The Non-Subaru New Car News Thread #1

Alpha1 · 09-02-2003, 07:05 PM

Subaru, Saab, BMW, VW/Audi etc... will be sharing the compact and premium compact markets with the new Volvo S40. Volvo may have a winner with this car, if they have a quality feel. The storage compartment behind the floating console is one of the better design features I have seen on any new car. I am always annoyed by where my wifes shoulder bags end up while riding with her in our cars, the ability to stow bags in this area is innovated to say the least. Volvo has aways been a favorite brand amongst the educated female market, with their reputation of safety minded products. Interesting car

http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content...._code=04498892

Alpha1 · 09-03-2003, 09:56 PM

The forthcoming VW golf 5, is a very handsome car, frames 47 & 48 show GTI body cladding, This car should be successful internationally. I hope Subaru effectively counters this Golf 5 launch with the next generation Impreza.

http://vwvortex.rely.net/gallery/gal...wagen/Golf%20V

Alpha1 · 09-09-2003, 11:23 PM

The new Impreza needs to be this handsome.

http://www.velocidad-maxima.com/foru...ead.php?t=7612

Alpha1 · 09-15-2003, 06:37 PM

GTI will lead fifth generation VW Golf into U.S. market

By RALPH KISIEL | Automotive News

FRANKFURT - In a bid to boost Golf sales when the redesigned, fifth generation bows in the United States, Volkswagen of America Inc. will introduce the sportier, more powerful GTI version rather than the traditional sedan.

The GTI, with a turbocharged, 2.0-liter inline-four that makes 200 hp, is slated to debut in the United States in spring or summer 2005.

The Golf, including the GTI model, is longer, wider and roomier than its predecessor.

The GTI's front end features the same dramatic V shape that encompasses the hood, grille and bumper of the Concept R, a VW roadster that was unveiled here last week. This style element will be carried over to all new VW models, said Gerd Klauss, president of Volkswagen of America Inc.

The new GTI has a more powerful, sporty appearance than the previous generation.

This is the first time that VW has tried to better differentiate the GTI from the four-door and two-door Golfs.

Jens Neumann, Volkswagen AG board member for North American strategy, said he expects to sell at least 15,000 GTIs a year in the United States, plus 15,000 to 20,000 four-door Golfs.

VW of America sold a combined 20,490 Golf and GTI models through August of this year in the United States, down from 22,052 a year ago.

Audi of America Inc. also expects to introduce its entry-level car, the A3 five-door hatchback, in summer 2005. Audi has three A3 models on sale in Europe, but they are all three-door hatchback models.

Len Hunt, Audi of America vice president, said, "Nobody has seen the A3 version that is coming to us in summer 2004."

The five-door hatchback probably will be equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine, Hunt says.

Audi of America is willing to wait for the five-door version because it is a larger car that should be more appealing in the United States, he says.

Audi also will add the S4 Cabriolet, which was unveiled here Tuesday, Sept. 9, to its U.S. lineup. This will be the first time Audi will offer a convertible in an S model, Audi's performance range.

The soft-top will debut next summer. It is powered by a 344-hp V-8, borrowed from the S4 sedan, mated to a six-speed gearbox.

Note: New Mazda 3 a darling, what's not to like if you are a car enthusiast.

http://www.autoweb.com.au/start_/sho...wsarticle.html

Alpha1 · 09-24-2003, 08:46 PM

Mazda 3 release slated for January 2004
18 Sept 03: Mazda will introduce a new standard of design flair, driving dynamics and quality to the small car market when the all-new Mazda3 goes on sale in January 2004.
Building on the success of the critically acclaimed Mazda6, Mazda2 and rotary-powered RX-8, the Mazda3 will be the fourth all-new Mazda launched in Australia in just 18 months.

Available in two unique body styles – an aggressive and confident five-door hatch and a refined and sporty sedan – the Mazda3 brings a new level of sophistication to a market segment traditionally focused on functionality and sales volumes.

The sedan and hatch will be powered by a choice of state-of-the-art 2.0-litre or 2.3-litre MZR four-cylinder engines, which develop 104 kilowatts (ECE) 140hp and 115kW (ECE) 154hp respectively using regular unleaded fuel. They also meet the strict Euro Stage III emission standard.

The Mazda3, which is bigger in every dimension inside and out than the 323, will offer even better value than Mazda’s superseded small car.

It is expected to be priced from about $22,500 and it will come standard with air conditioning.

It will boast class-leading safety features that include dual stage inflation airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters, five lap/sash seatbelts, an intrusion minimising brake pedal, anti-whiplash front seats, a soft interior to reduce secondary head strike, rear ISOFIX and top tether child seat anchor points, tilt and reach adjustable steering and three rear headrests.

Six airbags – dual front, front-seat mounted side airbags to protect the chest and head protecting curtain airbags – and ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) will be standard on some models and optional across the rest of the range.

Built around new-generation architecture and suspension systems, which include a rear multi-link arrangement based on that of the Mazda6, the Mazda3 has been engineered to set the driving benchmark in the class.

Engine power is delivered through a five-speed manual or four-speed Activematic transmission, while four-wheel disc brakes will ensure Mazda’s usual high standard of braking response. A new electro-hydraulic steering system ensures quick, responsive steering.

The managing director of Mazda Australia, Malcolm Gough, said: “The Mazda3 is our fourth car to be designed and engineered to reflect our Stylish, Insightful and Spirited brand DNA.

“Building on the market success of the Mazda6, Mazda2 and RX-8, the Mazda3’s combination of two stylish body styles and class-leading on-road ability makes it the perfect replacement for the much-loved 323, which has been on our roads since 1977.

“For the first time in a long time buyers can choose an exciting, high quality, great value sedan or hatch in the highly competitive but fundamentally conservative small car market

Alpha1 · 09-30-2003, 06:16 PM

Autoweek Magazine first drive of the new Mazda 3

Impressive Review

http://www.autoweek.com/cat_print.mv...768&1797752502

Engines for North America include a 148-hp version of the 2.0-liter and the 160-hp 2.3-liter four used in the Mazda 6 (the 2.0-liter in non-N.A. markets). We drove a four-door with the 2.3-liter and a five-door with the 2.0, both with the five-speed manual. By the end of 200 or so miles, we knew we’d take a five-door 2.3-liter S (i.e. Sport Appearance Package) with five-speed and 17-inch tires. The four-door, though it goes well, is a less exciting design than the very cool five-door; the S package and upgraded wheels make this practical hatch a segment leader in the looks department. With an H-point nearly two inches higher than on the Protegé it replaces, sightlines are extremely good. The interior is bigger in every dimension for both passengers and cargo. The only gaffe we noted inside is foot room for the rear passengers that is cut off at the heels by a required crossmember.

Alpha1 · 10-14-2003, 10:40 PM

You make the call, Alpha1

Alpha1 · 10-15-2003, 04:51 PM

Studebaker " Hawk "

Note: it appears that the B9 has a single piece hood and trunk caps, this leads me to believe that the B9 has some advanced manufacturing processes. It may incorporate some space frame technology, very interesting. I also like the plastic lower external planels. This is the best looking integration of those type of panels to date. Much superior to the Pontiac Aztec, Honda Element or Subaru's new Outback.

There is hope for the next generation Subaru's. I would like to see you guys take a more serious look and these new designs from a finite vantage and look at how some of the design components can be utilized in future Subaru products.

The design elements are far more important than the actual prototypes. I love the instuments pod and center console of the B9, it lookS alot like the new Porsche GT Carrera.

Alpha1 · 10-16-2003, 08:58 AM

It appears that several auto manufactures have their sights set on an all-weather convertable. This maybe becoming a more viable concept.

Though the car pictured is a computer-generated speculation of the Mk.V Cabrio by specialists Nextline, we believe it's an accurate depiction of what the upcoming car will be. In a similar fashion of how the hatchback Peugeot 307 and Renault Mégane were converted into smooth, long-tailed cabrios, the Golf will undergo a similar process. Stretched slightly to allow for proper accommodations of four people, as well as to hide the tonneau cover. We expect to see the first concept this upcoming April 2004 at the Geneva show, and at the earliest, as a production model in '05.

Alpha1 · 10-17-2003, 06:45 PM

Oct 17, 2003 – Nissan says the C-Note is a proposal for a new "compact car with superior quality, packing an array of comfort features into its compact body".

Based on the same platform of the Renault Megane, the C-Note previews next years all-new Almera for the Japanese market. The European version of the Almera is likely to feature a different body style, possibly reflecting the Nissan Evalia concept shown earlier this year at the Geneva show.

C-note, sounds like dope , it may sale like dope!!!

This is also a great looking compact car and should be successful in the hatch segment. Great Interior, looks upscale for a economy car

Alpha1 · 10-17-2003, 06:58 PM

Oct 17, 2003 – The Nissan Fuga concept proposes a new direction in luxury cars that are both sporty and roomy. The key points in Nissan's presentation of the Fuga:

- Fuga’s styling achieves two elements of a sporty exterior and roomy interior without any compromises.

- The FR-L Platform (FM Package), which is also used on the new Skyline, delivers superb driving performance.

- Interior spaciousness surpasses all other sedans in this class. Fuga’s tall overall height that provides ample headroom, and legroom is expanded for rear-seat occupants.

- The interior’s overall tone is unified in Japanese imagery and a modern design.

- Human-machine interfaces (HMI) that are simpler and easier to understand and operate are located in the middle of the center console. Control switches mounted on the steering wheel reduce the driver’s workload substantially while providing multifunctionality.

Love the front end, the rear quarter reminds me of a Chevrolet Impala, not particularly appealling. The overall design is solid

Alpha1 · 10-24-2003, 12:22 AM

This is an interesting approach to the emerging wagon market.

Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey is the most significant new production debut at a show dominated by concept cars. The design has the latest evolution of the corporate Honda face now defined by a single upper line for both lights and grille, but it is most interesting for its interior functional design.

The front seats’ H-point is as for a standard passenger car with foot wells similarly low on a thin car like floor. Second row occupants sit slightly higher on a seat that splits, reclines and slides. These second row seats also have squabs that hinge forward to reveal useful storage space and have backs with a section that hinges back to cover the rearmost foot wells of third row occupants and form a flat floor when the seats are folded. Third row seats are marginally higher again, although still with sufficient space to accommodate adults, and fold electrically into the boot floor. All of this is achieved within a length of 4765mm (think Accord) and a height of 1550mm (only 50mm more than a Civic five door).

Low roofed MPV, or tall versatile estate car? The Odyssey serves to show how increasingly blurred vehicular types have become as well as how Honda lead vehicle packaging and interior functional design by an impressive margin.

Alpha1 · 10-29-2003, 06:20 PM

Above: Saab Sonnet 1, Below: Saab Sonnet 3

GM has another great opportunity with the Subaru/Saab venture to field a pair of sportcars based on the B9 frame to compete with Nissan Z cars, Porsche Boxster(soon to have a hardtop variation), Audi TT and Mazda Miata & RX7, etc...

The new pontiac Solstice is expected to be a sub $25,000 cars, where as the B9 variants could start around $25,000 with a 190hp AVCS NA 2.5 and push up to $40,000 in the turbo 2.5 300+ hp STI versions.

Alpha1 · 10-30-2003, 12:37 PM

Honda's sleek Japanese-market Odyssey drops jaws

By JAMES B. TREECE | Automotive News

TOKYO -- The new Japan-market Odyssey minivan created more buzz at this year's Tokyo Motor Show than any of the concepts on display.

The vehicle drew such widespread applause that Thomas Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co. Inc., was hinting that he might have to find a spot for it in the U.S. lineup.

There are no plans for it to be exported to North America and, despite the name, it has no connection to Honda's U.S.-market Odyssey.

Show goers were amazed by the model's markedly low stance.

The roof has been dropped 3 inches from the already low-slung previous-generation model, but interior space was kept the same by lowering the floor, too.

The result looks so sleek that first-time viewers could not believe that it was not longer than the previous Odyssey. It isn't.

Unlike the outgoing model, the new Odyssey offers only a 160-hp, 2.4-liter inline-four. Rather than offer an optional V-6 as it did with the previous-generation Odyssey, Honda instead will introduce a bigger minivan next year that will be powered by a standard V-6.

As a competitive vehicle, "It scares the heck out of me," one rival carmaker executive said.

Nissan Motor Co. Executive Vice President Patrick Pelata said the Odyssey had "the best interior design Honda has ever done."

The low height will be a huge selling point in Japan, with its low-ceilinged parking garages. But Pelata was one of the few who did not immediately endorse the redesign.

"I'm very skeptical of bringing down the eye of the driver in a family car," he said. "There's a true customer benefit to having a higher eye point. You can see better, and your kids can see better. We'll see how customers react."

Alpha1 · 10-30-2003, 12:40 PM

Nissan says Fuga Tokyo concept will be next Infiniti M45

By KATHY JACKSON | Automotive News

The Nissan Fuga debuted at the Tokyo motor show.
TOKYO -- The Fuga show car on the Nissan stand at the Tokyo Motor Show will be the new Infiniti M45, sources confirm.

With a four-person seating capacity, the sporty-looking sedan shares a platform with the Infiniti G35 and FX45 and the Nissan 350Z. It will come with both six- and eight-cylinder engines and in rear-drive and all-wheel-drive versions.

The M45, which will debut at the end of 2004 as a 2005 model, is crucial to Infiniti's growth plans in the United States.

"When we replace the M, I'm expecting sales to rise," said Norio Matsumura, executive vice president of global sales and marketing for Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. "With the styling and roominess of the new M and also the quality interior, I put it in the first-tier luxury mode."

The show car featured a plush leather interior and telematics.

"For Infiniti, interior is very important," Matsumura said.

U.S. dealers sold only 468 M45s in September and 3,508 for the nine months ending Sept. 30.

Matsumura would not estimate the number of sales for the new M45, but he expects Infiniti sales to be about 100,000 in the United States this year and to be considerably higher with the arrival of the new M.

Infiniti sales were up 40.7 percent through September to 89,856. But its volume lagged luxury leader Lexus, which had sales of 186,009 for the same period.

Infinitis are sold only in the United States. Matsumura says he doubts the brand will go global, although Nissan President Carlos Ghosn was quoted in the Financial Times last week as saying the company was studying the possibility of extending Infiniti to Japan and Europe.

"It is my dream to make Infiniti global, but that is not a reality due to regulations, etc., around the world," Matsumura says. "You have to spend a lot of money."

Alpha1 · 10-30-2003, 01:05 PM

pio!pio! · 10-30-2003, 08:14 PM

dude this forum is subaru news and rumors

take this to offtopic

balyndraks · 10-30-2003, 08:53 PM

I for one find it interesting. I think that most of us are curious to see what new cars are coming out from all of the manufacturers; especially cars that fill similar market niches as our cars. It is always good to know what is out there.

Good work, Alpha1. I'm sure that took quite a bit of your time.

Jay

PPower · 10-30-2003, 09:03 PM

Did a moderator do this? With all of these good changes going on with the layout, who knows. Anyway, this is good because these kinds of posts were cluttering up the other threads as much as I like reading the info. Notice all of the dates on the posts were from the original time Alpha posted them in the other threads.

RA29 · 10-30-2003, 09:28 PM

This is cool, keep them coming!
The OT forum gets filled up too quickly and so car rumors get lost easily there.

North Ursalia · 10-30-2003, 10:13 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by PPower
Did a moderator do this? With all of these good changes going on with the layout, who knows. Anyway, this is good because these kinds of posts were cluttering up the other threads as much as I like reading the info. Notice all of the dates on the posts were from the original time Alpha posted them in the other threads.

Yeah, that was me

. Alpha1, if you read this, what you were doing looked entirely like post-whoring to me, but they were good posts- just posts entirely out of context for the most part. So, we now have the Alpha1 commemorative non-Subaru cars thread in the News and Rumors forum because

Quote:

Originally posted by RA29
This is cool, keep them coming! The OT forum gets filled up too quickly and so car rumors get lost easily there.

RA29 is right... OT moves very quickly, and these things get lost

.

Balyndraks and others, Alpha1 didn't so much post all this stuff in one thread to annoy you... I just put all the non-Subaru stuff in one spot

.

Brian

amdmaxx · 10-31-2003, 03:52 PM

new Fuga is so awesome!!!

Corn-Picker · 10-31-2003, 06:12 PM

The EVO VIII MR has me excited. If this comes to the states with a 2.4 liter at a reasonable (under 35k) pricetag, I may be on board. I just can't wait to see what Subaru will do to respond.

The MR looks a lot sexier than the normal EVO VIII.

I agree that this thread is a good idea. It's nice to have somehere to talk about other cars other than off topic, where you have to sift though 50 pages of trash to find anything worthwhile.

Alpha1 · 10-31-2003, 07:08 PM

First post on new car thread, Alpha1

I would love to see Subaru do a 3 door WRX in the next generation Impreza similar to the new BMW 1 series car.

BWenink · 11-01-2003, 03:05 AM

It's about time we in the States have the opportunity to buy this type of car. Likely around 1700-1800lbs., non-boosted steering, 190hp, 0-60 in less than 5, sticker price likely to be 38.5k. Probably about as close to a no-frills driving experience that can be bought today (for the street). I can't wait to own one!

Lotus Elise, Road & Track

09-03-2003, 09:56 PM	#2
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	VW Golf 5 photo gallery The forthcoming VW golf 5, is a very handsome car, frames 47 & 48 show GTI body cladding, This car should be successful internationally. I hope Subaru effectively counters this Golf 5 launch with the next generation Impreza. http://vwvortex.rely.net/gallery/gal...wagen/Golf%20V

09-09-2003, 11:23 PM	#3
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Mazda 3 Sedan sweet car The new Impreza needs to be this handsome. http://www.velocidad-maxima.com/foru...ead.php?t=7612

09-15-2003, 06:37 PM	#4
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	GTI Golf first new Generation 5 product GTI will lead fifth generation VW Golf into U.S. market By RALPH KISIEL \| Automotive News FRANKFURT - In a bid to boost Golf sales when the redesigned, fifth generation bows in the United States, Volkswagen of America Inc. will introduce the sportier, more powerful GTI version rather than the traditional sedan. The GTI, with a turbocharged, 2.0-liter inline-four that makes 200 hp, is slated to debut in the United States in spring or summer 2005. The Golf, including the GTI model, is longer, wider and roomier than its predecessor. The GTI's front end features the same dramatic V shape that encompasses the hood, grille and bumper of the Concept R, a VW roadster that was unveiled here last week. This style element will be carried over to all new VW models, said Gerd Klauss, president of Volkswagen of America Inc. The new GTI has a more powerful, sporty appearance than the previous generation. This is the first time that VW has tried to better differentiate the GTI from the four-door and two-door Golfs. Jens Neumann, Volkswagen AG board member for North American strategy, said he expects to sell at least 15,000 GTIs a year in the United States, plus 15,000 to 20,000 four-door Golfs. VW of America sold a combined 20,490 Golf and GTI models through August of this year in the United States, down from 22,052 a year ago. Audi of America Inc. also expects to introduce its entry-level car, the A3 five-door hatchback, in summer 2005. Audi has three A3 models on sale in Europe, but they are all three-door hatchback models. Len Hunt, Audi of America vice president, said, "Nobody has seen the A3 version that is coming to us in summer 2004." The five-door hatchback probably will be equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine, Hunt says. Audi of America is willing to wait for the five-door version because it is a larger car that should be more appealing in the United States, he says. Audi also will add the S4 Cabriolet, which was unveiled here Tuesday, Sept. 9, to its U.S. lineup. This will be the first time Audi will offer a convertible in an S model, Audi's performance range. The soft-top will debut next summer. It is powered by a 344-hp V-8, borrowed from the S4 sedan, mated to a six-speed gearbox. Note: New Mazda 3 a darling, what's not to like if you are a car enthusiast. http://www.autoweb.com.au/start_/sho...wsarticle.html Last edited by Alpha1; 09-15-2003 at 07:01 PM.

09-24-2003, 08:46 PM	#5
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Mazda 3 coming on strong Mazda 3 release slated for January 2004 18 Sept 03: Mazda will introduce a new standard of design flair, driving dynamics and quality to the small car market when the all-new Mazda3 goes on sale in January 2004. Building on the success of the critically acclaimed Mazda6, Mazda2 and rotary-powered RX-8, the Mazda3 will be the fourth all-new Mazda launched in Australia in just 18 months. Available in two unique body styles – an aggressive and confident five-door hatch and a refined and sporty sedan – the Mazda3 brings a new level of sophistication to a market segment traditionally focused on functionality and sales volumes. The sedan and hatch will be powered by a choice of state-of-the-art 2.0-litre or 2.3-litre MZR four-cylinder engines, which develop 104 kilowatts (ECE) 140hp and 115kW (ECE) 154hp respectively using regular unleaded fuel. They also meet the strict Euro Stage III emission standard. The Mazda3, which is bigger in every dimension inside and out than the 323, will offer even better value than Mazda’s superseded small car. It is expected to be priced from about $22,500 and it will come standard with air conditioning. It will boast class-leading safety features that include dual stage inflation airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners with load limiters, five lap/sash seatbelts, an intrusion minimising brake pedal, anti-whiplash front seats, a soft interior to reduce secondary head strike, rear ISOFIX and top tether child seat anchor points, tilt and reach adjustable steering and three rear headrests. Six airbags – dual front, front-seat mounted side airbags to protect the chest and head protecting curtain airbags – and ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) will be standard on some models and optional across the rest of the range. Built around new-generation architecture and suspension systems, which include a rear multi-link arrangement based on that of the Mazda6, the Mazda3 has been engineered to set the driving benchmark in the class. Engine power is delivered through a five-speed manual or four-speed Activematic transmission, while four-wheel disc brakes will ensure Mazda’s usual high standard of braking response. A new electro-hydraulic steering system ensures quick, responsive steering. The managing director of Mazda Australia, Malcolm Gough, said: “The Mazda3 is our fourth car to be designed and engineered to reflect our Stylish, Insightful and Spirited brand DNA. “Building on the market success of the Mazda6, Mazda2 and RX-8, the Mazda3’s combination of two stylish body styles and class-leading on-road ability makes it the perfect replacement for the much-loved 323, which has been on our roads since 1977. “For the first time in a long time buyers can choose an exciting, high quality, great value sedan or hatch in the highly competitive but fundamentally conservative small car market

09-30-2003, 06:16 PM	#6
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Mazda 3 to get all-wheel drive in 2005 Autoweek Magazine first drive of the new Mazda 3 Impressive Review http://www.autoweek.com/cat_print.mv...768&1797752502 Engines for North America include a 148-hp version of the 2.0-liter and the 160-hp 2.3-liter four used in the Mazda 6 (the 2.0-liter in non-N.A. markets). We drove a four-door with the 2.3-liter and a five-door with the 2.0, both with the five-speed manual. By the end of 200 or so miles, we knew we’d take a five-door 2.3-liter S (i.e. Sport Appearance Package) with five-speed and 17-inch tires. The four-door, though it goes well, is a less exciting design than the very cool five-door; the S package and upgraded wheels make this practical hatch a segment leader in the looks department. With an H-point nearly two inches higher than on the Protegé it replaces, sightlines are extremely good. The interior is bigger in every dimension for both passengers and cargo. The only gaffe we noted inside is foot room for the rear passengers that is cut off at the heels by a required crossmember. Last edited by Alpha1; 10-01-2003 at 11:22 PM.

09-02-2003, 07:05 PM	#1
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Volvo's answer to the Impreza Subaru, Saab, BMW, VW/Audi etc... will be sharing the compact and premium compact markets with the new Volvo S40. Volvo may have a winner with this car, if they have a quality feel. The storage compartment behind the floating console is one of the better design features I have seen on any new car. I am always annoyed by where my wifes shoulder bags end up while riding with her in our cars, the ability to stow bags in this area is innovated to say the least. Volvo has aways been a favorite brand amongst the educated female market, with their reputation of safety minded products. Interesting car http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content...._code=04498892

10-14-2003, 10:40 PM	#7
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Alfa or BMW You make the call, Alpha1

10-15-2003, 04:51 PM	#8
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Studebaker " Hawk " Note: it appears that the B9 has a single piece hood and trunk caps, this leads me to believe that the B9 has some advanced manufacturing processes. It may incorporate some space frame technology, very interesting. I also like the plastic lower external planels. This is the best looking integration of those type of panels to date. Much superior to the Pontiac Aztec, Honda Element or Subaru's new Outback. There is hope for the next generation Subaru's. I would like to see you guys take a more serious look and these new designs from a finite vantage and look at how some of the design components can be utilized in future Subaru products. The design elements are far more important than the actual prototypes. I love the instuments pod and center console of the B9, it lookS alot like the new Porsche GT Carrera. Last edited by Alpha1; 10-15-2003 at 09:09 PM.

10-16-2003, 08:58 AM	#9
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	VW Passat base Cabrio It appears that several auto manufactures have their sights set on an all-weather convertable. This maybe becoming a more viable concept. Though the car pictured is a computer-generated speculation of the Mk.V Cabrio by specialists Nextline, we believe it's an accurate depiction of what the upcoming car will be. In a similar fashion of how the hatchback Peugeot 307 and Renault Mégane were converted into smooth, long-tailed cabrios, the Golf will undergo a similar process. Stretched slightly to allow for proper accommodations of four people, as well as to hide the tonneau cover. We expect to see the first concept this upcoming April 2004 at the Geneva show, and at the earliest, as a production model in '05.

10-17-2003, 06:45 PM	#10
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Nissan follow Mazda 3 with the C-Note Oct 17, 2003 – Nissan says the C-Note is a proposal for a new "compact car with superior quality, packing an array of comfort features into its compact body". Based on the same platform of the Renault Megane, the C-Note previews next years all-new Almera for the Japanese market. The European version of the Almera is likely to feature a different body style, possibly reflecting the Nissan Evalia concept shown earlier this year at the Geneva show. C-note, sounds like dope , it may sale like dope!!! This is also a great looking compact car and should be successful in the hatch segment. Great Interior, looks upscale for a economy car

10-17-2003, 06:58 PM	#11
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Why Subaru needs a fullsize car. Oct 17, 2003 – The Nissan Fuga concept proposes a new direction in luxury cars that are both sporty and roomy. The key points in Nissan's presentation of the Fuga: - Fuga’s styling achieves two elements of a sporty exterior and roomy interior without any compromises. - The FR-L Platform (FM Package), which is also used on the new Skyline, delivers superb driving performance. - Interior spaciousness surpasses all other sedans in this class. Fuga’s tall overall height that provides ample headroom, and legroom is expanded for rear-seat occupants. - The interior’s overall tone is unified in Japanese imagery and a modern design. - Human-machine interfaces (HMI) that are simpler and easier to understand and operate are located in the middle of the center console. Control switches mounted on the steering wheel reduce the driver’s workload substantially while providing multifunctionality. Love the front end, the rear quarter reminds me of a Chevrolet Impala, not particularly appealling. The overall design is solid

10-24-2003, 12:22 AM	#12
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	honda Odyssey 7pax high wagon This is an interesting approach to the emerging wagon market. Honda Odyssey The Honda Odyssey is the most significant new production debut at a show dominated by concept cars. The design has the latest evolution of the corporate Honda face now defined by a single upper line for both lights and grille, but it is most interesting for its interior functional design. The front seats’ H-point is as for a standard passenger car with foot wells similarly low on a thin car like floor. Second row occupants sit slightly higher on a seat that splits, reclines and slides. These second row seats also have squabs that hinge forward to reveal useful storage space and have backs with a section that hinges back to cover the rearmost foot wells of third row occupants and form a flat floor when the seats are folded. Third row seats are marginally higher again, although still with sufficient space to accommodate adults, and fold electrically into the boot floor. All of this is achieved within a length of 4765mm (think Accord) and a height of 1550mm (only 50mm more than a Civic five door). Low roofed MPV, or tall versatile estate car? The Odyssey serves to show how increasingly blurred vehicular types have become as well as how Honda lead vehicle packaging and interior functional design by an impressive margin.

10-29-2003, 06:20 PM	#13
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	B9 Scrambler project Above: Saab Sonnet 1, Below: Saab Sonnet 3 GM has another great opportunity with the Subaru/Saab venture to field a pair of sportcars based on the B9 frame to compete with Nissan Z cars, Porsche Boxster(soon to have a hardtop variation), Audi TT and Mazda Miata & RX7, etc... The new pontiac Solstice is expected to be a sub $25,000 cars, where as the B9 variants could start around $25,000 with a 190hp AVCS NA 2.5 and push up to $40,000 in the turbo 2.5 300+ hp STI versions. Last edited by Alpha1; 10-29-2003 at 06:56 PM.

10-30-2003, 12:37 PM	#14
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Honda 7 seater Honda's sleek Japanese-market Odyssey drops jaws By JAMES B. TREECE \| Automotive News TOKYO -- The new Japan-market Odyssey minivan created more buzz at this year's Tokyo Motor Show than any of the concepts on display. The vehicle drew such widespread applause that Thomas Elliott, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co. Inc., was hinting that he might have to find a spot for it in the U.S. lineup. There are no plans for it to be exported to North America and, despite the name, it has no connection to Honda's U.S.-market Odyssey. Show goers were amazed by the model's markedly low stance. The roof has been dropped 3 inches from the already low-slung previous-generation model, but interior space was kept the same by lowering the floor, too. The result looks so sleek that first-time viewers could not believe that it was not longer than the previous Odyssey. It isn't. Unlike the outgoing model, the new Odyssey offers only a 160-hp, 2.4-liter inline-four. Rather than offer an optional V-6 as it did with the previous-generation Odyssey, Honda instead will introduce a bigger minivan next year that will be powered by a standard V-6. As a competitive vehicle, "It scares the heck out of me," one rival carmaker executive said. Nissan Motor Co. Executive Vice President Patrick Pelata said the Odyssey had "the best interior design Honda has ever done." The low height will be a huge selling point in Japan, with its low-ceilinged parking garages. But Pelata was one of the few who did not immediately endorse the redesign. "I'm very skeptical of bringing down the eye of the driver in a family car," he said. "There's a true customer benefit to having a higher eye point. You can see better, and your kids can see better. We'll see how customers react."

10-30-2003, 12:40 PM	#15
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Infinity new M45 Nissan says Fuga Tokyo concept will be next Infiniti M45 By KATHY JACKSON \| Automotive News The Nissan Fuga debuted at the Tokyo motor show. TOKYO -- The Fuga show car on the Nissan stand at the Tokyo Motor Show will be the new Infiniti M45, sources confirm. With a four-person seating capacity, the sporty-looking sedan shares a platform with the Infiniti G35 and FX45 and the Nissan 350Z. It will come with both six- and eight-cylinder engines and in rear-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. The M45, which will debut at the end of 2004 as a 2005 model, is crucial to Infiniti's growth plans in the United States. "When we replace the M, I'm expecting sales to rise," said Norio Matsumura, executive vice president of global sales and marketing for Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. "With the styling and roominess of the new M and also the quality interior, I put it in the first-tier luxury mode." The show car featured a plush leather interior and telematics. "For Infiniti, interior is very important," Matsumura said. U.S. dealers sold only 468 M45s in September and 3,508 for the nine months ending Sept. 30. Matsumura would not estimate the number of sales for the new M45, but he expects Infiniti sales to be about 100,000 in the United States this year and to be considerably higher with the arrival of the new M. Infiniti sales were up 40.7 percent through September to 89,856. But its volume lagged luxury leader Lexus, which had sales of 186,009 for the same period. Infinitis are sold only in the United States. Matsumura says he doubts the brand will go global, although Nissan President Carlos Ghosn was quoted in the Financial Times last week as saying the company was studying the possibility of extending Infiniti to Japan and Europe. "It is my dream to make Infiniti global, but that is not a reality due to regulations, etc., around the world," Matsumura says. "You have to spend a lot of money."

10-30-2003, 01:05 PM	#16
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	Focusing on the Impreza

10-30-2003, 08:14 PM	#17
pio!pio! Scooby Specialist Member#: 4190 Join Date: Feb 2001 Chapter/Region: SCIC Location: Downey, CA Vehicle: 2008 Impreza WRX STi Aspen White	dude this forum is subaru news and rumors take this to offtopic

10-30-2003, 08:53 PM	#18
balyndraks Scooby Newbie Member#: 28678 Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Ware, MA Vehicle: 2003 Legacy L-SE Wgn Mystic Blue Pearl	I for one find it interesting. I think that most of us are curious to see what new cars are coming out from all of the manufacturers; especially cars that fill similar market niches as our cars. It is always good to know what is out there. Good work, Alpha1. I'm sure that took quite a bit of your time. Jay

10-30-2003, 09:03 PM	#19
PPower Scooby Specialist Member#: 22146 Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Tulsa, OK Vehicle: 2005 9-2x Aero silver	Did a moderator do this? With all of these good changes going on with the layout, who knows. Anyway, this is good because these kinds of posts were cluttering up the other threads as much as I like reading the info. Notice all of the dates on the posts were from the original time Alpha posted them in the other threads.

10-30-2003, 09:28 PM	#20
RA29 Scooby Specialist Member#: 30598 Join Date: Dec 2002 Vehicle: 2000 Lancer Evo 6 Hot Pink	This is cool, keep them coming! The OT forum gets filled up too quickly and so car rumors get lost easily there.

10-31-2003, 03:52 PM	#22
amdmaxx Scooby Specialist Member#: 31665 Join Date: Jan 2003 Chapter/Region: Tri-State Location: Northern NJ, USA Vehicle: 2006 Saab 9-2x Aero Black	new Fuga is so awesome!!!

10-31-2003, 06:12 PM	#23
Corn-Picker Scooby Specialist Member#: 8679 Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Morgantown, WV Vehicle: 2004 Impreza WRX STi WRB w/ silver wheels	The EVO VIII MR has me excited. If this comes to the states with a 2.4 liter at a reasonable (under 35k) pricetag, I may be on board. I just can't wait to see what Subaru will do to respond. The MR looks a lot sexier than the normal EVO VIII. I agree that this thread is a good idea. It's nice to have somehere to talk about other cars other than off topic, where you have to sift though 50 pages of trash to find anything worthwhile.

10-31-2003, 07:08 PM	#24
Alpha1 Scooby Newbie Member#: 36829 Join Date: May 2003 Location: Greensboro, NC Vehicle: 97 Chevrolet S10 Red	BMW's answer to the Impreza First post on new car thread, Alpha1 I would love to see Subaru do a 3 door WRX in the next generation Impreza similar to the new BMW 1 series car.

11-01-2003, 03:05 AM	#25
BWenink Scooby Newbie Member#: 23388 Join Date: Aug 2002 Chapter/Region: Tri-State Location: Rochester, NY Vehicle: 2002 WRX Wagon Cobb Stg. 2	Lotus Elise It's about time we in the States have the opportunity to buy this type of car. Likely around 1700-1800lbs., non-boosted steering, 190hp, 0-60 in less than 5, sticker price likely to be 38.5k. Probably about as close to a no-frills driving experience that can be bought today (for the street). I can't wait to own one! Lotus Elise, Road & Track

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode