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Chevrolet Sonic at the 2011 Detroit auto show

One of GM's numerous debuts at the 2011 Detroit auto show was this: the Chevrolet Sonic. Shown as a hatchback and four-door notchback, it's one of The General's weapons to tackle the now-globalised Ford Fiesta and its ilk. Good spot. That's because this is the US-spec Aveo - albeit shown in US-only notchback form as well as the more Euro-flavoured hatchback.

Toyota hybrid tech looking toward the future

Toyota continues to build momentum as a leader of the hybrid industry. At an inaugural event held in Ypsilanti, Mich., the brand brought together all of the Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles from the Japanese, American, and European markets. In a display by Toyota representatives, presentations started with a quick look back at the infancy of the company's hybrid program, starting with the first-generation Prius in 1997.

New Ford Mondeo ECOnetic announced

Ford has introduced a 2.0 litre version of the Mondeo ECOnetic We wouldn’t for a minute expect Ford to take the slightest bit of notice of us, but they have announced the launch of a second Ford Mondeo ECOnetic toady – this time an even ‘Greener’ version – so they’re going in the right direction! The new Ford Mondeo ECOnetic sports a 2.0 litre, 115bhp diesel engine which achieves a remarkable 54.3mpg (and remember, the Mondeo weighs in at over 1500kg). It manages to slip in to the sub 140g/km CO2 bracket – making it VED (Band E- £120pa)  and company car tax friendly – and comes as either a saloon or estate.