autoMedia Auto News Blog : SUV

Ford Introduces Inflatable Seat-Belt Airbag

admin — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:03:00 GMT

Today, Ford introduced an to provide rear passengers with airbag protection. The airbags are concealed within special shoulder belts. Once deployed, the disperse the force over a wider area than a conventional belt, thereby reducing injury risks. Ford points to the benefits for children and the elderly, two groups that commonly ride in the second-row and are especially vulnerable to injury. (Read “ The Dilemma of Older Drivers .”) In the event of a crash, the airbag deploys in 40 milliseconds. This is notably slower than a traditional front airbag, since the device does not need to close a gap between the belt and the occupant. After all, it is already in contact with the passenger. As it expands, the rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts; this helps reduce pressure on the chest and helps control head and neck. The seat-belt airbag system will be first offered on the redesigned 2011 Ford Explorer, and it will be made available on other FoMoCo vehicles after that launch. See the top-10 car safety systems . Learn more about car safety ....(read more)

Toyota, Lexus Floor Mat Saga Continues with NHTSA Insights

admin — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 02:35:00 GMT

Findings from a federal investigation into the fatal car crash that led to Toyota recalling 3.8 million vehicles point to a possible link between floor mats and accelerator pedal design, according to the Los Angeles Times . The Times reports that analysis by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) “draws no conclusions” about the August accident that was the catalyst for the safety advisory and the automaker's largest-ever recall, but it does make key observations highlighted below. The report surfaced by the LA Times is an important milestone, but the investigation continues. The agency has not yet reviewed information stored on the electronic data recorder, which should provide further insight into the operating conditions at time of time at triple-digit speeds. That said, the findings thus far do paint clearer picture of the conditions that lead to this tragedy and even suggests a possible solution, should the pedal design be officially named a causal factor. What we know thus far: The Lexus ES 350 driven by an off-duty California Highway Patrol officer, with three family members as passengers, had been a dealer loaner. The Lexus was fitted with all-weather...(read more)

New: 2010 Nissan Rogue Krom Edition

admin — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 15:57:00 GMT

Nissan is offering a Krom edition for the 2010 Rogue , giving the compact SUV line a sportier variant with cosmetic attitude. Pronounced “chrome,” the Krom concept has been previously applied to the Nissan Cube , giving the asymmetrical box a version with street-cred to rival the Scion xB. (See our Scion xB, Kia Soul, Nissan Cube Gen-Y crossover comparison .) With the Rogue, the Krom package sharpens the body with a unique grille and front fascia fitted with fog lamps, rear fascia with center-exit exhaust routing, body-colored rear spoiler, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The side mirrors are body colored, and the rear windows are finished with darkened privacy glass. Obligatory badging further announces its presence. Inside, the modifications are limited to steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The Krom edition is available on front- and all-wheel drive models, and it is offered in Venom Red, Wicked Black, and Gotham Gray paint. It goes on sale in December 2009. The Rogue carries over relatively unchanged for 2010, aside from the Krom edition and a new 360-degree value package for the Rogue S with unique 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview mirror rearview...(read more)

SEMA: Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty Concept

admin — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 09:23:00 GMT

This year, Jeep has announced four vehicles will be introduced at SEMA, including the Dodge Challenger 1320 Drag Pak, upscale Dodge Ram Bianco, Jeep Wrangler Overland camp-anywhere concept, and the Jeep Wrangler Lower Forty....(read more)

2010 Honda Element Gets Dog Friendly

admin — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 01:08:00 GMT

The long-running Honda Element has been well-suited to active lifestyles from day one, with its cavernous interior, suicide-style doors, split rear hatch, and easy-to-clean interior, among the many distinctive attributes. For 2010. Honda is expanding its appeal with a $995 Dog Friendly package that bundles together custom gear to make travel with a canine companion safer, more convenient, and even more comfortable for Fido. Central to the package is a nylon-webbed car kennel that can keep the dog comfortably restrained in the cargo area, providing protection to the pooch and ostensibly other passengers in an accident. An included ramp can ease loading and unloading, as well as lead to teaching the dog a basic agility trick. Available only on the EX trim level, the Dog Friendly package includes: A soft-sided cargo area car kennel made from seat belt-grade netting. A cushioned pet bed in the cargo area with an elevated platform. A 12V DC rear ventilation fan. Second-row seat covers with a dog pattern design (matches the bed fabric). An extendable ramp (stores under the pet bed platform). All-season rubber floor mats with a toy bone pattern. A spill-resistant water bowl. Dog Friendly exterior...(read more)

2010 Toyota 4Runner – More Capable, Priced Less

admin — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 01:22:00 GMT

The all-new, fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner is incrementally larger, more powerful, more capable off-road, and $1,000 less than last year’s model.

The 2010 4Runner will be offered in three grades: the top-of-the-line Limited, value based yet well-equipped SR5, and an all-new Trail grade (shown here) aimed at outdoor adventurers who require maximum off-road capability. Pricing ranges from $27,500 for the SR5 grade 4x2 with a four-cylinder engine to $39,800 for the Limited grade 4x4 V6. Despite improvements and added equipment, the MSRP for the most popular 4Runner, the SR5 4x4 V6, remains the same as the previous generation at $30,915.

As with the third-generation, the new 4Runner offers a choice of four- and six-cylinder engine. The 2.7-liter inline four produces 157 horsepower and 178 lbs.-ft. of torque – notably 22 horsepower less than the RAV4. With a four-speed automatic transmission, this base four returns 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. For more grunt, the 4.0-liter V-6 products 270 horsepower and 278 lbs.-ft. of torque. Compared against the previous, the new V-6 engine produces 34 horsepower more and 10 horsepower more than the optional V-8. (See our fourth-gen 4Runner review.)

To aid off-pavement excursions, the 4Runner is available with a range of traction-enhancing systems. All 4x4 models feature Active Traction Control (A-TRAC). Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is also standard on SR5 and Limited 4x4 models, and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) is standard on all V6 models.

The Trade Grade adapts the Crawl Control (CRAWL) system from the Land Cruiser, enabling the vehicle to creep along at an appropriate speed that keeps the vehicle under control and minimizes the load on drivetrain and suspension components while traversing difficult terrain. Trail Grade also features Multi-Terrain Select system that allows the driver to select a 4x4 suited for the conditions, such as sand or rocks, akin to what has been offered on some Jeep and Land Rover models. For tackling extreme trails, an optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) can disconnect the stabilizer bars for increased suspension articulation.

As 4Runners typically spend most of their life on paved roads, Toyota has stepped up the safety gear to include eight standard air bags, including front driver and passenger knee air bags and side-curtain air bags to protect all three seating rows. Also standard is stability control, traction control, antilock brakes, and brake assist. Limited models include Toyota's all-new telematics service, Safety Connect.

The 4Runner V-6 models will arrive in dealerships late October, with the four-cylinder to arrive in January 2010.

2011 Kia Sorento – Larger, More HP

admin — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:38:00 GMT

The 2011 Kia Sorento follows its competitors into the car-based crossover market, leaving behind its rear-drive heritage that made it entertaining in the dirt. The new Sorento is longer and wider than the model it replaces, opening space to accommodate three rows of passengers, while offering more head and legroom.

The larger vehicle steps it up with packaging, with an AM/FM/Sirius/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary and USB audio input jacks and Bluetooth connectivity. Available push button-start ignition, voice-activated navigation, rear sonar and back-up camera, and air ionization purification technology will help position the Sorento above the Sportage.

Two engines will be offered: a 2.4-liter, 172-horsepower four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter, 273-horsepower V-6. Both mills will be matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, and available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. These powerplants and size should give the Sorento an edge over the sales-leading Honda CR-V and position it well against the popular Toyota RAV4.

The Sorento will be the first vehicle built at the new West Point, Georgia, factory. The 2011 Sorento goes on sale in January 2010.

Read our review of the current Kia Sorento. Research Kias in the new car buyer’s guide.

Frankfurt: Toyota Land Cruiser – A Big Tease

admin — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 02:13:00 GMT

This will admittedly be a tease, but Toyota has taken the wraps off its next-generation Land Cruiser. No, not the bloated behemoth sold in the United States, but the leaner version sold overseas that may come to America in Lexus GX form. This new Land Cruiser builds upon a 60-year heritage, combining unflappable off-road performance with modern comforts and conveniences.

The latest Land Cruiser can tackle the most challenging trails with a new Multi-terrain Select system that automatically controls power and braking to optimize performance for different types of off-road surfaces. At the same time, the Multi-terrain monitor feeds real-time images from around the vehicle from a network of four cameras to provide the driver with more information about the immediate surroundings—a boon to rock crawlers, forest explorers, and playground-bound parents. As seen to great effect with Land Rover vehicles, the Cruiser will have a steering angle display to help the driver plot a safe, effective route.

When the trail becomes gnarly, a Crawl Control feature lets the driver choose from five different setting to optimize vehicle set-up, without having to use the throttle or brake pedals. This tenderfoot-focused system would be particularly appreciated when trying to free the vehicle from near-tractionless mud or sand.

Hanging from the stiffened frame is a front wishbone, rear multilink suspension available with a new electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which adjusts the anti-roll bars to enhance on and off-road performance. The flagship model gets Toyota’s Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, which lets the driver tune the ride characteristics with a choice of three damper settings. An electronically controlled rear air suspension system works with the AVS, providing an auto-leveling function and selectable height control.

Powertrains include a 3.0-liter, 171-horsepower diesel, though a 4.0-liter V-6 will be offered in certain European markets.

Inside, the five- or seven-seat cabin is home to the usual array of amenities. A key trick is the powered flat-folding seats that can be leveled with the press of a button.

Yes, this does sound like a compelling vehicle, especially with the thrifty diesel powerplant boasting more than 30 mpg overall. As a consolation prize, Toyota will be introducing its all-new 4Runner for the United States in about a week. Stay tuned.

For a great off-roader, read our Toyota FJ Cruiser review.

Updated: 2010 Honda CR-V – More Power, Fresh Face

admin — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 01:53:00 GMT

Honda has treated the ever-popular CR-V to a midlife freshening that brings an updated front fascia, interior refinements, more power, and improved fuel economy. The styling changes signal the 2010 CR-V with a new bumper, grille, and hood, along with a rear bumper update. The previous seven-spoke wheels are replaced with 10-spoke rims.

Under that new hood comes a 14-horsepower increase to 180 hp from the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This is a surprisingly move, as Honda is known for not changing their engines. However, the CR-V has been in service for a generation and half in 166-hp form. This change is welcomed, especially as it carries a 1 mpg increase for city and highway EPA ratings in both 2WD and AWD versions.

Inside, Honda has made numerous tweaks that reflect customer feedback with items such as wider arm rests, interior door handle redesign with a rubberized grip handle, and dark brown carpet to replace the stain-showing light brown. The audio system now uses blue backlighting, and top trim models gain a compass. The CR-V EX-L (navigation and non-navigation models) gain a USB audio interface for direct access to music files on compatible devices using the vehicle's existing controls. Ideally, this feature would trickle down to the less-affordable variants.

In total, the 2010 Honda CR-V improves upon the formula that led the CR-V to being the best-selling SUV in 2008. And that’s a good thing. Prices start at $21,545 for the CR-V LX 2WD, increasing to $23,845 for the EX 2WD, and top-out at $29,745 for the EX-L AWD with navigation.

Read our Honda CR-V review.

GM Axes Buick Crossover Plug-In Hybrid

admin — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 03:10:00 GMT

No one likes to have their children criticized, but General Motors took to heart feedback it received at a recent future product showcase held for employees, potential customers, dealers, media, analysts, and others. (Read: “25 in 24: GM Reveals New Models for its Core Brands.”)

The diverse panel were very interested in the future Chevrolet Aveo, Spark, and Cruze, and it even lauded the upcoming Cadillac line. However, a Buick crossover expected to go into production in 2011 was not well received. The vehicle was a badge-engineered next-generation Saturn Vue, notable for offering a plug-in hybrid variation. While this sounds like a slam-dunk, those who have seen it feel otherwise. And GM is responding to the feedback. Word has it that the two-mode hybrid powertrain will live on in another vehicle.

GM Vice Chairman Tom Stephens said:

“The Buick crossover we showed received consistent feedback from large parts of all the audiences that it didn’t fit the premium characteristics that customers have come to expect from Buick.”

You may recall that this was the Buick compact crossover I announced in Traverse City a few weeks ago, with a plug-in hybrid version to accompany it — this is not the smaller Buick crossover we showed that was playfully referred to as ‘the baby Enclave.’ That vehicle did very well and remains in the lineup.”

We were all struck by the consistency of the criticism of the compact crossover. And what we decided to do in response is a good example of the essence of the new General Motors… acting quickly, and boldly, and listening to feedback from customers, employees, dealers, media and just about anyone else with an opinion.”

There it is, the New GM making bold moves and working to ensure fewer weak links in the product line. Sounds like the Pontiac Aztek may not happen again. Phew.

25 in 24: GM Reveals New Models for its Core Brands

Brandy Schaffels — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:04:00 GMT

One month after it emerged from bankruptcy, General Motors reintroduced itself on Tuesday by revealing to journalists an array of all-new cars, crossovers, and trucks that will be debuting now through 2011. Watch a repeat of the webcast at this link.

Among the many offerings, GM President and CEO Fritz Henderson also confirmed that Cadillac is developing an entry premium sport coupe to capitalize on the growing market for smaller luxury vehicles in the U.S. and globally. The rear- and optional all-wheel drive ATS model will launch as a coupe to compete in the segment below the CTS, promising outstanding performance and driving dynamics. A sedan variant will arrive later.

At GM's Design Center and Milford Proving Ground, GM promised 25 new products in the next 24 months, and previewed six all-new 2010 vehicles as well as a glimpse of what will be introduced through the end of 2011:

Chevrolet alone will be releasing 10 new models, including the 2011 Volt (due Q4 2010), the miniscule Spark hatchback (debuted at the 2007 New York Auto Show and currently on sale in Asia, due Q1 2012), the next-gen Aveo, the compact Cruze sedan (due Q3 2010), the seven-seat Orlando crossover SUV, the Corvette Grandsport which outfits the current Corvette powertrain with the sporty appearance of the Z06, the completely redesigned next-gen Malibu, and a Camaro convertible (due Q2 2011).
Buick and GMC are adding 10 new entries. In addition to the lovely new 2010 LaCrosse sedan and library-quiet Enclave SUV on sale now, Buick will introduce a plug-in hybrid compact crossover in 2011 developed from the Saturn Vue, a brand-new small crossover "Baby Enclave" similar in size to the now-retired Pontiac Vibe, and a compact sedan promising premium content without a premium price. The Buick showcase was most intriguing, but because they sealed up the lenses of all our cameras with orange tape when we entered, I was unable to even sneak any blurry spy photos with my cell phone cam.
Cadillac is introducing five new models through 2011, and will be expanding its CTS lineup to include a sport wagon, the small ATS coupe and sedan, a gorgeous XTS full-size sedan that will replace the STS and DTS models, and the SRX crossover.

Repeating a familiar focus point of the new General Motors, Henderson emphasized the company's commitment to producing quality vehicles and an increased focus on customer satisfaction. "The key to restarting this company lies with GM's customers, cars and culture," Henderson said. "With four focused brands, we are committed to exceeding our current customers' expectations and giving consumers plenty of reasons to choose a Chevy, Buick, GMC or Cadillac car or truck."

Want to find out more about these vehicles? Check out more Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC products in the autoMedia.com Buyer's Guide.

By Brandy Schaffels, autoMedia.com Contributing Editor

Pricing: 2010 Toyota Avalon, FJ Cruiser, Highlander, RAV4, Tacoma, Yaris

admin — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 01:54:00 GMT

As fall approaches, so do the the 2010 models. Toyota has released pricing on several vehicles, revealing minor increases and in some cases no changes.

Avalon - Toyota's flagship sedan adds rear-passenger auto up/down windows and one new exterior color, Sandy Beach Metallic, for 2010. The base MSRP for the 2010 Avalon ranges from $27,945 for the XL to $35,285 for the Limited, an increase of $100, or 0.3-0.4 percent.

FJ Cruiser - The mighty 2010 FJ Cruiser is treated to several upgrades, including dual VVT-i and roller rocker arms on the 4.0-liter V6. Together, the enhancements add 19 horsepower and more significantly also give the off-road warrior a one mpg increase. Minor suspension changes reduce the turning radius by more than a foot, and a new Army Green exterior color is offered. The base MSRP for FJ Cruiser will range from $23,680 for the 2WD automatic to $25,270 for the 4WD automatic, an increase of $360, or 1.4-1.5 percent.

Highlander - The 2010 Highlander Hybrid carries over unchanged for 2010, but the traditional Highlander adds an available backup monitor on the multi-informational display for the Base grade V6, and a power tilt/slide moonroof for the Base grade four-cylinder. Both versions hold the line on pricing, with the base price starting at $25,705 for the base four-cylinder 2WD and ranging to $41,020 for the Limited 4WD hybrid model.

RAV4 – Pricing remains unchanged for the RAV4, spanning from $21,500 for the base model 2WD four-cylinder to $27,810 for the 4WD Limited V6, though there are minor styling enhancements.

Tacoma – The popular compact pickup truck carries over unchanged except for… wait for it… an enhancement to the front cup-holder functionality. The pricing remains $15,170 for the Regular Cab with a five-speed manual transmission and extends to $27,075 for the V6 4x4 Double Cab Long Bed with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Yaris – The miserly subcompact adds standard stability control and traction control for a modest $150 price increase. Yaris base MSRP goes from $12,355 for the three-door model with manual transmission, to $13,915 for the four-door sedan with an automatic transmission.

These figures do not include the $750 destination charges. These models begin arriving at dealerships in August.

Read our Avalon, FJ Cruiser, Highlander, RAV4, Tacoma, and Yaris reviews.

Acura Reveals Restyled, Revised MDX for 2010

Editor — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:21:00 GMT

Acura announced today changes to their quintessential MDX SUV for the 2010 model year. Updates include a revised grille, a new hood and front fascia, new rear bodywork, improvements to its 300-horsepower, 3.7-liter V6 powertrain (that includes better fuel economy), and a new six-speed automatic transmission. An all-new Advance Package offers a revised Active Damper System and new, 19-inch wheels and tires. New, 18-inch wheels are standard. As with recent MDX model years, the 2010 MDX transfers power to the wheels through its renowned Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that actively distributes the optimum amount of power to all four wheels.

On the inside, the 2010 MDX features a new, bolstered, Milano-leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, new gauges and available AcuraLink Real-Time Weather and Traffic Rerouting via a new, full VGA eight-inch navigation screen. A new rear-view camera is also on the options list, and features three different view choices. Acura says, “In keeping with Acura’s leadership in the application of advanced, customer-relevant features, the 2010 MDX is available with an array of technologies to improve convenience, including an all-new blind spot information system and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and enhance safety, with Acura’s unique Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS).”

Coming soon will be a full road test review of the restyled, refined 2010 Acura MDX. Read about other Acura vehicles currently on sale in our 2009 Acura Buyer’s Guide.

-Deborah Neal, Editorial Director, autoMedia.com

Sneak Peek: Volvo XC60 R-Design

admin — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 02:33:00 GMT

Volvo has given us an early look at a special-edition XC60 to be unveiled at the upcoming 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. This well-dressed XC60 follows a tradition seen with past models, such as the C30, S40, V50, S80, V70, and XC90. It likely precedes a production model and dealer accessories.

The R-Design treatment is largely cosmetic, though Volvo does cite a firmer suspension and enhanced steering system to improve handling, along with exclusive 18-inch wheels. No powertrain changes have been disclosed.

The exterior is dressed with typical R-Design attributes: custom door mirror housings, matte-finish trim, skid-plates and twin chrome tailpipes. A monochrome exterior with tasteful highlights gives the XC60 a bolder appearance.

Inside, the cabin features a similar trim transformation, with abundant use of two-tone leather, aluminum, and R-Design logos. The standard seats are replaced by sportier buckets with firmness settings to dial in the right level of support and comfort for sprints to the neighborhood Ikea. The instruments feature an exclusive blue appearance.

Looking very much like a Porsche Cayenne S competitor, the XC60 adds a sporting flair to the model Volvo claims as the safest in its history. As the major German auto show draw near, we expect to learn more about production plans.

Read our 2009 Volvo XC60 review.

Audi Transforms Sales

Editor — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:41:00 GMT

Audi sold 7,524 vehicles in the U.S. during the month of June—making it their best sales month year-to-date ‘09. After all the numbers are tallied industry-wide, Audi says they expect their June share of the U.S. luxury import market to have increased by 9.1 percent. The company attributes the surge to the high demand for the new Audi Q5 crossover and Q7 TDI clean diesel SUV. The sales climate also improved 20 percent in June for the Audi A4 Cabriolet, quite possibly due to the onset of summer weather. Like most automakers, Audi’s year-to-date sales are still below last year’s figures, to be expected considering the recession, but the difference for Audi stands at just 15.9 percent. So, despite Sideways’ transforming task of alternating between Autobot and Decepticon only to create confusion in all camps, Audi’s impact in the import luxury market is clearly a strong force. Check out the entire Audi model lineup in our 2009 Audi buyer’s guide, featuring specs, pricing, and reviews.

~ Deborah Neal, Editorial Director, autoMedia.com