SUV

The World's Most Powerful Off-Roader - 515 kW and 1,320 Nm

By Mike Hanlon

20:13 February 19, 2009 PST

German auto Krafthaus Brabus regularly builds the world's fastest cars to showcase its tuning abilities, presenting these outrageous beasts at the major European auto shows each year. For the upcoming Geneva International Auto Show, it has produced the world's most powerful 4x4 based on the Mercedes G-Class. The five-door 4x4 is powered by a BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine (a reworked Mercedes S 600 V12 engine) which produces 690 bhp (515 kW) at 5,100 rpm and an astonishing peak torque of 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm, though it is electronically limited to 1100 Nm. Prices start from EUR 379,000 (USD 478,500) and head upward from there depending on just how personal and comprehensive the desired luxury fit-out. Read More

New Porsche Cayenne Turbo S debuts in Beijing

By Noel McKeegan

19:40 April 20, 2008 PDT

April 21, 2008 With an output of 550 hp (404 kW) and a top speed of 280kmh (174mph), the new Porsche Cayenne which premiered at Auto China 2008 in Beijing is the most powerful model in the company's SUV range to date. Capable of achieving zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, the twin-turbo, 4.8 liter V8 S model gains the edge over the standard Turbo model via a modified exhaust system and improvements in engine control that have also resulted in an increase in maximum torque by 50 Nm to 750 Nm (available between 2,250 and 4,500 rpm). Marked by 21 inch SportPlus alloy wheels, a four-pipe sports exhaust system and an exclusive “lava gray metallic” paint option, plus a host of standard interior goodies from memory seating to a touch-screen operated multimedia system, the Turbo S will be introduced from August 2008 at an expected basis price of EUR 111,400. Read More

Young graduates ace their first work assignment: the Hummer HX concept

By Loz Blain

21:06 January 14, 2008 PST

January 15, 2008 Talk about hitting the ground running - three young design students, fresh out of college, fronted up for their first day of work at GM and instead of a week of fetching coffees, their first assignment was to produce concepts for a new, compact, youth-oriented off-road Hummer. The three students' input drove the design of the new Hummer HX concept, which has sparked a lot of excitement among Hummer fans. Open-topped, with a configurable rear roof section, removable body panels and an E85-capable engine, the HX concept will debut shortly at the 2008 North American International Auto Show – and it's rumored to be the base for the upcoming H4 production SUV. Read More

Nissan adds new tent to outdoor accessory range

By Darren Quick

16:20 November 22, 2007 PST

November 23, 2007 Nissan has released a second dedicated tent designed to fit onto the rear of any Pathfinder, Murano, new X-TRAIL or QASHQAI. The tent attaches onto the rear of the vehicle with the use of adjustable straps and an elasticated sleeve, which fits over the complete rear-end of the vehicle and provides enough room for the tailgate to be opened up into the tent living area. Inside, the living area measures 3 meters x 3 meters to accommodate up to four adults, six if you include the back of the vehicle, and with over 2 meters in height at the peak of the dome there is plenty of standing room. Read More

MITSUBISHI Concept-cX 'Compact crossover' for Frankfurt debut

By Mike Hanlon

20:16 July 30, 2007 PDT

July 31, 2007 Mitsubishi will unveil the Concept-cX at the 62nd Internationale Automobil Ausstellung (IAA; commonly known as the Frankfurt Motor Show) in September. The MITSUBISHI Concept-cX represents a new-generation compact SUV, and uses a new high-output, high-efficiency 1.8-liter clean diesel engine, featuring a variable geometry (VG) turbocharger for optimum boost control and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) with diesel particulate filter (DPF) for compliance with Europe's Euro 5 emission standards. The company's new Twin Clutch SST (Sport Shift Transmission) adds superior power transmission efficiency for a powertrain that delivers nimble performance alongside excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Among the number of new environmental technologies applied in the Concept-cX is the extensive use of interior trim materials made from Mitsubishi's own Green Plastic — made from bamboo and other plant-based resins. Read More

Porsche demonstrates Cayenne SUV hybrid prototype

By Mike Hanlon

July 27, 2007 Porsche this week demonstrated a Cayenne SUV hybrid prototype, providing a glimpse of what the company will offer to consumers by the end of the decade. The Cayenne Hybrid features a full-hybrid design where the hybrid module (clutch and electric motor) is positioned between the combustion engine and the transmission. The design will improve acceleration and engine flexibility compared to a conventional Cayenne and Porsche is targeting average fuel consumption figures of 9.8 liters/100 kilometers in the New European Driving Cycle and about 24 miles per gallon in the US FTP cycle for the Cayenne Hybrid, and hopes future developments may allow it to push towards a consumption figure of 8.9 liters/kilometer (approximately 26 miles per gallon). Porsche plans to introduce similar hybrid technology in a version of its Panamera four-door Gran Turismo. The Panamera will debut in 2009, with a hybrid to follow. Read More

Audi Cross Coupe quattro - compact performance SUV concept

By Mike Hanlon

April 26, 2007 One of the stars of the Shanghai Motor Show is a new Audi Cross Coupé quattro concept that defines a new segment in the field of crossover vehicles. The Audi Cross Coupé quattro combines the design and dynamism of a compact premium sports car with the spaciousness and versatility of a four-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV). Innovative technical solutions show new ways of achieving efficiency, driving pleasure and comfort, on all roads, under all conditions. Read More

The 640 bhp Electric ZAP-X Crossover SUV

By Mike Hanlon

March 22, 2007 Announced only recently, the development of the ZAP-X Crossover vehicle in conjunction with Lotus is looking likely to produce a remarkable automobile. The compact-SUV design will feature all-wheel drive with in-hub electric motors capable to deliver 644 horsepower and a top speed of 155mph. By combining a lightweight aluminum chassis, a new efficient drive system and advanced battery management system, the goal for the ZAP-X is a 350-mile range, with a rapid 10-minute recharging time. Read More

Mazda Hakaze Concept Car: 4-seat coupe-style compact crossover SUV

By Mike Hanlon

February 8, 2007 Mazda will showcase its new Hakaze design concept at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor Show (Salon International de l’Auto de Geneve) next month, continuing its ‘Nagare’ design language lineage onwards from the Mazda Nagare and Mazda Ryuga which were revealed earlier this motor show season. Even when standing still, Hakaze seems to be effortlessly cutting through the air. The Hakaze is a four-seat coupe-style compact crossover SUV designed at Mazda’s European Design Centre and aimed at people in their thirties and forties who lead active, adventurous lifestyles. Read More

The mine-resistant, ambush-protected 6x6 SUV

By Mike Hanlon

February 8, 2007 For when the alternatives to not getting there just don’t bear thinking about, (or if your neighbour has a Hummer), perhaps give some thought to BAE Systems’ new 6x6 RG33. It’s designed with all the latest next-generation technology to help keep soldiers safe from Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), small arms, heavy machine gun fire and mines. The highly survivable RG33 incorporates a monocoque V-shaped hull design leveraging knowledge gained in recent and ongoing conflicts, and offers significant interior volume for crew and mission equipment. The base model exceeds the survivability of all currently-fielded mine protected vehicles and the optional extras include tailorable armor packages, blast-resistant seating, transparent armor and unique reconfigurable interior stations. The power train platforms is designed to handle upgrades and enhancements. Read More

The Delica D:5 fuses minivan with SUV strength and 4WD

By Mike Hanlon

February 8, 2007 Mitsubishi has launched a fully redesigned Delica D:5 on the Japanese market - a minivan that delivers monobox roominess and utility together with high levels of performance and stability in on- and off-road driving. The 2.4-liter 4WD Delica D:5 went on sale at affiliated dealerships throughout Japan last week carrying a tax inclusive price tag ranging from 2,614,500 yen to 3,412,500 yen. Although classified as a monobox minivan, the Delica D:5 sports electronically-controlled 4WD and Active Stability Control (ASC) together with ample obstacle clearance angles and ride height to give it improved running performance and stability both on- and off-road. Other features that will instill a greater sense of safety and reassurance in its users include a new hoop-design "rib bone frame" body structure, a driver SRS knee airbag standard on all models, and plastic resin fender panels that are pliant and have superior shape recovery properties. Read More

50 mpg from a medium sized SUV

By Mike Hanlon

December 12, 2006 Danish-born eco adventurer Hans Tholstrup has a way of creating publicity. It’s how he first came to public prominence when he circumnavigated Australia in a 16 foot open boat but his motorsport exploits, his creation of the World Solar Challenge and more recently his ability to coax extraordinary fuel consumption from an automobile just keep the eco warrior in the spotlight. This week he did it again when attempting the 1400km trip from Adelaide to Sydney without refuelling the car’s standard 75 litre tank. Tholstrup arrived in Sydney still with a quarter of a tank of gas so he pressed on north, eventually finishing in Port Macquarie, 1776.6 kilometres from the start. The Hyundai Santa Fe CRDi Turbo-Diesel he was driving averaged 4.67 litres/100km (50.4 mpg), an astoundingly frugal figure for a 1.9 tonne, medium-sized AWD SUV which can seat seven. Read More

The all-new Land Rover LR2 Premium Compact SUV

By Mike Hanlon

December 3, 2006 Land Rover used the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show to unveil its new premium compact SUV, the Land Rover LR2, earlier this week. The fourth new model launched from Land Rover in just four years, LR2 joins the line-up of Range Rover (2002), Land Rover LR3 (2004) and Range Rover Sport (2005). As the latest addition to the sport-utility vehicle manufacturer's line-up, LR2 is all-new from the ground up, with a view to delivering outstanding on-road performance as well as the off-road ability of a Land Rover. Technical highlights of the LR2 include a brand-new 3.2-liter inline-six engine featuring advanced technologies to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and economy. Read More

Citroen’s new C-Crosser SUV

By Mike Hanlon

October 27, 2006 Citroen has announced first details of a new Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) that will go on sale in Europe from summer 2007. The versatile Citroen C-Crosser boasts four-wheel drive capability, exceptional levels of space and comfort and will will be available with a new generation 156bhp 2.2HDi engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Capable of producing a whopping 380Nm of torque, this diesel power plant also boasts impressive green credentials, offering low fuel consumption, the ability to run on 30% bio-diesel and a Diesel Particulate Filter System that reduces particle emissions to virtually immeasurable levels. Read More

New VW CrossGolf combines SUV and MPV

By Mike Hanlon

September 28, 2006 Volkswagen will be showing a new crossover version of the Golf at the Paris Motor Show which opens today. The CrossGolf merges the can-do qualities of a compact SUV with the versatility of a small MPV into a new model. SUV means “Sports Utility Vehicle”, denoting a significantly more “civilian” stage on the path to the “tough” off-road vehicle. Approximately 480,000 compact SUVs were sold in Europe in 2005. MPV means “Multi Purpose Vehicle”, referring to a van. With its versatile and spacious interior, the CrossGolf also bridges this segment which sold 1.4 million compact SUVs in Europe in 2005. As a combination SUV and MPV, the new CrossGolf is precisely positioned between these poles and has no direct competitor in this class due to its positioning and conception. Read More

VW Crossover Concept A combines sports car design with SUV elements

By Mike Hanlon

February 17, 2006 Volkswagen has revealed its latest design study, the Concept A, a crossover between a sports car and a compact SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle). The concept combines a sleek coupe-style silhouette with the raised stance of an SUV. The study shown in Berlin yesterday is powered by a 110 kW (150 hp) Twincharger (TSI), with power reachingthe wheels via a six gear transmission and an all wheel drive 4MOTION system. Studies such as this are allowed complete freedom though, and VW also suggested that the study might find its way into production (as VW concepts tend to do), powered by a turbo diesel direct fuel injection (TDI) motor or the FSI Turbo of the Golf GTI (147 kW / 200 hp). Read More

Toyota mini SUV Urban Cruiser concept

By Mike Hanlon

February 4, 2006 Toyota is set to show a concept it is billing as an Urban Cruiser at this month’s Geneva Auto Show. The futuristic mini SUV is a design exercise by ED2, Toyota’s European design studio with the concept car drawing heavily on Toyota’s heritage in Sports Utility Vehicles but also adding its own dynamic flair and rugged originality. The Urban Cruiser will also feature a fresh interior style inspired by trendy furniture. Read More

Mazda CX-7 Crossover SUV

By Mike Hanlon

January 7, 2006 EXTENSIVE IMAGE LIBRARY ADDED Mazda Motor Corporation (MC) today revealed the much awaited 2007 Mazda CX-7 crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. This breakthrough model also will be displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. CX-7 is a clean break from the fleet of traditional SUVs currently offered. It is engineered with Mazda’s trademark, “Soul of a Sportscar” and built entirely on Mazda-derived platform architecture. Program manager Shunsuke Kawasaki shows his confidence by stating, “there is no doubt this SUV reflects Zoom-Zoom. CX-7 skillfully blends sports car verve with SUV practicality. It is a vehicle that brings together performance and design like never before and this deviation from the crossover norm is inviting to look at, entertaining to drive, and fun to use.” The CX-7 is just right for adventurous couples seeking a new challenge and driven by the urge for discovery. Read More

The Combat T-98 Armoured Luxury SUV

By Mike Hanlon

October 31, 2005 What would you drive if you knew that the bad guys were coming after you? For many wealthy businessmen across the planet, assassination and kidnap are real possibilities. It’s why the American military built the Smartruck and Smartruck III, and why Labock built the Rhino Runner. Now there’s a new vehicle targeting this niche, designed to transport VIPs in luxury and safety both on- and off-road. The Combat T-98 is the fastest armoured 4WD in the world, and was built from the ground up to be the most capable non-military armoured luxury vehicle in the world. The 8.1 litre 340 bhp Vortec V8 can push the T-98 along at over 180 km/h, and in addition to sumptuous leather and woodgrain fittings, you can order almost any level of active safety feature, from gun ports to a full roof ring to carry a machine gun. In the protection area, you can specify an additional layer of ceramic armouring between the double steel layer monocoque chassis. Even the electric windows are 50mm thick and capable of stopping an armour-piercing bullet . Prices start at US$138,000 for the base model, and you can spend an extra US$100,000 just improving the grade of armour to anti-tank level. If the security of the occupants is paramount, this little baby will ensure they reach their destination in comfort, regardless of whom or what they encounter en route. Read More

Audi Q7 SUV portal signs prospects by the thousand

By Mike Hanlon

July 1, 2005 Multiple medium promotional campaigns using internet sites as the campaign hub continue to grow in functionality and capability and response, as the world penetration of internet connectivity trends towards ubiquity. Accordingly it has been interesting to watch the surge in traffic to Audi's online Broadband portal, “Q7 Globe” - it's the biggest multi-channel marketing project ever undertaken by the company for the launch of a new model and although the Audi Q7 SUV will not have its premiere until the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the "Q7 Globe" online portal has already signed up 110,000 prospects. Read More

Suzuki Compact SUV Concept X2

By Mike Hanlon

March 25, 2005 Building on its considerable SUV heritage and borrowing from its recreational lifestyle roots, Suzuki revealed its compact SUV concept - Suzuki Concept-X2 - at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) yesterday. The Concept-X2 is a customer-focused SUV for "adventure-seekers unwilling to sacrifice capability, power, performance, safety or style in a right-sized sport-utility package." The Concept-X2 was unveiled as the second embodiment of the automaker's new customer-focused "Way of Life" philosophy - a new brand vision for Suzuki that was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit with the Concept-X. Read More

Cadillac's stretch SUV

By Mike Hanlon

March 29, 2005 Cadillac has been getting a lot of press for its limousines of late, but in our mind, the jewel in the crown is not American President George W. Bush’s “missile-proof” 2006 Cadillac DTS Presidential Limousine or even the Cadillac DTS Executive Limousine that real estate magnate Donald Trump accepted at the New York Motor Show. We like the Cadillac Escalade ESVe (for executive) limousine. With a 40-inch wheelbase extension, the Escalade ESVe limousine is a mobile board room and entertainment suite on wheels. It is equipped with opulent amenities and seating for four passengers in the rear cabin. Read More

EDAG and Rinspeed present the 600 horsepower Chopster SUV

By Mike Hanlon

February 19, 2005 Last November Gizmag released the first information about the Porsche Cayenne-based Rinspeed Chopster and at the time we commented that the beautiful Cayenne was a most unlikely vehicle to mess with. The new 600 horsepower Chopster SUV will debut at the Geneva Motor Show and interestingly, it somehow got a lot better looking in the last three months. A collaboration between two of the most innovative automotive companies in the world, the Chopster offers 800nM of torque and costs around 325,000 Euro. Read More

Toyota's FJ Cruiser SUV goes from concept to production model at 2005 Chicago Auto Show

By Mike Hanlon

February 12, 2005 Toyota unveiled the all-new FJ Cruiser sport utility vehicle (SUV) at the 2005 Chicago Auto Show this week. Like so many other concept vehicles greeted by a positive response, the FJ Cruiser concept of two years ago has catalysed a production version. The all-new production model retains much of the design details of the original concept. "The FJ Cruiser effectively fills a gap in the Toyota lineup which was once our core heritage - capable, affordable and durable vehicles that are youthful, fun-to-drive, aggressive and tough," said a Toyota spokesperson. "The FJ Cruiser will deliver true off-road ruggedness, image and performance at a very low price, making it highly accessible for a large volume of young buyers." Read More

Lexus Introduces RX 400h, the World's First Luxury Hybrid SUV

By Mike Hanlon

February 1, 2005 Lexus today announced the launch of the all-new 2006 RX 400h, the world's first gas/electric hybrid-powered luxury vehicle, which will go on sale in April 2005. Based on the best-selling RX 330, the RX 400h delivers greater performance, improved fuel efficiency and significantly reduced emissions while sacrificing … nothing. Read More