Most Anticipated Vehicles of 2011

Chevrolet Cruze

Currently taken the Asia and Europe by storm, the Cruze replaces the Chevy Cobalt which is clearly not up to scratch. The Cruze presents a more refined interior and better handling. Two four-cylinder engines are offered, including a 1.4-liter turbocharged version that will get 40 mpg with a manual transmission.

Chevrolet Spark

The Spark is a sporty entry-level vehicle crafted by GM Daewoo Auto & Technology, GM’s Korean subsidiary. It's part of a wave of new small cars from GM. This is due in the U.S. later next year.

Ford Focus

Designed in Europe, this next-generation Focus is anticipated to be a far better edition of the American version that's been sold here over the past decade. It'll boast of a direct-injection four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission for improved fuel economy. This will roll out dealership in early 2011.

Ford Explorer

This iconic sport-utility has been revamped on a car-like, unibody platform instead of a truck-based chassis. And it's been outfitted with new engines, including a turbocharged, direct-injection Ecoboost engine that promises a 30% improvement in fuel economy. It will go on sale early next year.

Fiat 500

This bulb-shaped cute compact from Fiat is one of the windfalls of the Italian carmaker's part in saving Chrysler. After a 30-year hiatus, Fiat plans to return to the U.S. market starting early next year.

Nissan Juke

This crossover is intended as an SUV version of the compact and fuel-efficient Versa hatchback. This targets the young car buyers. It offers optional luxury features like push-button start, leather seats, power sunroof and a navigation system.

Kia Optima

Following its larger Korean sister, Hyundai, Kia's vehicles are gaining more popularity because of its edgy designs and reliability. This redesigned mid-sized sedan shares a platform with the hot-selling Hyundai Sonata, which is getting rave reviews from automotive critics. It will be on sale this fall, with an exciting hybrid model arriving early 2011.

BMW X1

This baby SUV from BMW is based on the 1-series compact. It slots in below the redesigned X3, which has just started production at BMW's recently expanded factory in South Carolina. The X1 would be a tough contender in the small luxury crossover market. This will be out early next year.

Hyundai Equus

This $60,000 luxury sedan is the biggest offering yet for the Korean carmaker, which has continuously gained better reputation over the past decade. While it doesn't fit the trend of small fuel-efficient cars, it's still an interesting car to watch. The Equus will try to be pitted against the Mercedes S-class and the Lexus LS. Basing from Hyundai's success to date, the Equus is surely to watch out for.

Mini Countryman

This Mini is actually not so mini after all as this is meant to achieve an SUV look and is the largest mini to date. It offers practicality as it is more spacious and is an all-wheel-drive. This will roll out “huge” early next year.

Volkswagen Jetta

This redesigned Jetta is part of the first wave of a renewed assault by Volkswagen in the U.S. market. It comes with a competitive base price that starts around $16,000. This will be coming next month in dealerships.

Scion IQ

This two-door micro-car from Toyota's youth brand aims to attract the urban dwellers who spend most of their time dashing around the city or looking for a place to park. It is similar with the size of the Smart ForTwo but is better version in terms of its design though still a bit unusual or exotic in style. Well if you are into mens exotic suits, this might just be the perfect car to complement your character.