I have heard on Driving Sports web site that we are suppose to get both the Abarth and the Abarth Essess. Its basically Pininfarina (Owner of Fiat, Alfa Romeo, Ferrari) saying to BMW-Mini to kiss their ass in the Sub-Compact Performance Hatchback segment... and why not have that over here with our wide open roadways? If performance cars are still selling, and Hatches are popular, why not?

Also, my friend at the local Ford dealership has heard a rumor from a rep from Detroit that Ford is planning on selling a version of the Ford Focus RS here in the states. Though it might not be as powerful, the American Ford Focus RS is suppose to keep the FWD base, add a wide body kit and 225 wide tires on 18" lightweight alloy wheels. The power plant is a 2.0L DOHC Turbo 4-cylinder engine (already being produced in the 2011 Ford Edge) and producing 238 bhp, and 242 lb-ft torque matted to a 6-speed manual transmission. Though not as powerful as the European version, it is also priced to compete with the entry level Subaru Impreza WRX at around $24,000... which is a bit pricy for a compact hatch and still being FWD, but it allows a great bang for the buck for those not wanting the big and heavy Ford Mustang.