Honda Civic (2011) at Frankfurt motor show

This is the ninth generation of Honda’s small car star, which has gestated from trend setting (Civic Mk1 of 1972) to stylistically dull if technically advanced (most) to sci-fi-style wacko but technically mainstream (Civic Mk8). New Civics, over the years, have been about as easy to forecast as David Beckham’s next hairstyle as Honda engineers – never the most predictable bunch – veer from brave to bashful. The new Civic, unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show, is eye-catching although less off-centre than generation eight, and is closed basely mechanically on its predecessor.

2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC to sticker at $143,400 when sales start in August

Pushing 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, the newest member of the Maserati lineup is now the brand's fastest production vehicle in North America. The 2012 GranTurismo MC gets a base price of $143,400--which includes $1,800 in shipping charges and a $1,700 gas-guzzler tax. For full wind-in-your-hair accelerative exposure, the convertible-sport variant starts at $146,300, including the shipping and gas-guzzler charges.

First Sight: BMW 1 Series

This is the first BMW to compete in the premium lower medium European car class defined by cars such as the Audi A3 and Alfa Romeo 147, although spiritually it follows the significantly smaller BMW 2002 Touring produced from 1968 to 1976. A little more compact that the 3 Series (which will grow in size with next year's new model) the 1 Series effectively replaces the 3 Series-based Compact and extends the brand downward to just above the Mini. The 1 Series was previewed by the CS1 two door convertible concept shown two years ago at Geneva, with which it shares much of its exterior proportions and form, and some interior design themes.