The Hyundai Elantra has already earned a bevy of awards, even the 2012 North American Car and Truck of the Year, and continues to be a hit with consumers. As if the new sedan’s stellar momentum wasn’t enough, Hyundai decided to launch a two-door variant to better give the Civic a run for its money.

At the Chicago Auto Show this week, Hyundai unveiled the Elantra Coupe, which boasts a wheelbase that’s three inches longer than its two-door Civic rival. Under the hood is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet and up to 29 miles per gallon in the city and 40 on the highway highway when mated with a six-speed manual gearbox. An automatic transmission is also available.

There are also plenty of performance-inspired features that can be had along with the Elantra’s newfound sportiness. Such features include 17-inch wheels, rear lip spoiler, lower profile tires than the sedan, and re-tuned suspension. Inside, a touch-screen navigation system is available along with Bluetooth streaming audio, iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs, heated front seats, power sunroof, and dual automatic temperature control with Clean Air Ionizer and auto-defogger.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but expect it to be competitive. The Elantra Coupe already has more room, more horsepower, and better fuel economy than the Honda Civic Coupe, and it may have better styling too.

Find more details on the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe below.

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2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe Press Release

Acura has officially taken the covers off of the production version of the 2013 ILX, the brand’s all-new compact sedan. First shown at the Detroit Auto Show in January, the production model at the Chicago Auto Show this week hasn’t changed much, aside from a few different chrome bits.

Based on the same platform that underpins the latest Honda Civic, the new Acura ILX is powered by a either a 150-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed automatic, a 201-hp 2.4-liter engine mated to a six-speed manual, or a 111-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that combined Integrated Motor Assist and a CVT. The latter, which is Acura’s first hybrid is capable of delivering 35 miles per gallon in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

“We are excited to be launching these two new luxury models as the gateway of Acura’s revitalized product lineup,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura. “As we embark on our second 25 years as a premium luxury-performance automobile brand, we are excited about the role these two vehicles will play in welcoming a new generation of luxury car buyers to the Acura brand.”

The 2013 Acura ILX is squarely aimed at attracting successful 20 and 30-somethings moving into the luxury car ranks. While what’s under the hood may not impress these folks, the ILX will certainly deliver on the value front. Buyers will also be enjoy a well-appointed interior that boasts standard Keyless Access System with smart entry and pushbutton start, along with Pandora internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world. Available goodies include Acura’s award winning ELS Surround audio system, nav system with 60 gig harddrive, and a new multi-view rear camera.

Look for more details on the 2013 Acura ILX below.

2013 Acura ILX Press Release

Taking a cue out of the Porsche playbook, Nissan has decided to make the revamped 2013 370Z more evolution than revolution — which is just fine with us. The updated Z will likely look relatively unchanged to the casual car buyer, but enthusiasts will see a more refined look that retains the car’s classic lines.

The 2013 Nissan 370Z will make its official debut tomorrow at the Chicago Auto Show. Changes are modest, and include new 19-inch wheels, red-finished brake calipers, and Euro-tuned shocks on models with the Sport Package. Other updates for the upcoming model year include a new front facia that’s losing the current model’s distinctive fangs. There’s also a red reflector that’s been added to the rear facia. The base 370Z Coupe will also receive new 18-inch wheels. Buyers can also choose from two new exterior colors – Magma Red and Midnight Blue.

As with the current model, the 2013 370Z will be available in coupe, convertible, and NISMO variations. That latter trim will also get an updated Bose audio system that includes two additional speakers and two subwoofers, not to mention premium 19-inch wheels, and Nissan GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid. The NISMO 370Z does not adopt the new front fascia/rear reflector, Euro-tuned shocks or Midnight Blue exterior color.

“Since the original 1970 Z was first introduced our goal has always been to keep the design moving forward. The changes for 2013, though subtle, go a long way in enhancing its dynamic appearance inside and out,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

Take a closer look at the 2013 Nissan 370Z via the gallery below. And, stay tuned for more updates from Chicago.

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Nissan has recently focused on crossovers and commercial vehicles at recent auto shows here in the U.S., but the automaker will be focusing on the B-segment for the Geneva Motor Show. When the show gets underway next month, Nissan will debut its new hatchback concept called the Invitation.

The Nissan Invitation looks more akin to the Honda Fit than the brand’s own Versa or European Micra — which is a good thing. The concept will also wear Nissan’s Pure Drive badge, indicating that a production version would deliver class-leading levels of fuel efficiency and emissions.

“The name we have given to this concept is self-explanatory,” said François Bancon, Deputy Division General Manager of Product Strategy and Product Planning Division. “It is designed to be inviting thanks to its sensuous exterior design and generous and comfortable interior space, cleverly packaged within compact overall dimensions.”

Most car buyers probably don’t regard the B-segment as offering much in the way of exciting technologies. But the Invitation does feature Nissan’s advanced Around View Monitor (AVM) safety technology which makes reversing and parallel parking as stress-free as possible. The concept also incorporates the Nissan Safety Shield Technologies, which interacts with the driving environment keeping the driver aware of what is happening around the car.

Check out more images of the Nissan Invitation below. Stay tuned for more details closer to the Geneva Motor Show.

Mazda’s latest entry into the crossover segment, the 2013 Mazda CX-5, has been priced very competitively from $20,695. That amount makes it an attractive offering for those buyers looking for strong fuel economy and fun-to-drive dynamics.

For that price, the base CX-5 Sport comes with a bevy of standard equipment, including a six-speed manual, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, daytime running lights, power mirrors, and a roof spoiler. Interior goodies include push-button start, power windows, and a four-speaker AM/FM/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input and USB port, to name just a few. Opt for all-new SKYACTIV six-speed automatic and the price jumps to$22,095. Other available features include Bluetooth Audio Package, a 5.8 inch touchscreen display along with HD Radio Technology, and of course all-wheel drive.

A range-topping CX-5 Grand Touring model will add 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, leather heated front seats, and an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat. Prices for this model start at $27,045 for the one equipped with FWD and $28,295 for AWD.

“The 2013 CX-5 is a look to the future of the Mazda brand,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. “Our achievements in Research & Development have led to breakthrough engineering with SKYACTIV technology. It shows not only in the CX-5′s impressive fuel economy but also with its dynamic handling and performance, which only Mazda can bring to the compact crossover SUV segment.”

Good fuel economy is also assured with any model in the CX-5 range. The crossover’s 150-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and suite of SKYACTIV technologies helps yield an EPA rated fuel-economy of 26 miles per gallon in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Find more information on the 2013 Mazda CX-5 posted below.

2013 Mazda CX-5 Pricing Press Release

Just in time for the arrival of the Scion FR-S, Toyota’s youth-oriented sub-brand decided to give its Scion.com website a makeover. The new website boasts a completely new vibe that’s notably more grown up.

Creative agency ATTIK was tasked by Scion to build a website that was more user-friendly, accessible, functional, scalable and robust. The digital capabilities and talents of the agency certainly proved valuable as the site conveys a far more mature look, while still retraining the previous site’s sensational interactive content.

“Everyone at ATTIK is very proud to announce this new era of collaboration with the executives behind the world’s most innovative automotive brand,” said Simon Needham, ATTIK co-founder and executive creative director. “Obviously, Scion.com is an integral component for the brand’s marketing initiatives, and today, ATTIK’s digital capabilities are second-to-none. Given our brand- and research-driven focus, and our successful track-record managing, developing and delivering engaging content across all media channels, we are now in the position to bring even more value to Scion as we aim toward the future together.”

Although initial reactions to the FR-S have been favorable, there will undoubtedly be plenty of enthusiasts and potential buyers that will struggle with the fact that the car doesn’t wear a Toyota badge. Nevertheless, the new website is just one of the ways through which Toyota is hoping to lure a broader group of customers to the Scion brand. Unlike its dark, flashy predecessor, the new website boasts a design that’s easier on the eyes and offers more function over form — much like the FR-S.

“We have many exciting initiatives set to play out in 2012, and the all-new Scion.com will provide an easy connection and access to key information about our brand and cars,” said Owen Peacock, Scion’s National Marketing and Communications Manager. “Our goal is to make the Scion experience simple and easy all the way from shopping to owning.”

The Suzuki Regina Concept, which made its debut at the Tokyo Auto Show last year, has officially been renamed and will make an appearance at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. When it goes on stage, the new Suzuki G70 will have a few updates to set itself apart from the Regina, but its three-cylinder powertrain is likely to remain unchanged.

The G70 is a small five-door that weight just 730kg and has a drag coefficient at least 10 percent lower than that of a current Suzuki ‘A’ segment model. Its small engine is of course highly efficient, producing 70g/km of carbon emissions.

There’s been no word yet on output or other powertrain specs, but the name change could mean that Suzuki is seriously considering putting this vehicle into production.

Other Suzukis making it to Geneva include the Swift Range Extender, Suzuki’s latest endeavor in hybrid vehicle technology. The Swift Range Extender was first shown at the Geneva Show in 2010 and, since then, has undergone further development which has resulted in a 100 percent improvement in battery driving range to around 19 miles.

Honda will officially enter the FIA World Touring Car Championship with recently redesigned 2012 Civic. Interestingly, it will be the European version hitting the track, not the U.S.-spec model.

Powering these compact racers will be a bespoke 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four, developed by Honda R&D in accordance with FIA’s Super 2000 regulations. Modifications have also been made in partnership with Mugen and J.A.S. Motorsport.

“We have made a decision” said Honda CEO, Takanobu Ito “to enter into the WTCC with the European Civic. We will develop a totally new engine for this project and we are all excited about starting this new challenge.”

Honda is expected to join the WTCC later this year, either in Japan, China or Macau. The automaker plans to compete in every race during the 2013 season.

Racing has always been heavily involved in racing. In the late 1950s Honda first entered the Isle of man T.T and then Formula 1 in the 1960s. Honda sees the WTCC as the next chapter in a ongoing commitment to motorsports.

Although the Geneva Motor Show is still over a month away, the buzz is already brewing around Infinti’s latest concept. The automaker plans to unveil its first-ever extended-range electric sports car dubbed the Emerg-e.

Although few details are available just yet, the Infiniti Emerg-e will be a two-seater with an extended range powertrain, meaning it will have electric motors that drive the wheels and a gasoline engine that will charge the battery when it’s low on electricity (think Chevrolet Volt). Naturally it will offer strong mileage, but Infiniti also promises it will offer spirited performance and responsive driving dynamics as well.

The powertrain will be mounted mid-ship to aid weight distribution and improve handling. Lotus was also involved in the development of the Emerg-e’s suspension and chassis which ensures it will be able to tackle corners with confidence. Should this concept make it into production, it’s expected to take on the likes of the BMW Z4.

Infiniti has certainly set its sights on producing more performance cars with advanced powertrains. Already the brand sells the world’s fastest hybrid and the Emerg-e arrives on the heels of Infinti’s beloved 600-horsepower Essence hybrid concept.

Learn a little more about the development of the Emerg-e via the video below.

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Citing data from technology research firm Gartner, CleanFleetReport.com predicts that sales of plug-in vehicles in the U.S. will increase more than fivefold this year to 100,000 units.

That number represents significant growth considering that only 18,0000 plug-ins were sold in the U.S. in 2011. But with wider availability of the Nissan Leaf and Chevy  Volt, not to mention the arrival of the Mitsubishi i and Ford’s new Focus Electric, demand is certainly expected to rise.

“The 100,000 unit number isn’t our formal forecast,” said Thilo Koslowski, Vice President of Gartner’s Automotive and Vehicle Practice. “The number is what you arrive at based on manufacturers’ plans/expectations for 2012.  I believe this number is rather ambitious and actual new EV and plug-in vehicle sales for 2012 will probably be around 40,000 to 60,000 vehicles.”

Although plug-in sales remain somewhat modest compared to other vehicle segments, competition will also help to encourage more early adopters. Eventually, with more sales, the cost of owning one these vehicles will also help broaden their appeal.