Acura has released the pricing details on the new 2010 Acura ZDX crossover, which will arrive at dealerships starting Dec. 15. Pricing will start at $45,495 for the base ZDX.

The 2010 Acura ZDX with a Technology Package will run you $49,995 and will ad Acura’s Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather with radar image maps, a full VGA display screen and an innovative new multi-view rear camera. It also includes an upgraded Acura/ELS Surround 415-watt Premium Audio System with a built-in 15-gigabyte hard disk drive media storage system, a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system and Keyless Access System.

The 2010 Acura ZDX with an Advance Package costs $56,045 and builds on the Technology Package with a new blind spot information system, Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigating Braking System, an Integrated Dynamic System active damper system, heated and ventilated front seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather seating surfaces, premium brushed tricot headliner material and a sport steering wheel.

All 2010 Acura ZDX model are powered by a 3.7L VTEC V6 engine making 300-hp and a maximum torque of 270 lb0ft. EPA-rated fuel-economy comes in at 16/23 mpg (city/highway). All ZDX models also get Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.

Click here for more news on the Acura ZDX.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

2010 Acura ZDX:

- By: Omar Rana

Kia’s fist U.S. built vehicle, a white 2011 Kia Sorento crossover, rolled off the production line today at Kia Motoring Manufacturing Georgia.

“The start of production for our first manufacturing facility in the United States further demonstrates our commitment to growth in North America and we are proud to be adding 2,500 jobs to the local economy” said B.M. Ahn, group president and CEO, Kia Motors America (KMA) and KMMG.

The KMMG plant is expected to produce 300,000 vehicles when it reaches full capacity. It employs some 2,500 jobs, with on-site and nearby suppliers creating 7,500 jobs.

Click through for the press release.

2010 Kia Sorento:

Press Release:

KIA MOTORS’ FIRST U.S. MANUFACTURING PLANT STARTS PRODUCTION IN WEST POINT, GA

$1 Billion Manufacturing Plant To Create 2,500 Jobs

* State-of-the-art facility is capable of producing 300,000 vehicles annually
* All-new 2011 Sorento CUV is first vehicle built at the plant

WEST POINT, Georgia, November 16, 2009 – The first U.S.-built Kia vehicle¹, a white 2011 MY Sorento CUV, rolled off the production line today at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), officially opening the first U.S. Kia Motors² plant. KMMG is expected to produce 300,000 vehicles at full capacity and employ 2,500 people, with on-site and nearby suppliers creating 7,500 additional jobs in the region.

Representing an investment by Kia Motors of $1 billion, KMMG will establish new benchmarks for vehicle quality and productivity by utilizing some of the world’s most advanced manufacturing techniques. KMMG’s general assembly area is outfitted with more than a half mile of height-adjustable conveyors to achieve the most favorable installation position for each team member and reduce physical fatigue. Also in general assembly, KMMG is the only plant in North America outfitted with wood flooring, which provides a more comfortable and forgiving work environment for team members.

Built on 2,200 acres, the complex includes a body stamping facility, a transmission shop where the all-new 2011 Sorento’s six-speed automatic transmission is produced, and a two mile test track in addition to the main assembly plant. The plant’s 186-foot-long stamping press delivers 5,400 tons of pressure to stamp steel into 17 different types of vehicle panels for the all-new Sorento, operating at a speed of seven to 15 strokes per minute. The massive stamping equipment spans from almost 20 feet below the floor to 39.4 feet high.

KMMG continues Kia Motors’ aggressive investment in the U.S. market. Since 2002, more than $1.3 billion has been invested in various facilities throughout the country, including a dedicated corporate campus and design center in Irvine, Calif., a state-of-the-art research and development center in Ann Arbor, Mich. and custom-built vehicle proving grounds in Mojave, Calif.

Since coming to market in the United States, Kia Motors, through its US-based marketing and distribution arm, KMA, has expanded to a full product line of vehicles and enjoyed 14 years of consecutive market share increases, including a 50 percent increase through October 2009. Most recently, KMA posted its best sales quarter in company history and is one of only three automakers whose sales are up over their 2008 sales pace.

- By: Stephen Calogera

An official BMW document from BimmerFile shows that the pricing of the new 2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo will start at $64,725, including an $825 destination fee. The 550i Gran Turismo will be the only variant of the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo that will be offered in the U.S. when it goes on sale in spring of 2010.

Power comes from BMW’s 4.4L V8 engine making 400-hp and a peak torque of 450 lb-ft. The engine is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission that contributes to performance and fuel efficiency. 0-60 mph comes in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 150 mph when equipped with the Sport Package. For models equipped with all-season tires the maximum speed is limited to 130 mph.

Also, for the first time in a U.S. BMW model, the new 5 Series Gran Turismo will be equipped with BMW’s Brake Energy Regeneration system to save energy and reduce the vehicle’s fuel consumption.

Buyers can opt for 8 different packages including the $2,950 Active Ventilated Seat Package, $750 Camera Package, $1,900 Convenience Package, $950 Cold Weather Package, $1,350 Driver Assistance Package, $3,950 Luxury Rear Seating Package, $1,400 Premium Sound Package and the $4,200 Sport Package.

Update: Official press release added.

Click here to read more news on the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo.

2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo:

Press Release:

BMW ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE 2010 BMW 550i GRAN TURISMO

The 550i Gran Turismo arrives in showrooms with an MSRP of $64,725.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, November 18, 2009… BMW today announced pricing for the first of its 5 Series Gran Turismo models to reach US shores. The 550i Gran Turismo will be available beginning December 5, 2009 with a base MSRP of $64,725, including $825 Destination & Handling.

The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a new interpretation of a classic concept offering, in this case, luxury seating for four or five in combination with remarkably flexible storage options. 550i Gran Turismo will combine the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with BMW’s first-ever 8-speed automatic transmission. With maximum output of 400 horsepower and peak torque of 450 lb-ft., the 550i Gran Turismo will accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds.

The 550i Gran Turismo provides a luxurious travelling experience for five. The available Luxury Rear Seating Package creates the ultimate first class environment for two rear passengers. The unique dual-access tailgate offers the choice of a tradition trunk opening or full tailgate access to the generous rear luggage area.

A full list of options and packages may be found below.

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo Available Packages:
* Active Ventilated-seat Package $2,950
* Back-up Camera Package $750
* Convenience Package $1,900
* Cold Weather Package $950
* Driver Assistance Package $1,350
* Luxury Rear Seating Package $3,950
* Premium Sound Package $1,400
* Sport Package $4,200
* Nappa Leather Package $1,000

2010 BMW 550i Gran Turismo optional equipment:
* 20-inch wheels with mixed-sized
performance tires $1,000
* Power rear side window shades $500
* Integral Active Steering $1,750
* Multi-contour seats $1,300
* Satellite radio $350
* Rear seat entertainment system $2,200
* Smartphone integration $150
* 4-zone automatic climate control $500
* Ceramic finished controls $650
* Ski bag $150
* iPod and USB adapter $400
* Head-up display $1,300
* Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection $2,600

- By: Omar Rana

Source: BMW (via BimmerFile)

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee was spotted driving around in Michigan roads looking rather nice in a matte-black paint job with black wheels. We’re guessing this is just a prototype of the next-generation Grand Cherokee making rounds at local dealerships.

Click here for more news on the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Refresher: The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be offered with two new powertrains including Chrysler’s new flexible fuel 280-hp Phoenix 3.6L V6 which increases fuel-economy by up to 11 percent. The range will be topped off with a 5.7L HEMI V8 making 360-hp and a maximum torque of 390 lb-ft.

Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee in Michigan:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Jeep Garage (via accelerating-perspective and AutoBlog)

The launch of the next-generation BMW X3 SUV has been delayed to encourage buyers to custom order the crossover according to their specifications. According to the CEO of BMW North America, Jim O’Donnell, the move will allow BMW to offer up to four engine choices at launch, making a lower-priced version available from the beginning. The current BMW X3 is only available with an all-wheel-drive model that starts at $39,575.

The delay means that the next-generation X3 won’t hit U.S. showrooms until mid-2011, six months after the model goes on sale in Europe.

Production of the BMW X3 will be moved from Magna Steyr in Austria to BMW’s Spartanburg, S.C., factory.

O’Donnell says that lower-priced versions could offer a 4-cylinder gasoline and a diesel variant. He said that a final decision will be made by the end of this year.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoWeek

At the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in January, Volkswagen will show the new 2011 Volkswagen Touareg. The lineup is reported to include a hybrid version of the SUV.

The Volkswagen Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid uses the German automakers BlueMotion Technologies that are mated to parallel hybrid system and a supercharged V6 TSI allowing the SUV to produce a total of 324-hp. The Touareg Hybrid is able to travel up to 31 mph on the electric motor.

Volkswagen says that when the Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid enters production in 2010, it will have a towing capacity of 3.5 metric tons (7,716 pounds).

Volkswagen Touareg V6 TSI Hybrid Prototype:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

If you want one of the most powerful hybrids in the world, get ready to cash out close to $90,000. BMW has announced the price tag of the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6, which will start at $89,725, including the $875 destination and delivery charge.

The 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is powered by a reworked version of the 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 from the xDrive50i that now produces 400-hp and a peak torque of 450 lb-ft. BMW also took out the starter, alternator, or belt drive for the air-conditioning compressor. The dual-circuit cooling system has been modified for all-electric operation. The engine is then mated to electric-motors that have an output of 91-hp and 86-hp respectively, with a peak torque values of 192 lb-ft and 206 lb-ft.

Combined, the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 produces a total of 480-hp with a maximum torque of 575 lb-ft. Mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission, 0 to 60 mph comes in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 130 mph. The ActiveHybrid X6 is BMW’s first full-hybrid vehicle that can run exclusively on electric-power at speeds of up to 37 mph. The combustion engine is activated automatically when required. Overall, fuel-economy is improved by roughly 20 percent.

Sales of the 2010 ActiveHybrid X6 will begin later this year.

Click here for more news on the BMW ActiveHybrid X6.

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6:

Press Release:

BMW ActiveHybrid X6.

BMW ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE 2010 BMW ACTIVEHYBRID X6

At $89,725 the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 arrives just in time for the holidays.

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, November 18, 2009… The BMW ActiveHybrid X6 will arrive in US showrooms right on the heels of its North American debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The one-of-a-kind Sports Active Coupe featuring two-model hybrid technology will be available beginning December 5, 2009 with a base MSRP of $89,725, including destination and handling.

In addition to BMW’s interpretation of two-mode hybrid technology, mated to the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 the price includes a number of standard features which are optional on the X6 xDrive50i. These include a unique 7-speed automatic transmission, Extended Nappa leather (including the dashboard and center console), 20-inch Aero Wheels with mixed-sized performance tires, Rearview camera with Top View and Head-up display.

The full list of additional standard features is included below. In addition to the very extensive list of standard equipment, there are a handful of options to tailor the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 to individual tastes. These are also listed below.

BMW’s first-ever hybrid represents another important element of the company’s ongoing EfficientDynamics strategy.

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 additional US standard over US X6 xDrive50i
* 7-speed automatic transmission
* Extended Nappa leather seats including dashboard and center console
* 20-inch Aero wheels with mixed-sized performance tires
* Rear view camera with Top View
* Head-up Display
* BMW Assist with Bluetooth phone connectivity
* Power tailgate
* Premium sound system
* 6-disc DVD Changer
* iPod and USB adapter
* Universal garage-door opener
* Comfort Access
* Soft-close doors
* 4-zone climate control
* Heated front seats
* Auto-dimmer rearview mirrors
* Digital compass mirror
* Anthracite headliner
* Ambiance lighting
* Privacy glass
* Running boards
* Storage package

2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 optional equipment:
* Active ventilating seat package $1,100
* Cold Weather Package $900
* Rear side window shades $300
* Sport seats N/C
* Automatic high-beams $250
* Satellite radio $350
* Rear seat entertainment system $1,700
* Smartphone integration $150
* Enhanced premium sound system $700
* 19-inch wheels with all-season tires N/C

If you’re someone looking to get into a Pontiac before General Motors shuts the brand down, you better act fast. Tweeting at its Twitter account, Pontiac today listed the number of units for each model left in its dealer inventory.

Here is the list as it stands today:

Pontiac G8 GXP: 16
Pontiac G8 GT: 570
Pontiac G5: 1500
Pontiac Torrent: 400
Pontiac Solstice Coupe: 139
Pontiac Solstice Coupe GXP: 160
Pontiac Vibe: 350
Pontiac G6 GXP: 530

Check out our review of the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP here.

Reviewed: 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP:

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright ©2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Source: Twitter

At the 2009 LA Auto Show, Mitsubishi will show the public its new 2010 Outlander GT. The automaker released a bunch of images of the SUV today, however, technical details are still being kept under wraps.

The 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT is available in Australia with two engine choices including a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine making 167-hp mated to a 5-speed manual or an optional CVT automatic with Sports Mode sequential style shift. The top-of-the-line model is powered by a 3.0L V6 making 226-hp and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sports Mode sequential style shift change and INVECS Smart Logic.

We’ll have more details sometime next week. Stay tuned for live pictures from LA.

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander GT:

- By: Omar Rana

In a statement released today, GM announced that they will be investing $C 90 million to re-tool CAMI Automotive’s West Body Shop plant in Ontario, Canada. According to DetNews, the investment plan will boost production of the GMC Terrain and Chevrolet Equinox by about 40,000 units and recall about 150 laid-off employees.

“This investment is an excellent example of what happens when you get the product right.” said GM Canada’s president, Arturo Elias. “If the product is right, everything else follows – increased production, increased employment and strong market demand.”

The Equinox and Terrain are two of GM’s best-selling models. So far this year, GM has sold 63,850 vehicles.

Check out our review of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox and the 2010 GMC Terrain review here.

Review: 2010 GMC Terrain:

Review: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox:

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

While we still await the arrival of the road-going Mini Countryman Crossover, which has now been delayed to March 2010, Prodrive is reportedly prepping the vehicle for a possible WRC entry for Mini. According to a report by Autosport, a World Rally Car version of the Countryman is likely to be launched at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.

The publication says that Prodrive has been working on a new generation Mini WRC for much of 2009, developing the parts required without actually working on a base model.

“Right now there is nothing to say and I don’t think there will be anything to say until the spring, said Technical director David Lapworth. “This is not an official statement from me, it’s just the way things look. That said, it’s going to be very difficult to keep this thing under wraps.”

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Autosport (via MotoringFile)

At the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, BMW Group’s Mini brand revealed the Mini Coupe and Mini Roadster concepts. Both models are expected to enter production and hit the roads by early 2011. We also know that the much-anticipated Mini Countryman Crossover will debut in the first part of 2010 with European and U.S. sales to begin later that spring.

But there is a lot more coming out of the Mini pipeline and Mini enthusiast site MotoringFile has all the details.

During sometime in 2010, Mini will unveil the Moke Concept, a model that will feature a stripped down interior and exterior. Think of a smaller four door Jeep Wrangler and you’ll have an idea of what it’s about. Following that we’ll see a Mini MPV Concept, which MotoringFile says is an “R60 derived four door GTI type of vehicle.”

Mini is also planning something called the Vision Concept. Details are a bit hazy at the moment but sources say that it will involve BMW’s Project i technology (EVs and plug-in hybrids).

Also, in four years, Mini will to roll out a new replacement for the R56. As of right now, keep an eye our for the Countryman and the Mini Coupe and Roadster.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: MotoringFile

Honda today announced the pricing details on its new 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour crossover model that will arrive in dealerships on November 20. Retail pricing starts at $26,670 ($30,380 when you include a destination and handling charge of $710).

The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour is available in two trim-levels including EX and EX-L. The Accord Crosstour EX offers: dual-zone automatic air conditioning with second row ventilation, 360-Watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with seven speakers, easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seat back, 17-inch aluminum wheels, hidden removable utility box, cruise control, moonroof, auto up/down driver and front passenger side windows, rear privacy glass, steering wheel-integrated audio controls, compass and outside temperature indicator, projector beam headlights with auto-off, fog lights, chrome door handles, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, and more. The EX-L gets all that and adds leather-seating with heated front seats, leather steering wheel, leather gear shift knob, auto day/night dimming rearview mirror, 18-inch aluminum wheels, auto on/off headlights, memory driver-side seats, memory side mirrors with reverse tilting capability, cargo privacy cover, HomeLink transmitter, cargo privacy cover, Kevlar cone speakers, aluminum dome-type front tweeter speakers and a USB audio interface. Buyers can also opt for Honda’s Satellite Navigation System (with a backup camera) and Real Time 4WD.

All 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour models are equipped with a 3.5L i-VTEC V6 making at total of 271-hp and 254 lb-ft of torque. Estimated EPA-rated fuel-economy for the 2WD model comes in at 18/27 mpg (city/highway and 17/25 for the 4WD model.

Click through for complete pricing details.

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour:

- By: Omar Rana

Speaking to the press at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, Mitsubishi executive John Koenig said that the company is working on a small new crossover that would be called the Outlander Sport in the United States. Mitsubishi today confirmed the all-new compact crossover and said that sales in Japan will begin in February 2010.

The compact crossover is derived from the 2007 Concept cX. Koenig told the press in Tokyo that the production model would be powered by 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and will be offered with front-wheel and all-wheel-drive options.

Look out for the world premiere at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. U.S. sales will begin in the fall of 2010.

Click through for the press release.

Press Release:

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation announces all-new Compact Crossover - Game Changer -

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) announces today the forthcoming introduction of its all-new on-road Compact Crossover, to be retailed first in Japan from February 2010 onwards.

Derived from the much-acclaimed 2007 Concept-cX show car, it is the latest development of MMC’s mid-size global platform (“Project Global”).

This most important product will further support Mitsubishi Motors’ strategic shift from being an SUV-focused nameplate to a manufacturer of environment-friendly passenger cars & crossovers*, with a presence in the “authentic off-roader” segment** – itself pre-empting structural changes in market demand.

As such – and after i-MiEV – this on-road Compact Crossover will be the Corporation’s next game changer towards lower impact vehicles, in their format and/or in the innovative MMC proprietary technologies they will feature.

The European premiere is scheduled for the 2010 Geneva Motor Show.

- By: Omar Rana

UK publication AutoCar is outlining Porsche product plans for the next four years. If they are to believed, we have a couple of exciting things coming from Porsche’s garage.

First up, Porsche has a V6 and a diesel version planned for the new 2010 Panamera sedan. Both models will be a little more affordable than their more powerful V8 siblings.

Following that, a new redesigned Porsche Cayenne is due out sometime in 2010.  The Porsche SUV will receive some modifications to the headlights and taillights along with a reworked direct-injected V8 as seen in the Panamera. A hybrid version of the Cayenne will arrive in 2011 with fuel-economy improvements of up to 30 percent.

The already confirmed Panamera Hybrid is also due out in 2011.

Porsche will give the 911 sports coupe a facelift in the summer of 2012 with some engineering enhancements including a modification to the steel floorpan and an extended wheelbase by 50mm to 2400mm and an upgraded suspension.

Also in the works is the much-rumored compact SUV known as the Rockster, which will fit below the Cayenne. It will use some of the body engineering from the Audi Q5.

Last but not least, it is reported that a Coupe and Convertible version of the Panamera are also in the works. The model will compete against the likes of the Maserati GranTurismo and the GranTurismo Convertible. Look out for the drop-top Panamera in 2013.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

Popular Mechanics today named the 10 winners of its Automotive Excellence Awards for the 2010 year. Chosen by the magazine’s expert editorial team, these awards recognize the best in automotive design, execution and technology for 2010 model year vehicles in ten specific categories.

“Despite a tumultuous year in the automotive industry, engineers have rolled out some of the best cars we’ve ever seen,” said James Meigs, editor-in-chief, Popular Mechanics. “We are exceptionally proud of this year’s Automotive Excellence Award winners, all of which represent the innovation and foresight that will keep this industry moving forward.”

Ford Motor Co. set a new record in Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Awards by winning more categories in a single year than any other automaker in the history of the awards, which has been going on for four years now.

Click through to see the list of winners.

The recipients of the 2010 Popular Mechanics Automotive Excellence Awards:

• Performance: Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
• Design: Chevrolet Camaro
• Value: Kia Soul
• Fuel Efficiency: Toyota Prius
• Versatility: Subaru Outback
• Fun to Drive: Hyundai Genesis Coupe
• Off-Road Ability: Ford F-150 Raptor
• Technical Innovation: Lexus Remote Touch
• Luxury: BMW 335d
• Workhorse: Ford Transit Connect

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Popular Mechanics

Automobile options have certainly evolved over the years; there was once a time when air conditioning was an option.  We seem to be entering a new era however in automobile options as GM is making available this month, a dealer installed internet router, virtually turning your car into a Wi-Fi hot spot that reaches 150 feet around the car, reports Automotive News.

The device is made by San Francisco based manufacturer Autonet Mobile, and will be initially be available in GM vans, SUV’s, and crossovers and trucks.

The first batch of vehicles to offer the device are mainly family oriented ones, as the main idea is that rear-seat passengers can effectively use laptops and other portable devices while front-seat passengers might be able to do things like stream internet radio.

“Ninety percent of customers prefer surfing the Internet over just watching movies,” Sterling Pratz, Autonet Mobile’s chief executive told Automotive News. “Customers want the biggest brands the Internet has to offer in their car, such as Facebook, YouTube and FlyCast Internet radio.”

Autonet already supplies similar products for Chrysler and Volkswagen.

The device comes with a docking station, so that it may be transferred between multiple GM vehicles.  Dealers will begin to offer the product in showrooms next month, and the device is also sold on a GM accessories site; www.gmextras.com.  The unit retails for $499 and web access runs around $29 per month.

-By Stephen Calogera

Joining the Ford lineup at next month’s 2009 SEMA show, will be the brand’s luxury siblings as Lincoln will be presenting their new luxury project vehicles; the MKS, MKT, and MKZ.

The vehicles will be on display in the Ford booth from Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

“Lincoln as a brand is continuing to attract younger customers to the showroom with products like the MKS, MKZ and the new MKT luxury crossover,” said Amy Marentic, Ford North American Car and Crossovers group marketing manager. “These customers place huge importance on style, design and technology, and these are areas where Lincoln plays well,” said Marentic. “SEMA gives customizers the opportunity to push the boundaries of design, while still focusing on the core strengths of the Lincoln brand.”

Click through to see Lincoln’s 2009 SEMA lineup.

The Lincoln project vehicles featured at this year’s SEMA show include:

2009 Lincoln MKS by Raceskinz
The Lincoln MKS Elite is a perfect example of what happens when you merge beauty and technology. Raceskinz is generous with the use of carbon fiber inside and out. And with its high-powered LIIV™ entertainment system, Raceskinz makes sure its occupants stay connected to the world in style.

2010 Lincoln MKT “Panache” by Rick Bottom Designs
Luxury and high style abound in this flamboyant custom vehicle by Rick Bottom. The exterior has been shaved of its door handles, antenna and rear reflectors. A custom-made beltline molding in chrome further accents the body line. Art and science combine for the striking paint treatment. Interior ambience is enhanced with two-toned leather and matching floating armrests. The audio system is powerful and tuned for ultimate sound quality, and the navigation system directs your travels.

2010 Lincoln MKZ by 3dCarbon
The refinement and elegance of the 2010 Lincoln MKZ inspired this look by 3dCarbon, which adds a unique touch to Lincoln’s American style. It’s a realistic and beautiful take on a new classic Lincoln car.

- By: Kap Shah