The wagon shape isn’t a popular iteration for a commuter to chose but when the same bears a GM Moniker and promises to incorporate the Delta Platform from the Chevy Volt, we sure know we are in for something. The Orlando-a seven passenger multi-purpose vehicle which adorns the wagon shape was on track for a 2011 production but then bankruptcy changed everything for GM. Now the stalled Chevrolet model that was first seen at the Paris Motor Show is moving forward if Bob Lutz is to be believed. It hasn’t been confirmed but as per Lutz, GM is studying the adaptation of Volt technology to the upcoming Orlando. It may therefore be produced as an electric family commuter with an extended range based on the Delta platform of course. [via  GM-Volt.com]

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Carlsson has come up with an engine trim for both the petrol and the diesel GL-Cass models couple with an RS-Kit and Suspension Lowering options. The Mercedes-Benz GL isn’t a very satisfactory model and an engine upgrade can do it a world of good. The trim brings an RS kit that is capable of giving an aerodynamic flow to the GL-Class. There is a new radiator grille and bonnet attachments alongwith electro-polished stainless steel grill inserts on the front lip and front and side skirts which make the car pretty distinguishable. The suspension can be lowered using the Carlsson engineered C-Tronic SUSPENSION which brings down the car 30mm with continuous ride adjustments by interpreting road conditions.

The engine is boosted using a sport air filter and electronic changes. As a consequence the top-line GL500 goes from 388hp to 435hp while raising the torque from 530 to 600Nm. The aerodynamic kit costs 8,499 euros, the suspension is available for available for 1,099 euros and the engine upgrade bears a tagging of 4,189 euros. The diesel upgrade comes cheaper at 1,299 euros as the GL 420CDi can now hit 354hp and the 320CDi can produce 269hp-this one though is costlier at 1,499 Euros.

The ones who prefer a front-wheel drive to an all-wheel variant will be pleased to know that the latest Acura RDX has finally arrived with a version for them and that would indeed be the baseline option for the future models. The details for the Acura RDX haven’t been made public but you would find them on the company’s official website. As per the information, this Facelifted Acura RDX 2010 will come with a new front corporate grille and a new bumper. The alloy wheels are also new, and so is the rear bumper sports trim.

A 2.3L turbocharged variant powers the grind to furnish 240hp and 260 lb-ft at 4500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic shift transmission with paddles for semi-automatic changes. On the inside you would find an automatic dual-zone, humidity control and air filtration. Other integrations include Bluetooth connectivity, a USB audio and iPod interface plus a 6-CD in-dash changer. The engine fetches you 19 mpg for the city and 24mpg for the highway. The AWD gets you 17 and 22mpg. The base model (FWD is priced at US$32,520, while the AWD with Super-Handling is priced $2,000 higher. [via carscoop]

BMW X3 is largely being awaited for the fact that it has gone larger and is more luxurious. But the enthusiasts will have to wait till the time we find it guised on a regular street for then we would know it is real close. Apparently, it was snapped secretly in the Death Valley testing in the hot weather conditions. The redesigned 2011 X3 crossover gives a few details despite be scantily revealing in that camouflage. The most evident are the production air-intakes which furnish an aggressive appearance.

The changes have made the X3 highly differentiable from the X1 but it gets closer to the X5. Another improvement to this car would be the interior cabin reforming the car with a luxurious cockpit and avant-garde features, not to mention the iDrive. The engine choices will include four diesel variants ranging between 177 hp and 229 hp. The petrol options will include two versions of the 3.0-liter inline-six. One would be a naturally aspirated version churning 230hp while the other twin turbo-charged variant will top 300hp. There is also a gas-electric version in the ranks. We expect to see this car next year with sales beginning in the middle of the year. [via WCF]

No place for hot-weather testing like the Death Valley and guess what got caught up on the camera, the 2010 Hyundai SantaFe which is supposed to go on Sale in Korea pretty soon. From the spy shots, it is clear that the car gets a redesigned front end, with some styling changes to the grille and the headlights. There is a new front bumper which incorporates fog lights a touch differently. Even the door handles have undergone a trim as they appear to stretch closer to the ground.

A look at the rear reveals retouched taillights with white-out features, a narrower door and differently shaped tailpipes. On the inside, the driver will find new leather upholstery, multifunction steering wheel and an all-new console with an attractive instrument cluster.

[via WCF]

Some official images of the revamped 2010 Acura RDX seems to have been whacked from the database. These images are primarily that of the front but a few conclusions can also be made about the rear section. The SUV will have an entirely different front end with noticeable modifications of the air intakes, fog lamps and the grille. The changes to the rear include hexagonal tailpipes and use of some black mesh material at the center.

Also, there is a part of the redesigned rear bumper which better accommodates the exhaust. The 2WD variant that promises 19mpg economy with a 200lb weight reduction for the Acura RDX is also around the corner and this face-lifted variant will probably be released simultaneously.

A lot of well intended people these days get their camera phones to spy on new models that are about to hit the market. Same goes for a Middle East tipster who was at the right place at the right time (what a coincidence) and got the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (known as Lexus GX in the US) on film. Apparently the car loses some of its muscle looks thanks to a redesigned front fascia with swoopier headlights, a vertical-bar grille and a raised lower bumper detail. With minimal changes in the back that includes more pronounced taillamps and a unique U-shaped chrome garnish, we’d definitely want to get behind the wheel on the new Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. How about you? [via]

A Russian design studio in Moscow has some ideas for the Porsche Cayenne. Status Design is calling the design the ‘body-whale’ kit. And if you ask me, ‘it don’t look like no whale.’ Maybe a stingray. Status Design most likely wants us to think marine-animal as in sleekness and power, but a whale? The front is not unlike the Peugeot with its four-tiered grille or am I not seeing the strings to open and close that thing. The kit is made out of high-quality plastic and carbon.

And although the folks in Russia are ingenious, resilient and resourceful, coming up with good names to give to their designs, it’s not their best though.

[via carmods]