By Christopher Tan, Senior Correspondent

SLEEK LOOK FOR E-CLASS

Styling-wise, Mercedes' new E-class (above) has accelerated into modernity, shedding much of the fuddy-duddy image the model has long been associated with.

The car will be chockful of features, including daytime-running LEDs in the headlamps, lane-departure warning, blindspot assistance - many of which are found in newer Volvos and BMWs.

The model gets a new line of efficient engines, with turbocharging and direct injection making their debuts. The E200 and E250 are 1.8-litre four-cylinders. As the former is currently available only in manual, Singapore will get the 204bhp E250 five-speed auto. More powerful versions range from the 292bhp E350 to 525bhp E63AMG.

BIGGER ENGINE FOR PRIUS

Toyota's new Prius (above) gets small but impactful cosmetic changes. It gets a bigger 1.8-litre petrol engine and a comprehensively re-engineered hybrid system that is lighter and more efficient. The part-aluminium car is built on an all-new platform for better handling, stability and more space.

ANOTHER LEXUS HYBRID

Lexus has unveiled a new hybrid model, which will be launched next year. Called the HS250h, it is slightly bigger than the Lexus IS and is equipped with Lexus' first four-cylinder petrol engine, a highly efficient 2.4-litre Atkinson- cycle power plant. The HS250h (above) is expected to be at least 30 per cent more frugal than the most fuel-efficient Lexus today.

A7 SPORTBACK

Audi's new Sportback concept (below) will carry the A7 nameplate when it goes on sale next year. The luxury car, which features a five-door hatchback body, will go head-to-head with the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Audi will also launch a Mini rival called A1, while a new A2 is being considered.

SUPER FAST JAGUAR

Jaguar will introduce a supercharged 510bhp XFR which is destined to be its fastest sedan. It is powered by an all-new 5-litre V8 that hurtles it to 100kmh in 4.9 seconds. More relevant in everyday driving, it takes just 1.9 seconds to move from 80kmh to 110kmh.

This article was first published in The Straits Times on Jan 17, 2009.

For more The Straits Times stories, click here.