Autoblog

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields

Chris Paukert — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've praised Suzuki's SX4 Crossover in these pages before. With its quasi-softroader abilities, surprisingly direct steering, segment-exclusive all-wheel drive and generous equipment levels, the cheap n' cheerful hatchback has carved out a unique niche for itself in the U.S. marketplace. What it has always needed, however, was a bit more power and better fuel economy.

For 2010, Suzuki has given it exactly that - but only just. An all-new, 16-valve, 2.0-liter four-cylinder has taken up residence under the hood, and it now achieves 150 horsepower (@ 6,200 rpm) and 140 pound-feet of torque (@ 3,500 rpm). Those figures represent increases of 7 hp and 4 lb-ft of torque, increases that we presume would be difficult for most drivers to detect without other changes to go along with them. Thankfully, Suzuki has also spent a few shekels on the SX4's gearbox range, and the standard-fit manual transmission gains an extra ratio (for a total of six), while the three-pedal averse will get a new paddleshift CVT - both units with rejiggered ratios to improve acceleration times as well as mileage scores. About that - Suzuki claims the SportBack manual will get 22 mpg city/30 highway, while the CVT will net 23/30. While these figures represent improvements, they still trail classmates like the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Aveo, though the Suzuki does offer more power.

On the outside, the SportBack has been dropped onto 17-inch, 50-series Dunlops, with a lowered, KYB-controlled suspension setup, and there's a new bumper and grille to go along with the car's revamped aero package that includes new side skirts, a rather meek front spoiler, and a tweaked rear spoiler. Interestingly, Suzuki claims that the 2010 alterations actually make the SportBack perform better than its own well-regarded Swift in various handling disciplines, including steering and yaw performance, skidpad, as well as braking. Light-duty off-roaders take note - the SportBack is really just a conventional compact, as it isn't available with all-wheel drive like its Crossover stablemate.

Inside, the Sportback gets an updated navi system that includes 3D graphics, lane guidance, as well as collateral information like weather mapping and airline arrivals/departures, and there's a new instrument cluster as well.

No word yet on pricing, but by way of guidance, the 2009 model-year SX4 Crossover (with its extra pair of driven wheels) commands $16,099. You can check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack

[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2010 Suzuki SX4 to gain front-drive SportBack trim, power boost

Chris Shunk — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Hatchback, Suzuki

Suzuki SX4 Crossover - Click above for high-res image gallery

Suzuki's upstart SX4 Crossover has continually surprised and delighted the automotive press with perky driving dynamics and nifty features like standard pop-up navigation. While we enjoyed the SX4 Sport we tested last year, we prefer the usability and all-wheel drive capability of the five door Crossover. AWD does add cost to the modestly priced SX4, though, and the added weight and parasitic drag have a negative impact on fuel economy.

Suzuki is reportedly further addressing that situation for the 2010 model year, as it is planning a front-drive SX4 hatch with SportBack trim. The front-drive SportBack, available only in Touring trim, will lose the Crossover's roof rack while gaining the sporty demeanor and lower ride height of the sedan.The Car Connection says that Suzuki will also raise the power output of the SX4's 2.0-liter engine across the range, bringing the stallion tally to 150. Without all-wheel drive, the SX4 SportBack will be lighter and more efficient, and without a roof rack, sitting lower to the ground, it figures to be more aerodynamic, too.

[Source: The Car Connection]

REPORT: 2010 Suzuki SX4 to gain front-drive SportBack trim, power boost originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models

Michael Harley — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Europe, BMW

2010 BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW introduced its first all-wheel drive 3 Series in the mid-80's, with an all-wheel drive variant of the 5 Series arriving on the scene several years later. Today, BMW has announced that its range-topping full-size 2010 7 Series sedan will finally get the automaker's all-wheel drive "xDrive" treatment. Designed with a rear torque bias to maintain rear-wheel drive handling characteristics, the all-season traction will be available on the turbocharged eight-cylinder models initially, as BMW has not announced any plans to adapt it to the V12-powered 760Li flagship. The standard model will be called the "750i xDrive" while the long-wheelbase model carries "750Li xDrive" nomenclature.

The Bimmer boys also announced the availability of the "M Sport Package" for all 7 Series models. The package includes lift-reducing aerodynamic cladding, shadowline trim, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), anthracite headliner, and 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber. If that isn't enough, BMW is also offering special Carbon Black Metallic exterior paint and 20-inch wheels for the new 2010 7 Series M Sport models. Full press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2010 BMW 7 Series

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BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2010 Subaru Legacy improves commercial appeal, retains character

Chris Paukert — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Subaru, First Drive

2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

For one reason or another, we've always thought that if you delved deep enough into the history of Subaru, you'd discover the Japanese automaker is, in fact, Swedish. One can imagine rifling through the company's dusty archives, only to discover that at some point in time, through some quirk of fate - or perhaps a common love of fish - Subaru was born in Scandinavia, yet it ended up turning Japanese (I really think so). Just look at the evidence: Quirky styling? Check. Steadfast adherence to left-field drivetrains? Check. Time-honored emphasis on honest utility? Check. Willfully different clientele base? Check. Good in winter? Uh-huh. Sound like any Swedish automakers we know?

There's one key difference between the Nipponese automaker and its kindred spirits over at Saab and Volvo, and it's a biggie: Subaru is making money, and they're picking up share. Year-to-date, Subie has lost just 1.8% of its sales year-over-year in America's wretched, turd-down-the-toilet economy. In this "flat is the new up" market, that's a stellar performance - far better than any other mainline automaker, including current industry darlings Hyundai/Kia. And after a day's drive in the firm's new-for-2010 Legacy, we think they're poised for even greater success. Follow the jump to find out why.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Subaru Legacy 2.5GT

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Subaru Legacy improves commercial appeal, retains character

First Drive: 2010 Subaru Legacy improves commercial appeal, retains character originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Patent search confirms Ferrari working on all-wheel drive hybrid

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 22 May 2009 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Performance, Green, Supercars, Ferrari

Ferrari all-wheel-drive hybrid patent images - Click above for an image gallery

We've known for quite some time that Ferrari was working on a hybrid sportscar, so it's not too surprising to see these patents for a new all-wheel-drive vehicle with hybrid propulsion filed by Ferrari back in February. The Italian automaker's documents suggest that this particular design is intended to "improve the drivability of a sports car in conditions of poor grip," not necessarily to improve the vehicle's overall environmental friendliness.

Ferrari outlines four possible ways it could introduce its hybrid technology and illustrates the design with six individual diagrams, which you can see below. In each of these possible designs, one set of wheels would be powered by the car's internal combustion engine through a locking differential, while the other set of wheels would be motivated by either a single electric motor or by two smaller in-wheel electric motors.

Ferrari believes a system such as this could provide the advantages of all-wheel drive while keeping the weight low and allowing the driver to choose standard rear-wheel drive when desirable. Of course, depending on the on-board batteries and electronics used in such a system, the car could potentially be powered solely on electricity under certain circumstances, reducing fuel consumption and lowering overall emissions. Click here to see the actual patent filing and check out the images in our gallery below.

Gallery: Ferrari all-wheel-drive hybrid patent images

[Source: European Patent Office via Autocar]

Patent search confirms Ferrari working on all-wheel drive hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Subaru Legacy to start from $20,690*

Chris Paukert — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Subaru

2010 Subaru Legacy - Click above for high-res image gallery

Subaru has just stuck a Monroney on its 2010 Legacy, and the new all-wheel drive sedan will start at $20,690 (*$19,995 + $695 destination). According to the Japanese automaker, that's a handy $800 less than last year's model. For that hard-earned dosh, you will receive a 2.5i model with its standard six-speed manual - the company's "Lineartronic" CVT model starts at a grand more. The base Legacy looks to be quite well equipped, but for those with the wherewithal, a 2.5i Premium model adds a bunch of content (including 16-inch alloys, leather-wrapped wheel, 10-way power driver's seat, etc.) for another $1,000 on top of the standard 2.5i model.

Gearheads will likely be most interested in the 2.5GT model, which includes a turbocharged 265-horsepower mill backed by a six-speed manual. For your $28,690 (including dest.), you'll get 18-inch alloys, a hood scoop, and all the features of the 2.5i Premium model. There's a Limited model, too, which adds a leather interior, power passenger seat, and a Harman/Kardon audio system, but selecting that model will relieve you of a tidy $30,690 at your local dealer.

Alternatively, if you prefer more relaxed six-cylinder motoring, there's the normally aspirated 256-horsepower 3.6R model, but you'll have to settle for a five-speed automatic with paddle-shift control. That model starts at $25,690 (which Subie notes is $1,600 less than the 3.0R exit vehicle), and this time out, it only requires 87 octane at the pump.

Key options include a $995 moonroof and a navigation package with Bluetooth, an upgraded 440-watt stereo w/USB port and a backup camera for $2,000.

Load luggers take note: There appear to be no wagons bound for the U.S. market (as in recent years), so you'll have to wait for word on 2010 Outback pricing if your life or your preferences dictate a two-box setup. For the moment, however, click through to the jump for the complete press release with more information, or check out our coverage of the Legacy's New York Auto Show debut by clicking here.

Gallery: New York: 2010 Subaru Legacy

Gallery: 2010 Subaru Legacy

Live Photos Copyright (C)2009 Alex Nunez / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Subaru]

Continue reading 2010 Subaru Legacy to start from $20,690*

2010 Subaru Legacy to start from $20,690* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW 335xi sedan on sale in March

John Neff — Wed, 15 Nov 2006 15:57:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Safety, BMW

BMW's twin-turbo, 3.0-liter inline-six is turning out to be as exciting an engine as the automaker's lauded 5.0-liter V10. Though its horsepower rating is down a couple hundie compared to the V10, the experience of dropping the hammer on a perfectly balanced inline-six that's sucking in more air than a Dyson upright is awesome (or so we've heard). The engine debuted in the 3-Series Coupe, followed by an appearance in the 3-Series Sedan, and finally we've learned when it will be taking up residence in the all-wheel drive 3-Series Sedan. The vehicle, known as the 335xi, will be available in March of 2007 according to this page on BMW's Military sales website. With 300 horsepower, all-wheel drive and BMW handling, the 335xi promises to be everything to everyone.

[Source: BMW via Straightline Blog]

BMW 335xi sedan on sale in March originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Nov 2006 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford Fusion AWD begins at $23,430

John Neff — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 13:34:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Safety, Ford

Ford announced today that its Fusion mid-size sedan equipped with all-wheel drive will have a base MSRP of $23,430 when it goes on sale at dealers this week. The upper level SEL model will base for $24,525. That base price comes in below its stable mate, the Mercury Milan AWD, which begins at $24,315. Ford is also touting that the Fusion AWD costs less than the Toyota Camry LE V6 ($23,960) and Honda Accord SE V6 ($23,945), essentially making the case that customers can get a Fusion with all-wheel drive for free at the same price as front-wheel driven competitors. While we won't dispute Ford on the facts, there's also the fact that the Camry's 3.5-liter V6 produces 268 horsepower and the Accord's 3.0-liter V6 produces 244 horsepower, compared with the Fusion's 3.0-liter V6 that produces only 221 horsepower. Couple the Fusion's less powerful engine with more weight and drivetrain components to turn, and we expect the Fusion AWD's performance will be near the back of the pack compared to its FWD competitors. It is still the case that this is a great price for an all-wheel drive mid-size sedan, especially after comparing the Fusion AWD's price to, say, a Subaru Legacy. While you can score a Legacy with AWD starting at $20,795 sans delivery charges, that model is powered by a significantly weaker 175-hp, 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder. If you want comparable power in the Legacy, you'll have to step up to the 2.5 GT Limited model that adds a turbo to produce 243 hp but starts at $28,295. So it seems like Ford has deftly filled a vacant niche for an inexpensive, V6-powered AWD sedan that, along with the Fusion's impecable quality to date, should translate into even more Fusion sales for the Blue Oval.

Ford's press release can be found after the jump.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford Fusion AWD begins at $23,430

Ford Fusion AWD begins at $23,430 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Oct 2006 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2006 Volvo S40 T5 AWD in the Autoblog Garage Day 5

John Neff — Wed, 03 May 2006 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Sedan, Mazda, Volvo

Much has been made in the comments about how much (or how little) the Volvo S40 and Mazda3 have in common. We think one particular comment by an Autoblog reader named Mike sums up our feelings on this debate: "Any comparison between the two must be coming from the unfamiliar." It's true, these two cars share a platform and various components but the job done differentiating them is far from badge reengineering. Their relationship is less Ford Five Hundred to Mercury Montego than it is Audi A4 to Volkswagen Jetta. We're talking more than a new grille and taillamps here.

The C1 chassis certainly cleans up well wearing Volvo's stubby-yet-strong proportions and Scandinavian interior, but does the S40's on-pavement prowess finally settle any qualms created by its potentially $30k-plus pricetag?

Continue reading 2006 Volvo S40 T5 AWD in the Autoblog Garage Day 5

2006 Volvo S40 T5 AWD in the Autoblog Garage Day 5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 May 2006 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2006 Volvo S40 T5 AWD in the Autoblog Garage Day 1-2

John Neff — Wed, 26 Apr 2006 13:52:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Sedan, Volvo

We in this country often complain that Europeans get their pick of fun-to-drive, premium compact cars while we're force fed SUVs and full-size trucks. The Volvo S40 is a rolling rebuttal to that argument. Europeans, however, have become accustomed to paying a premium for small cars that perform, handle and feel like a luxury car. Are North Americans ready to pay for the kind of small car they desire from afar, or is the grass growing in the cracks of the other guy's parking lot just greener?

Can a potent powerplant, all-wheel drive, Volvo's reputation for safety and the S40's attractive styling make a convincing case for a compact car that costs over thirty-thousand clams? Let's crank the S40's odd little plastic key and find out...

Continue reading 2006 Volvo S40 T5 AWD in the Autoblog Garage Day 1-2

2006 Volvo S40 T5 AWD in the Autoblog Garage Day 1-2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Apr 2006 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York Auto Show: Expect a lot from Suzuki's XL-7

John Neff — Fri, 14 Apr 2006 10:02:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, SUV, Suzuki

Suzuki is not yet ready to go quietly into the night, but rather is set to make a major comeback that will depend on the current churning of its lineup. The new Grand Vitara has already been well received and the now the XL-7, which will for the first time not look like a grander Grand Vitara, is ready to roll.

A Suzuki-built 3.6L V6 that produces 250 hp and 243 ft-lbs. of torque powers the XL-7 and can twist in front-wheel- or all-wheel-drive form. A five-speed automatic divides the proceeding power into digestible chunks while the hardware on a whole delivers fuel economy equal to or better than its predecessor that operated with one less liter of displacement.

The XL-7's interior features GM switchgear, which is fine with us since we liked these knobs, switches and dials in the Lucerne and Tahoe we've tested. As its name implies the XL-7 can seat seven if two of the more diminutive among you don't mind being with your kneecaps. Kids and pets back there only, please. Second-row legroom, however, is ample.

The exterior design of the XL-7 is interesting, particularly the headlights. The integrated turn signals that dip down make the brights look a bit like their mascara is running, but it seems to work if for no other reason that it doesn't look like the face of every other SUV on the road. Plus, despite the extra room over a Grand Vitara, you should still be able to pick up an XL-7 for between $23K - $29K.

Go ahead and follow the jump for more live shots, official snaps and Suzuki's announcement in its own words...

Continue reading New York Auto Show: Expect a lot from Suzuki's XL-7

New York Auto Show: Expect a lot from Suzuki's XL-7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Apr 2006 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford jumping on AWD opportunity

Joel Arellano — Thu, 30 Mar 2006 19:25:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Concept Cars, Trends, Sedan, SUV, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln

Ford Motor Co., surprised by the popularity of the AWD versions of its Ford Five Hundred, Freestyle, and the Mercury Montego, forecasts sales of such equipped vehicles from automakers to reach 500,000 a year with eighty percent to be crossover vehicles (SUV or CUV). The company has plans to jump on the opportunity.

"When Ford introduced the new AWD vehicles," says Robert Parker, car marketing manager for the Blue Oval, "demand outstripped supply during the initial launch. Customers saw that AWD really provided the best value for the dollar. Based on our experience with those cars, Ford has set about bringing the technology to a wider range of vehicles and expanding the consumers' choices."

The company will be releasing AWD versions of its Fusion/Milan/MKZ (formerly Zephyr) mid-sized sedans by 2007. Ford's foreign subsidiary Volvo offers AWD in most of its lineup while Mazda's Mazdaspeed6 comes standard in AWD. The feature will also be available on the company's upcoming lineup of CUVs.

[Source: Ford]

Ford jumping on AWD opportunity originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Mar 2006 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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