Suzuki adds a hot hatch to SX4 lineup

Suzuki will embrace the hot-hatch craze by adding a more street-worthy version of its SX4 compact car. Also, the entire SX4 lineup will get a more powerful engine and upgraded transmissions. The basics: The key to boosting the street image of the SX4 SportBack will be increased power from the redesigned 2.0-liter engine--up 7 hp to 150 hp.

Renault confirms new standalone coupe model

Renault has confirmed that it’s working on a new coupe model, to sit above the Megane Coupe, but to be sized and priced below the existing Laguna Coupe. Work only began late in 2010, but there will be a Renaultsport version and the Alpine name may feature. What do new know about this new Renault coupe?

GM to double size of battery lab

General Motors says it will spend $8 million to double the size of its Global Battery Systems Lab, which the company claims is the largest and most technologically advanced automotive battery lab in the United States. GM says the expansion will speed up the development of hybrid and electric vehicles, such as the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, by improving on-site testing of battery cells and systems. When finished, the lab will be 30,000 square feet bigger than it is now, for a 63,000-square-foot total.