Preview: Porsche Panamera

After what has already been the most drawn-out model introduction ever (the initial Porsche sketches of the new model having been revealed in 2005), Porsche has finally released the first official rendering of its forthcoming Panamera sedan, set to be launched in 2009. Though the plan view doesn't show much of the new Porsche's design, the company says the features will 'include a wide and low body offering dynamic proportions and muscular design'. But while the grand tourer will have a 'compact overall look', the interior space is claimed to offer a brand-new experience of roominess, with two single seats and generous headroom at the rear allowing adults to sit in comfort.

Subaru Forester (2009): first official pictures

By Phil McNamara First Official Pictures 27 December 2007 14:50 This is Subaru's all-new Forester estate, set to be unveiled at January's Detroit motor show. Devoted fans won't be disappointed, because the 2009 model year Forester dogmatically sticks to the Forester formula: a jacked up, four-wheel drive wagon, but with a newish look, more refinement and improved safety levels, says Subaru. Today's boxy, oldschool Volvo-look makes way for a boxy, newschool Mitsubishi Outlander-look. The lamps, grille and glasshouse are slightly more expressive than on the current car, but Subaru isn't breaking any new ground for car design. Good job, because last time that happened, the Tribeca MPV was inflicted on the world.

Starting Out: How to become a car designer

It's a common predicament. You're 16 years old and desperate to become a car designer but have little idea about how to achieve that burning ambition. Well, discovering Car Design News is a good start, but if you're serious about training as a designer to work in a major car studio then you need to do a course in Transportation Design, a branch of Industrial Design (sometimes known as Product Design).