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The gadget-laden Acura RL has long been a favorite here at CNET Car Tech. As one of the first cars to offer a navigation system with real-time traffic data, and an active collision mitigation system, the current generation RL was ahead of the pack in terms of cabin and drivetrain technology. However, as we found in our recent review of the 2007 RL, the model has started to show its age. Acura is remedying that with the release of the 2009 RL. The 2009 RL comes with a new body style, a more powerful engine, and some more pioneering cabin technology including real-time weather information, and a navigation system that can automatically reroute around congestion. Check out our photo gallery here.
GMC unveiles the Denali XT concept at the Chicago Auto Show.
(Credit: GMC)GMC takes a major step in reimagining the SUV with the Denali XT concept unveiled at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show. Although this concept uses a pickup truck style body, all of its tech innovation can be applied to an SUV, a class of vehicle that includes the current production GMC Yukon Denali. Unlike traditional SUVs, which consist of a body bolted onto a frame, the Denali XT is built on a unibody architecture, similar to how today's cars are built. Unibody vehicles are considered to have better handling, and a more comfortable ride. However, they are not considered good tow or work vehicles. GMC made the body of the Denali XT stiffer than current body-on-frame trucks to increase towing and work capabilities.
The Denali XT borrows design elements from Chevrolet's Camaro concept.
(Credit: GMC)Besides its looks, much of the Denali XT's story centers on the engine. GMC developed a 4.9-liter V-8, and coupled it to the two-mode hybrid system used in the current GMC Yukon Hybrid. GM is a big proponent of ethanol fuel blends, so GMC made the Denali XT flex fuel capable. It's the first example of an E85-capable engine paired with a hybrid system. GMC said the Denali XT gets 50 percent better fuel economy than other small trucks. The truck also has an air suspension, so its ride height can adjusted for different conditions. The interior shows similar design characteristics to the Chevrolet Camaro concept launched last year, including brushed aluminum accents and rectangular, rather than circular, openings.
Hyundai's new concept was launched at the Chicago Auto Show.
(Credit: Hyundai)At the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, Hyundai showed off a purpose-built fuel cell vehicle called the i-Blue. Hyundai has been developing a fuel cell powertrain for several years using its Tucson SUV as a test vehicle. As a purpose-built vehicle, Hyundai was able to place the fuel stack under the floor, making for better weight distribution. Hyundai classifies the i-Blue as a crossover utility vehicle, although it uses a 2+2 seating arrangement, which would put it on the small side for a crossover. As a concept, it employs futuristic-looking driver controls and instrumentation, complete with a 3D heads-up display and cameras around the car.
The i-Blue uses a fuel cell powertrain.
(Credit: Hyundai)The i-Blue uses Hyundai's third generation fuel cell powertrain, fed by tanks holding 115 liters of compressed hydrogen at 700 bar, about 10,000 PSI. This hydrogen is converted into electricity in the fuel-cell stack, which powers a 100 kilowatt motor. Hyundai said this system gives the i-Blue a range of 370 miles and a top speed of 100 mph. With Honda already launching the Clarity as a production fuel cell vehicle, Hyundai seems to be vying to be second in the fuel cell race.
Volkswagen's Routan looks like any other minivan.
(Credit: Volkswagen)Volkswagen rolled out its new Routan vehicle at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, reinforcing Chrysler's idea that the minivan is alive and well. Frankly, we don't care for the conventional minivan look of the Routan. The minivan segment was pioneered by Volkswagen way back in 1950--with the Type 1 Transporter, or microbus--so we would expect something more interesting looking than the Routan. The Routan offers minivan amenities in the form of three rows of seats, with second row captain's chairs, and 32.7 cubic feet of cargo space. Without the third row seats, there is 83 cubic feet of cargo space.
The Routan uses a hard drive-based navigation system.
(Credit: Volkswagen)The Routan is designed for the U.S., with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine standard, and an optional 4-liter V-6. It also boasts 13 cup holders. The only reason we are remotely interested in the Routan is that it uses Volkswagen's new hard drive-based navigation system, which we also saw on the Volkwagen Passat CC at the Detroit Auto Show. Other tech features are fairly standard, such as optional rear seat DVD entertainment and power sliding doors. We did notice a phone button on the navigation system, which could denote Bluetooth cell phone integration. But, as we've seen on other Volkswagen models, that phone button could be inoperable. What we really want to see on the Routan is a split windshield and eight small windows around the roof.
Chevrolet launched a new crossover vehicle at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show, but from its specifications, it sounds more like an SUV. The Traverse has three rows of seating, plus cargo space, although the automaker insists that it drives like a much smaller car. We like that it uses a six-speed automatic. It also has some interesting tech options, such as Bluetooth, that shows GM isn't as bound to OnStar as it has been in the past.
Bringing new meaning to the term "remote office," Ford Motors on Wednesday announced a set of high-tech features for its F series trucks and E series vans, including the 2009 version of the F-150. The announcement was timed to the first of two media preview days for the Chicago Auto Show, which is open to the public from February 8-17.
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