Acura‘s all-new MDX crossover was caught on camera by our spy photographer, giving us a preview of the iconic car-based utility vehicle, albeit in a heavy layer of clothing. 

Unfortunately, there wasn’t any skin showing, but the new Acura is expected to hit showrooms in 2013 as a 2014 model. Still, we can see that the new model will probably have a refreshed shape, and doubtless styling updates to boot. Despite not being able to actually see the new version, it’s a reasonable assumption that it will share traits with the 2013 RLX.

Aside from a new look, the upcoming car is expected to share a powertrain with the RLX, meaning there will two engine options in the lineup. The standard V6 will remain, but a hybrid model is also coming that will feature the new electric Super Handling all-wheel drive we’re looking forward to in the new NSX supercar.

GALLERY: 2014 Acura MDX spy photos

Earlier this week in Tennessee, the 2013 Nissan Altima rolled off the line to an executive reception, but nestled into the release accompanying the event was confirmation of a 2013 Nissan Rogue. 

With little more than a name drop, the company’s release confirmed that next year’s model will, in fact, also come as the next generation. Reviewing the Nissan concept cars we’ve seen over the last few auto shows, the Hi-Cross concept seems as if it could be a likely candidate.

Though the concept debuted as replacement for the boxy X-Trail, the Hi-Cross could make a good update to the Rogue given that it uses the same inline four-cylinder engine, though it will also probably be offered with a hybrid powertrain as well.

While the seven-passenger concept would be a departure from the previous five-passenger vehicle, it would fit into Nissan’s promise for five new vehicles over the next 15 months (including the 2013 Altima). In the same release, the automaker also confirmed a new Leaf, Pathfinder, Xterra and Maxima.

Along with the Q3 jinlong yufeng and RS Q3 which both debuted at the recent Beijing Auto Show, Audi will showcase a third Q3 concept car at the upcoming Worthersee Tour VW GTI meet in Austria.

Powered by the same turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder as the RS Q3 making 340 hp, the Q3 Red Track can sprint to 60 mph in just 5.4 – although its adventure capabilities don’t stop there.

Designed as an outdoor lifestyle vehicle the Q3 Red Track gets running boards and flared fenders, with a track that’s been increased by 1.57-inches. The Q3 has also been lifted by 1.18-inches to improve off-road capability. Special aluminum roof rails sit atop the crossover with integrated wide-angle LED lights. And to protect the underside, a special panels protect parts like the dual-exhaust system.

Along with a custom grille, the outside of the Q3 Red Track features numerous unique traits, including its Energy Red paint with matte gray detailing. Inside it gets a unique seat material that uses both leather and fabric, with an Alcantara headliner and black Nappa leather on the dash.

Other interior highlights put the focus back on the Q3′s purpose with a Thermos canister in the cup holder that can heat or chill drinks plus a charging station in the trunk for flashlights that can also function as infra-red heating elements. The trunk floor mat actually features heating coils and can be folded out over the rear bumper so you don’t scratch the shiny paint when loading items. Additionally, the Audi MMI navigation screen features a special function that displays the car’s longitudinal and latitudinal tilt angle.

Along with the three Q3 concepts, Audi’s participation at the Worthersee Tour will also include a display of 16 production vehicles as well as what it’s calling the e-bike Worthersee prototype.

The Worthersee Tour kicks off May 16th.

GALLERY: Audi Q3 Red Track

Sharing some body camouflage from its big brother the Cayenne, our photographers have just snapped these spy photos of the upcoming 2014 Porsche Macan.

Set to slot in below the Cayenne and ride on the same platform as the Audi Q5, the Porsche Macan is noticeably smaller with a lower overall height as well.

Details on what engines the Porsche Macan will sport have not been confirmed but there’s plenty of speculation and a long list of donor engines within the VW Group lineup. For starters there’s the same hybrid drivetrain used in the Audi Q5 Hybrid with a VW-sourced 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine being mated to a 44 hp electric motor. A non-hybrid 4-cylinder is also rumored and either way it’s a near certainty that the Macan will be the first Porsche since 1995 to sport fewer than six-cylinders.

A top level Porsche Macan Turbo is believed to get a 3.0-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers making 370 hp and around 400 lb-ft of torque. Look for Porsche’s 7-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic to be used, while there is the possibility we could see the 911′s new 7-speed manual as well.

Along with the 4-door spied here, Porsche is prepping a 2-door version of the Macan as well.

GALLERY: 2014 Porsche Macan Spy Photos

Small SUVs are heating up faster than a bunsen burner in science class and VW seems happy to provide the gas. According to German publication Handelsblatt, there will be two new models on the way that will be smaller than the Tiguan. 

Considering that Audi is also rumored to be considering an A2 small crossover that would compete directly with the Nissan Juke, it would make sense that its parent company would also be thinking of a similar move. In the past, VW spoke of building something along those lines based on the Suzuki SX4, but with ties between the company severed, that dream is dead.

The most recent report is suggesting that a small SUV based on the Volkswagen Up! would be available while a larger version based on the Polo would slot in between the aforementioned car and the Tiguan.

According to Handelsblatt, the Up!-based vehicle would sell for well under 20,000 euros, wich roughly translates to $26,000. Given that neither of the prospective donor cars are available in the U.S. today, it seems unlikely that whatever spawns will swim across to the American market — a traditional standpoint with German automakers and the small cars each produces.

Despite that old attitude, the growing demand for more fuel efficient cars and success of cars like the Nissan Juke might be enough to sway German opinion. Audi already committed to building a plant in Mexico to assemble the Q5 in North America for 2016, which represents growing dedication to the customer base.

While the Q5 is nothing like the two future vehicles that seem possible here, the fact that the company is pouring more money into reducing American production costs is probably the first seed of a growing commitment in the country.

[Source: Automotive News]

Slated to arrive this Fall for the first time in U.S. dealerships, BMW released a huge gallery its 2013 X1 to showcase its facelifted crossover.

Canada got dibs on the BMW X1 in 2011, but the smallest of the X Series won’t make its American debut until this fall with the updated 2013 model. Priced lower than the Audi Q5, the Bavarian crossover will start at $31,545, which is more than $4,000 cheaper than the current Audi Q5.

With two gasoline engines available in the U.S. lineup, customers will be able to choose between a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four with 240 hp and 260 lb-ft or a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with 300hp and 300 lb-ft for $39,345.

The lower-priced X1 sDrive28i features rear-wheel drive and is the base model, while the brand’s “x-drive” all-wheel drive system is available for an additional fee. The higher-level X1 xDrive35i, on the other hand, is only available in the all-wheel drive configuration as its name suggests.

Drivers who opt for the four-cylinder model will get an 8-speed automatic transmission good for 24/33 mpg city/highway with rear-wheel drive and 22/30 with all-wheel drive.

Choosing the inline six-cylinder will obviously compromise fuel efficiency in favor of performance, but the transmission changes too. A 6-speed automatic replaces its calmer counterpart and gets 18/27 mpg city/highway.

While the latest BMW crossover to hit the States isn’t available yet, you can click through our gallery below to get an idea of what to expect later this year.

GALLERY: 2013 BMW X1

The latest Land Rover Evoque “Special Edition with Victoria Beckham” seems to possess all the right ingredients to become a proper special edition vehicle. The former “Posh Spice” member of the wildly successful Brit pop girl group Spice Girls, a stand-out BFA award-winning fashion designer, and wife of international soccer star David Beckham, Victoria has worked closely with the British Automaker in developing the latest model.

In its latest Victoria Beckham special edition offering, the Evoque features what Victoria described as a “masculine” treatment. Describing her process, Victoria Beckham explained, “When I first started working with the team I did a lot of research, and created mood boards to show the team my love of timeless and classic design. I looked at yachts, luxury jets and classic cars.”

The result is an exterior painted in a stealthy matte gray color scheme accented with a glossy black roof and trim pieces. The 20-inch wheels are black as well, each wearing 245/45 rubber, exclusive to this particular edition Evoque. Lending a softer “Posh” touch, Victoria sprinkled rose-gold accents, painted onto the wheels and plated to additional trim pieces inside and out.

As for the special Evoque’s interior, Victoria Beckham chose “vintage tan” semi-aniline leathers , finishing the seats with baseball stitching a composition that gets Mrs. Beckham to remember her family’s time in California. What’s more, Victoria also chose Mohair Carpets similar to those found in her father’s Rolls-Royce. Finally, no special edition is complete without a bespoke four-piece luggage set to go with the vehicle.

Mechanically untouched, the Evoque Special Edition with Victoria Beckham offers the same turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four engine producing 240-hp. Land Rover has decided not to tack on a bespoke “Special Edition with Victoria Beckham” badge onto the Evoque either, as a long and clumsy moniker won’t do the car any favors anyway. Instead, the limited examples will be distinguished by Beckham’s signature found inside the leather folder for the Evoque owner’s manual.

Only 200 examples of “Special Edition with Victoria Beckham” will be produced, beginning sales in the Chinese market first. Prices start at £80,000 to £90,000, or $130,000 to $145,000 after currency exchange. While a 200 percent mark up over a standard Evoque may seem outrageous, no price is too high for the well-heeled.

Check out the Evoque “Special Edition with Victoria Beckham” promo video below:

GALLERY: Land Rover Evoque Special Edition with Victoria Beckham

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Insiders at the Ingolstadt automaker say Audi is planning to launch its smallest SUV yet, the Q2, which will slot in below the Q3 (shown above).

Said to utilize the same architecture that will also underpin the next generation A3, it’s believed we’ll see a concept version debut within a year and likely a production model will follow within 18 months of that.

In terms of configuration, the Q2 is expected to be a strict four-seater with a swoopy roof profile (think along the lines of a baby BMW X6) and targeted as a lifestyle machine, with limited off-road capability and primarily front-drive.

However, taking a cue from the Mini Crossman, insiders say Audi plans to offer a range of personalization options for the Q2, such as roof and mirror cap colours, interior panels and even the seats and steering wheel.

Given that Audi seems bent on filling just about every automotive niche it can, some have been asking whether or not we’ll see a Q4 as well, especially considering a Q6 is likely already on its way. Yet one source said, perhaps surprisingly that a Q4 isn’t likely to materialize.

“In higher levels of pricing, it makes sense to have a lower-volume niche machine like the Q6, but it can’t be justified in the lower segment,” the source declared.

[Source: carssales.com.au]

Ward’s Auto has released its top 10 picks for best interior in 2012 today, though in no particular order. Here they are with brief notes on each car’s engine specs and starting price.

The 2012 Mazda CX-5 crossover is powered by 2.0-liter Skyactiv inline four cylinder that makes 155 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque with a starting MSRP of $20,695 with front-wheel drive.

Despite an all-new look, platform, new engines and technology, the 2013 Ford Escape is priced lower than its predecessor. Starting at $23,295 (including $895 shipping), the Escape S, which comes with a 168 hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, is a slight $200 less than the 2012 model.

Running through the list of models the SE will retail for $25,895 and will come standard with Ford’s 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged engine is expected to make up as much as 90 percent of the Escape’s volume and makes 173 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. Ford also expects it will get 5 mpg better than its predecessor.

SEL models start at $28,695 and include the MyFord Touch infotainment system, a 10-way power driver’s seat and both front and rear temperature controls.

The top-trim Titanium costs $31,265 and comes with a more potent 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine as well as Ford’s new hands-free liftgate. That feature will also be available on SEL models but as a steep $1,895 option. The 2.0L EcoBoost is designed as a replacement for the V6 and delivers 237 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque.

GALLERY: 2013 Ford Escape

Only a little more than a week ahead of the upcoming Beijing Auto Show, Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann disclosed new development details on its upcoming SUV.

Speaking to German newspaper Handelsblatt, Winkelmann revealed Lamborghini’s goal to have an SUV as a new third model to diversify the Lamborghini line-up as soon as 2017. Suffering losses (as most supercar brands do) since 2009, Lamborghini is under pressure from parent company Volkswagen to become a profitable asset.

“We definitely need a third line in the mid- and long-term. An SUV Would be the first Lamborghini for everyday use, not just for the race track or weekends. We would have the opportunity to win new costumers,” Winkelmann explained. “It usually takes 48 months until an all-new vehicle arrives at dealers, so the new Lamborghini would not be available to buy before 2007.”

Identifying China as a key market for high-end luxury SUVs, the future Lamborghini joins VW’s line of luxury SUVs including the Volkswagen Touareg, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne, and the in-development Bentley SUV. Other premium automakers are also catching onto the trend in China, as Land Rover intends to move upmarket with more expensive models as well.

Both Bentley and Lamborghini halo brands are expected to use an updated version of the Volkswagen Group PL71 platform. Also, to provide the intensity and level of excitement that Lamborghini is known for, the Italian marque will be using its own engines for its new vehicle, most likely a modified version of the Gallardo V10.

GALLERY: Lamborghini SUV Concept

[Source: AutoNews]

As more and more automakers embrace social media marketing, Lamborghini has opted for a more intimate approach, inviting select clientele to attend a special New York City preview event to gain feedback for a potential third model for the Lamborghini line-up.

Lamborghini should, however, know that technology always prevails with details of the private affair having leaked on the internet.

A couple guests blabbered news of a cherry red Lamborghini SUV concept that will make its way to a Beijing premiere at the Auto China later in the month. Armed with a personal blog, one Lamborghini guest, Ed Bolian, revealed that the new Rambo Lambo features a silhouette similar to the BMW X6 and an overall size similar to the Audi Q7, all but confirming previous reports that the Lamborghini SUV will use a modified VW Group PL71 SUV platform that’s also used for the Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen Touareg.

Even though an SUV body style is naturally higher off the ground, Lamborghini’s carbon fiber body kit brought out a more muscular and couple-like profile to make the stance of the Lamborghini SUV seem lower and more planted. Bolian also described the front fascia as Estoque-like, while also featuring a full LED headlight arrangement. The rear of the SUV is emphasized by a boldly designed trapezoidal quad-exhaust, integrated to the rear diffuser. Wheels on the SUV are 24-inches in diameter and incorporate carbon fiber blades similar to that of the Aventador J. A dramatic statement for a concept vehicle, the carbon fiber blades are unlikely to carry over into production.

Inside, carbon fiber trim is generously applied throughout the cabin, lending an appearance similar to the interior of the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento. What’s more, a high center console extends to the rear passengers to provide a more coupe-like seating arrangement.

Lamborghini has yet to reveal any details regarding the production powertrain but previous reports have suggested a Gallardo-sourced 5.2-liter V10 engine, producing 585-hp.

Whether the concept is the real deal or just a styling exercise, we’re excited to share more information on Lamborghini’s concept SUV as we draw closer to Beijing’s Auto China show.

GALLERY: Lamborghini SUV

[Source: World Car Fans]