mph in top gear with only modest engine vibration seeping through the handgrips. Strong power pulses quake the footpegs and frame while chugging along at basement revs or spinning the engine in its upper rpm range. There is little driveline lash, even when casually lugging along at 3500 rpm in a tall gear.2011 Ducati 848 Evo

all New 2011 Ducati 848 Evo: Perfomance test

soul-stirring sound and seductive, liquid-red styling inherent to a long bloodline of championship-winning Ducati sportbikes. Yesterday's triumph, however, is just that, and the bigger the trophy, the more dust it tends to attract. Ongoing product evolution is what maintains a competitive edge, and the Bologna boys aim to kill in the hotly contested middleweight supersport category with the new 848 EVO recently rolled out as an early-release 2011 model.

2011 Ducati 848 Evo Action

Torque builds quickly off idle before easing into a soft spot around 5000 rpm. While the mid-rpm lull is perceptible even at slight throttle settings, fueling remains good, allowing the bike to cruise dead-steady in the lull zone at freeway speeds. The sweet spot for smooth running spans from 4000 to 5000 rpm, yielding an indicated 70 to 87 mph in top gear with only modest engine vibration seeping through the handgrips. Strong power pulses quake the footpegs and frame while chugging along at basement revs or spinning the engine in its upper rpm range. There is little driveline lash, even when casually lugging along at 3500 rpm in a tall gear.2011 Ducati 848 Evo

2010-2011 new Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP stance.

2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP Front Angle View

Remember the questions posed at the very beginning of our review? Their answers are a little bit of yes and a little bit of no. The Hyper is completely capable of fulfilling its role as a maniacal supersize supermoto, there's no doubt about that. But it can also function perfectly well as a method of getting you from point A to point B with reasonable comfort and refinement. Well, maybe not refinement, especially not with that Termognini exhaust -- it's not exactly good etiquette to roll into work setting off car alarms... but at least comfort. So, in closing, what we have here is a $14,995 motorcycle with multiple personality disorder. And we mean that in the best way possible.

2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP Motorcycle

2010-2011 new Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP stance.

2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP Front Angle View

Remember the questions posed at the very beginning of our review? Their answers are a little bit of yes and a little bit of no. The Hyper is completely capable of fulfilling its role as a maniacal supersize supermoto, there's no doubt about that. But it can also function perfectly well as a method of getting you from point A to point B with reasonable comfort and refinement. Well, maybe not refinement, especially not with that Termognini exhaust -- it's not exactly good etiquette to roll into work setting off car alarms... but at least comfort. So, in closing, what we have here is a $14,995 motorcycle with multiple personality disorder. And we mean that in the best way possible.

2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP Motorcycle

Vehicle Highlights: first plug-in for 2011 The Chevrolet Volt

One aspect which sets the Volt apart from any other car on the market is its long driving range for an electric vehicle, something usually not found in other electric vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf. Since the Volt operates uses an electric motor for the first 40 miles or so, consumers who have a short commute could probably skip fueling up for long periods of time. The car industry awarded the Volt the honor of being named 2011 North American Car of the Year.

Let's take a closer look at the powertrain that powers this innovative vehicle. The car is powered initially by an electric power train which switches over to traditional gasoline mode after around forty miles. The electric powertrain provides 149 hp and 273 lb feet of torque while the traditional engine is a 1.4 Liter four cylinder. Acceleration is smooth and instantaneous while the Volt provides a driver oriented and athletic drive. Charging the car is quite simple; you just plug it into a regular 120 volt outlet. The Volt goes from 0-60 mph on just 9.2 seconds which is pretty fast when compared to speeds of the average hybrid. A home charging station is highly recommended.

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt makes its debut as General Motors' first plug-in gas/electric vehicle. It is expected to see limited production in calendar 2010, with availability only in California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington, DC. Nationwide sales are slated for late-calendar 2011. GM calls this 4-passenger, 4-door hatchback an "extended-range electric vehicle," because it has, in effect, two different drivetrains: an all-electric one (battery and motors) that drive the car for the first 40 or so miles after a full plug-in recharge, and a gas-powered hybrid system (with gas engine and fuel tank) that automatically takes over after that to give about another 300 miles of range.
Touch-control switch system on the center console
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color LCD reconfigurable Driver Information Center display. The display shows electric-only range, fuel economy, , extended-range, trip information, tire pressure information and other key vehicle messages.
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color, center stack-mounted touch screen display that serves as the interface for infotainment and cabin climate controls. An Efficiency (Leaf) switch accesses energy usage, power flow and charging screens - all easy to use and understand.
Charge modes are customizable according to need and electricity rates for efficient programming and lower costs.
A key fob that allows drivers to remotely start the vehicle and precondition the cabin based on outside temperatures
An exclusive mobile app, powered by OnStar MyLink, that enables owners to engage with the Volt functions using a smart phone.

Chevrolet Volt warranties bring value and peace of mind

Volt owners receive outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranty coverage. In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the Chevy Volt's 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, Chevrolet will provide:
Three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
Five-year/100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
Five-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
Six-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage.

Vehicle Highlights: first plug-in for 2011 The Chevrolet Volt

One aspect which sets the Volt apart from any other car on the market is its long driving range for an electric vehicle, something usually not found in other electric vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf. Since the Volt operates uses an electric motor for the first 40 miles or so, consumers who have a short commute could probably skip fueling up for long periods of time. The car industry awarded the Volt the honor of being named 2011 North American Car of the Year.

Let's take a closer look at the powertrain that powers this innovative vehicle. The car is powered initially by an electric power train which switches over to traditional gasoline mode after around forty miles. The electric powertrain provides 149 hp and 273 lb feet of torque while the traditional engine is a 1.4 Liter four cylinder. Acceleration is smooth and instantaneous while the Volt provides a driver oriented and athletic drive. Charging the car is quite simple; you just plug it into a regular 120 volt outlet. The Volt goes from 0-60 mph on just 9.2 seconds which is pretty fast when compared to speeds of the average hybrid. A home charging station is highly recommended.

The 2011 Chevrolet Volt makes its debut as General Motors' first plug-in gas/electric vehicle. It is expected to see limited production in calendar 2010, with availability only in California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington, DC. Nationwide sales are slated for late-calendar 2011. GM calls this 4-passenger, 4-door hatchback an "extended-range electric vehicle," because it has, in effect, two different drivetrains: an all-electric one (battery and motors) that drive the car for the first 40 or so miles after a full plug-in recharge, and a gas-powered hybrid system (with gas engine and fuel tank) that automatically takes over after that to give about another 300 miles of range.
Touch-control switch system on the center console
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color LCD reconfigurable Driver Information Center display. The display shows electric-only range, fuel economy, , extended-range, trip information, tire pressure information and other key vehicle messages.
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color, center stack-mounted touch screen display that serves as the interface for infotainment and cabin climate controls. An Efficiency (Leaf) switch accesses energy usage, power flow and charging screens - all easy to use and understand.
Charge modes are customizable according to need and electricity rates for efficient programming and lower costs.
A key fob that allows drivers to remotely start the vehicle and precondition the cabin based on outside temperatures
An exclusive mobile app, powered by OnStar MyLink, that enables owners to engage with the Volt functions using a smart phone.

Chevrolet Volt warranties bring value and peace of mind

Volt owners receive outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranty coverage. In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the Chevy Volt's 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, Chevrolet will provide:
Three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
Five-year/100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
Five-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
Six-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage.

2011-2012 The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus has a retail price of $75,000, and will be ready for delivery in the spring of 2011. Reservations for one of these limited-edition cars will be accepted beginning at noon, EDT, on October 19, 2010.

All Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus will be equipped with a 6.2-liter, V-8 engine, When paired with six-speed manual transmission, the engine delivers 426 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque; with the six-speed automatic, the engine delivers 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque.

The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus also has exclusive, 21-inch, polished aluminum wheels, wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero ultra-high performance tires. Other features include Brembo disc brakes, LED halo-ring headlamps, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking assist, and a 245-watt, Boston Acoustics sound system.

Before any official announcement, reports began running during April 1965 within the automotive press that Chevrolet was preparing a competitor to the Ford Mustang, code-named Panther. On June 21, 1966, around 200 automotive journalists received a telegram from General Motors stating, "...Please save noon of June 28 for important SEPAW meeting. Hope you can be on hand to help scratch a cat. Details will follow...(signed) John L. Cutter – Chevrolet Public Relations – SEPAW Secretary." The following day, the same journalists received another General Motors telegram stating, "Society for the Eradication of Panthers from the Automotive World will hold first and last meeting on June 28...(signed) John L. Cutter – Chevrolet Public Relations SEPAW Secretary." These telegrams puzzled the automotive journalists.

2011 the Yamaha FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal

When Yamaha released the FZ6R to the public earlier this year I was quick to review it. I hastily found a brand new one, barely a week out of its crate, and went to work. Over the course of half a day I flogged the bike through corners, around treacherous terrain (bumpy roads, gravel, etc.), up and down hills, through the mountains, and then back into good old city riding. It as a memorable half day, as the Yamaha FZ6R would become one of my all time favorite casual motorcycles.

What is a "Casual" Motorcycle?

Unlike the Yamaha R6, which is a super-sport motorcycle, the Yamaha FZ6R has certain conveniences that make it appealing for new and experienced riders alike. It has a more upright riding position, with less lean to the handle bars. This makes it more comfortable to sit on and ride, and after nearly half a day of abuse and hard riding my back still wasn't sore. On the R6 my back would have been killing me within an hour.

Not only that, but it doesn't pack a 160 horsepower engine. In fact, though Yamaha has been very hush-hush about just how much power it does make, you will find that the FZ6R is rather slow in comparison to any 600cc+ super-sport. Then again, that's like saying that the Chevrolet Corvette is slower than the Ferrari F430. At no point should you think that the Yamaha FZ6R is a slow machine, as it will still complete a quarter mile in around 12 seconds, and it will still outrun just about everything else on the street.

2011 Yamaha FZ6R Official Photos

Looks and Performance

One look at the Yamaha FZ6R is enough to make someone fall in love. Distinct styling, combined with aggressive fairing and wide tires (for the size of motorcycle) give the FZ6R a unique look. Without a doubt, the FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal. Of course, all the aggressive fairing in the world won't mean a thing if the motorcycle handles like a Vespa.

Starting up the motorcycle reveals the silky-smooth idle of the fuel injected four cylinder former R6 engine, and once you rev it (and you will want to) you will be rewarded with an angelic exhaust tone. True, this is not a pocket rocket. Also true is the fact that the FZ6R isn't really any faster than any of its primary competition (Kawasaki Ninja 650R, Suzuki SV650S). However, the amount of personal satisfaction that owners of this motorcycle are sure to enjoy will easily outweigh any of those minor shortcomings.

And believe me when I say that they are indeed minor. Once you have this bike moving you will be experiencing a riding situation that is far and beyond what most "entry level" motorcycles offer. There is no clunky carbureted engine, no lacklustre acceleration, and no disapproving looks from other motorcycle riders. There is speed when you need it, there is the ride that you want (stiff, but not too stiff), and the aesthetics that cause other people to constantly ask you what you're riding.

Ride this bike hard and it will reward you with sub-12 second acceleration times (your $8,000 motorcycle will keep up with $180,000 Ferrari's), enthusiastic turn-in, and the ability to stop your newfound lover on a dime.

So How Good Is It?

This may very well be one of the best entry level middleweight sport bikes ever conceived, and in my humble opinion this motorcycle is worthy of respect from any rider, regardless of their experience level. Get on one, ride it, and see for yourself- you'll be glad you did.

2011 the Yamaha FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal

When Yamaha released the FZ6R to the public earlier this year I was quick to review it. I hastily found a brand new one, barely a week out of its crate, and went to work. Over the course of half a day I flogged the bike through corners, around treacherous terrain (bumpy roads, gravel, etc.), up and down hills, through the mountains, and then back into good old city riding. It as a memorable half day, as the Yamaha FZ6R would become one of my all time favorite casual motorcycles.

What is a "Casual" Motorcycle?

Unlike the Yamaha R6, which is a super-sport motorcycle, the Yamaha FZ6R has certain conveniences that make it appealing for new and experienced riders alike. It has a more upright riding position, with less lean to the handle bars. This makes it more comfortable to sit on and ride, and after nearly half a day of abuse and hard riding my back still wasn't sore. On the R6 my back would have been killing me within an hour.

Not only that, but it doesn't pack a 160 horsepower engine. In fact, though Yamaha has been very hush-hush about just how much power it does make, you will find that the FZ6R is rather slow in comparison to any 600cc+ super-sport. Then again, that's like saying that the Chevrolet Corvette is slower than the Ferrari F430. At no point should you think that the Yamaha FZ6R is a slow machine, as it will still complete a quarter mile in around 12 seconds, and it will still outrun just about everything else on the street.

2011 Yamaha FZ6R Official Photos

Looks and Performance

One look at the Yamaha FZ6R is enough to make someone fall in love. Distinct styling, combined with aggressive fairing and wide tires (for the size of motorcycle) give the FZ6R a unique look. Without a doubt, the FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal. Of course, all the aggressive fairing in the world won't mean a thing if the motorcycle handles like a Vespa.

Starting up the motorcycle reveals the silky-smooth idle of the fuel injected four cylinder former R6 engine, and once you rev it (and you will want to) you will be rewarded with an angelic exhaust tone. True, this is not a pocket rocket. Also true is the fact that the FZ6R isn't really any faster than any of its primary competition (Kawasaki Ninja 650R, Suzuki SV650S). However, the amount of personal satisfaction that owners of this motorcycle are sure to enjoy will easily outweigh any of those minor shortcomings.

And believe me when I say that they are indeed minor. Once you have this bike moving you will be experiencing a riding situation that is far and beyond what most "entry level" motorcycles offer. There is no clunky carbureted engine, no lacklustre acceleration, and no disapproving looks from other motorcycle riders. There is speed when you need it, there is the ride that you want (stiff, but not too stiff), and the aesthetics that cause other people to constantly ask you what you're riding.

Ride this bike hard and it will reward you with sub-12 second acceleration times (your $8,000 motorcycle will keep up with $180,000 Ferrari's), enthusiastic turn-in, and the ability to stop your newfound lover on a dime.

So How Good Is It?

This may very well be one of the best entry level middleweight sport bikes ever conceived, and in my humble opinion this motorcycle is worthy of respect from any rider, regardless of their experience level. Get on one, ride it, and see for yourself- you'll be glad you did.

Spec Streetfighter: 2011 The Kawasaki Z750R

Europe is the birthplace of the original streetfighter motorcycles, stripped-down sportbikes that engendered an entirely new class of production bikes termed "street-nakeds" or "sport standards," among other names. Europeans still love sporty bikes that come from the factory sans fairings, and in the last couple of years, Kawasaki has really hit the market sweet-spot with their Z750.

After the global financial crisis, however, sales began to taper off. Fortunately, Kawasaki has responded aggressively, introducing the new 2011 Kawasaki Z750R. New styling is the most marked departure from the bike's predecessor. There is an all-new bikini fairing up front, as well as new instrumentation in the gauge cluster. There is also a new muffler, or you can opt for an Akrapovic system for an additional cost. Other options include a spoiler and faux carbon fiber design pieces.

2011 Kawasaki Z750R Action View

A hit all over europe and across the uk, the z750 will be joined in the kawasaki street-fighter stable for 2011 by the new z750r - set to get its uk public debut at the carole nash. Kawasaki unveils eagerly anticipated z750r looks awesome but at 500+ lbs , no thanks you tube you tube. 2011 kawasaki z750r official video - kawasaki z1000 forum kawasaki z750s in excellant condition very low mileage only 3981 tax till end of month mot april 2011 only needs new rear tyre /this was my wifes bike an.

Spec Streetfighter: 2011 The Kawasaki Z750R

Europe is the birthplace of the original streetfighter motorcycles, stripped-down sportbikes that engendered an entirely new class of production bikes termed "street-nakeds" or "sport standards," among other names. Europeans still love sporty bikes that come from the factory sans fairings, and in the last couple of years, Kawasaki has really hit the market sweet-spot with their Z750.

After the global financial crisis, however, sales began to taper off. Fortunately, Kawasaki has responded aggressively, introducing the new 2011 Kawasaki Z750R. New styling is the most marked departure from the bike's predecessor. There is an all-new bikini fairing up front, as well as new instrumentation in the gauge cluster. There is also a new muffler, or you can opt for an Akrapovic system for an additional cost. Other options include a spoiler and faux carbon fiber design pieces.

2011 Kawasaki Z750R Action View

A hit all over europe and across the uk, the z750 will be joined in the kawasaki street-fighter stable for 2011 by the new z750r - set to get its uk public debut at the carole nash. Kawasaki unveils eagerly anticipated z750r looks awesome but at 500+ lbs , no thanks you tube you tube. 2011 kawasaki z750r official video - kawasaki z1000 forum kawasaki z750s in excellant condition very low mileage only 3981 tax till end of month mot april 2011 only needs new rear tyre /this was my wifes bike an.

The Chevrolet Camaro SSX Track Car

The Chevrolet Camaro SSX Track Car has a purposeful aesthetic, with exterior appointments and suspension modifications aimed at road course performance. They include carbon fiber aero parts - front splitter and adjustable rear wing - lightweight carbon fiber body panels, revised lower grille and unique brake cooling ducts. The carbon body panels significantly lower the Camaro's weight, as does the elimination of much of the production car's sound-deadening material, carpeting and rear seat.

Low-gloss Icy White Metallic exterior paint is contrasted with the carbon aero parts, door graphics/racing number and red details; and this competition-ready Camaro rolls on dedicated track wheels and tires. This concept was constructed with input from Pratt and Miller, Chevrolet partner in Corvette Racing, and Riley Technologies using parts proven in the Grand Am racing series.

Interior
Carpeting, sound deadener and rear seat deleted
Ace suede-covered racing steering wheel and shifter
SCCA-approved roll cage and window net
Racing driver's seat with five-point harness
Racing pedals
Fire suppression system
Fuel cell
Video camera system mounted on the roll cage

Performance
LS3 6.2L V-8 enhanced with Chevrolet Performance Parts' camshaft, cylinder heads and dry-sump oiling system
Production six-speed manual transmission with Corvette ZR1 twin-disc clutch
Low-restriction air induction and exhaust systems
Four-wheel disc racing brake system with six-piston front/four-piston rear calipers and drilled and slotted rotors
Modified production suspension with Pfadt licensed components
20-inch racing wheels and tires
Camaro SSX

The Chevrolet Camaro SSX Track Car

The Chevrolet Camaro SSX Track Car has a purposeful aesthetic, with exterior appointments and suspension modifications aimed at road course performance. They include carbon fiber aero parts - front splitter and adjustable rear wing - lightweight carbon fiber body panels, revised lower grille and unique brake cooling ducts. The carbon body panels significantly lower the Camaro's weight, as does the elimination of much of the production car's sound-deadening material, carpeting and rear seat.

Low-gloss Icy White Metallic exterior paint is contrasted with the carbon aero parts, door graphics/racing number and red details; and this competition-ready Camaro rolls on dedicated track wheels and tires. This concept was constructed with input from Pratt and Miller, Chevrolet partner in Corvette Racing, and Riley Technologies using parts proven in the Grand Am racing series.

Interior
Carpeting, sound deadener and rear seat deleted
Ace suede-covered racing steering wheel and shifter
SCCA-approved roll cage and window net
Racing driver's seat with five-point harness
Racing pedals
Fire suppression system
Fuel cell
Video camera system mounted on the roll cage

Performance
LS3 6.2L V-8 enhanced with Chevrolet Performance Parts' camshaft, cylinder heads and dry-sump oiling system
Production six-speed manual transmission with Corvette ZR1 twin-disc clutch
Low-restriction air induction and exhaust systems
Four-wheel disc racing brake system with six-piston front/four-piston rear calipers and drilled and slotted rotors
Modified production suspension with Pfadt licensed components
20-inch racing wheels and tires
Camaro SSX

Ford Mustang GT 350 H." The 1966 Shelby Mustang ... How to Find Ford Mustang

Since the Ford Mustang was introduced in 1964, millions of people have lusted after one. Over the past 45 years, more than nine million have purchased new Mustangs and countless millions more have bought used Mustangs. The 2009 Ford Mustang GT has continued the tradition.


In 1966 the Hertz rent a car company agreed to purchase 1000 Shelby GT 350 for their rental fleet. It ended up that 996 cars were finally deliver to Hertz with Three being wrecked in transit and one being returned before it arrived for an unknown mechanical defect. Most of the Hertz's car were made in Black with a gold and most had an automatic transmission. The exceptions to that was the first 100 cars sold to Hertz were 4 speeds. It quickly became apparent to them that the 4 speed cars may have not been a good idea. The performance of the car combined with the driving habits of the rental customer added up to many clutch replacements. Some other colors also showed up in the mix, white, blue and red. All the cars had the gold stripe on the side and most had the racing stripes over the top.

Ford Mustang GT 350 H." The 1966 Shelby Mustang ... How to Find Ford Mustang

Since the Ford Mustang was introduced in 1964, millions of people have lusted after one. Over the past 45 years, more than nine million have purchased new Mustangs and countless millions more have bought used Mustangs. The 2009 Ford Mustang GT has continued the tradition.


In 1966 the Hertz rent a car company agreed to purchase 1000 Shelby GT 350 for their rental fleet. It ended up that 996 cars were finally deliver to Hertz with Three being wrecked in transit and one being returned before it arrived for an unknown mechanical defect. Most of the Hertz's car were made in Black with a gold and most had an automatic transmission. The exceptions to that was the first 100 cars sold to Hertz were 4 speeds. It quickly became apparent to them that the 4 speed cars may have not been a good idea. The performance of the car combined with the driving habits of the rental customer added up to many clutch replacements. Some other colors also showed up in the mix, white, blue and red. All the cars had the gold stripe on the side and most had the racing stripes over the top.

2011 The Chevrolet Sonic sedan and five-door models

Once the next generation Impala hits the market, it will go up against the next generation Ford Taurus and a host of other competitors. Still, if GM plays its market planning right, the Impala may have a shot at winning back customers who long since fled the brand for more modern sedans or opted for other Chevy models.

From every angle, Chevrolet Sonic sedan and five-door models convey strength, stability and refinement. A wide, planted stance, with wheels-at-the-corners proportions, conveys performance. Progressive, raked body lines suggest movement even when the car is stationary.

Aggressive cues, including fender flares and motorcycle-inspired round headlamps, are blended with global design cues - a dual-element grille and round taillamps - for a design instantly recognizable as Chevrolet. The leading edge of the hood forms a character line above the headlamps, which flows in a sleek side profile characterized by uninterrupted body side lines, a high beltline and low roofline. The side mirrors carry the same shape as the car and seemingly disappear into the profile.

The sedan and five-door models are distinctively different. The five-door carries a tight, two-box shape with aggressive, diving feature lines, while the sedan's "notchback" profile has a more upscale and mature presence. At first glance, the five-door model looks like a three-door hatch because the rear door handles are discreetly located in the "C"-pillar area. The rear of the five-door continues with unconventional details, including exposed, motorcycle-inspired rear taillamps.

2011 The Chevrolet Sonic sedan and five-door models

Once the next generation Impala hits the market, it will go up against the next generation Ford Taurus and a host of other competitors. Still, if GM plays its market planning right, the Impala may have a shot at winning back customers who long since fled the brand for more modern sedans or opted for other Chevy models.

From every angle, Chevrolet Sonic sedan and five-door models convey strength, stability and refinement. A wide, planted stance, with wheels-at-the-corners proportions, conveys performance. Progressive, raked body lines suggest movement even when the car is stationary.

Aggressive cues, including fender flares and motorcycle-inspired round headlamps, are blended with global design cues - a dual-element grille and round taillamps - for a design instantly recognizable as Chevrolet. The leading edge of the hood forms a character line above the headlamps, which flows in a sleek side profile characterized by uninterrupted body side lines, a high beltline and low roofline. The side mirrors carry the same shape as the car and seemingly disappear into the profile.

The sedan and five-door models are distinctively different. The five-door carries a tight, two-box shape with aggressive, diving feature lines, while the sedan's "notchback" profile has a more upscale and mature presence. At first glance, the five-door model looks like a three-door hatch because the rear door handles are discreetly located in the "C"-pillar area. The rear of the five-door continues with unconventional details, including exposed, motorcycle-inspired rear taillamps.