Posts tagged Geneva Auto Show
Hyundai Intrados Concept Emphasizes Lightness and Efficiency
Mar 5th
Image by MotorAuthority (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1089007_hyundai-intrado-crossover-concept-2014-geneva-motor-show-live-photos)
Hyundai’s Intrado concept car was built to reveal the company’s capabilities and show visions of mobility as it prepared for future growth. Hyundai suggests that the Intrado envisions how cars can enlighten and enrich lives.
Image by MotorAuthority (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1089007_hyundai-intrado-crossover-concept-2014-geneva-motor-show-live-photos)
I can’t tell you what the previous statement really means, however I can say that Intrado is powered by a next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell powertrain that utilises a lithium ion battery that can be refueled in just a few minutes. With a range of more than 600 kilometres and emitting only water, Intrado does foreshadow what efficiency might look on future Hyundai models. In addition to increased range, Intrado promises more responsive and agile driving dynamics, thanks to the reduced weight and greater efficiency of its powertrain.
Image by MotorAuthority (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1089007_hyundai-intrado-crossover-concept-2014-geneva-motor-show-live-photos)
Intrados aerodynamic body-panels are backed up by a carbon fiber intensive frame built with an emphasis on lightness. This emphasis on lightweight strength will certainly be seen on future models, including new features like the super lightweight body panels created at Hyundai’s steel facility.
Refreshed 2015 Focus the Latest to Get Aston Martin-esque grille
Mar 5th
Image by Car and Driver. (http://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2015-ford-focus-photos-and-info-news)
It was only a matter of time before the Ford Focus got the Aston Martin-esque front end treatment. The sharp looking grill debuted on the new Fusion last year and has moved up along the ranks, most recently revealed on the 2015 Mustang.
Image by Car and Driver. (http://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2015-ford-focus-photos-and-info-news)
Aside from the noticeable changes upfront, the new Focus also gets re-shaped headlights more akin to those on the Focus ST. It also gets interior updates including version 2.0 of Ford’s Sync system, which promises to be more intuitive and pack more useable feature.
Image by Car and Driver. (http://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2015-ford-focus-photos-and-info-news)
Ford also claims that the new Focus will offer a more comfortable and quiet ride. Obviously suspension and chassis improvements will make this happen, but Ford was rather ambiguous when it comes to details. We’re sure we’ll learn more as the year progresses.
Image by Car and Driver. (http://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2015-ford-focus-photos-and-info-news)
We expect to see the 2015 Focus at Morrie’s Minnetonka Ford and Morrie’s Buffalo Ford in the second half of 2014.
Subaru Viziv 2 Hints at Future Subaru Crossovers
Mar 5th
Image by MotorAuthority. (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1090671_subaru-viziv-2-concept-unveiled-at-2014-geneva-motor-show-video)
Subaru first introduced us to the VIZIV concept last year in Geneva and it returned again this year in more production ready trim as the VIZIV 2. If you’re like me you’re wondering what VIZIV stands for —- Subaru says it stands for “Vision of Innovation.”
Image by MotorAuthority. (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1090671_subaru-viziv-2-concept-unveiled-at-2014-geneva-motor-show-video)
The concept represents what Subaru’s future hybrid crossover might look like. In typical Subaru tradition the VIZIV 2 a 1.6 liter turbocharged boxer four cylinder and in the spirit of efficiency it is coupled to a plug-in three motor hybrid system. Of course it wouldn’t be a Subaru (BRZ excluded) if it didn’t have symmetrical all wheel drive.
Image by MotorAuthority. (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1090671_subaru-viziv-2-concept-unveiled-at-2014-geneva-motor-show-video)
Since it last bowed it has sprouted two additional doors, certainly a nod to consumer demanded utility, and more production ready headlights. Front end styling aligns with that of the recently debuted 2015 Subaru Legacy.
Image by MotorAuthority. (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1090671_subaru-viziv-2-concept-unveiled-at-2014-geneva-motor-show-video)
The word on the auto show circuit is that the VIZIV 2 will replace the previous Tribeca crossover. It is unknown when or if this crossover concept will make it to production. If you like what you see and want to get updates, reach out to Morrie’s Brooklyn Park or Minnetonka Subaru.
Refreshed Nissan Juke Revealed at the Geneva Auto Show
Mar 5th
Image by Autoweek. (http://www.autoweek.com/article/20140304/CARNEWS/140309948)
When the Nissan Juke first debuted just over three years ago we were intrigued. Frankly, the car created a niche that we hadn’t seen before and we welcomed its arrival. Just this week in Geneva Nissan revealed a face lifted Juke.
The new Juke maintains the general looks and shape of its predecessor, yet adopts more recent Nissan design cues. The car adopts the new corporate Nissan grille as well as headlights inspired by those on the 370z. LEDs have also been integrated into the mirrors and rear taillights.
The Juke is a relatively small crossover and therefore doesn’t need a lot of engine to get moving. With the new Juke Nissan actually decreased the engine size, opting for a 1.2 liter DIG-T turbo engine currently found in Nissans overseas. Despite the size reduction, the turbo brings power to 115hp, essentially the equivalent of the outgoing model. While horsepower remains the same, the engine brings a healthy dose of torque not available in the outgoing naturally aspirated model. As before, the Juke will be available with a manual or automatic transmission that send power to both axles.
Look for the refreshed Juke at Morrie’s Brooklyn Park Nissan this summer.
Mazda2 Sneak Preview at the Geneva International Motor Show!
Mar 4th
Introducing the All-New Hazumi Concept!
The vehicle has been completely redesigned with and updated interior and exterior. Narrow taillights wrap around the rear of the vehicle while a new front grille gives this hot hatch added character.
The interior is not what you would expect. A mix of Mazda’s signature Soul Red and an almond hue make up most of the interior coloring, a clear change from the company’s signature dark interior, which we have seen on display for most unveilings.
Hazumi is the Japanese word for “bound” or to “spring up” which conveys the idea of a small but vigorous animal, bursting with energy. With a SKYACTIV-D 1.5 L engine and a six-speed transmission, this vehicle is definitely a match for any vigorous animal bursting with energy.
Stay tuned to our Facebook page and make sure to check our blog often for more information on when this concept will head into production! We look forward to seeing the Hazumi evolve into the Mazda2 hatch and can’t wait for its arrival on our show floor at Morrie’s Minnetonka Mazda and Morrie’s Chippewa Valley Mazda!
