Volkswagen New Midsize Coupe debuts at China motor show

The Volkswagen NMC (New Midsize Coupe) concept makes official the German carmaker's plans for a style-led sedan to challenge the likes of the strong selling Mercedes-Benz CLA. Unveiled at the Beijing motor show, the new four-door closely previews a future Jetta-based model that will slot into the Volkswagen lineup beneath the existing Passat CC, most likely in 2016. Volkswagen design boss Klaus Bischoff describes the NMC as “avant-garde protagonist for a new compact sedan class.” Looking all but ready for production, it continues the current Volkswagen design lineage, with crisp features and lines, heavily horizontal detailing, and taut surfacing -- all aimed at providing it with a technical-inspired appearance.

Fiat 500C Abarth coming?

It looks like Fiat are planning an Abarth version of the 500C for 2010 But the best comparison to the Fiat 500 on the market is the MINI. Fiat are obviously taking a leaf out of the MINI handbook of marketing by throwing special editions like the Fiat 500 Abarth Cometizione on to the market. And now it looks as if they’re following the MINI route by introducing a hot convertible – The Fiat 500C Abarth.

Russo and Steele auction remains closed

The Russo and Steele Collector Automobile Auction remained closed on Saturday as work crews continued to asses damage and clean up from high winds that destroyed two tents at the auction site in Scottsdale, Ariz., on Thursday night. In a message posted on the Russo and Steele Web site, CEO Drew Alcazar said he would meet with consignors of the cars at the auction on Saturday morning. He added that the auction would remain closed on Saturday but that Russo and Steele would work to hold auction sessions on Sunday and Monday.