You know the world is changing when you learn that one of the most respected sports car makers is gearing up for a hybrid model.

Porsche will offer hybrid technology in a future Cayenne SUV and the upcoming Panamera sedan.

Forces that Europe's automakers cannot control are affecting vehicle and engine development - unstable petroleum prices, potential disruptions in petroleum deliveries and pressure from Europe's environmentalists.

Some might argue that the timing is perfect for the U.S. launch of the Smart - the high-mileage, two-passenger minicar - and BMW's 1-series subcompact. Sales of both begin next year.

Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz has flip-flopped and now is seriously considering the next-generation B class for U.S. sales.

But the future is hardly composed solely of econoboxes. Rolls-Royce - stung by the success of the $160,000-plus Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur - wants a piece of that action. A smaller Rolls is on the drawing board.

Volkswagen plans to give the luxury segment another try. Despite the Phaeton's dismal sales, a new sedan is planned. This time, though, the sticker will be lower than the Phaeton's, which topped $100,000 for the W-12 version.

And possibly the most important car in Jaguar's history goes on sale in 2008. The XF sedan, the S-Type replacement, likely will make or break the struggling company.

Finally, the U.S. appetite for European vehicles is attracting a familiar face. Sexy and sassy Alfa Romeo returns next year after a 12-year absence.

Over the next five pages, Automotive News highlights the 2007-10 U.S. vehicle plans for Europe's major automakers.

You may e-mail Rick Kranz at rkranz@crain.com