The International Engine of the Year jury has named the winner of this year’s top honors, and it goes to the Fiat 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine, the engine that Chrysler is hoping will put them back on the map.

Since its introduction in 1995, the Sportage compact utility vehicle (CUV) has undergone numerous updates and has become one of Kia Motor Company’s mainstay models. With its fresh styling and updated features, all indications are that the 2011 model will continue the tradition.

The turmoil of the last couple of years has left an indelible mark on the auto industry and led to the demise of a number of household name brands including Pontiac, Saturn, Hummer and, most recently, Mercury. Against that backdrop, it Alfa Romeo celebrated its 100th anniversary on June 24.

The 2011 Accord sedan offers a new look and some impressive new features over the current model which was introduced in model-year 2008.

Several auto industry forecasters are predicting this month’s new vehicle sales to be as much as 17% higher than a year ago driven, in large part, by higher than expected fleet sales.

For 2011, Mazda Motor Corporation is adding the redesigned Mazda2 subcompact to its model lineup.

General Motors Company is preparing to sell 20% of the U.S. Treasury Department’s stake in the company through an initial public offering.

Chinese automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group is partnering with Chinese regional asset manager Daqing State Asset Operation Company in its bid to acquire Ford Motor Company’s Volvo unit for a reported $1.8 billion.

With Hyundai now enjoying double-digit sales increases, focusing on improving sales processes and dealer images has become the Korean automaker’s No. 1 priority.

CEO Nick Reilly said Opel will work hard to rebuild its image and could possibly return to profitability as early as next year.