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.

Honda at the London motor show 2008

By James Foxall Motor Shows 23 July 2008 14:35 Honda came up with a genuine global surprise at the London motor show 2008 – with the OSM concept car that previews a potenital successor to the S2000. The Open Study Model is a junior roadster that bears an uncanny resemblance to the CR-Z concept. We suspect this could translate into a convertible version of the CR-Z, itself bound for production in 2010 as a hybrid coupe.

2013 Mercedes E Class Saloon & Estate price from £32,400

Mercedes has revealed that the 2013 E Class saloon will start at £32,400 and the E Class Estate from 34,310. The E63 AMG costs from £73,720. In fact, with everything from lights to bumpers, grills to interior and smoother haunches and a big crease line down the side, Mercedes could almost have claimed the new E Class to be a new car rather than just a mid-life facelift for the current E Class.