Subaru Forester S-Edition - A Sporty new model

The Sydney Motor Show doesn't grab the full attention of the global media like Paris or Geneva, though this latest bit of news from Subaru certainly piques our interest. We had heard rumblings of a more potent Subaru crossover before, and now this, the Forester S-Edition concept, previews what the automaker says is "an exciting development in our Forester range" set to debut early next year.

Subaru has boosted the Forester XT's turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four up to 259 horsepower and 256 pound-feet of torque, gains of 32 and 20, respectively over the normal Australian model. That power runs through a five-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters and a new variable torque distributing all-wheel-drive system keeps things in check on the road. Other enhancements include a revised sport suspension, 17-inch STI wheels, Alcantara seat trim and S-Edition badging throughout.


Source: Subaru

2011 Volkswagen Passat unveiled

Volkswagen is slowly in the process of refreshing its entire product portfolio, and right on the heels of the recently introduced 2011 Jetta comes the seventh-generation Passat. The automaker's new corporate design language is in full force here, and observations of the new Passat looking like a big Jetta will not be disagreed with.

A full range of gasoline and diesel engines will be available when the Passat launches later this year. In North America, it's safe to assume that we'll receive the 207-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as well as the 296-horsepower, 3.6-liter V6, but we won't rule out the possibility of Volkswagen offering its well-liked 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine, as well. All engines can be mated to either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic gearbox, and like previous Passats, 4Motion all-wheel drive should be available on top-end models.

The Passat will also be available with Volkswagen's XDS electronic differential, which first debuted on the GTI hatch. This system helps reduce understeer and improve overall traction in slippery conditions, and we imagine that it will quickly make its way to the vast majority of VW products. What's more, a new optional city emergency braking function automatically stops the car at speeds below 18 miles per hour when an imminent collision is detected, sort of like the self-stopping systems by Volvo.

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Rolls-Royce to feature five personalized Rollers

When it comes to luxurious exclusivity, there's nothing quite like a Rolls-Royce. And while your local R-R dealer will give you the white glove and red carpet treatment all day long, the automaker prides itself on offering an extensive personalization program. After all, if you're paying buku bucks for any of the vehicles in the Rolls stable, why not shell out for some personal touches?

To promote its knack for bespoke design, Rolls-Royce will be bringing five personalized vehicles to the stage at this year's Paris Motor Show. Along with the gunmetal metallic extended-wheelbase Phantom pictured above, a Phantom Coupe, Drophead Coupe and two Ghosts will be on hand, allowing show-goers to get a taste of the optional touches available across the automaker's portfolio. The Phantom seen here features custom elements like special embroidery in the headrests, seat piping and mother of pearl centers to the white instrument dials, control knobs and analog clock face.

For the full details, put on your best top hat and hit the jump for Rolls-Royce's press blast, and scroll through the gallery below to see the Phantom outfitted with these bespoke touches.

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