Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander

Remember when we said that the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV II (worst name ever) shown in Tokyo was basically the next Mitsubishi Outlander? We weren't lying. The 2013 Outlander will debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show, and Mitsubishi has released the first photo of the new crossover. What's more, the fancy PX-MiEV II concept apparently wasn't a vaporware showcase; Mitsubishi says that a plug-in hybrid version of the Outlander will join the roster later in 2012.

The Euro-spec Outlander launches this summer with 2.0-liter gas and 2.2-liter turbodiesel power, three seating rows, and an eco-driving coach feature designed to help drivers eke out the best possible fuel economy. Furthermore, the diesel version will offer an automatic start-stop feature to help maximize efficiency and minimize emissions.

Available driver aids include Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control systems. There's not much else to tell right now, other than that Russia gets the new Outlander first, followed by a global rollout that includes North America. Follow the jump to read the press release, and click the image above to see a larger version.

Continue reading 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013breakingcrossovercuvgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmitsubishioutlandersuvThu, 09 Feb 2012 11:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168074/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/20168074/article-detail.xml 20168074 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/newmitsuoutlandersmall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/newmitsuoutlandersmall.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Xterra to continue as traditional SUV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/nissan-xterra-to-continue-as-traditional-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/nissan-xterra-to-continue-as-traditional-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/nissan-xterra-to-continue-as-traditional-suv/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Nissan Xterra

Nissan has good news for anyone weeping about the fact that the 2013 Pathfinder has abandoned its body-on-frame ways. The company isn't completely ditching legitimate SUVs for the crossover crowd. According to Car and Driver, the Nissan Xterra will continue to shun a unibody design for the conceivable future. The magazine spoke with engineers familiar with the development of the Xterra who said the vehicle will share its DNA with the Nissan Frontier for years to come.

That means buyers will still be able to enjoy the vehicle's truckish charm and legitimate off-road chops. Those who want something a little softer or smaller can turn to the automaker's Rogue, while the 2013 Pathfinder will now offer mall-goers a suitable alternative to the Ford Explorer. The times may be changing, but for now, the Xterra isn't.

Nissan Xterra to continue as traditional SUV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>body on framecrossovercuvnissansuvxterraThu, 12 Jan 2012 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147579/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/12/nissan-xterra-to-continue-as-traditional-suv/20147579/article-detail.xml 20147579 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2011-nissan-xterra-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2011-nissan-xterra-628.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Nissan Juke - The Ultimate Donut Machine?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/05/video-nissan-juke-the-ultimate-donut-machine/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/05/video-nissan-juke-the-ultimate-donut-machine/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/05/video-nissan-juke-the-ultimate-donut-machine/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nissan Juke drift
Nissan Juke on a donut run - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Is the 2011 Nissan Juke a smart tool for doing donuts? It's a fun whip, but as a front- or front-biased all-wheel driver, we're leaning very close to 'No.' Is the Juke a great tool for getting donuts? After watching Nissan's new ad for its little crossover, we might just have to say 'Yes.'

The first Juke ad we saw went in a rather weird direction, however this new spot plays up the CUV's sportiness. The Juke squeezes 188 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque from its 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Pair that with an available six-speed manual transmission and a curb weight that sits on the good side of 3,000 pounds (for the front-wheel drive model), and you have a tiny machine capable of a surprising amount of thrills behind the wheel.

Grab the e-brake and drift on over to the jump to see the donut-run action, along with a second bonus commercial in which the Juke takes on 'The Dread.' Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: 2011 Nissan Juke: First Drive


Photos by Chris Paukert/Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Nissan via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Nissan Juke - The Ultimate Donut Machine?

Video: Nissan Juke - The Ultimate Donut Machine? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Nissan Jukecrossovercuvdonut runjukejuke adnissannissan jukenissan juke adthe dreadvideoTue, 05 Oct 2010 12:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19659648/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/05/video-nissan-juke-the-ultimate-donut-machine/19659648/article-detail.xml 19659648 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/juke-drift_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/juke-drift.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Ford Edge begins shipping to dealers as model hits 400,000 units]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2011-ford-edge-begins-shipping-to-dealers-as-model-hits-400-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2011-ford-edge-begins-shipping-to-dealers-as-model-hits-400-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2011-ford-edge-begins-shipping-to-dealers-as-model-hits-400-000/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

It goes without saying, but we're going to go ahead and say it anyway: Crossovers are so hot right now. According to data compiled by Ford, the CUV industry has expanded 220 percent since 2006, which is the year the Blue Oval introduced the world to the Edge, its main player in the hotly contested market.

Ford also contends that the over 400,000 Edge CUVs have sold since late 2006, making it the best-selling mid-size crossover over that period of time. Don't expect that growth to slow down any time soon, either, as Ford projects the CUV segment will increase another few percentage points in 2011. In fact, the market for CUVs will grow to be as large as that of full-size pickup trucks.

In order to meet the increased demand it expects for CUVs, Ford has sharpened its Edge (sorry, couldn't resist) for the 2011 model year. Of special note are the two new drivetrain choices that join the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost with 285 horsepower and a 3.5-horsepower 3.7 Ti-VCT V6 in the newly beefed-up Edge Sport.

The House that Henry Built is also quick to point out that its next-gen Edge will come with a full suite of technology options, including Sync and MyFord Touch. So, will all of this added goodness equal a worthwhile improvement to the hot-selling previous-generation Edge? Stay tuned for a First Ride report, and feel free to click past the break for Ford's official press release.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading 2011 Ford Edge begins shipping to dealers as model hits 400,000 units

2011 Ford Edge begins shipping to dealers as model hits 400,000 units originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 edge2011 ford edge2011Edge2011FordEdgecrossovercrossoverscuvcuvsedgefordford edgeford edge salesFordEdgeFordEdgeSalesTue, 17 Aug 2010 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19597094/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/17/2011-ford-edge-begins-shipping-to-dealers-as-model-hits-400-000/19597094/article-detail.xml 19597094 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2011edgesport000opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2011edgesport000opt.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan refreshes Rogue crossover for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/nissan-refreshes-rogue-crossover-for-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/nissan-refreshes-rogue-crossover-for-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/nissan-refreshes-rogue-crossover-for-2011/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Nissan Rogue - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Nissan Rogue is a getting a slight efresh when it goes on sale in mid-August. The most obvious external changes are a nose job that brings with it an eggcrate grille shaped more like the one on its bigger Murano sibling, along with new pockets around the foglamps that give the front a more sculpted appearance and revised front and rear spoilers. 18-inch wheels are also newly available for the SL and S Krōm Edition models. The exterior alterations strike us as subtle but handsome, particularly the new grille, which minimizes the odd 'chrome bucktooth' look of the 2010 model.

Perhaps the more important changes outside the vehicle are of the type that only James May would be likely to notice: spats in front of the wheels and a new underbody tray cut the aerodynamic drag and contribute to 1 mpg improvements in both the city and highway fuel economy numbers. The front-wheel-drive model is now EPA rated at 22/28 mpg while the all-wheel-drive variant manages 22/26 mpg. Inside, the Rogue doesn't look much different but does get upgraded entertainment systems.

The 2011 gets its first public showing this weekend at the annual Z Car Convention in Nashville, TN.


Gallery: 2011 Nissan Rogue


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan refreshes Rogue crossover for 2011

Nissan refreshes Rogue crossover for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 nissan2011 nissan rogue2011Nissan2011NissanRoguecompact crossovercompact CUVCompactCrossoverCompactCuvcuvnissannissan rognissan z car conventionNissanRogNissanZCarConventionroguerogue crossoverrogue refreshrogue-talentsRogueCrossoverRogueRefreshz car conventionZCarConventionFri, 30 Jul 2010 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19574706/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/30/nissan-refreshes-rogue-crossover-for-2011/19574706/article-detail.xml 19574706 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2011rogue103-1280491779opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2011rogue103-1280491779opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Dodge Durango (or is that Magnum?) revealed on Twitter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/2012-dodge-durango-or-is-that-magnum-revealed-on-twitter/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/2012-dodge-durango-or-is-that-magnum-revealed-on-twitter/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/2012-dodge-durango-or-is-that-magnum-revealed-on-twitter/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Ah, the magic of the interwebs. Chrysler has yet to officially reveal the 2012 Dodge Durango (which could yet be birthed under the name Magnum), but we've come across this rather nonchalant camera phone photo taken by one of the Twitterati.

Judging from the Durango/Magnum spy shots that have come through our hands, the exterior design hasn't changed much during the SUV-turned-crossover's development. If we're honest, the design is a little milquetoast, but we'd rather Chrysler be executing simple designs rather than unsightly messes. Expect the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter Hemi V8 to be under the hood when the SUV hits the road in early 2011.

[Source: Twitter]

2012 Dodge Durango (or is that Magnum?) revealed on Twitter originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 dodge durango2012 dodge durango magnum2012 dodge magnum2012DodgeDurango2012DodgeDurangoMagnum2012DodgeMagnumbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewscrossoverCUVdodgedodge CUVDodge Durangododge durango spy shotsdodge magnumdodge magnum spy shotsdodge SUVDodgeCuvDodgeDurangoDodgeDurangoSpyShotsDodgeMagnumDodgeMagnumSpyShotsDodgeSuvdurangoMagnumspy photosspy picsspy shotspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotstweettweetstwitterThu, 22 Jul 2010 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19564580/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/22/2012-dodge-durango-or-is-that-magnum-revealed-on-twitter/19564580/article-detail.xml 19564580 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/hmm-did-chrysler-release-2012-dodge-magnum-photos-yetopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/hmm-did-chrysler-release-2012-dodge-magnum-photos-yetopt.jpg <![CDATA[Kamal-Back: Alfa Romeo reportedly cooking up two new crossovers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/07/kamal-back-alfa-romeo-reportedly-cooking-up-two-new-crossovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/07/kamal-back-alfa-romeo-reportedly-cooking-up-two-new-crossovers/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/07/kamal-back-alfa-romeo-reportedly-cooking-up-two-new-crossovers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Alfa Romeo Kamal concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Alfa Romeo, in case you hadn't noticed, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. And it seems like rumors of an Alfa CUV have been floating around for just as long. But the wait may finally be over as the Italian automaker reportedly plans on making it up to its customers with not one, but two new crossover models.

With its sights set firmly on Audi's Q5 and upcoming Q3 compact crossovers, the two-pronged approach may help Alfa launch into the CUV market. The smaller of the two is tipped to be based on the new C-Evo platform developed for and recently launched on the Giulietta, while the larger model could borrow Jeep underpinnings, substantiating earlier reports. Expect the first to come along in a couple of years and the second to follow a couple of years after that, with North American sales a distinct possibility.


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept


[Source: Autocar]

Kamal-Back: Alfa Romeo reportedly cooking up two new crossovers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa romeoalfa romeo crossoveralfa romeo suvAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoCrossoverAlfaRomeoSuvcrossovercuvsuvWed, 07 Jul 2010 18:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19544582/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/07/kamal-back-alfa-romeo-reportedly-cooking-up-two-new-crossovers/19544582/article-detail.xml 19544582 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/alfa-kamal-4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/alfa-kamal-4.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage keeps moving in the proper direction]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Kia Sportage - click above for high-res image gallery

The crossover is the high-fructose corn syrup of the automotive world. Think about it: Rather than using real sugar, Pepsi opts for a cheaper, highly refined and processed sweetener. Which, according to lots of studies, is pretty bad for us. Why would they do that? Higher profits, pure and simple. Likewise, CUVs offer all of the space of a comparably long station wagon or hatchback, get inferior mileage, don't handle as well, take longer to stop and in most cases offer none of the utility of a true off-roader. But guess what? They pull in fistfuls of greenbacks for auto companies.

Like high-fructose corn syrup then, car experts ("Hi, Mom!") can scream out their lungs until they're blue about the benefits of a more sensible, safer, smarter product (again, wagons). Yet consumers simply don't listen. The fastest growing automotive segment is - of course - the small CUV. Like the Snickers bar, the Twinkie and a twenty-piece Chicken McNuggets meal with BBQ sauce (all of which is mostly corn syrup), they are here to stay, forever. Buyers just seem to like the looks and the perceived safety that a high-riding vehicle affords them. Plus, for those with infant children, not having to stoop down to strap Junior into his car seat is the most luxurious feature on earth. With all that in mind, some CUVs are better than others - and not only in terms of looks, but also handling, packaging, content and value. Is the new 2011 Kia Sportage one of them? Read on to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage


Photos by Jonny Lieberman / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage keeps moving in the proper direction

First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage keeps moving in the proper direction originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 kia2011 sportage2011Kia2011SportagecrossoverCUVfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveford syncFordSynckiakia crossoverKia CUVkia sportageKia UVOKiaCrossoverKiaCuvKiaSportageKiaUvoMicrosoft WEAMicrosoftWeaPeter SchreyerPeterSchreyerSportageUVOThu, 01 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19537697/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/01/2011-kia-sportage-first-drive-review-road-test-uvo/19537697/article-detail.xml 19537697 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1kiasportagefd2011_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lead1kiasportagefd2011.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Flex to get new sportier trim level]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/10/2011-ford-flex-spy-shots-new-sporty-trim-level/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/10/2011-ford-flex-spy-shots-new-sporty-trim-level/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/10/2011-ford-flex-spy-shots-new-sporty-trim-level/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Ford Flex spy shots: click above for high-res image gallery

During a rainy and wind-whipped drive home this weekend, we happened upon a foursome of Ford prototypes - one 2011 Lincoln MKX towing a trailer and a trio of Ford Flex crossovers. But unlike the stock-appearing MKX, the trio of Flex EcoBoost models looked different to us, even from a distance. Upon closing in and getting a few frustrating iPhone shots, we decided to speed ahead of the group, pull into a safe lay-by, race to retrieve a SLR camera from the trunk of our long-term Subaru Legacy 2.5GT, and get back in pursuit in hopes of some higher-quality shots - the results of which you see here.

As confirmed by an Autoblog source within Ford, the Flex will receive a new-for-2011 trim level that includes the stealthy alterations seen here: A blacked-out roof (currently, customers can spec a body-color panel, white or gray) and greenhouse, smoked headlamps and taillamps, as well as striking black trim panels and a set of new five-spoke wheels. Perhaps most interestingly, this special Flex receives a carbon-finish grille with the Blue Oval badge deleted. In its stead are big blacked-out letters spelling out F-L-E-X on the hood's leading edge - not unlike some of the company's recent SEMA concepts from Funkmaster Flex and Chip Foose.

Our source informs us that the model will be available in four colors, three of which we spotted: Red Candy, White Platinum, Ingot Silver, and a particularly menacing black model that will feature blacked-out wheels, black chrome moldings, and black mirror scullcaps. The new model will build atop the current Limited trim and be available in both normally aspirated and EcoBoost flavors.

We're not yet sure what the new variant will be called, but here in the States, top trim levels have been dubbed 'Platinum,' while 'Titanium' is the association of choice in Europe, and we're betting on one of those two designations.

Ford's unconventional Flex arguably ambled out of the gate when it was introduced for 2008, but the CUV has been picking up steam as of late, with familiarity seemingly building fondness among consumers. From where we sit, the model's sales improvement is somewhat predictable as the Flex has received a warm reception from critics, and has likely served to blunt the impact of its controversial design. Either way, the new-for-2011 model should go some way toward accelerating the acceptance process when it speeds into showrooms this summer.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Flex


Photos by Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Flex to get new sportier trim level originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 May 2010 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 flex2011 ford2011 ford flex2011Flex2011Ford2011FordFlexCUVEcoBoostFlexflex platinumflex titaniumFlexPlatinumFlexTitaniumfordford CUVFord FlexFordCuvFordFlexspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsMon, 10 May 2010 12:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19471006/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/10/2011-ford-flex-spy-shots-new-sporty-trim-level/19471006/article-detail.xml 19471006 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/023-2011-ford-flex-spy-cpopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/023-2011-ford-flex-spy-cpopt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Nissan Juke is actually pretty neat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/Nissan-Juke-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut-cuv/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/Nissan-Juke-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut-cuv/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/Nissan-Juke-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut-cuv/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Nissan Juke - Click above for high-res image gallery

Attention all you small crossover fans out there, now is the time to get excited. Nissan pulled back the curtain on the 2011 Juke and although we've seen it (at the Geneva Motor Show), we're still glad it's here. We're being implored to mention that some of us think the front end has a Pontiac Aztek quality about it. Others ("Hi, Mom!") feel different. Yeah, it's... not normal looking, but we've seen worse. At least it's not derivative. The rest of the Juke's styling, however, is much less controversial. Especially that rear three-quarter view.

Sadly, Nissan has neglected to hold a press conference for the Juke, so we're still not sure exactly how much power this mini-ute is making. For now, we're stuck with the "180+ horsepower and 170+ lb-ft of torque" from its 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder turbo, figures that are cited in the car's press release. There's a manual option for the front drivers, but CVT-only for the torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive versions. As soon as we can track down a Nissan employee with the details, we'll update the post. Until then, chew on this for more details. Also, while this here Juke is a right-hand driver, Nissan will be selling Jukes to us left-seat driving, high-rider loving Yanks come 2011.

UPDATE: We've talked Nissan's people here in NYC and until the 1.6-liter goes through the EPA, those numbers are still estimates. Nissan will tweak the engine to hit its mileage targets, at which point horsepower and torque figures will be solidified.


Gallery: New York 2010: Nissan Juke


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Nissan Juke is actually pretty neat

New York 2010: 2011 Nissan Juke is actually pretty neat originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 Juke2011 Nissan2011 Nissan Juke2011Juke2011Nissan2011NissanJukecrossoverCUVJukeNew YorkNew York 2010New York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNissanNissan JukeNissanJukeNY 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowNYIASNYIAS 2010Nyias2010Wed, 31 Mar 2010 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/Nissan-Juke-2011-new-york-auto-show-debut-cuv/19421191/article-detail.xml 19421191 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/juke630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/juke630.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Nissan Juke details, specs spilled ahead of New York intro *Updated w/video]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/30/2011-nissan-juke-details-specs-spilled-ahead-of-new-york-intro/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/30/2011-nissan-juke-details-specs-spilled-ahead-of-new-york-intro/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/30/2011-nissan-juke-details-specs-spilled-ahead-of-new-york-intro/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Nissan Juke - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan's new-for-2011 Juke is set to make its North American debut at tomorrow's New York Auto Show, and the small crossover's polarizing moon-buggy styling is sure to set tongues wagging, just as it did during its global premiere at the Geneva Motor Show. Having seen this vehicle in person already, we can tell you that its "Baby Predator" front end takes some getting used to, but it all comes together better than expected, and the interior seems surprisingly roomy and well-resolved.

Much smaller in person than one might think, the curvy ute is significantly shorter than vehicles like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 - it's even shorter than the new Hyundai Tucson and Nissan's own Rogue, not to mention the likes of Mitsubishi's Outlander Sport (itself another NY debut). The closest competitor we can think of is Suzuki's SX4 crossover, which is, believe it or not, actually longer than the Juke. In the end, we fully expect it to be cross-shopped with more conventional hatchbacks (Mazda3), as well as 'box cars' like the Kia Soul.

Featuring the first application of Nissan's 1.6-liter direct injected four-cylinder turbo in North America, it will be available with torque vectoring all-wheel drive, so it might just be the driver's car of the bunch, too. Featuring "180+ horsepower and 170+ lb-ft of torque," it will be available in both six-speed manual form and CVT with a sport setting. Unfortunately, the three-pedal setup will only be available in front-drive SV and SL trim, however. That torque-vectoring system? It defaults to a 50:50 front-to-rear split, but it can push power from side-to-side along the rear axle when situations warrant.

No official pricing has been revealed yet, but Nissan promises that the Juke will start at "just under $20,000." Want to learn more? Check out our high-res gallery below and the official press releases and spec sheet after the jump.

Update: Three videos of the Juke, its torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system and Nissan's new direct-injected 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (definitely the one to watch) have been added after the jump.


Gallery: Nissan Juke


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading 2011 Nissan Juke details, specs spilled ahead of New York intro *Updated w/video

2011 Nissan Juke details, specs spilled ahead of New York intro *Updated w/video originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Mar 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Juke2011 Nissan2011Juke2011NissancrossoverCUVCVTdirect injectdirect injectionDirectInjectDirectInjectionNew YorkNew York 2010New York Auto Show 2010NewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShow2010Nissan JukeNissanJukeNYIASNYIAS 2010Nyias2010torque-vectoringTue, 30 Mar 2010 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19420516/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/30/2011-nissan-juke-details-specs-spilled-ahead-of-new-york-intro/19420516/article-detail.xml 19420516 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/08-nissan-juke-press-630-main_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/08-nissan-juke-press-630-main.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2012 Ford Explorer caught completely disrobed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/25/spy-shots-2012-ford-explorer-caught-completely-disrobed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/25/spy-shots-2012-ford-explorer-caught-completely-disrobed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/25/spy-shots-2012-ford-explorer-caught-completely-disrobed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Ford Explorer spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's never good to be caught by the paparazzi in the buff. Unless, of course, that was your plan all along in order to get your C-list self some much-needed coverage in the various gossip rags. But we digress. Our intrepid spy photographers managed to snap off a giant series of photos of the hotly anticipated 2012 Ford Explorer completely uncovered, and that is a very, very good thing indeed.

For the first time ever, thanks to an unruly gust of wind, we get to see the first-ever unibody Explorer in all its glory. That looks to include a new take on the familiar in-your-face three-bar grille with newly perforated top and bottom rungs bisected by two thin chrome strips up front. Note, too, the mildly sculpted flanks that lead to the currently en vogue fastback-like sharply raked C-pillar. A closer look at the fascia reveals not-yet-completed projector headlamps ensconced in clear covers that angle well back into the fenders. Lookin' good so far, we'd say.

Though we don't quite get a good look at the rear fascia, we do get a clear shot underneath the car from the hind quarters. This is most definitely a front-wheel drive chassis, and though this particular mule isn't equipped with one, there will surely be an optional rear differential for all-wheel drive duty. See all the shots for yourself in our high-res image gallery below.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 Ford Explorer


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: 2012 Ford Explorer caught completely disrobed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Mar 2010 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 ford explorer2011FordExplorer20122012 explorer2012 ford explorer2012Explorer2012FordExplorerbreakingbreaking newsbreakingnewscuvexplorerexplorer spy shotsExplorerSpyShotsfordford explorerford explorer 2011ford explorer cuvford explorer unibodyFordExplorerFordExplorer2011FordExplorerCuvFordExplorerUnibodyspy shotsSpyShotsThu, 25 Mar 2010 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19414797/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/25/spy-shots-2012-ford-explorer-caught-completely-disrobed/19414797/article-detail.xml 19414797 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/ford-explorer-kgp-march-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/ford-explorer-kgp-march-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva-bound Mitsubishi ASX coming to America this fall as Outlander Sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/mitsubishi-outlander-sport-geneva-asx-fall-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/mitsubishi-outlander-sport-geneva-asx-fall-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/mitsubishi-outlander-sport-geneva-asx-fall-america/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Mitsubishi ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport

While we have known for some time that Mitsubishi will introduce a new compact crossover dubbed RVR in Japan and ASX in Europe, what we didn't know was what designation the car would carry when it hit North American showrooms. We do now. A source at Mitsubishi tells Autoblog that the inexpensive four-cylinder crossover will be called Outlander Sport, a nod to Mitsu's larger and more-established three-row Outlander CUV.

Astute carspotters will note that this isn't the first time that the Japanese automaker has used the 'Sport' moniker in this capacity, attached to the name of another more expensive and well-known model in its lineup. Back at the beginning of this decade, Mitsu marketed its Montero Sport (a vehicle that was eventually supplanted by the slow-selling Endeavor), a body-on-frame SUV that rode the coattails of the more established and luxurious Montero.

When the five-passenger Outlander Sport arrives in North America this fall, it will carry a Lancer-derived 2.0-liter gasoline four-cylinder backed by a CVT gearbox, and it will arrive with electronically controlled all-wheel drive. Other drivetrains remain a possibility, but the focus of the 2.0-liter setup will be fuel economy, with Mitsu engineers targeting a highway figure of 30 miles-per-gallon or better (the larger Outlander achieves a maximum of 25 mpg). A front-drive, six-speed manual model will be available in other markets, but its fate remains undecided for North America.

Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but we expect it to undercut the front-drive Outlander's MSRP of $21,605 (including destination) as it takes on vehicles like Nissan's Rogue and Hyundai Tucson. The new model will be revealed at next week's Geneva Motor Show.


Gallery: Mitsubishi ASX

Geneva-bound Mitsubishi ASX coming to America this fall as Outlander Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ASXcompact crossoverCompactCrossovercrossoverCUVEndeavorMitsuMitsubishiMitsubishi ASXMitsubishi EndeavorMitsubishi RVRMitsubishiAsxMitsubishiEndeavorMitsubishiRvrmonteromontero sportMonteroSportOutlanderOutlander SportOutlanderSportRVRRVR CrossoverRvrCrossoverMon, 22 Feb 2010 11:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19367916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/22/mitsubishi-outlander-sport-geneva-asx-fall-america/19367916/article-detail.xml 19367916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/59545mitopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/59545mitopt.jpg <![CDATA[Patent drawings reveal Durango-replacing 2012 Dodge Magnum?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/patent-drawings-reveal-durango-replacing-2012-dodge-magnum/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/patent-drawings-reveal-durango-replacing-2012-dodge-magnum/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/patent-drawings-reveal-durango-replacing-2012-dodge-magnum/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2012 Dodge Magnum patent drawings - Click above for image gallery

Imperfect though it may have been, we kinda miss the Dodge Magnum. Building a low-slung wagon and dropping a Hemi into it took a lot of guts on Chrysler's part. And while it may have been discontinued, it appears to be slated for an encore, albeit in name only.

As we reported a couple of weeks back, Chrysler is considering bringing the Magnum nameplate back for a new crossover to replace the Durango. New U.S. patent drawings have leaked onto the interwebs, giving us a good look at how the new Magnum will appear when it hits the road, anticipated sometime next year as a 2011 or 2012 model.

The new Magnum will definitely be taller than the old one, but considerably more car-like than the body-on-frame Durango it replaces. Underpinnings are expected to be borrowed from the highly anticipated new Jeep Grand Cherokee, with 280-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and 360-hp V8 5.7L V8 on offer.


Gallery: 2012 Dodge Magnum/Durango patent drawings


[Source: Carscoop]

Patent drawings reveal Durango-replacing 2012 Dodge Magnum? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CUVdodgedodge CUVdodge durangododge magnumDodgeCuvDodgeDurangoDodgeMagnumdurangomagnumpatentpatent applicationpatent drawingspatent filingPatentApplicationPatentDrawingsPatentFilingTue, 02 Feb 2010 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19341442/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/02/patent-drawings-reveal-durango-replacing-2012-dodge-magnum/19341442/article-detail.xml 19341442 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/web2012-dodge-durango-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/web2012-dodge-durango-1.jpg <![CDATA[Audi officially confirms Q5 hybrid coming in 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/28/audi-officially-confirms-q5-hybrid-coming-in-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/28/audi-officially-confirms-q5-hybrid-coming-in-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/28/audi-officially-confirms-q5-hybrid-coming-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: ,

Audi Q5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen doesn't seem to be a big fan of electric vehicles, yet the four-ringed automaker appears to be warming to the green tech. Since de Nysschen's assault on the Chevrolet Volt (and electric vehicles in general), the German luxury automaker has unveiled the sweet-looking eTron concept, and it is now officially confirming that it will venture into the hybrid market.

Audi published a press release today touting the billions of euros it is spending to increase its product portfolio from 34 models to 42 in 2015. One of the info-bits buried within the text is the promised 2011 arrival of a Q5 hybrid, a development first rumored back in May. The hybrid Q5 would be Audi's first full hybrid vehicle, giving the German luxury car maker an entry in the growing green scene. Audi didn't take the opportunity to provide any details about powertrains or battery types, but it does say that the Q5 hybrid would be officially unveiled by the end of 2010.

Audi has in the past said that it didn't plan to go all-in on hybrids due to the fact that the German automaker feels diesels make more sense both financially and in terms of practicality, particularly for the U.S. market. While most of us around AB agree with this thought process, we think that if Audi has decided to pursue gas-electric models anyway, the hot-selling Q5 should make a good first hybrid - especially as its size will enable Audi engineers to more easily fit an electric motor and a battery pack into its CUV proportions. Further, the Q5's somewhat hefty price tag might help hide some of the added cost associated with a hybrid powertrain. Hit the jump to read over the official verbiage.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi officially confirms Q5 hybrid coming in 2011

Audi officially confirms Q5 hybrid coming in 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Audi Q52011 Audi Q5 hybrid2011AudiQ52011AudiQ5Hybrid2012 audi q52012AudiQ5audi crossoveraudi CUVaudi hybridaudi Q5AudiCrossoverAudiCuvAudiHybridAudiQ5breakingbreakingnewscrossoverCUVde nysschenDeNysschengas-electrichybridJohan de NysschenJohanDeNysschenQ5Mon, 28 Dec 2009 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19295820/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/28/audi-officially-confirms-q5-hybrid-coming-in-2011/19295820/article-detail.xml 19295820 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/q5080005-1280_580op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/02/q5080005-1280_580op.jpg <![CDATA[GM recalling 59,000 2010 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain CUVs over faulty defrosters]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/28/gm-recalling-59-000-2010-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-cuvs-over-fa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/28/gm-recalling-59-000-2010-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-cuvs-over-fa/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/28/gm-recalling-59-000-2010-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-cuvs-over-fa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Chevrolet Equinox - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors' hot selling new Theta platform crossovers, the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and 2010 GMC Terrain, face their first recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced that GM will recall some 59,031 units of the popular CUVs due to a potential problem in the HVAC system.

According to NHTSA, an unspecified fault in the system's software programming can render the heating, air conditioning, defroster, radio control, and panel backlighting to be rendered inoperative. Without proper defrosting and defogging capabilities, visibility can be diminished, increasing the possibility of a crash. (Presumably, you all can drive safely without use of the tunes)

In any case, beginning in January, Chevrolet and GMC dealers will be instructed to replace the computer modules in the center console to repair the problem. If you're an owner of one of these crossovers, click through to the jump for instructions on how to contact Chevrolet or GMC for further information.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox


Photos by John Neff / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

Gallery: New York: 2010 GMC Terrain


Photos by Jonathon Ramsey / (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading GM recalling 59,000 2010 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain CUVs over faulty defrosters

GM recalling 59,000 2010 Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain CUVs over faulty defrosters originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Dec 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Chevrolet Equinox2010 GMC Terrain2010ChevroletEquinox2010GmcTerrainChevroletchevrolet defoggerChevrolet defrosterChevroletDefoggerChevroletDefrosterChevyCUVdefoggerdefrosterEquinoxGMGMCGMC defoggerGMC defrosterGmcDefoggerGmcDefrosterNHTSArecallsafety recallSafetyRecallTerrainThetaMon, 28 Dec 2009 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19295494/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/28/gm-recalling-59-000-2010-chevy-equinox-gmc-terrain-cuvs-over-fa/19295494/article-detail.xml 19295494 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/chevyequinoxreview_03_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/chevyequinoxreview_03_opt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Kia Sorento pricing pops up, starts under $20k*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/2011-kia-sorento-pricing-pops-up-starts-under-20k/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/2011-kia-sorento-pricing-pops-up-starts-under-20k/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/2011-kia-sorento-pricing-pops-up-starts-under-20k/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Pricing for the 2011 Kia Sorento has popped up unannounced on the automaker's consumer website, and as it turns out, you can drive a base model off the lot with money to spare for a Subway footlong - minus taxes and all that. At $19,995 for the starter model (*plus $795 in destination charges), you'll get a five-seat unibody crossover with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder and a manual transmission standard. That engine puts out 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque and is also standard fitment for the uplevel LX and EX models, but the latter two get automatic transmissions.

The top tier model is the EX V6, with a 3.5-liter V6 proffering 276 hp and 248 ft-lb. All of the variants except the base also come in either front-drive or all-wheel drive variants, and there is also a seven-seat version. By the time you get to the grips-at-all-fours EX V6, you're looking at $28,895.

The Sorento is meant to "significantly increase [Kia's] share of the utility vehicle market," and with pricing like that, a good ride and healthy tech specs, it's got a good shot.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Kia Sorento


Gallery photos by Jeremy Korzeniewski/ Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Kia]

2011 Kia Sorento pricing pops up, starts under $20k* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia2010 sorento2010Kia2010KiaSorento2010Sorento2011 kia2011 kia sorento2011 sorento2011Kia2011KiaSorento2011SorentocrossovercuvkiaKia Sorento 2010KiaSorento2010sorentosorento hybridsorento pricingSorentoHybridSorentoPricingThu, 17 Dec 2009 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19285197/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/17/2011-kia-sorento-pricing-pops-up-starts-under-20k/19285197/article-detail.xml 19285197 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/sorrento_price_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/sorrento_price.jpg <![CDATA[Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 VW Tiguan Track & Avenue - Click above for high-res image gallery

Another dressed up offering has landed on that island haven for special editions, the UK. This time, it's the Volkswagen Tiguan Track & Avenue. Called a "very expressive off-roader," English types will be able to buy it in either "Oryx White Pearl Effect" or "Island Grey Pearl Effect." Not that you'd take those pretty 19-inch Savannah alloys off-road, but there's a specially angled front end with a silver skid plate so you can look like you would.

Inside is lots of amaranth-colored leather in "Heavy Waxy" grade (it looks better than it sounds), along with sport seats and a high-end stereo. Engine choices number four, in both petrol and diesel, topping out at the 200 horsepower 2.0-liter gasoline variant. It will start at €38,225 (a princely $56k USD, but remember - U.K. prices are still higher than that of their U.S. counterparts) for the 2.0-liter TSI diesel with a manual transmission and 170 hp. Read about it in the press release after the jump, and have a look at our gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: VW Tiguan Track & Avenue


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K.

Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 volkswagen2010 volkswagen tiguan2010 volkswagen tiguan track avenue2010 vw2010 vw tiguan2010 vw tiguan track avenue2010Volkswagen2010VolkswagenTiguan2010VolkswagenTiguanTrackAvenue2010Vw2010VwTiguan2010VwTiguanTrackAvenuecuvtiguantiguan track avenueTiguanTrackAvenuevolkswagenvwThu, 10 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19273066/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/19273066/article-detail.xml 19273066 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/tiguan_street_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/tiguan_street.jpg <![CDATA[2010 Hyundai Tucson makes the drive to America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-los-angeles-2009-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-los-angeles-2009-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-los-angeles-2009-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Hyundai Tucson - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai's second big unveiling for the LA Auto Show is its next-generation Tucson, its compact crossover. Like the Sonata sedan, we've actually already seen the Tucson for some time now, as it previously debuted South Korea and Europe badged as the ix35 or Tucson ix. We actually first saw this shape as the ix-onic concept at Geneva last March and the production model is only mildly toned down.

Even toned down, though, this is a major departure from the outgoing Tucson. Like the Sonata, that model was a competent but utterly invisible CUV. The new Tucson was created by Hyundai's Frankfurt-based European design studio and features the same "Fluidic Sculpture" surface language used on the Sonata. Like the sedan, the look is attractive, if not entirely original, as the form seems to draw quite a bit inspiration from the Nissan Murano, especially in the rear. Either way, with its bulging fenders and a multitude of curves and creases, the new style is likely to draw a lot more second glances than its predecessor. Wherever the ideas came from, the Tucson appears to be well-executed overall. Follow the jump to learn more Hyundai's latest CUV.


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Tucson


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading 2010 Hyundai Tucson makes the drive to America

2010 Hyundai Tucson makes the drive to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow20102010 hyunda tucson2010 hyundai2010 hyundai tucson2010Hyundai2010HyundaiTucson2010HyundaTucsonCrossoverCUVfluidic sculptureFluidicSculptureHyundaiHyundai CUVHyundai iX35Hyundai TucsonHyundai Tucson ixhyundai tucson ix35HyundaiCuvHyundaiGenesisHyundaiIx35HyundaiTucsonHyundaiTucsonIxHyundaiTucsonIx35Ix35HyundaiEuropala 2009la auto showla auto show 2009la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowtucsontucson ixtucson suvTucsonIxTucsonSuvThu, 03 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19253947/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/03/2010-hyundai-tucson-los-angeles-2009-debut/19253947/article-detail.xml 19253947 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/hyundatucsonla_000_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/hyundatucsonla_000_opt.jpg <![CDATA[LA 2009: Meet the "all-American" 2011 Kia Sorento]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-kia-sorrento-los-angeles-2009-all-american/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-kia-sorrento-los-angeles-2009-all-american/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2011-kia-sorrento-los-angeles-2009-all-american/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Kia Sorento- Click above for high-res image gallery

Perhaps the most important fact about the all new Kia Sorento isn't that it's a "right-sized" compact CUV. If Kia's boundless enthusiasm is any indication, the most important fact is that the 2011 Sorento is the first Kia designed and built in entirely in the USA. In fact, Kia claims that their all-new West Point, Georgia manufacturing plant will not only create 2,500 jobs (eventually - 1,200 for the moment), they say it is the most advanced Kia manufacturing facility in the world.

Then there's the vehicle they just started building in Georgia sixteen days ago, the 2011 Sorento. Kia's calling it "right-sized," and pointing out that Americans are leaving their biggie SUVs in droves and moving to CUVs, specifically compact CUVs. But not that compact - the Sorento is designed to sit five adults comfortably or seven full-size persons "occasionally." That's our kind of euphemism! The Sorento, however, is not just a schlepper. It's got a MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link suspension setup for the rear.

Coupled to a 276 horsepower V6 and an all-new built in-house six-speed automatic, the Sorento is able to get up and boogie a bit. Or at least as much as a top heavy CUV can boogie. Check out our First Drive of the Kia Sorento (a pre-production model from Korea) for more details. Long story short, a base Sorento will start at under $20,000 - about $1,500 less than the outgoing body-on-frame model.

Hyundai's making a big media push, taking out a Sorento ad in Times Square that will be visible when the ball drops on New Year's Eve. They're also put together a short commercial some of you may have seen in movie theaters over the weekend. This spot, featuring a young all-American boy on a bicycle, will be airing until January. Kia is also co-sponsoring the Chick-fil-A and the Outback college bowl games. As Kia mentioned repeatedly during the presentation, they feel the brand's got some momentum going. If the Sorento drives and works anywhere close to where Kia says it will, they might be right.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Kia Sorento


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sorento


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Jonny Lieberman / Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2009: Meet the "all-American" 2011 Kia Sorento originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Kia Sorento2011 Sorento2011KiaSorento2011SorentocrossoverCUVKiaKia crossoverKia SorentoKiaCrossoverKiaSorentoLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSorentoThu, 03 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19262792/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/03/2011-kia-sorrento-los-angeles-2009-all-american/19262792/article-detail.xml 19262792 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/2011-kia-sorento-live-630-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/2011-kia-sorento-live-630-la.jpg -1 2