Jalopnik: auto

Automaker Future "Youthmobile" Concepts Are Wacky

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:20:00 EST

The 6th Annual Design Challenge winner will be announced at the LA Auto Show, picked from this selection of six radical concepts designed for sale in thirty years to appeal to the cell phone, internet and Guitar Hero generation.

Most of the concepts have pretty regular wacky shapes and smart grid communications features the futurists are always in love with, of course they're all "green" and electric, but one in particular made us shake our heads. Whoever came up with the "GM Car Hero" needs a very stern talking to.

Southern California Automotive Design Studios Envision the Ultimate Youthmobile in Year 2030
The winner of the 6th Annual Design Challenge will be announced Dec. 3rd at the LA Auto Show

LOS ANGELES - Nov. 4, 2009 /PRNewswire/ - As timeless as hanging out at the mall, automobiles have played an important role in young people's social lives, have acted as a means of self-expression and more importantly a necessary tool for interacting with friends. Today, communication technology is changing how we connect and perhaps even the role the car plays in young people's lives.

Southern California design studios will envision what a new generation of drivers, raised with cell phones, online communities and webcams will demand from their vehicles in the year 2030.

The design studios for Audi, GM, Honda, Mazda, Nissan and Toyota reached 21 years into the future and designed their interpretation of Youthmobile 2030. Designs range from vehicles that incorporate human DNA allowing changes in the shape, color and materials to vehicles that link into a mass transit system where drivers not only share the commute but trade music and compare class schedules.

Entries will be judged by Tom Matano, Director of Industrial Design at San Francisco's Academy of Art University; Imre Molner, Dean of Detroit's College for Creative Studies; Stewart Reed, Chair, Transportation Design, Pasadena's Art Center College of Design and Jason Hill, Principal of Eleven, LLC and Designer of the Aptera electric and plug-in hybrid/electric vehicle.

"Automotive designers have always been fascinated with the next generation of drivers and this year's Design Challenge has provided them with the opportunity to use their creative talents to revisit the concept of 'the car' with new eyes, using the hottest technologies to both explore and fulfill the needs of young people," said Chuck Pelly, director of Design Los Angeles and partner in The Design Academy, Inc.

About the Design Challenge:

The Design Challenge is part of the Design Los Angeles automobile designers' conference that is held every year during the Los Angeles Auto Show press days, Dec. 2 & 3, 2009. For the last six years a new Design Challenge theme is chosen and the major Southern California Automotive Design Studios battle against each other to showcase their talents and further explore new ideas in automotive design. The Design Los Angeles Conference also gives designers access to design industry leaders and provides the opportunity to address common industry issues.

New Honda CR-Z Concept Steps Closer To Production, Gets Manual Transmission

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 06:10:02 EDT

At the Tokyo Motor Show the latest Honda CR-Z Hybrid concept has debuted along with news of a production debut at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show. Yes, the compact pocket-rocket will return, complete with a manual transmission.

This is the second version of the Honda CRZ concept, but it's well on the way to being an actual production car which we'll see debuted at the 2010 Detoit Auto Show. The preternaturally lovable two-seater will be making a return by the fall of 2010 and hopefully make us remember why loved old Hondas so long ago. The CRZ is planned as another dedicated hybrid from Honda, but this time it'll get the twist of a six speed manual transmission. We're be particularly interested to see how that whole system will shake out when it goes from concept to production.

Honda CR-Z Concept 2009 Makes World Debut at the Tokyo Motor Show

Honda today debuted the much-anticipated CR-Z Concept 2009, the second concept version of the stylish, sporty hybrid coupe, at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show. While the vehicle displayed at the show is a global concept with a rear seat, the production version that will be introduced to North America in the second half of 2010 will be packaged as a sporty, 2-seat hybrid that provides a personal driving experience for North American customers.

"The Honda CR-Z will expand our lineup of hybrid vehicles and reinforce the fun-to-drive values associated with the Honda brand," said Erik Berkman, vice president of Automobile Corporate Planning and Logistics for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Beyond great styling and features, CR-Z will bring new levels of engagement and fun to customers interested a small car or a hybrid vehicle."

CR-Z will join the Insight and Civic Hybrid in the Honda hybrid lineup, each offering distinct benefits. Civic Hybrid, launched in 2003, was Honda's first mainstream model to feature hybrid power. The 2010 Insight, introduced in March 2009, ushered in a new era of affordability for a hybrid family sedan. The CR-Z will break new ground as a sporty, hybrid coupe with unique value.

The production version of the Honda CR-Z will make its world debut at the January 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Toyota FT-86 Concept: The AE86 Is Back In The Red, Metallic Flesh

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 23:34:37 EDT

We've seen the Toyota FT-86 for a couple of weeks, carefully dissected the delicious, metallic red sports car in any way we can, but now we've actually seen it in the flesh and Toyota's got some serious hotness here.

What's that? You can't imagine a Toyota that might consider offering a fun, affordable, two door with a modicum of sportiness and some seriously interesting style? Might we introduce you to the Toyota FT-86 concept — the first Toyota (barring the epic Lexus LFA) we've been genuinely excited about since the... um... Supra? Wow, that took entirely too long.

New Subieyota FT-86 Sketches Emerge

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:00:00 EDT

The first sketch of the Subaru version of the Toyota FT-86 came out a year-and-a-half ago, but now we get more than just a look at its hiney in these leaked-straight-from-Japan sketches.

Subaru Version Of The Toyota FT-86

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:48:43 EDT

Toyota FT-86 Concept: Design, Dissected

Matt Hardigree — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:00:00 EDT

The Toyota FT-86 Concept is an exciting step forward for the vanilla automaker, blending cues from the past (the Toyota AE86) with hints of ToMoCo future. We dissect the design below to see how they've accomplished this delicate feat.

A Legacy In The Front Three-Quarters
The original Toyota AE86 is a legend, offering the fun of RWD in an extremely light-and-tossable platform. Despite having econo-car dimensions, the AE86 was able to incorporate a sports car look with its long, sloping hood and a line carrying itself through the A-pillar. Click through to see how this element transformed into the final concept.

Toyota's Design Evolves In Profile
The RWD is teased in the Hofmeister Kink, which goes through quite the metamorphosis before ending up with a look that combines the wild integrated kink of the first sketch and concept with the practical C-pillar on the original coupe and three-door.

A Sexy Swoop In Back
The new swoopy design language on the FT-86 has less to do with the AE-86 and more to do with where Toyota is going as a company. The two-box design coming to a point at the rear evolves from the LF-A Roadster concept to something more dramatic on the sketch and concept before ending up with a design incorporating the same rotary look into the trunkline.

Looking To The Future Up Front
Toyota has lacked a distinctive front fascia for years, with little similarity between a Camry, Corolla and Avalon, to give just one example. Though you don't quite see the emergence of one in these drawings, it's clear with the introduction of the 2010 4Runner that Toyota is attempted, at least, to create a more aggressive look with the use of a trapezoidal shape.

Conclusion
The FT-86 in name and purpose is the heir to the AE86 legacy but is far more important to the brand. Though still a concept, this near-production vehicle is perhaps Toyota's best answer to Aiko Toyoda's complaint that the company has become distant from its customers.

Toyota FT-86 Concept: Behold, The New AE86

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EDT

A joint Toyota/Subaru sports car project has been in the works for what feels like forever. Now, finally, here's the first look, a heavily production-based concept called the Toyota FT-86 set to debut this month at the Tokyo Motor Show.

The Toyota FT-86 concept is the fruit of cooperation between Toyota Motor Company and Subaru, and as such will wear a common chassis and some degree of engine commonality, at the least a 2.0 liter, four cylinder boxer engine dubbed the "C-45 Boxer" and making between 200 and 250 HP will power the rear wheels through a manual six speed transmission, and get this — no hybrid system. Saints be praised.

Perhaps most telling are the car's overall dimensions. At 163.7 inches long, 69.3 inches, a wheelbase of 101.2 inches, and 49.6 inches high, it's thankfully compact, smaller in length, width and height than the Nissan 370Z, and slightly longer in wheelbase. It's also the first car to wear Toyota's new swoopy styling with some gusto. Dare we say it, we actually like the look of it. It's... exciting, we're so confused here. The interior is obviously all show-car glam and may serve as direction, but we'll be shocked if there are many zippers on the production car's dash.

We're men enough to admit that combined with the recently unveiled 2010 Toyota 4Runner, we're about to shed a tear over what looks to be the return of the old, fun AE86 sports coupe-building Toyota.

Toyota FT-86 Concept

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:16:36 EDT

MINI Broadspeed May Be MINI Coupe Moniker

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 10:30:00 EDT

MotoringFile is reporting the just-greenlit MINI coupe may get the name "Broadspeed" after the successful racing team which eventually built their own coupes back in the day. Look for the concept debut at Frankfurt. [MotoringFile via Autoblog]

Cougar Straddles A Cougar

Matt Hardigree — Mon, 11 May 2009 17:30:00 EDT

One of our favorite albums this year is Neko Case's Middle Cyclone — and not just because of her booming voice. At 39, she's just barely a cougar, but what she's sitting on definitely is.

How Many Drinks Was That? Roy Wert Edition

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EDT

Wert hit CNBC's "On the Money" to choose the best values of the NY Auto Show and everyone here is as confused as Carmen Wong. Perhaps it's time for another edition of "Wert is Wrong."

[CNBC]

Hyundai Equus: A High-Priced Hyundai Not For Us

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:15:04 EDT

Currently, there aren't plans to bring the executive-level Hyundai Equus super-sedan to the US, but Hyundai trotted one out to the New York Auto Show to judge the reaction to a $100K Korean car.

The super horsey from Hyundai made it's North American debut here on the New York Auto Show's carpet as a tease for what Hyundai is capable of in the luxury realm. With a price tag starting at $96,000 it has a lot to answer for. The car gets both the 4.6 liter Tau V8 and a bigger version clocking in at an even 5.0 liters (a homage to another "pony" car?) cooking up around 420 HP. In addition to the big mills, it'll get an 8 speed automatic transmission, Lane Departure Warning System, Vehicle Stability Management System and Pre-Safety Seatbelt System.

Inside are all the accommodations one would expect for high-powered Korean businessmen: leather, rear entertainment system, power window shades, little pseudo-iDrive knobs front and back, table trays in the rear, kimchi bar — the works. If interest in the car is high enough, we might be seeing the next Asian luxury import that'll never compete with established luxe brands like Lexus.

Hyundai Nuvis Concept: Hybrid Blue Drive Gives It Wings

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:45:15 EDT

We already saw the Hyundai Nuvis Concept after spotting it in the buff at the New York Auto Show, but now we've got all the details on Hyundai's latest hybrid concept.

The Nuvis Concept isn't necessarily a direction for a future product, but it is a showcase for Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive architecture. The system attacks the problem of hybridization with both barrels blazing, using a parallel hybrid drive system which puts a 30 kW, 151 lb-ft electric motor and a 2.4-liter four cylinder together in such a way that one or both or either can directly power a six speed transmission. It also does other hybrid tricks, electric power steering, air conditioning pump and electric oil pump.

Inside the tech meets eco theme continues with all the interior fabrics made from 100% recycled materials and touch screen interfaces all over the place. Since ambient lighting is the current fad for all designers it's got very dramatic blue lighting to compliment the swoopy, unmanufacturable shapes.

HYUNDAI NUVIS CONCEPT MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT NEW YORK AUTO SHOW
NEW YORK, April 9, 2009 – The world will have the opportunity to peer into Hyundai's future when the Nuvis concept makes its world debut at the 2009 New York International Auto Show.

The Nuvis is the eleventh signature concept car to be designed at the company's California Design Center in Irvine, Calif. In addition to showcasing the brand's cutting-edge capabilities, Nuvis also hints at a possible design direction for a future-generation crossover, blending attributes of a tall urban car and a premium utility vehicle.

Consistent with Hyundai's pledge to lead all brands in U.S. fuel economy by 2015, Nuvis is powered by Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive architecture, which uses breakthrough lithium polymer battery technology.

EVOLUTION OF THE DESIGN

In developing the initial sketches, Hyundai designers considered the interplay of natural, fluid elements with more rigid surfaces and structures to create the illusion of constant motion. Specifically, designers studied the way water splits across and flows around the hull and sides of a boat, creating a wake, or the way wind shapes a snowdrift or flurries through trees. The living power of these elements is reflected in the Nuvis' design.

"Our goal was to create a living machine, constantly moving, that the driver and passengers could be part of," said John Krsteski, Hyundai Design manager. "There are no lines on or in this car that are standing still."

In addition to invoking the impression of irrepressible motion, the Hyundai design team took more practical matters into account as well. Nuvis is designed to accommodate the diverse interests of a modern, active couple. The Nuvis is meant to be comfortable starting its day at a desert retreat, arriving at the ski slopes in the afternoon and then cruising to a formal dinner that evening.

The design team sought to create a vehicle that would complement its environment, without making a negative impact. The versatility of the vehicle's design, combined with Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive technology, accomplishes exactly this.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The Nuvis has an assertive face demonstrated by the strong, hourglass shape that frames the blue acrylic shield grille and aggressive headlamps, whose two glowing white rings are offset by a pair of red rings on the taillights.

Perched on top of 22-inch wheels, Nuvis' proportions are tall, strong and protective. The two body-side lines set up a flowing water effect, giving the appearance of motion.

In addition to the dynamic angles and firm stance, the Nuvis boasts a host of unique exterior elements.

"One of the coolest attributes of Nuvis is that the protective roof appears to float on top of the body through the use of hidden pillars and high-contrast glass," said Andre Hudson, Hyundai senior designer. "This effect starts at the headlamps and is carried all the way through to the taillights producing a tall, strong body-side and rear."

Large gull-wing doors, either opened or closed, create unique front, rear and profile views. Blue ambient lighting cast across the body adds to the overall upscale feel of the vehicle.

An additional design element featured on the Nuvis is a brushed aluminum accent that spans the entire length of the vehicle. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the Nuvis, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline, across the top and into the rear spoiler.

INTERIOR DESIGN

In keeping with the exterior design scheme, the Nuvis' spacious and luxurious interior is dominated by a cool, blue acrylic center stack that ebbs and surges in the manner of a river. The cascading floor, with its ambient blue lighting, further enhances an environment in which seamless technology flows, enveloping both the driver and passengers.

A current of information coming from the instrument panel streams throughout the cockpit, as passengers are able to access each other via Methode Electronics TouchSense® technology that links all four business-class seats. The car's infotainment system is fed by channels from the outside – the occupants, for instance, can learn of a restaurant's specials that evening as they drive past it.

The sculptured, comfortable seats are custom woven with a graduated fabric that is finished in a silver-to-black sunburst. The ecologically-friendly seating fabric is provided by True Textiles, the industry's leading provider of environmentally responsible textile solutions. The Nuvis fabric is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester – reclaimed soda bottles – and increasingly sustainable manufacturing processes. Hyundai collaborated with the True creative team to produce this unique fabric with an 80-inch repeat, providing a fabric that is as attractive to the environment as it is to the viewer. The matching seatbelts are provided by Harveys Original Seatbeltbags, a well- known manufacturer of handbags made out of seatbelts. Harveys also developed two matching handbags for the Nuvis concept.

HYUNDAI'S HYBRID BLUE DRIVE ARCHITECTURE

Your browser may not support display of this image. Hyundai's all-new, homegrown Hybrid Blue Drive architecture helps define the Nuvis concept. Hyundai's proprietary parallel hybrid drive system mates the already fuel-efficient 2.4-liter Theta II engine to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 30kW (205 N-m) electric motor for maximum fuel economy.

Hybrid Blue Drive has an all-electric mode and a parallel drive mode, meaning that the wheels are turned by power coming directly from the gasoline engine, or the electric motor, or both together, as conditions demand. This parallel hybrid drive architecture will serve as the foundation for future Hyundai hybrid drive vehicles, starting with the next-generation Sonata in the United States.

To maximize fuel economy, all of the Theta II's major driveline and cooling system components have been optimized to reduce friction, while the crankcase has been filled with low friction oil.

Engine management software automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, cutting emissions to zero. The engine automatically restarts when pressure is reapplied to the accelerator pedal due to the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).

To further reduce fuel consumption, the Theta II's engine management software, which governs injection pressure, engine cycle timing and exhaust retreatment rates, has been revised. This control strategy assures that maximum efficiency is achieved during gentle acceleration, while greater power is immediately available during full acceleration. During deceleration, regenerative braking also comes into play to help conserve energy.

To ensure that the engine runs at lower RPMs, the top three gear ratios in the transmission have been extended. Fuel economy is further optimized through the latest electric motor-assisted steering system which reduces power drain and low resistance tires.

The nine major components of Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive include:

1. An efficient 30kW electric motor, delivering 205 N-m of torque
2. A regenerative braking system
3. An integrated starter generator that enables the engine to turn off at stops and restart automatically under acceleration
4. A breakthrough lithium polymer battery package, with 5.3 Ah of capacity at 270 volts
5. Optimized Theta II 2.4-liter engine
6. 6-speed automatic transmission with an improved-efficiency electric oil pump
7. Weight-efficient architecture coupled with a low drag coefficient
8. Electric air conditioning compressor
9. Hybrid power control unit

LITHIUM POLYMER BATTERY TECHNOLOGY

Hyundai's hybrid system stores its electrical charge in a 270V lithium polymer rechargeable battery (5.3Ah/270V) that surpasses both existing nickel-metal hydride and pending lithium-ion applications. Lithium polymer batteries are more durable and space-efficient than other, bulkier hybrid batteries.

Mitsubishi iMiev Electric Confirmed For US Market

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:15:00 EDT

Mitsubishi has formally announced intent to sell it's all-electric Mitsubishi iMiev in the United States before 2012. Furthermore, they've announced a partnership with Portland General Electric to develop the infrastructure to support it.

Mitsubishi officials here at the New York Auto Show brought with them an iMiev outfitted with left-hand-drive in order to announce they intend to deliver a version of the Mitsubishi iMiev for the US market sometime before 2012. It may not be called the iMiev, but it will be powered by the same lithium-ion battery in the current versions undergoing fleet testing. Those batteries will be the limiting factor to the total volume though, as the supply of lithium will dictate the volume of the battery packs.

The additional announcement of a partnership with the State of Oregon and it's primary power supplier, Portland General Electric, to develop a ready infrastructure of charging stations to support electric cars. The greenie-greens in Oregon already purchase the most sustainable energy of any place in the nation, so the partnerships there make perfect sense.

Mitsubishi Motors Green Lights i MiEV Electric Car For Global Markets
State of Oregon and Portland General Electric Join Test Program
NEW YORK, April 9, 2009 —

Mitsubishi Motors is accelerating its drive toward greater environmental responsibility and reinforcing its Drive@Earth global sustainability initiative by announcing today its commitment to develop the pure electric, four-passenger Mitsubishi i MiEV for global markets.

Ending months of heightening speculation, Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Shinichi Kurihara confirmed the i MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) is being developed for sale in world markets, including the United States.

"Electric vehicles are one branch of the automotive landscape and we are dedicated to providing these technology-sourced solutions as an important path for the world's clean-air options," explained Kurihara, who stood alongside a Left Hand Drive i MiEV during his address to journalists at the New York International Auto Show. "We believe the i MiEV delivers on the promise of sustainability, suitable range, performance, and innovative packaging and styling."

The award-winning Mitsubishi i MiEV is expected to be the world's first practical electric vehicle offered by a major automobile manufacturer when fleet sales begin this July in Japan.

State of Oregon and Portland General Electric Join Partnership

Kurihara was pleased to also announce that the State of Oregon and Portland General Electric (PGE) (NYSE:POR) are joining Mitsubishi in the i MiEV partnership program. "State of Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski is a progressive thinker who is providing a roadmap of the future," commented Kurihara. "The State of Oregon and Portland General Electric will become valuable partners in helping validate the future of all electric vehicles."

Details of the programs are being finalized, but the findings from these real-world, independent tests will play an important role in further advancing the car's development for the U.S. market.

"Oregon welcomes the partnership with Mitsubishi as we transition to the next generation in vehicle technology. Together, we can build a consistent and reliable infrastructure so consumers can make the switch seamlessly to electric vehicles," Governor Kulongoski said. "The partnership shows that a state can create opportunity for its commitment to a greener future - wins for our economy and our environment."

PGE is rolling out a network of charging stations across its service territory in Oregon and the addition of i MiEVs further facilitates its support of next-generation electric vehicles. PGE currently has more than a dozen charging stations up and running.

"We are developing a model charging station infrastructure across our service territory to advance the electric vehicle market in Oregon for our customers," said Jim Piro, president and CEO, PGE. "Our customers are number one in the nation in purchasing renewable power so clearly they are committed to sustainability. We expect Oregon to be one of the top markets for next generation electric vehicles. We look forward to partnering with Mitsubish iand the state of Oregon on this important project."

Mitsubishi i MiEV Performance

Based on the successful Japanese market "i" car, the electric version replaces the i's conventional gasoline engine, transmission and fuel tank with an advanced lithium-ion battery system, electric motor and onboard charging system. Unique rear mid-ship architecture allowed Mitsubishi Motors to seamlessly integrate the new components under the seats, luggage compartment and floor deck, meaning no compromise in interior cabin space. In fact, there are few visual sight cues that indicate the vast technological differences between the gasoline and electric models.

With its high-torque electric motor and clever packaging, the i MiEV offers an intelligent combination of useful performance with small physical and carbon footprints, plus a roomy interior and a sensible range of approximately 80 miles from its advanced lithium-ion battery pack.

The i MiEV's battery pack consists of 22 modules, each one consisting of four cells that can be installed in either a vertical or transverse position under the i MiEV's floor. The i MiEV's onboard charger automatically adapts between a standard 110 outlet - which takes 12-14 hours - or half that time on 220. There is also a fast charge connector that allows the battery to reach 80 percent of capacity in just 30 minutes.

The proprietary lithium-ion batteries are purpose-built for automotive applications. It is produced by Lithium Energy Japan, a joint venture among GS Yuasa, Mitsubishi Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors.

Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype Previews New Snout

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 10:30:00 EDT

An angry new Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype just bowed here at the New York Auto Show, wearing the "jet-fighter" Lancer nose up front and a revised V6 behind it.

The Outlander GT Prototype is a preview of the production version slated to replace the aging Outlander, and aside from the newish nose, the crossover gets upgrades to the powertrain too. The 3.0 liter V6 gets a 10 HP bump to 230 HP and the automatic transmission gets new programming which allows it to shift into neutral at a stop light, saving fuel at idle. The aluminum roof gets a polished finished for the show car, but don't expect to see anything like it on a production version.

Mitsubishi Motors Introduces All-New Outlander GT Prototype to Demonstrate Enhanced Sports and Performance Technologies
Building on the success of the Mitsubishi Outlander, Mitsubishi Motors North America today conducted the World debut of a distinctive new model that takes the compact SUV to another new level of performance and sportiness - the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Prototype. The all-new design study is the centerpiece of the Mitsubishi Motors exhibit at the New York International Auto Show, which continues through April 19.

The Diamond white Outlander GT Prototype infuses performance and design inspiration from Mitsubishi's Lancer sport sedans and provides clear indicators of the future of Outlander.

"The Outlander GT Prototype is packed with technology, performance and premium features that are uncommon in the compact SUV class," commented John Koenig, executive vice president of Mitsubishi Motors North America. "Along with its faster heartbeat, we also wanted to quicken pulses by channeling the look of our sportiest cars."

A front grille design inspired by the Lancer Evolution's "jet fighter" look is clearly in play on the Outlander GT Prototype, which sports complementary new design elements, such as a reshaped front bumper, side mirrors, fenders and hood. Reshaped Bi-Xenon HID headlamps, a new rear bumper and side sills, plus a bold polished finish on the already standard aluminum roof panel accentuate the sporty appeal.

The Outlander GT Prototype also benefits from improvements to the all-aluminum 3.0-liter SOHC MIVEC V6 currently found in the Outlander XLS, including a reduction in intake restriction plus optimized camshaft timing and compression ratio. The engine changes raise maximum output by 10 horsepower, for a total of 230 horsepower, with an improved torque curve for more responsive city driving and enhanced fuel economy and emissions.

To further increase fuel economy, the Outlander GT Prototype features an upgraded shifting program and Idle Neutral Logic, which automatically, and smoothly, shifts into neutral during vehicle standstill. It reengages at the slightest lift of the foot off the brake pedal, thereby providing instantaneous response.

Hyundai Nuvis Concept Takes Flight With Massive Gullwing Doors

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 09:51:12 EDT

The Hyundai press event isn't until later today, but we spotted the Hyundai Nuvis Concept undergoing final prep before it's New York Auto Show debut. We're impressed by those serious gullwing doors.

The Nuvis is, apparently, Hyundai's latest in a proud tradition of concept cars that'll never reach the street. Seems fitting gullwing doors are making a comeback in proper Malaise II-fashion, and this concept is certainly bringing the heat with it's full-length set. The styling is actually not too bad for the vehicle type — if you don't look too hard at the squinty face. According to our super-secret sources, the Nuvis will be playing the part of Thunderhawk should a remake of M.A.S.K. ever hit the silver screen.

Stay tuned for complete details after the press event.

AutoSpies Booted From New York Auto Show

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EDT

Apparently Acura didn't find AutoSpies posting a "reader-submitted" image of the Acura ZDX ahead of yesterday's unveil all that funny. As a result, New York Auto Show security tossed AutoSpies' Don Buffamanti from the show.

According to Autospies, their properly credentialed on-site "Agent 001," a.k.a. Don Buffamanti, was approached by auto show PR representative Chis Sams with security officers in tow and asked to relinquish his media badge. He was then escorted off the premises. Pretty funny if you ask us. Maybe next time he'll realize that when you do stupid things, you have to deal with the consequences. We know we realized that a long time ago.

It didn't stop us, but we're certainly prepared for the consequences. Silly AutoSpies. [AutoSpies]

2010 Porsche 911 GT3: Santa's 435 HP Sleigh

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:46:34 EDT

The 2010 Porche 911 GT3 just hit the floor at the New York Auto Show and it's a sexy red 435 HP missile of leather and fury, priced from $112,200.

The 911 GT3 has been updated for 2010 with a naturally aspirated flat six dumping out 435 HP and 317 lb-ft of torque and riding on magnetorheologial engine mounts. Power is routed through a six speed transmission to a stiffened suspension, delivering a 0-60 MPH time of four seconds flat with blistering 194 MPH top speed.

Scion iQ Concept Mega Gallery

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 14:45:00 EDT

The spicy little Scion iQ Concept was just unveiled at the New York Auto Show, and now we just got a load of shots directly from Toyota.

[Source: Toyota]

Acura ZDX Crossover: One Of Everything

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 11:58:00 EDT

We got a peek at the Acura ZDX "concept" yesterday, but now it's been fully unveiled at the New York Auto Show to a crowd of perplexed onlookers. Is it a wagon? An SUV? Yes.

The ZDX is more or less a prototype of the vehicle set to go on sale in the fall as Acura's entry into the segment blurring slice of the market invented by the BMW X6. The ~~wagon~~ ~~SUV~~ ~~fastback~~ ZDX wears fairly familiar Acura styling with the prominently placed power-plenum grille up front, strong shoulder line with blended in fender flairs, and pointy tail lights. The rear glass swoops down in one continuous arc, terminating with a vertical panel for rear visibility.

Inside the ZDX gets all the passenger luxuries associated with Acura, including de rigeur leather, matte chrome, cameras everywhere and a high powered sounds system. The ZDX is powered with an unspecified V6 mated to an new 6-speed automatic and driving Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. We fully expect this prototype to get a new set of headlights and go to production looking very similar to the prototype.

All-New Acura ZDX Debuts at New York International Auto Show
04/08/2009 - NEW YORK -
A prototype of the provocative Acura ZDX luxury four-door sports coupe made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show today. The production version of the dramatically styled prototype goes on-sale in the fall of 2009. The segment bending ZDX features stunning coupe-like styling with the added benefit of a commanding presence and flexible utility.

"The ZDX is truly a luxury performance coupe - plus," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "The emotional coupe styling coupled with a luxurious and dramatic interior and surprising versatility, allows the ZDX to define its own segment and attract an entirely new customer."

The ZDX is designed to break new ground for Acura in the areas of provocative styling, contemporary luxury and meticulous refinement. With its sensuous curves, sharply raked roofline and bold fender flares, the ZDX blurs the distinction between coupe, sedan and sport utility vehicle. Clean, flowing lines start from the headlights and run the length of the car, accentuating the cars presence and grace. In keeping with the coupe-inspired styling, the rear door handles are cleverly concealed in the C-pillar. The all-glass tailgate opens wide to reveal a highly functional cargo space with integrated under-floor storage. The prototype is finished off with stylish dual chrome exhaust outlets and 9-spoke machined wheels fitted with 20-inch Michelin tires.

"From the very first sketch of the ZDX, I wanted to create an emotional vehicle that challenged conventional thinking of what a sports coupe should be," said Michelle Christensen, ZDX exterior designer. "My goal was to create a strikingly beautiful exterior, and use that attraction to help draw you into the rich interior."

Inside, the ZDX exudes modern luxury while focusing on pampering the front passengers. The cabin is enveloped in leather, which gives the interior a luxurious and inviting feel. The hand-stitched leather dash and instrument panel sweep down to form a dual cockpit layout, creating a personal and intimate experience for the front seat occupants. The premium leather seats are highly bolstered to support the passengers during sporty driving and at the same time provide comfort during a long getaway. A black monochromatic center stack leads to the textured metallic center console, which complements the black and pearl white leather trim. The thick leather wrapped steering wheel provides ample grip and is framed by racing-inspired paddle shifters for the ultimate in driver control. The cabin is enclosed by a panoramic glass roof which runs the entire length of the vehicle, providing occupants with a breathtaking view of the world around them.

The production ZDX will bring a new level of prestige and sophistication when it arrives at Acura dealerships in the fall, offering the latest advancements in performance, technology and safety. The ZDX will deliver sports sedan performance on the road with its powerful V-6 engine mated to an all-new, smooth shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. The potent powertrain will be coupled with Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system, giving the ZDX outstanding handling and cornering capabilities in all-weather conditions.

In typical Acura fashion, the ZDX will be available with the latest in customer enhancing technologies and advanced safety features including an all-new blind spot information system, which will help drivers change lanes more confidently. A new multi-view rear camera makes parking even easier with the added enhancement of both a wide angle and top down view. Acura signature technologies like Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™, Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system and Bluetooth® connectivity will also be available on the all-new model.

The ZDX represents the next step for Acura in its advancement to becoming one of the top luxury brands and makes a clear statement toward the future of the brand.

ZDX Prototype Dimensions:

Length: 192.4 inches

Width: 78.5 inches

Height: 61.8 inches

Wheelbase: 108.2 inches

Wheel/tire: 9-spoke custom alloy wheels with Michelin Latitude HP 275/40ZR 20 tires

Powertrain: All-aluminum VTEC® V-6, all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®)

Seating capacity: 5-passenger