Hot News: Jaguar is Preparing to Introduce Crossover

Jaguar is promising “breakthrough” design and engineering for a proposed new crossover. If it’s signed off for production, it could go on sale around 2016 to crown a radical overhaul of its complete model range.

Speaking bullishly at the Geneva motor show, Jaguar global brand director Adrian Hallmark confirmed that the British marque was responding to Jaguar Land Rover CEO Ralf Speth’s wish to “drive breakthroughs in product development”.

Sister firm Land Rover is enjoying unprecedented success with niche-busting products such as the Range Rover Evoque, and Jaguar has been given full licence to break away from its traditional roots to launch some innovative new models, following the announcement by parent firm Tata that it is doubling annual investment in the pair to £1.5 billion.

Thanks to: Autocar

Hot News: Jaguar - Land Rover & Chery Joint Venture

Jaguar Land Rover and Chery Automobile Company have agreed terms on a joint venture in China. The partnership will include the manufacture of Jaguar, Land Rover and joint venture-branded cars, establishment of a research and development centre, building an engine plant and sales of the vehicles the joint venture produces.

In order to build cars in China, the Chinese government requires foreign manufacturers to team up with a domestic manufacturer. Other joint ventures already in place include BMW with Brilliance, Citroen with Dongfeng Motor Corporation and VW with FAW.

In a joint statement, Dr Ralf Speth, JLR Chief Executive Officer, and Mr Yin Tongyao, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chery, said: "Working together on this proposed joint venture is an exciting prospect for both JLR and Chery. Demand for Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles continues to increase significantly in China, and we believe that JLR and Chery can jointly realise the potential of these iconic brands in the world's largest car market."

JLR is keeping the terms of the agreement under wraps for the time being, but it's clear that this is a significant step towards gaining an even bigger foothold in the world's largest, and fastest growing, car market. Even without this venture, JLR sold 42,000 cars in China in 2011 - it's third largest market. For more details click here.

Thanks to: Auto Express

Hot News: Hyundai to Introduce New Genesis in 2013 and New Sonata in 2014

Hyundai is planning to launch a new version of the Sonata sedan by 2014, as well as an updated Genesis sedan in 2013. According to Reuters, Hyundai CEO Kim Choong-ho revealed the product update plans at an industry meeting in Seoul, South Korea.

The current version of the Hyundai Sonata (pictured) was introduced in Korea in late 2009 and launched in the U.S. in 2010. Since then, the car has not been significantly updated, although new turbocharged and hybrid models have become available. The Sonata is the best-selling Hyundai vehicle in the U.S., and the third best-selling Hyundai in Korea. The new, revamped version is designed to help Hyundai steal more market share from Japanese competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

The Hyundai Genesis, which is the company’s large rear-wheel-drive flagship, should be updated by 2013. The Genesis launched in the U.S. for the 2009 model year, and for 2012 was upgraded with an optional 5.0-liter V-8 engine. The Genesis is the second slowest-selling Hyundai in the U.S. market, after the Azera sedan.

Hyundai also is planning to launch a new version of the Santa Fe crossover at the New York auto show in April. The company already is taking orders for the 2013 Santa Fe in South Korea.

Thanks to: Motor Trend