Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept -
2012
Nissan is using this year’s Paris Auto Show
to showcase the TeRRA sport-utility concept, a vehicle that combines
the Japanese automaker’s expertise with electric vehicles, such as the
zero emission Leaf hatchback, along with its lineup of compact and
urban-themed SUVs. Thanks to a powertrain consisting of electric motors
mated to a hydrogen fuel cell stack under the hood, the Nissan TeRRA
offers a tantalizing hint at what Nissan could have in store for future
generations of EVs. The exterior design – including the lowered
greenhouse, smooth front fascia and exaggerated fenders – also suggest
what to expect on future versions of the Juke and Rogue (Qashqai in European markets) crossovers.
Future EV Meets Concept Car Glitz
Some details of the Nissan TeRRA, including its staggered seating
arrangement and organically shaped wooden dashboard, are typical concept
car razzle-dazzle. The instrument display has been simplified down to a
removable tablet-sized data panel, mounted ahead of a
rectangular-shaped steering wheel – perhaps this means no more waiting
outside the Apple store for the next iPad? Yet even more significant
than the shape and style of the TeRRA is what’s lurking beneath its
bright-white bodywork. "Our challenge was to take Nissan's
strength in SUVs and crossovers forward into the zero-emissions era,
fuel cells being our new frontier in zero emission mobility," said
Francois Bancon, Nissan's division general manager of product strategy
and planning.
Nissan says the TeRRA’s four-wheel-drive zero emission powertrain is “far from imaginary,” though production hinges upon hydrogen becoming “widely available” at some point. Under the hood of the TeRRA is a compact fuel cell that, according to Nissan, is now one-sixth the price of the system’s 2005 predecessor. Powering the front wheels is the same electric motor found in the current Nissan Leaf while, providing extra power and grip when needed, two in-wheel electric motors are located at the back. While strictly a concept, the TeRRA SUV proves Nissan’s strategy for EVs stretches many years down the road.
ATS
All new and long awaited, the ATS carries on the tradition started by the CTS, bringing the good fight to BMW’s 3 Series. Available with rear- or all-wheel drive, the 4-door ATS promises youthful performance and an enticing alternative to the European competition. Power will come from a pair of fours—a 2.5-liter and a turbo 2.0-liter—or a 3.6-liter V-6. Initial reports indicate that BMW and Mercedes need to be concerned. See our Drive of the ATS here.
2013 Cadillac ATS
XTS
The Cadillac XTS is one of those vehicles that does not fit cleanly into a specific segment. Even within the ranks at Cadillac there’s a bit of confusion, with some saying it’s aimed at the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series. Others say it was created to go against the Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series. The truth is this: The new XTS lies somewhere between the midsize and full-size classes, possessing the best from each—a relatively low price tag, heaps of interior space and good fuel economy.
2013 Cadillac XTS
Under the hood of the XTS is the LFX engine, a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V-6 that produces 304 bhp at 6800 rpm and 264 lb.-ft. of torque at 5200. The direct-injected power-plant comes mated to a smooth-shifting Hydra-Matic 6-speed automatic transmission that features a manual mode. The front-wheel-drive XTS leaves the line efficiently, with smooth, easy acceleration to freeway speeds and very little torque steer. It reaches 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, according to the manufacturer. What’s more, the 4006-lb. XTS boasts commendable EPA fuel economy figures of 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway.
Through the twisty corners, the XTS stayed stable and composed, feeling much smaller than it actually is. Credit here goes to its rigid but communicative body structure, well-tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension, Brembo brakes and precise steering system. The XTS will also be offered with all-wheel drive. Ride quality is excellent.
2013 Cadillac XTS
The XTS is available in four trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum. It starts at $44,995 and the Platinum model, with niceties such as a premium chrome finish on the grille and custom stitching inside, begins at $59,080.
Verano Turbo
The littlest Buick just introduced this year will gain a 250-bhp Turbo model to stand alongside the 180-bhp base model. Paired with the Turbo is a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Although it’s fast, the Verano Turbo retains the same level of comfort and quietness as the regular Verano. Dual exhaust tips are the only visual clue to pick out this sleeper. As the top of the Verano line, the turbo comes well equipped with luxuries such as a backup camera, leather seating surfaces and blind-spot detection.
2013 Buick Verano Turbo
Future
There are strong rumors that the Regal GS will soon be offered with all-wheel drive and a bump in power—as it was originally conceived. 
Buick Regal GS Concept
