Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC: R 320, ML 320, and GL 320 At The New York Auto Show
Filed under: Auto Show Pictures, Green Hybrids/Alternative Fuels, Mercedes-Benz, New York International Auto Show, SUVs
Tags: bluetec, German, gl 320, ml 320, r 320
Mercedes-Benz presented three new SUVs equipped with the world’s latest and cleanest diesel engine at the 2008 New York International Auto Show. The new R 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC, and GL 320 BlueTEC use the highly efficient AdBlue exhaust aftertreatment system that meets the most stringent 50-state emissions limits.
Whether it’s the newly restyled ML320 BlueTEC family SUV, the larger GL320 BlueTEC or the versatile R320 BlueTEC, the diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz sport utilities get 20-30 percent better fuel economy, surprisingly good performance and extremely low exhaust emissions. This latest generation of electronically injected CDI engines is changing consumers’ dated perceptions about diesel engines. The BlueTEC diesels have impressive cruising range up to 600 miles traveling at highway speeds, and these well-appointed SUVs can do all that without sacrificing performance. In addition, V8-like pulling power makes the BlueTEC diesels ideal for towing.
BlueTEC is a modular system that includes an oxidation catalytic converter and a maintenance-free particulate filter as well as new techniques for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions – the last type of exhaust gas that’s higher in diesel vehicles than gasoline engines. The BlueTEC diesels use an NOx storage catalytic converter in combination with an SCR catalytic converter and AdBlue injection to lower NOx emissions.
The AdBlue system injects an aqueous urea solution into the exhaust flow, which releases ammonia (NH3), reducing nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream SCR catalytic converter. Just the right amount of AdBlue for a given engine load and speed is injected to get the greatest reduction of nitrogen oxides. Its tank only needs to be refilled every 10,000 miles during routine maintenance intervals.
2009 Infiniti FX50 and FX35
Filed under: Auto Show Pictures, Crossovers, Infiniti, New York International Auto Show, SUVs
Tags: FX35, FX50, Japanese
At the 2008 New York International Auto Show, Infiniti showed the new features of the FX crossover SUV family. The all-new, second-generation FX is a radical expression of sport and utility – offering exceptional levels of power, refinement and driving exhilaration. Created as a fusion of luxury, performance and SUV utility, with head-turning styling and an advanced sporty platform, the new FX is a showcase of Infiniti’s design and technology leadership.
Along with an aerodynamic, rigid yet lightweight body structure and sporty FM platform, the new FX features a extensive list of available equipment and technology designed to create an exhilarating and rewarding driving experience, including a choice of a new 390-horsepower 5.0-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event & Lift) or 303-horsepower 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6. Each engine is paired with a standard 7-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and available solid magnesium paddle shifters. The new FX is also offered with available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension and large 4-wheel disc brakes, along with available Continuous Damping Control (CDC)®, Rear Active Steer, Intelligent Brake Assist and 21-inch super lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels designed by Enkei.
Inside, the new FX interior provides a warm, modern, inviting environment highlighted by a driver-oriented cockpit with intuitive controls, available sport seating and advanced audio, navigation and technology ranging from an 11-speaker Bose®-developed audio system to Infiniti Intelligent Key, available Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) and available Around View Monitor system.
The new FX offers two industry-first safety technologies: Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), which provides forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking; Distance Control Assist (DCA), which reduces the burden of driving in heavy traffic by intuitively helping to release the throttle and apply the brakes to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Also available is a Lane Departure Warning/Lane Departure Prevention system, which helps keep the vehicle in its travel lane.
The all-new FX will be available in three models: FX50 AWD with 5.0-liter V8, FX35 AWD with 3.5-liter V6 and FX35 RWD with 3.5-liter V6. The new 2009 FX goes on sale at Infiniti dealers in the United States and Canada beginning in June 2008.
2009 Subaru Forester Video
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Videos, SUVs, Subaru
Tags: Detroit, forester, Japanese
The all-new, third-generation 2009 Forester was unveiled at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. As with all Subaru models, the 2009 Forester comes equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The new-generation 2009 Forester again blends positive SUV attributes including a high seating point and interior versatility with passenger car comfort, handling and fuel efficiency.
The 2009 Forester arrives in Subaru dealerships this spring.
Click here for more on the 2009 Subaru Forester.
2009 Kia Borrego Photos and Videos
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Pictures, Auto Show Videos, Kia, SUVs
Tags: Borrego, Detroit, Korean
The 2009 Kia Borrego was unveiled at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, MI. The Borrego features the new 4.6L V8 engine that produces more than 400 horsepower and is capable of towing 7,500 lbs though you can opt for the 3.8L V6 that will tow a respectable 5,000 lbs.
The Borrego is the Kia Mesa Concept (from the 2005 Detroit Show) coming to fruition. With standard seating for seven, DVD navigation, a clean diesel engine option coming soon, and every safety acronym known to man, the Kia Borrego shouldn’t disappoint. The mid-size SUV Borrego will be joining the Kia lineup in summer 2008 as a 2009 Model Year vehicle.
BMW X6 Video From The Detroit Auto Show
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Pictures, Auto Show Videos, BMW, Coupes, SUVs
Tags: Detroit, German, X6, xDrive
The newest member of the BMW X model line, the X6, debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, MI. The BMW X6 comes standard with xDrive all-wheel-drive technology with electronic control for variable distribution of drive power between the front and rear axles consistently adjusted to driving conditions at all times and in all situations. The X6 also has Dynamic Performance Control that ensures variable distribution of drive forces between the two rear wheels as a standard.
BMW’s new V8 with Twin Turbo Technology and direct injection is also making its debut in the X6. The 4.4L V8 is the most powerful engine ever featured in a BMW X Model, producing a maximum output of 400 horsepower. The other engine option is the 3.0L straight-six with a maximum output of 300 horsepower.
The X6 can easily be personalized. There are 10 exterior paint choices, five equipment variants, two interior colors, and five trim options.
Click here for more on the BMW X6.
Ford Explorer America Concept Video
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Videos, Concept Cars, Ford, SUVs
Tags: American, Detroit, explorer
Watch the video of the Ford Explorer America Concept from the recent 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, MI. The Explorer America Concept delivers a 20-30% fuel-economy improvement, depending on engine selection while still providing room for six and their gear, along with moderate towing and off-road capabilities.
Click here for more on the Ford Explorer America Concept.
The Ford Explorer America concept also features the Ford EcoBoost technology. EcoBoost provides customers with improved fuel efficiency, lower CO2 emissions, and outstanding performance through the use of specially engineered fuel injectors designed to deliver highly pressurized gasoline directly into each engine cylinder.
Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK BLUETEC Video
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Videos, Concept Cars, Mercedes-Benz, SUVs
Tags: Detroit, freeside, German, GLK, townside
Watch our live auto show video coverage from the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, MI, where Mercedes-Benz presented their compact SUV study with the Vision GLK FREESIDE and TOWNSIDE with the help of Sex In The City star Kim Cattrell. The Vision GLK FREESIDE is an all-rounder that showcases the capabilities of today’s SUV vehicles both on and off the road, while the TOWNSIDE version is designed to make its mark with dynamic performance on the tarmac.
Click here to see more on the Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK FREESIDE and TOWNSIDE.
Land Rover LRX Concept Video
Filed under: 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Auto Show Pictures, Auto Show Videos, Green Hybrids/Alternative Fuels, Land Rover, SUVs
Tags: Detroit, LRX
The LRX is conceived as a highly fuel-efficient, US Federal-specification, 2.0-litre, turbodiesel hybrid, capable of running on bio-diesel. In combination with other Land Rover technologies, this powertrain could reduce fuel consumption by as much as 30% compared with other 4×4s of comparable size, and reduce emissions to approximately 120 g/km.
Watch our video of the Land Rover LRX Concept from the 2008 North American International Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, MI and let us know what you think of this new design.
Click here for more on the Land Rover LRX Concept.
