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Jaguar readying SUV for Frankfurt motor show

While the next new Jaguar model slated for dealerships is a BMW 3-series fighter rumored to be called the XS, Autoweek sources have confirmed the company will also be showing an SUV at the Frankfurt motor show in September. Likely to be named XQ or Q-type, the Jaguar SUV is expected to ride on a version of the XS platform (itself a variation on the aluminum XJ architecture) rather than share a platform with a Land Rover product. Slated for 2016 production, the new Jaguar XQ SUV will share some powertrain technology with Land Rover, specifically the Ford I-4 engines from the Evoque.

GM bets on new four-cylinder family in Europe; U.S. plans unclear

General Motors' European subsidiary, Opel, has revealed a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct-injection gasoline engine that will be offered from early 2013 across its lineup, starting with the soon-to-be-revealed Astra-based Cascada convertible. The aluminum block unit, the first in a new range of so-called SIDI (spark ignition direct injection) ECOTEC engines, forms the centerpiece of the company's downsizing strategy for displacement. The engine is claimed to have improved torque characteristics and a significant reduction in consumption compared with its predecessor.

Toyota previews FT-Bh concept [w/video]

Toyota has released the first images along with a video for its new FT-Bh concept car, set to be unveiled at the Geneva motor show. The FT-Bh – Future Toyota B-segment hybrid – previews a production-destined car designed to maximize fuel efficiency and built using economically-viable construction methods and technologies. The five principal factors that the Toyota's designers have focused on are reducing the car's weight (just 800kg), increasing its aerodynamic performance as well as its powertrain efficiency via thermal energy management and electricity saving qualities.