Chrysler introduced two new SRT8 models at the 2011 New York Auto Show, but the one that jumped out at us the most was the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. Our apologies to the Chrysler 300 SRT8, but we just like the bigger and more rugged look a tad better. The new Jeep comes with performance-oriented styling, world-class ride and handling, benchmark braking, and race-inspired interior.
This monstrous machine is powered by a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 that delivers an estimated 465 HP and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Coincidentally, it’s the same engine used in the Chrysler 300 SRT8, but we can fit the kiddies and the dogs in the back.
"The all-new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the ultimate performance SUV, delivering a combination of Jeep capability and utility, world-class performance, luxury and refinement, and advanced innovative technology," said Mike Manley, President and CEO — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Jeep vehicles have long been known for their off-road capability. In addition to Jeep four-wheel-drive traction and utility, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 takes capability to a new level by giving driving enthusiasts extreme performance for the street and track."
Hit the jump to read more about the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8.
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Once upon a time, the Ford Taurus was one of the Blue Oval’s most popular models. But over the years, the line has been trumped by a lot of other makes, both from Ford and from competitors that have unfairly relegated the Taurus in the shadows.
Ford, of course, is looking to change that. In bringing back some luster to the name, the American automaker is getting ready to introduce the newest version of the Taurus SHO at the New York Auto Show. Coming with a refreshed facelift that speaks well of the car’s new looks, the 2013 Taurus SHO is primed to get back into the meat of the competition and return to its old prominence.
While it would’ve been better if the car actually had an engine upgrade - the engine remains the same, much to our dismay - we’re certainly not complaining about the facelift done. It looks a lot more up-to-the-times with the sporty and aggressive look, which for a mid-size sedan is a very important element. And even if the engine remains the same, it’s still powerful enough to deliver well over 300 horsepower.
Details on the Ford Taurus SHO after the jump.
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Gracing the Suzuki stand at the New York Auto Show is a concept car that should have us clamoring for a production version sooner rather than later.
Joining the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept in New York is the Kizashi Apex Concept, a turbocharged version of the Kizashi that Subaru built and designed to not only come with improved performance dynamics, but to also show the link between the company’s automotive division and its long-standing and highly competitive motorcycle division.
Dressed in a colorful racing livery that makes you feel that it’s itching for some pavement, the Kizashi Apex Concept is all about performance. While the stock engine of the model remains intact, the Japanese automaker added a plethora of add-ons - specifically a Garrett turbocharger - to make the car primed and ready for a good ol’ fashion throwdown.
If you won’t take our word for it, hear it straight from the horse’s mouth: "Our turbo-equipped concept leverages the already-exceptional Kizashi platform and infuses it with a substantial boost," said Steve Younan, director of automotive marketing and product planning for Suzuki’s US division.
"The Kizashi Apex Concept will further elevate our flagship sedan in the U.S. among enthusiasts who crave added power and performance."
Truer words have never been spoken.
Details on the Suzuki Kizashi Apex Turbo Concept after the jump.
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Just when there were doubts about the future of Mercedes’ A-Class, the German automaker comes out and releases what is arguably the hottest looking hatchback concept we’ve seen in a while.
This is the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-Class, and oh dear Lord, does it look mighty divine. We can’t get enough of the concept’s overall design, especially that sharp as a tack, starry, starry night-inspired grille. Of course, we don’t expect each and every element of the Concept A-Class to make it to the production version, but at the very least, we know the direction Mercedes is taking with their hatch-segment models.
Yeah, no more of those box-shaped, minivan-looking cars whose only redeeming value was that it had the brand’s tri-star logo on it. But the new Concept A-Class really is something else. it’s got edge, it’s got attitude, and it’s got class.
UPDATE 04/20/2011: Car and Driver had their way with Mercedes and ended up coaxing some wonderful news coming out of the New York Auto Show. The Mercedes Concept A-Class is indeed headed to the production line and it will also find its way over to the States. Sweet!
UPDATE 09/08/11: The Mercedes-Benz Concept A-Class is getting some serious technological juice courtesy of a range of new connectivity functions, including Twitter and Facebook integration, text-to-speech translation of email messages and status updates. The whole concept may still be year’s from being produced commercially, but it does give us an idea on what the future Mercedes infotainment system is going to look like. Check out the video to find out more about the Concept A-Class’ fancy new digs.
UPDATE 10/15/11:Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes in the building of a concept car, especially one that packs all the technology that comes with a concept like the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-Class? Well, you won’t need to wonder anymore because the German automaker has released a video detailing exactly how the whole deal goes down. Check it out by clicking the photo above.
Details on the Concept A-Class after the jump.
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Suzuki has big plans for its flagship model, the Kizashi. That much we already know. What we didn’t expect though was that the model would be branching out with different variants.
At the New York Auto Show, the Japanese automaker further cemented their intention of giving its customers new options for the sedan by unveiling a couple of concept cars tied up to its name.
One of these concepts is the Kizashi EcoCharge Concept, a hybrid vehicle Suzuki is preparing to compete against the likes of the Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight, among other hybrid cars out on the market these days.
While Suzuki hasn’t had any discussions on the production plans for the car, we’d be very surprised if this model doesn’t get greenlighted for production soon, especially when you consider that the market is ripe for other brands to enter and give its established rivals a run for their money.
Either way, its looking more and more likely that the hybrid wars will have to make room for another vehicle.
Details on the Suzuki Kizashi EcoCharge Concept after the jump.
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