Like every model year in recent times, the 2010 season began early. Not so long after the New Year's holiday in January, a few 2010 models began to trickle into dealerships. Through the spring and into summer, that trickle expanded - but not quite into the flurry that other years have seen. After all the financial woes of the past year in the auto industry, the 2010 season has started with more of a light whimper than a thunderclap.

Below is a summary of the new and redesigned cars and light trucks that went on sale as early 2010 models, augmented by dozens that are due to appear during autumn. Despite moderate gasoline prices lately - at least compared to the per-gallon costs of a year ago - fuel-efficiency is a prominent theme. But that doesn't mean sizable cars and potent engines have been forgotten, or that hybrids and electrics are taking over the market. Not yet, anyway - though Nissan, for one, is planning an electric-car onslaught in the next year or two.

Acura: Honda's luxury division is about to launch a brand-new crossover model dubbed the ZDX. Billed as a "four-door coupe," the ZDX rides an SUV chassis and flaunts a panoramic sunroof. Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) is standard, with a 300-horsepower V-6 engine. Meanwhile, the compact TSX sedan has added a V-6 engine option for 2010. Acura's turbocharged RDX crossover wagon and MDX sport-utility vehicle get moderate revisions.

Aston Martin: No longer part of Ford's empire, Aston Martin unveiled a brand-new Rapide at the Frankfurt Motor Show, billed as the "world's most elegant four-door sports car."

Audi: During the 2009 model year, Audi launched a midsize crossover wagon called the Q5, to join the existing full-size Q7 model. That Q7 has been redesigned for 2010, including the addition of a diesel-engine version. Diesel power also is offered in the 2010 version of Audi's compact A3 hatchback, promising up to 42 mpg. Cabriolet (convertible) versions of the A5 coupe and its high-performance S5 offshoot are new for 2010. Audi also is adding a soft-top Spyder edition of its R8 supercar. At the Frankfurt (Germany) auto show in September, Audi exhibited an e-tron electric-powered sports car that uses four electric motors. A redesigned "flagship" A8 sedan is coming soon.

Bentley: First unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours in California, in August, the new Mulsanne sedan made its European debut at the Frankfurt (Germany) Motor Show in mid-September.

BMW: A stylishly redesigned Z4 sports car, with retractable roof, joined the BMW lineup during the 2009 model year. New for 2010 is a GT edition of the 5-Series sedan, which made its official debut at the Frankfurt (Germany) auto show in September. The new 550i Gran Turismo goes on sale in December, priced at $64.725. Late in 2009, BMW will launch the first of two new hybrid-powertrain models: an X6 ActiveHybrid (on sale December 5 for $89,725), followed later by a 7 Series ActiveHybrid sedan.

In November, BMW unveiled the sixth-generation 5 Series sedan, claiming the longest wheelbase in its ssegment and a coupelike roofline. The 550i sedan gets a "reverse-flow," twin-turbo V-8 that generates 400 horsepower. A new turbocharged six-cylinder engine goes into the 535i, rated at 300 hp. Both will come with a six-speed manual gearbox or either of two eight-speed automatici transmissions. A 528i sedan comes later, with a 240-hp engine. Newly available safety features include a revised Parking Assistant, Top View cameras, and Frontal Collision Warning.

Buick: Big news for Buick early in the 2010 season was the redesigned LaCrosse sedan, offered in three trim levels with a choice of two V-6 engines. All-wheel drive is available. Buick is one of the "core" brands that will remain in the GM fold, while others (Pontiac, Saturn) fade away or find new ownership. For 2010, Buick offers only three models. Next year, however, a revived Regal midsize sport sedan will debu, based on the European Opel Insignia.

Cadillac: A slimmed-down SRX crossover wagon went on sale this summer, with a choice of two V-6 engines but no more V-8 power. The turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6 delivers 300 horsepower, while the regular 3.0-liter engine promises highway fuel economy of 25 mpg (less with all-wheel drive). Cadillac also has added a Sport Wagon body style (left) to its CTS lineup, which formerly was all-sedan. A CTS coupe arrives during 2010.

Chevrolet: GM's mainstay division has been busy for the 2010 model year, including the long-awaited emergence of the revived Camaro, which retains a lot of the character of the first-generation (1967-69) original. Camaros can have either V-6 or V-8 power. Also introduced is a redesigned Equinox wagon, which promises greater refinement and more carlike qualities than its predecessor. Next year brings a brand-new Cruze compact sedan, already on sale in Europe and first seen at the Paris Motor Show in October 2008. The production version of the Cruze will appear at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

Even though the Volt won't go on sale until late in 2010, Chevrolet continues to get plenty of publicity for the plug-in hybrid (gasoline/electric) model that debuted at Detroit's auto show in January 2007. Rather than propelling the car, as in conventional hybrids, the small gasoline engine will be used to recharge the battery. General Motors has claimed that if the real-world Volt coupe is driven fewer than 40 miles per day and plugged into an electrical outlet at night, it could operate using little or no gasoline.

Chrysler/Jeep: Financial woes at this long-lived member of the "Detroit Three" translate to a dearth of new products for the 2010 season. At the New York Auto Show in April 2009, Chrysler's Jeep division showed a redesigned Grand Cherokee - but it was billed as a 2011 model, not a 2010.

Dodge: After launching the performance-focused Challenger SRT8 late in the 2008 season, followed by a full line of Challenger coupes for 2009, Dodge is receding into the background. All 2010 models will arrive late in the season. No one is certain what the new connection between Chrysler and Fiat - the Italian automaker - will mean for the Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep brands. Possibly, some Fiat-built vehicles could be marketed as Dodge products (and vice versa).

Ford: More than General Motors, and far more than Chrysler, Ford Motor Company has already rolled soundly into the 2010 model year with new and substantially reworked products. Topping the list is the redesigned full-size Taurus sedan, along with its high-performance Taurus SHO offshoot. Ford hasn't offered an SHO edition of the Taurus since 1989, but that model retains a considerable number of fans who clamored for a modern-day version. The Taurus SHO holds an EcoBoost V-6 engine that uses twin turbochargers and direct injection. Fuel-efficient EcoBoost power is available for the 2010 Flex full-size crossover wagon.

Redesigning of the midsize Fusion sedan and its Mercury Milan counterpart included the addition of hybrid-powertrain versions, promising gas mileage above 40 mpg. Ford also reworked its Mustang as an early 2010 model, featuring an exterior described as "muscle goes modern." The Mustang's V-8 engine has gained power, along with what Ford calls a "throatier" exhaust. Mustang wheels are bigger, and the suspension has been retuned.

Ford's Edge crossover wagon promises slightly better fuel economy from its 265-horsepower V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The compact Escape crossover SUV gets new integrated Spotter mirrors. Expedition and Explorer models gain standard Trailer Sway Control. All Focus models now have antilock braking and electronic stability control. Fitted with a 310-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8, a new SVT Raptor edition of the F-150 pickup aims at high-performance off-roading. A 6.2-liter V-8 will arrive later.

Ford has pushed hard lately on those new fuel-efficient EcoBoost versions of its V-6 engine, and four-cylinder EcoBoost engines will appear early in 2010. A brand-new C-MAX multi-activity vehicle made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and will eventually reach the U.S. market. Meanwhile, Ford has launched an F-150 SVT Raptor pickup truck with a 310-horsepoer V-8, targeting off-road enthusiasts. A 6.2-liter will become available later for the Raptor.

GMC: GM's truck division is one of the four "core" brands that will remain as the corporation shrinks in scope. New for 2010 is the GMC Terrain, a crossover SUV related to Chevrolet's redesigned Equinox. Highway gas mileage reaches 32 mpg with the four-cylinder engine, but V-6 power drops that figure to 25 mpg.

Honda: In the fall of 2009, Honda will launch a Crosstour wagon variant of its Accord sedan. Though promising carlike ride qualities, the Crosstour will sit slightly higher than a regular Accord sedan. Honda introduced its 2010 Insight Hybrid hatchback earlier in 2009, as a more "affordable" competitor to the newly-redesigned Toyota Prius.

Hummer: What will happen to the Hummer name now that GM has made it available for sale? Will a Chinese company take over its production? Such plans are in the works, Information on the super-tough wagon's fate will have to wait until later. Meanwhile, H3 and H3T models may now be fitted for flex-fuel operatioon using E85 fuel.

Hyundai: Following up on the launch of its all-new Genesis full-size, rear-drive sedan for 2008, the South Korean automaker introduced a coupe companion as an early 2010 model. A brand-new Equus luxury sedan is expected during 2010.

Infiniti: Nissan's luxury division unveiled a G37 retractable-hardtop coupe as a late 2009 model, reaching dealerships in June. For 2010, the G coupe gets revised content for its Journey edition. The G sedan features a fresh grille and new 17-inch wheels, but won't go on sale until January 2010. Color choices have been simplifiedon the QX56 SUV, which went on sale in May 200. M sedans are available with revised option packages. Heated front seats now are standard on EX crossover wagons with all-wheel drive, while FX crossover SUVs now have standard Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity.

Jaguar: Redesigning of the full-size XJ sedan is the notable news from Britain's luxury/sports car maker.

Kia: After introducing a new Forte compact sedan to replace the Spectra, as an early 2010 model, Kia is planning to unveil a redesigned Sorento SUV this fall. Unike the prior Sorento, which was truck-based, the 2011 Sorento will use unibody construction and weigh considerably less. Meanwhile, a Koup two-door companion to the Forte is reaching dealerships. Last spring, Kia introduced a brand-new youth-oriented Soul crossover wagon, as an early 2010 model.

Land Rover: Information on 2010 Land Rovers will be available later.

Lexus: Toyota's luxury division introduced a pair of 2010 models before the season began. The HS 250h is Lexus's first "dedicated" hybrid-powertrian model. Also new for 2010 are a pair of IS retractable-hardtop coupes. A redesigned RX crossover SUV also appeared as an early 2010 model. Revised styling and a new optional Sport Package highlight the 2010 LS 460 sedan. Arriving later is a GX 460 sport-utilty model, taking the place of the existing GX 470. Next year, Lexus will introduce its first supercar: the limited-production LFA, packing a 552-horsepower, 4.8-liter V-10 engine. Tirekicking Today reported on the LFA from the Tokyo Motor Show in October, and it will appear at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

Lincoln: Initially known as the Zephyr, Lincoln's midsize MKZ sedan gets an exterior freshening for 2010, led by a new front end. New for 2010 is the MKT luxury crcossover, with a 268-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 or Ford's 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6. Available MKT safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Collison Warning, Active Park Assist, and Blind Spot Information with Cross Traffic Alert. Lincoln's MKS "flagship" sedan can now get an optional EcoBoost engine with direct injection and twin turbochargers, in place of the regular 3.7-liter V-6. Lincoln promises fuel-economy improvement for the MKX, which can have a new Midnight Limited Edition Package. Trailer Sway Control is now standard on the big Navigator SUV. So is Ford's MyKey system, which can be set to limit top speed and radio volume when teenagers take the wheel.

Maserati: At the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, this Italian maker of exotic sports cars - and Quattroporte sedans - featured a new Gran Cabrio convertible coupe.

Mazda: In spring 2009, Mazda revealed the next-generation Mazda3 compact, as an early 2010 model. The Mazda3 comes as either a hatchback or a four-door sedan. During 2010, Mazda will introduced a small model: the Mazda2, which is already sold elsewhere in the world.

Mercedes-Benz: Early in 2009, Mercedes-Benz released its brand-new GLK-Class crossover wagons. Next came abundantly redesigned E-Class models: both coupe and sedan. Offshoots of the E-Class, including a high-performance E63 edition, a wagon, an E350 BlueTec diesel model are scheduled to arrive later in the season, followed by a Cabriolet (convertible). Mercedes-Benz also has launched an S400 Hybrid version of its big S-Class sedan.

Mercury: Like Ford itself, the Mercury division added a midsize hybrid sedan as an early 2010 model. Also available with a regular gasoline engine, the Milan is a close cousin to Ford's Fusion.

Mini: A two-passenger Mini Roadster Concept made its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, in September. Mini says the Roadster Concept features a soft top and an "innovative rear end."

Mitsubishi: A reworked Outlander crossover SUV is the most notable news for 2010. Before long, though, Mitsubishi should begin sales of its iMiEV electric car. At the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2009 (covered by Tirekicking Today, Mitsubish held a major media presentation to promote its electric-vehicle lineup, including a Cargo Van version of the iMiEV.

Nissan: Late in the 2009 model year, Nissan sent its distinctively-styled cube wagon to dealerships. Next up for 2010: a roadster body style for the company's 370Z sports car. Nissan has high hopes for strong sales of its forthcoming Leaf electric car, which made its debut in Japan and will be featured at the Tokyo Auto Show in late October.

Other changes to Nissan models are less startling. All Frontier pickup trucks get standard side and curtain-type airbags, and V-6 models add Vehicle Dynamic Control. New Titanium and Platinum editions of the big Armada SUV are available. Nissan's Sentra has been restyled, with a newly available navigation system that includes real-time traffic information. The subcompact Versa earns a facelift, and Altima sedans get a more sculpted appearance, according to Nissan.

Pontiac: Facing its final days, Pontiac has nothing new to offer.

Porsche: Information on the 2010 Porsche models will be available later.

Rolls-Royce: Information on the 2010 Rolls-Royce models will be available later.

Saab: No longer part of the General Motors organization, the Swedish automaker has been seeking new ownership. A redesigned 9-5 sedan was ready for the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, but the ultimate fate of the company - and its products - remains uncertain. In November 2009, the Koenigsegg Group AB, which had intended to purchase Saab from GM, terminated the agreement that had been underway.

Saturn: The fate of Saturn is up in the air, now that it's no longer part of the General Motors fold. Saturn planned to launch a V-6 hybrid version of its Vue during 2009, but that intention fizzled as the division wound up as one of those to be discarded as part of GM's reorganization.

Scion: Changes are minor for the 2010 Scions. Vehicle Stability Control now is standard on the xD. Introduced early in the season, the 2010 xB has new audio systems. A production version of the iQ minicar, first seen at the Paris Motor Show in October 2009, is likely to go on sale with a Scion badge.

Smart: Information on the 2010 smart forTwo models will be available later.

Subaru: Both the Legacy midsize sedan and its ready-to-trek Outback mate enjoyed a substantial redesign, as early 2010 models. Larger than its predecessor, the 2010 Legacy promises greater interior space. Three engines are available, with three distinct all-wheel-drive systems. At the Los Angeles Auto Show in December, Subaru will unveil a Special Edition WRX STI and a WRX Limited model.

Suzuki: Ready for sale this fall, the brand-new Kizashi four-door "flagship" will be Suzuki's largest sedan ever. At the Tokyo Motor Show, Suzuki exhibited a plug-in hybrid version of its Swift minicar. Years after disappearing from the U.S. market, the Swift is a candidate for possible return.

Toyota: Redesigning of the Prius hybrid hatchback as an early 2010 model is the foremost news from Toyota. Similar in appearance to its predecessor, though changed in many details, the 2010 Prius gets improved fuel economy: 51 mpg in city driving and 48 mpg on the highway, according to EPA estimates.

Highlander crossover SUVs now are built in Indiana. New Platinum and Work Truck packages are available for Tundra pickup trucks. Both the Tundra and the Sequoia SUV get a new 4.6-liter V-8 engine. Sequoias also add driver and passenger knee airbags. Vehicle Stability Control now is standard on all Matrix models. The 4Runner SUV has been reworked, and the FJ Cruiser promises 1-mpg greater fuel economy for 2010. A new four-cylinder powertrain is available for Camry sedans. A third-generation version of the Sienna is expected to appear at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December 2009.

In the fall of 2009, Toyota was hit hard by allegations of unwanted acceleration. A recall was issued related to the driver's floor mat. Then, in November, Toyota issued its biggest recall ever to deal with "potential accelerator pedal entrapment," affecting some 3.8 millions vehicles.

Volkswagen: A redesigned Golf debuted at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September, and should reach U.S. dealerships this fall.

Volvo: The Swedish automaker practically led off the 2010 model year, introducing its all-new XC60 wagon early in 2009. Information on other 2010 Volvos will be available later. A facelifted C70 retractable-hardtop coupe made an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show, in October. At the Geneva (Switzerland) Motor Show in spring 2010, Volvo will unveil the next-generation S60 sedan, featuring a new Pedestrian Detection system. Production of the S60 begins in early summer, in Belgium.

Additional information and details, as well as additional photos, will be posted soon. Please check often for regular updates to What's New, continuing through the 2010 model year.