Hyundai HED-6 Concept

Hyundai i40 sedan

2011-05-12T00:45:00.000-07:00

Hyundai has released this rendered image of the upcoming i40 sedan variant which the Korean automaker will be debuting at the Barcelona Motor Show next Thursday.
This car, Hyundai likes to boast, is very European. Designed at the automaker's European headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany, this sedan version of the i40 wagon is meant to take on the likes of the Ford Mondeo and VW Passat in Europe.

Details are spare, though, except that the car comes with a wheelbase of 2.77 m.

Engines that will likely make it under the hood of this Hyundai are the 1.7-liter diesel ( in two variants, 115 PS / 85 kW and 136 PS / 100 kW), the 1.6 GDI with around 140 PS (103 kW) and the 2.0 liter Theta II unit with 177 PS (130 kW).

More details are sure to follow after the Barcelona unveiling.
The i40 sedan will go on sale later in the year while the i40 wagon variant has already gone to market.

Mugen Honda CR-Z

2011-04-29T00:15:00.000-07:00

Mugen has announced that its CR-Z will use a supercharged version of the standard 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine. The engine internals will be beefed up considerably to handle boost pressure, while the Integrated Motor Assist electric motor will remain unchanged, providing extra power.
Mugen says the supercharged 1.5-litre will boast figures of around 147kW of power and 245Nm of torque. This will put the little CR-Z into the same league as the John Cooper Works MINI Cooper S and the Renault Clio RS 200 Cup, in terms of power and weight. Colin Whittamore of Mugen Europe, recently announced,
“The idea was to use the significant advantage of the early torque provided by the Honda IMA electric motor, then increase the torque available from the petrol engine gradually, to first maintain and then increase this.
“A supercharger and complementary electronics allow us to very neatly map the IMA to the extra power and torque of the engine in a unique package, giving a smooth, integrated and powerful driving experience.”
The Mugen CR-Z will be unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK in July. Even though Honda currently has no plans to sell the vehicle as a part of its line-up, upgrades are likely to become available from Mugen as a separate package.

Buick Regal Turbo

2011-03-29T01:08:00.000-07:00

As you first approach the vehicle you notice the abnormally wide sport tires. Past Buicks featured large flabby side-walled tires, which gave the car added comfort. Not in 2011 though. The optional 19-inch aluminum rims and Goodyear Eagle RSA high-performance tires are ready for the track and not just an old couple’s Sunday drive.

Once you’re finished gawking at the tires, the vehicle design will catch your attention. The sleek body lines blend aspects of traditional Buick design with all the proportions of a sporty coupe. Plus, they’ve still incorporated the chrome waterfall grille – a signature in Buick’s design set.
TURBOCHARGED ENGINE DELIVERS PLENTY OF EXTRA THRUST

Out on the road you’ll have a perpetual grin on your face with 220-horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque under your foot. The 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder turbo engine uses direct injection technology to optimize performance and a twin-scroll turbocharger to build more power at lower rpm. This all translates into some serious G-forces pushing you back in your seat when the light goes green.

Dodge Charger R/T

2011-03-29T01:03:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Charger R/T carries a 5.7-liter V8 dishing up 370 bhp at 5,250 rpm and 395 lb-ft at 4,200 rpm. It's backed by five-speed autobox.

With its iron block and pushrod-actuated two valves per cylinder, this mill might appear to be lifted directly out of the sixties. However, it sports a few modern twists. For one, when creating this Hemi a few years back, Chrysler ditched the hemispherical combustion chambers (while smartly retaining the evocative moniker).

Next, the Hemi's got the ability to shut down half of its cylinders by essentially 'collapsing' the hydraulic lifters that actuate four of its eight intake valves. This cylinder deactivation system saves fuel during certain part-throttle situations by increasing the engine load (e.g., opening the throttle) on the remaining four cylinders.

Chevrolet Volt extended-range EV

2010-10-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

The Chevrolet Volt extended-range EV has a base MSRP of $41,000. For most Americans who buy one, this can be reduced by $7,500 thanks to a federal tax rebate. Additionally, some buyers will be able to take advantage of state or local government incentives that will drop the after-rebate price below $33,500, like the 2,500 Detroiters who can get free installers and a $40 flat monthly rate from DTE Energy. The people with the absolute cheapest entry point for a new Volt, though, could be those in Lansing, Michigan.

That's because the local utility, Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL), will offer incentives that match the $7,500 from the feds. According to the Lansing State Journal, the incentive is, "a $7,500 cash rebate to the first 25 buyers of the Volt in BWL's service area and install high-speed charging stations for those who make the list." The financial assistance comes from a $750,000 grant from the federal government that is meant to promote electric vehicles in mid-Michigan. BWL will also buy two Volts for its own use with the money.
The bad news? This amazing deal is limited to the just 25 people, and it doesn't seem to include any other plug-in vehicle (why no Nissan Leaf love?). If you're only helping 25 people, why not just buy some Volts to give away? In any case, it's a pretty sweet deal, and we would be surprised if other local governments are working on similar programs with their own federal grant money. Now, if you'll excuse us, we need to go make a phone call.

Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback

2010-09-03T13:38:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback – Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors will be expanding Chevrolet of Europe's lineup by adding a five-door Cruze, and while we won't get our first look at this new hatchback for a few weeks, GM has decided to preview it early with a few pictures on the web. Sure to be one of the major draws at the Paris Motor Show in just a few weeks, the liftback ought to compete nicely with the 2012 Ford Focus five-door, but don't expect GM to offer the more functional Cruze in the United States. "Americans don't like hatchbacks," remember?

Much like the Aveo RS and Buick Regal GS from this year's Detroit Auto Show, GM calls the Cruze hatchback a "show car," but in this case, that means that it's somewhere between the stages of concept and prototype. Don't expect the body to change, but we can easily see the front LED light bar and larger wheels being scrapped for the sake of cost-cutting.

Chevrolet says it will begin selling the Cruze hatchback across Europe in mid-2011 and pricing will be announced closer to the model's on-sale date. Follow the jump for the full details in GM's press release. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

K&N Cold Air Intake 69 Typhoon - Direct OE replacement

2010-07-30T16:33:00.000-07:00

K&N Cold Air Intake 69 Typhoon - Direct OE replacement
Part Number: K33691209TS
Manufacturer Number: 69-1209TS
K&N Cold Air Intake K&N Cold Air Intake
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K&N 69 SERIES TYPHOON COLD AIR INTAKE SYSTEM -- Not legal in California and other states adopting California Emissions Standards; Not for sale or use in California and other states adopting California Emissions Standards; Cannot be shipped to California and such states; Provides additional power up to 7.13 h.p. at 5111 RPM; 96 to 99 percent filtration efficiency; Includes silver intake tube, black heat shield, red air filter, and all the necessary hardware for installation; High-flow intake kit for sport compact and sports car; Features T-6063 aluminum intake tube that is custom engineered and aerodynamically designed to drive air into your engine; Its washable and reusable air filter is made of multiple interwoven layers of surgical cotton gauze infused or charged with oil for outstanding filtration and airflow; Comes with a heat shield that is custom designed to isolate and provide cooler air; Virtually eliminates intake tract restriction by replacing the air filter and the entire air path to the engine; Can go up to 100,000 miles between cleanings depending on driving conditions; Easy to install.

Hyundai Sonata Limited new

2010-06-09T22:26:00.000-07:00

was impressed in my quick overnight with the Sonata. The exterior lines are sleek and sporty looking. The ride is fun, with plenty of power as soon as you step on the pedal, no hesitation. Entering the expressway and passing are done smoothly; no jerking when you need that extra boost. The interior is quite nice with good materials all around, even the hard plastics. The seats are comfy, and all of the controls are super-easy to find and use.

For our monthly grocery trip, which was one of the biggest we've done in some time, the Sonata's huge trunk swallowed up more than a dozen bags and there was still room to spare. I think this car, along with the sporty and fun Genesis, could start to change people's perceptions of Hyundai's cars.

SENIOR EDITOR FOR NEWS BOB GRITZINGER: Look out Toyota Camry and beware Honda Accord--the latest Korean competition is in town, and it's loaded for bear. Not only is the 2011 Sonata one of the sharpest-looking midsizers on the market, but this four-cylinder test car packaged a bevy of standard features, along with the high-end options such as navigation and upscale audio system. Inside, everything is well placed and the surroundings are quite pleasing and quiet.

Though the four-cylinder sometimes sounds as if it is laboring under heavy acceleration, the gearing is such that the car is peppy off the line and responsive in most driving situations. It won't blow anyone's doors off, but if you're buying a midsize sedan to go street racing, you may need to examine what you really want in a car.

Between the stylish packing and standard features for the price--and the quiet ride, reasonable powertrain and solid build quality--the 2011 Sonata lives up to its strong reviews.

EDITOR WES RAYNAL: You buy a Hyundai because it's cheap. People buy them on price. There is no reason to buy a Hyundai unless you can get a hell of a deal on one. That is, until now perhaps. This is a darn-fine midsize sedan and could well be the first car Hyundai could actually sell on something other than a cheap sticker.

While I don't think anybody should have to pay near $30,000 for any four-cylinder midsize sedan, this is probably the closest thing I've driven to being worth it. The sheetmetal looks terrific (as long as you like the Mercedes-Benz CLS, which this copies closely), road manners are good and the interior is pretty good. The back seat lacks a bit of headroom but it's not too bad.

Hyundai has really upped its game with this car. Will it be the car that breaks Hyundai from the cheap-wheels stigma? Let's see how it plays in Dubuque.

SENIOR WEB REPORTER GREG MIGLIORE: I think the styling and smooth powertrain make this Hyundai a winner and a serious competitor for the Camry and the Accord.

For a guy who notices such things, it's nice to see a midsize sedan that has a striking look (even if that look is rather Mercedes-like). The beltline and the lights do an impressive job of distinguishing this Hyundai from other entries in the segment.

The I4 is smooth and offers plenty of acceleration for a four-banger. It works well with the six-speed; very well calibrated. The inside is a pleasant setting, and the gauges are almost luxurylike in appearance.

The last Sonata was a nice car. This one is a real competitor. Look out.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Limited

Base Price: $26,015

As-Tested Price: $28,215

Drivetrain: 2.4-liter I4; FWD, six-speed automatic

Output: 198 hp @ 6,300 rpm, 184 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm

Curb Weight: 3,316 lb

Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 26/25.9 mpg

Options: Navigation package including high-resolution touch display, satellite traffic and weather and sports, premium sound with subwoofer, backup camera ($2,100); carpeted floor mats ($100)

Toyota developing smaller, cheaper baby FT-86

2010-05-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

If there is any truth to this report from Road & Track, you inexpensive sports car lovers are going to owe the Toyota FT-86 a lot of thanks. RT says that the development costs for Toyota's re-entry into the truly sporty segment has run over estimates and the car is going to be priced higher than $20,000 – not what Toyota wanted.

In response, the Japanese automaker has allegedly decided to bring out another, less expensive front-engined, rear-wheel-drive car using the 109-horsepower engine from the first generation Scion xB and getting in under the $20K limbo bar. If this dream does come true, you'll be able to open your eyes in 2012, a year after the FT-86 arrives. Thanks for the tip, Barry!

Switzer Builds an 800HP Track-Day Nissan GTR Terror that's Comfortable on the Street

2010-04-12T04:28:00.000-07:00

Switzer Performance Innovation, SPI, or just plain Switzer, was recently contacted by a client from New England who felt the need to cut some of the fat off of his standard GTR's 3,800 lb weight.

Oh, and he felt it needed more power, too. The goal was an ideal track-day car that could get there, run, and still head out for an evening while providing full comfort and amenities.

Step 1: Install the P800 power kit, which adds new intercoolers, intakes, and turbos. This gets the car to 800 horsepower and "almost 700 lb-ft of torque."

Step 2: Put the stoppers on a diet (reducing unsprung mass) by replacing brake components with parts from AP (carbon rotors and brake fluid), new pads, and stainless steel brake lines.

Step 3: Improve breathing further with a ceramic-coated titanium exhaust system.

Step 4: Cut unnecessary flab with the addition of a carbon trunk lid and new Bride sports buckets. "We chose these seats because of their adjustability. You can be comfortable, still get to the back seat, and it's not an extreme one-piece seat that's not comfortable on the highway."

Step 5: Throw in "a fully-adjustable JRZ suspension system" (with adjustable sway bars) for better carving of corners.

Step 6: Resolve any air flow issues with an under-body diffuser and an Aeromotions wing.

End Result: An R35 road/track Godzilla weighing in at 3,600 lbs and putting out an insane 800 horsepower.

Sounds like someone's going to be having a lot of fun.

Hyundai HED-6 Concept leaks out

2010-01-20T03:53:00.001-08:00

Click above for a gallery of the Hyundai HED-6 concept

We're still just over a week away from the Geneva Motor Show, but thanks to the folks at Autotelegraaf, we've got the first official images of Hyundai's HED-6 concept. The CG renderings stay true to the sketch released last week, evolving the current Hyundai crossover design language into a more edgy, sculpted and less anonymous package. Motivation comes courtesy of a 175 hp 1.6-liter GDi four-cylinder equipped with a turbo and a direct injection, and the new mill is expected to find its way into Hyundai's future small and mid-size offerings, including the i30.

When the HED-6 makes it to production, the CUV is likely to carry the iX35 moniker and be built along side the Kia Sportage – due for its own facelift in 2010 – at the automaker's facility in Slovakia. The iX35 could find its way to the States as the next Tucson, but we'll know more when we're on the floor in Geneva next month.

Hyundai HED-6 Concept

Hyundai HED-6 ix-ONIC Concept 2010

2010-01-20T03:49:00.000-08:00

Hyundai HED-6 ix-ONIC Concept - hi res

Hyundai is showing off their latest concept car to a select group of journalists today. Called the Hyundai ix-onic, it will be the second generation of the Tucson.

The new concept features a new, production-ready engine as well. Hyundai will start building an incredibly clean 173 horsepower 1.6-liter engine later this year. Producing only 149 grams of CO2 per kilometer, the new engine will make its way into the market version of the ix-onic. This engine could also be built into other Hyundai models, like the i30.

Currently, the Tucson also has a 140 hp 2.0-liter in-line four petrol engine, and a 173 hp 2.7-liter V6 petrol. Some countries also got access to a very efficient, 140 hp 2.0-liter diesel. Hyundai did not say if these engines would still be available.

Once it hits production, the new crossover will be called the Hyundai iX35. The company says it will look very similar to the latest concept car, with the exception of a few details. Lights, bumpers, and materials will likely be changed, but the lines and shape will remain the same. The five-seater concept measures 4.4 meters long by 1.85 m wide by 1.65 m high. A seven-seat iX35 is not expected to go on sale.

Styling cues are similar to that of the i10 and i30. Completely brand new, the ix-onic and iX35 were designed by Hyundai's European operation. Despite declining demand for SUVs and crossovers in Europe, Hyundai believes this vehicle will be sought after.

The new iX35 will be built in a Slovakian Kia factory, according to the company. One company rep told a Dutch newspaper, "In light of the technical connection with the Kia Sportage, which is already coming off the assembly line in Slovakia, it is logical that the two models will be assembled side by side."

The next Sportage is due out in February 2010, he said.

Hyundai also has plans to build two new compact MPVs at their new plant in the Czech Republic.

You can see the Hyundai ix-onic concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Hyundai HED-6 Concept Zoom-Zoom?

2010-01-20T03:41:00.000-08:00

The first teaser rendering of the Hyundai HED-6 SUV concept, set to be unveiled in Geneva, indicates the concept will hint at a next-generation Mazda-like styling for Hyundai SUVs. Cue the flowing lines and prose.

Additionally, Hyundai plans to show off the three-door i20, set to go on sale in Europe during the second quarter of 2009. Of course, we're also told they'll be bringing along the 1.6-liter engined i30 blue.

Hyundai reveals SUV concept car ahead of Geneva Motor Show première

• Computer rendering reveals dynamic styling for compact SUV

• Three-door i20 to debut at Geneva Show

• First application of stop-start technology to be shown on i30 blue

Offenbach, February 09th 2009

Hyundai Motor Company will unveil an all-new concept car at this year's Salon International de L'Automobile in Geneva on March 3rd, and the first image of the vehicle has just been released. This innovative concept portrays a dramatic new look for compact SUVs and was styled at the company's European Design headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

The world première of this new concept – codenamed HED-6 – will take centre stage on the Hyundai stand, with two other vehicles completing a hat-trick of debuts for the company. The three-door version of new B-segment challenger the i20 will be shown for the first time on stage, further enhancing the Hyundai small-car offering, while the i30 blue will showcase the first application of stop-start technology on a Hyundai production car, contributing to a significant cut in both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

HED-6 concept car
Hyundai's European design team has hailed HED-6 as an ‘urban nomad, a car of contrast for a world of contrast', citing cultural influences from major cities like Berlin, Paris and London as key to its creation.

HED-6 combines muscular design and everyday utility to fit comfortably in an urban or out-of-town environment. The dramatic exterior design is enhanced by the hexagonal grille, angular style lines and piercing back-swept front headlamps, with the bold look completed by 21-inch, mirror-polished alloy wheels. The three-dimensional, sculpted shape of the rear window is achieved using "Lexan" high-performance plastics instead of regular glass. To emphasize the dynamic flowing lines, the designers have developed a special ‘Ice Blue' exterior paint, with an advanced pigment effect for a brilliant shine.

Equipped with LED daytime running lights and powered by a 175 HP, 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged engine, HED-6 gives an indication of the next generation of Hyundai SUVs.

Allan Rushforth, Vice President at Hyundai Motor Europe said, "The HED-6 brings an entirely new look to Hyundai's SUV line-up. It fuses a robust exterior with a fresh and elegant interior, making for an eye-catching package, while its latest-generation power train highlights Hyundai's clean-technology expertise."

i30 blue

Hyundai decided on a global basis to label all low emission vehicles to be launched, starting with i30, under the sub-brand "blue". The i30 produced in Nosovice, Czech Republic, will be the first mass production vehicle to wear the blue label as i30 blue.

Demonstrating the company's commitment to lowering vehicle CO2 emissions and reducing costs for consumers, Hyundai brings ISG (Idle Stop and Go) technology to a production car for the first time.

Ideal for city driving, the i30 blue will automatically switch the car's engine off when stationary.

The ISG system uses an advanced starter motor connected to the ECU, which monitors the car's status at all times. Remarkably, this technology applied to Hyundai's 1.6-litre petrol engine reduces fuel consumption by 7% on the official combined cycle, while achieving a lower CO2 rating of 142g/km, compared to 152g/km on the regular i30 1.6.

Available in showrooms by mid-year, the i30 blue will come in both five-door hatchback and CW estate body styles and a choice of 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines. Following in the footsteps of i30, other models in the Hyundai new-car range will progressively be offered with ISG technology.

i20 three-door
Set to play an important role in developing Hyundai's brand and sales success in Europe, the chic and versatile i20 three-door will go on sale in the second quarter of 2009. Adding a lower entry-level price to the i20 line-up, the youthful and sporty three-door variant will boost Hyundai's offering in the largest growing segment in Europe.

HYUNDAI TO REVEAL SUV CONCEPT AT GENEVA MOTOR SHOW

2010-01-20T03:40:00.000-08:00

* Design sketch reveals dynamic styling for compact SUV
* Three-door i20 to debut at Geneva Show
* First application of stop-start technology to be shown on i30 blue

Hyundai is to unveil an all-new concept car at this year's Salon International de L'Automobile in Geneva on March 3rd. This innovative concept portrays a dramatic new look for compact SUVs and was styled at the company's European Design headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany.

The world première of this new concept – codenamed HED-6 – will take centre stage on the Hyundai stand, with two other vehicles completing a hat-trick of debuts for the company.

The three-door version of the new i20 will also be shown for the first time, while the i30 blue will showcase the first application of stop-start technology on a Hyundai production car. This technology will contribute to a significant cut in both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

HED-6 concept car
Hyundai's European design team has combined muscular design with everyday utility to create a car which will fit comfortably in an urban or out-of-town environment. The dramatic exterior look is enhanced by the hexagonal grille, angular style lines and piercing back-swept front headlamps, with the bold look completed by 21-inch, mirror-polished alloy wheels.

The three-dimensional, sculpted shape of the rear window is achieved using 'Lexan' high-performance plastics instead of regular glass. To emphasise the dynamic flowing lines, the designers have developed a special 'Ice Blue' exterior paint, with an advanced pigment effect for a brilliant shine.

Equipped with LED daytime running lights and powered by a 175hp, 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged engine, HED-6 gives a clear indication of the direction Hyundai will take with its next generation of Hyundai SUVs.

Allan Rushforth, Vice President at Hyundai Motor Europe said, 'The HED-6 brings an entirely new look to Hyundai's SUV line-up. It fuses a robust exterior with a fresh and elegant interior, making for an eye-catching package, while its latest-generation power train highlights Hyundai's clean-technology expertise.'

i30 blue
Hyundai decided on a global basis to label all low emission vehicles to be launched, starting with i30, under the sub-brand 'blue'. The i30 produced in Nosovice, Czech Republic, will be the first mass production vehicle to wear the blue label as i30 blue.

Demonstrating the company's commitment to lowering vehicle CO2 emissions and reducing costs for consumers, Hyundai is bringing ISG (Idle Stop and Go) technology to one of its production cars for the first time.

Ideal for city driving, the i30 blue will automatically switch the car's engine off when stationary.

The ISG system uses an advanced starter motor connected to the ECU, which monitors the car's status at all times. Remarkably, this technology applied to Hyundai's 1.6-litre petrol engine reduces fuel consumption by 7% on the official combined cycle, while achieving a lower CO2 rating of 142g/km, compared to 152g/km on the regular i30 1.6.

Available in UK showrooms by the autumn, the i30 blue will come in both five-door hatchback and estate body styles and with a choice of 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines. Other i30 engine derivatives will progressively be offered with ISG technology, followed by more models in the Hyundai range.

i20 three-door
Set to play an important role in developing Hyundai's brand and sales success in Europe, the chic and versatile i20 three-door will go on sale in the second quarter of 2009. Adding a lower entry-level price to the i20 line-up, the youthful and sporty three-door variant will boost Hyundai's offering in the largest growing segment in Europe.

Hyundai HED-6 Concept 2010

2010-01-20T03:39:00.000-08:00

Hyundai has released details and a first teaser image of their HED-6 concept car which will entrance at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The HED-6 was styled at the troupe’s European Design headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany and it hints at Hyundai’s impending styling course for an eminent compact SUV. Power comes from Hyundai’s 1.6-liter GDi turbocharged engine which produces 175 HP.

The HED-6’s design enter back-swept front headlights, a hexagonal fencing, 21-creep mirror-polished alloy wheels, and a singular three-dimensional rear porthole that is made from high-performance forced instead of traditional beaker.

Read more (details + photo)!!

The company would also use the Geneva Motor Show to entrance the i30 blue which features the stamp’s first use of plug/pioneer technology called Idle Stop and Go (ISG). The i30 dejected equipped with a 1.6-liter petrol engine uses 7% less fuel in the combined phase and produces 10g/km of CO2 less than the pattern i30 1.6. The i30 cerulean will be unfilled in five-door hatchback and estate form and power will come from also the previously mentioned 1.6-liter engine or an even more economical 1.4-liter engine.

Hyundai will also use the show to entrance the new i20 three-door which will become the new opening-degree form of the i20.

Hyundai HED-6 ix-onic concept

2010-01-20T03:35:00.000-08:00

According to Hyundai, the HED-6 previews the design of the company’s future SUVs such as the 2010 Tucson

Enlarge PhotoFollowing the release of last week’s teaser sketches, Hyundai has produced the first official image for its latest concept vehicle planned for next month’s Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle is called the HED-6 and it was created by Hyundai’s European design studios located in Russelsheim, Germany.

Its designers describe it as an “urban nomad” with cultural influences from major cities such as Berlin, Paris and London. However, its true nature is a preview for the next-generation Tucson SUV. The new Tucson, which you can see spy shots of in our previous story, will go on sale later this year in the U.S. as a 2010 model and will eventually be sold in Europe as the all-new ix35.

As for the HED-6, its interior is enhanced by a hexagonal grille, angular style lines and piercing back-swept front headlamps. This aggressive look is completed with 21in alloy wheels and a dual-tip exhaust. The three-dimensional sculpted shape of the rear window, meanwhile, is achieved using Lexan plastics instead of regular glass.

The vehicle measures in at 4.4m in length, 1.85m across, and 1.65m in height. Inside, there is space for five adults but the production version is tipped to feature optional seating for seven.

Under the hood sits a newly developed 175hp 1.6L GDi turbodiesel engine that is mated to Hyundai’s in-house designed six-speed automatic transmission.

2010 Hyundai Tucson spy shots

2010 hyundai tucson spy shots december 009Gallery

2009 Hyundai HED-6 crossover concept

Rumours are gathering that Ford is preparing to reveal its third-generation Focus in saloon

2010-01-07T22:01:00.000-08:00

When it comes to show-stopping unveils, the Focus is on Detroit! Rumours are gathering that Ford is preparing to reveal its third-generation Focus in saloon and hatchback form at the US expo next week.

As Auto Express closed for press over the Christmas holidays, news had leaked on to the North American International Auto Show’s own website. We brought you pictures of the whole new Focus family in Issue 1,092 (right), and the four and five-doors will get a bold face characterised by triangular lights and a stylish grille.

Don’t expect the latest Focus to be too radical, though. As a global car, it will need to have mass-market appeal. Contrary to previous reports, the car is believed to be based on a front-wheel-drive platform from the Mondeo, to ensure class-leading handling and increased space.

A new range of EcoBoost turbo petrol engines will be available. This will comprise 89bhp or 108bhp 1.0-litre units and a 170bhp 1.6. Diesel choices include a 1.6 giving 128bhp, plus a 2.0-litre with 168bhp or 197bhp.

Stop-start is expected to be standard on most cars, while Ford’s dual-clutch Powershift transmission should also help reduce emissions. In addition, the Focus will come with adaptive dampers, a lane departure warning system and traffic sign recognition. Wi-Fi is likely to be offered, too. Sales will start towards the end of this year.

According to the Detroit New

2010-01-07T19:29:00.000-08:00

Like everywhere else on the planet, new car sales are down in Japan (17 percent versus 2008 levels, to be exact). And, like a number of other countries, Japan has decided to spur automobile sales by creating a cash-for-clunkers-style program at a cost of $3.7 billion. Unlike similar programs from other countries, including the one that ended late last year in the U.S., Japan has drafted a set of rules that strongly favors its own automakers – in effect precluding American cars from qualifying for sales incentives of up to $2,830 per vehicle. Eighty-seven percent of all Japan's domestic models qualify.

By way of comparison, there were multiple C4C bills considered by U.S. policymakers, and the program that eventually went into effect allowed any and all sufficiently fuel efficient vehicles to qualify for its incentives, regardless of their country of origin. After it was all said and done, 319,300 out of a total of 677,000 (just about half) of all C4C sales were Japanese cars.

According to the Detroit News, a number of American lawmakers, including Rep. Betty Sutton, D-Ohio, have called Japan's program "discriminatory and fundamentally unfair... unacceptable and outrageous." To highlight her displeasure over Japan's insular auto market – to wit, imports make up less than five percent of all new car sales in Japan – Sutton has introduced a bill this week urging President Obama to attempt to force Japan into including American automobiles in its C4C program. What are the chances of it passing? Something about snowballs comes to mind...

Santorini Black and Lago Grey and features 19″ limited edition diamond

2010-01-03T22:14:00.000-08:00

Land Rover is not going to make a full blooded Sport model of the Freelander with big V8 engine, like the Range Rover. That’d be too expensive and no one would buy it. Instead, from 2010 they offer a Sport Edition, which comes with unique styling, more luxury, efficient engine and great value for money.

Going on sale form January next year, the Freelander 2 Sport has a distinctive appearance to set it apart form the regular models. It comes in two colors: Santorini Black and Lago Grey and features 19″ limited edition diamond-turned alloy-wheels, rear spoiler and two-tone interior trim.

The interior of Freelander can be had in cloth/leather as standard or exclusive fine leather in contrasting Ebony and Storm with the sport styling pack. It also has an Ebony-coloured centre-console and lower fascia complemented with two-tone door casings. There is also embossed Sport emblem on the front and outer rear seat head restraints.

Freelander 2 Sport is powered by 2.2-liter TD4 diesel engine which is mated to a manual gearbox and features start/stop system. At 42 MPG and 179g/km CO₂ emissions, it is one of the most economical and green cars in this segment.

2010 Land Rover Freelander 2 Sport pricing starts from £26,695 on-the-road.

theMustang BOSS 302R is the same as the 2011 Mustang GT

2010-01-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

Along with the road-going version of 2011 Mustang, Ford unveiled the new Boss racing model featuring the same 5.0 liter V8 engine. The Mustang BOSS 302R comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and a series of race equipments including a roll cage, race seats, safety harness, data acquisition and race dampers/springs, and a Brembo brake and tire package.

The 302R model which which carries the legacy of original BOSS Mustangs is available to order for $79,000.

Ford will also make 5 specially prepared versions of this car for the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge series (formerly known as KONI Challenge) which come with Grand-Am Homologation Package and (M-FR500-BOSS R1). These cars will be equipped with a sealed high-output race engine with an upgraded cooling system, a close-ratio six-speed transmission with integral shifter, a seam-welded body, race suspension/KONI dampers and ABS brake tuning, race performance exhaust and a high-speed balance one-piece driveshaft. The price of each Grand-AmMustang BOSS 302R1 is $129,000.

Press Release:

Forty years after its namesake became a road racing legend, the BOSS is back on track for 2010 with a new 5.0-liter V-8 engine.In honor of the 40th anniversary of Parnelli Jones’ 1970 Trans-Am championship in aMustang BOSS 302 prepared by Bud Moore Engineering, Ford Racing is introducing the BOSS 302R, a factory-built race car ready for track days and road racing in a number of Grand-Am, SCCA and NASA classes.

“To keep pace with consumer demand, the Ford team has built modern versions of the most iconic performance Mustangs over the years,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports. “From Shelbys to Bullitt, Mach and Cobra Jet, it is now time for BOSS to join the list of America’s most covetedMustangs. The original BOSS 302 was a championship-winning legend and the new Mustang BOSS 302R will carry on the tradition. The Mustang was born to race from the start, and this new Mustang is bred to win.”

The BOSS 302R follows in the very successful footsteps of its most recent road racing predecessor – the Mustang FR500C from Ford Racing. In 2005, when the Mustang FR500C debuted at Daytona, the first car was delivered on Wednesday of that week and won the KONI Challenge race on Friday.

In five years of competition since then, the Mustang FR500C has won three Triple Crown championships of driver, team and manufacturer’s titles in KONI competition including back-to-back (2008 and 2009). The FR500C has also seen success in FIA GT4 competition winning the 2007 and 2008 driver’s championships.

“We expect the BOSS 302R to continue the successful tradition of winning with factory-built production-based race cars from Ford Racing,” said Allison. “The FR500C and FR500S road racingMustangs, and the Mustang FR500CJ (Cobra Jet) for drag racing have proven to be great cars for our customers, helping teams win races and championships. We believe that the BOSS 302R will provide that same sort of competitive product for our customers with the tradition you can only get from Ford Racing.”

Each Ford Racing factory-built production-based turnkey race car has won its competition debut.

“Racing has long served as a technical proving grounds for production engines,” said Allison. “What’s good enough for the streets is now good enough for the racetrack. The 5.0-liter block and architecture in theMustang BOSS 302R is the same as the 2011 Mustang GT.”

“We have a great team on the BOSS 302R project,” said Andy Slankard, Ford Racing engineering supervisor and the lead engineer on the BOSS 302R project. “Between our partners at AutoAlliance International, wherethe Mustang is built, Team Mustang, Multimatic and the entire Ford Racing team, we have once again proven to be a leader in turnkey production-based race cars.”

Available through Ford dealers, a total of 50 BOSS 302R Mustangs will be built by Ford Racing. Delivery is anticipated in the third quarter of 2010.

Ford will call the Kuga when it goes on sale here in 2011

2010-01-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

2008 Ford Kuga in front, possible 2011 Ford Kuga out back – click above for high-res image gallery

Here's the skinny: Ford's current Escape is heading the way of the dodo bird. In its place will be the Kuga, a much less dowdy looking compact CUV that should compete nicely with the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson. The European designed 2011 Kuga will be built here in the United States at a Louisville, Kentucky plant. All this we already know and have known for some time now.

What we don't know is what Ford will call the Kuga when it goes on sale here in 2011. Kuga is obviously one option, but so, apparently, is Escape. According to Wards Auto, Ford's domestic dealers are pushing for Escape. "I believe the Escape is a great vehicle with a great reputation and that it would be a big mistake to kill the Escape name," says one San Diego based dealer.

Others point back to Ford's decision to drop the Taurus name in favor of Five Hundred – part of the brand's strange decision to make all cars start with the letter "F" (Focus, Fusion, Five Hundred – though the Mustang never became Fustang) and all SUVs and crossovers start with the letter "E" (Edge, Escape, Explorer, Expedition, Excursion). Though, of course, reverting back to Five Hundred was supposed to drum up some long lost brand equity/nostalgia, which is the first thing CEO Alan Mulally did when he changed Five Hundred back to Taurus. Very complicated stuff, no?

So, Kuga or Escape? While there are many good arguments for Escape, here's one for Kuga – Ford's One World strategy. Simply put, rather than having one Focus for Europe and one for North America, Ford is working toward offering one global vehicle per a given segment – and that's it. And naming one car one thing for one market and one car another for another is essentially a monkey wrench in the plan. What should Ford do, and more importantly what will they do? Place your vote in our poll below and leave any further thoughts in Comments.

What should Ford call the Kuga when it reaches the U.S. market?

KugaEscapeNeither

Mugen-fettled Accord, Fit aren't the big Honda story from SEMA

2009-11-06T21:10:00.000-08:00

Mugen Honda Fit and Accord - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to announcing its plans to reinvigorate its participation in grassroots racing, Honda revealed two Mugen-accessorized models -- a 2010 Accord Sedan and Fit -- each outfitted with a range of parts available at dealers, but not a standalone model, ala Mugen Civic. While the 18-inch chrome wheels, front grille, spoilers, floor mats and machined aluminum oil filler cap are attractive additions to Honda's growing HFP line, needless to say, they leave us a bit cold when it comes the automaker's commitment to the aftermarket and, more to the point, performance.

Uninspiring SEMA efforts aside, the real news came last night during a meeting with Honda execs, where we were able to glean a few more details about Honda's future performance plans, how the CR-Z -- and more to the point, hybrids -- fit in and something to look out for next year.

Honda PR man Chuck Schifsky, told us that the Big H plans to use hybrids as a performance booster in the future, saying, "The CR-Z isn't the last step. It's the beginning." Although the real start of Honda's performance-marketed hybrids began with the last generation Accord Hybrid, Schifsky admits that its introduction was "ahead of its time," one of many reasons the electric-assisted sedan never quite caught on with consumers.

More interestingly, several Honda heads told us to expect something big in the world of motorsports next year -- likely in Japan. What that means is open to interpretation, but with Honda pulling its NSX out of SuperGT for 2010 (due to the front-engine, rear-drive chassis requirements), something interesting could be on the way. NSX revival? Lexus LFA fighter? Consider our interest extremely piqued...

Mugen Accessorized Honda Accord and Fit

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery

2009-11-06T16:50:00.000-08:00

Delta Tech Engineering Suzuki Kizashi - Click above image for high-res gallery

We totally dig the new 2010 Suzuki Kizashi. It's a bold step forward for Suzuki and (hopefully) a harbinger of great things to come, which also happens to be what "Kizashi" means. However, the looks are a little, well... not outstanding. Not that it's particularly bad-looking (it ain't), but what if it were a little more... special? SEMA to the rescue!

We've got a trio of modded Kizashis for you to peruse down in the gallery, but how about some background info up front? First up is Delta Tech Engineering's car which might be our favorite. Delta Tech specializes in lighting and every light on the car is either LED or HID. Even though big mouth-look grilles are on the way out fashion-wise, we like the snout on this guy. We also like the fact that it has a cold air intake, custom exhaust and Koni coilovers.

While we just said that the Delta Tech Engineering might be our favorite Kizashi, the Road Race Motorsports Platinum Edition Kizashi pushes all the right buttons with an even more aggressive body kit. It also features a custom air intake, engine management system and data logger. You also get 13-inch slotted rotors up front (though "only" 10-inches out back). Custom springs, sway bars and chassis stiffeners round the package out.

[UPDATE: We wrongly identified Westside's Kizashi as Import Tuner's car. A total mistake on our (my) part. Sorry 'bout that.]

Lastly, we've got Westside's custom Kizashi – a car we just can't wrap our heads around. From the Frankenstein's Monster neck-bolts as exhaust tips to the bizarre two-tone paint job to the Jianghuai GIGANTIC grill, we're totally, 100% not in love. And that's that.

Suzuki Kizashi Customs

Meet the world's most desirable Lexus RX450h by Branew

2009-11-06T16:42:00.000-08:00

Branew Lexus RX450h - click above image to view hi-res gallery

Let me be blunt: I don't like luxury crossovers. At all. It's a niche with no appeal to me whatsoever. Not a car, not a truck – just a fat sedan jacked up on stilts to woo trophy wives with fancy badges and reassure soccer mammas that their children are "safe." And the Lexus RX gets the sharp point of my spear of anger because it's basically responsible for the high-end CUV craze. Not a fan of hybrids, either. That said, I'm absolutely smitten with Branew's Lexus RX450h.

I think it's the stance, has to be. But there is just something very desirable – from an aesthetic standpoint. The big 24-inch wheels help tremendously, perching Branew's at just the right height. And the lower fascia helps the quite handsome – if not distinctive – OEM grill pop. And I know it's going to be a controversial opinion, but the koi fish on the hood totally work. In fact, I know a certain Subaru WRX that could use a koi or two. Anyhow, while I'd rather gargle nails than rock a luxo-CUV, if forced at gunpoint, Branew's RX450h would be my first (and only) choice.

Hummer quartet is a pretty sweet swansong

2009-11-06T16:20:00.000-08:00

2010 Hummer Robby Gordon Off-Road - Click above for high-res image gallery

We almost skipped the Hummer section of the General Motors booth this year at SEMA, concentrating instead on the plethora of Chevrolet Camaro concepts all around them. When we went back for a second look at the day's new design for the Graphics Camaro, we saw the truck above and figured we should probably reconsider avoiding HUMMER after all. We took some pics and scrounged up the press release which you'll find after the jump.

There were four different Hummers on display. The one shown above is a Robby Gordon Off-Road race truck that is absolutely ridiculous -- in a good way. This H3 was built to campaign in the 2010 Dakar Rally and is a full-blown, tube-chassis race truck, just like the Trophy Trucks you'll see running in the Baja 1000.

Next up was the Rod Hall Racing H3 Alpha. This is a stock-class desert runner that ran the 2009 SCORE International Baja 1000., meaning that it features a stock frame, stock suspension design and production-based engine.

The other two trucks were Hummer concepts. First up was the H3 Moab. Said to be inspired by trails like Steel Bender, Moab Rim, and Poison Spyder, it's a 300-horsepower, V8-powered H3 Alpha with dual locking differentials, a Rancho four-inch front suspension lift, custom rear spring-over conversion, and 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain KM2 tires mounted on custom 17-inch two-piece Monster Black Competition Beadlock Raceline Wheels by Allied.

Last but not least is the H3T Sportsman. It's been customized with a combination of powertrain modifications, suspension enhancements and an assortment of genuine factory accessories and aftermarket components. The standard Alpha 5.3-liter V8 has been boosted by a healthy 70 horsepower. Suspension upgrades include Light Racing JounceShocks and two-inch-diameter Rod Hall Racing piggyback reservoir-type performance shocks.

Altogether a pretty nifty quartet of Hummers that we'll probably never own. Check out the gallery and all the details after the jump.

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa

2009-10-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa could be back in the saddle as early as Monday. Massa hasn't been in an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, when a spring from another car flew up and hit him above his eye, fracturing his skull.

The first time he has even been back on track was last week when he took the wheel of a kart. Because of testing bans in place this season in F1, Massa can't drive the current car he was running until Hungary. As he gets back up to speed, the FIA has granted him permission to drive a 2007-spec car fitted with GP2 tires.

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator. Word has it he's already mastered Barcelona and is working hard at beating the Interlagos circuit now. Before taking the wheel of the 2007 car, he still needs to pass an examination, but once he's cleared, he could be on track in Italy by Monday. This will be testing only as the driver isn't expected to compete for Ferrari any more this season.

Cars and Coffee roadshow headed for New England

2009-10-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Cars and Coffee, the informal and inclusive wheeled hootenanny originated in Irvine, California has been spreading across the country faster than swine flu. There's no stage with bad cover bands, not a trophy in sight, but you're always likely to see some astounding vehicles.

Herb Chambers, New England dealership juggernaut, has thrown his support behind a New England gathering. "Herb himself is a super car enthusiast," says John Covell, Director of Marketing for the Herb Chambers Companies, "He thought that others would enjoy it." A new BMW dealership in Sudbury, MA, where the event is being held this Saturday, October 10th, is a supporting cast member.

Cynics may dismiss this as another ploy akin to inflatable dinosaurs, but when was the last time you were invited out by a car dealership to drink free coffee and ogle a McLaren F1 on a Saturday morning? Running from 7-10 AM, the inaugural event will be over before many people's days get under way. "Herb is passionate about cars and he's passionate about this business. If our customers understand that we share their passion, that's a good thing," sums up Covell. Hey, if he doesn't mind us drooling all over his McLaren, we'll agree.

New GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas

2009-06-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.

Hyundai HED-6 Compact SUV concept set to debut in Geneva - previews next generation of off-roaders.

2009-04-02T05:08:00.000-07:00

Hyundai is planning to unveil an all-new concept at this year’s Geneva Expo, Auto Express can reveal. Sporting a dramatic new look, the compact HED-6 gives a clear indication of how the firm’s next-generation of SUV’s will shape up, and judging by this teaser sketch the future looks bright.

The show car’s muscular styling features swept back headlights, a hexagonal grille and completes its look with a set of mirror-finish 21-inch alloys. Innovations include a sculpted rear window made from hi-tech plastic instead of regular glass and LED daytime running lights, while under the bonnet there’s a more conventional 175bhp 1.6-litre diesel.

Also on display at Geneva will be a sporty three-door version of the i20, due to go on sale in the second quarter of 2009, and the ultra-frugal i30 blue – the first model to feature Hyundai’s ISG stop-start technology.

New Hyundai HED-6 Concept, next-generation Tucson SUV preview

2009-04-02T05:07:00.002-07:00

Hyundai will also use the show to entrance the new i20 three-door which will become the new opening-degree form of the i20.

Hyundai HED-6 Concept leaks out

2009-04-02T05:07:00.001-07:00

Click above for a gallery of the Hyundai HED-6 concept

Hyundai HED-6 Concept: Zoom-Zoom?

2009-04-02T05:06:00.001-07:00

Hyundai reveals SUV concept car ahead of Geneva Motor Show première

• Computer rendering reveals dynamic styling for compact SUV

• Three-door i20 to debut at Geneva Show

• First application of stop-start technology to be shown on i30 blue

Offenbach, February 09th 2009

Equipped with LED daytime running lights and powered by a 175 HP, 1.6-litre GDi turbocharged engine, HED-6 gives an indication of the next generation of Hyundai SUVs.

i30 blue

Demonstrating the company's commitment to lowering vehicle CO2 emissions and reducing costs for consumers, Hyundai brings ISG (Idle Stop and Go) technology to a production car for the first time.

Ideal for city driving, the i30 blue will automatically switch the car's engine off when stationary.

Hyundai HED-6 Concept

2009-03-23T08:37:00.000-07:00