Here’s a sneak peak at five hot numbers just around the bend!

• Nissan Skyline GT-R

  Nissan gave the world a big glimpse of its keenly anticipated 2008 Skyline GT-R with this carefully constructed show car. They want to maintain the car’s mystique for awhile, since the production car won’t debut until late 2007. Besides, the GT-R development team is still camped out fine-tuning what is sure to be the most exciting new Nissan to come along in years. Yet there is plenty to glean from the muscular show car, which features the Skyline GT-R’s signature four round taillamps as well as four big-bore mufflers. Shaped as much for aerodynamic efficiency and functionality as for awesome road presence, the GT-R should whet the appetite and please the masses.

• Cadillac CTS

  The 2008 CTS continues as Cadillac’s entry-level rear-wheel drive sedan, but is two inches wider to accommodate an optional all-wheel drive system-a first for the mid-size Caddy. The new CTS rides on the same 113-inch wheelbase of the outgoing model, but is larger in all other dimensions. Features include a 3.6-liter variable-valve-timing engine and an optional direct-injection version that develops 300 horsepower with reduced emissions and improved fuel economy. All 2008 CTSes have six-speed transmissions, a strut-tower brace, as well as revised suspension, brakes, and steering. It also has full iPod integration, with USB and auxiliary input jacks located in the center console. Options will include swiveling headlights, hand-stitched leather, keyless remote start, a Bose surround system, and DVD-based navigation.

• BMW M3

  After more than a decade with six-cylinder engines, the M3 in its next iteration will move up to a V-8. The new, high-revving V-8 will displace 4.0 liters. The last M3 made do with "only" 333 hp, but the new M3 should have more than 400 ponies on tap, giving the Audi RS4 something to worry about. The sequential-manual transmission may go from six speeds to seven. Expect it in late 2007. Also expect to lose a serious amount of sleep thinking about this car until then.

• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

  The X might denote an X rating--for the meanest, rawest Evo ever made. Because it would be a shame not to use the new Outlander SUV’s lovely magnesium-alloy paddle shifters, an automated manual transmission will be offered alongside a traditional 5-speed manual box. Naturally, the Evo will be driven by all four wheels, feature active steering, and a myriad of electronic sensors. Mitsubishi promises this will be the "largest leap in overall capability between two generations of the Evolution."

• Jaguar XF

  For Jaguar sedan design, time stopped in the 1960s. Today’s X-type and XJ sedans both follow in the tire tracks of the first XJ, which debuted in 1968. But times are changing and the XF is the first indication of where they are heading.

  Designers characterize the design as "twenty percent exaggerated"-particularly in its low roofline, its wide track, and its pumped-up details. Interiors will use wood as both a structural and a decorative element. Jaguar cabins will be styled to emphasize their width, and technology will be discreet.

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