Info and some more photos of Nissan's Ellure Concept

Following the official press release, I have summarised below the most interesting bits:

While not intended as a preview of any upcoming production model, Ellure confirms Nissan's intention to be a strong player in the sedan segment for many years to come," explains Shiro Nakamura, senior vice president and chief creative officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

"Aerodynamics has become a critical element of design for all vehicles today, not just hybrids or EVs. We've used Ellure to explore subtle ways to reduce or eliminate body openings that can cause drag, such as the solid yet transparent coverings on the wheels and grilles, without impacting the beauty of the vehicle," said Nakamura.

The Ellure grille, with its large polished Nissan badge, was inspired by "Kamishino" Samurai formal coat. A nod to traditional Japanese design can also be seen in the Ellure's rear end, which is inspired by a "Torii" Shinto shrine gate.

The Ellure drivetrain is conceived as a supercharged 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control (one motor/two clutch design with lithium-ion battery) and 25 kW electric motor, matched with an Xtronic CVT and front-wheel drive. It would also include an independent suspension, regenerative braking, and advanced drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering to make sure the driving experience is as dynamic and rewarding as Ellure's physical properties.

[Source: Autoblog]

Nissan Ellure Concept Sedan just unveiled at LA!

Niiiiiiiice!  

[Source: Twitter]

Unveiling of Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet!!!

Prices start at $46,390! Niche product you see...

Oh, by the way... this is the 100th post! I would like to thank every single reader :-)

[Sources: Twitter & Autoblog]

Subaru previews next-gen Impreza at LA!!!

Subaru has teased us about a concept due to be presented at LA Auto Show... would this be a concept related to the upcoming FT-86, or perhaps the new Impereza (earlier post)...? OK, now we know. It's about the Impreza!

Subaru says the concept is an expression of its new global theme, "Confidence in Motion." Subaru claims that this design language is sporty, with more interior space and excellent aerodynamic stability, bla bla bla... The point is that this concept previews the automaker's future design language and brand strategy. My personal opinion is that it was about time, as the Impreza has suffered a lot from unsuccessful design practices.

Under the hood is Subaru's 2.0-liter boxer engine, mated to its Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. The company says this represents its next generation of powertrains.

Live photos of new Nissan Tiida (aka Versa)

We have already seen the actual car (earlier post), but now those live shots come from China and they are by far the best seen so far.

Nissan models to be unveiled at LA Auto Show

Nissan has already released a shot of the new Murano CrossCabriolet (earlier post) and we have already seen the new USDM Quest (R42H), which will share its platform with the new Elgrand (エルグランド) codenamed E52.

Of course, the updated GT-R (earlier post), along with the production version of Leaf, will be there but there is more... as Nissan will also display the Ellure Concept! The only thing known about this concept is the fact that it's a sedan and Nissan has described it this way in official press materials:

"Nissan's dramatic new-value sedan exploration, the Nissan Ellure, is designed to bring a higher level of progressive and distinctive expression to the segment – adding passion and emotion to traditional sedan efficiency."

I guess we will soon find out what's all about...

Toyota teases with interior shot of upcoming Prius V

The Toyota Prius page at Facebook has another teaser image of the upcoming Prius MPV/tall wagon thing. This time, it's a shot of the console. Hm, no bad at all...

Nip/tack for USDM Toyota Corolla

Prior to its debut at the LA Auto Show, Toyota has released images of the facelifted Corolla. The 2011 model gets a new front bumper,  grille and headlights, while at the back,new tail lights have been fitted. In the interior, don't expect much since only new colours and patterns will be offered. Oh, the Corolla S gets a new steering wheel… The oily bits remain unchanged.