Ford Focus.  The long-awaited replacement for the Lynx will slot into the Ford passenger car lineup.  Unmatched razor-sharp handling and responsive engines will be the main selling points of this compact sedan and hatchback family.  Photos of the US version have just been released (above), but we expect that the European versions will have sharper detailing.  Wish list: We hope the Focus will have the option for the high-torque 1.8 TDCi diesel, or the 212-bhp turbo 2.0-liter currently in the Focus RS.

Mazda 3, 6 and RX-8.  Mazda, soon to be reintroduced under Ford Group Philippines, will boast of a revitalized lineup of sedans and sports cars.  The Mazda 3 is a compact car with a choice of sedan or hatchback bodies, while the 6 is a midsize sedan.  If the usual choices look too conservative and drive just as boringly, then this pair of Mazdas may be your salvation. Both feature aggressive looks and reportedly best in class handling.  The RX-8 sports car has two unique features: a normally-aspirated rotary engine displacing just 1.3 liters but pumping out up to 238 bhp, and four doors, the coach-style rears opening up for wide access to the two full-sized rear seats.  Wish list: The hatchback 3, and the 238-bhp engine for the RX-8.

Toyota Revo.  The Revo will probably follow the path of the Everest and Adventure Master in building an AUV/SUV body on a pickup chassis.  The new Revo will look considerably sleeker, almost like the 4Runner.  Engine choices will be a 2.5 or a 3-liter diesel, with the top version pumping out 125 bhp and a robust 315 Nm.  Wish list: 3.5-liter diesel for good pulling power.

BMW  6 series and X3.  The sporty 6-series coupe returns in 2004, with an intense new shape incorporating styling cues like the eyebrow front lenses and bulging trunk lid from the current 7.  Performance will be characteristically potent, with a 4.4-liter V8 packing 333 bhp, good for 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.  Transmissions will be a choice of 6-speeds: manual, automatic or semi-automatic.  The compact SUV will see a premium entry in the X3 "Sport Activity Vehicle."  The X3 will feature one of two 3.0-liter inline-6 engines, a gasoline generating 228 bhp / 300 Nm, or a diesel with 201 bhp and a massive 410 Nm.  The new xDrive 4-wheel drive system and 17-inch wheels are standard. Wish list: With performance that promises to blow us away as much as the styling, either one should be a pleasure to drive.