Has the Detroit Motor Show Lost its Mojo?

With the U.S auto market catching momentum in 2010, most of us had high expectations for this year's edition of the North American International Auto Show. And while Porsche's comeback to the show after a four-year hiatus was a welcome addition, the absence of key players such as Nissan, Infiniti and Mazda continues to worry.

But even the companies that did take part in the show didn't really impress with their offerings. The fact that the first press day was more than enough for the participating [mainstream] brands to announce their new production and concept models at the Cobo Center, says a lot about this year's event.

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Los Angeles Show 2010: California Girls

You didn't think we'd leave you without a quick taste of the lovely booth professionals of the Los Angeles Auto Show, did you? So without further ado, enjoy our selection of California beauties in the photo gallery after the jump, and if you missed out on our main coverage with all the new car presentations, click here to check out our dedicated post.

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2:57 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Los Angeles Show 2010: California Girls

You didn't think we'd leave you without a quick taste of the lovely booth professionals of the Los Angeles Auto Show, did you? So without further ado, enjoy our selection of California beauties in the photo gallery after the jump, and if you missed out on our main coverage with all the new car presentations, click here to check out our dedicated post.

Read more »

2:57 PM | 0 comments | Read More

2010 LA Design Challenge ends with a Tie: Cadillac and Smart Declared Winners

This year's Los Angeles Design Challenge ended with a tie, as judges, after much deliberation, declared two winners: the Cadillac Aera and smart 454 WWT. The challenge was to envision a four passenger car tipping the scales under 1,000 lbs (454 kg).

"Deciding this year's Design Challenge winner was a tremendously difficult decision as the quality of entries has increased throughout the years", agreed the Design Los Angeles judges. "This year's winners - the Cadillac Aera and the smart 454 WWT - offer two very different visions of the 1,000 lb. Car, yet are equally as amazing. They are both very expressive of their brand; GM is art and science and smart is playful and fun".

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2010 LA Design Challenge ends with a Tie: Cadillac and Smart Declared Winners

This year's Los Angeles Design Challenge ended with a tie, as judges, after much deliberation, declared two winners: the Cadillac Aera and smart 454 WWT. The challenge was to envision a four passenger car tipping the scales under 1,000 lbs (454 kg).

"Deciding this year's Design Challenge winner was a tremendously difficult decision as the quality of entries has increased throughout the years", agreed the Design Los Angeles judges. "This year's winners - the Cadillac Aera and the smart 454 WWT - offer two very different visions of the 1,000 lb. Car, yet are equally as amazing. They are both very expressive of their brand; GM is art and science and smart is playful and fun".

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Video Presentation of Subaru's tasty Impreza Design Concept

One of the head-turners at this year's edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show is Subaru's new Impreza Design Concept. As the name suggests, the purpose of the study is to tease the next generation of the Impreza.

Even though there's a familiar resemblance with the latest Subaru Legacy, the concept features more aggressive and taut lines and a lower, almost coupe-like roofline. As Phil pointed out in our previous post, let's just hope that the next Impreza will keep if not all, most of the key styling elements seen on this concept model. For now, hit the break to watch a pair of promotional videos as well as a clip from the LA Show presentation of the Impreza Design Concept.

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Video Presentation of Subaru's tasty Impreza Design Concept

One of the head-turners at this year's edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show is Subaru's new Impreza Design Concept. As the name suggests, the purpose of the study is to tease the next generation of the Impreza.

Even though there's a familiar resemblance with the latest Subaru Legacy, the concept features more aggressive and taut lines and a lower, almost coupe-like roofline. As Phil pointed out in our previous post, let's just hope that the next Impreza will keep if not all, most of the key styling elements seen on this concept model. For now, hit the break to watch a pair of promotional videos as well as a clip from the LA Show presentation of the Impreza Design Concept.

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2010 Los Angeles Auto Show Debuts: A to Z Guide

[Updated] Welcome to Carscoop's coverage of the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. From this page we'll keep you updated on all the new models and concept cars that will make their debut in the city of Angels during the press days November 17-18 (for the public, the show runs November 19 to 28 ).

This year's edition of the motor show will play host to some 20 world premieres and no less than 30 North American debuts across all vehicle categories ranging from an array of new models from the reborn Chrysler Group, to a Subaru study and the quirky Nissan Murano Convertible. Check out our A-to-Z guide right after the break.

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5:07 PM | 0 comments | Read More

2010 Los Angeles Auto Show Debuts: A to Z Guide

[Updated] Welcome to Carscoop's coverage of the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. From this page we'll keep you updated on all the new models and concept cars that will make their debut in the city of Angels during the press days November 17-18 (for the public, the show runs November 19 to 28 ).

This year's edition of the motor show will play host to some 20 world premieres and no less than 30 North American debuts across all vehicle categories ranging from an array of new models from the reborn Chrysler Group, to a Subaru study and the quirky Nissan Murano Convertible. Check out our A-to-Z guide right after the break.

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LA Show 2010: New Dodge Charger with Plenty of Photos, Video and Prices

So, we hear -from our comments section- that you want more of the new 2011 Dodge Charger. We have you covered, both picture- and video-wise. By now, you probably know all the basics including the sheetmetal changes, vastly improved interior in terms of styling and materials and the introduction of a new 3.6-liter V6 with 292HP and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, which joins the venerable 5.7-liter HEMI V8 that delivers 370 ponies and a 0-60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds for the R/T version.

We'll just add that the market launch is scheduled for December with prices (including $825 destination) starting from $25,995 for the base 2011 Charger SE with the V6 Pentastar. If you want the HEMI V8 effect, the rear-wheel drive R/T will cost you $30,995, while the AWD version, $33,145. Enjoy the video and our high-resolution image gallery after the jump.

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4:09 PM | 0 comments | Read More

LA Show 2010: New Dodge Charger with Plenty of Photos, Video and Prices

So, we hear -from our comments section- that you want more of the new 2011 Dodge Charger. We have you covered, both picture- and video-wise. By now, you probably know all the basics including the sheetmetal changes, vastly improved interior in terms of styling and materials and the introduction of a new 3.6-liter V6 with 292HP and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, which joins the venerable 5.7-liter HEMI V8 that delivers 370 ponies and a 0-60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds for the R/T version.

We'll just add that the market launch is scheduled for December with prices (including $825 destination) starting from $25,995 for the base 2011 Charger SE with the V6 Pentastar. If you want the HEMI V8 effect, the rear-wheel drive R/T will cost you $30,995, while the AWD version, $33,145. Enjoy the video and our high-resolution image gallery after the jump.

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2011 Hyundai Elantra Pricing Released, Starts from $15,550

Hyundai revealed the US-spec version of its all-new 2011 Elantra in LA this week, and now the South Korean automaker has released figures and pricing for its fluidic compact sedan contender. Powered by a 1.8-liter Nu engine backed by a Hyundai-developed 6-speed transmission or a 6-speed manual, the Elantra boasts a 40 mpg highway, and 29 mpg city fuel ratings on any and every model. If you're inclined, scroll down for some comparison charts to see how the Elantra stacks up against the competition.

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2011 Hyundai Elantra Pricing Released, Starts from $15,550

Hyundai revealed the US-spec version of its all-new 2011 Elantra in LA this week, and now the South Korean automaker has released figures and pricing for its fluidic compact sedan contender. Powered by a 1.8-liter Nu engine backed by a Hyundai-developed 6-speed transmission or a 6-speed manual, the Elantra boasts a 40 mpg highway, and 29 mpg city fuel ratings on any and every model. If you're inclined, scroll down for some comparison charts to see how the Elantra stacks up against the competition.

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Nissan Ellure Concept: Video, Plus Live Photos from LA Show Floor

We've already covered the Nissan Ellure Concept, so you've probably seen our gallery consisting of 55 pictures. However, those images don't do it justice. The swooping lines and sharp edges are not so evident, neither is the balance between the boomerang-themed headlamps and aggressive front grille. But fear not, even if you don't make it to the LA Show, you can get a better view of the Ellure through the video (and the live shots) we have added after the jump.

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1:50 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Ellure Concept: Video, Plus Live Photos from LA Show Floor

We've already covered the Nissan Ellure Concept, so you've probably seen our gallery consisting of 55 pictures. However, those images don't do it justice. The swooping lines and sharp edges are not so evident, neither is the balance between the boomerang-themed headlamps and aggressive front grille. But fear not, even if you don't make it to the LA Show, you can get a better view of the Ellure through the video (and the live shots) we have added after the jump.

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LA Show 2010: Mercedes BIOME Concept is a Stunner

For this year's Los Angeles Design Challenge, Mercedes-Benz readied the BIOME, a super lightweight and eco-friendly (more than you could ever image...) sports car. It was created by a design team from the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Carlsbad, California. If you read the press release though, you'll probably think that Mercedes is talking about a cucumber and not a car. Don't believe us? Check out this expert:

"[The team] Taking their inspiration from nature, they designed a vehicle which is fully integrated into the ecosystem, from the moment of its creation right through to the end of its service life. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME grows in a completely organic environment from seeds sown in a nursery. Out on the road the car emits pure oxygen, and at the end of its lifespan it can be simply composted or used as building material."

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1:21 PM | 0 comments | Read More

LA Show 2010: Mercedes BIOME Concept is a Stunner

For this year's Los Angeles Design Challenge, Mercedes-Benz readied the BIOME, a super lightweight and eco-friendly (more than you could ever image...) sports car. It was created by a design team from the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Carlsbad, California. If you read the press release though, you'll probably think that Mercedes is talking about a cucumber and not a car. Don't believe us? Check out this expert:

"[The team] Taking their inspiration from nature, they designed a vehicle which is fully integrated into the ecosystem, from the moment of its creation right through to the end of its service life. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME grows in a completely organic environment from seeds sown in a nursery. Out on the road the car emits pure oxygen, and at the end of its lifespan it can be simply composted or used as building material."

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1:21 PM | 0 comments | Read More

LA Show 2010: New Toyota RAV4 EV Powered by Tesla Appears in the Flesh [with Video]

[Updated gallery] Apparently the RAV4 is still around, and Toyota has partnered with Tesla to make a new EV version of the SUV so the common man can be just like Tom Hanks. The second generation of RAV4 EV is currently undergoing a 35-vehicle test run and analysis through 2011 (similar to the Mini E's pilot program), with production vehicles set to start showing up in 2012... as long as something catastrophic doesn't happen.

The creation of the RAV4 EV was a two pronged attack: Toyota engineers took care of the powertrain upgrade/engineering as they normally would a mid-cycle product change, while Tesla engineers developed the battery pack and related systems.

Toyota says that the EV version of Toyota's CR-V fighter weighs about 220 lbs more than a comparably equipped V6 model, but retains similar acceleration figures. Due to the weight gain (couldn't we call in Lotus to tackle that?), suspension and steering components had to be properly modified or relocated to maintain proper balance.

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12:28 PM | 0 comments | Read More

LA Show 2010: New Toyota RAV4 EV Powered by Tesla Appears in the Flesh [with Video]

[Updated gallery] Apparently the RAV4 is still around, and Toyota has partnered with Tesla to make a new EV version of the SUV so the common man can be just like Tom Hanks. The second generation of RAV4 EV is currently undergoing a 35-vehicle test run and analysis through 2011 (similar to the Mini E's pilot program), with production vehicles set to start showing up in 2012... as long as something catastrophic doesn't happen.

The creation of the RAV4 EV was a two pronged attack: Toyota engineers took care of the powertrain upgrade/engineering as they normally would a mid-cycle product change, while Tesla engineers developed the battery pack and related systems.

Toyota says that the EV version of Toyota's CR-V fighter weighs about 220 lbs more than a comparably equipped V6 model, but retains similar acceleration figures. Due to the weight gain (couldn't we call in Lotus to tackle that?), suspension and steering components had to be properly modified or relocated to maintain proper balance.

Read more »

12:28 PM | 0 comments | Read More

Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet: Live Photos from LA Show Plus Video

We're not sure if you've had enough of the new Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet yet, but either way, if you follow the break, you'll find live photos of the Japanese firm's two-door / SUV / convertible mishmash from the Los Angeles motor show floor, along with the first official video of the model with some B-roll footage. If this strange combo has hit a cord with you, click here to read our detailed analysis of the new Murano which is scheduled to reach U.S. dealership early next year.

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