The all-new 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander comes with two-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive and is offered with a choice of two engine, gasoline and diesel. In addition, the all-new Outlander are equipped with an “eco-friendly driving system” that notifies drivers when they are driving at maximum efficiency.

The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with some advanced safety technologies, which include Forward Collision Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control System and Lane Departure Warning System.

Interior, the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander features glossy black instrument panels, soft-touch dashboard trim material and silver accents decorated switches.

The all-new Outlander will be launched first in Russia in this summer and then Europe, Japan, Oceania, China and North America.

All-New 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander (First official image)

In addition to its fuel efficiency and CO₂ emission levels that are among the best in its class, other features distinguishing the all-new Outlander include enhanced levels of safety from the adoption of advanced safety technologies and a user-friendly interior that reflects pure quality.

The all-new Outlander will be launched first in Russia this summer, after which it will make its debut in European, Japanese, Oceania, Chinese and North American markets.

During fiscal 2012 Mitsubishi Motors will also be adding to its lineup an EV-based Outlander model which will use a plug-in system derived from MMC’s already existing EV technology.

New Outlander Features

1.    Outstanding environmental performance with fuel consumption and CO₂ emission levels that are among the best in its class

The European-market specification Outlander is offered with a choice of gasoline and diesel engines. Gasoline models are powered by the 4J11 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder SOHC MIVEC*¹ engine which employees an all-new valvetrain. Diesel models use the 4N14 2.2-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged MIVEC engine with a very low compression ratio of 14.9:1 that meets stringent European diesel emission regulations.

The diesel Outlander (2WD drivetrain, 4N14 engine with 6-speed manual transmission) will provide a superior level of environmental performance with target CO₂ emissions of under 130 g/km*² thanks to MMC’s Auto Stop&Go idle-stop system and its lighter body that stems from optimization of the body structure, the use of high-tensile strength paneling and from improved aerodynamics. Furthermore, the new Outlander will be equipped with an “eco-friendly driving system” that notifies the driver when he or she is driving at maximum efficiency. With this system, the driver can choose to drive at maximum efficiency to enhance actual fuel consumption of the vehicle.

*1: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system (named for engines fitted with Mitsubishi Motors’ variable valve timing system).

*2: Target for European model that is subject to final homologation. Models for other countries may differ according to local homologation.

2.    Enhanced levels of safety borne from advanced safety technologies

The new Outlander offers outstanding safety through the use of the following advanced safety technologies:

• FCM (Forward Collision Mitigation System): Detects obstacles on the road ahead of the car and automatically applies the brakes to prevent a collision.
• ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control System): Operates to maintain a safe distance between the car in front even at very low speeds experienced in heavy traffic congestion.
• LDW (Lane Departure Warning System): Functions to warn the driver that their vehicle is about to depart from its lane.

3.    High-quality, user-friendly interior

• The new Outlander’s interior expresses quality with the use of a glossy black instrument panel, the switches decorated with silver accents and the use of soft-touch dashboard trim material. The new Outlander also features easily-operable steering wheel controls together with high-resolution and easy-to-read instrument displays.
• The comfortable second- and third-row seats can be easily configured to provide a number of seating patterns and also a long luggage space with a flat floor.
• A power-operated tailgate facilitates loading and unloading.

The 2013 CX-5 is equipped with a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine, which delivers 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.  Available with a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle has a 2,000-pound towing capacity.  Mazda’s first vehicle fully engrained with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, CX-5 offers unprecedented non-hybrid best-in-class fuel economy for all transmission and drivetrain configurations.

Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models equipped with the standard SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission are rated with an estimated fuel economy of 26 city/35 highway/29 combined mpg – the highest highway fuel economy rating of any SUV in North America, including hybrids. When equipped with the optional SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, FWD models receive an mpg rating of 26 city/32 highway/29 combined.  SKYACTIV-Drive is standard on AWD models, which return an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 25 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg.

The 2013 Mazda CX-5 has the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) started at $20,695 and the release date is expected to be in early Spring 2012.

2013 Mazda CX-5 pictures – Hi-res. Images

CHICAGO (February 8, 2012) – The latest arrival to the Zoom-Zoom family and the first to fully incorporate the full suite of SKYACTIV® technologies, the all-new 2013 CX-5 has earned Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) its 16th overall Drivers’ Choice Award, as announced by MotorWeek at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Expected to go on sale in early Spring 2012, the compact crossover SUV offers the best highway fuel economy of any SUV sold in North America at 35 miles per gallon (mpg) and features class-leading overall fuel economy performance versus its direct competitors.

“The 2013 CX-5 is entering the fiercely competitive SUV market with a very pronounced ‘knock’ on the door,”

- said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO.

“To be honored with an award naming CX-5 the best of its segment exemplifies Mazda’s spirit for creating purposeful vehicles for consumers who expect nothing less than passion, performance and precision in their new car.”

“The CX-5 has both the looks and the fun-to-drive nature we’ve come to expect from Mazda,”

- added John Davis, host, MotorWeek.

“Add in best-in-class fuel economy and available 19-inch wheels and you’ve got a compact crossover SUV that’s as practical to own as it is stunning to look at, making it a real winner.”

The 2013 CX-5 is equipped with a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine, which features a 13:1 compression ratio – the highest of any mass-produced car in the world – and delivers 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Available with a SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission or SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle has a 2,000-pound towing capacity as well as an all-new active torque split all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Mazda’s first vehicle fully engrained with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY, the brand’s breakthrough engineering and manufacturing approach to its next generation of vehicles, CX-5 offers unprecedented non-hybrid best-in-class fuel economy for all transmission and drivetrain configurations.

Front-wheel-drive (FWD) models equipped with the standard SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission are EPA rated with an estimated fuel economy of 26 city/35 highway/29 combined mpg – the highest highway fuel economy rating of any SUV in North America, including hybrids. When equipped with the optional SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic transmission, FWD models receive an mpg rating of 26 city/32 highway/29 combined. SKYACTIV-Drive is standard on AWD models, which return an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 25 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg.

Pricing for the all-new 2013 CX-5 starts at $20,695 MSRP.
***
Produced by Maryland Public Television, MotorWeek debuted in 1981 and is television’s longest-running automotive series, airing weekly via PBS, Velocity and Spanish-language V-me channels nationwide. The Drivers’ Choice Awards were first announced in 1983, with the Mazda 626 being named the Best Import 4-Door that year. Multiple Mazdas have been named the “Best” vehicle in the Hatchback, Small Car, Minivan, Sports Car and Convertible categories as well as the overall Best of the Year category. For more information on MotorWeek and the Drivers’ Choice Awards, visit www.motorweek.org.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

SKYACTIV is a registered trademark of Mazda Motor Corporation (MC).

Starting price is manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for lowest trim level. MSRP does not include $795 destination charge (Alaska $840), title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

The award comes on the heels of strong sales results from Subaru.  The brand set a sales record in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% over the previous year.

“It is an honor to receive the award for best compact car from MotorWeek,”

- Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc.

“We are very excited about the all-new Impreza and we feel it is a game-changer for Subaru in the compact segment.  In fact, Impreza sales in January were up 175-percent. We are pleased to bring our customers a car that packages safety, fun and function.”

All new for 2012, the Subaru Impreza is equipped as standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Powered by a 148-hp 2.0-liter Boxer engine, the 2012 Impreza comes with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or the enhanced, second-generation Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission).  The 2012 Impreza offers the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in America, with EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway for models with the CVT.

“With its 2012 re-design, we think the Subaru Impreza is primed for prime time,”

- said John Davis, MotorWeek host.

“No other compact comes close to the Impreza’s mix of standard all-wheel-drive, upscale interior, and near bargain pricing.  Add in a fun-to-drive steering feel, plus a big jump in fuel economy, and you’ve got a four-season winner.”

2012 Subaru Impreza Sedan pictures – Hi-res. Images

Featuring the return of a unibody construction that was utilized on the 2nd generation Pathfinder, the next-generation Nissan Pathfinder offers quiet, comfortable interior which includes leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, heated second row seats, heated steering wheel, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a Bose audio system.  In addition, the crossover features a Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button ignition, tri-zone climate control, GPS navigation, Bluetooth/iPod connectivity and an entertainment system for rear seats.

Nissan also showcased the Pathfinder second row, which according to Nissan is the “roomiest 2nd rows in its class”.  The third row features a large rear door opening, along with the 5.5 inches of second row and folding seat design, making it so easy to access or exit to the third row.

Nissan Pathfinder Concept was unveiled at the 2012 NAIAS and the release date for the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder is expected to be in the Fall 2012.

See “Press Release” for more details

Nisan Pathfinder Concept exterior and interior pictures – Hi-res. Images

When the Nissan Pathfinder was originally introduced more than a quarter century ago, it became known as the perfect family adventure vehicle. With each successive generation, Pathfinder has remained true to that original premise, while evolving to meet the changing needs of its owners. Now, Pathfinder adds an unprecedented level of premium style, comfort and thoughtful technology – including a dramatic new aerodynamic exterior design and innovative, flexible interior – as it gets ready to debut this fall in an all-new 4th generation Pathfinder design. A special preview of the new 2013 model, the Pathfinder Concept, showcases what is nothing less than Pathfinder re-imagined.

“As Nissan has expanded its range of adventure-ready SUVs to include Armada, Xterra, Murano, Rogue and JUKE, Pathfinder maintains its very important position in the heart of the lineup and the market – as a right-size, 3-row/7-passenger SUV with the seating and cargo capacity that growing families need,”

- said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

“As families spend more time in their SUVs everyday as well as on weekends, the next-gen Pathfinder is stepping up with enhanced comfort, innovative technology, increased fuel efficiency, and most importantly, more flexibility for the family.”

A Mid-Size SUV with Full-Size Comfort
As previewed in the Pathfinder Concept, one of the biggest changes to the upcoming Pathfinder design is the return to a unibody platform (also utilized on the second generation Pathfinder), which offers numerous benefits including a flat floor for enhanced interior packaging flexibility.

“The Pathfinder Concept demonstrates that when it comes to modern interior design, you can have it all – premium features, versatility and user-friendly technology,”

- said Castignetti.

“By giving equal priority to both the driver and each and every passenger – including those in the 3rd row – we’ve created a premium driving experience and environment for all.”

Starting with a look at its premium features, the Pathfinder Concept’s quiet, comfortable interior includes rich leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated and cooled front seats, heated 2nd row seats, heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start and multiple user memory settings, and an advanced Bose® Audio System with 13 speakers.

The Pathfinder Concept’s unique versatility comes to life in the design of the 2nd and 3rd rows. In addition to what is expected to be among the roomiest 2nd rows in its class, it also features exceptional 3rd row access – thanks to large rear door openings, 5.5 inches of 2nd row seat travel, and forward folding seat design for ease of entry and exit to the 3rd row. The 60/40-split 2nd row features an innovative “child seat mode” allowing forward movement and access to the 3rdrow with a child safety seat remaining securely in place (on the 40 percent split-fold side).

“One of the dilemmas facing families with both young children and infants/toddlers is getting the older kids in the 3rd row without having to remove a child seat mounted in the 2nd row. This innovative design solves that issue,”

- explained Castignetti.

“Plus, with the extensive 2nd row seat travel, it’s easy to adjust legroom or accommodate cargo spontaneously as needed.”

The 3rd row seat is a 50/50 split folding design, offering added cargo flexibility, and it also reclines for greater passenger comfort. Both the 2nd row and 3rd row seats fold flat for optimal cargo capacity and there is additional under floor storage in the rear cargo area.

Thoughtful technology is also found throughout the Pathfinder Concept interior, starting with the instrument panel, which includes an advanced drive-assist display directly in front of the driver – along with a large multifunction IT display in the center of the dash, Nissan Navigation System with real-time traffic and weather information and Zagat Survey® restaurant guide, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio and RearView Monitor.

The Pathfinder Concept also features Nissan’s advanced Around View™ Monitor, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the vehicle. Other technology includes a tri-zone climate control system, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, power rear liftgate, iPod® integration, and tri-zone entertainment system with 2nd row headrest-mounted DVD display screens. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) includes an individual tire pressure display and EasyFill Tire Assist – similar to that introduced on the Nissan Quest –that provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. A remote engine start function allows the climate control system to warm up or cool down the interior prior to driving.

Stunning New Exterior Design, Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
Along with the enhanced interior flexibility, the new unibody platform provided the designers an opportunity to create a more aerodynamic exterior without compromising headroom or cargo capacity. Moving upscale in look, the new exterior styling presents a smart fusion of signature Nissan styling cues and dynamic strength.

The look is adventure-ready with wheel-oriented muscular fenders and a strong, stable stance. The upper body features an open cabin with a low beltline and thin A- and D-pillars, which flow smoothly into the rugged, durable-looking lower body. The Pathfinder Concept utilizes front and rear spoilers, rear tire deflectors and rear suspension fairings to help achieve what is expected to be among the best aerodynamic performance in the segment. In one other important measurement, the next-gen Pathfinder is expected to weigh substantially less than the previous body-on-frame design, which helps contribute to the enhanced fuel economy performance.

Other exterior details include a wide chrome grille and large aerodynamic headlights, recessed front windshield wipers, chrome door handles and large rear combination lights. A panoramic dual-panel moonroof, with sliding opening front panel and fixed rear glass panel which extends over the 2nd and 3rd rows, combines with the large windows to create an open, airy interior environment.

“With its new aerodynamically optimized shape, the styling is a major step forward in the evolution of the SUV – retaining its people and cargo hauling utility without looking quite so utilitarian,”

- said Castignetti.

“It’s fitting that a vehicle that tackles adventures in a whole new way also now completely looks the part.”

Addressing buyers’ desire for more efficiency in every aspect of their lives, the Pathfinder powertrain utilizes a refined V6 engine mated to a next-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to provide an expected 25 percent increase in combined City/Highway fuel economy (over the previous V6-equipped model). The Pathfinder Concept also features an intuitive four-wheel drive system and a towing capacity comparable to the leaders in the segment.

The new engine and CVT combination offers improved efficiency, while maintaining nearly the same horsepower as the previous generation’s larger displacement V6, and delivers responsive acceleration in a variety of conditions. It also retains its ability to tow boats, jet skis, trailers and a variety of other recreational gear, and its role as an excellent vehicle for unfavorable driving conditions with four-wheel drive.

“The new Pathfinder carries on the tradition of the previous generations of adventure-ready Pathfinders that have come before – offering a new level of family enjoyment and engagement that is just right for today’s real-world, everyday uses,”

- concluded Castignetti.

“After more than 25 years, Pathfinder is ready to tackle new terrain and the new challenges of modern family lives.”

Four greenest Honda vehicles of 2012 are Honda Civic Natural Gas, Honda Insight, Honda Civic Hybrid and Honda CR-Z.  The Civic Natural Gas tied for second place on the list.

In addition, Honda Insight hybrid, Honda Fit and Odyssey minivan were also selected for “greener choices of 2012″ within their respective classes.  This is the fourteen consecutive year that Honda vehicles have been voted in the top 12.

See “Press Release” for all vehicles listed on “Greenest Vehicles of 2012″ List

Four Honda Vehicles on ACEEE’s “Greenest Vehicles of 2012″ List

02/07/2012 – TORRANCE, Calif. A total of seven Honda brand vehicles earned recognition from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), including four Honda vehicles named the “greenest vehicles of 2012.” In the annual ACEEE’s “Green Book® Online”ranking of environmentally responsible vehicles, the near-zero emissions natural gas-powered Civic Natural Gas five-passenger sedan tied for second place, with the Insight, Civic Hybrid and CR-Z also included on the list of ACEEE’s 12 most environmentally responsible vehicles available to the public.

The Insight hybrid, the compact Fit and the Odyssey minivan were also named as “greener choices of 2012″ within their respective classes. This is the 14th straight year that multiple Honda vehicles have been named in the top 12.

“Honda is honored to have our natural gas vehicle and our hybrid and gasoline-powered vehicles among ACEEE’s ‘greenest’ and ‘greener’ choices,”

- said Steven Center, vice president of the Environmental Business Development Office at American Honda.

“The ACEEE’s annual recognition of Honda’s fuel-efficient vehicles further validates our commitment to create a cleaner, more energy-efficient and sustainable transportation future.”

The ACEEE ranking system uses a singular measure that incorporates fuel economy and health-related pollution impacts plus global warming and upstream emissions. All vehicles are analyzed and given a “Green Score” which is used to rank a vehicle’s total environmental performance, including a list of the 12 “greenest” and 12 “meanest” vehicles along with a ranking of greenest vehicles by segment.

Named as one of the list’s ‘greenest vehicles,’ the Civic Natural Gas is the only OEM-built, dedicated CNG passenger car assembled in the U.S. and the only vehicle certified by the EPA to meet both Federal Tier 2 Bin 2 and Inherently Low Emission Vehicle (ILEV) zero evaporative emission certification standards. Honda recently announced the expansion of Civic Natural Gas retail sales to 197 dealers in 36 states. The increased availability of the Civic Natural Gas helps bring inherently clean-burning natural gas technology to an even broader audience while also supporting diversity in transportation energy resources. Featuring new styling, enhanced feature content and increased fuel economy, the redesigned 2012 Civic Natural Gas can now be equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System featuring an exclusive database of publicly accessible Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refueling stations across the United States.

Honda’s Environmental Leadership
Honda has a long history of environmental innovation, including the retail introduction of America’s first hybrid (1999 Honda Insight), delivery of the first fuel-cell electric vehicle in the U.S. (2002 Honda FCX) and the first gasoline-powered vehicles in the hands of consumers to meet stricter emissions standards, including: the 1996 Honda Civic, the first gasoline Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV); the 1998 Honda Accord, the first gasoline Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV); the 2000 Honda Accord, the first gasoline Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV); and the 2001 Civic Natural Gas, the first vehicle to quality as an Advanced Technology Partial-Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV). The Honda Fit EV and the Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid, both coming soon, will be the next critical steps in Honda’s portfolio approach to alternative fueled vehicles.

ACEEE’s Green Book® Online — GREENEST VEHICLES OF 2012