Dual-clutch transmission put on hold at Chrysler

Chrysler Group has delayed introduction of a fuel-saving automatic transmission so it can make the shift patterns more palatable to U.S. drivers--the latest sign that a key tool in automakers' plans to meet tougher fuel-economy rules needs some fine-tuning. Two weeks ago, Ford Motor Co., which uses a similar dual-clutch transmission in its Fiesta and Focus, took a hit in Consumer Reports' annual reliability survey because many drivers complained about balky shifting.

Chrysler Sebring

Chrysler has shown pictures of the 2007 Sebring, a mid-sized sedan that will enter production in America later this year. New from the ground up, the dynamic exterior borrows cues from the Crossfire in the front three-quarter, while a part-masked C-pillar helps accentuate the Sebring's arched cab, eschewing the 'chopped' look of the larger 300C. The urbane interior features an IP with a broad panel theme, reminding slightly of the Mercedes-Benz CLS/> It will be available from launch with the option of two V6 engines and, unusually, a new four-cylinder motor that produces 172PS from 2.4 liters.

Nissan Qashaqai 2011 updates previewed

The Nissan Dualis 2011 should preview the 2011 Nissan Qashqai We get used to JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars getting updates rolled out ahead of the rest of the world, so the news that Nissan has released a set of updates for the Japanese version of the Nissan Qashqai – the Nissan Dualis – will be of interest to Qashqai lovers in the UK and Europe. The updates aren’t exactly huge and amount to little more than a bit of tinkering. Exterior changes include some new alloys, a choice of new colours, chrome door handles and a tweaked grill.