Monday, March 2, 2009

Based On The Versa, Why Don’t People Like Nissan’s Cube?

Based on the Nissan Versa and sharing its 1.8-liter, 122 HP engine, it’s here equipped with a continuously variable transmission. But really, the Cube’s raison d’etre isn’t its mechanical ability, but its body style. An upright two box like the Scion xB or Honda Element, the second generation Cube actually predated both those cars. This third generation vehicle, the first to be offered in the United States, attempts to soften the square edges, boosting both the design appeal and interior space.

The exterior is the kind of thing vacuous aesthetes go gaga for. The asymmetry and rounded boxes subvert traditional car archetypes into something that’s more akin to a slightly outdated piece of architecture or furniture. While its profile is strikingly similar to that xB, it’s radically different in detail, immediately looking like no other car on the road. Especially in a vibrant color like this teal, you’ll stand out on the road in a way that might trouble men not confident in their sexuality

Dacia Duster Hybrid Crossover Concept To Debut In Geneva


.Dacia, an automaker with Romanian origins and is now subsidiary of Renault, will be unveiling its first concept at this year’s 2009 Geneva Motor Show. The Dacia Duster concept is a crossover coupe that has one-door on one side and two-doors on the other side. So while it can be pitched as sporty crossover, it can also come in handy as an MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle).
The Dacia Duster crossover concept is powered by a 1.5 dCi engine making 105-hp. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the Duster can run from 0 to 62 mph in 9.6 seconds while returning a fuel-economy of 53 mpg (44 mpg in U.S. terms). No word on whether Renault and Dacia will put Duster into production but it sounds like a good idea for the European market…..”
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