Volvo S60 sedan shown at the Detroit auto show

Showing a new direction inspired by Scandinavian design, Volvo displayed a concept vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show that previews the new S60 sedan, due in 18 months. The car has a new face--with angled headlamps, a coupe roofline and no B-pillar--and an interior with the "environment of a modern Scandinavian living room," said Steve Mattin, Volvo senior vice president of design. The car's more emotional look is part of a longer-term strategy to give Volvo a more exciting image in the United States through changes in product design and marketing, said Stephen Odell, CEO of Volvo Car Corp.

Nissan Invitation concept

Nissan has released the first images of its new B-segment concept car, the Invitation. Set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor show next month, the car previews a new model that will sit between the Micra and Juke as the company returns to the traditional hatchback market. The Invitation's DRG features a wide grille with a chrome accent that extends into the lamps, reminiscent of the Quest MPV.

Skoda Superb Combi Outdoor with added Rufty-Tufty

The Skoda Superb Combi Outdoor is the Skoda take on the VW family ‘Allroad’, with a raised ride height and bolt-on plastic goodness. Even now, when Skoda has all but managed to shake off the mantle of Soviet Skip, the Superb Combi is still a much underrated car. The Superb Combi looks good, is well equipped and far more appealing than its (perfectly decent) hatch sibling.