autoMedia Auto News Blog : Concept/future car

Quick Look: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi

Editor — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:11:00 GMT

Aggressively styled and pleasingly proportioned, Suzuki’s first two Kizashi concepts shared a powerful, aero-slick design theme characterized as “a dynamic athlete in motion.” They showed that its coming flagship sedan would be aimed at the emotional end of the scale. But Concept Kizashi 3 was tamer and more production realistic, looking much like the production version and demonstrating that Suzuki is serious about taking on the well-established entries in the U.S. market’s most competitive car class. Its stated mission: move the brand upscale “without abandoning Suzuki’s traditional emphasis on content and value.” The only engine for now is a willing 2.4-liter aluminum four good for 185 horses with a standard 6-speed manual transaxle, or five ponies fewer with the available continuously variable transmission (CVT). Rare in this size and price class, the option of Suzuki’s latest “intelligent” all-wheel-drive (i-AWD) improves both bad-weather traction and cornering capability. Suspension is reinforced MacPherson struts front and multi-link rear, developed, Suzuki says, on European surfaces ranging from urban cobblestones to twisty two-lanes to high-speed German Autobahns and even the...(read more)

All-new Ford Police Interceptor Coming in 2011

admin — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 03:22:00 GMT

Ford has announced a replacement for venerable Crown Victoria full-sized sedan will see service in 2011 as a police interceptor. Though details are slim, Ford has declared that it will have a purpose-built car ready for duty when Crown Vic production ends in late 2011. Ford has owned the police cruiser market for years, commanding 75 percent of the U.S. business. Chevrolet and Dodge have sold cars in spurts, but both the Impala and Charger have compromises compared to the roomy, rear-drive Crown Vic. Each year, Ford sells approximately 45,000 police vehicles, plus even more taxis. In developing the new car, Ford engineers have prioritized key vehicle attributes, such as safety, performance, durability, driver convenience, and comfort. The final shape and specs will be revealed next year, in ample time to court municipal business and allow for third-party outfitters to develop the essential gear to equip the sedans. This will also provide highway hooligans a chance to commit a new grille to memory. In the meantime, read " Drive Lika a Cop, Save Driving Tips ." See our last Ford Crown Victoria review ....(read more)

Sneak Peek: 2011 Volvo S60

admin — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 03:24:00 GMT

Volvo is continuing its recent tradition of giving very early looks at upcoming models with this 2011 Volvo S60 preview. The relatively curvaceous styling was first seen at the 2009 Detroit auto show , where the concept gave a clear indication of the production styling. (See the S60 concept .) From the front, it bears more than a passing resemblance to the XC70 , and it is aerodynamic enough to forever erase the connotation that Volvo design equates to the classic, darn-near-bulletproof 240 boxes. The production model will make its debut in March 2010 at the Geneva Motor Show, and the factory will begin building the new sedan the following summer in Belgium. Volvo previously indicated that the new 2011 S60 will be powered by a 1.6-liter/180-horsepower turbocharged, direct-injection engine. As seen on the concept car, the S60 is expected toboost fuel economy by using an auto start/stop function; twin manual gearboxes that work in tandem; electric steering; grille shutter to reduce aerodynamic drag; a DRIVe-Mode economy function that prioritizes a variety of functions to emphasize fuel economy; and flat under-chassis panels. The S60 will tout a new, potentially life-saving Volvo safety...(read more)

Charge! Cadillac Converj Plug-In Racing to Production

admin — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 02:36:00 GMT

Word has spilled from the Motor City via The Detroit News that General Motors will produce the Cadillac Converj extended-range electric car. For industry pundits, it seemed predestined that GM would offer a luxury sibling to the much ballyhooed Chevrolet Volt. By packaging the innovative drivetrain in a Cadillac model, GM can amortize the investment across more sales volume. Just as significantly, a Cadillac sports car can absorb the cost for the expensive battery packs, and it will make the Volt seem like an affordable, practical alternative, rather than the most expensive Chevrolet in history. First shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit , the Cadillac Converj served as the automaker’s grand finale. Product czar Bob “Maximum” Lutz at the time said if greenlighted, the production Converj would closely resemble the show vehicle. As you can see here, the Converj bears more than a family resemblance to the CTS Coupe , and it puts a sharp edge on luxury sportsters in general. Going green is fast becoming cool. The Volt is expected to go on sale by late 2010, so don’t look for a Cadillac version till 2011 at the earliest. Also see: Driving a Chevy Volt Test...(read more)

SEMA: Beyond Horsepower with "Making Green Cool" X PRIZE

Brandy Schaffels — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 23:23:00 GMT

A real treat for treehuggers was SEMA's "Making Green Cool" section which featured many of the vehicle finalists of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE. ...(read more)

Future Product Plans: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:23:00 GMT

Chrysler LLC hosted a multi-hour business plan meeting last week where the reborn automaker detailed its strategy for the next few years. Enabled by its new partner Fiat, Chrysler will consolidate platforms, expand product offerings, and aim to boost sales volume and profit. All while significantly increasing product quality. Sounds good so far. The basic breakdown begins with reducing the number of unique platforms. Aside from pickup trucks, Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep count 11 platforms today. For 2014, the aim is to use just six, and that includes expanding into the A/B subcompact/compact-car segments thanks to Fiat. The trick is to move C and D segment vehicles, including small and midsized crossovers and sedans, onto a single, versatile platform. The Jeep Wrangler will have the distinction of having its own platform. (There’s only one, as they say.) The large sedans, minivans, and larger SUVs will each ride on three distinct platforms. There are several tangible benefits to this strategy. Chrysler lost its engineering partner with Daimler divested its interests. While Chrysler continues to use variations of Mercedes platforms, access to such resources is finite going forward. New...(read more)

SEMA: Chevrolet Camaro Synergy Green Machine

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:22:00 GMT

The halls and exterior space surrounding the Las Vegas Convention Center was awash in customized, high-performance machines last week at the Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) show. Among the hundreds of project cars, the redesigned Camaro was well represented, with the 2010 Yenko Camaro , Lingenfelter Trans Am Concept , and twin-turbocharged Jay Leno Camaro all made their public debut. Among the many other show cars, the Camaro Synergy stood out as the ultimate green machine. Not, not some tree-huggin', hybrid, but literally green. While it may not have a celebrity name attached to it, this official Chevrolet project car showcases a striking new exterior color that will be available in the first half of 2010. Think of it as a counterpoint to the upcoming Plum Crazy Dodge Challenger . The Synergy also showcased a variety of add-on accessories being considered for market through the GM Performance Catalog and local dealerships. The makeover is handsome, with a ground effects kit, Cyber Grey hood stripes, high-wing rear spoiler, and 21-inch wheels with a black center. The car is further enhanced with aftermarket goodies that include a Peddars coil-over lowering kit and...(read more)

autoMedia CARnival 11-06-09: This week in Auto Blogs

Brandy Schaffels — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

It's the week ending November 6, and we've browsed our favorite automotive blogs all week long to gather the highlights from each. ...(read more)

Jay Leno Reveals Custom Camaro at SEMA

Brandy Schaffels — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 06:04:00 GMT

When Global Vice President of General Motors Design Ed Welburn pulled the silk off the final vehicle in a special event with a small amount of journalists on the first night of Sema, the guests were surprised to find none other than Jay Leno sitting behind the wheel. ...(read more)

Eye Candy: 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept

admin — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 02:49:00 GMT

Chevrolet has treated us virtually to a revised version of the 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept that debuted at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show . The original concept was also widely seen in “ Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen ” – at least by the movie goers not distracted by Megan Fox. In that FX-laden film, the concept played a minor role as “Sideswipe” and was clearly more than meets the eye. (Learn about the production Chevrolet Camaro Transformers Edition .) The original concept was developed as an internal design challenge to combine classic Corvette cues with high-tech features, modern materials, and a striking new appearance. Clearly, the mission was accomplished. The concept features a clamshell hood, scissor-style doors, ergonomic seats, rear-view camera with night vision enhancement, and a high-performance hybrid drive. How much this concept will influence the seventh-generation remains to be seen. Latest rumors about the C7 suggest the car will be smaller than the C6 , benefitting performance and fuel economy. We hope to see the revised concept on the show circuit this season. See our Chicago auto show highlights , and read our Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport and Z06...(read more)

autoMedia CARnival 10-30-09: This week in Auto Blogs

Brandy Schaffels — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:52:00 GMT

It's the week ending October 30, and we've browsed our favorite automotive blogs all week long to gather the highlights from each. First, it's too obvious to forget, but this weekend is Halloween, and there are sure to be lots of kidlets swarming the roads in costume on Saturday evening. AskPatty knows Halloween is the most dangerous day of the year for children to walk and offers up a selection of tips to help drivers do their part to keep trick-or-treaters safe from harm. Love this one: "Empire Strikes Back: White House calls out Edmunds on Clunkers story, Edmunds responds" The facts in the case of the White House versus Edmunds are essentially indisputable - but they are open for interpretation. Thanks to AutoBlog for summarizing this excellent -- and entertaining -- case of "He said, They said." Daylight savings time ends this weekend, be sure to take extra care when driving in residential neighborhoods and approaching intersections and stop signs as you adjust to the added darkness along your familiar roads. Automotive Traveler advises your children to be extra careful if they're walking in a parking lot or crossing the street as the sun sets...(read more)

Sketch: American-Made 2012 Volkswagen Sedan

admin — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 02:10:00 GMT

In a day for sketchy news, Volkswagen released this illustration depicting a new mid-sized sedan that will be production at its new factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Although designed with a focus on the American market, this sedan is expected to be exported. Priced in the $20s, the car is a key part of VW’s ambitious goals to significantly increase global sales. Annual production for this model is forecasted to be about 100,000 units. Looking like a cross between the Jetta and Passat, it could be a replacement for either. VW hasn't released any details just yet. More information is expected to be trickled out in coming months. Given the struggling economy Stateside, the best news here is the ongoing investment that will create factory and supplier jobs, trickling further revenue into the nearby communities. The sedan goes on sale in the U.S. late 2011. Read our current Jetta and Passat CC reviews, and research Volkswagen in the new car buyer's guide ....(read more)

Sneak Peek: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

admin — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 01:50:00 GMT

Acura will add a sport wagon version of its TSX sedan range in fall 2010 as a 2011 model. The automaker is mum on other details, but much can be inferred. Just as the TSX is based on the European-market Accord, the TSX Sport Wagon will be an Americanized Accord Tourer (shown here). Except for the rear cargo section, the interior is likely to carry over from the TSX. Same underhood, where a 2.4-liter, 201-horsepower four-cylinder and 3.5-liter, 280-horsepower V-6 should carry over. The overall package for the current car delivers an appealing balance of performance, driver-centric feel, high-tech amenities, just-right sizing, and competitive pricing. The same should hold true for the hatchback. The TSX sport wagon will probably make the show circuit rounds this coming season, before it competes against the Audi A4 Avant, BMW 3 Series , and Mercedes-Benz C-Class next fall. See our Acura TSX V6 and Acura TSX reviews ....(read more)

Automotive X Prize Announces Finalists

admin — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 02:50:00 GMT

The Progressive Insurance Automotive X Prize announced the 43 teams that will advance in its international competition to develop a marketable car that achieves 100 miles per gallone equivalent (MPGe). The teams are campaigning 53 vehicles total that have passed expert review for business plans and technical specifications. These vehicles will progress to the performance and safety testing in the spring as they compete for the $10 million prize. In total, almost 100 entries had been submitted for the contest. The finalists represent 18 states, 10 countries, and six fuel types, signaling the contest’s reach and diversity. Cars on hand at Manhattan’s Classic Car Club for the announcement included the narrow Amp Sky, Commuter Cars Tango, and three-wheel Zap Alias. At the event, X Prize also opened the registration for the DASH+ contest. Funded by a U.S. Department of Energy grant, this parallel competition challenges high schoolers to design the dashboard of the future. School teams can register at FuelOurFutureNow.com , where they can learn more about the related sciences involved in interior design. The qualified teams are listed below, along with their fuel or energy type. Mainstream...(read more)

Nissan LEAF EV to Make First U.S. Appearance in Los Angeles

Brandy Schaffels — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:34:00 GMT

Nissan has announced that its Nissan LEAF zero-emission, all-electric car will make its North American debut in Los Angeles on November 13. The Los Angeles showing will be the first time people in the United States will be able to see the five-passenger, five-door, gasoline-free car, as it begins its nationwide tour....(read more)