#Suv

MINI is apparently starting work on a two-door variation of the Countryman SUV, with a vehicle that would be similar in concept to the just announced Range Rover Evoque.

GM is recalling 200,000 crossovers, among them the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook due to a piece of trim in the vehicle’s second row of seats.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Range Rover, parent company Land Rover is launching the most opulent SUV in its history, with the Range Rover Autobiography Black Limited Edition.

While we’ve been paying so much attention to Toyota’s Prius and Honda’s upcoming CR-Z in terms of aftermarket modifications, it’s easy to overlook that there are more than just sport compact hybrids running around on the streets. For those that still yearn for the luxury and comfort of an SUV, Porsche’s Cayenne S Hybrid is a great alternative in saving some gas while still riding in comfort and style.

But the gap is being narrowed with aftermarket companies looking to tune hybrids, unleashing even more horsepower without sacrificing mpgs. SpeedART has dubbed their Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid project speedHYBRID 450 for its 450-hp power output, an increase of 70 over the factory spec. Torque is 420 ft-lbs.

They don’t quite explain how the majority of this power is gained, but do specify that it doesn’t alter the electric mode. We’re guessing mpg isn’t drastically changed despite the power gains. In addition, a sport exhaust system is offered with a sound switch for those that want to dial-it down a bit when needed.

On the outside are staggered 22-inch wheels from LSC-Forged. Lowering the car is an electronic module for the air ride system.

SpeedART also noted that they currently have a pair of body kits under development to also change the styling of the Cayenne S Hybrid.  We’ll keep our eyes out!

GALLERY: SpeedART Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid

Official press release available after the break.

The Cadillac Escalade is the most stolen vehicle in America, according to newly released data by the Highway Loss Data Institute. Using data that measures the number of insurance claims, as well as the payout received, the HLDI’s formula differs from those used by law enforcement agencies that take into account only the number of stolen vehicles.

Nissan is apparently planning on bringing a convertible version of its Murano crossover to market, with a debut set for this November’s Los Angeles Auto Show.

Hybrids and alternative fuel might appear to be all the rage these days, but a report in USA Today claims that the hottest selling segment in the car market is, surprise surprise, full-size SUVs.

Take a look at the Ford Territory SUV pictured above. It looks just like our now-dead North American market Ford Taurus X, right? Underneath, the two cars couldn’t be different. The Taurus X is based on the last generation Taurus, a heavy, lumbering, underpowered behemoth, while the Territory is based on the rear-drive Falcon, and is available with an Inline 6 turbo or a V8.

Jeep‘s Wrangler is straying from its spartan mandate to incorporate things like a body colored hardtop and an upgraded interior featuring modern looking switchgear and a two-tone color palate.

Mazda is said to be launching a new SUV, dubbed the CX-5, in late 2011. Details are sparse, but considering that the current Mazda Tribute will be nearly 13 years old by the time the CX-5 bows, such a model would make sense for the lineup.

The 2011 Kia Sportage is set to go for $18,295 ($18,990 with destination), while coming equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, power windows, doorlocks and mirrors, auxillary inputs and Bluetooth connectivity.

Powered by a 2.4L, 176 horsepower 4-cylinder, the Sportage is also set to get the 270 horsepower 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo motor from the Hyundai corporate stable.

More luxurious LX models will feature LED turn signal indicators, keyless entry and privacy glass. The top of the line model gets 18-inch rims and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Six airbags, four-wheel ABS and electronic stability control are also standard.

Hit the jump to read the official press release

[Source: Kia]

Is this the 2012 Dodge Magnum aka Dodge’s replacement for the Dodge Durango? Spy photos obtained by blogger Asian Martin show the vehicle’s design, and a 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee next to it, and we’re inclined to think so.

In a move that’s hardly shocking to North Americans, Range Rover insiders told Autocar that the all-new TDV8 diesel engine will not be offered in North America.

MINI‘s Countryman SUV is likely going to have some tough competition from the Nissan Juke, but the announcement of some specifications for the newest MINI should take away from some of the buzz that Nissan’s strange-looking crossover has been enjoying.

The Ford Transit Connect, Jeep Liberty, Jeep Wrangler, Dodge Nitro and RAM 1500 are being recalled by Ford and Chrysler respectively, for separate issues.