Marchionne details Chrysler's future products

The real product news from Chrysler wasn't on the stand at the Detroit auto show; it came from the mouth of CEO Sergio Marchionne. Marchionne ditched the standard industry maxim of not discussing future products during a series of interviews during the Detroit show. Here's a roundup of the details: -- The replacement for the Dodge Caliber arrives late this year.

Nissan to open new studio in Beijing

After last week's announcement of leadership changes at Nissan's North American and European design centers, Nissan Investment Co., Ltd (NCIC), a Nissan subsidiary in China, today revealed plans to expand its global design resources with the establishment of a new design studio in Beijing. "With the addition of 20 designers, Nissan's new studio will enhance our design capabilities, as well as our product competitiveness in China and Asia where the automotive industry continues to see robust growth," said Shiro Nakamura, chief creative officer and senior vice president of design and brand. "Locating the studio where our customers live and work allows us to best respond to their needs and design vehicles that exceed their expectations." Scheduled to open early in 2011, the studio in the Chao Yang district of Beijing will be the first design facility in China established by a Japanese automaker.

Ford Focus RS500 revealed for Europe

We've been clamoring for the European Ford Focus, and the Blue Oval finally acquiesced. But no matter how hard we beg, the most sinister Focus in the world isn't coming to the United States. But that doesn't stop us from drooling all over the RS500, which broke cover on Monday, packing 345 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque.