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Future products: Kia seeks lively, upscale look

Kia's redesigned Optima sedan and the Cadenza replacement for the Amanti, both due next year, reflect an emphasis on creating a livelier and more upscale look for the once-bland brand. Indeed, styling has been a crucial element of Kia's new-product push in the past 18 months. The team at Kia Design Center America near Los Angeles--part of the automaker's global design network led by onetime Audi design chief Peter Schreyer--has helped set the new styling direction.

Opel/Vauxhall Adam Rocks previews crossover, cabrio

Opel/Vauxhall has previewed its Adam Rocks 'concept' ahead of its world debut at next month's Geneva motor show. This mini-crossover is taller and wider than the production Adam thanks to a suspension raised by 15mm with a 20mm wider stance. Its fabric sunroof suggests it will compete with the Fiat 500C and the new Citroen DS3 Cabrio.  The sketches show unpainted plastic bumpers and extended wheelarches along with underbody protection, emphasizing its rugged appearance apparently inspired by "parkour athletes".

Aston Martin V12 Zagato ready to rock at the Nurburgring

Aston Martin V12 Zagato at Nurburgring - Zag at play We’ve had plenty to look at with the Aston Martin V12 Zagato in the last few weeks, especially when it turned up, resplendent in red, at Villa d’Este and walked away with 2011 Design Award for Concept Cars and Prototypes. But it’s an Aston Martin, so beauty is a given. But what about performance?