807130a4, 861229-c Exhaust Pipe, Mercruiser on 2040-parts.com

First Sight: BMW 1 Series

This is the first BMW to compete in the premium lower medium European car class defined by cars such as the Audi A3 and Alfa Romeo 147, although spiritually it follows the significantly smaller BMW 2002 Touring produced from 1968 to 1976. A little more compact that the 3 Series (which will grow in size with next year's new model) the 1 Series effectively replaces the 3 Series-based Compact and extends the brand downward to just above the Mini. The 1 Series was previewed by the CS1 two door convertible concept shown two years ago at Geneva, with which it shares much of its exterior proportions and form, and some interior design themes.

General Motors' small Cadillac will take aim at the BMW 3-series

The new Cadillac model that General Motors announced today will be aimed at the smaller models produced by BMW, Mercedes-Benz and other luxury brands. The rear-drive Cadillac is expected to be called the ATS and to arrive in showrooms in 2012 or early 2013, according to industry sources. “We will have a car positioned below the CTS in our lineup to compete with the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C class.,” said Nick Twork, a Cadillac spokesman, during a telephone interview.

Royal ride--Aston Martin DB6 Volante

We promise this will be the only mention of the royal wedding you'll see on autoweek.com, but we just can't resist a beautiful car. Prince William and Catherine Middleton, newly the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, drove away from their humble nuptials in an Aston Martin DB6 Volante with the top down, license plate reading "JU5T WED." Ignore the royals. Check out this car.