BMW 7 SERIES
For 2009, the 7 gets a major makeover. While there's talk it's on a new platform, it looks to be an upgrade of the current platform and not changed enough to appease those on the negative side of the car's polarizing 2002 model year redesign. The 2009 has new, smaller wraparound headlamps and some prominent sheetmetal changes that'll update Chris Bangle's "flame surfacing" philosophy, but the bustle trunk and the latest version of the often-debated iDrive remain. BMW is looking at selling a 4.0-liter turbodiesel V-8 version of the current car at the end of its cycle.
TO SUM UP: Striving to maintain its leading edge/controversial status.
CHEVROLET MALIBU
It's a new day for Chevy's quotidian midsize, which goes to the longer, 112.3-inch Epsilon wheelbase of the current Malibu Maxx. Meanwhile, the Maxx is discontinued; the 2008 Malibu will be four-door only. Engine choices will be an Ecotec 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a 3.6-liter DOHC V-6 and, later, an Ecotec/electric hybrid. Chevy plans no SS version, as that name will hereafter be added to serious performance cars only. The new Malibu interior features a handsome two-tone dash in six available color combinations and optional two-tone leather seats.
TO SUM UP: With its handsome, Audiesque design and good engine choices, it's the next big thing in midsize cars.
MERCEDES-BENZ C-CLASS
The C-Class is no longer a junior E-Class. Mercedes will emphasize the differences between sporty and traditional versions of the new W204 C and will put more distance between all C-Classes and the E-Class. Engine choices for 2008 will include a more powerful supercharged four for the C230 (which also gets a new name) and the return of the 268-horsepower engine in the C350. There are no plans for a Bluetec diesel in the United States. A C63 AMG, detuned to 481 horsepower, will be making its debut at the Frankfurt auto show.
TO SUM UP: A sportier Sport means the BMW 3 Series can look forward to more competition in the game.
PORSCHE PANAMERA
Porsche's first production sedan targets the BMW M5 and Mercedes CLS63 AMG, with the 2007 Cayenne's V-8, upgraded to a gas direct-injection 4.8-liter with VarioCam Plus valve control. Much of the engine's architecture was redesigned to slide nicely under the hood of the sleek new 2009 sedan. It's rated 385 horsepower naturally aspirated and 500 horses in twin-turbo form. The Panamera also will come with a V-6, probably from Audi or VW, to compete with six-cylinder European sport sedans, as well. Its body will be made at VW's Hanover plant, and final assembly will be at Porsche's Leipzig facility.
TO SUM UP: It's a whole new game for European sport sedans.