4007 extends Peugeot’s desirability off-road

The 4007 extends Peugeot’s product portfolio and range appeal, with this new SUV, combining the best from these two accomplished automotive Companies. The Peugeot SUV features an innovative electronically controlled 4-wheel drive system, a powerful, latest-generation HDi DPFS diesel engine, combined with a versatile and dynamic package, with high levels of ride comfort, both on and off road.

4007 is generously equipped, with a high level of standard specification, and the distinctive exterior styling is unmistakably Peugeot, all of which combine to provide customers with a vehicle of huge appeal and versatile performance, with strong attributes and a product embracing all its environmental responsibilities.

4007: unmistakably Peugeot

The new SUV extends Peugeot’s existing car:

4: identifies its positioning to Peugeot’s upper range into new territory, and because the 4007 is medium sector, with the 4 series. a new platform approach for the Marque, like the1007, carries the special ‘00’ identity.

00: Making its first appearance on the 1007, the double zero clearly designates a different and original car over and above the classic car range.

7: and pinpoints its generation in the current series.

Style

Designed by the Peugeot Style Centre in Velizy, 4007 undeniably displays its affinity to the Marque through its elegant, feline style.

The front aspect emphasises the car’s style, robustness and sporting credentials and is equipped with a wide, open front grille in keeping with Peugeot’s current styling designs.

This dynamic appearance is strengthened by the finish of the lower front panel, which incorporates fog lamps and air intakes embellished with chrome surrounds. The confident design reflects the elegance and refinement that characterises the Peugeot style.

Almond-shaped smooth-glass headlamps are positioned over the front wings, forming the link between the wraparound front panel, the wings and the ribbed bonnet which enhances the luxurious and robust appearance of 4007. A large Peugeot badge is set at the front of the centre ribbed design located at the top leading edge of the bonnet.

The curved wings contribute to the strong presence of the vehicle. Its wide wheel arches, large alloy wheels and elevated ground clearance provide clear evidence of the dynamique potential of the 4007 regardless of where it is to be driven.

The elegant profile of the 4007 also reinforces its sporty appearance, thanks in particular to an aerodynamic roof line. Chrome finish to the window frames and sill mouldings are tasteful highlights that provide genuine attractive qualities.

The style at the rear is accentuated by translucent ruby lights with a curved profile, and located under the rear screen they frame a brushed aluminium trim with the Peugeot brand clearly displayed above the chrome Lion logo.

While the lower tailgate extends down to the body sill to preserve the robust structure and elegant appearance of 4007, the design incorporates an upper opening hatch with a glazed rear screen and provides convenient access to the boot area.

The interior design also enhances the sporty and luxury feel of the 4007. The black fascia panel, with its special soft texture, has a clear and attractive style. Instrumentation has deep contoured dials with a sports layout with information and warning details displayed between the tachometer and speedometer dials.

The interior is trimmed throughout with a strong Peugeot identity. An aluminium coloured finish is used to highlight air vent surrounds, grab handles and other key controls. The seats are manufactured from a high-quality three-part fabric, adding a further sporty touch. This also applies to the seats in the versions trimmed in high quality leather that also features attractive visible stitching.

4007 dimensions

With a length of 4.64m and a width of 1.80m, Peugeot’s SUV stands out by its height (1.67m) and above all by its ground clearance (174mm), a sign of its ability and capability to venture off road.

Equipped with 5 doors, the 4007 has seating for up to seven people, the rear two seats of which fold flat into the rear boot floor space. Designed with versatility in mind, its has a highly modular load area to permit a boot volume of up to 510 dm3 under the parcel shelf (VDA standard) in the 5-seat configuration, which can be extended to 1686 dm3 in the two-seat configuration.

In addition, due to its split tailgate configuration, the flat loading sill height is only 600mm from the ground.

4007 - A benchmark structure

The body structure has been developed with the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and evolves their wealth of experience for safety and all-terrain capability in building 4x4 SUVs of great reputation.

Much work was carried out to achieve a structure that is both extremely rigid for rigorous vehicle handling yet deformable in key areas to absorb energy to protect occupants in the event of an impact. The side members have an octagonal cross-section which helps to control the dissipation of energy. As a result, in the event of frontal impacts at low speed, energy is absorbed by the front section of the side member and not transmitted rearward, a by-product of which minimises insurance repair costs.

The front side members located at the back of the centre of the bulkhead panel and lower structure by three ‘legs’. These legs disperse the energy generated across each structure. Reinforcement bars located in the doors also protect occupants in the event of a side impact, as does impact absorbing padding inserted into the door panels.

Being a 4x4 vehicle and therefore being taller than traditional cars, the structure has been designed to ensure ‘crash compatibility’ in the event of collision, providing effective protection to occupants of all affected vehicles.

The power train, mounted in the transverse position, is positioned within the chassis which is reinforced by a central cross member under the engine. Hydraulic mountings, combined with a set of reaction link rods, reduce the

of engine vibration.

The roof is constructed of aluminium to lighten the transmission upper vehicle weight by 5 kg and thereby reduces the centre of gravity by around 4mm.

The full CAN electronic architecture is similar to that found on current Peugeot vehicles.

Finally, to preserve the ground clearance and at the same time give the car an adequate range, the fuel tank, with a total capacity of 60 litres, is cleverly divided into two, located on either side of the rear transmission and connected by a transfer pump system.

Wheels and suspension

4007 benefits from the latest technologies by featuring large alloy wheels and tyres capable of high levels of on-road refinement combined with an off-road grip capability which extends the versatility for leisure use, characterised by modern-day SUVs.

The 4007 features independent suspension on all four wheels, with McPherson type struts at the front, with a 22mm anti-roll bar and a multi-arm design at the rear, with a 20mm anti-roll bar.

A lot of attention has been paid with the tyre manufacturers to develop an 18" tyre (225/55 R18) suitable for both on-road and modest off-road driving. A 16" tyre (215/70 R16) has also been developed for more extreme leisure pursuits where the vehicles driving abilities in under poor conditions are more important.

Peugeot engineers have specified double piston calipers with front ventilated discs to maximise braking efficiency. The front brakes have a diameter of 294mm x 24mm and at the rear, solid discs with a diameter of 302mm.

4007 features pump-assisted hydraulic steering modulated according to engine speed. Its performance has been fine-tuned in conjunction with tyre development to give the assured feeling of control characterised in other Peugeot vehicles. Qualities of linearity, accuracy and self-centring ensure fluid handling and an excellent level of driveability in all situations.

Body rigidity has benefited from Peugeot’s chassis and dynamic handling expertise to give the 4007 the driveability similar to a modern hatchback, while maintaining a level of comfort in keeping with the car's versatile capabilities> Spring stiffness and damping characteristics have been tuned specifically to the vehicle and its 2.2-litre power unit.

Electronically controlled 4-wheel drive

The 4007 is equipped with an innovative ‘on demand’ 4-wheel drive system. An electronic system controls a viscous clutch located ahead of the rear axle to distribute torque between the front and rear axles to thereby optimising engine and transmission performance. This technology is developed by the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, a recognised specialist in 4-wheel drive transmissions.

The transmission features a transfer box located on the gearbox output and directs torque to the rear axle via a longitudinal propshaft. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates in real time parameters such as the vehicle speed, steering wheel angle, the difference in speed of rotation of the front and rear wheels and the level of acceleration, in order to electronically control the viscous clutch assembly.

4-wheel drive on demand

The driver can select three driving modes by selecting the mode on a central knob located between the two front seats:

2-wheel drive mode (2WD)

This mode corresponds to driving on tarmac when the driver does not expect any loss of traction (a dry road). The vehicle operates most efficiently in front-wheel drive (2WD), thereby reducing fuel consumption.

Automatic 4-wheel drive mode (4WD)

This is the vehicle’s normal operating mode, with torque distribution between the front and rear axles controlled by the ECU. This provides the assurance of optimal road holding regardless of surface conditions. The table below provides a summary of torque distribution between the two axles according to different driving conditions.

Torque distribution to front and rear axles (Automatic 4WD mode)

4-wheel drive lock mode (4WD)

Used under conditions of reduced traction, four-wheel drive becomes permanent with a higher distribution of torque to the rear wheels compared to the 4WD mode. This is the case in particular at low speed, where 50% of the additional torque will be distributed to the rear wheels compared to the automatic 4WD mode.

Engines

4007 is launched with a latest-generation HDi Diesel engine derived from a co-operation between the PSA Peugeot Citroën and the Ford Motor Company.

With a capacity of 2.2-litres, the engine develops a maximum power of 115 kW at 4000 rpm, or around 156bhp CEE. This is a single-turbo version of the 2.2-litre HDi 125 kW engine, but with variable geometry, and was recently introduced in the 407 and 607 ranges.

To ensure a high level of driveability and exploit to the full the maximum torque of 380 Nm available from low engine speeds (2000 rpm), a 6-speed manual gearbox manufactured by ‘Aisin‘ is coupled with the engine.

This power unit is characterised by a high level of verve and dynamic performance which is approaching that of modern Peugeot hatchbacks in the upper middle segment. Handling characteristics set the 4007 apart from its direct competitors, namely other compact SUVs.

ENGINE

• 2.2-litre HDi 115 kW (~156 bhp)
• Type 4 cylinders – 6-speed manual gearbox
• Position Transverse
• Capacity (cm3) 2179
• Maximum power (kW) 115 à 4000 rpm
• Maximum torque (Nm) 380 à 2000 rpm

PERFORMANCE - (1) driver only (2) half load

• Kerb weight with 7 seats (kg) 1750
• Maximum speed (km/h) (2) 200
• Standing start 0 to 400 m (s) (1) / (2) 17.3 / 18.0
• Standing start 0 to 1000 m (s) (1) / (2) 31.8 / 33.0
• Standing start 0 to 100 km/h (s) (1) / (2) 9.9 / 11.0
• Acceleration 30 to 60 km/h in 3rd (s) (1) / (2) 3.8 / 4.5
• Acceleration 80 to 120 km/h in 5th (s) (1) / (2) 9.3 / 11.0
• Acceleration 80 to 120 km/h in 6th (s) (1) / (2) 12.2 / 14.5

FUEL CONSUMPTION - (1) driver only (2) half load

• Urban drive cycle (l/100km) 9.5 9.6
• Extra urban drive cycle (l/100km) 5.9 6.0
• Combined drive cycle (l/100km) 7.2 7.3
• CO2 on combined drive cycle (g/km) 191 194

The engine is equipped with the latest-generation Diesel Particulate Filter System (DPFS). Due to its electronic management and the use of an additive to reduce the ‘particle’ combustion temperature, as well as the ‘octosquare’ filter element shape, filter’s service interval has been extended to 18,000 km. This reinforces Peugeot’s environmental credentials as one of the leading manufacturers in the clean technology stakes and most specifically where the elimination of diesel particle emissions is important.

Safety

In addition to the four-wheel drive and strong body structure, 4007 benefits from the latest technologies to protect its occupants in the event of impact and avoid driving hazards.

ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) is a standardfit feature on the 4007. This system enhances the vehicle’s stability by controlling the braking and engine power applied to individual wheels. The electronic system helps to keep the vehicle on the trajectory required by the driver, by controlling oversteer and correcting understeer during vigorous use of the steering wheel or under precarious road conditions.

It should be emphasised that compared to a classic hatchback, the 4WD transmission, coupled with the ESP system, also controls torque transmitted to the rear wheels, thereby increasing the efficiency of the stability control system. In addition, as well as ABS, the vehicle incorporates a traction control system which monitors traction and improves engine performance and vehicle behaviour during acceleration in curves or on a gradient.

In terms of passive safety, the 4007 is equipped with six airbags: two front airbags, two side airbags and two curtain airbags.

The adaptive front airbags inflate to two levels according to the severity of the impact. The passenger air bag can be switched off by means of the ignition key switch located in the glove box to allow for the installation of a rear-facing child seat. An indicator on the fascia panel reminds occupants if the airbag has been switched off.

The side airbags are housed in the back of the front seats. In the event of a side impact they protect the chest and upper part of the body. The curtain airbags also protect the heads of the passengers in rows one and two in the event of side impact.

For child safety, the 4007 offers Isofix mounting points in all three row-two seats. To alert the driver that a seat belt has been unfastened while driving, an audible signal is emitted together with a message on the instrument panel.

The enlarged field of vision combined with the raised driving position, a characteristic of SUVs, means the driver will feel safer when driving in traffic. Passengers also benefit from this raised position and from the panoramic view by the large glazed surface area of the 4007.

Modularity and versatility

The 4007 can accommodate up to seven people, thanks to a third row of seats which retracts into the floor of the boot. These two cleverly designed additional seats can be manipulated easily by means of three straps: one for unlocking, one for deployment and one for folding. Occasional passengers occupying the retractable bench seat benefit from head restraints and seat belts with inertia reels just like the other occupants.

The row-two seats split 40/60 and can slide over a distance of 80mm. Additional to these functions is the possibility of folding the entire bench seat in a concertina fashion by means of an automatic device. Two switches located on the right-hand and left-hand sides of the boot allow electrical unlocking of the bench seat, which then folds double by the action of springs. It is also possible to fold one section of the bench seat manually by means of two knobs located on ether side of the seats.

• This allows access to the two retractable seats and can free up additional load volume.
• Thanks to these modular configurations, the boot offers exceptional load volumes.
• With row-two fully retracted, the load volume up to the roof is 1686 dm3 (VDA standard).

In a more conventional configuration, with the second row in place, the volume under the parcel shelf is 463 dm3. This can be increased to 510 dm3 with the bench seat as far forward as possible, due to its slide system. With seven people in the car, the boot volume to the level of the row-three seat backs is still 184 dm3.

The boot, easily accessible because of the split opening tailgate, is easy to load. The lower part of the tailgate can take a load of 200 kg. Due to the flat floor and the absence of a load sill, heavy objects laid on the lower tailgate are easy to slide inside the boot.

A removable and adjustable flexible roller-blind can be used to conceal the boot’s contents. Highly modular and cleverly designed, the interior of the 4007 is therefore ideal for versatile use.

Clever numerous storage spaces

Maximising the interior space of 4007 is demonstrated by the many storage spaces available. Two glove boxes are available in the upper and lower part of the fascia panel. The lower glove box can be locked with the key, while the upper one is refrigerated.

There is a small closed storage space at the top of the centre console, while a swivel storage unit in the roof can hold a pair of glasses. Behind the courtesy light, a recess can accommodate a car park ticket or toll ticket and cup holders are accessible on the driver’s side and between the front seats. The door panels house a large storage area in the lower section able to hold a halflitre bottle.

The central front armrest, adjustable over a length of 65mm, opens in two parts. The lower part, which has a 12 volt connector, can contain up to 10 CDs. The upper part lets occupants keep small objects such as mobile phones within arm’s reach and the rear central armrest also incorporates two cup holders.

In car comfort

Particular attention has been paid to acoustic comfort, particularly in terms of engine noise insulation, ensuring a high level of comfort for this vehicle range and engine type.

From the point of view of temperature, passengers in the 4007 benefit from automatic air conditioning equipped with a pollen and dust filter, which guarantees a regulated interior temperature between 18° and 32 °C.

Multimedia equipment

With a view to comfort and convenience, the latest-generation of audio and telematic equipment is available. According to market versions, 4007 is specified with a single-CD / radio / MP3 player, or a radio / MP3 player with 6-disc CD Autochanger. In all cases, 6 speakers with a total power of 140W to provide clear sound entertainment.

Available as an option in some markets, it is possible to choose a high-performance ‘Rockford Fosgate’ Hi-Fi system with a maximum output of 650W. For perfect reproduction of high fidelity sound, eight speakers are distributed in the passenger compartment accompanied by a bass cabinet in the boot. This unit incorporates absorbent materials designed to reduce vibration and any audible interference liable to diminish sound quality.

A colour satellite navigation system with 7" touch screen is also available as an option. The integral 30GB hard disk contains cartography for Europe (NAVTEQ), leaving 10GB free to store around 2500 tracks in MP3 or WMA formats.

Further equipment, like Bluetooth hands-free kit, a DVD player incorporated in the position of the courtesy light with a retractable 9" screen, or a sunroof can supplement the 4007s standard specification.

Available colours

A total of eight exterior colours are available for the 4007 range; all or some of them will be available according to specific markets.

Solid colour:

• Antarctic White

Perly colours:

• Pearl Black

• Pilbara Grey

• Istria Blue

Metallic colours:

• Artic Silver

• Baïkal Blue

• Barkhane Bronze

• Garrigue Green

Chevrolet Captiva LTZ 2011

Chevrolet Captiva LTZ 2011 Wallpaper

New York 2010: Mitsubishi hopes 2011 Outlander Sport

Let's just go on ahead and make that much needed volume leader. The great economic collapse of 2009 smashed Mitsubishi in the teeth with a much larger brick than most other manufacturers. Thinks have slightly improved, but their February sales were still down 10 percent, and from an already frighteningly low level. Obviously, something must be done.

Meet the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, or as they're calling it in alphanumeric-loving Europe, the ASX. We've covered this particular small crossover pretty extensively already, so here's the U.S. spec deal. It's 15 inches shorter than the Outlander GT. Like its big brother, it gets magnesium paddle shifters. However, they are connected to a CVT instead of Mitsu's sweet dual-clutch gearbox. Now, no one has driven the Outlander Sport yet, and CVTs have gotten massively better in the last few years, so don't bunch your panties up quite yet.

The real upshot of that CVT is the Outlander Sport's 31 mpg highway figure, a right respectable number for a small crossover. In fact, that means the Outlander Sport is competitive with a small CUV we like a whole bunch, the new Hyundai Tucson. Besides the CVT, Mitsu has installed weight-saving plastic front fenders, electric power steering and has sculpted the Outlander Sport down to a admirably slippery 0.33 Cd. The Outlander Sport can also be shifted from front-wheel drive to all-wheel drive and yes, you will be able to order yours in this particularly vibrant shade of show car blue.

New York 2010: Kia's 2011 Sportage

The original Kia Sportage was one of the vehicles that led the Korean automaker's initial charge into the American market. Those early SUVs (they were body-on-frame back then) were inexpensive and honest, but that's about the best thing you could say about them. After a near brush with extinction, Kia is a very different kind of automaker today. Like the rest of the company's recent introductions, the Sportage features crisp, aggressive styling that won't leave you embarrassed to be seen in one.

The new Sportage actually had its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show early this month, but the New York Auto Show is considered the crossover's U.S. coming out party, even though it actually showed up at the Atlanta show just recently. Like sister brand Hyundai's new Tucson, the American-spec model gets a new 176 horsepower variable valve timing 2.4-liter inline-four that beats the power and efficiency of the old 2.7-liter V6 with the buyer's choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions.

Later in the 2011 model year, the Sportage will finally get some real sport when it gets the new 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct injected inline four that's going into the Optima and Hyundai Sonata. A snazzy looking, 274 hp Sportage? What is this world coming to?

[Source: Kia]

New York 2010: 2011 Infiniti QX56 priced identical to 2010 model at $56,700

After a quite entertaining piece of both gravity and physiology-defying strangeness from some smiley Cirque de Soleil performers (Infiniti is the official sponsor of Cirque de Soleil), Infiniti's product boss Carlos Tavares took the wraps off the all-new QX56. Based not on the Nissan Armada chassis (like the previous QX56) but instead on the heavy-duty Patrol, the new QX56 is a large, eight passenger "5-Star Luxury" body on frame SUV. That said, Infiniti managed to shed over 100 pound of flab compared to the 2010 QX56.

Speaking of the 2010 iteration, the previous QX56 is roundly regarded as one of the most awkward and ungainly looking luxo-barges, well, ever. In fact, if we were to put together a museum exhibit about the uncontrolled and obnoxious wild excesses of the just-ended SUV craze, the old QX would get top billing right next to a Hummer H2 and the Cadillac Escalade EXT. The new QX56 changes all that. It's world's better looking. We'd even go so far as to state that it has a certain Middle Eastern chic to it. Put it like this: if you had to cruise around your kingdom checking oil wells what would you rather be driving?

Infiniti is billing the QX56 as an eight-passenger private jet. Mr. Tavares must have said the word "luxury" a dozen times in his ten-minute presentation. Judging by our time with the all-new 2011 M37 and M56, we can declare then when they want to, Infiniti is fully capable of building a world-class interior. In the 2011 QX56, even the third-row reclines. Oh, they've also seen fit to stuff seven-inch color displays into the backs of the front head rests.

Hardware-wise, the QX56 is a body-on-frame full-size SUV sporting the same 5.6-liter variable-timing, direct-injection V8 as the M56, although in QX-trim it "only" makes 400 horsepower. However, while Infiniti had no official word on torque, they did explain the new QX56 can tow 8,500 pounds. And the big boy's seven-speed automatic allows it to get an almost, kinda respectable 20 mpg on the highway.

Most noteworthy is the inclusion of a Hydraulic Body Motion Control system that Infiniti claims reduces body roll by 40%. It uses an X-corner fluid distribution system (similar to how the Audi RS4 is suspended) that moves suspension fluid from the left front damper to the right rear, and vice-versa. Infiniti also claims the system is so effective that new QX56 has less body roll than the BMW 5 Series. Either way, the QX56 goes on this sale this summer, starting at the exact same price as the old one, $56,700.

New York 2010: 2011 Nissan Juke

Attention all you small crossover fans out there, now is the time to get excited. Nissan pulled back the curtain on the 2011 Juke and although we've seen it (at the Geneva Motor Show), we're still glad it's here. We're being implored to mention that some of us think the front end has a Pontiac Aztek quality about it. Others ("Hi, Mom!") feel different. Yeah, it's... not normal looking, but we've seen worse. At least it's not derivative. The rest of the Juke's styling, however, is much less controversial. Especially that rear three-quarter view.

Sadly, Nissan has neglected to hold a press conference for the Juke, so we're still not sure exactly how much power this mini-ute is making. For now, we're stuck with the "180+ horsepower and 170+ lb-ft of torque" from its 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder turbo, figures that are cited in the car's press release. There's a manual option for the front drivers, but CVT-only for the torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive versions. As soon as we can track down a Nissan employee with the details, we'll update the post. Until then, chew on this for more details. Also, while this here Juke is a right-hand driver, Nissan will be selling Jukes to us left-seat driving, high-rider loving Yanks come 2011.

Infiniti launches FX Limited Edition in Europe

Miffed at having missed out on the Infiniti FX Millionaire Edition? The special run was unveiled in Amsterdam a couple of months back at a price roughly twice that of a stock FX. Only 100 were made, and they weren't even available on this side of the pond. Now Infiniti's European division is following up with a second run called, straight-forward enough, the Limited Edition.

Like the Millionaire, the Limited can be ordered in either FX37 or FX50 guise, in scratch-resistant Obsidian Black or White Moonlight paint and features a host of special touches inside and out, from the dark graphite trim and 21-inch turbine-shaped rims to the Alcantara and carbon fiber trim on the interior. The special crossover also comes packed with the Connectiviti+ package, packing everything from sat-nav with Michelin Guide to the 11-speaker Bose sound system and 10-gig hard drive.

Fortunately prices are considerably more reasonable than its predecessor special, with the FX37S Limited Edition coming in at £55,855 (the equivalent of about $88k) and the FX50S Limited Edition at £62,035 (just shy of a hundred grand). Another 100 examples will be offered exclusively across Western Europe.

[Source: Infiniti]

Brabus GL 63 Biturbo picks up where Mercedes AMG leaves off

The performance boffins over at AMG keep themselves pretty busy, churning out high-output versions of just about every vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz line-up. Just about, but not quite. For example, if you want a GL-Class family-hauler with the division's stonking 6.3-liter V8 engine, you're SOL. But that's where the aftermarket comes in, and Brabus has arrived at the scene to save the day. And then some.

Not only has Brabus fitted the 6.3-liter V8 to the GL, but they've bolted a pair of turbochargers in the process. And while they were at it, they tweaked the seven-speed auto-box, fitted a big water-to-air intercooler and upgraded the intake, exhaust, brakes, suspension and rolling stock. The result? 650 horsepower and nearly as much torque. That oughta be good for 300 kilometers per hour (186 miles per hour) and hitting 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds along the way.

The Widestar body kit also widens the vehicle's stance, while the interior has been tricked out in custom leather, carbon fiber trim and LCD screens aplenty to keep the kids busy while you focus on maximum velocity. The super-truck will be unveiled in a couple of months at the Geneva Motor Show, but is available for order now from €368,000 ($518k).

[Source: Brabus]

Detroit 2010: Jeep Wrangler Islander

Few cars are as iconic as the Jeep Wrangler, a vehicle that can trace its heritage directly back to General Patton storming the Third Army up to Messina. Maybe a Porsche 911, maybe. Mini? Not really. Harley-Davidson is probably the closest, but they only have two wheels and aren't cars. The reason we're harping on this heritage angle is that after a twenty-year absence, Jeep's bringing back the Islander. Having grown up in Southern California and spent many a summer bumming around the beach, the Islander brings back many happy memories.

Obviously, the Jeep Wrangler Islander is beach themed. Also, water is wet. That said, you get a tropical "Tiki Bob" decal planted next to the coordinates 21° North and 157° West. That's Honolulu for you non-gazatteer types. Similar to most old YJ-based Islanders, this version is painted ocean-blue – Surf Blue Pearl Coat if you want to get specific. You can also get the Islander in white, silver or black, but why? You also get some interior touches, like seats with Surf Blue inserts and another Tiki Bob, this time embroidered into the back seat. All that beach themed fun can be yours for just $1,120 over sticker.

Jeep also showed us the Wrangler Mountain. Long story made real short, the Mountain is the Islander with different stickers, a painted grille and no heritage/nostalgic childhood memories. There's also an odd, flat-black hunk of plastic covering most of the hood that we're scratching our heads over. And... any questions? The cost of entry is $1,820. Oh, and the degrees on the Mountain's decal are 27° South, 88 66° West. We'll let you figure out where in the world that is. Have fun!

[Source: Jeep]

Detroit 2010: Lincoln MKX

The first major unveiling on day two of the 2010 Detroit Auto Show has come and gone, and we managed to sneak out of the room with a slew of live photos of the newly refreshed 2011 MKX. We already got the details that make the 2011 model a considerable improvement over its previous incarnation, and you can refresh your memory by clicking here or reading the press release after the break. Of special note is the new 3.7-liter V6 engine with 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque.

After touching, feeling and prodding the reborn MKX ourselves, we can confidently say that the quality of its materials and craftsmanship are top notch. We're also pretty intrigued by the new MyLincoln Touch – nee MyFord Touch – system, which combines an eight-inch touchscreen display in the center stack, two 4.2-inch LCD screens to the right and left of an analog speedometer (the exact same screens you'll find in the Fusion Hybrid) and two steering wheel-mounted five-way button controllers.

Detroit 2010: 2011 Lincoln MKX

The final piece of the Lincoln puzzle is here. Meet the new 2011 MKX. And yes, it does look quite a bit like the MKT. Depending on where you stand vis-a-vis the current MKX, the visual difference is either just a change, or a much needed improvement. Most of us are siding with the latter, though we fully realize that many folks simply don't like the MKT. Bottom line, it is what is.

The really story is not the exterior - it's the interior. Specifically, the MKX is the first vehicle getting Ford's all new Minority Report-inspired (no, really) MyFord Touch system. Although in this application the futuristic navigation, entertainment, climate and phone system is called MyLincoln Touch. Hey, what's in a name.

There's more inside to greet you than just MyLincoln Touch, as the MKX features vastly improved materials than not only the previous car, but all other Lincolns. We touched, we felt and please trust us - the MKX is an nice, upscale place to be. Also, they've banished buttons. Literally, there aren't any on the center stack. Instead you're treated to a series of touch sensitive sliders. George Takei would be stoked. The best part: all this inner goodness will soon be making its way across the Lincoln lineup.

Detroit 2010: 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2010 edition of the Hyundai Santa Fe isn't getting a full redesign, but a visual refresh does provide a few hints of the "fluidic sculpture" design language that debuted last month on the new Tucson and Sonata. The new hood features a pair of ridges extending back from the grille to the A-pillars as well as sculpted bars in the grille similar to the Sonata. The lower front fascia also gets some new forms that evoke a similar look to the Tucson.

However, the most important upgrades to the Santa Fe are under the hood and will no doubt help Hyundai maintain and advance its lead in the CAFE race. The old 2.7-liter and 3.3-liter V6 engines have been sent off to the scrap heap in favor a pair of engines that provide better performance and efficiency. The base setup is the same 175 horsepower 2.4-liter inline-four found in the new Tucson while the optional engine is a re-vamped 3.5-liter Lambda V6 now with 276 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are mated up exclusively with six-speed transmissions but only the four gets a manual option.

The four bumps the EPA numbers from the 18/24 mpg of the old 2.7-liter to 20/28 while the 3.5 improves on the 17/24 mpg values of the 3.3 to 20/26 mpg.

[Source: Hyundai]

Detroit 2010: Dodge Nitro Detonator

Dodge is rolling out three special edition Nitros here at the Detroit Auto Show named Heat, Detonator and Shock. For now, we're focusing on the Detonator, a massively loud yellow mid-size SUV. Aside from the eye-scorching paint, the Nitro Detonator gets standard 20-inch wheels, eight premium speakers hooked into a 368-watt amp plus a nine-inch subwoofer. Tinted glass, too.

The real news, however, is the engine. All three special edition Nitros get an aluminum 4.0-liter V6 that makes 23 percent more horsepower and 12 percent more torque. Specifically, the overhead cam V6 pumps out 260 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. That's some decent grunt, though a 4.0-liter-V6-powered Nissan Pathfinder makes 266 hp and 288 lb-ft of torque. However, the Nitro Detonator has gray stripes on the hood. Costs $25,995, too.

Detroit 2010: GMC Acadia Denali

Nearly lost in the hubbub at this morning's GMC-Buick press conference here at the Detroit Auto Show was GMC's new-for-2011 Acadia Denali. This is the first time that GMC has extended its upscale Denali trim to a crossover, but they haven't changed the formula just because the designation is no longer exclusive to body-on-frame. As ever, Denali equates to a modestly swankier interior (mahogany trim, perforated leather heated and cooled seats, additional ambient lighting), along with seemingly every other option, including sat-nav, Bluetooth, three-zone automatic HVAC, heads-up display and the obligatory gigantic sunroof.

On the outside, trainspotters will be able to spot the Denali by its monotone paint (Summer White as seen here, Quicksilver Metallic, Carbon Black, Red Jewel Tintcoat or White Diamond Tricoat), honeychrome grille (yeah, we said honeychrome), along with model-specific fascias and polished six-spoke 20-inch wheels.

[Source: GMC]

Mitsubishi releases updated JDM Outlander Roadest with unique look

Normally when an automaker updates a model, even if it's just a quick cosmetic change, the earlier version is treated like cheek meat – nobody wants it unless it's a real good deal, and the dealers just want them gone. Mitsubishi evidently thinks its home-market will be kinder to the compact crossover-ute-thing we know and love as the Outlander.

While a new Evo-esque beak has been grafted onto our Outlander for 2010, the softer, older version will continue to be offered to JDM buyers alongside a more cosmetically aggressive model. To avoid confusion, a country-specific rhinoplasty-enhanced model will be branded Outlander Roadest (note that the fascia and, grille and foglamps are all distinct from the U.S. model), while the older bodywork model will continue on as just plain "Outlander." Regardless of the looks, both iterations will get a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine as standard, good for 148PS (about 146 horsepower). The offal-likeness is in play with pricing as well, with the new-old Outlander selling for just ¥1,995,000 (about $22,000) while the Roadest will command ¥2,475,900 ($27,100).

[Source: Mitsubishi]

Dave Hervey's Cosmic Groove Lizard Art Car

Cosmic Groove Lizard Art Car - Guitar View

Cosmic Groove Lizard Art Car - Lizard View

Cosmic Groove Lizard Art Car - Closeup Hood View


I just got this great email today from Dave Harvey who created the Cosmic Groove Lizard Art Car as a result of reading Harrod Blanks book on Art Cars. He is also a musician, puppet maker and painter of guitars furniture and now a very beautiful and amazing art car. The copy below is his bio taken directly from his web site and be sure to go check out his web site for a peek at his other works of art.

Hello- David Hervey here. I am a painter and musician from Wilmington, NC. I grew up at the beach and have enjoyed art and music since a young age. I started my painting career shortly after graduating from ECU in the spring of 1997. My main media interests are in acrylic painting as well as mask and puppet making. Recently, I have started custom painting guitars to get a true one-of-a-kind instrument look. I draw my inspiration from God my creator, and from my awesome friends and family. I love to spark feelings of happiness in my paintings, though serious subject matter is often portrayed as well. Both realism and abstraction are captured in my works as I feel it helps to keep me balanced and never bored with my projects. I strive for my work to exhibit vibrancy, though not necessarily perfect realism. I enjoy impressionistic realism because it captures life’s beauty in an original, energetic way. People (specifically faces) are often expressed in my paintings and masks. I find humans to be very interesting subject matter. I consider harmony and balance to be very important in art and life in general. This makes life sweet and continually interesting… Until we meet again, may your journey be blessed… David Hervey Artist/Musician

Dave Hervey Puppet and Painting