VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT CC

VW Passat CC is a four-door sedan-fastback version of the Volkswagen Passat. It was revealed at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show January 2008. The North American market has the 2.0T I4 and 3.6 L VR6 engine as options. When it was introduced in 2008, Volkswagen expected to sell 300,000 cars over a period of seven years. The results have shown that 60 percent of the sales came from the U.S. market alone.

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Lincoln Continental

These days, Lincoln isn’t much more than a collection of rebadged Fords, but the Continental concept shows a way back to its past status as a real luxury carmaker.

Unveiled at the 2015 New York Auto Show, the Continental is a flagship sedan that would help restore Lincoln’s reputation if built. If you ever forget it’s a Lincoln, just look at the headlights and grille, which feature tiny repetitions of the brand’s logo.

On the inside, the Continental is just as luxurious as its classic predecessors. Standout features include 30-way adjustable seats, and a fully-reclining rear passenger seat that seems aimed at the Chinese market, where many buyers prefer to be driven rather than drive.

In a nod to efficiency, the Continental is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. It’s part of Ford’s ubiquitous EcoBoost family.

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Aston Martin DBX

An electric SUV from Aston Martin… why not? The Aston Martin DBX concept shocked (pun intended) the world at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show with that combination of decidedly un-Aston traits.

Despite its taller profile, the DBX manages to look as sleek as Aston’s traditional motors, and with one electric motor powering each wheel, it promises to be similarly exhilarating to drive should Aston use that setup in an expected production SUV due out in a few years.

The DBX shows that Aston Martin’s unique character can survive in a future where SUVs rule the luxury market, and tough emissions standards voce engineers to get more creative when it comes to powertrains.

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Toyota RAV4 2016

Eighth member of the automaker's ever-expanding gas/electric contingent, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid made its world debut in New York. This new greener variant was accompanied by other members of an updated/upgraded 2016 RAV4 family that will include a new SE trim grade.

Set to arrive in the fall, Toyota is aiming the 2016 RAV4 Hybrid at young active-lifestyle couples. While offering no specifics on the Hybrid Synergy Drive system that will be fitted to this compact crossover SUV, Toyota did say that in addition to earning superior EPA numbers, the new RAV4 Hybrid also will be quicker off the line and more powerful than its conventional RAV4 counterpart. The 2016 RAV4 Hybrid will be offered in XLE and Limited trim grades, both fitted with Toyota's On-Demand All-Wheel-Drive System with intelligence (AWD-i). In addition to six exterior colors including a new bespoke BLUE, the Hybrid variant will be available with unique 17-inch alloy wheels.

A fresher look and new features for all 2016 RAV4 models 

To help enhance the RAV4's appeal in what's become the hottest segment in today's automotive market, Toyota has made a number of significant changes to the entire lineup. All versions feature more aggressively styled front/rear fascia treatments, revised rocker sills and new skid plate garnish elements along with new wheel designs and colors. The RAV4 remix also adds the option to step up to full LED headlights and taillamps. 

Inside, the roomy RAV4 cabin gains new and more premium trim touches throughout complemented by detail upgrades like an additional front USB port and rear 12V powerpoint, reconfigured cupholders and a dedicated sunglasses holder. Front/rear parking sonar is standard across the board and all but the LE will come with SiriusXM All-Access Radio and a 3-month complimentary trial subscription -- although the entry-level model will now offer a Scout cellphone -- based navigation system. Other available new-for-2016 upgrades include a 4.2-inch multi-information display in the revised gauge cluster, 7.0-inch touchscreen for the Display Audio sound system and a 360-degree Bird's Eye View Monitor. The 2016 RAV4 also will offer the new Toyota Safety Sense system. Standard on the top-line Limited, it complements the existing Star System elements with a Pre-Collision/Pedestrian Pre-Collision System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Alert, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams. 

New RAV4 SE adds enthusiast appeal

Those seeking a RAV4 with more dynamic character will find it in the new SE which matches a sport-tuned suspension with a unique front bumper/lower grille, full LED lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels and available two-tone exterior treatment that pairs a Super White, Black Sand Pearl or Electric Storm Blue upper color with a Classic Silver Metallic lower body trim. Inside, the new RAV4 SE features the Limited's SofTex seat coverings and a black headliner while adding SE-spec instrument graphics and the 4.2-inch info display as well as steering-wheel mounted shifter paddles. 

Specific packaging details as well as pricing and EPA numbers for the entire 2016 Toyota RAV4 lineup will be realesed closer to their actual on-sale dates. 

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Subaru BRZ STI Performance Concept

A one-off show car with two purposes, the Subaru STI Performance Concept bowed in New York. It draws its inspiration and components from the hot Subaru BRZ GT300 competing in Japan's Super GT Series. Like that racer, this showpiece was created by Subaru Tecnica International, the automaker's official performance/performance parts division known as STI. In addition to serving as an exercise in future models, it heralds a new and significantly expanded role for STI in the American market. 

STI-spec cars on the way

While Subaru has yet to offer specific details on how STI fits into U.S. sales, it has confirmed that STI-tuned models will extend beyond the WRX STI. In the home market, STI currently produces versions of the BRZ and Forester as well as the iconic WRX and also has a large catalog of street/racing parts. Subaru says that upcoming STI-spec models for America could incorporate more extensive modifications from the factory, including suspension, performance, braking, chassis and aerodynamic upgrades. 

"At STI we know from our racing that to win, it is important not only to have high power, but also that all aspects of performance are balanced over the whole car," said Yoshio Hirakawa, president of Subaru Tecnica International. "When we achieve this balance, the driver feels that the car is easy to handle and reliable, and he can use it fully to the limits of its performance. Our plan is to produce cars and accessories that drivers can really enjoy."

While Subaru provided few specifics on the STI parts found on the Performance Concept, it did confirm this scintillating coupe is powered by the same 2.0-liter/350-horsepower turbocharged/intercooled boxer four found in the Subaru BRZ GT300 racer and ships that force to the rear wheels via a 6-speed sequential gearbox. In addition to its full STI body kit with a carbon fiber-enhanced front splitter, side sills, rear diffuser and fixed deck wing, the Performance Concept features upgraded STI brakes and lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels, a custom interior treatment with a bespoke instrumentation and an on-board performance data recorder.

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Porsche Cayenne S E-hybrid 2015

Set to debut this October in Paris, the 2015 Porsche Cayenne gets a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh that brings a bolder appearance, extra muscle and improved efficiency, thanks in part to a new plug-in variation. On sale here in November, U.S. buyers will be able to choose Cayenne Diesel, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo models in addition to the new Cayenne S E-Hybrid which replaces the existing S Hybrid.

Cleaner, meaner look

The 2015 Cayenne features an all-new front clip that adds tasteful edge while helping enhance aero qualities. In addition to recast fenders and hood, the Cayenne's reshaped grille and air intakes are complemented by new outboard "airblades" that improve flow to the intercoolers. Active air flaps - a first for the Cayenne - are positioned behind the center intake and automatically open and close to optimize thermal management. In the lighting department, the Diesel, S, and S E-Hybrid are fitted with bi-xenon headlamps while the Cayenne Turbo gets full LEDs and the Porsche Dynamic Light System. Out back, the 2015 Cayenne sports new 3D-look LED taillamps, a more deeply sculpted liftgate and a revised lower valance with integrated exhaust outlets. Although the Cayenne's 5-passenger cabin is largely carryover, it will have a new 918 Spyder-style multifunction steering wheel with shifter paddles and optional ventilation on the redesigned rear seat. 

More performance with better economy 

Motivation for Porsche's enthusiast-grade all-wheel-drive SUV will come in four distinct powertrains for 2015. All are turbocharged and backed by an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission as well as having an improved start/stop function. With the departure of the Cayenne V6, the Diesel S becomes the entry-level model. It returns with a 3.0-liter turbodiesel rated at 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The 2015 Cayenne S swaps its 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V8 for Porsche's new 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 also used in the Macan Turbo. Here, it makes 420 horses - up 20 from the V8 - and turns out 406 lb-ft of twist compared to the V8's 369 figure. Porsche says this new engine lets the 2015 Cayenne S sprint from 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds, 0.4-tick quicker than the current model, and top out at 160 mph. 

The first plug-in premium hybrid SUV to hit the market is the new Cayenne S E-Hybrid will arrive on the scene with significantly more capability than the S Hybrid it replaces. While its carryover 3.0-liter supercharged V6 continues to make 333 horsepower, output of its new electric motor rises from 47 to 95 e-ponies, which are fed by a new 10.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack with a plug-in feature. Total system stats rise to 416 horses/435 lb-ft of torque making the E-Hybrid nearly a second quicker to 60 mph. Unlike the S Hybrid, it also can operate in full EV mode -- at speeds up to 78 mph. 

Turbo tops the range

Topping the range, the 2015 Cayenne Turbo packs the familiar 4.8-liter twin-turbo V8 but the engine now develops 520 horses an 553 lb-ft of peak twist, up from the 500/533 numbers it makes in 2014. While the Turbo's top speed holds at 173 mph, its 0-60 mph time dips from 4.4 to 4.2 seconds - or 4.1 ticks when fitted with the optional Sport Chrono Package.  While final EPA figures are still pending, the additional aero enhancements, upgraded start/stop package and improved electric assist potential on the E-Hybrid are expected to boost EPA figures on all 2015 Cayenne models.  

As a final touch, Porsche says chassis tuning on the 2015 Cayenne has been tweaked to create an even wider degree of differentiation between the driver-selectable comfort and sport settings. Pricing for the 2015 Porsche Cayenne Diesel will start at $62,695 with the Cayenne S opening at $75,095. The Cayenne S E-Hybrid begins at $77,395 and the 2015 Porsche Cayenne Turbo commences at $114,595. 

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Audi TT and TTS Roadster 2016

Following the launch of the Audi TT/TTS Coupe models in Geneva, the 2016 Audi TT and TTS Roadsters are making their debut at the Paris Auto Show. While the open top variants are shown in European trim, both the roadster and coupes will go on sale in the U.S. next year

A 10 second transition

Cutting right to the sun-running chase on these new TT family members, each is crowned with a power-activated, fully-lined fabric soft top that lowers interior noise levels by up to 6dB compared to the current convertible models. Deployable in a mere 10 seconds at vehicle speeds of up to 31 mph, the top forms into a flat Z-shaped package that tucks neatly away into an aluminum tray when dropped. The design allows trunk capacity on these racy Roadsters to remain at 9.9 cu ft at all times

The soft-top transition also entailed other structural enhancements to the TT's new aluminum-intensive MQB modular unit body architecture to preserve its strength and rigidity. A steel reinforcing pillar-and-tube arrangement now resides inside the existing aluminum A-pillars and hidden steel rails work to shore up the car's side sills. More steel struts are used beneath the engine and luggage compartment areas while a bespoke structure between the passenger cabin and the trunk securely anchors a pair of fixed steel rollover hoops

Powertrains revamped

Like the TT/TTS Coupes, their new Roadster counterparts will offer a trio of new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged/direct-injected engines with greater output than the units they replace. The gas-burning TFSI in the new TT Roadster kicks out 227 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque while the unit in the TTS drop top boasts 306 ponies and 281 lb-ft of twist. Both of those engines are expected to head here as well. A 181-horse Euro-spec TDI turbodiesel that makes a stout 281 lb-ft of torque appears less likely to make the Atlantic crossing, at least at launch. Home market buyers also will be able to choose between a 6-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift 6-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic as well as front- or Quattro all-wheel drive configurations, the latter being standard issue on the TTS Roadster

Beyond that, the new Audi TT and TTS Roadsters share all the basic cosmetic, technological and creature features found in the new Coupes. That includes everything from edgier exterior styling and more sophisticated interior treatments - including Audi's modular virtual cockpit configuration - to the latest iteration of Audi's multi-mode drive select system and primo options like MMI Navigation plus with a Wi-Fi hotspot, Bang & Olufsen premium audio, Audi Side Assist and Active Lane Assist

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Honda FCV concept

Offering the best look yet at a production version of the Honda FCV that will bow in 2016, the Japanese automaker also announced several new powertrains and models expected between now and 2018. In addition to selling this fuel cell vehicle, Honda will also add to its roster of hybrids, plug-in and pure EVs

 the recast FCV Concept, which made it global debut in Japan last fall, has a cleaner overall appearance, with the most prominent differences evident in the trimmer and more elegantly sculpted front and rear fascias. It also sports a tidier profile view that features additional real-world touches like conventional side mirrors and a traditional wheel cutout in the rear fender. While we suspect the show car's avant-garde steering wheel may not make the final cut, most of the rest of the design elements on its well-finished 5-passenger cabin appear to be production ready. Details are scant on the vehicle's electric motors, but Honda's FCV is still slated to travel over 300 miles on a single tank of hydrogen and have a refueling time of roughly three minutes on a standard 70MPa pressure line

More Hybrids, Plug-ins and BEVs ahead 

Honda provided plenty of good news for those seeking less-radical cleaner, greener alternatives, as well. Over the course of the next three years, it will introduce a host of new vehicles that further leverage the firm's Earth Dreams Technology. At least one new plug-in hybrid and one new battery-electric vehicle are currently waiting in the wings and the automaker also plans to ramp up applications of its current two-motor and three-motor conventional hybrid systems to increase their market penetration here in the U.S. Finally, by the end of 2015, Honda's plant in Anna, Ohio, will begin rolling out a new strain of 4-cylinder VTEC Turbo engines that will deliver impressive performance with exceptional fuel economy

On a more conventional front, the Honda execs confirmed that after the spring launch of the new 2016 Honda HR-V subcompact crossover, a fully redesigned 8-passener Honda Pilot SUV will go on sale followed by an all-new Ridgeline pickup in 2016

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Ford Police Interceptor Utility adds cool tech 2016

the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility stormed onto the show scene in Chicago - the city where it will be built. Already accounting for 55 percent of the law enforcement vehicle market, this updated variation on the theme takes the well-proven formula to a new level. Functional changes were made using input from the Ford Police Advisory Board to ensure it can handle the extreme demands of daily police duty while becoming more user-friendly

The visual remake for the 2016 Interceptor Utility includes Explorer-style fascia treatments including the bolder grille treatment and new lighting elements, which put a more sophisticated spin on the Police-spec package. Ford notes the 2016 Interceptor offers no less than 25 different configurations, adding that all are better integrated to tidy up the design while creating "a stealthier look for patrol duty." Inside, the recast dash that's easier on the eyes and hands has new gauges and a redesigned center stack with a 4.0-inch screen linked to a rearview camera with washer. In addition to an upgraded electrical system that better distributes current loads, the Interceptor Utility introduces an exclusive Surveillance Mode option that warns the driver if someone is approaching and automatically raises the window and locks all the doors

As in the past, the new 2016 Police Interceptor Utility offers the choice of a custom-calibrated 3.7-liter/304-horsepower Ti-VCT V6 or optional 3.5-liter/350-horse EcoBoost V6, both paired with a heavy duty 6-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Rounding out the mix are an enforcement-optimized suspension, brakes, 18-inch wheel/tire package and heavy duty cooling system. For the ultimate in personalization, over 125 option packages allow the further fitment of everything from reprogrammable steering wheel controls and a red/white dome light toggle to Level III ballistic shields mounted in the doors. Expect to see the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility turn up in a rearview mirror near you starting this summer

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Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom 2015

Offering upscale flair to buyers facing real-world budgetary constraints, the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom is set to join the lineup later this spring. "The economic recovery has led to booming sales of high-end pickups like the Silverado High Country," said Sandor Piszar, marketing director for Chevy Trucks at the new Custom's official reveal in Chicago. But there are also millions of customers in the heart of the market who want a great looking, well-equipped truck at an affordable price. The Silverado Custom is a truck they can be proud to own and proud to drive

Based on a double-cab Silverado 1500 LS, the Custom includes chrome bumpers, mirror caps and door handles, 20-inch aluminum wheels and a body-color filler panel above the front bumper. Inside, the Silverado Custom adds a 40/20/40 cloth front seat, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows/door locks, and Chevy MyLink with 4G LTE WiFi connectivity

The new 2015 Chevy Silverado 1500 Custom will be available in both rear-drive and 4-wheel drive configurations and offer the choice of the standard 285-horsepower/4.3-liter V6 or the 335-horse/5.3-liter V8 -- which Chevy believes will be the overwhelming choice among Silverado Custom buyers. Pricing for a V6 Silverado Custom starts at $33,770 with the 2WD V8 version opening at $34,015 (both when fitted with color-keyed carpets) while a similarly equipped 4WD V8 begins at $38,995

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Mercedes-Benz 550 SL Mille Miglia 417 bows 2015

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the production sports car win by a Mercedes-Benz 300SL in Italy's grueling 1955 Mille Miglia (1,000 mile) road race, the German automaker debuts in Geneva  a limited edition model called the "Mille Miglia 417" that will go on sale in the U.S. later this fall. The original 300SL that won its class in 1955 was piloted by American John Fitch and left the starting gate at 4:17 a.m. in the morning with co-driver Kurt Gessl aboard. Fitch SL's fifth overall finish and class victory has been overshadowed by the record run by Sterling Moss and Denis Jenkinson, which completed the 1,000 road race from Brescia to Rome and back in 10 hours. That duo's overall win came in a competition-only Mercedes-Benz SLR

The anniversary model is based on the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SL550 coupe equipped with a 429-horsepower twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 engine mated to a 7-speed transmission. Primarily an appearance package, the Special Edition "Mille Miglia 417" is painted black like Fitch's 300SL Gullwing, but it's a matte finish with contrasting red on the front and rear spoilers, brake calipers and rims on the sport alloy wheels, which measure 19-inches in the front and 20-inches in the rear

Cabin highlights

Interior upgrades include AMG Line sport seats, black center console with contrasting red inlays and edging as well as headrests embossed and embroidered with "SL Mille Miglia." Red is also used to outline the door panels and arm rests, while red seatbelts contrast with the black leather seating. The sport steering wheel is wrapped in red and black Nappa leather. Other trim bits are finished in matte carbon, while the black floor mats are edged in red and embroidered with a "1000 Miglia" logo

The SL Special Edition "Mille Miglia 417" will be available as an SL550 in the U.S.  in the fall of 2015, and pricing will be announced closer to the market launch. Current starting price on the standard 2015 Mercedes-Benz SL550 is about $107,000

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Lotus Evora 400 U.S. bound 2016

British sports car maker Lotus has taken the wraps off the next generation mid-engine Evora 2+2  and announced that following the European launch this summer, will hit the North American market in the fall as a 2016 model.  Called the Lotus Evora 400, it is the fastest production Lotus ever, according to the company. The 400 refers to the engine output, which sees the previous Evora S 3.5-liter V-6 fitted with a new supercharger that boosts it from 345 to 400 horsepower. Torque has been increased from 295 to 302 lb-ft with maximum torque available from 3,500 to 6,500 rpm

With a top speed of 186 mph, the Evora 400 takes just 4.1 seconds to accelerate from 0-60 mph and has beat the previous production car lap time set by the Evora S on the company's test track at Hethel, England, by 6 seconds. In addition to the engine upgrades, the 2016 Lotus Evora 400 features a new aluminum chassis, updated interior and lightweight composite body panels that give the car a new look

Faster and lighter

In addition to being faster than the model it replaces, it's lighter with the new design shaving 45 pounds from the previous model even though content has been increased. "We have always said that to make a car better, you must make it faster and lighter," said Jean-Marc Gales, CEO for Group Lotus. We have achieved this, of course, but we didn't stop there, as considerable number of changes in the interior, chassis, engine and body design have warranted emphatically the title of a new Lotus Evora

The new Evora 400 features new styling that includes a bolder face with larger cooling inlets and LED daytime running lights. At the rear, the Evora benefits from a new bumper, lightweight composite rear diffuser and a three-element wing. The car has a more aggressive stance and appears lower, wider and more planted on the road. Overall length has increased 1.4 inches and yet a shorter front overhang reduces the approach angle from 11.5 to 10 degrees

Cabin improvements

Among the upgrades to the interior, first and foremost, Lotus had made the Evora easier to get in and out of, thanks to narrower and lower sills as well as thinner inside door panels. All new sport seats are lighter, more aggressively bolstered and supportive. The new bonded aluminum chassis not only has thinner sills without sacrificing stiffness, but also allows for a slightly larger rear seating area that's 11 inches wider. The Evora 400 has three new trim levels including upgrades to full Alcantara or Scottish leather, each package featuring specific detailing

In addition to an all-new dash layout, revised instrument cluster and a lightweight forged aluminum sport steering wheel, the Evora 400 benefits from an all-new climate control system that provides greater airflow and more operator control. Other changes include the incorporation of a stop/start button and the introduction of a new high-end sound system. Lotus, which produces about 45 cars per week, will ramp production up to 70 per week to accommodate the demand for the Evora 400. Pricing will be announced closer to its launch date

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Infiniti QX30 Concept foretells the future

Making its global debut in Geneva, the Infiniti QX30 Concept provides a look at what the automaker plans for a versatile new vehicle that can bolster its market position on a global basis. "The QX30 Concept foreshadows an entry in the premium compact segment that provides a stylish alternative to the existing choices," said Roland Krueger, Infiniti President and CEO. It embodies our conviction to give customers the freedom to go wherever they want, whenever they want - in a style that turns heads and makes a statement, in a way that expresses their individualized character

A bolder variation on the Q30 Concept

The Q30 Concept was like a panther, lithe and slender. We transformed the QX30 Concept into a mountain lion, strong and muscular," said Alfonso Albaisa, Infiniti Executive Design Director. "The QX30 Concept design conveys a gritty sense of durability but tough doesn't mean rough. We've retained a sense of artistry throughout, even in the most functional of parts

Although the two vehicles are virtually identical in size, the QX30 is about 1.2 inches taller and has 7.6-inches of ground clearance. The fascia treatments on the QX30 also display a more aggressively robust character, with larger flared air intakes/exhaust outlets set off with satin chrome accent elements and matte carbon trim found on the door-sill kick plates and wheel-arch surrounds as well as lower bumpers and stylized faux skid plates. The QX30 wears 21-inch tires wrapped around distinctive two-tone alloys with a 3D twisted-spoke design that interweaves milled aluminum and matte rubber. Even the integrated roof rack that sits over the full panoramic glass roof reflects a unique sense of sculpted style

Inside, the QX30 Concept also shows a heavy Q30 design influence but complements bespoke detail elements with a darker motif that matches brown Connolly leather centers with blue quilted leather bolsters set off with blue contrast stitching and customizable LED accent lighting. That color combo is reprised in its premium leather-weave carpet. Here, too, each of the four individual seats features a slim-line look that adds to the feeling of inner space. To bolster that interconnected experience for all aboard, the QX30 Concept also is fitted with the latest Infiniti InTouch infotainment system and app set

Like the Q30 Concept, the QX30 Concept is designed to accept a wide variety of powertrain choices. In this case, Infiniti fitted a 2.0-liter turbocharged/direct-injected 4-cylinder gasoline engine matched with a 7-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front or all four wheels. While stopping short of further details, it's believed the QX30 will share the same Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class platform/powertrain elements that will be used in the production Infiniti QX30

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