Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Land Rover planning entry-level 'baby' SUV?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Land Rover DC100

Autocar reports Land Rover may be mulling a new, inexpensive SUV to slot below the company's current offerings. John Edwards, global brand director for Land Rover, has confirmed his company's product planners are currently evaluating the viability of a baby SUV. Edwards says he scan see such a model performing well in several markets, but has yet to see a convincing business case for bringing the machine to life right now. Other premium manufacturers are seriously pushing into the small CUV market with vehicles like the upcoming Porsche Macan, BMW X1 and even the Mini Countryman.

If the small Land Rover were to come to fruition, we could expect the car to carry an MSRP of around 18,000 pounds in the UK, or around $27,500 in the US at current conversion rates. Autocar reports the machine would likely borrow design cues from the beefy-looking Land Rover DC100 Concept as well as the upcoming Defender replacement.

Land Rover planning entry-level 'baby' SUV? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby suvcuvland roverland rover cuvTue, 09 Apr 2013 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/20534878/article-detail.xml 20534878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/land-rover-dc100_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/land-rover-dc100.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan teases Resonance Concept, possible Murano successor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/nissan-teases-resonance-concept-possible-murano-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/nissan-teases-resonance-concept-possible-murano-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/10/nissan-teases-resonance-concept-possible-murano-successor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Not wanting to be left out of the teaser fun that comes before the Detroit Auto Show - don't forget amidst all this obscured-view hubbub that the actual show starts next week Monday - Nissan has deposited this partial image of what it is calling the Resonance Concept on its Facebook page. Save for letting us know that the real deal will be unveiled on January 15, no information has been given in concert with the mysterious picture.

Given the distinctly crossover-esque shape of the rendered vehicle, it's a pretty good guess that the Resonance will preview the design direction for either a new Murano or Rogue, with our money being on the former. Expect the concept to feature a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, and some truly impressive LED real estate on its backside. Much more info to come next week - live from the floor of Cobo.

Nissan teases Resonance Concept, possible Murano successor originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto showconcept carcrossovercuvdetroitdetroit 2013muranonissan resonance conceptresonance conceptrogueteaserThu, 10 Jan 2013 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20425319/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/10/nissan-teases-resonance-concept-possible-murano-successor/20425319/article-detail.xml 20425319 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/nissan-resonance-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/nissan-resonance-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lincoln MKC crossover headed for Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fresh off the launch of the stylish new MKZ sedan, the newly named Lincoln Motor Company is reportedly preparing for a lineup expansion. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, the first new product joining the Lincoln brand is a small crossover based on the Ford Escape said to be called the MKC. We saw this machine testing a few months ago, and while we were hoping the name might be reserved for a future two-door model or even the diminutive Concept C hatchback, it looks like the "C" will stand for compact crossover instead.

The report also says that this crossover will be making its debut next month at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, so we'll have to wait until then to see what the new model looks like. Unlike the MKX, which is based off the Ford Edge, we would expect there to be a lot more differentiation between the MKC and the Escape like Ford managed to do with the newest Fusion and MKZ.

In addition to the new MKC, the article states new MKS and Navigator designs are expected to debut by 2014.

Lincoln MKC crossover headed for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto show2014 lincoln mkccuvdetroitdetroit 2012escapelincolnlincoln crossoverlincoln motor companyluxury crossovermkcWed, 19 Dec 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20406146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/19/lincoln-mkc-crossover-headed-for-detroit/20406146/article-detail.xml 20406146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lincoln-mkd-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lincoln-mkd-1-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen confirms 7-seater and baby crossover coming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/18/volkswagen-confirms-7-seater-and-baby-crossover-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/18/volkswagen-confirms-7-seater-and-baby-crossover-coming/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/18/volkswagen-confirms-7-seater-and-baby-crossover-coming/#commentsFiled under: ,



We've been hearing rumors and reports about a seven-passenger crossover or SUV from Volkswagen, dating back to 2008. Now it seems like the German automaker could be closer than ever to offering such a vehicle. This new utility vehicle has now been mentioned twice by two different VW representatives since the Paris Motor Show wrapped up; first by CEO Martin Winterkorn in the Automotive News and now by Peter Thul, head of brand and product communications for VW AG, in Bloomberg.

Both recent interviews indicate that this new model will be bigger than the Tiguan, and Thul's comments confirmed that it would be a three-row, seven-passenger model. Even more detail: Thul said the new model would be aimed solely at the American market as more of a minivan replacement than an off-roader, so it is likely this is going to be an entirely new model rather than a stretched version of the Touareg. The Straightline Blog indicates this crossover could be based off the US-spec Passat which matches up with Winterkorn's earlier comments mentioning the possibility that this new vehicle is the best candidate to be built at the Chattanooga assembly plant.

Another upcoming model that likely won't be headed to the US is a subcompact crossover that will be positioned below the compact Tiguan. We expect to learn more about these new crossovers over the next year, but both should really help VW attain its goal of topping General Motors and Toyota to become the number one automaker around the globe by 2018.

Volkswagen confirms 7-seater and baby crossover coming originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Oct 2012 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercuvmartin winterkornpeter thulseven-passenger cuvvolkswagenvwThu, 18 Oct 2012 17:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20353062/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/18/volkswagen-confirms-7-seater-and-baby-crossover-coming/20353062/article-detail.xml 20353062 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/vwlaweucourt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/vwlaweucourt.jpg <![CDATA[Audi's new Quattro Coupe may be Evoque-style CUV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/audis-new-quattro-coupe-may-be-evoque-style-cuv/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/audis-new-quattro-coupe-may-be-evoque-style-cuv/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/04/audis-new-quattro-coupe-may-be-evoque-style-cuv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



This is sad news, depending on how you look at it. According to UK magazine Car, Audi will not produce a road-going version of the terrific Quattro Concept, first seen at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. Since its debut, we have driven it, we have loved it and now it seems we will not see a production version of it.

Apparently, Audi believes that the performance coupe market is reaching the point of saturation, with less room than ever for the concept that the car guy world seemed to excited to see.

That there will not be a production version of the Quattro Concept may not stop Audi from using the moniker to name a compact crossover, however. It would not be as tall as a normal CUV, rather Car predicts that it could take the form of a 2-door crossover, à la the Range Rover Evoque Coupe. Possibly to be named "Q-Coupe," potential motivation could be a five-cylinder turbo, sending power through an S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox to the eponymous Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Considering the recent rollout of Audi CUV concepts, such as the RS Q3 at the Beijing show and the Audi Crosslane Coupe in Paris, this is a real possibility. The Ur-Quattro itself rode higher off the ground than your standard sport coupe at the time. In that regard, a coupe/CUV would have more in common with the original than the ground-hugging Quattro Concept.

Hey, if Audi can make compact crossover coupe that tears up a dirt road with even a fraction of the gusto of the Ur-Quattro, as it dispatched rally stages, we would say, "job well done."

Audi's new Quattro Coupe may be Evoque-style CUV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Oct 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi quattro conceptcompact crossovercrossover coupecuvquattro conceptThu, 04 Oct 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20340726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/04/audis-new-quattro-coupe-may-be-evoque-style-cuv/20340726/article-detail.xml 20340726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/lead-audi-quattro-concept-drive_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/lead-audi-quattro-concept-drive.jpeg <![CDATA[Lexus working on sub-RX crossover, more hybrids?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/lexus-working-on-sub-rx-crossover-more-hybrids/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/lexus-working-on-sub-rx-crossover-more-hybrids/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/lexus-working-on-sub-rx-crossover-more-hybrids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lexus RX450h

Yes, we know saying, "Lexus is considering more hybrids," is about as obvious as predicting the company's next model will have wheels, but TheDetroitBureau.com reports the automaker expects to offer buyers a total of eight hybrid models by 2015.

Mark Templin, Lexus general manager, recently took the time to detail some of the more interesting projects looming in the automaker's future, and while specifics on the next batch of hybrid vehicles are still missing, Templin did say Lexus has its heart set on going after the CUV segment more aggressively. That means we will likely see the Toyota luxury arm crank out a new model to slot below the current RX.

When will that happen, exactly? No time soon, from the sound of things. Templin underscored the fact that the RX is currently the best-selling luxury CUV on the market. Lexus sees no need to rock the boat with a newcomer just yet.

Lexus is also mulling the possibility of adding another supercar to its mix, based loosely on the LFC. Templin said the LF-LC Concept received a warm welcome by show goers in Detroit, and with the LFA all but sold out, decision makers are currently weighing the necessity of bringing about a successor. Cross your fingers.

Lexus working on sub-RX crossover, more hybrids? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercuvlexuslexus cuvlexus hybridrxsub-rxTue, 14 Aug 2012 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20298554/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/14/lexus-working-on-sub-rx-crossover-more-hybrids/20298554/article-detail.xml 20298554 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lexus-rx450h_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/lexus-rx450h.jpg <![CDATA[Help us identify this mystery crossover spotted in Michigan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/help-us-identify-this-mystery-crossover-spotted-in-michigan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/help-us-identify-this-mystery-crossover-spotted-in-michigan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/help-us-identify-this-mystery-crossover-spotted-in-michigan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mystery CUV spy shots - front three-quarter view

This is the part of the post where we usually make confident statements about the brand-new vehicle that our intrepid spy photographers have just caught. But this time, we'll be honest: We have no idea what the heck this thing is.

Some discussion 'round the proverbial Autoblog water cooler suggests that this could be, well, just about anything. The roofline and sloping D pillar looks awfully similar to the Infiniti EX, though looking at the profiles side by side, it just doesn't seem quite right, and the ride height and wheel choice suggests a less premium and less performance-oriented vehicle. We can also see some Subaru influence here - maybe a smaller Tribeca replacement?

The only real details we can make out are the sleek, jeweled headlamps that appear to have an LED running light strip. Around back, the taillamps mimic the same sort of design. The one major design cue that's throwing us off is that front fascia - it looks decidedly European, which leads us to believe that this could just be a not-for-our-market prototype.

Our spies point out that this type of camouflage is normally seen on Hyundai or Kia vehicles, but even that seems like it could be a stretch - we normally see more puffy pads on the hoods and such. Even so, considering the fact that this... thing was caught pulling into an automotive supplier's facility in southeast Michigan, it could be pretty much anything - it might not even be from a manufacturer that sells cars in North America.

Scroll through the attached image gallery to see the mystery crossover for yourself, and then head to Comments to give us your best guess.

Help us identify this mystery crossover spotted in Michigan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossovercuvhyundaiinfinitimystery crossoverspy photosspy picsspy shotspy shotssubaruMon, 02 Jul 2012 10:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20270268/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/02/help-us-identify-this-mystery-crossover-spotted-in-michigan/20270268/article-detail.xml 20270268 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-mystery-cuv-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-mystery-cuv-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jonathan Browning - Volkswagen NA CEOWe've already heard word that Volkswagen may be considering a new Alltrack version of its Jetta for the North American Market, but TheDetroitBureau.com reports the automaker is also looking at other high-riding options. Jonathan Browning, Volkswagen Group of America CEO, says a new mid-sized SUV may show up in the lineup alongside the next-generation Tiguan (which itself is likely to get a trio of variants). The unnamed model would fit below the Touareg in size and price and would likely be co-developed engineers in the U.S. and those in another part of the world. So, when can we expect to see the model? Development is currently in its earliest stages, which means we'll have to wait until 2015 at the earliest.

Meanwhile, Browning makes it clear Volkswagen is also keen to flesh out its lineup with other new models, including a new mid-sized sedan. A sub-Golf offering may also show up from Europe, which means the automaker may bring over either the Polo or the new Up! micro car. The blossoming stable is part of an effort to keep the company's recent sales growth on track. Volkswagen has made it clear the company wants to triple its companywide sales by 2018.

VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceocrossovercuvjonathan browningsuvtiguantouaregvolkswagenvolkswagen ceovolkswagen tiguanvolkswagen touaregFri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20248507/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/20248507/article-detail.xml 20248507 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628.jpg <![CDATA[Is Chevy poised to get a version of the Buick Encore?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/is-chevy-poised-to-get-a-version-of-the-buick-encore/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/is-chevy-poised-to-get-a-version-of-the-buick-encore/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/is-chevy-poised-to-get-a-version-of-the-buick-encore/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Chevrolet Encore

It looks as if General Motors may be considering a Chevrolet version of the Buick Encore. L'Automobile Magazine managed to source a few patent drawings depicting the vehicle with a Chevrolet face. If our Google translator and murky comprehension of the French language are to be trusted, the images originated in the European patent office. All told, the model is likely to be a little more than a foot shorter than the current Equinox but still offer buyers the option of all-wheel drive.

So, is this vehicle headed to the U.S.? It's entirely possible. While GM already has a platform heavy with crossover vehicles, the truth is the company could use a smaller model to compete with the likes of the Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.

Odds are the smaller Chevrolet CUV would be targeted at European and Asian markets, including China, though there's a chance the vehicle could also show up as a Canadian-spec model. L'Automobile seems to also suggest the baby hatch could also play a role in the new partnership between Citroen and GM.

Is Chevy poised to get a version of the Buick Encore? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickbuick encorechevroletchevrolet cuvcitroencuvencoreopel mokkaTue, 27 Mar 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202089/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/is-chevy-poised-to-get-a-version-of-the-buick-encore/20202089/article-detail.xml 20202089 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-chevrolet-encore-patent-drawings-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-chevrolet-encore-patent-drawings-628.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover mulling sub-LR2 "leisure" model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/land-rover-mulling-sub-lr2-leisure-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/land-rover-mulling-sub-lr2-leisure-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/14/land-rover-mulling-sub-lr2-leisure-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque front dead-on view

Land Rover has made no secret of the fact that the company aims to flesh out its stable between now and 2017 with the addition of around 40 new model variants. Now Inside Line has given us the first hint of what the first of those models may bring to the table. According to reports, the company is in the beginning stages of developing a new leisure range to slot below the current LR2. Details are scarce at the moment, but the vehicle will reportedly be the smallest Land Rover to wear the company's badge if it gets the nod for production.

The company also intends to give hardware like the LR2 and LR4 a significant update with freshened exteriors and interiors that are more carlike in an attempt to lure in more buyers.

Land Rover is likely hoping to replicate the warm reception of the Range Rover Evoque in a less expensive, more accessible package. Sounds good to us.

Land Rover mulling sub-LR2 "leisure" model originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cuvland roverland rover cuvland rover lr2lr2new land rover modelWed, 14 Mar 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20192351/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/14/land-rover-mulling-sub-lr2-leisure-model/20192351/article-detail.xml 20192351 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/range-rover-evoque-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/range-rover-evoque-628.jpg <![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 -1 2