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2009 Toyota Venza
2008-01-17 20:19:00
World Debut Of All-New Venza At 2008 North American International Auto Show January 14, 2008 ? Detroit, MI - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new 2009 Venza crossover sedan at a press conference here today at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Venza will raise the crossover vehicle to new levels by combining a unique blend of sedan refinement and sport utility vehicle (SUV) functionality. 2009 Toyota Venza "The all-new Venza was developed as a vehicle that combines the styling, comfort and fun-to-drive performance elements of a five-passenger sedan with the surprising utility of an SUV," said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. "This winning combination will be ideal for active ?boomers' and young couples with small families." All aspects of Venza's engineering and design were targeted specifically for the North American market where it will be sold exclusively. Venza was primarily engineered at Toyota...

Saturn Vue Green Line Plug-in Hybrid SUV May Begin Production in 2010
2008-01-17 20:18:00
Expected to be First Commercially Available, OEM-produced Plug -in Hybrid 2008-01-14, DETROIT - Saturn announced today at the North American International Auto Show that production may begin as soon as 2010 on a plug-in hybrid electric version of the Saturn Vue Green Line, expected to be the first regular production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Depending on a consumer's drive cycle, the Vue plug-in hybrid will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle offered by a major automaker. Saturn Vue Green Line Plug-in Hybrid This Vue Green Line will use a modified version of GM's two-mode hybrid system and plug-in technology, a lithium-ion battery pack, highly efficient electronics and powerful electric motors to achieve significant increases in fuel economy. When the lithium-ion batteries are fully charged, the Vue plug-in hybrid will potentially double the fuel efficiency of any current SUV. After electric-only propulsion depletes the lithium-ion energy storage system to a specified level, ...
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2008 Chrysler LLC Concept Vehicles Revealed at NAIAS
2008-01-17 20:18:00
Seamless advanced technology meets stunning, emotional design; Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Technology taken to new level Detroit, Jan 14, 2008 - Three passionate designs combine with three advanced propulsion systems. The result: high-tech, innovative vehicles with alternative fuel choices ? and exciting design and brand character. Chrysler LLC?s mission to be more environmentally responsible is significantly changing how we envision vehicles in our future portfolio. Jeep Renegade Concept As the entire automotive industry has basically the same technology pool from which to draw, our design challenge remains similar to what it has always been: How do we distinguish Chrysler?s future designs from the rest of the pack? Even in this environment, we must create emotional designs, and must offer vehicles that people will really want to own and drive. Dodge ZEO Concept So we have challenged ourselves to unleash our design passion ? in combination with these future technologies and l...
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Nissan Announces Pricing on All-New 2009 Nissan Murano
2008-01-17 20:17:00
More Powerful, Redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano Priced $1,500 Less Than 2007 Models NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 15, 2007) - Nissan North America, Inc. today announced pricing on the all-new, totally redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano crossover with a starting Manufacturer?s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $1,500 lower on all models versus the previous generation. The 2009 Nissan Murano goes on sale this week at Nissan dealers nationwide. 2009 Nissan Murano The original Nissan Murano set new standards for style and sportiness when it was first introduced, becoming, in essence, a ?class of one.? The all-new, second generation 2009 Nissan Murano elevates that unique position with new exterior and interior designs, enhanced technology and a premium driving feel resulting from a new, advanced platform and continued refinement of Murano?s standard 265-horsepower V6 engine (an increase of 25 horsepower over the previous generation) and advanced, second-generation Xtronic CVT?. ?When Murano was introduce...

Segway, General Motors Continue Collaboration on Eco-Friendly Transportatio
2008-01-17 20:16:00
Saturn Flextreme with Integrated Segway PTs Unveiled at 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) DETROIT, Jan. 14, 2008 -- Today at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Segway Inc. and General Motors (GM) are showcasing a comprehensive solution for eco-friendly mobility - the Saturn Flextreme concept car with integrated Segway(R) Personal Transporters (PTs). Saturn Flextreme with Integrated Segway PTs: DETROIT - Two Segway(R) Personal Transporters are shown with General Motors ' Saturn Flextreme concept. The concept is on display at the 2008 North American International Show (NAIAS). (PRNewsFoto/Segway Inc./Axel Weirdemann) The Saturn Flextreme is built on GM's global E-Flex electric drive architecture that was first debuted by the Opel brand at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show last October. The Flextreme design is the first functional automotive concept that integrates an onboard storage and charging system for two Segway PTs. "Segway is committed to dev...
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Audi R8 Sports Car Goes Diesel in Detroit at 2008 NAIAS
2008-01-17 20:16:00
Audi's R8-based concept car delivers 500PS and 1,000 Nm thanks to V12 TDI power Jan 14, 2008 -- After ripping up the Le Mans racing rulebook with the diesel-powered R10 TDI, Audi is exploring the possibility of breaking yet another mould with a road-going R8-based TDI super-car. The R8 V12 TDI Concept makes its debut at this month?s North American International Auto Show in Detroit , replacing the production sports car?s mid-mounted petrol FSI V8 with a 12-cylinder TDI endowed with an incredible 1,000Nm of torque. 2008 Audi R8 Highlights:? Design study based on acclaimed R8 road car adopts 6.0-litre, 12-cylinder TDI engine first seen in Q7 V12 TDI? Debuted on Press Day at the North American International Auto Show on January 13? 6.0-litre bi-turbo TDI engine develops 500PS and 1,000Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 3,000rpm. 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds, top speed in excess of 186mph? Already complies with proposed EU6 emission limits expected to apply from 2014, thanks to highly efficient co...
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ADAC award "Yellow Angel 2008": Mercedes-Benz C-Class is Germany?s Favorite
2008-01-17 20:12:00
The Mercedes -Benz C-Class has emerged the winner of Germany ?s largest vote for the most popular car by a wide margin. Accordingly the motoring organisation ADAC has presented its sought-after "Yellow Angel 2008" award to this Stuttgart-made public favourite. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class 4MATIC Sedan The "Yellow Angel" awards, which the ADAC presents annually for outstanding performance, are named after the nickname given to the ADAC?s friendly breakdown service personnel and are among Europe?s most sought-after motoring awards. Consumers find them a valuable decision-making guide, as criteria such as price/performance ratio, practicality, economy, safety and environmental compatibility also play a part in the selection process. The vote was between 36 vehicles which newly entered the market in 2007. Around 340,000 people cast their votes and awarded first place to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class by a wide margin over the runner-up. Europe?s largest motoring association ? it has around 16 mi...
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Mercedes-Benz Launches SLR McLaren Roadster
2008-01-15 18:55:00
206-MPH Super Sports GT Goes Topless DETROIT, MI ? A roadster version of the formidable SLR McLaren super sports coupe is in the spotlight at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. Powered by a supercharged 5.5-liter, 617-hp AMG V8 engine, the SLR McLaren Roadster boasts 0-60 mph acceleration of only 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 206 mph. 2008 Mercedes -Benz SLR McLaren Roadster Showcasing Formula 1 technology for the street, the SLR McLaren Roadster?s carbon fiber monocoque provides high torsional rigidity for outstanding handling as well as unparalleled protection in collisions. U.S. deliveries of the new roadster model began in Fall 2007. A Convertible Top Designed for High-Speed Driving Thanks to its fully retractable top, the SLR Roadster offers open-air driving pleasure that?s practical for everyday use. Available in three different color combinations, the retractable top of the new SLR Roadster blends into its aerodynamic silhouette, and newly developed roof materi...
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First Look: The New-Generation Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadster
2008-01-15 18:54:00
More powerful, more economical, more intense: rediscovering intelligent roadster driving enjoyment The Mercedes -Benz SLK-Class Roadsters have long captured the hearts of sports car enthusiasts. Incorporating around 650 newly developed components, the SLK models of 2008 are even more dynamic and now offer an even more emotionally charged driving experience. New-Generation Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadster Since their first appearance in 1996, the compact SLK Roadsters have come to symbolize the dynamic Mercedes-Benz brand image. Already a familiar sight on our roads, the second-generation two-seater is to be further enhanced with the implementation of extensive measures in 2008, the aim being to further emphasise the car's sporty character and continue the SLK-Class success story by introducing new, dynamic, powerful elements. Some 310,000 first-generation roadster models were sold between 1996 and 2004. And approximately 185,000 customers ? some 60,000 of them in Germany alone ? hav...
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Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG
2008-01-15 18:54:00
2008 MY C63 AMG Sedan Features 451-Horsepower AMG V8 Engine DETROIT, MI ? The high-performance Mercedes -Benz C63 AMG is on display at the 2008 North American International Auto Show, open to the public January 19-27, 2008. Following the widely acclaimed launch of the new-generation 2008 C-Class sedan earlier this year, the V8-powered C63 AMG represents an impressive top-of-the-line addition to the popular C-Class model family. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG The New C63 AMG ? Visually and Technologically Distinctive Making its U.S showroom debut in April 2008, the 2008MY C63 AMG is distinguished by unique AMG body styling, 18-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension and high-performance brake system ? all designed by AMG specifically for this new model. The C63 AMG can be easily identified by a special front hood with two power domes and a muscular front apron with large air intakes and side air outlets as well as fog lights ringed in chrome. A ?6.3 AMG? badge marks each front fender, and co...
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World Premiere For Vision GLK: Entry Luxury SUV From Mercedes-Benz
2008-01-15 18:54:00
Vision GLK: one SUV with two different faces The Vision GLK FREESIDE and Vision GLK TOWNSIDE represent two expressions of the same vehicle which are set to take the SUV world by storm. By presenting these two different vehicle profiles, Mercedes -Benz is highlighting the tremendous potential of the entry luxury SUV study, which is making its world debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Freeside Whereas the Vision GLK FREESIDE is an all-rounder that showcases the capabilities of today's SUV vehicles both on and off the road, the TOWNSIDE version is designed to make its mark with dynamic performance on the tarmac. The Vision GLK FREESIDE and Vision GLK TOWNSIDE provide a stylistically sound preview of a future midsize SUV model bursting with character. The two studies incorporate elements taken from the original angular design of the G-Class, whilst at the same time impressing with design features typical of today's Merc...
More About: World , Luxury , Mercedes Benz

2008 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Boasts New AMG Sport Package
2008-01-15 18:53:00
E320 BLUETEC Shares Spotlight with High-Performance E63 AMG The highly successful E-Class line of full-size sedans and wagons features an impressively broad and versatile range of models for 2008. Spanning from the thrifty, super-clean E320 BLUETEC diesel to the 507-hp E63 AMG, the E-Class offers the perfect car for an equally diverse range of consumer needs. 2008 Mercedes -Benz E300 BLUETEC and E350 CGI The E320 BLUETEC luxury sedan delivers up to 32 miles per gallon (highway cycle), while at the other end of the product spectrum, the high-performance E63 AMG can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in an eye-popping 4.3 seconds. New AMG Sport Package Offered To complement its popular sport package (comprised of lowered sport suspension, 18-inch wheels, a sport rear bumper with dual chrome exhaust pipes, blue-tinted glass and white gauges), the E350 and E550 models are now available with an optional AMG Sport package that includes deeper front and rear aprons with dual exhausts, 18-inch ...
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Chrysler's Fuel-Efficient HEMI Hybrid to Power New Dodge Ram 1500 Pickup
2008-01-15 18:52:00
HEMI® Hybrid to Join Cummins Turbodiesel in Future Ram Power train Lineup Auburn Hills, Mich., Jan 13, 2008 - Chrysler LLC added to its list of fuel efficient powertrain offerings for the all-new Dodge Ram 1500 pickup today, announcing that the company?s advanced two-mode hybrid will join the light-duty Dodge Ram powertrain lineup for 2010. The Dodge Ram HEMI® Hybrid joins the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango in the Chrysler hybrid vehicle lineup. 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 Last year, the company also announced that it would introduce a Cummins turbodiesel engine after 2009 for the Dodge Ram 1500. The engine will meet 50-state emissions standards, and will deliver a 30-percent fuel economy improvement. ?Dodge Ram is known for capability, utility and performance,? said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President ? Product Development, Chrysler LLC. ?The addition of hybrid and diesel powertrains to our all-new Dodge Ram 1500 lineup is sure to attract an array of new customers looking for the ultim...
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2009 Dodge Ram
2008-01-15 18:52:00
First-in-segment coil-spring, multilink rear suspension fitted to a solid rear axle provides ride and handling capabilities unexpected in a pickup truck Detroit, Jan 13, 2008 - Emerging from a herd of 120 long horn cattle driven by 10 cowboys on horseback down Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit today, the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. 2009 Dodge Ram Sport "Since the dawn of the 'big rig' look, Dodge Ram has always been a game-changer," said Jim Press, Vice Chairman and President, Chrysler LLC. "And this is our all-new game-changer -- the all-new 2009 Dodge Ram, which is packed with full-size pickup firsts and best-in-class features." In 1994, Dodge introduced a revolutionary Ram in the light-duty pickup market, with its ?big rig? styling and iconic crosshair grille. ?We put a truck on the market that tripled our market share,? said Ralph Gilles, Vice President ? Jeep®/Truck Design Studio, Chrysler LLC. ?Our design w...

Lexus Announces Pricing for All-New 2008 Lexus IS F
2008-01-15 18:52:00
Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 IS F high-performance sport sedan. The IS F is the first production model to wear the new ?F? badge and is the fastest Lexus production car ever built. The 2008 IS F launches onto the market carrying a base MSRP of $56,000. 2008 Lexus IS F The 2008 Lexus IS F is exclusively powered by a performance-tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 371 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. With the implementation of a dual air intake system, high-flow cylinder heads with titanium intake valves designed by Yamaha, Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and Electrically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE) and other technological advancements, the engine outputs 83.2 hp per liter allowing the IS F to accelerate from 0 to 60 in a blistering 4.6 seconds and achieve a maximum track speed of 170 mph. The IS F 5.0-liter engine is mated to the world's first eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift...
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2008 Lexus LF-A Takes on Roadster Form
2008-01-15 18:50:00
An Open Version of the Supercar Concept Revealed January 13, 2008 - Detroit, MI - The engineers and designers at Lexus continue to use their groundbreaking LF-A premium sports car concept as a medium for expressing their ideas about what a high-performance sporting vehicle not only can be, but should be. In this latest expression of the LF-A, they have removed the car's top to create a high-performance roadster. 2008 Lexus LF-A Roadster The LF-A Roadster is based on the sturdy yet lightweight carbon-fiber and aluminum body used for the LF-A coupe, which helps maintain the structure's strength and rigidity even without a top. Like its coupe counterpart, the LF-A Roadster is powered by a high-revving V10 engine that approaches 5.0 liters in displacement. The V10, capable of more than 500 horsepower and test-track speeds greater than 200 mph, is mounted in front of the passenger compartment but behind the front-axle centerline in what the LF-A's engineers refer to as a "front-mid" c...
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Mercedes-Benz at NAIAS 2008
2008-01-15 18:50:00
Mercedes-Benz celebrates a double world premiere in Detroit: Debut appearance of entry luxury SUV and the new-generation SLK Detroit ? The Vision GLK FREESIDE and Vision GLK TOWNSIDE represent two expressions of the same vehicle which are set to take the SUV world by storm. Both of these studies are celebrating their world premiere at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Whereas the Vision GLK FREESIDE showcases the capabilities of today's SUV vehicles both on and off the road, the TOWNSIDE version is designed to make its mark with dynamic performance on the tarmac. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Freeside By presenting two such different profiles, Mercedes-Benz is seeking to demonstrate the tremendous potential of the mid-size SUV study. The new generation of the SLK is also making its debut in Detroit. It is now even more dynamic, and offers a brand of emotionally-charged driving pleasure that is more intense than ever. Key visual changes include the restyled...
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Scion Announces Pricing For xB Release Series 5.0
2008-01-15 18:50:00
To Be Displayed At The 2008 North American International Auto Show January 11, 2008 - Torrance, CA - Scion , of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced today that the first limited-production Scion for 2008, the xB Release Series 5.0 (xB R.S. 5.0), will be available at dealer showrooms beginning in Feburary. The 2008 xB Release Series 5.0 features dazzling Gold Rush Mica exterior paint inspired by last year's Chicago Auto Show xB display vehicle. 2008 Scion xB Customized This limited edition xB features a KenStyle® body kit, new Release Series wheel covers, and a moonroof, an xB first. A color-keyed rear spoiler will also be available. Inside, the xB features a Gold Rush Mica accented interior trim and color-tuned seat fabric. Individual numbered badging completes the uniqueness of this vehicle. Only 2,500 units of the xB Release Series 5.0 will be built. The xB Release Series 5.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $2,470 over the base price of ...

Ford Shelby GT500KR Roars into Production
2008-01-15 18:50:00
First 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR rolls off the production line on Carroll Shelby?s 85th birthday LAS VEGAS, Jan. 11, 2008 ? Automotive legend Carroll Shelby shares his 85th birthday with a new performance standout ? the 540-horsepower 2008 GT500KR, which begins production today. 2008 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 KR Highlights:* The 540-horsepower muscle car dubbed ?King of the Road? will arrive at select Ford dealerships this spring for an exclusive run of only 1,000 units. * Ford SVT and Goodyear to debut a new performance compound tire for North America on Shelby GT500KR. The GT500KR or ?King of the Road? Mustang is the fourth limited-edition Mustang that Shelby Automobiles and Ford have brought to market since resuming their collaboration in 2001. It builds on the performance and success of the 500-horsepower Shelby GT500 ? the most powerful production Mustang ever. The new GT500KR will be available at select Ford dealerships this spring. Production is limited at 1,000 units. ?It i...

2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan Win 2008 International
2008-01-15 18:49:00
Once again, Chrysler LLC?s ?family rooms on wheels? have been awarded highest honors. For the first time in the award?s history, the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan captured all of the votes for best minivans as awarded by the 2008 International Car of the Year Awards (ICOTY) jurors, leaving no room for third-place contenders. 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan The 2008 Chrysler Town & Country earned first-place in two categories, International Truck of the Year and The Most Compatible Minivan of the Year. The 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan earned second place in The Most Compatible Minivan of the Year category as well. In addition, the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan "Rooms" television spot won The Heart String Award from the ICOTY jury for the most emotionally compelling car advertisement. "We?re honored to have earned the accolades of jurors on the ICOTY panel for our all-new minivans,? said Deborah Meyer, Vice-President and Chief Marketing Officer. ?These awards s...

BMW Announces Pricing for All-New BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan at 2008 NAIAS
2008-01-15 18:48:00
During its press conference today at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, BMW announced the pricing for the highly anticipated 2008 BMW M3 Coupe and 2008 BMW M3 Sedan . When the vehicles go on sale in March, the Coupe will be priced at $57,275 and the Sedan at $54,575. Sharing the high-revving 414-horsepower V8 and balanced chassis designed to be "faster than its engine," this March, BMW M GmbH will offer the most powerful, best performing series production M3s to the North American market. The all-new 2008 M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan-the fourth generation of compact sport vehicles which set the standard in minimizing any compromises between race-inspired performance and luxury and convenience-feature the first V8 in a series-production BMW M3. They also feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing engine response, steering, damping and stability (with an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the preferences) and a ...
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Spice Up Your Volvo XC90 with R-Design
2008-01-15 18:46:00
The choice for customers with a refined taste Jan. 11, 2008 -- Volvo Cars' R-design programme - a sporty factory-fitted option package - is now also available for the Volvo XC90. R-design is tailor made for customers who want a car with refined attributes. The package is also available for the Volvo C30, Volvo S40 and Volvo V50. 2008 Volvo XC90 R-Design "The possibility of tailoring one's car to suit personal tastes is becoming increasingly important to car buyers today. R-design has been developed for buyers who want a refined and sporty look for their cars," says Gerry Keaney, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Cars. The R-design package for the Volvo XC90 is an extension of the XC90 Sport version that was introduced in the end of 2006. New R-design features are the optional 20-inch wheels, the dual exhaust pipes, a unique skid-plate and the R-design badges in the grille, on the steering wheel and on the seats as well as rear-view mirror caps i...
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Pricing Announced for All-New BMW 1 Series Convertible at Its World Debut D
2008-01-15 18:45:00
Those whose definition of pure driving pleasure includes wind in the face and sunshine above now have even more to smile about, as pricing was announced today for the new BMW 1 Series Convertible during its world debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The vehicle, which goes on sale in time for summer, will start at $33,875 for the 128i model and $39,875 for the 135i model. The BMW 1 Series Coupe arrives in dealerships in March. The 1 Series Convertible and the 1 Series Coupe follow the tradition established by the iconic BMW 2002 sport sedan. The essence of such driving purity - a responsive six-cylinder engine positioned within a rear-drive chassis to provide balanced, sporty dynamics - is at the heart of this compact four-place coupe and convertible. The 128i Convertible will be powered by BMW's 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline six-cylinder engine generating 200 lb-ft of torque. Like its fixed-roof stablemate, the 128i Convertible will featu...
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Kia Motors America Introduces 2007 Kia Borrego SUV at 2008 NAIAS
2008-01-15 18:43:00
Newest Addition to Kia Line-up Makes its Debut at North America n International Auto Show DETROIT, Jan. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of record 2007 sales, Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced the world debut of the all-new 2009 Kia Borrego midsize SUV at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, further bolstering its product offerings in the United States. 2009 Kia Borrego Inspired by Kia's "less is more" design philosophy, Borrego was intended to convey a pure and functional look. It joins Kia's versatile and stylish line of cars and SUVs for those who enjoy active and energetic lifestyles. Set to go on sale this summer as a 2009 model, Kia Borrego houses Kia's first-ever V8 engine, making it the most powerful vehicle to date. "Kia is proud to deliver a stylish and amenity-filled SUV to consumers who are passionate about what they drive," said Len Hunt, president and CEO of KMA. "We strive to make quality vehicles at affordable prices and the Bo...

Mitsubishi Motors New 'Mitsubishi Concept-RA' and 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ra
2008-01-15 18:42:00
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. debut the MITSUBISHI Concept -RA and the Lancer Ralliart to the world at the 2008 edition of the North American International Auto Show. Building on Mitsubishi's global history of exciting two door sports coupes, the MITSUBISHI Concept-RA takes the sports coupe design theme in a new direction and brings the ROAD ALIVE. Mitsubishi Concept-RA The exciting MITSUBISHI Concept-RA is an athletic pure coupe concept that allows a passion for dynamic performance driving to coexist with a heightened sensitivity for the environment thanks to high output clean diesel power. Also making its global debut, the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive compact sports sedan that will be in showrooms in the summer of 2008. Concept-RA The MITSUBISHI Concept-RA continues a long tradition of sporty coupe concepts dating back to the 1972 debut of the Galant GTO R73-X show car, which showcased high revv...
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Subaru Debuts New-Generation 2009 Subaru Forester Crossover SUV at 2008 NAI
2008-01-15 18:42:00
- All-New Design with Improved Comfort, Space and Utility- All-New Platform With Sport-Sedan Dynamics- Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) DETROIT, Jan. 13, 2008 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the all-new, third-generation 2009 Subaru Forester, a total re-design of the award-winning crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that has built a strong reputation as an icon of safety, dependability and versatility. 2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 XT The 2009 Subaru Forester, which arrives in Subaru dealerships this spring, builds upon that reputation while projecting a bolder, more SUV-like design and making a major leap in safety technology, comfort, refinement and driving dynamics. As with all Subaru models, the 2009 Subaru Forester comes equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. An all-new platform featuring a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.0 inches) and double-wishbone rear suspension improves crash-worthiness and at the same time provides crisper handling, a quiete...
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The New Volkswagen Passat CC Celebrates Its World Premiere in Detroit at 20
2008-01-15 18:41:00
Sportiness meets elegance Wolfsburg/Detroit, 13 January 2008 - Just a few days into the New Year Volkswagen is setting off its latest firework with today?s world-exclusive launch of the new four-door Passat CC at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). A car that is anything but mainstream. 2008 Volkswagen Passat CC The new Volkswagen embraces differences. It is a coupé, yet has four doors; it offers supreme comfort whilst at the same time oozing pure dynamism. Its sporty interior is uncompromising yet spacious. The completely redesigned bodywork captivates with its silhouette of fluid lines. The roof stretches powerfully in a flat radius from the windscreen to the rear. A characteristic element of the design is the sharp tornado line drawn below the lower edge of the windows. Another new development is the panoramic glass roof which offers an overhead view. The VW Passat, a proven success for more than three decades, forms the technical basis for the first four-door cou...
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Land Rover LRX Hybrid Concept Unveiled at 2008 NAIAS
2008-01-15 18:41:00
Land Rover unveiled a vision of its future today at the North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show and/or NAIAS) with the world debut of the LRX hybrid concept. The Land Rover LRX is a bold evolution of Land Rover design that indicates the brand's progressive shift into new areas of the market, while remaining true to its core values. Land Rover LRX Hybrid Concept As the company prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary during 2008, the three-door LRX, with its more compact size, lighter weight and sustainability-focused technologies, clearly addresses the needs of a changing world and offers the potential of 120 g/km CO2 emissions. Land Rover LRX is a cross-coupe and dramatically extends the scope of what Land Rover represents. The first all-new Land Rover revealed since Gerry McGovern became the company's design director, LRX is a natural extension of the Land Rover range, complementing the existing models and helping to define a new segment. "The LRX concept de...
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Audi R8 Sports Car Goes Diesel in Detroit at 2008 NAIAS
2008-01-15 18:39:00
udi's R8-based concept car delivers 500PS and 1,000 Nm thanks to V12 TDI power Jan 14, 2008 -- After ripping up the Le Mans racing rulebook with the diesel-powered R10 TDI, Audi is exploring the possibility of breaking yet another mould with a road-going R8-based TDI super-car. The R8 V12 TDI Concept makes its debut at this month?s North American International Auto Show in Detroit , replacing the production sports car?s mid-mounted petrol FSI V8 with a 12-cylinder TDI endowed with an incredible 1,000Nm of torque. 2008 Audi R8 Highlights:? Design study based on acclaimed R8 road car adopts 6.0-litre, 12-cylinder TDI engine first seen in Q7 V12 TDI? Debuted on Press Day at the North American International Auto Show on January 13? 6.0-litre bi-turbo TDI engine develops 500PS and 1,000Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 3,000rpm. 0-62mph in 4.2 seconds, top speed in excess of 186mph? Already complies with proposed EU6 emission limits expected to apply from 2014, thanks to highly efficient com...
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Chevrolet Malibu Named 2008 North American Car of the Year
2008-01-15 18:39:00
For the second consecutive year, a car from General Motors Corporation has taken top honors in the North American Car and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) awards, as announced today at the opening of the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). 2008 Chevrolet Malibu The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu was chosen by this year's media jury from a field of 15 cars and 13trucks. GM vehicles captured four of the final six candidate spots for the awards; last year the Saturn Aura and Chevrolet Silverado were winners. "This award is the result of our intensive efforts to put a renewed emphasis on design, execution and craftsmanship into our cars and trucks," said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman. "We're honored that both automotive journalists and consumers are recognizing our efforts. The fact we had four of the six finalist vehicles is more than we could have hoped for." The NACTOY awards are given annually by prominent automotive journalists who evaluate the vehicles on factors including value for...