Mini Sports to be Built by Magna Steyr

The rumors about BMW Group just announced that it has found a partner for an all-new project to round out its Mini brand lineup are indeed correct . Mini will be building a compact Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), and it will be assembled by Magna Steyr of Austria.

One of the biggest reasons why the production of the new SAV was outsourced was due to the issues of space at the original Mini factory in England. The Oxford plant is running at full capacity producing the regular Cooper, the Convertible and the new Clubman. There just wouldn't be enough room to accommodate another high-volume model. In the case of the SAV, it could result in as many as 80,000 units annually.

Currently, BMW has a major contract with Magna Steyr, which produces the BMW X3 in its Graz, Austria factories. However, with the current generation preparing to wind down after a successful run (estimated to take place in 2010 or 2011) and with production moving internally to BMW's Spartanburg South Carolina facility, there's plenty of space to build the upcoming mini-Mini SAV.

Seigfried Wolf, co-CEO of Magna International says that this is a "huge recognition of the work that Magna Steyr has achieved so far through its partnership with BMW Group. Above all, I'm delighted for our employees, as this will allow us to set another milestone in our long-running and successful cooperation with BMW Group. As we have done before, we will work on this vehicle program with our fullest commitment to ensure that we meet BMW Group's high expectations."

For those curious about the actual vehicle, it's been dubbed by the automotive world as "Monte", named after, we think, Monte Carlo, the rally circuit at which the original Mini Cooper raced and won. An alternative name for markets outside of North America could be “Colorado”.

Whatever the name, Mini's first Sport Activity Vehicle will be different from all other Minis in one big way, it'll be all wheel drive. Those who have spotted testing mules have spied the presence of rear driveshafts poking out from under the lifted body. Spy snappers have also noted that the car seems to be slightly longer than the Clubman, with an estimated length of 13 feet. Reportedly, to accommodate the new components, the rear suspension had to be completely redesigned. Make no mistake though, this won't be an off-roading vehicle.

This new Mini will undoubtedly be the talk of the town when it's launched. The combination of the Mini brand's cheeky character, the near infinite permutations of configurations have carved the brand a niche in the hatchback and convertible market place, but the combination of the future vehicle's compact size and added ride height will be sure to have customers flocking to the brand's showrooms.

2011 MINI Cooper Review

MINI Cooper 2011 it doesn’t look new. Then again, MINI hasn’t really come up with an original design since the ‘new’ Cooper debuted in 2001. And even then one could argue it was just a modern interpretation of the classic shape.

OK, so the 2011 model is just a mid-cycle refresh. That being said the Cooper, not to mention our more fun Cooper S test car, gets a long list of small upgrades in numerous areas that help add-on more of what the car does best. Unfortunately, MINI has done nothing to address the car’s few, albeit important, drawbacks.

Design wise, it’s barely worth noting the changes to the Cooper S with adjustments so minute it’s even hard to tell this year’s car apart from the 2010 model when parked side by side.

The 2011 Mini Cooper is uniquely styled, which some like, and others do not. The cargo area opens with doors that swing out rather than lift up, and a third door on the passenger side that has a reverse opening allows easier access to the back seat, but is unique. Standard features on the base model include dual power remote mirrors, rear window wipers, daytime running lights, and halogen headlights. Higher level trims (and optional features) include options like run flat tires, foglights, different choices for wheels, xenon headlights, rear parking assist, and a two-pane sunroof.

The interior of the 2011 MINI Cooper remains relatively unchanged. The base model includes air conditioning, leatherette upholstery, a CD player with auxiliary audio port, a trip computer, and cruise control. Upgraded trims and options include features like sport seats, cloth seats, automatic temperature control, leather seats, HD or satellite radio, an iPod connection, and upgraded speakers.

One of the primary reasons to choose the MINI Cooper over the MINI Cooper is the additional legroom in the back seat. There is plenty of headroom in both the front and rear. The current cargo area is usefully shaped, and the rear seat folds flat with a 50/50 split.

More, slightly less-insignificant changes have been made under the hood, with the turbocharged 4-cylinder now getting BMW’s Valvetronic variable valve timing technology, resulting in a bump in power of 9 ponies. The new total is 181-hp, delivering a 6.6 second 0-60 mph time. Like all MINIs, it feels much faster though, and with a curb weight of just under 2,700 lbs the thrust from the turbo will keep you excited well above anything remotely legal.

Adding to the enjoyment, MINI has enhanced the popping sound from the engine when under deceleration or when you lift off the throttle. From a technical standpoint, it’s completely irrelevant, but from an ownership perspective its value is huge. Not only adding to the uniqueness of the car, it speaks to a level of performance well beyond the cutesy shape. Every pop tells those around you that this is not a “chick car” and that, when asked, it can mess with some pretty serious metal.

Cooper have a firm ride that can be a little bumpy with the run-flat tires installed. These tires do not perform as well in the snow. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual, although a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control is available as an option.

As for the drive, it’s as fun as they come, delivering incredible balance, tight and responsive steering, plus the ability to speed through corners well above what you thought was possible. The suspension is a bit stiff though – MINI did nothing about that. The cabin is airy and spacious, which is always surprising for such a small car. It’s also ‘airy’ in another way, with a significant amount of wind noise generated by that upright windshield. One small feature we love is the hill-start assist, something every manual transmission car could use.

The price for the Cooper seems reasonable at first for $23,700 but that number is rather misleading. That harmon kardon audio system, paired with a sunroof and automatic climate control in the Premium Package adds on $1,750; with $1,000 for MINI Connected ($1,750 with Navigation); plus an additional $1,000 (or more) for leather. And while unique, the leather just looks and feels low grade – all for something that’s going to cost roughly $30,000.

2011 Dodge Durango Debut In Chicago

Dodge has revealed the 2011 Durango Heat in the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. It is based on the Durango R/T. The R/T gets a V8 engine and the Heat is powered by a V6. Both pretty much look the same.

Interested in the 2011 Dodge Durango R/T, but wish you could exchange Hemi power for six-cylinder fuel economy? Good news: the 2011 Dodge Durango Heat, revealed this morning at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show, may appeal to your sensibilities.

The Durango Heat and the R/T get fog lamps, a colour-matched grille and dark headlamp bezels. Also included are a colour-matched body kit, wheel lips and rear fascia with integrated dual chrome exhaust outlets.

From afar, you might mistake the Heat for the new Durango R/T, which was also rolled out in Chicago. For the most part, the two are virtually identical - both receive a unique front fascia with fog lamps and an aggressive chin spoiler, unique side sills, body-colored grille surround, xenon HID headlamps, performance-tuned suspension calibration, and unique 20-inch satin-finish aluminum wheels.

The difference, however, is only noticable once you pop the hood. While the R/T is fitted with the 360-horsepower, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, the Heat falls two cylinders short. Instead, it's fitted with Chrysler's new 295-horsepower, 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. Although the six-banger may not excite true power junkies, it will appease owners when it comes time to top off the 24.6-gallon tank. The EPA rates rear-wheel-drive Durango V-6 models at 16/23 mpg (city/highway), while all-wheel-drive models attain a 16/22 mpg rating. In contrast, V-8 models are rated at 14/20 mpg and 13/20 mpg, respectively.

Opting for the Heat will also save buyers in the showroom. Chrysler says pricing for the Heat - which slots in between the base and midlevel Crew trims - will start at $31,145 (including $850 in destination charges) for a two-wheel-drive model; adding all-wheel-drive bumps that figure to $33,145. Tthe Durango R/T, on the other hand, is priced at $36,315, or $38,715 for an all-wheel-drive model.

Like the R/T, the 2011 Durango Heat is expected to roll into Dodge dealerships across North America later this spring.

The 2011 Dodge Durango will be making its way to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and other GCC countries in a few more months.

New Generation Nissan Versa 2012

According to information we received, this car will be released in autumn 2011, and the following is information about the performances, specifications, features, and the 2012 Nissan Versa competitors. This car is a very strange car in the market because sales are always better than expected, this may be because that is the Nissan Versa hatchback at affordable prices with a niche market that is relatively easy.

For 2012 Nissan Versa model, Nissan will launch four-door sedan that was recently unveiled at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China and branded as the Nissan Sunny. It will retain many features of the current model and option package, but from first glance appears to be a vehicle almost entirely new.

The new Nissan Versa Sedan looks small from exterior but it’s big from inside. 2012 Nissan Versa equip with more fuel efficient from 33 miles per galon, Smart technology with next-generation efficiency.

Transportation of family and all friend, the designers of the new Nissan Versa sedan for five passengers was attempting to combine the convenience of a high level of comfort and refinement. It also provides an unexpectedly available for entertainment and connectivity features like Bluetooth®, navigation system 5-inch touchscreen, Satellite Radio and iPod ® / USB interface.

Model 2012 Nissan Versa is a sedan only, and the cabin height of the hatchback has been abolished. 2012 Nissan Versa will have a very slim outside appearance that was originally going to confuse the audience. The design is very sporty, if anything that resembles a concept version of Toyota Corolla future. Many experts have made various preparations is seen as a replacement eventually to model Sentra and Versa surprise is felt as the name will be recorded for all-new subcompact.

The machine will come standard and a list of standard interior features, Nissan is keeping a rather guarded secret. Hatchback currently has a 122 engine horsepower 4-cylinder and would seem appropriate to model clothing 2012 Nissan Versa with the same powertrain, but Nissan may consider slightly larger engine, or at least offer an uplevel trim. Read also: 2012 Nissan Sentra.

Because it is designed very differently than the current sedan or hatchback, airbag configuration will change, because the cabin is now a completely different shape. 2011 Sedan models have six airbags and Brake Assist is combined with Vehicle Dynamic Control. There is no reason to think that Nissan will eliminate this feature or to change them because of this configuration becomes standard on more vehicles worldwide, even in the economy segment of the industry price.

Exterior features also include a fixed roof antenna, Body color front and rear fascia and grille available chrome-accented, black-out B-pillars, chrome door handles and fog lamps. 2012 Versa Sedan is available in eight exterior colors, including metallic blue, Onyx, Super Black, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, red brick, fresh powder and titanium.

Because of its sporty appearance, the 2012 Nissan Versa will have the buyer try to find out what’s vehicle classification Indeed subcompact entry, but given all the changes, price sticker is still unknown. 2011 Versa sedan starts under $ 10,000, but if the model 2012 Nissan Versa is much higher then that means the Versa will compete directly against the 2012 Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Corolla and Kia Rio possible. All have a miniscule engine fuel economy is good and some additional important, but the question is whether buyers wanted a sporty, almost striking a vehicle more visible in low-end.

Nissan Versa 2011 Review

The 2011 Nissan Versa is the best car for you if driving a good small car now is more important than waiting for a replacement you hope is as capable, efficient, and affordable.

The 2011 Nissan Versa is largely a carryover from the 2010 Nissan Versa, though the important safety advantage of an antilock braking system (ABS) becomes standard instead of optional on more models. The 2011 Versa will continue as a cleverly packaged five-passenger auto that competes with smaller subcompact cars on price but with larger compact cars for passenger and cargo room. Versa was introduced for model-year 2007, supplanting the Sentra as Nissan’s entry-level car. Nicer to look at and better to drive than the Sentra, it’s gone on to outsell its more established sibling, and now Nissan is preparing to introduce the second-generation Versa. The company is mum on details, but it appears the redesigned Versa will go on sale during 2011 as a 2012 model.

More changes are light for the 2011 Nissan Versa: antilock brakes are now included with the upgraded 1.6 sedan trim, while the 1.8 S sedan gains a six-disc CD changer.

Nissan Versa is available in four-door sedan and hatchback body styles and its most basic models offer little in the way of convenience features. If you opt for the cheapest trim level, you'll be cranking your own windows, climbing across seats to unlock doors and humming to your own tunes because there are neither power accessories nor even a radio. But you still get enough space for four 6-footers, comfy seats, a soft ride, a nicely crafted interior and a large trunk.

Stepping up to the higher trim levels gets you common features like power accessories, air-conditioning and a radio. But the Versa is one of the few cars in its price range to offer such items as keyless ignition/entry, a navigation system, an iPod interface and Bluetooth. In other words, depending on your preference, the Versa can be either bare-bones transportation or one of the best-equipped small cars on the market.

Buy a 2011 Versa if your immediate transportation needs call for a small car that’ll won’t bust your budget but will surprise you with its all-around competence. Wait for the 2012 Versa if you hanker for the next-generation model and want to gamble that Nissan won’t dally until model-year 2013 to introduce it. In any event, Nissan dealers will discount outgoing first-generation Versas to clear inventory for the redesigned replacement – be it a 2012 or 2013 model.

The 2011 Nissan Versa is a subcompact car available in sedan and hatchback styles. The two lowest trims -- 1.6 Base and 1.6 -- are sedan only, while the 1.8 S and 1.8 SL can be had as a hatchback as well.

The 1.6 Base lives up to its name with scarcely any convenience equipment, providing only 14-inch steel wheels, a tilt steering wheel, intermittent wipers and four audio speakers (but no stereo to go along with them). The 1.6 adds air-conditioning, antilock brakes (optional on Base) and the option to get an automatic transmission.

The 1.8 S trim adds 15-inch steel wheels, power mirrors, cushier front seats and a stereo with a six-disc CD changer and an auxiliary audio jack. The Power Plus package adds power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control and padded door armrests.

The 1.8 SL adds 15-inch alloy wheels, a height-adjustable driver seat, upgraded cloth upholstery, front and rear center armrests, 60/40 split rear seatbacks (sedan) and a six-speaker stereo. The sedan's Convenience package adds keyless ignition/entry, Bluetooth and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls. The Hatchback's Premium package is basically the same thing, but adds 16-inch alloy wheels. An auto-dimming rearview mirror and interior ambient lighting are optional on the 1.8 S (sedan only) and 1.8 SL; the hatchback can also be equipped with a sunroof. Finally, the 1.8 SL can be equipped with a navigation system that includes a small touchscreen, real-time traffic, an iPod interface and satellite radio.

The 2011 Nissan Versa has a remarkably roomy cabin. Headroom is plentiful thanks to the car's tall roof, and generous legroom allows 6-foot passengers in both the front and rear seats to sit comfortably. Looks-wise, the car's interior is quite bland, but overall interior quality is high. The controls are simple and easy to use, and optional items like keyless ignition/entry, Bluetooth and satellite radio are welcome goodies in this budget-friendly car.

Base-price range for the 2011 Nissan Versa is $10,740-$17,650. This range is in line with subcompact cars physically smaller than the Versa, such as the 2011 Ford Fiesta subcompact. Compact cars similar in size to the Versa – the Mazda 3 and Toyota Corolla, for example – start around $16,000. (Base prices sited in this review do not include options but do factor in the manufacturer’s destination fee; Nissan’s fee for the 2011 Versa is $750.)

At $9,990 without the destination charge, Nissan is justified in touting the 2011 Versa 1.6 Base sedan as one of the lowest-priced new cars sold in the U.S.; only the least expensive Hyundai Accent two-door hatchback rivals it for the title. The starting price of the 2011 Versa 1.6 Base sedan in fact hasn’t changed since the car was introduced for model year 2009, though the destination fee has climbed slightly.

The 2011 Nissan Versa 1.6 sedan starts at $11,990 with manual transmission and $12,990 with automatic. Moving up the sedan line, the 2011 Versa 1.8 S sedan has a base price of $14,320 with manual transmission, $15,320 with automatic. The 2011 Nissan Versa 1.8 SL sedan comes only with the four-speed automatic transmission and has a base price of $17,220.

Thanks to its softly tuned suspension, the 2011 Nissan Versa offers the sort of pillow-like ride that's usually reserved for much larger cars. It handles with enough agility to suit most drivers, but those seeking a more engaging driving experience will be better served by the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit or Mazda 2.

Both the Versa's engine choices pack a solid midrange punch, making them capable performers around town and on the freeway. We're not huge fans of the six-speed manual transmission that comes with the 1.8 S -- the low-effort clutch can be difficult to modulate -- and the four-speed automatic is similarly uninspiring. We'd recommend going with either the 1.6's five-speed manual or the SL's hatchback's CVT.

Pre-Indy 500 Solar Car Race In New Mexico Team

100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 this year. In the first week of May, before the air is filled with the raspy voice supercharged engine, iconic racetrack will host the show gasoline-free when 12 teams from around the country race their solar-powered car in the Formula Sun Grand Prix. A group of engineering students from the University of New Mexico will be racing three-wheeled, single seat vehicle, Lobo del Sol, which can hit speeds up to 70 mph.

Four drivers will take shifts because their car lap around the 0.9 mile closed track with the aim of racking the most mileage for three days of racing, explained Olga Lavrova, research assistant professor in the department of electrical and computer engineering university and advisor teams. Pod-like craft resembling a retro science fiction movies, Lobo del Sol is 6 feet and width 16 meters. Array 64-square-foot photovoltaic cells mounted on the front and back of the car to convert sunlight into electricity to run the engine, which uses between one and two kilowatts of power for normal driving. This compares with a microwave oven that uses an average of about 1.5 kilowatts of electricity.

The car also has an on board battery that stores enough energy to power the car for between half an hour and an hour in cloudy conditions or after sunset. The battery can charge from zero to full capacity in about three hours, Lavrora said.

“That’s the beauty of the solar cars: most of the daytime they don’t ever need to be plugged in,” said Lavrora. “If you need some capacity to drive after the sunset that’s when they have to be plugged in.”

“That’s why I am strong believer that solar should become a feature on more cars. A lot of times cars sit in the parking lot and it’s full-blast sunshine and you could be recharging your battery,” she said.

While lightweight cars, like the students’ racer, are readily juiced with solar energy, full-scale commercial solar cars are still a thing of the future since roof-mounted photovoltaic cells produce a minimal amount of electricity. This is because they occupy little space and their ability to function optimally is compromised since they lie flat, instead of being angled toward the sun like photovoltaic cells on buildings, according to MIT’s Technology Review.

Using stationary solar panels to charge the batteries of plug-in hybrids is a cheaper and more efficient way to harness solar power, according to the Review. Fully electric cars, like the Nissan Leaf, can be charged the same way.

However, small buggy-like solar machines do exist. The Venturi Eclectic, an electric car that has solar panels and a wind turbine on the roof, and can also be plugged in to charge, has been on the market since 2007. Popular Mechanics described the vehicle as “very comfortable and manageable as an urban get-around car,” while referring to it as a “golf-cart-on-steroids” with “slightly-better-than-motorcycle crash protection.” The French made car can reach a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour and has a range of 30 miles.

Lavrora pointed to the new Toyota Prius, which comes with the option of having solar cells installed on the roof, as an example of the incorporation of solar technology into car design. The cells do not power the car, but rather run fans that extract hot air from the car when it’s parked, which cools the car down so the air conditioner doesn’t have to work as hard.

When asked what she envisages for solar power’s contribution to transportation in 10 years time, Lavrora said she sees people making use of small, solar-powered commuter cars on a “when needed” basis. These cars might form part of car sharing networks, similar to Zipcar, she explained.

Solar power could also be used in more buildings and be used to power streetlamps and traffic lights, she said.

Solar power could already be more widely used, but its implementation is being held back because tax breaks are given to oil and mining companies while very few are given to solar and wind companies, she said.

“And then, of course, you hear the general public complain that solar is so expensive. Well, the truth is gas and oil has been made cheaper for us through subsidies and that’s why nobody is complaining about it,” she said.

New Toyota Matrix 2011

The 2011 Matrix is due a minor styling facelift and its sporty and all-wheel-drive (AWD) models will likely get a new engine. The 2011 Matrix will remain basically a station wagon version of the 2011 Toyota Corolla compact sedan but with the additional benefit of available AWD. Toyota is phasing-in the installation of an electronic brake override designed to thwart sudden acceleration and every model-year 2011 Matrix will have the upgrade. Most 2010 models should have it as well.

Should you wait for the 2011 Toyota Matrix or buy a 2010 Toyota Matrix? Wait for the 2011 Matrix if you want the latest styling tweaks or you’re interested in a bit more power. Neither should be compelling enough, however, to pass up a great deal on a 2010 Matrix if you need a compact wagon now. Toyota’s extending generous cash-back and low-interest incentives as it tries to recover from sales lost during the sudden-acceleration recall. Obviously, verify with your dealer that any 2010 Matrix you’re considering has the brake-override system as well as the modified gas pedal and replacement driver’s-side floormat fitted as part of the recall.

With miles of style and attitude to spare — the 2011 Matrix is ready for whatever, whenever. With its low profile and wide track, Matrix has performance inspired styling backed up by the power beneath the hood.

The S Package—available on both Matrix and Matrix AWD—brings out Matrix's aggressively sporty attitude courtesy of 17" Aluminum Alloy Wheels with Wheel Locks, Sport Grille, Fog Lamps, Power Moonroof, Roof Mounted Spoiler, Chrome Exhaust Tip, Colored Mirrors, and Sport Front & Rear Fascia. The performance inspired XRS is set off by its newly redesigned Front Grille, Fascia and Rear Bumper in combination with Front and Rear Underbody Spoilers, Fog Lamps, 18" Aluminum Alloy Wheels, Scuff Plates, and XRS Badging.

The 2011 Toyota Matrix will likely receive slight modifications to its grille and front fascia, minor changes to its taillamps, and perhaps new wheel designs. . Revisions to passenger-compartment textures and graphics would be welcome, too. Otherwise, this 2011 Toyota will retain the shape and size the second-generation Matrix sported when it debuted as a 2009 mode. 

That means a slightly disheveled collection of arcs and angles on a vehicle that’s taller than the typical compact car but not as long overall. Matrix’s shape translates to great head room and lots of cargo space, though rear-seat knee clearance is modest. Newer arrivals to the category of hard-to-define mobility boxes tend to be less lengthy still, and taller, too. These include the Kia Soul, Nissan Cube, and, from Toyota’s own youth brand, the Scion xB. Matrix’s competitive set, however, is broad enough to include compact four-door hatchbacks like the Mazda 3 and true compact wagons, like the Hyundai Elantra Tourin.

None of these rivals offers AWD, though. Just 10 percent of Matrix buyers choose it over the standard front-wheel-drive, but having AWD available does qualify Matrix as a sensible on-road alternative to bulkier compact SUVs. One competitor the 2011 Matrix won’t have to contend with is the very vehicle more like it than any other: the Pontiac Vibe. A Matrix with different (and nicer-looking) sheet metal, the Vibe has been discontinued along with the Pontiac brand.

Every 2011 Toyota Matrix will have the brake-override system, which is designed to cut engine power if the accelerator and brake pedals are applied simultaneously. Toyota is poised to make some changes beneath the hood of the 2011 Corolla, and since Matrix shares the same selection of four-cylinder engines, it should receive similar treatment. 

The entry-level 2011 Matrix is likely to again be called the Matrix Standard and should carry on with a 132-horsepower 1.8-liter engine rated at 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque (Think of torque as the force that gets you moving, horsepower as the energy that sustains momentum.) However, the 2011 Toyota Matrix S and sporty 2011 Toyota Matrix XRS models are apt to exchange a 158-horsepower 2.4-liter for a 169-horsepower 2.5-liter. Already used in the midsize Toyota Camry, the 2.5-liter would have only marginally more torque than the 2.4, 167 pound-feet to 162. But the 2.5 is a newer design that should deliver better gas mileage. Fuel economy would further improve if Toyota upgrades the automatic transmission available in the Matrix S and XRS models, from a five-speed to a more efficient six-speed, as in the Camry. 

The automatic used in the 2011 Matrix with the 1.8-liter engine will almost certainly remain a four-speed, for cost-savings. All these models will likely continue with a five-speed manual transmission as standard. They’ll also come with front-wheel drive, which places the weight of the engine over the driven wheels to the benefit of traction in wet conditions. AWD is an alternative exclusive to the Matrix S model. Not intended for off-road use, the system is designed to maximize traction on wet or snowy pavement. It automatically reapportions power to the rear wheels when the fronts begin to slip, then reverts to front-wheel drive when grip is restored. A four-speed automatic has been the only transmission available on AWD Matrix S models. 

Toyota will need to determine if fuel-efficiency gains would offset the added cost of any 2011 Matrix powertrain revisions. But upgrades would help performance, too. Currently, the Standard model can feel slightly underpowered and driving a Matrix really is entertaining only when you combine the XRS with manual transmission. Toyota already enhanced Matrix’s safety equipment for model-year 2010, making an antiskid system – also known as stability control -- standard on every model, not just the XRS.

Toyota will not announce 2011 Matrix prices until shortly before the car goes on sale. But even with a new engine and possible new transmissions, 2011 Matrix prices won’t climb much above model-year 2010 levels. (Base-price estimates in this review take into account the manufacturer’s mandated destination fee. Toyota’s fee for factory-delivered cars was $750 for model-year 2011; Toyotas in some southeastern states are delivered by independent distributors and may carry different destination fees.)

The best-selling model in the 2011 Matrix line should again be the Standard. Estimated base price for the 2011 Toyota Matrix Standard is $17,450 with the five-speed manual transmission and $18,260 with the four-speed automatic.

Expect 2011 Toyota Matrix S pricing to start around $19,500 with manual transmission, $20,700 with automatic. Power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, a household-type power outlet, and a leather-covered steering wheel with audio controls should again be among S-model upgrades over the Matrix Standard. Estimated base price for the Toyota Matrix S AWD is around $21,800.

The 2011 Toyota Matrix XRS prices would start at an estimated $21,840 with manual transmission, $23,100 with automatic. Positioned as the sportiest Matrix, the XRS has included 18-inch tires instead of its stable mates’ 16s or 17s. And the XRS and the AWD S are the only Matrix models with a handling-oriented independent rear suspension instead of a budget-conscious torsion-beam setup.

Returning as key options for the 2011 Matrix should be a Power Package that brings the Standard model close to S-level equipment for around $1,000. Toyota could decide to add cruise control to the 2011 Matrix Standard or S model instead of charging $250 extra as it did for model-year 2010. A power sunroof should continue as an option on all 2011 Matrix models for around $900. The navigation system will probably again be confined to Matrix S and XRS models, where it has been available for about $1,800 and $1,300, respectively.

Mileage estimates for the 2011 Matrix had not been announced in time for this review. But with no expected change in powertrain the 2011 Toyota Matrix Standard’s fuel-economy rating should remain 26/32 mpg city/highway with manual transmission, 25/31 with automatic.

If the 2011 Toyota Matrix S and XRS get the larger engine and it’s coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission instead of a five-speed, expect these models to squeeze out another mile per gallon or two in both city and highway driving compared to their 2010 counterparts, which were rated at 21/29 mpg city/highway. Similarly, an engine and transmission change to the 2011 Matrix S AWD would better its chances of improving the 2010 version’s rating of 20/26 mpg.

Manual transmissions account for a miniscule percentage of Matrix sales but the prospect of improving overall fuel-economy averages could drive Toyota to upgrade from a five-speed manual to a six-speed for the 2011 Matrix S and XRS. That would improve their chances of beating the 2010 versions’ rating of 21/28 mpg.