The Obama Administration has delayed by one year the launch of the federal small-business exchange website. The “Small Business Health Options Program” (SHOP) will eventually work alongside the individual health care exchange, with one website serving individuals and the other small businesses (50 or fewer workers). The exchanges are intended to allow consumers to compare costs and coverage for a variety of plans, and then purchase a plan.  Nevertheless, small companies (49 or fewer workers) are not required to offer insurance under the Affordable Care Act.

Small businesses seeking to purchase insurance through the federally-based SHOP exchanges, and take advantage of qualified tax credits, will need to seek coverage through an agent or broker.  However, the decision does not affect states that have established their own state-based small business exchanges.  Those 18 states are California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and Washington.  Additionally, some of the state-based exchanges are available for companies with 100 or fewer workers.

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By John Stewart

The Los Angeles Auto Show is the first of the international auto shows and, for that reason, provides an early look at some of the vehicles that could be important to SEMA-member companies in 2014. Shown here are a few of the most interesting cars and trucks. Many of these vehicles and others will be available to SEMA members for Measuring Sessions in the near future, so stay tuned.

	’15 Chevrolet Colorado

Colorado Breathes Life into Midsize Truck Segment

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Chevrolet Colorado—a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize truck. Colorado goes on sale in fall 2014. A 2.5L I-4 is standard, and a 3.6L V6 is available. Each engine is designed specifically for truck use, and each features direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. Each is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year—a Duramax 2.8L I-4 turbodiesel already offered in global markets. The diesel engine will expand Colorado’s powertrain lineup to cover the broadest range of needs.

When properly equipped, the Colorado is expected to offer class-leading payload and trailering capacity of more than 6,700 lbs. The ’15 Colorado’s configurations will include an extended cab model with a 6-ft. bed, a crew cab with a 5-ft. bed and a crew cab with a 6-ft. bed. With the tailgate down, the 6-ft. bed allows hauling of 8-ft.-long items.

WT, LT and Z71 trims are available in 2WD or 4WD. The off-road-inspired Z71 is shown on the truck unveiled at the Chevrolet press conference. It also features a gunmetal grille surround—a change from the chrome standard on the other models—projector headlamps and 17-in. aluminum wheels. Safety features include an available forward collision alert system and lane departure warning.

	’14 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec

Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec

Hyundai showed a sport-tuned version of the Veloster—the Turbo R-Spec—at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Turbo R-Spec is based on the aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing Sport Shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. R-Spec production will begin in December 2013 with availability in early February 2014.

For Veloster Turbo R-Spec, sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for optimum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. On the powertrain side, R-Spec is available only with the six-speed manual transmission, and a short-throw B&M Sport Shifter has been added for a tighter, more direct shift feel.

All ’14 Veloster Turbo R-Spec and Turbo models will include Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature, utilizing capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, improves dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving. TVC uses wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering. This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheelspin, for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration.

Hyundai also showed an ultra-clean hydrogen fuel-cell version of the Tucson designed to launch in the spring of 2014. To address the issue of affordability, Hyundai announced a sales program of $2,999 down with payments of $499 a month, and unlimited free hydrogen refueling.

	’15 Subaru WRX

’15 Subaru WRX

Among much fanfare and bursts of steam, Subaru of America unveiled the ’15 WRX—a more powerful and better-handling version of the brand’s high-performance model. Powered by a new 268-hp 2.0L direct-injection turbo boxer engine, the ’15 WRX debuts the model’s first six-speed manual transmission and a new, optional performance automatic transmission—the Sport Lineartronic with two manual modes. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard.

The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks an evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car. The WRX will employ a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and allows for improved cornering speeds and handling. The new powertrain also yields higher fuel efficiency than the previous model. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comfort and materials and a wide array of new user technologies were included to give the new WRX a more refined feel.

Six-time Olympic Gold Medal winner Usain Bolt (left) helped Nissan's Fred Diaz introduce the ’15 GT-R Nismo.

Nissan GT-R NISMO

Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever—the GT-R NISMO. As the fourth model in the ’15 GT-R lineup, along with the GT-R Premium, Black Edition and Track Edition, the GT-R NISMO features extensive engine, suspension, exterior and interior enhancements. It is scheduled to be available later in 2014, following the January on-sale date of the other ’15 GT-R models. Nissan spokesperson Fred Diaz said that the GT-R NISMO would offer 600hp and be capable of blistering acceleration.

The new GT-R was joined at a press conference by the world debut of a custom-built Sentra NISMO Concept and the debut of the production version of the new ’14 Nissan JUKE NISMO RS.
 
The press conference also featured a surprise appearance by Usain Bolt—six-time Olympic Gold Medal winner and 100-meter world record holder. Bolt, who owns a special gold-painted Nissan GT-R, assisted Diaz in revealing the new GT-R NISMO.

	’15 Kia K900

Kia’s Big Step

Marking 20 years in the U.S. market, Kia Motors America (KMA) took the wraps off its new flagship amid a packed house of media representatives from around the world at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.

The K900 will be offered with a V6 or V8 engine. The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package will add luxury amenities, including reclining outboard rear seats. The K900 Premium V6 will launch with an available Luxury Package and Technology Package. The all-new K900 is expected to go on sale during the first quarter of 2014; pricing will be announced closer to launch.

SRT Viper GTS

Viper GTS Limited Edition

The Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand announced it will produce an exclusive, limited-run Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.

Under the hood is the handcrafted, all-aluminum 8.4L, mid-front V10 overhead-valve engine. Performance ratings are 640 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque—the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world, according to the Chrysler Group.

Part of the special-edition package is the new metallic matte exterior color that is being used for the first time by the Chrysler Group to add to the exclusivity of the SRT Viper.

A limited-production run of 50 Viper GTS models with the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package begins in January 2014 at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.

	Galpin Ford GTR1

1,024 HP Galpin Ford GTR1

Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT. The hand-crafted all-aluminum body was constructed by concept car builder Metalcrafters. Notable components include Pirelli P-Zero tires, six-piston brakes with full carbon rotors, and 20-in. forged aluminum knock-off wheels. The car is powered by a twin-curbocharged 5.4L V8 engine that produces an estimated 1,024 hp and 739 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission is a six-speed manual with dual clutch. The car is said to be capable of 0–60 acceleration in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 225 mpg. According to Galpin, GTR1 will be extremely limited in production, with a choice of aluminum or carbon-fiber bodies.

By John Stewart

The Los Angeles Auto Show is the first of the international auto shows and, for that reason, provides an early look at some of the vehicles that could be important to SEMA-member companies in 2014. Shown here are a few of the most interesting cars and trucks. Many of these vehicles and others will be available to SEMA members for Measuring Sessions in the near future, so stay tuned.

	’15 Chevrolet Colorado

Colorado Breathes Life into Midsize Truck Segment

Chevrolet unveiled the all-new ’15 Chevrolet Colorado—a midsize truck for customers who don’t require a fullsize truck. Colorado goes on sale in fall 2014. A 2.5L I-4 is standard, and a 3.6L V6 is available. Each engine is designed specifically for truck use, and each features direct injection and variable valve timing to make the most of power and efficiency. Each is matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. Colorado will also offer the segment’s only diesel engine in its second year—a Duramax 2.8L I-4 turbodiesel already offered in global markets. The diesel engine will expand Colorado’s powertrain lineup to cover the broadest range of needs.

When properly equipped, the Colorado is expected to offer class-leading payload and trailering capacity of more than 6,700 lbs. The ’15 Colorado’s configurations will include an extended cab model with a 6-ft. bed, a crew cab with a 5-ft. bed and a crew cab with a 6-ft. bed. With the tailgate down, the 6-ft. bed allows hauling of 8-ft.-long items.

WT, LT and Z71 trims are available in 2WD or 4WD. The off-road-inspired Z71 is shown on the truck unveiled at the Chevrolet press conference. It also features a gunmetal grille surround—a change from the chrome standard on the other models—projector headlamps and 17-in. aluminum wheels. Safety features include an available forward collision alert system and lane departure warning.

	’14 Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec

Hyundai Veloster Turbo R-Spec

Hyundai showed a sport-tuned version of the Veloster—the Turbo R-Spec—at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Turbo R-Spec is based on the aftermarket-tunable 1.6L, direct-injected, turbocharged engine, along with unique design cues, enhanced chassis tuning, a short-throw B&M Racing Sport Shifter and the lowest price point in the Veloster Turbo lineup. R-Spec production will begin in December 2013 with availability in early February 2014.

For Veloster Turbo R-Spec, sport suspension and steering settings have been retuned for optimum responsiveness, with higher spring rates and a more rigid transmission mount. On the powertrain side, R-Spec is available only with the six-speed manual transmission, and a short-throw B&M Sport Shifter has been added for a tighter, more direct shift feel.

All ’14 Veloster Turbo R-Spec and Turbo models will include Torque Vectoring Control (TVC). This active cornering feature, utilizing capabilities from the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and powertrain control systems, improves dynamic cornering during more enthusiastic driving. TVC uses wheel-speed sensors coupled with ESC algorithms to apply precise braking force to the inside front wheel during spirited cornering. This active braking redirects power to the outside front wheel in the turn, reducing wheelspin, for enhanced cornering grip and corner-exit acceleration.

Hyundai also showed an ultra-clean hydrogen fuel-cell version of the Tucson designed to launch in the spring of 2014. To address the issue of affordability, Hyundai announced a sales program of $2,999 down with payments of $499 a month, and unlimited free hydrogen refueling.

	’15 Subaru WRX

’15 Subaru WRX

Among much fanfare and bursts of steam, Subaru of America unveiled the ’15 WRX—a more powerful and better-handling version of the brand’s high-performance model. Powered by a new 268-hp 2.0L direct-injection turbo boxer engine, the ’15 WRX debuts the model’s first six-speed manual transmission and a new, optional performance automatic transmission—the Sport Lineartronic with two manual modes. Seventeen-inch wheels are standard.

The world debut of the ’15 WRX marks an evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car. The WRX will employ a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and allows for improved cornering speeds and handling. The new powertrain also yields higher fuel efficiency than the previous model. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comfort and materials and a wide array of new user technologies were included to give the new WRX a more refined feel.

Six-time Olympic Gold Medal winner Usain Bolt (left) helped Nissan's Fred Diaz introduce the ’15 GT-R Nismo.

Nissan GT-R NISMO

Nissan emphasized performance by making the North American debut of the most powerful Nissan GT-R supercar ever—the GT-R NISMO. As the fourth model in the ’15 GT-R lineup, along with the GT-R Premium, Black Edition and Track Edition, the GT-R NISMO features extensive engine, suspension, exterior and interior enhancements. It is scheduled to be available later in 2014, following the January on-sale date of the other ’15 GT-R models. Nissan spokesperson Fred Diaz said that the GT-R NISMO would offer 600hp and be capable of blistering acceleration.

The new GT-R was joined at a press conference by the world debut of a custom-built Sentra NISMO Concept and the debut of the production version of the new ’14 Nissan JUKE NISMO RS.
 
The press conference also featured a surprise appearance by Usain Bolt—six-time Olympic Gold Medal winner and 100-meter world record holder. Bolt, who owns a special gold-painted Nissan GT-R, assisted Diaz in revealing the new GT-R NISMO.

	’15 Kia K900

Kia’s Big Step

Marking 20 years in the U.S. market, Kia Motors America (KMA) took the wraps off its new flagship amid a packed house of media representatives from around the world at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new ’15 K900 is designed to challenge the fullsize rear-drive luxury sedan segment with an extensive list of standard equipment, world-class accommodations and refined design that will redefine consumer perception and expectations of the Kia brand.

The K900 will be offered with a V6 or V8 engine. The range-topping V8 equipped with the VIP Package will add luxury amenities, including reclining outboard rear seats. The K900 Premium V6 will launch with an available Luxury Package and Technology Package. The all-new K900 is expected to go on sale during the first quarter of 2014; pricing will be announced closer to launch.

SRT Viper GTS

Viper GTS Limited Edition

The Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand announced it will produce an exclusive, limited-run Anodized Carbon Special Edition package for the SRT Viper GTS model.

Under the hood is the handcrafted, all-aluminum 8.4L, mid-front V10 overhead-valve engine. Performance ratings are 640 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque—the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world, according to the Chrysler Group.

Part of the special-edition package is the new metallic matte exterior color that is being used for the first time by the Chrysler Group to add to the exclusivity of the SRT Viper.

A limited-production run of 50 Viper GTS models with the Anodized Carbon Special Edition Package begins in January 2014 at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit.

	Galpin Ford GTR1

1,024 HP Galpin Ford GTR1

Building on Galpin Ford’s 60 years of customizing vehicles, Galpin showed the GTR1—an ultra-high-performance mid-engine supercar based on the Ford GT. The hand-crafted all-aluminum body was constructed by concept car builder Metalcrafters. Notable components include Pirelli P-Zero tires, six-piston brakes with full carbon rotors, and 20-in. forged aluminum knock-off wheels. The car is powered by a twin-curbocharged 5.4L V8 engine that produces an estimated 1,024 hp and 739 lb.-ft. of torque. The transmission is a six-speed manual with dual clutch. The car is said to be capable of 0–60 acceleration in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 225 mpg. According to Galpin, GTR1 will be extremely limited in production, with a choice of aluminum or carbon-fiber bodies.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Formula DRIFT to Launch World Championship in 2015
Following the recent announcement of the merger between Formula DRIFT USA and Asia operations, Formula DRIFT has announced a World Championship series slated for 2015. Formula DRIFT will begin to operate a world championship that will be an integration of the Formula DRIFT USA and Formula DRIFT Asia operations. Current Formula DRIFT USA and Formula DRIFT Asia Pro Championships will continue to run as is, with the World Championship as the over-arching pinnacle.

Starting in 2014, Formula DRIFT will merge its USA and Asia operations with a global headquarters in Long Beach, California, and a regional office in Singapore. The merger comes after six years of successful event operations in Asia taking the Formula DRIFT Asia Championship Series to Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and earlier this year, Australia. The Formula DRIFT licensor, Driftpac, will remain an integral part of the Formula DRIFT events in Asia and will continue to assist in expansion of the brand, but the Formula DRIFT global operations will begin to operate each event internationally as it does with the USA Series.

In 2015, Formula DRIFT will consider some or all of the events on the Formula DRIFT USA and Formula DRIFT Asia calendar as well as possible new host venues into a points championship that will include events on at least three continents. The Formula DRIFT USA and Asia Series will still operate status quo but the new Formula DRIFT World Championship will be created to sit on top of both of the existing series as the first global championship for drifting. The World Championship will also have its own prize purse, media package and champion. Drivers that are currently competing in both series include Daigo Saito, Robbie Nishida, Fredric Aasbo and Ken Gushi.

2014 Summit Racing Show Car Series Schedule Announced
The 2014 Summit Racing Show Car Series schedule is now available. The Summit Racing Show Car Series is the place to see custom cars, trucks, motorcycles, hot rods, race vehicles, antique cars and other vehicles at indoor shows from Houston to Calgary. The Summit Racing Show Car Series will include an International Show Car Association (ISCA)-sanctioned competition. Contestants can also compete for several additional awards, such as the Detroit AutoRama’s Ridler Award.

2014 Summit Racing Show Car Series Schedule

• November 28–December 1: AutoRama, Houston
• January 10–12: Cavalcade of Customs, Cincinnati
• January 24–26: World of Wheels, Pittsburgh
• February 7–9: World of Wheels, Indianapolis and New Orleans
• February 14–16: World of Wheels, Dallas and Kansas City
• February 21–23: World of Wheels, Calgary and Milwaukee
• February 28–March 2: World of Wheels, Chicago
• March 7–9: Detroit AutoRama, Detroit
• March 14–16: Summit Racing I-X Piston Powered Autorama, Cleveland, and World of Wheels, Winnipeg
• March 21–23: World of Wheels, Salt Lake City
• March 28–30: World of Wheels, Omaha, Nebraska, and Boston

For more information on the Summit Racing Show Car Series and AutoRama events, visit www.Autorama.com.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Formula DRIFT to Launch World Championship in 2015
Following the recent announcement of the merger between Formula DRIFT USA and Asia operations, Formula DRIFT has announced a World Championship series slated for 2015. Formula DRIFT will begin to operate a world championship that will be an integration of the Formula DRIFT USA and Formula DRIFT Asia operations. Current Formula DRIFT USA and Formula DRIFT Asia Pro Championships will continue to run as is, with the World Championship as the over-arching pinnacle.

Starting in 2014, Formula DRIFT will merge its USA and Asia operations with a global headquarters in Long Beach, California, and a regional office in Singapore. The merger comes after six years of successful event operations in Asia taking the Formula DRIFT Asia Championship Series to Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and earlier this year, Australia. The Formula DRIFT licensor, Driftpac, will remain an integral part of the Formula DRIFT events in Asia and will continue to assist in expansion of the brand, but the Formula DRIFT global operations will begin to operate each event internationally as it does with the USA Series.

In 2015, Formula DRIFT will consider some or all of the events on the Formula DRIFT USA and Formula DRIFT Asia calendar as well as possible new host venues into a points championship that will include events on at least three continents. The Formula DRIFT USA and Asia Series will still operate status quo but the new Formula DRIFT World Championship will be created to sit on top of both of the existing series as the first global championship for drifting. The World Championship will also have its own prize purse, media package and champion. Drivers that are currently competing in both series include Daigo Saito, Robbie Nishida, Fredric Aasbo and Ken Gushi.

2014 Summit Racing Show Car Series Schedule Announced
The 2014 Summit Racing Show Car Series schedule is now available. The Summit Racing Show Car Series is the place to see custom cars, trucks, motorcycles, hot rods, race vehicles, antique cars and other vehicles at indoor shows from Houston to Calgary. The Summit Racing Show Car Series will include an International Show Car Association (ISCA)-sanctioned competition. Contestants can also compete for several additional awards, such as the Detroit AutoRama’s Ridler Award.

2014 Summit Racing Show Car Series Schedule

• November 28–December 1: AutoRama, Houston
• January 10–12: Cavalcade of Customs, Cincinnati
• January 24–26: World of Wheels, Pittsburgh
• February 7–9: World of Wheels, Indianapolis and New Orleans
• February 14–16: World of Wheels, Dallas and Kansas City
• February 21–23: World of Wheels, Calgary and Milwaukee
• February 28–March 2: World of Wheels, Chicago
• March 7–9: Detroit AutoRama, Detroit
• March 14–16: Summit Racing I-X Piston Powered Autorama, Cleveland, and World of Wheels, Winnipeg
• March 21–23: World of Wheels, Salt Lake City
• March 28–30: World of Wheels, Omaha, Nebraska, and Boston

For more information on the Summit Racing Show Car Series and AutoRama events, visit www.Autorama.com.

The shooters at KGP Photography just got their first look at the ’15 Nissan Murano, resulting in interior and exterior shots of the all-new crossover.

Styling Breakdown—Compared to Nissan Resonance Crossover Concept

Despite the camouflage, it's  apparent that the next Murano will take design cues straight from the Nissan Resonance concept crossover that debuted at the last North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The prototype shares the concept's rising belt line and the prominent side shelf that stretches from the taillights, all the way up to a roll into the front fender and hood line. Further similarities are found around the rear wheel arch, with the Murano prototype showing signs of the concept's strong swell over the rear wheel arch, which continues into the crossover's midsection.

The Resonance concept's rear surface development was very complex, and it looks to have been toned-down a bit on the Murano prototype. Still, there are more signs of the concept's inspiration in the Murano's rear-end styling, with taillights that appear to begin sweeping back upward into the prototype's C-pillar—just as it does on the Resonance concept.

The Murano prototype's front fascia appears to have a sharply chiseled grille design similar to that found on the latest Nissan Rogue. Again, the Murano prototype gets a significantly toned-down version of the concept's front fascia.

Prototype Interior

The Murano's interior reveals a portion of the crossover's center stack that is dominated by a large LCD screen at the top of the dashboard. Prominent brushed aluminum accents can be seen on interior, both on the outer edges of the instrument binnacle, and also defining the outer edges of the center stack.  

Signs of Plug-In Hybrid?

The prototype has what appears to be a circular access door hidden within the black camouflage on its front fender, just ahead of the A-pillar. There are reports of a 2.5L four-cylinder with a lithium-ion battery, providing the usual performance bump while maintaining a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine. To date, there are no reports of a plug-in hybrid system.

Production of the ’15 Murano will reportedly be shifted to Nissan's Canton, Mississippi, manufacturing plant, with a build date destined for sometime in the next calendar year.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

The shooters at KGP Photography just got their first look at the ’15 Nissan Murano, resulting in interior and exterior shots of the all-new crossover.

Styling Breakdown—Compared to Nissan Resonance Crossover Concept

Despite the camouflage, it's  apparent that the next Murano will take design cues straight from the Nissan Resonance concept crossover that debuted at the last North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The prototype shares the concept's rising belt line and the prominent side shelf that stretches from the taillights, all the way up to a roll into the front fender and hood line. Further similarities are found around the rear wheel arch, with the Murano prototype showing signs of the concept's strong swell over the rear wheel arch, which continues into the crossover's midsection.

The Resonance concept's rear surface development was very complex, and it looks to have been toned-down a bit on the Murano prototype. Still, there are more signs of the concept's inspiration in the Murano's rear-end styling, with taillights that appear to begin sweeping back upward into the prototype's C-pillar—just as it does on the Resonance concept.

The Murano prototype's front fascia appears to have a sharply chiseled grille design similar to that found on the latest Nissan Rogue. Again, the Murano prototype gets a significantly toned-down version of the concept's front fascia.

Prototype Interior

The Murano's interior reveals a portion of the crossover's center stack that is dominated by a large LCD screen at the top of the dashboard. Prominent brushed aluminum accents can be seen on interior, both on the outer edges of the instrument binnacle, and also defining the outer edges of the center stack.  

Signs of Plug-In Hybrid?

The prototype has what appears to be a circular access door hidden within the black camouflage on its front fender, just ahead of the A-pillar. There are reports of a 2.5L four-cylinder with a lithium-ion battery, providing the usual performance bump while maintaining a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine. To date, there are no reports of a plug-in hybrid system.

Production of the ’15 Murano will reportedly be shifted to Nissan's Canton, Mississippi, manufacturing plant, with a build date destined for sometime in the next calendar year.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

The shooters at KGP Photography just got their first look at the ’15 Nissan Murano, resulting in interior and exterior shots of the all-new crossover.

Styling Breakdown—Compared to Nissan Resonance Crossover Concept

Despite the camouflage, it's  apparent that the next Murano will take design cues straight from the Nissan Resonance concept crossover that debuted at the last North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The prototype shares the concept's rising belt line and the prominent side shelf that stretches from the taillights, all the way up to a roll into the front fender and hood line. Further similarities are found around the rear wheel arch, with the Murano prototype showing signs of the concept's strong swell over the rear wheel arch, which continues into the crossover's midsection.

The Resonance concept's rear surface development was very complex, and it looks to have been toned-down a bit on the Murano prototype. Still, there are more signs of the concept's inspiration in the Murano's rear-end styling, with taillights that appear to begin sweeping back upward into the prototype's C-pillar—just as it does on the Resonance concept.

The Murano prototype's front fascia appears to have a sharply chiseled grille design similar to that found on the latest Nissan Rogue. Again, the Murano prototype gets a significantly toned-down version of the concept's front fascia.

Prototype Interior

The Murano's interior reveals a portion of the crossover's center stack that is dominated by a large LCD screen at the top of the dashboard. Prominent brushed aluminum accents can be seen on interior, both on the outer edges of the instrument binnacle, and also defining the outer edges of the center stack.  

Signs of Plug-In Hybrid?

The prototype has what appears to be a circular access door hidden within the black camouflage on its front fender, just ahead of the A-pillar. There are reports of a 2.5L four-cylinder with a lithium-ion battery, providing the usual performance bump while maintaining a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine. To date, there are no reports of a plug-in hybrid system.

Production of the ’15 Murano will reportedly be shifted to Nissan's Canton, Mississippi, manufacturing plant, with a build date destined for sometime in the next calendar year.

Photo credit: KGP Photography

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Transport Canada has updated its tire standards to harmonize them with counterpart standards in the United States. Canada’s Motor Vehicle Tire Safety Regulations, 1995 (MVTSR, 1995) are being revised and relocated within the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS). The new standards will also allow enforcement of winter tire standards if manufacturers place the peaked mountain with a snowflake symbol on their tires. The new rules take effect on September 1, 2014. 

For more information, please contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Transport Canada has updated its tire standards to harmonize them with counterpart standards in the United States. Canada’s Motor Vehicle Tire Safety Regulations, 1995 (MVTSR, 1995) are being revised and relocated within the Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS). The new standards will also allow enforcement of winter tire standards if manufacturers place the peaked mountain with a snowflake symbol on their tires. The new rules take effect on September 1, 2014. 

For more information, please contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.