2011 Hyundai Azera Facelift with More Powerful V6 Engines

Hyundai rolled out a mildly restyled version of the Azera sedan at the Chicago Auto Show this week. We first got a taste of the changes made on the 2011 Azera back in December '09 when Hyundai launched the sedan's South Korean domestic market twin, the Grandeur, in its facelifted form.

The biggest changes to Hyundai's competitor to vehicles such as the Lexus ES350, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima, Buick LaCrosse and Ford Taurus (or at least those are the cars that Hyundai claims that the Azera rivals) are well hidden under the hood.

Both the 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines of the 2011 Azera have been enhanced with the use of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT) that improves engine breathing on the intake and exhaust camshafts for better fuel economy and lower emissions.

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Honda Previews New Odyssey Minivan with a Thinly Disguised Concept at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show

Honda selected the 2010 Chicago Auto Show to unveil the Odyssey Concept study that teases the next-generation of the Japanese firm's minivan. And by that, we mean that the concept is more of a garnished pre-production model than a pure study.

Just don't expect the shaved door handles, funky exterior mirrors, large alloy wheels, the futuristic light inserts and every other detail that makes the concept stand out to be present on the series production 2011 Odyseey that will debut this fall.

Compared to the current Odyssey, the concept has a slightly lower roofline (-1.0 inch) and wider stance (+1.4 inch), both contributing to a somewhat sleeker shape and a more dynamic stance. The wheelbase length remains the same at 118.1 inches.

The Japanese company said that the production version of the next generation Odyssey will boast enhanced aerodynamic properties and new powertrain technologies resulting to an increased fuel efficiency.

In particular, Honda anticipates that the 2011 Odyssey minivan will achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway on select models.

2010 Chicago: Kia Shows Futuristic Prius Rival with Ray Plug-in Hybrid

With the new Ray plug-in Hybrid concept that made its world premiere today at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, Kia wants to inform the world that being green doesn't necessarily translate to dull and that the company's future plans include a dedicated hybrid model.

The concept study was penned by Kia's American studio and the plan was to create a futuristic four-seat compact saloon based on the Kia Forte platform that combines design and engineering for maximum efficiency.

And while the Ray's aerodynamic shape with the high-rear deck mimics that of other hybrid models like the Prius and Honda Insight, it's more stylish and has its own unique character.

The futuristic theme is continued in the interior that is comprised of eco-friendly and lightweight recycled materials in cool white tones that are said to reflect the heat of the sun, thus keeping the temperature down and reducing the use of air conditioner energy

The Ray is designed to be powered by an all-aluminum 153-horsepower Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) 1.4-litre engine mated to a CVT and a 78kw electric motor powered by a lithium ion battery pack.

Depending on driving conditions, power is sent to the front wheels from the petrol engine, the electric motor, or both together.

Kia said that it can cover driving distances of more than 50 miles using just its electric motor on a single charge, and has a fuel economy rating of more than 202 miles per gallon for a total range of 746 miles.

Other notable features include the 20-inch alloys in custom-designed low-rolling resistance 195/50R20 tyres, drive-by-wire steering and the roof mounted solar panels that can power the climate control or the lighting system.