2009 New York Auto Show - 2010 Mazda CX-7

2009 New York Auto ShowMazda's refreshed 2010 Mazda CX-7, which is making its U.S. debut at New York, features new styling and a new 2.5L engine -- the same block that serves duty in the Mazda3 and Mazda6. No doubt designed as a more economical alternative to the usual 244-horsepower turbocharged 2.3L engine that's still an option in the CX-7's engine bay, the slightly larger, normally-aspirated 2.5L four-banger will produce 161 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque. Though pricing and fuel economy figures are not yet available, we're willing to bet the offering will trade a little power for improved gas mileage and a lower MSRP.
Beyond the new engine option, Mazda has revised the CX-7's styling both inside and out. Most noticeable is the new five-point front grille that is quickly becoming an integral part of Mazda's current design language and is also visible in the redesigns of the Mazda3, MX-5, and RX-8. Inside, the gauges get a refresh with three-dimensional dials and a Multi Information Display. The passenger's seat receives power adjustment, while a three-position driver's seat memory and Bluetooth compatibility are also new. Mazda says that overall, the 2010 CX-7 is refined greatly over the current version and that improvements extend all the way to the build quality. The body rigidity has reportedly also been improved, with it lower noise, vibration, and harshness levels are readily apparent -- even wind noise has been reduced, according to the automaker

The Hyundai Nuvis Concept by Hyundai at the 2009 New York Show

The Hyundai Nuvis Concept is yet another hybrid-crossover dream machine designed to blend utility with small-car fuel-economy and sci-fi futuristic styling. Powered by a parallel hybrid system backed up by a 270-watt lithium-polymer battery, the Nuvis delivers an estimated 34 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, according to Hyundai.
The Nuvis employs Hyundai's Hybrid Blue Drive system, which operates on a principle similar to Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive setup. In this case, Hyundai's 228-hp Theta II 2.4L inline four-cylinder engine is mated to a 30 kW electric motor that can get the vehicle moving from a stop and provide extra power for accelerating and passing.Its six-speed automatic transmission has seen its fourth, fifth and sixth gears extended for better highway fuel-economy. Hyundai says its lithium-polymer battery pack, which is stored under the rear cargo floor, is more space-efficient and durable than nickel-metal hydride or lithium-ion battery packs found in other hybrids.
Blue Drive is a styling influence as well. To drive the point home, the color blue has turned up all over the vehicle. It's in the headlights, it's trimming the brake ducts in the lower front fascia, it's hiding in character lines behind the front wheels and it's lighting up the Hyundai logos at either end of the vehicle. Pull open the massive gullwing doors and you'll find plenty more where that came from. On the floors, you'll find blue accent lighting running from front to rear that looks like a river flowing beneath your feet and pulses to emulate moving water. That is, if you notice the floor. Most people likely won't be able to take their eyes of the alien-space-ship dash and center console.

79th international Geneva motor show - Chevrolet Volt the Ampera

Built on the same Voltec platform as the Chevrolet Volt, the Ampera is an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle that will travel up to 60 km (37 mi) on electricity from its battery pack before a gasoline engine kicks on to generate electricity to power the wheels. The battery pack will recharge from a standard 230-volt outlet and is expected to provide more than enough power to allow most European drivers to make their daily commute without the gasoline engine ever starting up. According to GM's research, 80% of German drivers travel less than 50 km per day.

79th international Geneva motor show - The Alfa Romeo Mito GTA

Powered by a turbocharged 1.8L gasoline engine producing 237 hp, the Alfa Romeo Mi.To GTA is aimed squarely at the Mini John Cooper Works. Find out more about the Alfa Romeo Mito GTA in the 2009 Geneva Motor Show coverage from the automotive experts at Motor Trend.

Ford Escape Hybrid - Review Ranks 1 out of 25 affordable compact SUVS

The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid ranks 1 out of 25 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 11 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Escape Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Though the Escape Hybrid was officially redesigned in 2008, upgrades for this year have changed its performance significantly. Auto reviewers say the 2009 changes are for the better and praise the hybrid SUV for its especially smooth ride and powertrain.
Touted by Ford as the most fuel-efficient SUV on the planet, the Escape Hybrid's claim to fame is its excellent 28 mpg combined fuel economy. It was recently named most environmentally friendly Truck of the Year at the inaugural Earth, Wind & Power Awards. The mission of the awards is to "recognize vehicles driven by a power source that help reduce global warming, are conducive to promoting a cleaner environment and support the mission to achieve energy independence through alternative sources."
This year, major upgrades for the Escape Hybrid, including a bigger engine and updated braking and steering systems, make it even more appealing. "The Escape is a hybrid SUV with solid moves at an affordable price for which no excuses need be made," says Car and Driver. Thanks to the hybrid's high gas mileage, auto reviewers tend to favor it over its gasoline-powered counterpart, the 2009 Ford Escape, which is reviewed separately.
The Escape Hybrid is available in three trims -- the base model and a new top-of-the-line Limited. A four-wheel drive system is optional