I don't need to tell you how many problems the automotive industry has had in recent years, but despite it's plagues, there is a glimmer of good news. Ford has announced an all new 2011 Ford Explorer, which more importantly, will be built in Chicago creating close to 1,200 new jobs.

Production will being in 4th quarter of 2010 and bring a relief to automotive workers needing jobs in the Chicago area. In addition, the retooling of the Chicago plant, along with updates, will cost roughly $400 million a healthy shot into the industries arm.

As far as the 2011 Ford Explorer is concerned, Explorer enthusiasts will love the more fuel efficient redesign. The concept of the 2011 Explorer was shown back in 2008 at the Detroit Auto Show, but I'm sure the final product will not be nearly as concepty. Yes, concepty is a word, I just invented it. Check out the concept 2011 Ford Explorer below and some 2011 Spy Pics as well, which tell a much more believable tale of what we can expect out of Chicago late this year.

A few weeks ago there was a picture found of the upcoming 2012 Ford Ranger.  Of course, with the camo it's hard to tell exactly what it is, but according to experts it's what will eventually be the production Ranger small size pickup truck.

Originally there was talk of Ford ending production of the Ranger in 2009, but has since been postponed till 2011.  Perhaps the production of the upcoming and radically redesigned 2012 Ranger will be produced somewhere other than the US.  At any rate, just glad to see car manufacturers planning this far ahead.

Looks like the covers have finally came off of the all new Porsche Panamera.  To me it looks like a confused station wagon and possibly the love child of a Dodge Charger and Subaru Outback.  But hey, who am I to question Porsche and their design and engineering team.

I'll let the photos below speak for themselves.

In anticipation of the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show the Ford Mustang has been making a few appearances and the latest shows it all wrapped up.  But, if you are like me then you appreciate any little sneak peak you may get, just to wet your appetite.

2010 Mustang

2010 Mustang

Many of the Ford faithful have been eagerly anticipating what changes may be coming to the 2010 Mustang model year.  Afterall there is going to be plenty of competition on the market, the Challenger which has already been released and the upcoming redesigned Chevy Camaro.  Certain bulges mean a lot to some fanatics and what may be hiding under that camo dress may be something a bit more radical than anticipated.

Thanks to jhamilton03 for the great spy pics of the upcoming Mustang.  Be sure to check out his full album of the 2010 Mustang at photobucket.

Audi does a terrific job of keeping Audi spy pics off of the web, but here is a glimpse of what the 2010 Audi A7 car will look like. Obviously these Audi Spy Shots don't do it justice, unless you like your high end automobiles draped in paper bags. ;0

Audi A4 B6 02 05 Lower Front Fog Light Side Grille New    US $1.00

100W H7 Super White HID Xenon Bulbs 96 07 AUDI A4 20T    US $2.00

JDM YELLOW XENON HID H1 FOG LIGHT AUDI CABRIOLET 94 98    US $3.00

Expect more of the same for the 09 BMW 7 Series, at least for the basics, it's in the engine options that it gets real exciting.  Not only will you 'reportedly' be able to get the BMW 7 Series in V8 and V12 trim, but also an alternative fuel option as well.  Generally speaking expect an Electric Hybrid type motor available in the 09 BMW.

Check out the 09 BMW 7 Series Spy Photos below:

The newly redesigned 2009 Jaguar XK has recently been spotted in this spy pic in England.  There are some different styling cues to be aware of, which include changes with the XK8 and XKR.  Sorry engine buffs, only cosmetic changes to this latest redesign from Jaguar.

Don't fret, these changes would make even Austin Power's pants tight.