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You may have a good idea. I could see Pontiac using a grille design that resembles the original Vibe grille in concept (the original Vibe grille design; not the updated Vibe grille that resembles the Solstice grille). It would be different and might keep GM from "Pontiac-izing" inappropriate products for the brand because the grille is more structural in design (it would be harder to slap this type of grille on a Chevy Cobalt than the current flat twin nostril grille).

Goodbye, Daimler. Thanks for giving a damaged car company back to us. Chrysler was building up momentum and finally moving past their "K car" phase when you came along and totally derailed this once proud American company. I could care less what you call yourself as long as you stay far away from any more U.S. car companies.

From the pictures in the article, this doesn't look like a terribly interesting car. I would like to see a good, clear profile shot before I pass a final judgement. One thing I definitely don't like is the large amount of black plastic around the fog lights; it cheapens the design of this car. I have to admit that the rear of this car is visually more interesting than the front. The red color highlights this design more than the silver color (silver does not highlight the subtle lines of this car). I have to admit that I am not a huge Audi fan. Except for a couple of models, most of their cars look too identical. I know that a brand should have a sense of similarity in their models to tie the brand together, but I think Audi could go a little further to differentiate their models.

I love it! The Torana would make a great compact Pontiac sedan.

The Vibe is based off the same torsion beam rear suspension platform that underpins the Toyota Corolla and Matrix. The Scion tC is based off a different independent rear suspension platform that underpins the Toyota Avensis in Europe and I believe some other products in Japan. I am not sure if it would be cost efficient for Toyota/GM to manufacture cars with different platforms at this factory (It might very well be possible, I don't know for sure). It would be nice to see the next generation Corolla/Matrix (or Blade?) and Vibe get an independent rear suspension, but I don't think it's going to happen. As far as Pontiac selling a version of the tC; I agree with PurdueGuy. I seriously doubt that Scion/Toyota would let Pontiac sell a nearly identical product that would diminish the exclusivity or cool factor of a Scion product. Scion customers are "supposed" to be younger, individualistic people who would not be caught dead driving a car from a make that their parents would own, be it Toyota, Chevy, Pontiac, etc. (Or so all the publicity hype would like us to believe; I've seen some elderly citizens driving Scion xB's). As far as the Vibe; I think it's a cool product, but not for Pontiac. I think it should go to Chevrolet as a contemporary looking alternative compact 5-door hatchback model to the HHR. I think the G5 should go away; it represents GM's dark past where badge engineered monstronsities ran rapid through every brand. Placing an ill-fitting Pontiac grille and Chevrolet Cobalt sedan tail lamps on a Cobalt coupe and passing it off as a Pontiac clearly defines why Pontiac has an identity crisis today. I would like to see GM cut the crap and move up the development of the Alpha platform so Pontiac has the proper hardware to create true rear wheel drive performance vehicles appropriate for the brand.

I went over to look at the sight after reading that it was updated. It does look empty, but hopefully it does not stay that way for long. I was happy to see that the 2008 Lucerne pictures all had the same grille as past model years. Does this mean that only the Lucerne Super is going to get the ugly, disfigured, pointy, beak grille. I hope so since I really dislike the grille that was featured on the Lucerne Super model. I did not see any information about the Super version on the site. The LaCrosse does look better with its new grille. It fits in better with the rest of the abbreviated lineup. Let's hope GM lives up to their hype about enlarging the lineup soon. Let's also hope that they enlarge the lineup with products that are able to convey Buick's near luxury image.

Since Buick is so big in China, this would be the perfect time to try to properly reposition the brand back here in the U.S. Other than making sure the cars meet government safety/emissions regulations, the development money has already been spent in China. If the models don't sell well, then it doesn't seem that it would be that big of a loss for GM. I think Buick could properly fill its niche as a near luxury brand with six models: * Compact FWD sedan (Skylark or possibly Century) * Midsize FWD sedan (Regal) * Large RWD sedan (Park Avenue or LeSabre) * Midsize crossover (Rendezvous - a new updated, redesigned version on the Theta platform) * Large crossover (Enclave) * Halo RWD coupe-convertible (Riviera) Some things Buick/GM would have to do to be taken seriously: * Each vehicle receives its own distinctive, upscale exterior/interior design that is totally different from any other brands' vehicles. No more rebadged Chevrolet products (For example: Cadillac Cimmaron, Pontiac G5, etc.) * Each vehicle would be loaded with the appropriate features, content, and technology for the vehicle to be a serious competitor in the near luxury market. * No more outdated overhead valve engines and no more 4 speed automatics. The competition in the near luxury field moved on past these items a long time ago. * Redesign the vehicles on a timely basis so that the model name stays relevant and the names do not have to be changed so often. Buick did well in the most recent J.D. Power report; unfortunately it was with models that the brand does not sell anymore. This could have been a publicity coup for the brand if customers could find the same models on a Buick lot today. Cut customer confusion and stop wasting marketing dollars changing names. If Buick executes this plan correctly, then it might see a revival. It would be great to see.

Like others have already said, there are two issues in this situation that explain why the Solstice/Sky sales disparity exists: 1) The Solstice has been out longer and has already hit its "sweet spot" in sales like all trendy cars tend to do. 2) The Sky was surrounded by a fresh, new, exciting portfolio of vehicles that helped drive new customers into Saturn dealerships. The Solstice was surrounded by the outdated badge engineered mess that GM is trying to eliminate. I would broom Pontiac's entire lineup (except for the Solstice and G8) and bring out brand appropriate products to support Pontiac's affordable performance image. I don't believe the Solstice in unattractive or a failure. It was a victim of circumstances that I hope GM is trying hard to fix.

The "Outback" treatment looks more ridiculous on the 2008 hatchback than it did on the 2007 wagon version of the Impreza. Subaru needs to stop trying to make this car have SUV/crossover traits to increase sales. It just doesn't jell with this car. Use the development money to give this car a competitive five or six speed automatic instead of a goofy "I wished I was a crossover" appearance.

I don't understand why they are not calling this "Lancer" in Japan. Talk about product confusion. I do like the grill and fog light treatment on this model. I hope a non-Evo version of our Lancer gets this treatment. It looks sharp and upscale. It adds a premium appearance to an already sharp looking sedan.

So the company's hopes are based on the Lancer. I think it is a good place to start, but hopefully the company has bigger plans. If not, then I have serious hopes on their survival. I do like the new Lancer. The exterior is far more attractive than the rental car darling appearance of its predecessor. It looks like a good base for the upcoming Evo. I also like the idea of a hatchback version. I just hope it is as attractive as the new sedan and bares no resemblance to the wagon version of the previous generation. The Galant and Endeavor are in serious need of a redesign. I agree with the dealers; a new bumper/fascia treatment is not going to have any effect on either vehicles' fortunes. Both exterior designs are unattractive and do absolutely nothing to bring new customers into Mitsubishi dealerships. I believe it would be a mistake to drop the Endeavor in a crossover crazy market; the next generation just needs to be a homerun in the styling and engineering department. I would also like to see the Galant become a true alternative competitor to the Camry/Accord juggernaut. It will take a massive redesign/reengineering effort to make this happen in addition to a massive media campaign. I do hope Mitsubishi survives. Having choices in the auto market makes it exciting. Seeing a good conquering underdog story is also exciting. I just hope Mitsubishi has the fight in them to make it happen. P.S. Dropping the Raider was a step in the right direction.

I agree with abandoning the premium status for Subaru. The products just do not convey a premium look or attitude. There is an alarming shortage of expansion in the lineup. All I basically see in the plans are redesigns of the models that the company already offers. It would be great to see a sporty vehicle on the horizon. I just now noticed this; the 2008 Impreza sedan kind of looks like an old Saturn L-series sedan (especially in profile). Not a good place from which to copy a design, although I believe the similarity is unintentional. The exterior design of both the sedan and hatchback were a little disappointing as was the decision to carry on with a four speed automatic. The interior looks more upscale and attractive, though. The 2008 Tribeca does look better, but a little bland. Hopefully, this less polarizing exterior appearance will attract more buyers. The larger, more powerful, more fuel efficient engine that requires a lower octane rated gas should also help. At least the hideous, unsuccessful, aircraft inspired, winged grill monstrosity has been graciously retired to the Edsel Memorial Repulsive Grill Cemetery.

I know this car (and most Hondas in general) are well built and reliable, but the company's exterior designs lack vision or passion. If I had to buy a car in this class, I would prefer a Mazda2 (which Mazda stubbornly refuses to bring here) or the upcoming Ford Fiesta (if it will look anything like the Verve concept car).

I agree with you on the shade of blue; it's very nice. I also like the chrome touches around the fog lights and on the door handles; it gives the exterior an upscale appearance. I just wished GM would have given Pontiac's version a distinct and unique exterior from the Equinox. Oh well, I guess you can't have everything. Nice pictures, though.

It does look better without the camouflage than it did in the spy shots. The exterior definitely looks better than the recently redesigned minivans. The interior has a lot of thoughtful/useful touches, although the overall design is still quite unattractive. At least the model name is decent ("Crew" did not evoke any passion or imagery at all). I don't think this is the vehicle that will put Chrysler LLC on solid standing, but it might be a step in the right direction. As far as the Chrysler brand using this platform, I would like to see the replacements for both the PT Cruiser and Pacifica be based on it. I believe Chrysler has considered dropping both vehicles from the lineup. With crossovers as popular as ever, I believe this would be a mistake. Chrysler also has market equity built up in both model names, so why not give both models a shot on a new platform. Keep the retro wagon styling for the PT Cruiser (and its legion of enthusiasts) and give the new Pacifica a classy, updated look. Whatever Chrysler does, I hope they do not just slap a Chrysler grill on a Dodge Journey and pass it off as the new Pacifica. The Journey and Pacifica need to go their "separate ways" in the styling department.

Why do people insist on keeping front wheel drive vehicles in Pontiac's lineup? If GM is planning on repositioning Pontiac as a true and pure perfomance division in the Pontiac-GMC-Buick dealer network, then the front wheel drive vehicles have to go. Pontiac and Buick will no longer be a full scale makes that offer a version of every GM product. From what I understand, Pontiac and Buick will be niche makes that offer brand specific products to smaller portions of the buying public. Both brands' products need to be very focused; the products should be designed and engineered to satisfy specific customers. Since the brands will be niche brands, their sales goals will not be as big as in the past. Pontiac's lineup should consist of the following products: * Affordable rear wheel drive roadster/coupe (Solstice). * Compact rear wheel drive sedan/coupe/convertible on the Alpha platform. * Midsize rear wheel drive sedan/coupe/convertible on the Zeta platform. * Performance rear wheel drive coupe/convertible on the Zeta platform. This is all Pontiac needs to fill its niche in the Pontiac-GMC-Buick dealer network. The brand needs to become an affordable performance division that offers alternatives to pricey American/European luxury makes. If you want to buy a front wheel drive midsize sedan on the Epsilon II platform, then go to Chevrolet, Saturn, or Buick (and I guess Saab, if you really want to count them). Additional note to Pontiac, be proud of your American heritage and lose the silly alpha-numeric ("G5, G6, G8") model designations. Back to the subject at hand. The car in question is hideous and hopefully a leftover relic of Pontiac's past.

If Ford can bring this car to market with most of the concept's design DNA intact, it will blow the doors off of most of the competition in the B segment. Watch out Scion xD, Honda Fit, Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, and Chevrolet Aveo; Ford is about to make a big splash in the subcompact market. Let's just hope that Ford properly nails the details. Now if only Mazda will wake up and bring the Mazda2 over here.

The sedan and coupe both look better than the current generation. This is not saying much, since the current generation looks like a mid 90's design. It's o.k., but the 2008 design already looks dated compared to the Altima, Aura, 2008 Malibu, and what I have seen of the 2009 Mazda6 (I hate to say this, but I even like the exterior design of the current Camry better). It will still sell well based on Honda's reputation, which is what I guess Honda should be shooting for (and some of the other makes would kill for).

The exterior design appears kind of dull, but I am not going to pass my final judgment until I can see the entire vehicle without camouflage. All I can say about the interior is YIKES! I know (or at least hope) that a lot of the detail work is missing at this point, but the rectangular retro 80's gauge cluster has to go. I share concerns with other forum members about an interior design where the radio is placed below the climate controls. As other forum members have already commented: What is with the name "Crew"? It's a very dull/lame moniker for what I hope will not be a dull/lame vehicle. I hope someone changes the name before this vehicle hits the market. I don't believe this vehicle truly represents the "New Chrysler". Most of the development of this vehicle took place while Daimler was apparently trying to destroy the company. I just hope that the current regime at Cerberus notices and fixes any flaws this vehicle has before they release it on the public. I believe most of the public will view this vehicle as the "New Chrysler"; it is imperative that Cerberus gets it right. Chrysler LLC cannot afford to risk its future releasing subpar vehicles on the public.

Wow! Thanks for posting this. It gives a great preview of what we can expect with this wonderful new Chevrolet/GM product. I can't wait to see one in person.

I love it, especially the LTZ model! It looks like Chevy finally has a true contender for the midsize market. I hope it is a great success for Chevrolet and GM. As far as the styling of this car compared to the Aura; I like both designs. I like the interior in the Malibu a little better than the Aura's interior. I think both cars represent GM's commitment to its revival. Let's just hope that the hits keep coming.

Most of the exterior is o.k. Nothing to get too excited about; it kind of has a "been there, done that" approach to the exterior styling. The rear of this vehicle is kind of awkward; looks like a Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Tribeca, and a Nissan Versa hatchback had a three-way collision and no one won. The interior looks nice. I share some other people's concerns about ergonomics; it seems some of the controls and buttons are placed at odd angles. Overall, the entire vehicle is pleasant, but doesn't do much to create a feeling of excitement.

A more news worthy item for PT Cruiser enthusiasts would have been a redesigned model on a new platform. Rehashing the current model with new trim editions is not helping this vehicle stay relevant. A completely new, redesigned edition should have come out at least two years ago.

From the Autoweek website: "Chrysler-Chery" "In July, Chrysler and Chery announced they would jointly produce a car for the United States. But first, the two will assemble a car for Latin America and eastern Europe. That vehicle, an existing Chery small car called the A1, will carry a Dodge badge." "Chrysler President Tom LaSorda says a different Chery-made car should reach U.S. showrooms in mid-2009." "LaSorda is mum on which model. But sources say a production version of the Dodge Hornet concept is likely to be the first car produced for export to the United States. Chery and Chrysler are doing a feasibility study on the Hornet, say Chery sources. If produced, the car will use a Chery platform and a Chrysler design." "The Hornet is a long-wheelbase, five-passenger hatchback. It has a tall, spacious interior and rear seats that fold flat, like those in Chrysler minivans. The Hornet is wide for a small car." "The North American press gave the Hornet good marks." "The model for the United States would be priced below the Dodge Caliber. Last year, Chery sold 303,671 vehicles in China." I just read this information this morning at the Autoweek website. I hope these two companies can work out the details to bring us the Hornet. It should be a great Scion-fighter for Dodge. Hopefully, Chrysler will help Chery work on their crash test results (China built cars seem to have issues with this). I just can't see Dodge selling a rebadged Chery A1 over here.

The exterior looks like a bulked-up Highlander, which in turn looks like a bulked-up RAV-4. I always thought that you made the lesser models in your lineup look more like the flagship to make your entire lineup appear more upscale. Toyota has reversed this concept; the flagship took design cues from the smaller vehicles so that it could look cheap. Oh well. As far as the Lexus version (sorry, I can't remember the meaningless alpha-numeric model name); from the pictures I have seen of it, it is the same body with a different front and rear (Lexus-ised) treatment. GM, Ford, and Chrysler would get bashed about their cynical approach to unsuccessful badge engineering. Will the automotive press be as tough on Toyota for doing essentially the same thing?