Mitsubishi has announced a 2009 model year update to its Lancer small car line-up, including the introduction of a new, range-topping 2.4-litre 'Aspire' sedan. Mitsubishi thinks that the Lancer Aspire will appeal to those who are downsizing from mid-size or large cars and are searching for a more economical daily driver that still has a little bite.

Unlike most major manufacturers who have experienced falling sales in the wake of the current fuel crisis, Subaru has gone from strength to strength in the U.S. market, where it has experienced strong growth for the past year. To build on that success, Subaru is expanding its all-wheel-drive Impreza range, with the addition of several non-turbocharged sedan models to the lineup.

The Holden Barina, based on the Korean-built Daewoo Kalos, was first released to almost universal criticism for its abysmal scores in crash tests, as well as its lack of even the most basic of safety features such as anti-lock brakes. Now, Holden has given its Barina subcompact a new look and feel, while also upgrading safety to quell concerns.

Audi’s booth at this year’s Paris Motor Show will be a busy one, with several new and facelifted models taking the stage. Joining the new RS6 Sedan will be the mid-cycle facelift for the standard A6 Sedan and Avant models. Among the list of updates planned for the new lineup is a range of more efficient engines, significant suspension refinements, the addition of a number of safety assistance systems, and a new-generation ‘MMI’ in-car computer interface.

Saab confirmed at this week’s London Motor Show that it would be focusing on more compact designs for its future models as the most appropriate response to concerns about the environment, fuel prices and urban congestion. The move could be especially good news for Australia, since the current Saab lineup is somewhat limited in its range. Adding a small yet versatile platform to the mix could offer city dwellers another choice in the sport premium segment.

The all-new Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, or Galant Fortis as it’s known in its home market, was unveiled today in Japan. Named for the company’s in-house tuner arm, the Ralliart offers significantly upgraded performance over its predecessor thanks to the addition of all-wheel drive and many other bits of high-tech gear. This places it firmly in contention with Subaru's WRX - something the old model could never claim. With its expected low starting price, it could be one of the performance bargains of the year.

After a painfully long wait, the next generation of Mitsubishi's giant-killing Lancer Evolution series arrives on Australian shores this month.

Now, in its 10th generation, the new Evo X has been driving fans and enthusiasts crazy with anticipation, but on July 21, the first cars will be available for purchase across the country.

The annual NRMA car theft ratings have been announced for 2008 and have been compiled using a host of different statistics including real-world theft figures and the number of anti-theft devices, break-in resistance features and vehicle identity systems installed. An important finding was that by simply adding a $2 self-voiding identification label, car manufacturers could greatly improve theft deterrence.

The automotive power wars had largely been declared over by carmakers earlier in the year as fuel prices hit record highs and emissions targets found new lows, but Audi’s RS6 is proof the original claim may have been a little premature. Whether it’s the RS6 Avant or the upcoming sedan that’s being considered, the 432kW twin-turbocharged 5.0-litre V10 engine at its heart is living testament to the continuation of the effort for more power. These latest spy photos show Audi will be saving a few minor updates for the RS6 sedan due later this year.