Hot News: Range Rover LRX's 2010 Launch

The final production version of the Range Rover LRX could be unveiled on 17 June next year, according to Land Rover sources.

The premium compact SUV will finally be given the go-ahead for production by the end of the year, insiders have told Autocar. Production would probably begin in early 2011.

The June date is being considered because it will mark exactly 40 years since the original Range Rover was first revealed to the public.

The LRX would be positioned as the new, more environmentally friendly face of Range Rover as part of the brand’s 40th anniversary.

It’s expected that the styling of the final version of the LRX will differ from the concept. The car will also have the option of a hybrid drivetrain, which could be standard on more expensive versions.

The LRX is based on the same basic transverse engine platform as the Freelander and will be built at that model’s home, the Halewood factory on Merseyside.

The hybrid version of the LRX will probably use an electrically driven rear axle, which will work in combination with the engine-driven front wheels.

The LRX will arrive at a time when most industry analysts expect new car buyers in western Europe to embrace the concept of downsizing, with upmarket vehicles in the Golf class (B segment) becoming particularly popular.

As part of this, sales of the largest SUVs are expected to be hit hard in the EU, although they will remain popular in the Middle East and other developing markets.

Thanks to: Autocar

New Car: 2011 Hyundai ix35/Tucson

Hyundai is putting on a brave new face for Frankfurt. These are the first official images of its brand new crossover, the ix35, the first car to feature Hyundai's revised family face with its pronounced hexagonal grille.

Showcasing Hyundai's 'fluidic sculpture' design language, the ix35 is a feast of strong creases and bold shapes - a must if it wants to mix it with popular compact SUVs such as the Ford Kuga and VW Tiguan.

The sleek styling has another hidden benefit - enhanced aerodynamics. Combine this with an refined and efficient range of powertrains, and Hyundai claims the ix35 will lead the way when it comes to low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption comparable to a Focus-sized hatchback.
More information will be made available when the car debuts in Frankfurt next month. Expect the ix35 to reach UK showroom in Spring 2010. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Sneak Peek: 2010 Skoda Superb Estate

It’s the Superb, Skoda fans have been longing for. This is the first official teaser shot of the Superb estate and following on from last year’s innovative hatch/saloon model, Skoda says the estate is the logical continuation of the Czech firms flagship model.

Few of the cars exterior details can be confirmed from the silhouette style teaser shot, butlike the saloon, the Superb estate will offer class-leading levels of practicality and comfort plus the addition of a huge boot.

Equipped with the same engines as the rest of the Superb range, there will be three petrol and diesel units plus we can also expect a 3.6-litre V6 VRS model.

The Superb estate will be making its world debut on 15th September at the firms show stand in Frankfurt and should be on sale early next year. Prices for the estate are still to be confirmed but the new estate range should start from around £16,000. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express