The choice for crossover buyers in Canada is about to get even tougher. On the show floor at the Jacob Javits Center, a small fleet of new models made their global debuts, including the latest offerings from BMW, Mini and Nissan.
2015 BMW X4
The X4 is a scaled-down of the company’s X6 “crossover-coupe” and largely the same as the concept version that we first saw at last year’s Auto Shanghai. This mid-size crossover arrives in Canada later this year in two different forms—one powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder, the other by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6. All models will be equipped with all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Mini Cooper Countryman
In 2010, the Countryman is the model that pushed the brand into the crossover segment for the first time. Four years later, a mildly revised version of the Countryman has hit the mean streets, ready to do battle with the competition. This new release features minor changes to the front grille, LED fog lights and new wheel offerings.
Three Mini Models
2015 Nissan Murano
Over in the land of Nissan, the Japanese manufacturer is clearly undergoing a design renaissance. At the Canadian International AutoShow in February, we saw the Nissan Sports Sedan Concept, a dramatic departure from a styling perspective. Here in New York, the klieg lights are shining on the all-new Nissan Murano, a crossover that shares some of that concept’s visually arresting lines.
Murano
Scheduled to hit showroom floors late this year, the third-generation Murano will be powered by the manufacturer’s redoubtable 3.5-litre V6 (260 hp; 240 lb-ft). Something tells us that this won’t be the only engine offered, though, as the styling hints at the (completely unconfirmed) possibility of an even higher-performing sports-SUV variant. The new Murano promises improved fuel efficiency through improved aerodynamics, reduced weight, improved aerodynamics and more frugal Xtronic CVT.