Nissan Juke SL

INNOVATIVE I-CON SYSTEM CUTS CLUTTER, UPS FUN

Making it even more enjoyable is the Sport button on the I-CON (Integrated Control) system that firms up both the steering and throttle response, requiring just the slightest tip-in to bring on plentiful amounts of torque. Expect a 0-60 mph time in just about 7.0 seconds from a stop, with some tests dropping that into the six-second range. Plus, there’s even a built-in G-meter to tempt you into juvenile displays of speed.
If, however, you do find yourself stuck in traffic, or you’re just feeling green, press the Eco button with a throttle so stiff and unresponsive you’d think it was a Prius. Using both turbocharging and direct-injection, fuel economy is much better than you’d expect considering the fun-quotient it delivers. Rated at a best of 27/32-mpg for the front-drive model with the CVT automatic, the manual offers a 24/31-mpg rating, while AWD versions (available only with a CVT) come in at 25/30-mpg.
More than just a drive-mode selector, the optional I-CON system is as innovative as the car itself. Touch the Climate mode button and instantly the buttons and screen change from the drive controls to climate controls. A bit of a gimmick, it will have you scratching your head for a second or two, but it’s also a solid idea, significantly reducing the number of buttons on the dash. Only mid-level SV trim and up models come equipped with it though.

BMW stretches design form with the Gran

Character lines that flow unbroken from front to back and a long, curved roofline are the hallmarks of BMW's Gran Coupe concept that the automaker unveiled at a private setting in Beijing but won't be putting on the floor of the Beijing motor show.

And even though the concept's name includes coupe, the car has four doors.

The Gran Coupe concept is long and low. It measures nearly 196 inches long--five inches longer than a 5-series sedan--and stands 55 inches tall, about four inches shorter than a 5-series. Even BMW's trademark twin-kidney grille design is stretched wide for this concept.

BMW didn't give us any info on what might be under the concept's hood. But based on the pictures, we don't see what could be standing in the way of this car reaching production.