Leaked: Opel Meriva Concept Pictures

After the first sketch that surfaced and a leaked teaser image last week, more Opel Meriva concept pictures leaked to internet. These pictures are first unofficial images of the Meriva concept.

The minivan doesn't have a ground breaking design with its regular profile and Corsa-like front end. The most important show piece of the concept is its FlexDoors; essentially rear-hinged suicide doors for back seat passengers.

We've to wait just a week for the official unveiling of the concept in Geneva.

Gallery: Opel Meriva Concept Images Leaked

Geneva 2008 Preview: Kia To Show 3 SOUL Concepts

With the SOUL Burner concept, one of the three SOUL concept vehicles which Kia will be showing at Geneva, Kia follows the footprints of Scion, Toyota's young division. Part of the selling point of Toyota's Scion brand has been offering a very limited number of factory configurations and an almost endless list of customization options. Likewise, Scion ads often highlight the many ways that owners have made their cars unique.

Like the Scion models, the trio of SOUL concepts highlight the personalization options for the new car. The first teaser shot of the one Kia calls the SOUL Burner has just been released showing off its matte paint finish, tattoos and fancy wheels.

New Opel Meriva Concept Image Leaked Revealed

After the first teaser sketch of the new Opel Meriva, the first image of Opel's new mini MPV revealed ahead the car's public debut at Geneva. The current Meriva is on the roads since 2003. The concept is expected to give a clear indication of what the production Meriva look like.

It was rumored that the concept will preview a suicide door system. This system is now coming back into fashion after decades of being neglected. Suicide doors operate a normal front door which swings forward in an arc and is hinged to front A pillar. The rear doors swing rearwards in an arc from the cars C pillar. Generally the car will then do without a B pillar, so when both doors are open there is unimpeded access to the whole cockpit. But previous spy shots show that Opel’s system may use a B pillar. Opel refers to this door set-up as their FlexDoors system. It is similar to Mazda’s RX8 and Mazda’s B series pickups.

The Meriva is expected to carry over the Corsa’s drivetrain which means 1.3 to 1.7 litre diesels and 1.4 to 1.8 litre petrol’s.

Chicago 2008: Toyota Tundra Warrior Concept

Toyota has unveiled the Toyota Tundra Warrior concept at Chicago. The Warrior appeared at the Chicago Auto Show to gauge public reaction to the SR5-based upgrade package. It looks certainly better than the standard version.

The exterior is complemented by brushed metal on the side mirrors, door handles, and fuel door. With tinted taillight lenses at the back and contrasting 17-inch TRD wheels.

We don't know anything about the interior yet but it reportedly banishes some of the faults of the cabin. The interior is decked out in inky hues with brushed metal brightwork. If the Warrior hits showrooms, it would be available as an upgrade on 4x2 and 4x4 models with the 4.7- and 5.7-liter V8s.

Geneva 2008 Preview: Hyundai HED-5 Concept

Hyundai has announced its lineup for the Geneva Show. The most important vehicle is the HED-5 concept, an MPV with good fuel economy, which seats for six (from Recaro).

The automaker will also unveil the restyled version of the Euro-market Matrix MPV and debut a new equipment package designed to cut vehicle emissions by up to 29% and encourage increased fuel economy. Not much details about the system but it seems like the Efficient Dynamics used by BMW.

Geneva 2008 Preview: Opel/Vauxhall Meriva Concept

GM's European division Opel/Vauxhall is preparing to unveil its latest show car at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show next month. The Meriva Concept is Opel/Vauxhall's study for what form the next Euro minivan could take.

The Meriva Concept, draws on the previous GTC Coupe and Flextreme concepts and applies the theme to a monocab form, a segment in which Opel/Vauxhall account for one fifth of continental sales between the Zafira, Meriva and Agila MPVs. Expect the Meriva Concept to preview the direction that GM's European tall wagons will take in the near future.

Chicago 2008 Preview: Hyundai i-Blue Fel Cell Car To Make North American Debut At Chicago

Hyundai has confirmed that they will be premiering the Hyundai i-Blue fuel cell concept at the Chicago Auto Show. This is the North American debut as the company already showed this concept in Frankfurt last year.

The company has promised to have a production ready version by 2012, but that was probably for the Korean domestic market.

BMW To Reveal Green Concept Car At Geneva

BMW plans to unveil a new concept utilizing its Efficient Dynamics powertrain in Geneva which will probably be the recently spied PAS ( aka Progressive Activity Sedan).

The details about the concept are minimal, but considering BMW's penchant for unveiling near-production ready concepts, it's a distinct possibility. And with sales of the PAV expected to begin sometime next year, Geneva might be the first place BMW shows off its new concept.

Video: Ford Verve Sedan Concept

Ford has finally understood that small cars are the future, inthe US just as much as it already is in Europe and Asia. And showed the Ford Verve Sedan concept at Detroit last month, which was made its first appearance as a three-door hatchback in Frankfurt. Later a four-door sedan version of the Verve made its global debut at the Guanghou Motor Show in China.

The Ford Verve hatchback will likely be the new Ford Fiesta in Europe.

Rumored: Suzuki To Unveil V8-Powered Kizashi 3 At NY Show

There are some rumors that Japanese carmaker's Kizashi concepts, unveiled in Frankfurt and Tokyo last year, proved popular enough for Suzuki to move ahead with production plans and target a late 2009 roll-out.

But before it settles on what form the production version will take, Suzuki is reportedly preparing a third iteration to show at the New York Auto Show in March, and this one will be powered by a V8 driving all four wheels, compared to its turbodiesel and V6 predecessors.

Saab To Unveil 9-1 Concept At Geneva

It's confirmed by Saab designer Anthony that Lo has confirmed, that Saab will show its new Saab 9-1 Concept at the Geneva Motor Show. But not released a teaser image. Previous rumours hinted that London would receive the honour to debut the Volvo C30 competitor.

The Saab 9-1 Concept is based on the Opel Astra platform, and will compete with rivals such as the BMW 1 series, Volkswagen Golf and Volvo C30. Power is expected to come from a 1.4 liter turbocharged engine and a BioPower version will be available too. The car will make its world debut at Geneva in March.

Geneva 2008 Preview:IED Maserati Chicane Concept

We all know that the independent designers create exciting concepts for the auto shows. And the Chicane concept car is one of them. The car was designed by the graduate students at the Instituto Europeo di Design, which is coming to Geneva with this full-size concept Maserati.

The Chicane concept is a take on what the upcoming entry-level Maserati sports coupe could look like. Like the GranTurismo, the Chicane is a 2+2 with a front-mounted V8 driving the rear wheels, but while it retains certain Maserati design elements, the IED students have done away with some of the elegance of the GranTurismo in favor of more sportiness: at 4.4 meters long, it's some 400mm shorter than the Pininfarina-designed GT, and it ditches the chrome for a more menacing look.

The design for the Chicane was penned by Dmytro Zyubyairov (Ukraine) and Oscar Palladino (Italy), and was chosen from among 17 design proposals by a jury that included Maserati's and Fiat AG's chief designers. The IED display at the upcoming Geneva show will also include a video of a second Maserati concept called the Sfida, a 2+1 shooting brake, and three Toyota design projects.

Mitsubishi Gives Up Details On Prototype-S Concept

Remember the sketches of the car which we referred to as the Lancer Sportback last week. Well the car will be named Prototype-S when it debuts this March at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

The car itself is basically a production version of the Concept-Sportback that debuted at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, and the 5-door hatchback Lancer is destined for the European market according to Mitsubishi's press release. With this press release some details revealed which we didn't know last week.

The Prototype-S is powered by the same 2.0L turbo four-cylinder MIVEC engine that debuted earlier this month in the Lancer Ralliart. It produces 235 horsepower and 253 ft-lbs. of torque, mated with Mitsubishi's Twin Clutch SST transmission and sent to all four wheels via a full-time 4WD system using the automaker's Active Center Differential. That means, the Prototype-S is basically a hatchback version of the Lancer Ralliart

Toyota Australia To Unveil TRD Hilux In Brisbane

Last year in Melbourne, Toyota showed off a TRD Hilux concept truck. And now, Toyota announced that the TRD Hilux will be unveiling in February.

The TRD Hilux, will get the bodywork, wheels, and graphics you see above. Power numbers haven't been released yet for its 4.0L V6, but you can expect something in the general neighborhood of 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft underhood, along with upgraded brakes and suspension.

Detroi 2008: Lincoln MKT Concept

Lincoln shows at Detroit its new low riding CUV model. The car might hint at an MKX replacement. The MKT aims to be a long-distance cruiser with enough amenities to keep four urban adults comfortable and isolated from the world around them.

The MKT's styling picks up a few of MKZ-inspired cues, particularly the krill grille and sharp crease in the hood. Power comes courtesy of Ford's EcoBoost 3.5-liter turbocharged and direct-injected V6, producing 415 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.

Gallery: Lincoln MKT Concept

Detroit 2008: Ford Verve Sedan Concept

The Verve debuted as a three-door hatchback at the Frankfurt Motor Show and then got a trunk at a Chinese show last fall. It now comes to Detroit with a revised front fascia and taillights. The Verve certainly brings a new level of style to the small car market.

The rise in gas prices has increased demand for smaller, more fuel efficient cars in the American market. Ford has finally responded, or at least it will for 2010 when the production version of this concept finally goes on sale.

Gallery: Ford Verve Sedan Concept- The US Version

Detroit 2008: Buick Riviera Concept

The Buick Riviera concept debuted for the first time in the US at Detroit. The car debuted at the 2007 Shanghai Motor Show and was in fact designed and built by GM's Shanghai Tech Center.

This car shows that while Chinese manufacturers may largely have their heart set on creating cheap knock-offs of established designs from the west, Chinese designers are actually capable of creating some great designs.

Although GM refuses to say whether Buick will get a new coupe based on the Riviera, they do say that design elements of the car will appear on a new production Buicks to be unveiled later this year as well as other future models.

Gallery: Buick Riviera Concept

Detroit 2008: Hummer HX Concept

So here's the Hummer's Wrangler-competitor in concept form, complete with a 3.6-liter SIDI E85 FlexFuel engine which sends power to all four wheels via a six-speed auto 'box.

The HX is technically a convertible, meaning that the roof panels and modular rear can open or be stowed, while the interior instruments can be reconfigured depending on the type of driving you'll be doing.

Gallery: Hummer HX Concept

Detroit 2008: Cadillac Provoq Fuel Cell Concept

Following the introductions of the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Flextreme during 2007 auto show season, Cadillac is bringing forth a third design based on the E-Flex architecture. The Provoq Fuel Cell Concept. A luxury crossover design with environment friendly engine.

With updated Cadillac styling cues on a 180-inch long CUV body, it's stretched 10 inches longer than a Volt to allow comfortable seating for five passengers. The Provoq is built around GM's fifth-generation fuel cell stack combined with a 9kWh lithium ion battery pack. The electrical energy is used to power a 70kW AC motor driving the front wheels and a pair of 40kW hub motors at each rear corner. Like the other E-Flex vehicles, the Provoq has plug-in capability and the battery has enough capacity for about twenty miles of driving range. Combined with the 6kg of compressed hydrogen gas stored in its two tanks, the Provoq has a total range of about 300 miles.

Gallery: Cadillac Provoq Fuel Cell Concept

Officially Unveiled: Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept

The car you see above, the Saab 9-4X BioPower concept, was shown at Detroit. The 9-4x is badged as a concept, but the reality is that we will see new CUV probably sometime in 2009. The 9-4x will be based on an entirely new CUV architecture not connected with currently sold GM models .

The 9-4x carries some real Saab styling cues that tie it to the rest of the lineup. The Concept is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder enginer, typical Saab fare, that produces 245 HP/260 ft. lb. of torque on gas and 300 HP/295 ft. lb. of torque on ethanol. There's also an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that can split power between the front and rear axles, as well as between each side of the rear axle depending on which needs it most. -Press release after the jump...

Gallery: Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept

PRESS RELEASE:

INNOVATIVE 9-4X BIOPOWER CROSSOVER CONCEPTSIGNALS SAAB PRODUCT EXPANSION

DETROIT – The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show, confirms Saab's plans to enter the growing crossover segment with a dynamic, driver-focused vehicle inspired by Scandinavian design values and respect for the environment.

The concept's progressive design features are combined with a responsible, fun-to-drive appeal based on BioPower engine technology and a cutting-edge all-wheel-drive system.

"This concept is a clear statement of what our brand is about," said Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile Managing Director. "It is also an important next step in our plans to enter new market segments with distinctive product offerings."

The design of the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept reflects a Scandinavian principle of simplicity of form, with clean and uncluttered lines, free of any cladding, moldings or roof bars, and defining "ice-block" surface and lighting themes. The progressive frontal styling and interior design elements also draw inspiration from Saab's widely acclaimed Aero X concept. Innovative load-carrying solutions include a unique ski equipment stowage system, developed with mountain sports specialists Salomon. (Please see accompanying Salomon release.)

Optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel, t he four-cylinder, 2.0-liter BioPower turbo engine demonstrates Saab's commitment to "rightsizing" – achieving sufficient levels of performance with a smaller, more efficient engine – by delivering 300 horsepower (221 kW) and strong torque of 295 lb.-ft (400 Nm), together with substantially reduced CO 2 emissions on a source-to-wheel basis. (Please see accompanying Powertrain release). The key enabler for rightsizing is turbocharging technology, which Saab pioneered 30 years ago.

Mated to the industry-leading Saab XWD ("cross-wheel-drive") system, this advanced powertrain promises to make driving to a destination as enjoyable as the adventure itself.

The Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept was developed by a team headed by Anthony Lo, GM Europe's Director of Advanced Design, in cooperation with designers and engineers from the Saab Brand Center in Sweden. "We focused on incorporating design themes from the Aero X in a crossover execution, adding functional, lifestyle features to support the activities of customers using this type of vehicle," Lo said.

The driver-focused cockpit in the sporty, four-seater cabin features an Aero X-inspired "clear zone," with a flush-mounted starter button and infotainment controls, that sweeps up from the central console to the main display screen. Signature green lighting is used for all instrument illumination, while other subtle references to Saab's aviation heritage include the "altimeter" speed read-out scale and aircraft-shaped trim on the steering wheel. The panoramic glass roof is in harmony with a car designed to deliver the enjoyment of outdoor pursuits.

Saab designers worked with top Saab Salomon Big Mountain skiers to devise an innovative storage system for stowing skis and equipment inside the car. The rear cargo deck features a sliding floor with a fold-out aluminum ski holder, through which up to three pairs of skis and poles can be slotted. Boots are stowed in an underfloor, heated compartment and, for maximum practicality, the entire rear cargo area is covered in a waterproof and scratch-resistant rubber skin.

The compact, all-aluminum, four-cylinder BioPower engine combines the benefits of turbocharging, direct injection and variable valve timing for the first time with high-octane E85 fuel (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline). It's a green, rightsizing formula that gives strong power (300 horsepower [221 kW] and 295 lb.-ft. [400 Nm] of torque without the additional weight, size, fuel consumption and higher emissions of a larger, naturally aspirated engine offering similar performance.

Driver involvement is taken to a new level by the innovative all-wheel-drive system, Saab XWD, already available in the 9-3 range. Active management splits torque delivery between both the axles and the rear wheels, via an electronically controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD). This responsive system rewards the driver by giving an enhanced, "positive force" chassis balance. Overall, the Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept is a vivid demonstration of Saab's commitment to customers with outdoor leisure interests who seek a sporty driving experience that is in harmony with nature.

Saab 9-4X Concept: Technical Specifications

BioPower engine

1998 cc; four cylinders; 86.0 / 86.0 mm bore / stroke; aluminum cylinder head and block; DOHC, chain-driven. four valves per cylinder; twin counter-rotating balancer shafts; forged steel crankshaft; steel connecting rods; aluminum pistons; oil spray cooled; direct injection; VVT; inlet and exhaust sodium-filled exhaust valves; Saab engine management system; twin-scroll turbocharger; intercooled

BioPower engine data

* Max. boost pressure at maximum torque: 1.2 bar

* Compression ratio: 10.5: 1

* Max power (E85): 300 hp (221kW) @ 5400 rpm.

* Max. torque (E85): 400Nm (295 lb.-ft) @ 2600-5100 rpm

* Max power (gasoline): 245 hp (180 kW) @ 5300 rpm

* Max. torque (gasoline): 353 Nm (261 lb.-ft.) @ 2500- 5250 rpm

* Fuel consumption (combined): 10.5L /100km (22.4 mpg) on gasoline

Transmission

* Saab XWD ("cross wheel drive") all-wheel-drive system, electronic rear limited-slip differential (eLSD)

* Six-speed automatic transmission, steering wheel controls

Suspension

* Front: MacPherson struts, aluminum control arm and knuckle, anti-roll bar

* Rear: Multi-link, aluminum H-arm and knuckle, anti-roll bar

Steering

* Rack and pinion, hydraulic power assistance

Wheels, tires

* 21inch, 245/55R21

Brakes

* Hydraulic, dual circuit, vacuum booster

* Discs front / rear: 378 mm / 378 mm (all ventilated)

Performance data (preliminary)

* 0 - 100 kph: 8.0 sec

* 0 – 60 mph: 7.9 sec

* Top speed: 235 kph ( 146 mph)

* O 2 51 g / km (gasoline)