Mercedes-Benz to drop the R-class in the U.S.

Mercedes-Benz will drop the slow-selling R-class wagon from its U.S. lineup after the 2012 model year. But the German automaker will continue to build the R-class at its plant in Alabama for export to other markets.

LA Motor Show: Subaru previews fifth-generation Legacy

SUBARU has showcased its new Legacy concept, which strongly hints at the future styling of the brand’s marquee model. At the Los Angeles Auto Show Subaru took the wraps off the preview model ahead of the fifth generation Legacy’s expected launch in 2014, when it will celebrate its 25th anniversary. The company trademarks of a Boxer horizontally-opposed engine and mechanical permanent all-wheel drive will remain, giving the Legacy a degree of sure-footedness that few, if any, rivals can beat.

SUVs – Huge in India

The West’s perception of a 4×4 in India – the truth is quite different (click for full image) Car buyers in the West flooded in to SUVs / 4x4s of one sort or another over the last decade. But the current economic woes have brought the SUV bandwagon to an abrupt halt as buyers desert the SUV in droves in favour of something smaller and more economical. Indians can actually buy everything from the most popular Ford Endeavour through to a full blown Cayenne or Range Rover.