Infiniti QX56 (QX80) and Nissan Patrol Get Minor Updates

 I have to say I like Infiniti's old vehicle naming convention a lot better than its new one.  With the 25, 35, 37, 56, etc. nomenclature I immediately knew what powerplant was under the hood.  Now that they have gone to the 50, 60, 80 and M (? why?) designations, it tells me little about the actual internals of the vehicle.  I suppose I may grow used to it...but not yet.

That said, the Infiniti QX80 (formerly the QX56), still with the VK56 engine found in the Titan receives some minor updates for '14.  As this vehicle is highly similar to the overseas Nissan Patrol--though more upscale and with some lighter, less durable suspension components, the changes are exhibited there as well.  Visible are the new LED headlights and updated bumper/grille.  There are a host of new internal options (steering wheel, seat cover options) and a new "black" package that is seen below with the matte grille.

All in all, very minor updates and nothing mechanical.  At least the Arabs will be happy to have some new options!

2014 Nissan Rogue Spotted!!

 Heavily camouflaged but still exhibiting a sleeker, lower form--much like the Infiniti crossovers, the next gen Rogue also looks a bit longer as well.  The Rogue has been a big seller for Nissan in the US and this looks to continue with this model giving consumers more of what they like about it as a small-ish, inexpensive-ish wagon without wagon looks.

In Canada and elsewhere this will likely be dubbed the "X-Trail" or "Dualis" replacing a more rugged model in those markets and streamlining another section of Nissan's product line.  These photos were taken in Death Valley during hot weather testing--thus the need for the Uhaul trailer to put additional stress on the vehicle in real world conditions.  Additionally, the next generation Rogue will reportedly have a hybrid gas/electric drive option--a first for a Nissan SUV/crossover I believe.