Super cars confirmed for Seattle Auto Show

Ferrari. Bentley. Maserati. Porsche. Iconic nameplates that will take showgoers from 0-wow, Nov. 1-15 at Qwest Field Event Center.

But wait: The "super cars" on display at the upcoming Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, have some new company:

Introducing the first production Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). The Fikser Karma-one of only four such vehicles in the world--proves fuel-efficient vehicles can still generate the passion and excitement that made people fall in love with cars in the first place. Although the Fisker Karma can reach 60 mph in six seconds and a top speed of 125 mph it can also achieve well over 100 mpg. Carbon emissions are also lower than today's hybrids. The estimated cost of driving the Fisker is about seven cents per mile.

With the Porsche Panamera, the automaker's first-ever four-door sedan, showgoers will see an unprecedented vehicle concept, a four-seat gran turismo offering both dynamic performance and superior elegance all in one. While competing with well-established models in the premium class, the Panamera carves a new niche in terms of performance, driving dynamics and efficiency. This is familiar ground as efficient, high-performance engines, lightweight engineering and optimized aerodynamics have been Porsche core competencies throughout its 60-year history both on and off the race circuits.

The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low curb weight defined the Aston Martin DBS's form and construction. Accordingly, the DBS becomes the first production Aston Martin to make extensive use of ultra-light carbon-fiber body panels.

High levels of performance and control are delivered by the combination of inherent lightweight, near-perfect weight distribution, a supremely powerful and flexible V12 engine, and a performance-honed six-speed transmission, together with new carbon ceramic brakes and an adaptive damper controlled suspension system.

The all-wheel-drive Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 boasts a new direct-injection 5.2-liter V10 that makes 552 horsepower (560 PS in the European system, which accounts for its new label). This "Lambo" claims a 0-60-mph time of less than 3.7 seconds and a top speed in excess of 200 mph.

The Lotus Exige S260 adds lightness and power to push the performance envelope even further. Lotus Founder Colin Chapman says, "Adding power makes you faster on the straights; adding lightness makes you faster everywhere." The new 2009 Lotus Exige S260 does both. Through the extensive use of carbon fiber panels to replace the front lower splitter, front access panels at the base of the windshield, roof, rear engine cover, side air intake ducts and rear wing, the Exige S260 crosses the scales approximately 50 pounds lighter than the S 240. yet with 17 more horsepower.

The improved power-to-weight ratio enables the S260 to rocket through 0 - 60 mph in just 4.0 blurred seconds and Lotus' renowned world-leading chassis dynamics keep the S260 poised through whatever curves you carve it through.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU. Location: Qwest Field Event Center Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Five stars! Top-rated trucks, sport-utes confirmed for Seattle Auto Show

Of the 118 all-new 2010 trucks, sport utilities and minivans Motor Trend reviewed and rated, only 7 earned its prestigious five-star rating-and all will be vying for attention at this year's Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm, and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU. A quick preview of what consumers will see at Qwest Field Event Center, November 11-15:

Jeep Wrangler
You get: Fresh new colors, standard fog lamps and tow hooks enhance its legacy
Kudos from Motor Trend: "A true American classic"

Land Rover LR4
You get: 375 hp-V8 and nifty Gradient Release Control for seamless brake pressure
Kudos: "A thoroughbred through and through"

Mazda CX-9
You get: First in-class blind-spot monitoring system and Bluetooth audio
Kudos: "An SUV with driver appeal"

Mercedes-Benz GL-Class
You get: Ultimate sport-out luxury now with auto-door unlocking and 20-in. wheels
Kudos: "Mercedes' best SUV"

Nissan Xterra
You get: Five-person off-road performer with new interior techno package
Kudos: "Knows how to play dirty"

Subaru Outback
You get: Upgraded power and all-new design with legendary 4WD
Kudos: "Crossing over from the other side"

Toyota Tacoma
You get: Unchanged for '09 (good) for the same price (even better)
Kudos: "Still MVP in the compact pickup league"

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU. Location: Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Multiple choice: Crossovers pass the test for comfort, value

What's driving the increasing popularity of crossovers? Answer: They combine the practicality of an SUV with the handling of a passenger car. In fact, ride comfort, visibility and versatile storage are the soul of the crossovers at this year's Seattle Auto Show. To wit: Tucked inside the previous sentence you'll find one stylish reason why people are eyeing Kia's popular new micro-SUV. A few of the segment leaders at this year's auto show:

By doing so many things right, Honda has built a following for the much-admired Honda CR-V. New tweaks solidify the reputation of the country's best-selling crossover:

• For comfort, the driver's and front passenger's center folding armrests are each wider by 1 inch compared to the previous model.
  Bluetooth HandsFreeLink is now included on models equipped with the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System.
• CRV's city/highway fuel economy rises to 21/28 mpg miles per gallon on 2WD models and 21/27 mpg on models equipped with Real Time 4WD.

More than its quick acceleration and bold, fresh design, Ford Edge wins points for improved fuel economy: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway for the front-wheel drive; 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway for all-wheel drive. Plus, Edge offers the next generation, voice-activated navigation system and the class-exclusive SIRIUS Travel Link, with service free for six months.

A unique new interior package blends Sienna leather-trimmed seats with contrasting stitching on seats, steering wheel and shift knob, along with a dark brushed aluminum center stack pane.

The dramatic design of 2010 Cadillac SRX is sure to stop a lot of people in their tracks. The real, appeal, however, rests under the hood: The V6 engines are the smallest-displacement powerplants Cadillac offers in North America. A new, 3.0L direct injected V-6 engine is standard and delivers 25-highway mpg.

A multi-piece shield grille and Cadillac's iconic vertical headlamps - with light pipe technology and available adaptive forward lighting - are the face of the SRX. They blend into a tightly wrapped, sweeping body that tapers downward at the rear, giving the vehicle a sporty profile.

An integrated center stack houses controls for climate and audio systems, while the navigation system rises from the center of the instrument panel. A signature example of the SRX's attention to detail is the Cadillac script logos in the front door sill plates that illuminate when the doors are opened.

Give the new Kia Soul some points for personality. Soul's low, wide stance is paired with an angled window line, rounded nose and large flared back headlamps, giving it a playful and youthful appearance. With a friendly face and exuberant personality, Soul is perfect for coasting along the beach or cruising downtown city streets, embodying the vehicle's tagline, "a new way to roll."

The beltline rises from the front wheel arch to create a gentle wedge shape and continues under and around the rear side window. The rear is dominated by the vertical rear combination lamps set into the body color panel with clear outer lenses. The body and wheel arch crease line extends around the bumper for a tough, not rough, style matching the look of the front.

Inside the cabin, Soul really shows its power to surprise. With 14 storage zones, Kia's "sport cute" is a personal lounge on wheels.

Attractive pricing starting at $13,300, puts the Soul within reach of its "easy-living, hard working" target market.

The Range Rover Sport reaffirms its status as the most exciting and dynamic member of the Land Rover range with a comprehensive package of engineering and design changes for the 2010 model year. The vehicle's stylish new appearance signals the transformation under the skin, which includes two powerful and efficient new engines -- the LR-TDV6 diesel and LR-V8 5.0-liter supercharged -- enhanced levels of interior craftsmanship and refinement, and significant improvements to both on-road and off-road driving dynamics.

The compact Mercedes-Benz GLK sport utility is the newest member of the automakers' sport utility family that includes the full-size M-Class, the larger GL-Class, the crossover R-Class and the rough-and-tough G-Class.

For 2010 GLK receives new options like a convenient KEYLESS-GO system. Push the button and the doors unlock and the car starts. GLK features sports car-worthy four-wheel independent suspension, and Standard Agility Control suspension provides the benefits of both soft and stiff shock absorbers, each fitted with a hydraulic by-pass piston that acts like a very soft shock absorber to effectively dampen road noise and tire vibration.

A standard roof rack and optional running boards emphasize the car's versatile character. A 3.5-liter V6 engine, a sophisticated seven-speed automatic transmission, 19-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, roof rails and privacy glass are all standard.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU. Location: Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

They're Electric! Tesla Roadster, Arcimoto Pulse, Wheego Whip

Automobile magazine calls it "America's most important sports car," upon its debut. Today, two years later, the Tesla Roadster has put a charge into the Puget Sound area, making Seattle one of the automaker's most lucrative markets.

The two Teslas on display at this year's Seattle Auto Show are each powered by 6,831 laptop computer batteries that drive a 3-phase, 4-pole AC electric motor. With a 0 to 60 mph acceleration of 3.9 seconds, a 13,000 rpm redline, and the fastest top gear acceleration of any production car tested by Car & Driver magazine in 2007, combined with an EPA rating of 135 MPG equivalent, the Tesla Roadster is unique in providing super car performance at twice the energy efficiency of the best hybrids.

The highly acclaimed Roadster--faster than a Porsche and twice as energy efficient as a Toyota Prius--is the first production EV to travel more than 200 miles per charge and the first US- and EU-certified Lithium-Ion battery electric vehicle. With an estimated range of 244 miles per charge and zero tailpipe emissions, it offers supercar performance with a clean conscience.

Fresh from its rollout in Portland, Oregon, the Arcimoto Pulse electric vehicle makes its national auto show debut in Seattle. The three-wheeled Pulse features a fully enclosed body, familiar steering and foot controls, crumple zones and roll cage for safety, power windows and locks, iPod/MP3 player compatibility, cargo area, keyless entry and stunning acceleration. Pulse receives a full charge in six hours and has a 50-100 mile range. Cost of driving 40 emission-free miles is about $1.

Adios, freeways. Ola, local neighborhood streets. Showgoers who want a low-speed electric vehicle that goes 25 mph and costs pennies to charge will be among the first in the country to see the Wheego Whip. The two-passenger coupe has a CARB certified range of 55 miles and a real world range of 40 miles. Wheego's mission statement, like the Whip's msrp of $18,995 price, is unabashedly modest: "We don't want aspire to be the biggest car company, or make the fastest cars. We want our customers to be happy and smart advocates for electric cars."

World's first luxury plug-in hybrid electric vehicle coming to Seattle Auto Show, Nov. 11-15

Fisker Karma, the first luxury plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is coming to the Seattle Auto Show, Nov. 11-15, at Qwest Field Event Center.

The Fisker Karma on display at this year's auto show is one of only four such vehicles in existence. Deposits are being taken for pre-orders by smart center Seattle. Deliveries are set for June 2010.

The Karma has a range of 50 emission-free miles on a full charge of its Lithium-ion battery, and a total range of 300 miles thanks to an on-board generator turned by a traditional, yet efficient 260-horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine. The car has a top speed of 125 mph and achieves 100 miles per gallon.

The Karma has a range of 50 emission-free miles on a full charge of its Lithium-ion battery, and a total range of 300 miles thanks to an on-board generator turned by traditional but efficient 260 hp, four-cylinder gasoline engine. Combined with two powerful electric motors, these components make up the Q-DRIVE® powertrain exclusive to all Fisker automobiles. Q-DRIVE® delivers the ultimate combination of performance, range and efficiency.

"More than 60 percent of America's 200 million drivers travel less than 50 miles per day. With Q-DRIVE, the Karma can do that without using a drop of gas," says Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO Quantum Technologies.

The striking design of the Karma is no coincidence. The car's namesake and company CEO, Henrik Fisker, was design director for Aston Martin and president and CEO of BMW's DesignworksUSA.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, courtesy of AutoTrader.com Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Four big announcements fuel anticipation of Seattle Auto Show, Nov. 11-15

With opening day now less than two months way, the Seattle Auto Show is announcing the most important lineup of alternative-fuel vehicles in its history:
• Tesla Roadster, the world's first electric roadster that bolts from 0-60 mph in under four seconds
• Fisker Karma, the first-ever plug-in luxury hybrid that achieves 100 mpg, and one of only four in existence
• Third-generation Toyota Prius whose solar roof powers the car's air conditioning system
• All-new Honda Insight, at around $20,000 (msrp) arguably he most affordable hybrid sedan on the market.

The auto show is the most popular, once-a-year consumer automotive event in the Puget Sound featuring 250 all-new 2010 cars, trucks, vans and SUVs, plus exotics, concepts, motorcycles and electric bicycles for every budget and every driving need.

Highlights of some of the most popular new models, including the all-new Chevy Camaro, Audi R8 and Ford Taurus SHO, are on the show's web site, www.seattleautoshow.com, The auto show will feature the latest "super cars" from Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lotus, Maserati, Rolls-Royce and Spyker.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, courtesy of AutoTrader.com Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

First-ever four-door Porsche confirmed for Seattle Auto Show, Nov. 11-15

This year's Seattle Auto Show, Nov. 11-15 at Qwest Field Event Center, will showcase the Porsche Panamera, the first-ever four-door performance car from the legendary German automaker.

The Panamera is Porsche's fourth model line, joining the 911, Boxster/Cayman and Cayenne model series. It is the first premium car with an automatically shifting double-clutch transmission to feature an engine start/stop system that saves fuel and reduces emissions by turning the engine off when it is not needed, such as sitting at a stop light, for example. All engines have advanced and fuel-efficient Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), as well.

From the beginning, the Panamera project raised significant technical challenges for Porsche as it presented several engineering conflicts of interest; it had to have silhouette of a coupe, yet offer four full-size seats with a generous interior space and luggage room; it must set the performance standard in its class, yet offer best in-class fuel efficiency; it should provide Porsche driving dynamics and performance and the comfort of a luxury sedan; and it had to have a driver's cockpit typical of a sports car and a top-quality and luxurious interior with the equipment expected in the premium sedan segment.

The Panamera also comes with a highly functional, variable luggage compartment. The rear seat backrests tilt forward individually, providing up to 44.6 cubic feet of luggage capacity.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, courtesy of AutoTrader.com Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Seattle Auto Show at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will give consumers a once-a-year chance to see and touch hundreds of all-new 2010 vehicles for everyday driving needs and every budget. The show, Nov. 11-15, at Qwest Field Event Center, offers the most popular and highest-rated fuel-saving hybrids, crossovers, trucks and vans, plus all-new electrics, rare exotics and one-of-a-kind concepts, including:

• 51-mpg Toyota Prius, with solar panels powering its new ventilation system
• Tesla Roadster, the electrifying sports car the goes 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds
• All-new Chevy Camaro, Honda Insight, Ford Taurus SHO and Land Rover L4
• Porsche Panamera, the legendary automaker's first-ever four-door sedan
• Fisker Karma, the first plug-in hybrid luxury sedan, one of only four in the world

These and many more vehicles, plus links to 46 participating automakers, are available at www.seattleautoshow.com.

"Everything's new at this year's auto show. It's a new world, with new technology and new choices," says show manager Jim Hammond. "The auto show is the best opportunity to explore, compare and choose from hundreds of today's new vehicles that offer increased mileage, greater safety and continued dependability."

All showgoers can enter to win a 2010 Ford Fusion donated by AutoNation and apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU, by taking advantage of loan rates as low as 4.24% APR* Plus, play "Match-It" and enter for a chance to win $50,000 towards your next car on AutoTrader.com

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Location: Qwest Field Event Center. Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

*4.24% APR based on BECU membership, 60-months or less loan term and includes .50% auto event and .50% automatic payment rate reductions. Rates offered will be based on length of BECU membership, applicant's creditworthiness, payment method and repayment period. Financing subject to BECU credit approval.

Just How Big is the Seattle Auto Show?

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Location: Qwest Field Event Center. Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Show at a Glance

All-new 2010 Toyota Prius headed to Seattle Auto Show

With 50 combined city/highway mpg and solar-powered ventilation, the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius has just been confirmed for the Seattle Auto Show, Now. 11-15, at Qwest Field Event Center. The show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, is the one largest once-a-year opportunity for people to see, compare the biggest annual display of fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans and go-anywhere trucks in the Northwest.

Celebrated as the benchmark for cars of the future, the Prius has delivered superior fuel economy and ultra-low emissions to more than 1.2 million owners worldwide for more than 10 years.

The midsize third-generation 2010 Prius offers even better mileage ratings, enhanced performance, and innovative design features. It is quieter, roomier, and equipped with advanced standard and available features such as a moonroof with solar panels, four driving modes, Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) and steering wheel touch controls that display on the instrument panel.

"The Prius has evolved with our customers over the past 10 years and is now more things to more people," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "It's environmental, innovative, and practical. It's an everyday car for everyday use, and we believe that its new features will appeal to returning owners, while at the same time attract buyers who are looking for innovative technology with a hybrid powertrain."

An available sliding glass moonroof is packaged with solar panels, located over the rear seating area, that power a new ventilation system. This solar powered ventilation system uses an electrically powered air circulation fan that does not require engine assist. The system prevents the interior air temperature from rising while the vehicle is parked, making the cool-down time shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Location: Qwest Field Event Center. Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Tesla Roadster Announced for Seattle Auto Show

The upcoming Seattle Auto Show will be electric. Literally.

The revolutionary Tesla Roadster, that has generated an extraordinary response from people inspired by the vision that beautiful, high performance cars could generate zero-emissions and burn no oil, is sure to be a top draw at the auto show, Nov. 11-15, at Qwest Field Event Center. The show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, is the one largest once-a-year opportunity for people to see, compare the biggest annual display of fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans and go-anywhere trucks in the Northwest.

With a 0 to 60 mph acceleration of 3.9 seconds, a 13,000 rpm redline, and the fastest top gear acceleration of any production car tested by Car & Driver magazine in 2007, combined with an EPA rating of 135 MPG equivalent, the Tesla Roadster is unique in providing super car performance at twice the energy efficiency of the best hybrids.

Less than 2 years later, this vision has become a reality as Tesla Motors begins production of this breakthrough electric vehicle. The 2008 model year is sold out and Tesla is currently taking reservations for the 2009 model year Tesla Roadster. To date, over 900 Tesla Roadsters have been reserved in total.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Location: Qwest Field Event Center. Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.

Power and Style! Chevy Camaro headlines auto show

The wait is over. After a seven-year hiatus, the all-new Chevrolet Camaro is coming to the Seattle Auto Show, Nov. 11-15, at Qwest Field Event Center. The show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, is the one largest once-a-year opportunity for people to see, compare the biggest annual display of fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans and go-anywhere trucks in the Northwest.

The all-new Camaro, offered in LS, LT and SS versions, features a pair of 6.2L V-8s, including one with Active Fuel Management that helps improve fuel economy by shutting down four cylinders during certain light-load driving conditions. It achieves EPA-rated highway fuel economy of 25 mpg.

With a design that is very close to the original concept, the 2010 Camaro acknowledges its heritage from the first-generation Camaro, produced from 1967 through 1969.

Camaro's 3.6L direct injection (DI) V-6, standard on LS and LT models, producing 304 horsepower (227 kW) and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, delivers more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions - including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.
Horsepower for the L99 is 400 at 5,900 rpm and torque is 410 lb.-ft. at 4,300 rpm. All Camaro models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

The Seattle Auto Show, presented by State Farm and sponsored by AutoTrader.com and BECU, will feature hundreds of new 2010 vehicles, including fuel-efficient hybrids, versatile vans, go-anywhere trucks, plus energy-wise electrics, eye-catching exotics and rare concepts at Qwest Field Event Center, Nov. 11-15. Apply for on-the-spot financing from BECU! Location: Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-8:30 pm, Sat. 10 am - 9 pm, Sun. 10 am - 5 pm. Tickets: Adults $11, Seniors $9, Children 12 and under, free, with a paid adult, compliments of AutoTrader.com. Parking: Qwest Field Event Center, Union Station and nearby lots. Online: www.seattleautoshow.com Info: 206-542-3551.