Intersections: All things Z

Z into the future

Nissan has plans for a dazzling new Z. The 2010 Nissan 370Z will go on sale in early 2009, Car and Driver reports. The magazine states that the model will still be "relatively" affordable and gets a total revamping that creates a new version that is "wider, lighter and more powerful." Look for a potent 3.7-liter V-6 engine that will crank upwards of 330 horsepower. Noteworthy technology? Nissan plans a possible seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox for the new Z. No word yet on price.

CR-Z into the future, too

Honda has plans for a new hybrid, the 2010 Honda CR-Z, "the spiritual successor to the CRX we loved so much when Reagan and George the First were in the Oval Office," as Car and Driver recently mused. The model is intended as an affordable, sporty two-seater that operates with a hybrid system to boost fuel efficiency. One caution, though: The CR-Z has already been approved for the Japanese market, but it still hasn't gotten the green light for U.S. sales. If it does, expect the car to be available in 2010 for less than $20,000.

No Z, just zoom

Mazda's 2009 Mazda6 is getting a total makeover, says Motor Trend (look for a review of the redesigned Mazda6 in tomorrow's Star Tribune Cars section). The sporty, midsize sedan remains a front-drive car but will be larger than previous versions. It will go on sale this fall for about $20,000.

How about one more Z?

For 2009, Lincoln's MKZ is getting a thorough face-lift, reports Edmunds.com. "The midsize MKZ sedan has suffered an identity crisis since it arrived in 2007, as it endured continued styling tweaks and a name change, from Zephyr to MKZ, just one year into its life span...[the new design] on the MKZ will help create a more focused direction for the Lincoln brand." This 2009 MKZ face-lift coincides with similar changes to its Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan siblings.