Although not yet named, Dodge and Fiat are hard at work developing a new platform known as Compact Wide, on which the automakers plan to build a combined one million units annually by 2014. Here’s a rendering based on a leaked computer image that previews the first Dodge to ride on the Compact Wide platform. 

According to an earlier report by Automotive News, Fiat and Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is planning to use the new Compact Wide architecture in order to reach one million units globally by 2014. Chrysler and Fiat have been very quiet about what the models will be that utilize the compact Wide platform, but nothing can be kept a secret thanks to the internet, so leaked images appeared.

“In developing the Compact architecture, we looked for best-in-class performances in terms of handling and steering response, weight-to-power ratio; noise, vibration and harshness, active and passive safety,” Stefano Re Fiorentin, Fiat’s head of advanced engineering told Automotive News.

Details of the new platform are expectedly still sparse, but Chrysler did release that the new Compact Wide platform will utilize 84 percent high and ultrahigh strength steel – up from only 65 percent in Fiat’s previous C-platform.

Although Chrysler hasn’t directly confirmed which engines will be found in the Dodge variation of the Compact Wide platform, but based on earlier reports of the future engine lineup, we expect a new 1.4-liter unit as the base engine, with a turbocharged version of the same engine as a premium or sport offering. The new 1.4-liter engine is Fiat-sourced, known as FIRE, and contains Multiair technology. Fiat coined the term FIRE referring to “fully integrated robotized engine,” which describes the fully automated engine production process.

The 1.4-liter I-4 cylinder engines will feature 4 valves per cylinder and utilize fully variable-valve actuation, or FVVA, which is commonly known as Multiair. The Multiair technology helps to increase power by as much as 10 percent, increase torque by as much as 15 percent and reduce emissions and fuel consumption by up to 10 percent. The naturally aspirated engine is good for 100 horsepower and 95 lb-ft., while the turbocharged variant receives a significant bump to 170 horsepower and 170 lb-ft.

Chrysler has not released when it intends to bring a Compact Wide-based model to market, but we expect it within a two year period at the latest. Marchionne did indicate that they expect to sell 700,000 Chrysler group vehicles per year on this platform, and 300,000 in Europe by 2014.

Renault thought to make its little Clio more attractive, so the company’s UK division revived the Clio S formula from the beginning of the 90’s and applied it to the new model. I have to say I like how the Clio S turned out.

Exterior cosmetic additions  include the white Clio S trademark 16-inch Polar alloy wheels, a white front bumper insert, white rear spoiler and side mirrors, tinted windows and tailgate and cool racing stripes on the roof and sides of the car.

The white sport theme continues on the inside of the Clio S, with a white central console, white inserts in the dashboard and dials and white “S” stitched into the upholstry. The new Renault Clio S fans have three different engines to choose from: 1.2-liter petrol/75HP, a 1.2-liter turbo /100HP and a 1.5-liter diesel/86HP.

Photos after the jump

via CarScoop

Remember when Focus first debuted? It was a breath of fresh air, changing your idea of what American hatchbacks may mean. It was light on its feet with a brilliant chassis, a zippy and frugal Zetec engine, a crisp manual transmission and enough personality and quality inside and out the cars sold by the boatload. Then things started to go downhill. Materials quality was reduced, cost cutting removed sound deadening and the car began to feel chintzy. The 2005 refresh turned an interesting car into an ugly one and then in 2008 Ford really stabbed enthusiasts in the heart. While the European Focus was winning nearly every award on the continent, they shoveled a hideous, cheap feeling, coarse, terrible driving vehicle wearing the Focus name. The car boasted fantastic new technology unprecedented in the segment, but it was a disappointment to say the least.

But now say “Hello!” to this sexy stylish 2010 Focus!

The new Focus has a packed with high technology and handsome shapes, grippy seats, excellent door coverings and with plenty of room all around. It’s got the Sync system of course but also the new MyFord system and Sony audio, passive keyless entry, rain sensing wipers, a park assist system, and rear camera. The car rides on an all-new chassis made of high-strength steel and designed with Ford’s Trinity crash structure. They’re targeting award-winning ride and handling and doing it with electric power steering, dynamic cornering control and a torque vectoring differential. You’ll be able to get a huge set of 235/40R19 tires, that’s plenty of grip.

Under the hood there’s a direct injection 2.0-liter four-cylinder with twin independent variable cam timing producing “better than 150 HP.” It’s paired with a manual six speed or the Powershift dual clutch automatic.

It makes you grin ear to ear, doesn’t it?

Photos after the jump

12►