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It's pretty safe to say that Toyota is way ahead of the game when it comes to hybrids. Whether or not hybrids are the way of the future certainly remains to be seen, but as of right now, no one makes a better hybrid than Toyota. Because Toyota got into the hybrid game early (1997 in Japan), Toyota has been refining the concept longer than anyone else, and it shows.

It's pretty safe to say that Toyota is way ahead of the game when it comes to hybrids. Whether or not hybrids are the way of the future certainly remains to be seen, but as of right now, no one makes a better hybrid than Toyota. Because Toyota got into the hybrid game early (1997 in Japan), Toyota has been refining the concept longer than anyone else, and it shows.

It has been quite some time since Ford of Europe has done a design study on its own. The Ford Visos design study represents Ford of Europe's first such effort in several years.

This long-awaited new entry for Seat was previewed by yet another concept, the MPV or Altea Prototipo, at the 2003 Frankfurt auto show. The concept, as well as the production model going on sale in mid-2004, is based on the new-for-2004MY Golf V. Seat expects the Altea to become one of its main products, alongside the Ibiza and Leon.

Ever since the introduction of the new 9-3, Saab traditionalists have been screaming about the lack of a traditional hatchback model. Despite this, sales of the new 9-3 are far exceeding those of the old model, meaning that Saab's decision to offer the car as a notchback sedan was obviously a wise one.

The C-Airlounge five-door hatchback concept indicates the direction of the long-awaited C6. It also indicates that Citroen may launch a bodystyle to compete against the new-for-2004MY Opel/Vauxhall Signum. The interior features an ingenious modular seating system for maximum use of space, as well as a new approach to interior lighting systems.

For over a decade Audi has shown concept supercars at numerous auto shows, from the all-aluminum Avus (which foreshadowed Audi's extensive use of aluminum spaceframes) to the stunning Auto Union-inspired Rosemeyer. Still, Audi has yet to bring one to actual production.

As Volkswagen AG's entry level brand, Skoda really should try to shoot for younger buyers, and that's precisely what the Roomster aims to do. It's commendable that the brand isn't trying to appeal to these buyers by building an all-too-cliche sports or sporty car, but rather a fun and useful vehicle that can fit younger buyers' gear and lifestyles. There is no word yet on production possibilities, but such a vehicle seems like it would be a perfect addition to this rising brand.

While Opel still offers the venerable Opel Omega in Europe, sales have tailed off greatly over the last few years. First of all, the current generation was introduced for the 1994 model year, and second, demand for mainstream brand E-Segment cars in Europe has decreased greatly.