With Core i7 scheduled for Q4 this year, you’d think Intel should concentrate entirely on solid marketing strategies for the new CPUs, but no, they still have enough time to release some Core 2 CPUs. No high-end this time, only some entry-level stuff. However, Intel chose to release these new models in a more silent way, no aggressive campaigns and intrusive ads whatsoever. We just found these available at online retailers with a blinking “new” beside them.

First and foremost is a quad-core CPU model number Q8200, followed by a dual-core E5200. Both of these integrate the 45nm micro architecture. The third CPU is aimed at the mobile market and is officially known as Celeron D 450, coming in a 65nm package.

According to Guru3d, Q8200 is meant as a true entry-level quad-core chip and runs at 2.33GHz with only 4MB of L2 cache along with a 1,333MHz front system bus. The dual-core E5200 is clocked at 2.5GHz, a Level 2 cache cut down to 2MB and a system bus reduced to 800MHz. The 65nm Celeron D 450 also features a 800 MHz FSB, and is the slowest of the three with a 2.2GHz clock and just 512KB of L2 cache.

Bulk prices for the three CPUs are as follows: in 1,000-unit quantities - $224 for the Q8200, $84 for the E5200 and $53 for the 450. Intel also plans to cut down prices for other Core 2 CPUs, just before the official Core i7 release.