New York 2009: Day 2 with Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, and Spyker

This posting is a bit late because I'm knackered from running around on the floor of the New Your International Auto Show, but I promised you a couple of significant debuts that happened today, and so here they are: The first major debut was from Subaru, with the new 2010 Outback Wagon. Subaru stated that they were the top brand within the US so far in 2009. So with the introduction of the Legacy and the Outback models, Subaru is in a strong position to weather the current market conditions, with some of the most loyal core buyers in the industry.

The Outback will offer two different “boxer” style engines; a 2.5L, fuel injected flat four producing 170HP, and a new 3.6Lflat six producing 256 HP. The four cylinder models offer a choice of a six-speed manual, or a new CVT automatic called Lineartronic. The range topping 3.6L is only available with a five-speed automatic.

Hyundai decided to show up in New York with an Equus, that will not be offered in the US, and the Nuvis Concept, yet another Hybrid Crossover. The Nuvis is powered by Hyundai's 2.4L Theta II 4 Cylinder mated to a six speed automatic, and a 30kW electric motor. Hyundai uses a Lithium Polymer battery pack, which utilizes less space than a standard battery pack. All the common Hybrid energy saving technologies have been applied in this package, from regenerative braking systems, to start/stop engine management. Since this is a parallel hybrid system, all four wheel are powered by either the gasoline engine, all electric power, of a both depending upon demand.

Hyundai's sister division actually introduced a hot little production number called the Kia Forte Koup. Kia has been paying attention to the youth market, and set their sights directly on the Civic Coupe. The show model was dressed is an appropriate shade of red, which augmented the aggressive styling, with a low stance sitting on somewhat tame alloys. According to Kia, this competes with the aformentioned Civic, Cobalt, and Scion Tc. It comes in two versions, the EX with a 2.0L CVVT four producing 156 HP, and a CX with 2.4L Four producing 173 HP. Both 5 speed manual and traditional automatic transmissions available, with a six speed reserved for the CX.

Spyker, the Dutch Sports Car Company introduced the C8 Aileron. Spyker cars are a visual feast for the eyes, with heavy influences from vintage aircraft. You are greeted to most beautiful dash that has ever been constructed for an automobile. A billet gauge cluster is accompanied by toggle switches that are a work of art. The gear shift lever probably the most pronounced piece of detail with the linkage being fully exposed.