Mitsubishi appears to be considering three names for the North American version of its Airtrek compact SUV. The candidates are ASX, as used on the earlier concept; Outlander and Rogue. Meanwhile, BMW may introduce a new model name for its Z3 replacement. BMW's practice has been for sedan models to begin with an odd number (1-series, 3-series, 5-series and 7-series) while specialist coupés begin with even numbers (6-series and 8-series). Beginning with the Z1 from BMW Technic, the firm's roadsters have used odd numbers. The Z8 seems to mark a change in this convention, and the replacement for the Z3 may debut as the Z4.

General Motors — President and CEO Rick Wagoner, right, and Chevrolet division General Manager Kurt Ritter debuted the production Chevrolet SSR as part of the festivities for The Woodward Dream Cruise Friday, August 17, 2001 in Birmingham, MI. The vehicle is slated to begin production in late 2002.

GM announced earlier today that its Signum II concept car (previously shown only in concept drawings) will be unveiled at the Frankfurt International Motor Show next month. The concept hints at the ideas and solutions that will shape the face of future Opel and Vauxhall models. The replacement for the Omega in is expected to closely resemble the Signum II. Also debuting in the Signum II is the prototype of a new 4.3 litre GDI V8 engine. The 'Global XV8' aluminium concept unit, developed by GM Powertrain in the US, generates around 300 PS with maximum torque of 400 Nm. This seems to be an new program (related to the Gen IV truck engines) that might eventually replace the LS1 globally. There is a five-speed automatic gearbox. Signum II has a top speed of 156 mph and fuel consumption is about 29 mpg.

At a joint press conference this morning GM and Suzuki announced production details of the 1999 YGM-1 concept. The car will be called 'Cruze', and will be sold in Asian markets, starting with Japan, as a Chevrolet. Based on Suzuki's new small car platform, it will be available with either a 1.3 liter or 1.5 liter engine and a choice of front- or all-wheel-drive. Production will begin after its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. GM's Australian subsidiary Holden will import the vehicle from early 2002.

General Motors continues its review of future model programs in the wake of the current market downturn. Earlier reports claimed that the "Epsilon-wide" programs (GMT390 "Signia" and GMT391 "Banner") had been suspended. Further reports now indicate that another Epsilon-based program, the joint Subaru Lambda platform, has also been suspended. This program would have produced a hybrid SUV (GMT960) and pickup (GMT965).