Suzuki Adds SX4 Saloon to its UK Lineup

Suzuki has finally rolled out a four-door sedan version of the SX4 for the UK market. Measuring 4,510mm in length, 1,730mm in width and 1,545mm in height, the sedan’s most prominent feature is its enlarged boot capacity that has 515 liters. Priced from at £11,895, the sedan is offered with a 107HP 1.6-liter engine that powers the car from nought to 62 mph (100km/h) in 10.7 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).

According to Suzuki, in combined cycle driving, the SX4 saloon returns a combined fuel consumption of 41.5 mpg UK with CO2 emissions of 165g/km. 

The SX4 Saloon is similarly equipped to the SX4 1.6 GLX five-door hatchback and comes with six airbags, four electric windows, MP3/WMA compatible CD tuner, automatic air conditioning, 15-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and start and heated door mirrors as standard.

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Shelby loses court battle to trademark Cobra shape

Shelby and Factory Five Racing have been going at it for years. Back in 2000, Shelby filed suit against the Massachusetts-based replica builder, which resulted in Factory Five being allowed to continue building cars as long as it made no reference to the terms “Cobra,” “427 S/C,” “Shelby,” “Shelby Cobra,” “Daytona Coupe” or “Daytona Coupe Cobra.” Eight years of apparent peace passed until Shelby again filed suit against FFR because the company felt that the the replica builder’s Type 65 Coupe name was too close to its Shelby Daytona Coupe. The court ruled in favor of Factory Five.

The two companies went back to court a third time because Shelby recently attempted to patent the shape of the Cobra. Well, the case has been settled and the result is yet effectively another victory for Factory Five Racing. The United States Trademark Trial and Appeal Board felt that the shape of the Cobra does not solely belong to Carroll Shelby. Factory Five had the following to say:

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China’s BAIC gunning to buy Pininfarina

Beijing Automotive Industry Corp, or BAIC, is looking to buy Italian design firm Pininfarina. The Chinese automaker is already working with Pininfarina in collaboration on its upcoming models based on older Saabs.

Since mid-2009, Pininfarina’s family ownership has been looking to unload its majority stake in the company. Interest from several Chinese automakers has been piqued and BAIC is not alone in bidding for the right to purchase the design house. Brilliance and Anhui Jianghuai Automobile have put in bids, as have Indian automakers Mahindra and Bajaj Auto and Canadian parts supplier Magna International.

Regardless of BAIC submitting a winning bid, work with Pininfarina is proceeding and we expect to see the fruits of both companies’ efforts at a car show sometime in the very near future.

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Peugeot to ditch numbered nameplates for actual names

Some automakers call their cars by name. Others give them alphanumeric designations. The trouble with the latter is that, if you follow a formula, sooner or later the sequence is going to either run out or repeat itself. That’s the issue that Peugeot is looking at with the next generation of its popular hatchback range.

The current model is called the 308, so it would follow logically that its successor be called the 309. After that the French automaker would have to either abandon the traditional _0_ naming scheme that identifies all its products (and the _00_ for minivans and crossovers) and dip into the _1_ range, but even before that comes up, Peugeot’s facing the issue that it already produced a model called the 309 between 1985 and 1993.

Rather than reuse the same nameplate, sources speculate that Peugeot could go for a name designation like it did with the RCZ coupe. The formula would likely follow across the range, leaving sister-company Citroën to stick with its alphanumeric C_ and DS_ naming scheme.

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GAZ Siber to switch from Chrysler Sebring to MB E Class !

Russian automotive manufacturer GAZ is being courted by a number of handsome suitors, according to Inside Line. While the company currently produces the Volga Siber at its Gorky Automobile plant, there’s some indication that Daimler may want the facility to switch to building the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The move would kinda sorta be an all-in-the-family affair as the Siber is currently built off of the old Chrysler Sebring platform. With Chrysler out of Daimler’s portfolio and Mercedes-Benz looking to take the Russian assault to its rival BMW, the move would make plenty of sense. It would also seem to be a rather large step up from its current configuration.

The thing is, GAZ has also been spending late nights on the phone with the likes of Tata to produce that company’s Indicar. At the same time, General Motors has been wooing Tata to manufacture any number of its vehicles. At this point, it’s anyone’s guess as to which company will win the GAZ plant’s heart, but Inside Line seems to think that GM has the best bet out of the field of potentials. The reason? Bo Anderson, the new chairman of GAZ, used to be the head of worldwide purchasing for The General. How’s that for a love trapezoid?

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Proudia and Dignity Mitsubishi Back to the Luxury Segment

Mitsubishi finally has a premium sedan models. Although not born from the concept itself, but this large sedan could have raised the prestige of the old Diamond Three dim in the luxury car segment.

Proudia and Dignity. These are the two cars will fill the ranks of the premium sedan Mitsubishi. Despite the two names, but actually Proudia and Dignity is a base model vehicle.
Both certainly have differences: Proudia stands as a variant that offers the luxury of a full, while Dignity made with a long wheelbase.

Both cars can be owned by Mitsubishi as the cooperation with Nissan. For both the sedan, Nissan gave the right to use the model and the Infiniti M Infiniti M35hL LWB (model specific China market, or in Japan known as the Nissan Cima).

Differences with the Infiniti Proudia and Dignity lies in the use of the front grill and front bumper sculpture reproduced.

For the variant equipped with two engine choices Proudia, the 3.7-liter V6-powered 328 hp with the type of rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (AWD), and 2.5-liter V6 222 hp.

While for the Dignity which has a longer wheelbase 150mm embedded hybrid technology, collaboration gasoline engine 3.5-liter V6 with electric motors. Gift from Infiniti M35h engine produces 395 hp total power.

In Japan, Proudia offered by price from 4 million yen (approximately 50 400 U.S. dollars) for the 2.5-liter engine variants, to expensive for Dignity VIP worth 8.4 million yen (approximately 105 200 U.S. dollars).

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Rumormill Lotus Esprit to use LFA V10 V8 in lesser spec

Now this is a rumor. According to the crafty crew at Inside Line, Lotus is set to release details on its planned resurrection of the long-dead Esprit at this year’s Paris Motor Show. Even better? There’s some indication that the top-of-the-line model may pack the same heavenly V10 found in the current Lexus LFA. Oh yes, we’re excited. Inside Line spoke with someone at Lexus who’s cozy with the deal who hinted that the 552-horsepower 10-pot would find its way into the car in order to help it better compete with the likes of Ferrari. That’s right, kids; Lotus is movin’ on up.

There’s also word that lower-rung trims will receive the same 5.0-liter V8 found in the Lexus IS-F. With 416 horsepower, that lump is no slouch. Both engine choices would seem to dovetail with the close partnership we’ve seen between Lotus and Lexus parent company Toyota in the past, and with new Lotus CEO Dany Bahar (formerly of Ferrari) clamoring for ever more powerful, upscale models, all of the puzzle pieces seem to be falling into place.

Still, that’s almost way too much awesome for most manufacturers to handle. Fortunately, the Paris show is just a handful of weeks away, so we should know which parts of this rumor are solid in short order.

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Next Toyota Highlander to form basis for new Subaru Tribeca

From the sound of things, Subaru and Toyota are getting cozier than ever. According to Motor Trend, the two companies are currently exploring ways to integrate platforms, and the fruit of that exploration may very well be the next Tribeca. MT is reporting that engineers are currently looking for ways to base the next-generation Subaru crossover on the bones of the Toyota Highlander. Both models are slated for replacement in 2014, and there’s some indication that the two vehicles will share more than a few bolts when they debut.

According to MT, the project isn’t without hiccups, however. As with the FT-86, both companies need to find a way to work around the Subaru 3.6-liter flat-six found in the nose of the current Tribeca. MTpoints out that the FT-86 avoided this issue by simply using the Subaru engine in the Toyota variant of the sports coupe, though at this point it’s unclear how the Tribeca/Highlander will overcome that particular hurdle. In addition, the crossover platform will also need room for the Highlander hybrid model’s battery packs, which may mean that Subaru will jump into the gas-electric game as well.

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Vorsteiner now to Lamborghinis

Coming soon ... it says on the official website of Vosteiner. A preview of their Lamborghini program however, we have already. This is the Vorsteiner V-Renazzo, based on the (old) Gallardo.

The Lamborghini Gallardo will therefore bear the brunt of Vorsteiners announced new tuning program for Lamborghini. Sorry, you do not have to, because the California-based tuner takes the factory front and rear so radically that few will find themselves with preface lift Gallardo face.

Quality first
The Renazzo-V styling will be available for both the LP560-4 as the LP570-4 Superleggera, and if possible, the new Lamborghini Gallardo. The latter is not clear, but about Vorsteiner will undoubtedly tell if their Lamborghini program officially represents. What is certain is that there are a variety of flavors wheels are provided, and that in the sizes 19 or 20 inches. Also wants Vorsteinerre already at the heart of all key styling components will be made of carbon fiber and then very accurately connect to the existing panels.

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Suzuki Kizashi Revealed – Hybrid Model to Follow Mega Gallery with 100 High Res Photos

The production version of the Suzuki Kizashi sedan was officially revealed today in a special launch event in Detroit. Built at Suzuki’s new manufacturing plant in Sagara, Japan, the Kizashi will serve as the company’s flagship model when it arrives in North American showrooms this winter. Available in both front- and all-wheel drive versions, Suzuki’s Mazda6 and VW Passat rival will initially be offered with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine linked to either a 6-speed manual transmission or optionally, a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

While the Japanese automaker did not disclose any output figures for the base four-cylinder engine, Suzuki did reveal that other powertrain options are also under development for the Kizashi including a fuel efficient hybrid version that will be added to the lineup in the very near future.

Built on a brand-new platform, the Kizashi features MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup in the back with Suzuki supporting that the sedan will offer drivers “a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience”.

An Electronic Stability Program and anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution as well as the Suzuki-developed synergetic vehicle dynamic control system that assists drivers control will be offered as standard on the Kizashi.

Measuring in at 183.1 in. (4,650 mm) long, 71.7 in. (1,820 mm) wide and 58.3 in. (1,480 mm) high with a wheelbase of 106.3 in. (2,700mm), the Kizashi is roughly the same size as the latest generation Audi A4 Sedan.

Despite the fact that the Kizashi originated from the Concept Kizashi series introduced over the last two years, the production model’s styling is far less dramatic, which is a shame as the concept study featured an extremely well executed design that received positive reactions from European and North American consumers alike.

As for the mid-size sedan’s interior, Suzuki’s designers crafted an elegant looking dashboard that features an Alfa Romeo-esque instrument panel with two deeply set gauges and an uncluttered center console.

More details as well as North American prices are expected to be released closer to the sedan’s sales launch in December. Suzuki has yet to announce when the Kizashi will arrive in other international markets.

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2011 Renault fluence officially slid to the Indian market

2011 Renault fluence officially slid to the Indian market. Renault fluence luxury sedan became the first product from 5 products to be launched in India Renault until the end of 2012.

In October 2011, Renault will sell Renault Koleos. The next three products after 2012, including an SUV model.

All models are assembled at the Renault factory in Chennai. India "The launch of fluence in India is the beginning of the massive attack on one of the pillars of the international market Renault," said Marc Nassif, Managing Director, Renault India.

"With the Chennai factory, and the center design, engineering and logistics, plus a dealer network that will reach 100 outlets by the end of 2012, Renault India offers to its customers a variety of vehicles of good quality and fit with local market conditions,"said Nassif.

Since a few years later, the new car market in India is growing very rapidly, up 20%. In 2005, new car sales reached 1.2 million units.

Throughout 2011, is expected to reach 3 million units. Whereas in 2015 predicted 3.7 million units sold - making India the fourth largest market in the world.

Based on data from 2009, about 60% of consumers in India is the first car buyer. And 57% of car buyers there were under 35 years

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Honda to start selling All New CR V in Los Angeles

Honda announced that they start selling the newest SUV, the All-New CR-V or fourth-generation CR-V. This SUV also recently launched in the United States two weeks ago at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

For Japan and Asia, utilizing Honda Tokyo Motor Show 2011 event that was opened tomorrow. In its release, Honda said sales of the All-New CR-V in Japan just made on December 2.

Since it was first introduced in 1995, Honda claims the CR-V sales has reached 5 million units worldwide (based on data in September).

4 x 2 & AWD
According to Honda, the All-New CR-V now appear more sleek and aerodynamic. Hence also, this SUV is more economical, more comfortable, and the greater power and unloading. This can be achieved due to a redesign that made Honda including lowering the height of the roof, but with a lower floor.

CR-V Dashboard totally redesigned and now uses better quality materials. Further, Honda managed to indulge in the weight of this car. Furthermore, to ease the workload of the machine, now used electric power steering (EPS).

Exterior dimensions of this new CR-V is more compact than the previous CR-V. Section, the deduction is so long and also lowers the height of the roof. However, the length of the interior actually increased due to the position of the glass front moved forward again.

Two machines
For the machine offered two options, 2.4 liters for four-wheel motion or AWD and 2.0-liter for front wheels (4 x 2). For version 2.0 liters, the engine is equipped i-VTEC technology. Engine power is transferred to the wheels through a CVT with a torque converter. Claimed fuel consumption of 14.4 km per liter.

The All-New CR-V 2.4-liter engine equipped with 5-speed automatic transmission. Engine power in this model increased by 10 kW compared to the current version. This is attained because the compression ratio is made higher, plus the friction in the lower engine components.

Intelligent AWD is equipped Varian Control System. Its function is to produce a more responsive acceleration on slippery road surfaces. Rear seats can be folded with the composition 60/40, also equipped automatic button to fold.

Other features are Bluetooth, rear parking camera, USB connection, and the system allows the driver to write the information from the BlackBerry.

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Porsche looking to China for production of Cajun CUV

When Porsche was integrated into the Volkswagen group, its new parent company set an ambitious sales target for its latest division: 150,000 units annually. That would require a 50% increase in sales, but Porsche figures it can hit the far more ambitious target of 200,000 units per year for a 100% increase.

To get there, however, Porsche realizes its current production capacity will not be enough. And so it will need to produce vehicles at additional facilities, which could include plants in the United States and China.

The latter would seem a logical first step as the Audi Q5, on which the upcoming Cajun SUV is based, is already being built in China. Beyond the Cajun, however, production in the United States – still the biggest market for Porsche – could be in the cards within a few years.

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Journalist Sue Mead racer Darren Skilton become first U S team to win a class in Dakar Rally

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is still proving that it can do whatever deed needs done, whenever it needs doing. Sue Mead and Darren Skilton managed to pilot a largely stock version of the desert-raiding pickup through all 12 stages of this year’s Dakar rally. The team survived 16 days of some of the most brutal terrain on the South American continent and covered over 11,800 miles in the process. Their effort was enough to net the Raptor a 40th place finish over all and a first place finish in the OP class.

In fact, from what we hear, Mead and Skilton were the only contestants to even finish in the OP class, even with big names like Robbie Gordon gunning for the win.

That marks the first time that an American crew has ever managed to take a class win in the history of the Dakar Rally. The F-150 SVT Raptor that Mead and Skilton campaigned boasted the same 5.4-liter V8 that it rolled off the production line with, though a larger cooling system was fitted to handle the harsh temperatures of the course. Likewise, the pickup was equipped with a host of other race-capable bits including a new locker system for the differentials, more robust shocks, springs and tires.

Overall, Volkswagen took the top three spots in the 2011 Dakar Rally. BMW filled out the remaining spots in the top five with its entries. Hit the jump for the press release.

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Lotus makes the city car Futuristic to consume 55 Km liter

Lotus Engineering claimed capable of making fuel-efficient vehicles with gasoline consumption 55 km / liter. In the companys internal design projects that were done, say, the car could be said they are small and three passengers.

The position of the driver and passengers in the city car that Lotus could also just as we see in Baja. The driver was in front in the middle position, while two passengers sit in the backseat.

According to Lotus Engineering CEO Darren Somerset, fuel-efficient city car will move with Lotus motorcycle engine capacity of 600cc 2-cylinder.

The machine itself will be placed under the rear passenger seat. In addition to maximizing space, position the engine behind the aim to improve the safety of users when it comes to the crunch. Darren even sure Lotus city car safety systems will qualify for the Euro-NCAP crash test.

This car, according to Darren, will be priced at about 10 thousand U.S. dollars. Prices can be as cheap as it is because Lotus is limiting the features that make the price of the car can be expensive.

As explained Darren, Lotus will not give the instrument panel. In front of the driver will only be issued a docking (connector) for smart phones (smartphone).

Through that device, various information, such as the speedometer, fuel indicator, and climate control in the show to a smartphone.

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Official Opel Insignia Heading to the USA as the Buick Regal

General Motors officially announced today that the name of Buick’s next mid-size sport sedan will be the Regal. Even though the Detroit automaker did not hand out any photos other than a cropped image of the sedan, chances are that the US-spec model will be identical to the Chinese market Buick Regal which in turn is based on the European Opel Insignia. These two models differ only in some details such as the styling of the front grille, the shape of the front fog lights and the exterior mirrors.

“The transformation of Buick began with our luxury crossover, the Buick Enclave and continued this year with the launch of the 2010 LaCrosse premium sedan,” said Susan Docherty, Buick GMC General Manager. “We’re thrilled to announce that the Regal will be the next member of the Buick family.”

GM said that even though the Regal name has been out of the market for the past six years it continues to be one of the top Buick nameplates recalled by consumers.

Before entering bankruptcy and the decision to either sell or close its Saturn business (GM recently announced the death of the brand after negotiations broke down with Penske Automotive), the Detroit automaker had planned to replace the Aura with the Insignia.

General Motors did not say when the Regal will go on sale in the States, but buyers should expect to see the sleek sedan arriving at dealerships sometime towards the end of 2010 or early 2011. Engine options will most likely include 4-cylinder turbocharged units as well as a V6.

And what’s that we hear you say about a Buick Regal GNX? Well, your guess is as good as ours, but the recent introduction of the European Opel Insignia OPC that packs an all-wheel drive system and a 325HP 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 means that a sporty GNX model is completely feasible.

The Opel Insignia is also offered in Europe as a five-door liftback and a sleek-looking station wagon called Sports Tourer, but we wouldn’t hold our breath for an American release for neither model.

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