Vehicles: Page 154


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    Stylish, Flexible ’13 Buick Encore Blazes Strategic Trail

    Arriving at U.S. dealers now, the 5-passenger compact cross/utility vehicle kickstarts a sparsely populated segment consisting of the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mini Countryman and Nissan Juke.

    By James M. Amend • April 1, 2013
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    Future Wrangler’s Challenge: Fuel Efficiency

    The blocky SUV can’t lose its character, executives say, but it still has to incorporate aerodynamics and weight savings to improve fuel-economy numbers.

    By Aaron Foley • March 29, 2013
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    Mitsubishi Claims 3-Cyl. Mirage Most Fuel-Efficient Non-Hybrid in U.S.

    The Japanese auto maker says its new B-car will achieve 40 mpg combined with its 74-hp, 1.2L 3-cyl. engine mated to a CVT.

    March 28, 2013
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    Infiniti Predicts Best-In-Class Fuel Economy for New QX60 Hybrid

    The new hybrid CUV shares its powertrain with the Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid, also debuting in New York.

    March 27, 2013
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    Cadillac ATS: Judging for 2013 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors

    Editor's note: This story is part of the WardsAuto digital archive, which may include content that was first published in print, or in different web layouts.WardsAuto's Byron Pope shares his thoughts on the new ATS sedan, a nominee in the 2013 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors competition. (See complet co...

    March 27, 2013
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    Hyundai Elantra GT: Judging for 2013 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors

    Editor's note: This story is part of the WardsAuto digital archive, which may include content that was first published in print, or in different web layouts.WardsAuto's Christie Schweinsberg shares her thoughts on the new Elantra GT hatchback, a nominee in the 2013 Ward’s 10 Best Interiors compet...

    March 26, 2013
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    Researchers Seek Faster, Safer Li-ion Battery Charging

    The research focuses on eliminating dendrites, lithium deposits that grow on electrode surfaces and not only limit recharging speed but also can cause battery failure and possible fire.

    By Alan Harman • March 20, 2013
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    Non-Conformist Forester Defies Categorization

    Subaru’s new ’14 Forester is a unique entry in the midsize CUV category that provides above-average off-road capability and a high-end turbocharged model.

    By Byron Pope • March 19, 2013
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    Hyundai to Sell Upcoming ix35 Fuel-Cell Car in All 50 U.S. States

    Hydrogen-fuel-cell electric vehicles make more sense than other alternative technologies, such as plug-in hybrids, which have redundant systems, Hyundai’s U.S. CEO says.

    March 13, 2013
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    Nissan Pathfinder Still With Plenty of Utility

    The old truck-based, rough-and-ready Pathfinder is gone, replaced by the new car-based ’13 model that still can haul plenty of kids and stuff for family adventures.

    March 11, 2013
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    Interiors Tell Driver’s Story, Chrysler Designer Says

    The auto maker is focusing attention toward brand-specific cabin treatments. “We’re not selling dishwashers on wheels,” a top designer says.

    By Aaron Foley • March 11, 2013
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    German Researchers Create Safe, Lightweight City EV

    Unlike the 4-passenger BMW i3, the Visio.M prototype is a 2-seater. Its monocoque carbon- fiber body and lightweight powertrain add up to a curb weight about 600 lbs. less than the i3.

    By Herb Shuldiner 1 • March 8, 2013
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    Looks Aren’t Everything for RLX

    Acura's new flagship sedan might be lacking in exterior styling, but the car is loaded with compelling technologies such as standard 4-wheel steering, a well-crafted interior and the brand's first direct-injection engine.

    March 7, 2013
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    For Chrysler, Diesel Engine Turnaround Shorter Than Most

    Engineers worked days, nights and weekends to modify the oil-burner for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which launches roughly two years after powertrain development began.

    By Aaron Foley • March 7, 2013
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    February U.S. Light-Vehicle Days’ Supply Dips

    Unit stock for Chrysler, Ford and General Motors combined grew by less than 1%, with an across-the-board decline in inventory for all brands.

    By Al Binder • March 5, 2013
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    Italdesign Surprises With 2-Seater Lambo SUV Coupe, Roadster

    The bright red concept measures 177 ins. long and with a short wheelbase in line with an Audi Q3. The exterior features a wedge-inspired silhouette, while the interior stands out for its overall simplicity.

    By Giancarlo Perini • March 5, 2013
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    Geneva Hybrid Supercars to Compete on Power

    Insiders say the British model can go from 0-124 mph in 7 seconds, while the Italian car will take three-tenths of a second longer.

    By Giancarlo Perini • March 4, 2013
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    Best Mazda CXs Launch in Texas

    Now on sale, the ’14 Mazda CX-5 is available with a new 184-hp 2.5L Skyactiv gasoline direct-injection 4-cyl. that moves the CUV much more capably than the 2.0L I-4 that remains in the lineup.

    March 4, 2013
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    Wrangler Diesel Likely After ’15 Refresh

    Jeep CEO Mike Manley is betting on the success of a diesel-powered Jeep Grand Cherokee to make the case for an oil-burner in the brand’s iconic model.

    By Aaron Foley • Feb. 28, 2013
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    Mini GP Delivers Priceless Performance

    ‘Fastest Mini Ever’ isn’t that fast, but performance enhancements and double-dose of go-kart handling are unrivaled fun.

    Feb. 25, 2013
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    Kia’s Forte Much Improved

    With a powerful new 2.0L GDI engine, whisper-quiet interior and lots of creature comforts, Kia’s new-generation compact sedan should leave some bruises on the competition.

    Feb. 20, 2013
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    Ram 1500 Gets Diesel Engine

    Production of the diesel pickup begins in third-quarter 2013 as the brand continues to diversify its lineup.

    By Aaron Foley • Feb. 14, 2013
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    No Plans to Back Down From Fuel-Cell Vehicles, DOE Says

    Auto makers remain captivated by the potential of zero-emissions FCEVs, which would help them meet their federal emissions requirements and rising fleet fuel-economy standards.

    By James M. Amend • Feb. 14, 2013
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    Michelin Investing in Fuel-Saving Tire Technology

    New airless Michelin Tweel commercial tires could be used on passenger vehicles in emerging markets.

    By Byron Pope • Feb. 13, 2013
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    Mazda High on Skyactiv Powertrain Potential

    President Takashi Yamanouchi predicts Skyactiv models will account for more than 30% of Mazda’s global sales in second-half fiscal 2013, followed by 50% in fiscal 2014 and 80% in fiscal 2015.

    By Roger Schreffler • Feb. 13, 2013