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Audi is refreshing the A5 model series. Advanced technologies are being added to the Sportback, Coupé, Cabriolet and S5 models in the areas of the engine, quattro drive and infotainment for even more efficiency, sportiness and intelligence. The updated design visually underscores the technical expertise involved in these versions.

The Audi A5 models are now more distinctive than ever. The rear lights and the headlights have been redesigned and are optionally available in xenon plus technology with homogenous LED daytime running lights. New colors and materials accentuate the interior, and many details of the operating concept have been fine-tuned.

Each of the four TDI diesel and three TFSI gasoline units in the new engine lineup include forced induction and direct fuel injection. The new 1.8 TFSI features a number of groundbreaking innovations. Fuel consumption has been reduced by 11 percent on average. The start-stop system and the recuperation system come standard with all engine-transmission configurations.

Each engine is matched with the ideal drivetrain - six-speed manual, multitronic, seven-speed S tronic, front-wheel drive or quattro drive। When combined with S tronic, the quattro drivetrain uses the crown-gear center differential and torque vectoring; the sport differential is the perfect complement. The chassis has been more finely tuned, with the optional Audi drive select system and dynamic steering making the Audi A5 even more fun to drive. The electromechanical power steering is new to the Audi A5 family.

The new A5 is a highly intelligent car. Its driver assistance systems have undergone intensive further development. The range of infotainment options now includes the Bluetooth online car phone, which delivers a number of special services and connects the Audi A5 to the Internet.

Exterior design and body

Ever since their debut, the models of the Audi A5 family - the Sportback, Coupé and Cabriolet - have impressed with their elegance. The flowing silhouettes, the sharp lines and the muscular surfaces make strong statements. The product improvement adds sharp new accents to the design.

The upper corners of the single-frame grille in high-gloss black are beveled. The grille's lateral bars and the Audi rings appear to be sculpted. The new bumper features pronounced air inlets with massive struts, revamped grilles and flat fog lights. Sharply chiseled edges give the engine hood a three-dimensional look; the entire front end appears even flatter and wider.

The headlights have also been updated. Their lower edge forms a wave; their interior has been restructured. With the optional xenon plus headlights, the LED daytime running lights form a narrow, homogenous clasp framing the headlight. Audi also offers the adaptive light system with dynamic cornering light and turning light. The rear lights have also been redesigned and are optionally available with continuous LED light strips. The bumper includes a number of additional details.

The product improvement has added a millimeter (0.04 in) to each of the exterior dimensions. The Audi A5 Sportback is 4.71 meters (15.45 ft) long; the Coupé and the Cabriolet 4.63 meters (15.19 ft). The range of colors has been reshuffled and now comprises 16 colors. The fully automatic acoustic top of the Audi A5 Cabriolet is available in four colors. The S line exterior package is available for those who appreciate an even more dynamic look.

The vehicle bodies impress with high rigidity, outstanding crash safety, high vibrational comfort and low weight. The front fenders are made of aluminum for improved axial load distribution. Aerodynamic fine-tuning measures include a lined underbody.

Interior design

A harmonious balance of proportions and surfaces, fine materials and top-quality fit and finish: The interior of the Audi A5 models reflects the Audi brand culture. It is now more elegant than ever - with new steering wheels, including an option for a flattened ring, new steering column stalks and with narrow chrome clasps framing the control elements.

A button is used to directly adjust the optional seat heating and seat ventilation in three stages. Also updated were the ignition key, the selector lever for the automatic transmission, the button for the optional Audi drive select system and the controls of the high-efficiency air conditioning and multifunction steering wheel. All displays are now illuminated in white.

New paint covers the bezels on the instrument cluster and the center console, and there is also a new selection of upholstery and inlays. The latter are available in Aluminium Trigon or in walnut or natural fine grain ash. Almost all of the interior colors are new. Fine Nappa leather replaces Valcona in the Sportback, and the armrests can also be covered in leather, if desired. The Audi A5 Sportback is also now optionally available as a five-seater.

Another attractive option is the S line sport package. It drapes the interior in black and accentuates it with elegant applications. A sport suspension lowers the vehicle body by 10 millimeters (0.39 in), and 18-inch wheels round out the package. Buyers looking for that special something will find many more customization options in the Audi exclusive range, including the stylish Audi exclusive line with two-tone seat coverings.

Engines

The Audi A5 family sets new standards for sportiness and efficiency. All engines feature forced induction and direct injection for tremendous pulling power. Even the entry-level engine produces 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. The start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard with all engines - no other manufacturer takes such a rigorous approach. The lineup comprises three gasoline engines and four TDI units. CO2 emissions have been reduced by as much as 22 percent.

The completely redesigned 1.8 TFSI showcases the full extent of Audi's expertise. Groundbreaking innovations can be found in the control of the valves and their lift, the thermal management concept, the injection system, the turbocharger and the integration of the exhaust manifold. In the Audi A5 Coupé, the high-end four-cylinder unit consumes on average just 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (41.27 US mpg). This best-in-class value corresponds to 134 grams CO2 per km (215.65 g/mile) and is 21 percent lower than before. With 125 kW (170 hp), the 1.8 TFSI accelerates the A5 powerfully.

The output of the 2.0 TFSI remains unchanged at 155 kW (211 hp). New to the Audi A5 lineup is the 3.0 TFSI, a supercharged V6 producing 200 kW (272 hp).

The diesel engines are also impressively efficient, and the four-cylinder units feature modifications in numerous areas. Equipped with the 130 kW (177 hp) 2.0 TDI and a manual transmission, the Audi A5 Coupé consumes on average just 4.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (50.05 US mpg) - a CO2 equivalent of 122 g per km (196.34 g/mile) and a milestone in the coupe segment.

Three V6 diesel units round out the lineup on the top end. The 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) is the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder unit in its class worldwide. In the Audi A5 Coupé with multitronic, it consumes on average 4.9 liters (48 US mpg) of fuel and emits just 129 grams CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile). The second variant of the 3.0 TDI produces 180 kW (245 hp). Arriving somewhat later is a particularly low-emissions clean diesel model that will make the Audi A5 the first coupe on the market to meet the Euro 6 diesel standard.

Drivetrain

Audi offers the ideal drivetrain for each engine. A manual six-speed transmission and the continuously variable multitronic are available for models with front-wheel drive. The quattro models come with a manual transmission or the lightning-fast, seven-speed S tronic. All of the transmissions shine with their convenience and precision, high efficiency and wide gear spread. The long ratios in the upper gears reduce fuel consumption.

Members of the Audi A5 family equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the S tronic transmission also feature the crown-gear center differential with torque vectoring. During normal driving, the mechanical component sends the engine's power primarily to the rear wheels. If necessary, it redistributes the power lightning-fast and smoothly. Up to 70 percent can flow to the front axle, 85 percent to the rear axle. Torque vectoring uses targeted, minor braking interventions to make the handling even more precise.

Available as an option in all Audi A5 quattro models, the sport differential provides for maximum precision and high traction. It uses two superposition stages engaged via multi-plate clutches to actively distribute the torque between the rear wheels as needed.

Chassis

The Audi A5 models set standards for sporty dynamics, luxurious ride comfort and excellent driving safety. Most of the components of the five-link front suspension and the trapezoidal-link rear suspension are made of aluminum. The rear suspension bearings and the damper tuning have been updated for more precise handling and even greater comfort.

The ESP stabilization program with electronic limited slip differential is standard in all front-wheel drive versions of the Audi A5. ESP uses minimal braking interventions at the inside front wheel for even more agility during dynamic driving. The large brakes - with ventilated front and rear discs in many variants - offer excellent stopping power and are very easy to modulate.

17-inch wheels with 225/50 tires are standard. Options include wheels up to 20 inches and 265/30 tires as well as four new wheel designs.

Among the high-end features in the model series is Audi drive select. In the basic configuration, it adjusts the power steering boost, the accelerator characteristic, the shift points of the automatic transmission and the automatic air conditioning. Using a button in the cockpit, the driver can determine whether these components should work in "comfort," "auto," "dynamic" or "efficiency" mode. The latter helps to drive the Audi A5 particularly efficiently. If the car is equipped with a navigation system, there is also an "individual" mode that the driver can largely configure him or herself.

Audi drive select can be combined with additional modules, if desired. These are the sport suspension with damper control, the sport differential and dynamic steering, which steplessly varies the steering ratio by nearly 100 percent as a function of speed.

Another new standard feature in the Audi A5 model series is the electromechanical power steering. An electric motor generates the right amount of boost for the speed being driven. The electromechanical power steering features a direct ratio, reacts instantly and provides precise road feedback. It intervenes slightly to support the driver when braking on a surface with less grip on one side of the car.

The system reduces fuel consumption by up to 0.3 liters per 100 km and up to 7 g CO2/km (11.27 g/mile) because it consumes no energy at all while driving straight.

Assistance systems

The assistance systems in the Audi A5 model series use a variety of technologies to make driving even more controlled. Some of them have been improved with new functions. Among the standard features is the new driver information system with recommendations to take a break. It uses steering motions and additional parameters to detect when the driver is getting tired and issues an appropriate warning.

Audi side assist supports the driver when changing lanes by using radar to monitor the space behind the car. Audi active lane assist - a new feature in the Audi A5 - helps the driver to maintain the lane. A camera detects the lane markings and the system makes slight corrections to the electromechanical steering, if necessary. The adaptive cruise control uses radar technology to maintain a constant interval between the Audi A5 and the vehicle ahead. At speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), it initiates maximum braking in the event of an impending collision.

Infotainment systems

The infotainment systems in the Audi A5 have been significantly upgraded. Audi equips all models in the A5 lineup with a CD radio and eight speakers.

The optional top-of-the-line unit is MMI navigation plus with a large hard drive, seven-inch color monitor, 3D graphics and DVD player. Its controls have been improved. The number of hard buttons has been reduced from eight to four and the volume control now features a joystick cap to make it easier to choose songs. Voice control and digital radio reception also received some fine-tuning.

An additional option is the Bluetooth online car phone. Audi connect is the catchword for the attractive services this phone brings to the A5, which include Google POI search, navigation with Google Earth images and a WLAN hotspot. The hotspot enables passengers to surf the Internet and send and receive e-mail with their mobile devices. Audi traffic information online is an additional service that does a much better job than the familiar TMC standard of providing the driver with extremely precise and current information about the traffic load along the selected route. All the driver needs to use these functions is a data-capable SIM card.

Prices

Despite the extensive product improvement, Audi is raising prices only slightly. The price increase for the Audi A5 Coupé 2.0 TFSI is only €200, for example. The base model, the Audi A5 Sportback 1.8 TFSI, costs €33,350.

The Audi S5

The top models in the series - the S5 as Sportback, Coupé and Cabriolet - have also been refreshed. All S5 models, including the Coupé, are now equipped with the 3.0 TFSI producing 245 kW (333 hp). Compared to the 4.2-liter V8 it replaces in the Coupé, the supercharged V6 consumes on average 20 percent less fuel per 100 kilometers. Average fuel consumption is just 8.1 liters (29.04 US mpg) while performance remains impressive. The S5 Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 4.9 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

Visual cues to the updated S models include new lights, modified body details and new crystal-effect paint finishes. Subtle changes can also be found in the interior. The most important technical updates for the Audi S5 are quattro drive with the crown-gear center differential and electromechanical power steering. The special S sport suspension and the standard 18-inch wheels deliver the power to the road.

Hyundai Veloster

2011-08-10T12:34:00.000-07:00

Hyundai introduced its cutting-edge Hyundai Veloster three-door coupe in a world debut at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. The 2012 Veloster delivers innovation to the compact coupe segment with a unique third door for easy rear-seat access, Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system, Pandora internet radio with seven-inch touch-screen display, and a new 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine mated to Hyundai's first dual-clutch transmission.

MOTORCYCLE INSPIRATION

Hyundai Veloster's unique design takes inspiration from a high-performance sport bike. Veloster has distinctive black A-pillars that give the glass a motorcycle helmet visor appearance. In the front is an aggressive form of Hyundai's signature hexagonal front grille, hood scoop detailing, and unique Hyundai-signature LED position lights. Optional packages add a chrome grille surround, piano black highlights, fog lights, and a massive panoramic sunroof.

In profile the Hyundai Veloster features "Fluidic Sculpture" character lines, muscular wheel arches, bodycolor door handles and mirrors, and wraparound headlights and taillights. Hyundai Veloster comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels and offers two types of 18-inch wheels. The top-of-the-line 18-inch wheel comes with painted inserts, a segment first.

Hyundai Veloster's dynamic rear design has a distinctive glass hatch, dual centered chrome exhaust tips and black lower fascia that complements the assertive front fascia.

Inside, the center stack and controls resemble a sport bike fuel tank and incorporate an available push-button starter. The air vents are inspired by motorcycle tailpipes, while the floor console mirrors the seat of a bike. Metallic accents abound throughout the interior. Alloy pedals and a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob are also available.

THE THIRD DOOR

Hyundai Veloster combines the style of a coupe and the functionality of a hatchback, while also incorporating an additional passenger-side door. In the past, some coupes have used smaller rear-hinged access doors. These coupes have always been compromised by having to open the driver-side door before the rear door could be opened, proving to be inconvenient for both the driver and passenger, and extremely difficult to operate in tight parking lot situations. Hyundai's fresh take here implements a conventionally hinged door on the passenger side of the Hyundai Veloster, providing safe and ready access to the surprisingly spacious rear seats. The passenger-side rear door handle is hidden to maintain the coupe design.

GAMMA 1.6-LITER GDI ENGINE

The all-new Gamma 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is the smallest Hyundai engine to use Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI). GDI technology helps deliver estimated highway fuel economy of up to 40 mpg, lower emissions and higher reliability.

"Gasoline-direct-injection technology allowed Hyundai engineers to create an engine that is powerful, fuel-efficient, and has fewer emissions," said Hyundai American Technical Center Inc. (HATCI) powertrain director, John Juriga. "Despite its small size, it generates some big numbers, with both impressive horsepower output and up to 40 mpg on the highway."

Through the use of GDI, the Gamma 1.6-liter engine delivers an estimated peak output of 138 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and maximum torque of 123 lb.-ft. at 4,850 rpm. But GDI is only part of the story as the new Gamma also features Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing, an electronic throttle control, a roller timing chain, variable induction and innovative anti-friction coatings such as CrN Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating and Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating.

NEW SIX-SPEED DUAL-CLUTCH TRANSMISSION

Hyundai's commitment to making the Gamma engine extremely fuel efficient continues by pairing it with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an all-new, six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) developed by Hyundai.

Hyundai's new DCT takes the benefits of a manual transmission, including low fuel consumption and sporty driving, and blends them with automatic transmission benefits, such as high comfort levels and smooth shift quality. In addition, the DCT enables direct connection for high efficiency and uninterrupted torque transfer during shifts. Automatic transmissions lose power and fuel economy in the torque converter.

Other improvements of a DCT over a traditional automatic include a five to six percent improvement in fuel efficiency as well as a three to seven percent improvement in acceleration performance.

Hyundai Veloster's DCT can be thought of as two traditional manual transmissions, each with its own clutch operating in parallel and alternating shifts. Hyundai Veloster is a six-speed with one clutch acting on gears one, three and five and the other used for two, four, six and reverse. This shifting process results in quick smooth transitions with none of the efficiency loss normally associated with torque convertors. The clutch actuator assembly features electric motors for actuation, and an external damper improves NVH.

This powertrain also has an Active Eco mode which modifies engine and transmission control for improved fuel economy that translates into more than a seven percent improvement in real-world fuel economy.

WORLD-CLASS WEIGHT EFFICIENCY

World-class weight efficiency is a program target for all Hyundai models. This strategy delivers outstanding fuel economy and performance simultaneously. At just 2,584 pounds, Hyundai Veloster is more than 400 pounds lighter than the Scion tC. This priority on weight efficiency allows the Hyundai Veloster to deliver a great combination of agility, performance, and fuel efficiency.

FUN TO DRIVE

The Hyundai Veloster is fitted with a McPherson strut front suspension, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and a 24 mm diameter front stabilizer. The rear suspension is a light-weight V-torsion beam, a Hyundai-first with an integrated 23 mm stabilizer bar to allow bracing of the arms for greater stiffness and to further control body roll. The rear suspension also uses monotube shock absorbers for ride comfort.

Hyundai Veloster features sport-tuned electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in. Hyundai Veloster's turning diameter of 34.1 feet is better than tC's 37.4 feet, CR-Z's 35.4 feet, Mini's 35.1 feet and Mini Clubman's 36.1 feet. Standard are 215/45HR17 tires on 17-inch alloy wheels. There are two optional 18-inch alloy wheels with lower profile 215/40VR18 performance rubber.

ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES: PART OF HYUNDAI'S ASSURANCE COMMITMENT

Veloster has an exceptional level of standard safety features for the sporty car segment. Hyundai Veloster has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS).

VSM works to control two effects. The first is when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry pavement on the other) and the vehicle wants to pull in one direction. VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist. VSM counters the pull and automatically provides eight Newton meters of counter steering. VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering.

Hyundai Veloster features six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags.

The Hyundai Veloster also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on vehicle loading conditions.

CONNECTIVITY/TECHNOLOGY

In the digital age everyone wants to be connected to their electronics at all times, so Hyundai Veloster comes standard with a multifunction seven-inch touch-screen display. At engine start-up, the screen comes to life with a Hyundai Veloster image and a unique sound. There are three interface layouts the user can choose from.

Pandora internet radio is integrated into Hyundai Veloster. The display screen has a Pandora icon to stream internet radio from an iPhone, Android or Blackberry. Pandora can also be viewed on the display screen and songs can be given the familiar Pandora thumbs up or thumbs down by pressing an icon.

Gracenote improves how Hyundai Veloster drivers access and manage their music through licensed cover art, enhanced voice recognition capabilities and "More Like This" automatic playlisting. Gracenote helps organize song metadata from a driver's music collection, and associates specific genre classifications (e.g. Indie Rock, R&B, Classical) with the identified tracks. This lets Hyundai Veloster drivers create targeted similar music playlists with a single button or voice command using Gracenote's Playlist Plus™ technology.

Gracenote MediaVOCS® technology improves the accuracy of the system's voice recognition capabilities for music search and navigation, letting drivers pinpoint bands, artists and albums with hard-to-pronounce names, irregular spellings and nicknames. For instance, Gracenote MediaVOCS helps the system understand artist names like Beyoncé and AC/DC. And drivers can use "The Boss" as a voice command to access tracks from Bruce Springsteen.

Gracenote also powers the Hyundai Veloster's 3D carousel of album cover art, producing a driver-friendly interface that makes it easy to search for music, select albums and display cover art during playback. The combination of these Gracenote technology features provides Veloster drivers a safe and easy way to manage and enjoy their music on the open road.

The head unit features virtual CD downloading which is like having a 10-disc CD changer on board. This feature allows for up to 10 CDs to be stored on the systems memory. The systems memory also allows for viewing and storing of jpeg images, AVI videos and Mpeg videos from a USB stick.

One of the display's unique features is an Eco Coach scoring system. This system acknowledges fuel-efficient driving with an eco rewards score and it accumulates points over time for a total Eco Score. The Eco Coach also provides instant fuel economy feedback so drivers can compare their average fuel economy with other Veloster owners.

With video games being an important element of entertainment, Hyundai integrated a USB jack, RCA jack and 115-volt power outlet in Hyundai Veloster to support gaming consoles for ultimate gaming sessions when in park.

Hyundai Veloster is available with two audio systems. Standard is a 196-watt AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. A 450-watt Dimension Premium Audio system with eight speakers including an eight-inch subwoofer and external amplifier is available. An XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the head unit and features channel logos and XM Data services, such as XM NavWeather®, XM Stock Ticker and XM Sports Ticker.

A Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition, address book download and audio streaming is standard. Touch-screen navigation is optional. The system also integrates a rear-view camera, which cannot be found on the CR-Z or tC.

HYUNDAI BLUE LINK

"Blue Link combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package that works to both help simplify Hyundai owners' lives and reduce distracted driving," said Barry Ratzlaff, director of customer satisfaction and service business development, Hyundai Motor America. "We've carefully studied how drivers rely on smart phones and navigation systems as an innovative link to the outside world. Blue Link brings that seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like voice text messaging, POI web search download, turn-by-turn navigation, and monthly vehicle reporting. Our agent-assisted advanced voice recognition system offers a 21st century solution to performing POI searches in the vehicle. This unique and innovative approach enables Hyundai to deliver fast, accurate searches and downloads of POIs to vehicles without the unnecessary costs of traditional operator-only type systems of our competitors."

As part of the Blue Link launch, Hyundai also will provide Blue Link Assurance on Blue Link-equipped vehicles, which includes core safety services for an introductory period. These key safety services include: Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) and Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, and Enhanced Roadside Assistance. After the introductory period, owners of Blue Link-equipped vehicles can choose to extend these and other services as desired. Blue Link package subscription fees will be announced this spring on Sonata.

Blue Link Assurance further expands Hyundai's industry leadership formerly established by Hyundai Assurance, the industry's most comprehensive suite of new-vehicle protection. Hyundai Assurance already offers a 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable bumper-to-bumper warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, 5-years complimentary Roadside Assistance, and Buyer Protection - a credit-protecting job-loss vehicle return program.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

2011-08-10T12:29:00.000-07:00

The most powerful, technologically advanced, high-performance Jeep vehicle ever - the all-new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 - arrives in the summer of 2011 with a combination of Jeep's legendary capability and utility, merged with the renowned advanced performance engineering from Chrysler Group LLC's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team.

Delivering outstanding driving performance in all conditions, and complemented by key SRT attributes - including functional, performance-oriented styling, world-class ride and handling, benchmark braking and race-inspired interior appointments - the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 broadens the Jeep vehicle lineup and builds upon the successful launch of the award-winning 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

"The all-new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the ultimate performance SUV, delivering a combination of Jeep capability and utility, world-class performance, luxury and refinement, and advanced innovative technology," said Mike Manley, President and CEO — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Jeep vehicles have long been known for their off-road capability. In addition to Jeep four-wheel-drive traction and utility, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 takes capability to a new level by giving driving enthusiasts extreme performance for the street and track.

"Our new benchmark performance SUV effectively broadens the Grand Cherokee portfolio, and will continue to draw new customers into Jeep showrooms," Manley added.

Designed and built using the proven SRT formula that raises the performance to astonishing levels, the new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 runs from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the mid-16 second range, can cover the quarter mile in the mid-13 second range, has a top speed of 155 mph, and brakes from 60-0 mph in 116 feet.

Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle receive one day of professional driving instruction from the Richard Petty Racing School as part of the SRT Track Experience, designed to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track. Sessions are held throughout the year at selected tracks.

Awe-inspiring powertrain

Powering the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is Chrysler Group's all-new 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 with Fuel Saver Technology that delivers an estimated 465 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque - an improvement of 45 horsepower and 45 lb.-ft. torque over the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces.

An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing delivers maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power across a wider and improved rpm band. Specifically, 90-percent of peak torque is available between 2,800 and 6,000 rpm, allowing for inspired standing starts and improved straight-line performance.

Standard Fuel Saver Technology and a new-for-2012 active valve exhaust system allows four-cylinder operation to engage over a wider rpm range, to deliver both improved fuel efficiency - an estimated 13-percent increase on the highway - and an extended range of approximately 450 miles on one tank of gas.

Standard steering wheel mounted paddle shifters join the standard AutoStick on the floor. Both are mated to a proven automatic transmission, allowing a choice of spirited shifting on the road and the race track. Both methods give the driver the ability to shift while the transmission controller calibration prevents situations that might over rev the engine. Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability

For 2011, all Jeep Grand Cherokee models boast an improved and refined on-road ride thanks in part to the vehicle's body structure. Torsional stiffness was improved 146 percent versus the previous model, for improved ride, durability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. The improvement is achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone, marking a 53-percent increase in spot welds, a 42-percent increase in arc welds and a 38-percent increase in structural adhesive.

With the new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8, engineers have improved handling even further.

The best handling Jeep vehicle ever - capable of .90 g on the skid pad - features a new SRT-tuned, adaptive damping suspension managed by the new Jeep Selec-Track system that interacts with several different systems (stability control, adaptive damping, transmission shift strategy, transfer case torque proportioning, Electronic Limited Slip Differential performance, throttle control and cylinder de-activation) to automatically tune the dynamics of the vehicle. Drivers can manually choose between five dynamic modes for specific driving conditions:

Auto: provides the most compliant ride and automatically adapts to any road situation using the adaptive suspension tuning
Sport: provides enhanced body control for a sporty, fun-to-drive ride for the street
Tow: provides a safe reduction in pitch and bounce for enhanced towing capability
Track: provides the high-performance, firm, "track-tuned" suspension option to lock down body motion for the ultimate handling experience
Snow: provides the most conservative dynamic mode, so the vehicle will safely stay in-line in inclement winter weather conditions

The standard Jeep Quadra-Trac active on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before slippage occurs. When tire slippage is detected, the Jeep 4x4 system can transfer up to 100 percent of available torque to one rear wheel.

The transfer case also enhances handling by proportioning torque between the front and rear axles to maintain the driver's intended path. The new Grand Cherokee SRT8 also features an Electronic Limited Slip Differential that eliminates rear wheel slip and improves handling.

The performance-tuned, fully-hydraulic steering system is improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and pump cooler. Revised gearing gives drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

New split 5-spoke, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels ride on P295/45ZR20 Pirelli PZero run-flat tires (standard All-season or available Three-season).

Rounding out the capability of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is a trailer tow rating of 5,000 lbs.

Outstanding braking

Chrysler Group's SRT vehicles are well known for their world-class braking. Stopping power for the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 comes courtesy of new SRT high-performance Brembo brakes with four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS).

Stopping distance performance of 116 feet from 60-0 mph is made possible by new red-painted, Brembo 6-piston (front) and 4-piston (rear) calipers, and vented rotors at all four corners measuring 15-inches (front) and 13.8-inches (rear).

Aggressive and functional exterior

The functional performance exterior of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 features the "planted" look of a high-performance sports car by being lowered 1 inch and adding new, SRT-exclusive, body-color wheel flares and side sill cladding.

A one-piece front fascia contains new LED multi-function daytime running lamps that result in an exclusive face for the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, while a body-colored front grille with a unique black screen background and chrome bezel inserts adds to the aggressive look.

The integrated lower front grille is painted in gloss black and a newly designed underbody belly pan features integrated brake ducting to improve cooling and fade performance. Completing the new front end is a newly sculpted hood with functional dual black heat extractors for added engine cooling.

At the rear, the SRT performance influence continues with a new liftgate spoiler that reduces drag and improves downforce. A unique one-piece rear fascia includes a separate air diffuser along with an available trailer receiver and access cover. New for the 2012 version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the dual-sport exhaust system featuring 4-inch exhaust tips.

Race-inspired and functional interior

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee's refined, luxurious interior takes on a performance feel in SRT8 form with race-inspired technology and SRT-exclusive appointments.

An all-new, leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel features a unique rim section with a flattened bottom surface - evoking a race-inspired cockpit - that showcases the SRT logo. Standard paddle-shift controls flank both sides of the new contoured palm rests while all audio and Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) controls are accessible from the horizontal spokes on the steering wheel. A power tilt and telescoping steering column also is standard.

SRT-exclusive Performance Pages are new for 2012 and show instant feedback on steering input measurements, horsepower, torque, 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking distance, g-forces, and one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times, along with expanded engine information.

New SRT-styled Nappa leather and suede seats, with sculpted bolsters and adjustable headrests, provide all the comfort for daily drives - and "grip" to keep the driver and passengers in place during spirited driving. The embroidered SRT logos and contrast stitching accent the two front seats. Heated (front and rear) and ventilated (front) seats are standard.

Carbon fiber accents are integrated into the instrument panel and door trim panels and new bright, racing style brake and pedal pads add to the high-performance look inside the cabin.

An available CommandView dual-pane sun roof provides twice as much glass surface than a standard sun roof and extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle.

The available Luxury Group package adds premium leather to the door trim panels, instrument panel and center console along with a power liftgate, adaptive cruise control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind-spot Monitoring.

Safety and security

Already a recipient of the 2011 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) 'Top Safety Pick' for the volume Grand Cherokee models, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 offers consumers 45 safety and security features including:

Active head restraints: Deploy in the event of a rear collision. Restraints are designed to reduce injuries by minimizing the gap between the head restraint and the passenger's head
Active turn signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for one second to indicate a lane change
Adaptive cruise control (ACC): The system decreases the vehicle's pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane, or when another vehicle pulls into the same lane. The system will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane. ACC will maintain a driver adjustable distance between the vehicle and the one in front of it, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic without having to continuously adjust settings
Advanced multi-stage air bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants
Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
Anti-lock brake system with rough-road detection: Anti-lock brake system capable of detecting if the vehicle is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. When rough road is detected on off-road surfaces or trails, ABS enters a different pressure control where it will hold the brake pressure for longer pulses
BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without belted front-seat occupants
Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes, or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the stopping distance
Brake Override: When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the car
Brake-traction control system (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s)
Child seat anchor system: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
Constant-force Retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt, and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner
Electronic roll mitigation (ERM): An extension of electronic stability control (ESC). Uses input from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering a potential roll situation, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed
Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle's path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver's intended path
Energy-absorbing steering column: The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off flow of fuel to the engine
Express Up/Down Windows: One-touch powered express up/down window button located on the front driver and passenger-side door
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Using forward-facing radar sensors, this system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts the driver so the driver can determine what action must be taken in order to prevent the vehicle from a collision
High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
Hill-start Assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released
Keyless Enter-N-Go: When an individual enters the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The vehicle will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition
Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant during impact, enabling air bags to work effectively
Navigation system: Voice-activated navigation system available with real-time traffic to provide precise guidance to destination through the use of global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology
ParkSense rear park assist system: Assists at low speeds in reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of audible warnings for the driver and has a display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) integrated into the instrument cluster
ParkView rear back-up camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains grid line to aid the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces or narrow areas. Also aids in lining up a trailer to the vehicle's trailer hitch, when so equipped. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse
Power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with memory: Allows steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver air bag, if deployed
Rain Brake Support: Uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry
Rain-sensing wipers: A driver convenience feature that automatically senses moisture on the windshield and activates wipers
Ready Alert Braking: Anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application
Rear Cross Path (RCP): In parking lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
Remote (fob) operated windows (front windows - down only): Enable an individual to cool down the vehicle passively by opening front windows remotely
Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
Remote start: Conveniently starts the engine and activates key comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
Rollover crash sensing: Senses a rollover and deploys seat belt pretensioners and/or standard full-length side-curtain air bags as needed
Seat belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant's head and torso
Sentry Key engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after a few seconds
Signal mirrors: Signal lamp built into the housing of exterior mirrors allows turn signals to be viewed from the front, as well as the sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians
SmartBeam headlamps: Headlamp system adjusts to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting
Standard full-length side-curtain air bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above side windows
Standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags: Provide enhanced protection to thedriver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat
Three-point seat belts: Front outboard seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts
Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system
Trailer-sway control (TSC): Reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions caused by crosswinds and traffic. The system monitors the vehicle's movement relative to the driver's intended path, then applies alternating brake pressure to slow the vehicle and then increases the pressure on one front wheel in order to counteract the sway induced by the trailer
Uconnect Phone: In-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows customers to talk on their Bluetooth compatible phone with your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The built-in phonebook sync feature automatically downloads as many as 1,000 phone book entries from supported phones, which can then be selected by simply saying contact name

Connectivity and Infotainment

New for 2012 is the available 825-watt, 19-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon that includes a 10-inch subwoofer for the ultimate in sound quality.

A wide variety of easy-to-use infotainment options are available with features that provide customers with seamless integration of consumer electronics, delivering drivers and passengers the conveniences of home and office.

Garmin Navigation and SIRIUS Travel Link are standard with the 430N AM/FM/CD/DVD radio. Also standard are a multitude of features including SIRIUS Satellite Radio and Uconnect Phone.

The available Vehicle Entertainment System (VES) includes a DVD player and rear seat overhead screen that deliver a variety of programming choices, with ports to connect games and media players with audio and video output capability, including iPod connectivity. The Media Center or the VES remote can control multiple screen inputs and each screen can play something different.

Honda Crosstour

2011-08-10T12:25:00.000-07:00

he 2012 Honda Crosstour approaches the crossover SUV formula from a distinctively sleek, sporty and fuel-efficient perspective while also maximizing the interior's cargo capacity, versatility and premium feel. For 2012, the official name becomes Crosstour, replacing Accord Crosstour (2010 and 2011 models).

The Honda Crosstour's exterior design emphasizes a bold, aerodynamic look that also conceals an accommodating rear cargo area with a large, lift-over tailgate. Premium interior styling, appointments and details extend from the passenger compartment all the way through the cargo area. An under-floor storage area in the rear of the vehicle adds functionality, while reversible cargo floor panels accommodate dirty objects.

The Honda Crosstour is available in two trim levels, the Crosstour EX and EX-L, with Real Time 4WD also available on the EX-L model. For 2012, new features on the Crosstour EX include auto on/off headlights, a rearview camera, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and USB audio interface. Two new colors are also available on all Crosstour models: Twilight Blue Metallic replaces Glacier Blue Metallic, and Basque Red Pearl replaces Tango Red Pearl.

The Honda Crosstour comes standard with a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for power and efficiency. The engine produces 271 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 254 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 RPM, while achieving an EPA-rated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 18/27/21 mpg on 2WD models. Meanwhile the Crosstour EX-L with Real Time 4WD delivers an EPA-rated city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 18/26/21

To maximize efficiency, the engine's VCM cylinder deactivation system is programmed to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders, based on current power requirements, and a technologically advanced 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment. For true utility-vehicle capability, the Honda Crosstour provides 6.2 inches of maximum ground clearance in addition to the available Real Time 4WD system.

Besides its new-for-2012 auto on/off headlights, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and USB audio interface, standard features on the Crosstour EX include projector-beam headlights, fog lights, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P225/65R17 all-season tires, a moonroof, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, chrome door handles, auto up/down driver and front passenger side windows and rear privacy glass. Inside are dual-zone automatic air conditioning with second-row ventilation, a 360-watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with seven speakers, steering wheel-integrated audio controls, a compass and outside temperature indicator, cruise control, an easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seatback, a hidden removable utility box and more.

Honda Crosstour EX-L adds 18-inch aluminum wheels with P225/60R18 all-season tires, leather-trimmed seating surfaces with heated front seats, a memory driver-side seat and memory side mirrors with reverse tilting capability, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, Kevlar cone audio speakers, front aluminum dome-type tweeter speakers, an auto day/night dimming rearview mirror, a HomeLink transmitter and a cargo privacy cover.

The Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System and the Real Time 4WD mentioned above are available together or separately on the Crosstour EX-L. The Navigation system includes a rearview camera with guidance lines integrated into the display.

Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional safety equipment on the Crosstour includes Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, and active front seat head restraints.

The Honda Crosstour is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts

Ferrari 458 Italia

2011-08-03T15:13:00.000-07:00

The readers of Automobile Magazine might think that we editors get to drive Ferraris frequently, but that is not the case. True, I've been to Maranello more than once, and I've driven more than one Ferrari on Ferrari's famous Fiorano test track. In fact, I attended the media launch for the 458 Italia back in November 2009 and stayed at a hotel that was across a roundabout from the Ferrari factory. [Here's what I had to say back then] However, we have plenty of editors and staffers who have never been to Maranello, among them copy editor Rusty Blackwell, who solemnly informed me that, in his entire six-year tenure at Automobile Magazine, we'd never had a Ferrari in the office test fleet. Thankfully, Ferrari North America Public Relations Manager Matteo Sardi sent a 458 Italia test car our way for four brief but brilliant days in mid-July. We made the most of it because this was a Very Big Deal here at 120 E. Liberty Street.

West coast editor Jason Cammisa, who has spent more time driving various Ferraris in recent years than anyone else on staff, just so happened to be in town when the Ferrari arrived, and he started off the week by giving motor gopher and University of Michigan undergrad Rich Otto a hair-raising ride through the streets of Ann Arbor that young Mr. Otto will not soon forget. Miraculously, this power-sliding escapade through an office park escaped the attention of the Ann Arbor police.

For my part, I drove the 458 Italia briefly around Ann Arbor, principally to show it off to a few friends, among them my running buddy Jim Zamberlan, who likes all things Italian even though he owns two German cars. He was duly impressed by the way the Italia looked at his curb, by its succulent interior, and of course by the sound of the engine. It's frustrating, though, to trundle through crowded city streets in a car like the Ferrari 458, which begs for the open road and the racetrack. So, a couple nights after the Ferrari arrived, I drove over to GingerMan Raceway in South Haven, Michigan, with road test editor Chris Nelson. We joined associate editor Eric Tingwall, who had come over in the Ferrari.

Having already driven the 458 for a few laps at Fiorano, I was already aware that it's a fine, fine track machine, but I forgot just how fine it is. It's not just the power, which is massive. It's not just the dual-clutch seven-speed transmission, which is one of the few paddle-shift gearboxes that I actually enjoy operating. It's not just the tremendous carbon-ceramic brakes, and it's not just the incredibly precise steering. Because, you know, there are lots of fancy sports cars and supercars that have many of these elements. But Ferrari brings all these attributes together with such finesse, and you really have to drive it on a track to expose its ultimate capabilities. Not that I was driving it anywhere near its ultimate limits, because I'm not that good a driver. The 458, though, will make you feel like a great driver whether you're at 6/10ths, or 7/10ths, or 9/10ths. And if you have the balls and the skill to take it to 10/10ths, you'll feel like a hero.

Now, I just need to drive the new McLaren MP4-12C and see if it makes me feel the same way.

Joe DeMatio, Deputy Editor

This was only my third time behind the wheel of a Ferrari, the last time being in April of 2005 when I drove a 612 Scaglietti for our test of twelve twelve-cylinder cars. Driving that Scaglietti, though, simply doesn't compare with driving this 458 Italia. The sound it makes as you run up through the gears, the instant-on throttle, and the razor-sharp steering, all combine to make driving this Ferrari a truly unique experience.

We happened to have a friend visiting from Sweden on the evening I drove the Ferrari, and he was more than happy to go for a ride as we explored the almost deserted two-lanes that run through farm country in the southern reaches of Washtenaw County. (He drives a taxi in Stockholm, so he was happy to be a passenger for a change.) With the car in race mode, acceleration to 60 mph and beyond took mere seconds, and the sounds coming from the exhaust were heavenly. After we got back, my neighbor pulled up to get a closer look at the Ferrari, so of course I had to give him a ride, too. (Purely for unselfish reasons.)

I've been reading about this Ferrari for almost two years now, but there's nothing like getting behind the wheel and experiencing it first-hand. Words can hardly do it justice. Suffice it to say that, even if it takes six years before I drive another Ferrari, I won't be disappointed.

So many things in life are over-hyped. Until I had my first time behind the wheel of a 458 Italia, I was afraid driving a Ferrari might be one of those experiences. Perhaps it helped that I first experienced a Ferrari on the 2.11-mile track at GingerMan. GingerMan isn't the most challenging road course in the world, or even in this state, but I've turned hundreds of laps there over the past few years so it's easy to jump into a new car and get to know the vehicle right away. I used my first lap to become familiar with the 458's incredible carbon-ceramic brakes and try to forget the $310,000 sticker price.

I told myself I'd take it easy in the Ferrari, but that's a relative term in a 578-hp supercar. Before I knew it I was topping 140 mph on the back straight and having the time of my life. With all of the advanced electronics on board the 458 Italia is as easy to drive as a Volkswagen GTI. The experience is totally different, but the results are the same: the car turns a novice driver into a star on the track. This will likely upset some enthusiasts who want to experience the crashing of a gated shifter entering and leaving each turn, but the fact is all the tech makes it much easier to prevent a real crash during those turns. Perhaps the experience of an old school Ferrari with a gated shifter and more finicky engine would be more visceral and rewarding, but the experience of a new Ferrari that will run hot laps all day long and never need more attention than adding fuel is amazing.

Phil Floraday, Senior Web Editor

Y'all are gonna kill me, but if I had to describe the 458 in one word, it would be clinical. The 458 is cold, calculated, and precise -- to the point of being a little charmless. Ferrari's mission is laptimes and speed, speed, speed. Personally, I wish the company would focus on different things (like driver involvement and fun) rather than precision, but I can't much fault this brilliant machine's execution.

Well, a little. I'm still irked that Ferrari refuses to program "automatic" mode for full-throttle kick-down, but I guess you shouldn't be driving a Ferrari in automatic mode anyway (which is why it shouldn't even have that mode). Like other direct-injected Ferraris, the fuel cutoff is abrupt, so cruising at low-load conditions (and even 70 mph in seventh gear is low-load for this monster motor) takes effort to prevent bucking. The exhaust bypass valves work overtime in city driving, opening and closing constantly -- I'd much prefer a driver-selectable override for "always open" or "always closed." And there are just too many buttons on the steering wheel.

And while I'm kvetching, the steering is incredibly fast and unrivaled in its precision and immediacy. But it's also completely numb and significantly overboosted. The sounds coming from the tailpipe are no longer music; they're noise. Insane, maniacal, violent noise. Amazing? Yes. Beautiful? No.

The dual-clutch transmission is pretty good, as far as automatics go. But pulling a paddle in a Ferrari is no more special than pulling a paddle in a Honda Fit. If you ignore the speed, the beauty, and the Ferrari factor, and just pay attention to how the 458 drives, you'd have a hard time convincing me that a Porsche Boxster isn't more fun.

But ignore the driver-car factor for a second, and concentrate on what Ferrari actually set out to achieve -- performance -- and the 458 is just absurdly amazingly mind-blowingly awesome. The brakes will rip your face off -- if it somehow managed to stay attached during acceleration. Handling balance is unlike anything else on this planet -- neutral neutral neutral. (For the record, the 458 will understeer at low speeds, but that's easily fixed with bags of power oversteer.) There is no bushing compliance or wallow or anything -- the 458 feels like a go-kart. Actually, it feels more like a go-kart than most go-karts do.

Except that the suspension copes even with Ann Arbor's miserable roads. The seats aren't cushy, but somehow are comfortable for hour-long trips. The leather and stitching are gorgeous. The steering wheel's rim is perfection in your hands. Nothing revs like a flat-crank V-8. And nothing takes your breath away like a Ferrari. Forget what I said, it's perfect.

Standard Equipment:

4.5-liter V-8

Dual-clutch 7-speed paddle-shifter transmission

Carbon-ceramic brakes w/high-performance ABS

Twin-wishbone front suspension, multilink rear suspension

E-Diff3

F1-Trac

Integrated ECU

Modular aluminum & alloy chassis

Keyless entry

Power windows & locks

Options on this vehicle:

AFS system- $1944

Red brake calipers - $1378

Rear diffuser in carbon - $8105

Carbon fiber driver area - $7132

Colored safety belt - $890

Carbon fiber dashboard - $6808

Front suspension lifter - $4539

Front wing in carbon - $3404

Ferrari iPod - $907

'Scuderia Ferrari' S - $1587

Electronic mirror - $740

Radio/nav system - $3404

Rear parking sensors - $1297

Sport sill cover - $1135

Racing seats - $7781

20-in. forged wheels w/diamond finish - $7294

Leather headliner - $809

Low-profile antenna - $731

Rear shelf leather upholstery - $2577

All stitching in color - $462

Special features - $16,864

Roof in Grigio Silverstone

PEXS in Grey

Red stitching all over interior except on dashboard

Middle stripe on racing seats in red leather

Red seat belts

Key options not on vehicle:

None

Fuel economy:

(city/hwy/combined)

12/ 18/ 17mpg

Engine:

4.5-liter V-8

Horsepower: 578 hp @ 9000 rpm

Torque: 398 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm

Drive:

Rear-wheel

Transmission: Dual-clutch, 7-speed F1

Curb weight: 3042 lb

Wheels/tires:

20-inch forged wheels w/diamond finish

235/35R20 front, 295/35R20 rear tires

Competitors: Lamborghini Gallardo, McLaren MP4-12C, Lexus LFA, Audi R8 V10, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

2011 Jaguar XFR

2011-08-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

This is one special kitty. The moment you take a seat behind the wheel, it is obvious that the old-world charm and attention to detail of classic Jaguars is still alive and well in 2011. The starter button glows red, pulsating like a heartbeat, and the interior comes to life in tandem with the growl of the 5.0-liter V-8 -- vents rotating, gauge needles sweeping, and rotary shift knob rising in a perfectly choreographed ballet. Twist the knob to "D" and pull away reveling in the delicious burble that the four-pipe exhaust emits. Hit the turn signal, and the blinker sounds similar to a finely-crafted English clock, ticking the time until you can make the turn and listen again to the sonorous V-8. All of the lighting coordinates together: the crisp blue-white of the xenon headlamps complements the ice-blue interior LEDs, the same blue used as an accent color on the multifunction touch screen. The XFR bathes its passengers in luxury and in the finesse found only in something very special; it is a precious item you never want to let go.

Donny Nordlicht, Associate Web Editor

Mazda MX-5 मिअता -2011

2011-08-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, is known for a lot of things, like excessive drinking during Little 500 week and a basketball team that used to be good, but what it's not known for is being a driver's paradise -- and that's because it's not.

Roads are flat, curves are rare, and heavy traffic leaves your right foot wanting. Use your imagination to transform a stoplight into your own personal drag-strip Christmas tree, and overzealous cops will get just as creative with the infractions on your ticket.

Why, then, would I drive our 2011 Mazda Miata MX-5 330 miles from Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Bloomington?

To start with, my girlfriend, Kenna, would probably tear me limb from limb if I never visited her. But if that were my only concern, a comfortable highway cruiser like our Four Seasons Honda Odyssey could've done the job. Why bring the Miata, a car that begs for back roads, when the quickest way to Bloomington is via interstates?

Because after spending four years at IU, I know there's a ribbon of driving perfection just a few miles east of the dull, police-ridden campus streets.

As a freshman Hoosier, I watched as Suzuki Hayabusas and Porsche 911s spilled back into Bloomington on their way home from neighboring Brown County. Brown County is the sort of place that evokes images of art, state parks, lakes, and the like for most people who've been there. Me? I think of its great roads.

When I first took my Mazda RX-8 into uncharted territory, I didn't know what to expect. But after that initial trip to Brown County, there was a little less tread on my tires and a lot more to look forward to on the weekends. It might not have any roads that are comparable to Tennessee's Tail of the Dragon, but it has one road in particular, State Road 45, that's not too bad for southern Indiana. My favorite stretch of 45 doesn't have any potholes, rises and falls organically, and winds and meanders from farmland to small towns to dense forest. There are no guard rails, there are lots of exciting -- and sometimes scary -- blind corners, and there's even a long straight with a large hump in the middle that has a knack for helping cars get airborne. It was the perfect proving ground for our summer Miata.

Which brings me back to my weekend with Kenna. Saturday morning was hot and humid, a typical southern Indiana July day. Kenna wanted to go to the pool. I wanted to drive the Miata to Brown County. She wouldn't budge. I begged. I pleaded. I finally bribed her with foot massages, and she caved. We dropped the Miata's top, sprayed on some sunscreen, and set off for the countryside in our little black two-seater. While I gushed about the Miata's excellent power-to-weight ratio, Kenna entertained herself by playing with her split-ends, completely disinterested in my jabber about the car's 167 hp and 2500-pound curb weight. Not to worry: I knew that the minute I found a place to swing the Miata's rear end around, my blase girlfriend would be as excited as I was. Hell, even the slightest glimmer of interest in our excursion would be welcome.

Unfortunately, a glut of Saturday afternoon drivers crawling along in Grand Caravans, snapping pictures of quaint farm homes on the side of the road, put the kibosh on my plans to show off for Kenna.

Ah, well. Idling along, I made sure the car would be ready to go if the road ever cleared, following the same routine I do in my own RX-8. Press the button on the emergency brake, just in case. Check. Go through the gears, making sure everything is copacetic. Check. Turn off the electronic stability control. Ch...oh, right, our 2011 model squeezes by before the government makes electronic stability control a must in 2012 models.

My pre-flight check ended just in time. By some divine fate, all the vans trundling along in front of us pulled off just as we came to the section of road with the humped straight. We were in business.

The stretch of pavement, bordered by white fences and fields of drowsy cows, came out of nowhere. I was in luck: there wasn't a single other car on the road. With a downshift to second and some tire chirp, the Miata's rear hunkered down as its nose lifted up. While this piqued Kenna's interest, she was still preoccupied by her hair. A quick upshift to third right before the hump made sure all four Yokohamas left the ground. That got her full attention. Rubber back on the tarmac, it was hard on the brakes, a little heel-and-toe, and back to second for a steep left. From there, State Road 45 became a blur of bends, valleys, crests, and slightly missed apexes. I was falling hard for our Miata.

The MZR-series, 2000-cc engine is responsive and smooth all the way up to its 7200-rpm redline. The close-ratio five-speed manual transmission shifts quickly and doesn't balk when you get aggressive. While there's more body roll than I'd like, the stock tires hold on in tough turns. Most of all, I love the MX-5's steering wheel. It's the perfect thickness, its center hub is simple and looks just right, and it isn't littered with a single gizmo or gadget. It's a steering wheel. And it steers damn well. Even the slightest finger flick is communicated with unerring accuracy and poise.

The unadorned steering wheel sums up everything I love about our bare bones Miata. No power locks, no cruise control, no satellite radio, just a machine that begs to be driven and never fails to make you smile. Even Kenna, who was very impressed with the car's composure during the beating I dispensed, managed a grin. She never felt like I would lose control of the Miata and let the rear end run off its short leash, even during some impromptu powerslides.

Still, Kenna and I found a couple of things we disliked about the roadster on our way back to Bloomington. Mazda says the Miata's exterior styling is functional and that the muscular bulge below the front fog lamps and wide air deflectors creates a low drag coefficient. We say the car is too worried about its machismo, and this generation's styling strays too far from the elegance of the first-generation Miata twenty-one years ago.

You can find a lot of little things to complain about, but if you do, you're missing the point। The Miata is, has been, and always will be a purpose-built automobile. That purpose is to be one of the purest, most enjoyable sports cars on the market. Give it a smooth road, good company, and great scenery, and the Miata takes care of the rest. On that, Kenna and I definitely agree.

ase price (with destination): $23,905

Price as tested: $23,905

Standard Equipment:

2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine

5-speed manual transmission

16-inch alloy wheels

Tilt steering wheel

Power windows

4-wheel disc brakes

Auxiliary audio input

AM/FM/CD radio with MP3 capability

Options on this vehicle:

Removable hardtop -- $3126

Key options not on vehicle:

Convenience package -- $1160

Fog lights

Remote keyless entry and retractable key

Power door locks

Cruise control

Steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls

One-touch-down passenger window

Trip computer

Silver seatback bars

Appearance package -- $1145

Front air dam

Rear skirt

Side sills

OVERVIEW

Body style 2-door roadster

Accommodation 2 passenger

Construction Unibody construction

POWERTRAIN

Engine DOHC 16-valve I-4

Displacement 2.0 liters

Power 167 hp @ 7000 rpm

Torque 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Transmission type 5-speed manual

Drive Rear-wheel

EPA Fuel Economy 22/28/25

(city/hwy/combined)

CHASSIS

Steering hydraulic power assisted rack-and-pinion

Lock-to-lock 2.7

Turning circle 30.8 ft.

Suspension, front Double wishbone, coil springs

Suspension, rear Multilink, coil springs

Brakes f/r 11.4-inch vented disc/11.0-inch solid disc, aluminum calipers; ABS

Wheels 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels

Tires Yokohama Advan A11A high performance summer

Tire size 205/50R16

MEASUREMENTS

Headroom f 37.4 in

Legroom f 43.1 in

Shoulder room f 53.2 in

Wheelbase 91.7 in

Track f/r 58.7/58.9 in

L x W x H 157.3 x 67.7 x 49.0 in

Cargo capacity 5.3 cu ft

Weight 2480 lb (with hardtop removed)

Fuel capacity 12.7 gal

Est. fuel range 356 miles

Fuel grade 91 octane (premium unleaded)

2011 Nissan Leaf: Plugged in

2011-08-03T14:55:00.000-07:00

On paper, the Leaf and I are a perfect match; I drive 35 miles round trip to work; I have no children so my vehicle doesn't need to double as a shuttle service; and I'm a bit of a homebody, so most nights I eat in or go for dinner at a friend's house, most of whom live within a few miles. But I view a car not so much as transportation but as a source of entertainment, so I was skeptical of the Leaf. Would it be able to satisfy my enthusiast side, or is it little more than a tarted-up golf cart? I start the week with an open mind, but I'm prepared to be disappointed.

In our parking structure, I unplug the Leaf for the first time and it feels strangely familiar. The action of unplugging and hanging the charging "gun" on the high output charger feels very much like using a gas pump. When I turn it on -- it doesn't sound right to use the term "started" when referring to an electric vehicle -- the range meter reads 110 miles. I thought the Leaf maxed out at 100 miles, so I'm already pleasantly surprised.

The range estimate doesn't change during my drive from downtown Ann Arbor to the highway, which is roughly three miles of typical urban streets. I'm instantly enamored with the light throttle and the immediate, lag-free acceleration. These characteristics, combined with the supple ride and overall impression of lightness -- as well as the faint whirring sound -- make me feel like George Jetson behind the wheel of his futuristic hovercraft. I wish I had a robot maid at home, too...

The highway is fairly clear, so I flatten the throttle to see what the Leaf is capable of. It's certainly not fast, but it accelerates so smoothly and quietly that it gives you the impression of speed. I'm instantly intrigued, so I keep it floored to see how fast it will go before it starts to fade. It begins to loose steam -- and seriously hemorrhage total range -- at about 90 mph, so I let off and settle my speed to a more reasonable 75 mph. When I reach my exit, the estimate is 80 miles but goes back up to 88 by the time I reach my house a few miles from the highway. I used 22 miles of range on a 15-mile drive, which is impressive considering that I pushed the little Leaf so hard on the highway.

The next morning, after a rare night without being tethered to an electrical outlet, the Leaf's range estimate has dropped to 87. My morning drive to the highway is comprised of 45 mph roads with few stops. I only use the brakes a handful of times, which really eats into the Leaf's range; it's down to 77 miles when I reach the entrance ramp. The highway is empty, so I pin the throttle to the floor and revel in the smooth, silent forward motion; a truly addicting sensation. I average between 70 and 75 mph on the ten-mile highway drive, and when I reach the charger in our parking structure, the estimate has plummeted to 45 miles. This 42-mile drop is nearly double what I experienced on my trip home on the same route the night before.

After a full day of work for me and more than nine hours on the rapid charger for the Leaf, the range has increased to 91 miles. I had been under the impression that the rapid charger was, well, more rapid and fully expected the range to have reached 100 without a problem. I'm not worried, though, as it is more than enough juice to run some errands on my way home. To get the Leaf more in its element, I skip the highway this time and take side streets to the grocery store.

The Leaf's sharply angled rear might prohibit carrying tall or bulky objects, but the cargo area is more than large enough for a week's worth of groceries. What's surprising, though, is that the Leaf is largely designed to be a city car used for running errands around town, but there are no tie downs for a cargo net or bag hooks to prevent delicate items from rolling around in the rear cargo area. I get around it by using reusable shopping bags that are stable enough to stay put. At this moment, I am the poster child for environmentalism.

Despite avoiding the highway, I still manage to take a fairly direct route home. Unfortunately, it's blazing hot outside, so I've been running the air-conditioning the whole trip, which has really chipped away at the Leaf's range. I arrive home with 63 miles showing on the range indicator.

My daily routine for the remainder of the week was similar। On the fifteen-mile, mostly highway drive, the Leaf used on average about 30-35 miles of range. I charged the Leaf every night at home and each day during work, so I never experienced any range anxiety. What I did experience was quite the opposite. While the Leaf is inherently unique in the automotive marketplace because of its propulsion system, it's also special as a vehicle in general, because unlike the majority of environmentally friendly cars it managed to put a smile on this enthusiasts' face again and again.

Standard Equipment:
16" aluminum alloy wheels
Portable trickle-charger cable
Front-seat side-impact air bags
Front- and rear-seat side curtain air bags
Stability and traction control
Tire pressure monitoring system
Electronic brake force distribution and brake assist
Vehicle security system
Cruise control
6-speaker CD audio system with audio input jack
USB connection port
XM Satellite Radio
Navigation system
Multi-function trip computer
Power windows & locks
LED headlights & taillights
Bluetooth hands-free phone system

Options on this vehicle:
Splash guards, $140
Floor mats & cargo area mat $170
Cargo net $20

Key options not on vehicle:
Internal-combustion engine (not offered)
Solar panel spoiler
Rearview camera
Auto on/off headlamps

EPA-rated range:
73 miles

Estimated charging time:
220-volt outlet: 8 hours
110-volt outlet: 21 hours
DC fast charge to 80%: 30 minutes

Powertrain:
80 kW AC synchronous motor
24 kWh lithium-ion battery
3.3 kW onboard charger
120-volt portable trickle charging cable
240-volt home charging dock
Optional 50 kW DC fast-charging port

Drive:
Front-wheel

Transmission:
Single-speed direct-drive

Curb weight: 3366 lb
Coefficient of drag: 0.29
Length x width x height: 175.0 x 69.7 x 61.0 in
Wheelbase: 106.3 in

Wheels/tires:
205/55R-16

2011-08-03T14:50:00.000-07:00

When Acura unveiled the ZDX prototype at the New York auto show in 2009, the company glowingly described it as a type of vehicle never before seen, something completely unique in the marketplace.

Our first drive of the ZDX a few months later revealed Acura's newest creation to be highly luxurious and even quite good to drive. But we still wondered about its place in the automotive cosmos. Clearly, we would require more time with the ZDX if we were going to get our heads around it. So, we ordered one for a Four Seasons test.

The ZDX does follow convention (Acura convention, at least) in its model hierarchy. There are three trim levels: base, Technology, and Advance. Prices range from the mid-$40,000s to the mid-$50,000s, and they're about $4000 higher than those of an equivalent MDX, which is similar in size but is more spacious and has more traditional styling.

The ZDX Advance is Acura's most expensive offering. As you'd expect, it's fully loaded, with a glass roof, heated and cooled front seats, navigation with traffic and weather updates, a rearview camera, a premium sound system, adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, a blind-spot warning system, the Integrated Dynamic System (which varies suspension firmness and power-steering assist), and Milano leather. That's the version we chose, as the ZDX is supposed to be all about personal indulgence.

The ZDX interior certainly is indulgent. The suedelike headliner, loop-pile carpet, and ultrasoft, natural-grain leather are quite rich-looking. Unfortunately, the leather did not prove to be very durable. It began to show wear, both on the driver's seat and on the back seats, before the odometer reached 20,000 miles. Apparently, there's a reason most manufacturers don't use such soft hides.

The ZDX's materials and design may be unusual, but its interior is highly usable. "This might be the most functional center stack/console ever," said associate web editor Donny Nordlicht. "There are compartments in all the right places for cups and keys, a handy BlackBerry slot by the driver's right knee, and a power outlet exactly where it needs to be."

The navigation system, Bluetooth, and stereo also came in for praise. "The navigation interface looks rather tired compared with some of today's sharpest displays," said senior web editor Phil Floraday, "but the system actually chooses the best routes and can take traffic into account, which makes up for the dated graphics." We also loved the joystick operation (rather than a touch screen) and the high level of detail showing the names of smaller streets. The Bluetooth also worked very well, and the Panasonic ELS audio system was "nothing short of superb" -- although you need to use DVD audio discs to get the full benefit.

We enjoyed the stereo and even the navigation system, but the most vital electronics were probably the backup camera and the blind-spot warning system. Said editor-in-chief Jean Jennings: "As much as I hated the annoying warning beep every time I signaled to change lanes when a car was approaching in my blind spot (which is the entire rear of the car), I didn't turn off the system because I could not see anything behind me, due to the swooping C-pillars, the low roof, and the big headrests." Given the mail-slot rear window, the backup camera -- which, helpfully, offers a choice of top-down and wide views as well as the conventional straight-back perspective -- is another essential. Even when you're looking straight ahead, the view out of the ZDX is not great because of its shallow windshield and low-mounted rearview mirror.

The ZDX's design makes seeing out difficult, but it makes getting in and out even more so. Associate web editor Evan McCausland explains: "I have to throw my legs up and over a tall sill while simultaneously ducking to avoid bonking my head on the roof." That's to get into the driver's seat -- rear-seat access is far worse. "We're small people," notes assistant editor David Zenlea, "but that didn't prevent my dad (five-foot eight) and my sister (five-foot one, in heels) from banging their heads when climbing into the back seat."

Once inside, you find a low seating position and scant headroom, even in front. As to the seats' comfort, we defer to associate editor Eric Tingwall -- he characterized them as "supportive without being hard and uncomfortable" after a thirty-eight-hour round-trip to Florida for the 12 Hours of Sebring race.

Part of the idea of the ZDX seems to be that rear-seat access and accommodations aren't that important, because the car will be used principally as a two-person conveyance. What this body style offers over a conventional coupe (you know: a passenger car with two doors) is the versatility of additional luggage space, but the fastback roofline and inward-sloping sides impinge on a cargo hold whose load floor is quite high. There is, however, a handy lidded bin in the cargo floor that is particularly useful for groceries and also provides the only covered stowage. If you want a cover for the main cargo area, that's a $352 dealer accessory.

Abarth Punto Evo esseesse -2011

2010-09-17T15:37:00.001-07:00

(from Abarth Press Release) Bolstered by the success of the recent conversion kits (one Abarth 500 in three is converted using the official kit), Abarth has expanded its range by launching the world premiere of the esseesse kits for the new Abarth 500C and Abarth Punto Evo models in Paris. These are designed to improve performance, handling and safety without having to sacrifice the car's low emissions and fuel consumption.

The stand will host two esseesse cars that perfectly illustrate the spirit of Abarth tuning, encapsulating substance and unassuming good looks: in accordance with brand tradition and market requirements, Abarth cars are a mix of sporty yet elegant looks and safe driving experience, yet always with sporty performance levels. The Punto Evo esseesse is in fact capable of 180 HP with truly thrilling performance levels: maximum torque of 270 Nm at 3000 rpm, top speed of 216 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds.

The Abarth Punto Evo esseesse is exhibited with a Campovolo Grey body, named after the airfield, still operational today, that is located opposite the company's historic headquarters in Corso Marche, Turin. This was where the young Karl Abarth used to buy paint for his cars, the very same Campovolo grey shade used for aircraft. In detail, the Abarth Punto Evo on show combines this particular colour with an Abarth band in the body shade and 18’’ alloys in a special titanium-coloured esseesse design. Inside, the car features Abarth Corse by Sabelt seats in black leather with a distinctly sporty design and an Abarth Blue&MeTM MAP satellite navigation system complete with telemetrics developed with Magneti Marelli.

These two models may be very different but they share a single spirit, the sporting spirit of the Abarth scorpion logo, which has proved itself capable of igniting the passion of thousands of motorists with a taste for challenge, performance and Italian style. In the words of the advertising slogan “More power to your senses”, on an Abarth car all your senses are stimulated to the maximum. The perception is further amplified by the two kits that guarantee even more driving performance and adrenaline: all in all, the Abarth conversion kits represent empowerment taken to its highest levels.

Abarth 500C esseesse-2011

2010-09-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

The stand will host two esseesse cars that perfectly illustrate the spirit of Abarth tuning, encapsulating substance and unassuming good looks: in accordance with brand tradition and market requirements, Abarth cars are a mix of sporty yet elegant looks and safe driving experience, yet always with sporty performance levels. The esseesse kit for the 500C turns the scorpion-branded convertible into a genuine open-topped sports car: 160 HP, maximum torque of 230 Nm, top speed of 209 km/h and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds.

The Abarth 500C esseesse comes with an elegant Campovolo grey and Pista grey two-tone livery with a white chromatic liner, an element that divides and at the same time combines the two ‘souls’ of the car: the elegance of a cabriolet above and the out-and-out sporty performance of the esseesse kit below. The 500C esseesse is exhibited with an original Record Monza exhaust silencer (dual mode with variable counterpressure) that enhances the engine sound above 4000 rpm and, as on the Punto Evo, with an Abarth Blue&MeTM MAP satellite navigation system with telemetrics.

Sportec Audi S4 Avant-2010

2010-09-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

(from Sportec Press Release) Sportec Audi S4 Avant: The Powerful Swiss Estate Car

An Audi S4 with its 333 compressor-PS is no mean thing on its own but the Swiss tuner thinks
differently and by applying specific techniques has pushed the vehicle from Ingolstadt way over the 400 PS mark.

A newly programmed engine control and the installation of a sports air filter coaxes a full 425 PS instead of the standard 333 PS from the three litre V6 compressor. The maximum torque has also been distinctly increased by improving the electronics. Instead of 440 a maximum 520 Nm can now be called upon. A plus factor that is noticeable in the driving dynamics. Whereas the standard Audi S4 needed 5,6 seconds to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h the Sportec RS425 only needs 5,2 seconds. At top speeds, though, they are equal as both vehicles are electronically blocked at 250 km/h.

However Sportec is not content with solely an upgrade. A special sports silencer with four end pipes - two pairs on either side right and left – provide a more sporty sound. A braking system on the front axles enlarged to 380 millimetres ensures improved braking power. On the other hand chassis clearance has been reduced as Sportec has fitted the Audi with a suspension kit shortened by a progressive 25 millimetres.

In addition the Sportec RS425 is fitted with 9 x 20 inch large lightweight metal rims surrounded by 245/30 tyres. The Audi S4’s new look is rounded off with a diffuser at the rear and a spoiler at the front, both of which are made of carbon.

Renault Wind-2011

2010-09-17T12:10:00.001-07:00

(from Renault Press Release) A BREATH OF FRESH AIR IN THE ROADSTER WORLD

The Geneva Motor Show sees Renault celebrate the world premiere of Renault Wind, a two-seater coupé-roadster of 3.83 metres in length which features a highly innovative way of opening. With its novel roof that pivots open extremely quickly, Renault Wind is a powerful call to freedom - bringing a completely fresh take on wind-in-the-hair motoring.

Renault Wind is aimed at drivers who lust after a car that is not only distinctive and compact, but also convertible yet practical enough for everyday use.

Although Wind’s compact dimensions make it a nimble machine in and about town, it is the only car of its class to provide just as much luggage space (270dm3 VDA) roof up or down.

A coupé-roadster for year-round use

• Unique body style: a two-seat roadster cockpit with a low-slung driving position, high waistline and shallow windscreen heighten the fresh-air feeling.
• The sporty and muscular profile provides a distinct identity, highlighted by blue-tinted headlamps and, at the rear, boomerang-shaped tail lights.
• A chassis fine-tuned by Renault Sport Technologies to deliver genuine fun-to-drive sensations.
• A choice of two engines: the fiery and flexible 133 horsepower 16-valve 1.6 from Twingo R.S., or the smooth and responsive TCe 100.

From coupé to roadster in just 12 seconds

• Twelve seconds: that’s all it takes to open or close Renault Wind – twice as fast as others in its class
• Thanks to the innovative roof concept, the generous 270 dm3 VDA of boot space – similar to Clio – is unaffected by the position of the roof. Roof down or roof up, you can holiday two-up in Renault Wind with no restrictions on the luggage you can take.

After making its world debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Renault Wind will go on sale in Europe this summer.

RENAULT WIND – IT WILL CHANGE YOUR OUTLOOK ON OPEN-TOP CARS

As an innovative, compact (3.83m) and practical coupé-roadster that’s tailor-made for user-friendly service, 365 days a year, Renault Wind brings fresh and original thinking to the convertible landscape.
Its low-set driving position and upright steering wheel positively urge you to fire up the engine and drive. Securely planted on its 17-inch wheels and with its high-waisted flanks, Renault Wind’s muscular and sporty silhouette is a powerful invitation to devour those twisty roads with the wind in your hair.
Distinctive headlights up front and the boomerang shape of the rear lights give it a unique lighting signature.

Inside, everything in the cockpit is focused on the job of driving. The instruments are recessed in metallic tunnels and circled with a touch of chrome, and the driver slips into a bucket seat, complete with built-in head rest and substantial side bolstering.

THE THRILL OF DRIVING A SPORTS ROADSTER

Renault Wind has the advantage of a platform that has been engineered by Renault Sport Technologies to provide outstanding steering precision and thrilling responses for the driver.

Renault Wind is available with a choice of two engines:

• The 1.6 16V, developed by Renault Sport Technologies. This engine produces 133hp (98kW) at 6,750rpm and torque of 160Nm at 4,400rpm. Its telltale, fiery pitch is a result of the special acoustic tuning techniques applied by the engine specialists to the exhaust system. Particular attention was focused on the four-into-one exhaust manifold to achieve the optimum trade-off between acoustic quality, emission control and performance.
• TCe 100: this smooth and responsive 100-horsepower 1.2-litre turbocharged engine is exceptionally economical and flexible (152Nm of torque at 3,500rpm). With this powerplant, Renault Wind is just as much in its element in city traffic as it is on a long motorway haul. With its integral rollover hoop, rigid roof panel and high waistline, Renault Wind is reassuring and safe, with a level of protection that’s among the very best in the convertible segment.

Renault Wind has generously-sized tyres (195/45 R16 or 205/40 R17) fitted to aluminium alloy wheels which house 280mm-diameter discs at the front and 240mm discs at the rear for powerful, fade-free braking performance.

FROM COUPة TO ROADSTER IN 12 SECONDS

Renault Wind needs just 12 seconds to open or close its roof, effortlessly. That’s twice as fast as the norm for its class. Its secret lies in inventive but simple kinematics that use very few moving parts. By cleverly stowing the roof panel below the boot lid, the purity of the exterior design can be maintained and the amount of useful boot space is unchanged, whether the roof is up or down. A boot cover protects the roof from dust and water when in the open position.

Clio-sized boot capacity

With a generous and easily accessible 270 dm3 VDA of boot space that stays the same whether the top is up or down, Renault Wind allows you to set off on holiday with all your luggage, confident that you can open the roof at will.

The boot opens with no more effort than would be needed for a conventional saloon or hatchback, a gas strut providing the necessary assistance.

A RANGE OF PERSONALIZATION OPTIONS TO MAKE YOUR RENAULT WIND TRULY UNIQUE

Customers can enhance the exterior of their Renault Wind with a range of styling options including a rear diffuser with twin tailpipes, front foglamp backing plates, chrome exterior mirror housings and a chrome finish for the bumps at the rear.

Wind's interior ambience can be personalized, too, thanks to a range of different instrument housing designs and door pulls, plus an alternative gear lever knob or pedal set.

A range of five body colours is available: Majorelle Blue, Pearlescent Black, Glacier White, Altica Grey and Dyna Red.

AN EQUIPMENT LIST TO SATISFY THE MOST DEMANDING CUSTOMER

Renault Wind has a level of standard and optional equipment worthy of a premium-class model.
Standard equipment:

• Remote central locking
• Cruise control with speed limiter
• Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors
• One-touch electric windows
• Climate control
• Foglamps
• 2x20W radio-CD with MP3 playback, steering wheel-mounted fingertip remote control and RCA (mini-jack) connectivity
• Front airbags and head/thorax lateral airbags
• Height-adjustable sports seats with integrated head rests
• Height-adjustable leather-trimmed steering wheel
• Trip computer
• 16-inch wheels

Options:

• Automatic climate control
• Plug&Music connectivity (USB, mini-jack, audio streaming)
• Dark charcoal or Camel leather upholstery with heated seats
• Automatic headlamp and windscreen wiper activation
• 2x35W radio-CD with MP3 playback, incorporating Bluetooth® connectivity (audio and phone)
• ESC (standard with the 1.6 16V engine)
• 17-inch diamond-effect wheels
• High-gloss black roof
• Rear parking proximity sensors
• A range of personalization options

RDX Racedesign Peugeot 207-2011

2010-09-17T12:06:00.000-07:00

(from RDX Racedesign Press Release) RDX RACEDESIGN refurbishes the Frenchman: Entire body kit for the Peugeot 207

- All component parts made of high-quality PU-ABS
- All parts including component part certificate and approval by the German Technical Control Board (TـV)

French automobiles are often disregarded in the tuning business. But RDX RACEDESIGN attends to the Peugeot 207 and the 207 CC. In its usual quality, the specialist for body kits offers an entirely new robe for the compact car.

Already the RDX front spoiler confirms the perfect manufacture. Without any problem, the new component can be exchanged with the original front of all 207 models until its facelift in 2009. The price of 169 Euro including VAT includes the mounting material and the grid. Of course, the delivery includes a component part certificate by the German Technical Control Board (TـV).

The RDX headlight blends are even easier to fit. With the enclosed assembly adhesive, the blends for only 49 Euro can be attached onto the serial lights. As the parts are already approved by the Technical Control Board, the RDX headlight blends do not have to be registered separately.

The rear apron attachment for all 207-models except the SW, is suitable for use with the serial exhaust, but also for one- and two-sided sport exhaust systems, as it is delivered without any cuts for the end pipes. Also the RDX rear apron attachment is already approved by the Technical Control Board and therefore does not have to be registered separately. The required mounting material and the grids are already included in the price of 169 Euro.

Also the RDX side skirts are already checked by the TـV. They can be attached to all two- and three-door 207-models including the CC. Also here, the mounting material and grids are included in the price of 169 Euro.

The RDX roof spoiler is made for all 207-models except the CC and SW. For only 99 Euro this also includes the mounting material and the component part certificate by the Technical Control Board.

RDX RACEDESIGN produces all parts in the high-quality material PU-ABS and in OEM-quality. This ensures best material stability as well as elasticity combined with light weight.

Also for the 207 body kit, RDX RACEDESIGN offers its popular RDX package prices. If you opt for the front spoiler, the side skirts and the rear apron attachment, you will receive a 10-percent discount on the individual prices.

RDX RACEDESIGN knows the quality of its own products and therefore gives a two-year-warranty for material- and production mistakes. Moreover, every customer is granted the right of withdrawal within 14 days if the components fail to please him.

Also, the international focus confirms the success of the body kit specialist RDX RACEDESIGN. The web shop with all product descriptions is not only available in German, but also in English, French, Italian, Spanish and Dutch. RDX RACEDESIGN delivers the component parts for the Peugeot 207 as well as all other mounting parts from its extensive programme at a favourable handling and shipping flat rate into more than thirty countries.

Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon-2011

2010-09-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

(from Cadillac Press Release) Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon Show Car Debuts At The New York Auto Show

- V-Series performance combined with dramatic CTS Sport Wagon design
- 556-hp (415-kW) supercharged 6.2L V-8
- Six-speed manual or six-speed automatic with steering wheel shift controls
- Magnetic Ride Control, Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires
- Limited availability beginning in late 2010

NEW YORK – Cadillac today unveiled the CTS-V Sport Wagon show car, foreshadowing the next addition to its V-Series performance line. It combines the performance and luxury of the landmark CTS-V Sport Sedan with the dramatic design of the CTS Sport Wagon.

“The CTS-V Sport Wagon is a natural extension of both the V-Series and the CTS lineup, offering an uncompromising performance car to enthusiasts who want the extra room of a wagon,” said Don Butler, vice president for Cadillac marketing. “The V-Series Sport Wagon is another hallmark of the dramatic presence and power of Cadillac vehicles.”

The exterior is finished in Midnight Silver, first seen on the Cadillac Sixteen Concept, and accented by lustrous Liquid Silver-finished wheels and a black chrome finish on the grille’s mesh insert. The rear fascia, upper spoiler and center high-mounted stop lamp are also unique to the show car.

Inside, the CTS-V Sport Wagon show car is trimmed in exclusive black leather with Alcantara accents. The upper section of the instrument panel and upper door panels are covered in the same premium leather, accented with midnight Sapele wood, while the microfiber material and stitching is applied to the lower door panels, pillars, console lid, headliner and steering wheel center. The show car features fine-grain black leather-trimmed Recaro seats with Alcantara seat inserts. The seat inserts are divided in the center and accented with dark gray stitching, while the V-series logo is laser etched into the seatbacks. Obsidian Black accents grace the center stack, console, steering wheel and door panels.

The show car’s bespoke color and trim elements hint at the potential direction of color and trim in future Cadillac models. These elements are not yet intended for production, but represent Cadillac’s desire to gauge customer reaction to new color and trim options.

Production CTS-V Sport Wagon

The CTS-V Sport Wagon will go into production in late 2010, with initial sales in North America, followed by export markets including Europe and the Middle East. The new model rounds out the V-Series offerings, which include all variants of the CTS family’s sedan, coupe and sport wagon body styles.

Like its sedan and coupe stable mates, the CTS-V Sport Wagon is powered by a supercharged 6.2L V-8, which delivers 556 horsepower (415 kW) and is backed by either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic. A suite of technical and performance elements complement the powertrain, including Magnetic Ride Control, Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 performance tires mounted on 19-inch forged aluminum wheels.

Like the other CTS V-Series models, the Sport Wagon incorporates a unique grille that doubles front-end airflow to help enable its high-performance capabilities. It is also visually identified by an aggressive front fascia and raised center section of the aluminum hood that provides clearance for the supercharger. It rides on 19-inch forged aluminum wheels available in painted or polished finishes.

The rest of the exterior carries the dramatic design of the new CTS Sport Wagon; the details of which include:

- Signature V-shaped deck and tailgate motif
- Large, vertical taillamps with light-pipe technology
- Power-opening liftgate (via key fob or in-vehicle button)
- CHMSL-integrated roof spoiler
- Integrated roof load management system with available cross bars for a seamless - appearance
- Cargo management system with adjustable in-floor containment
- Available panoramic UltraView sunroof.

At the rear is a pair of 3-inch (76 mm) chrome exhaust outlets, which caps a performance dual-exhaust system made of high-grade stainless steel that will maintain a lustrous appearance longer than ordinary stainless.

Of course, cargo capability is a hallmark of wagons and the V-Series Sport Wagon delivers with 25.4 cubic feet (720 liters) of space behind the rear seats and 58 cubic feet (1,644 liters) with the seats folded – virtually doubling the available space of the sedan.

Supercharged performance

The 6.2L supercharged V-8 engine powers the CTS-V Sport Wagon – the same acclaimed engine found in the V-Series Sedan and Coupe models. Rated at 556 horsepower (415 kW) and 551 lb.-ft. of torque (747 Nm), it is the most powerful engine offered in Cadillac’s history.

The engine features an intercooled Eaton Twin Vortices Series™ (TVS™) supercharger. This unique supercharger design employs twin four-lobe rotors, twisted 160 degrees. Typical superchargers feature three lobes twisted 60 degrees. The fourth lobe and added twist, when combined with unique air inlet and outlet ports, create smoother, more efficient airflow into the engine. In addition to improved overall efficiency, this supercharger has superior noise and vibration characteristics compared to more ordinary designs.

A pair of six-speed transmissions is offered in the CTS-V Sport Wagon – a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual with a dual-disc clutch and a Hydra-Matic 6L90 six-speed automatic with steering wheel-mounted shift controls. The steering wheel-mounted controls require no shift lever movement and allow immediate tap up/tap down gear selection. Performance Algorithm Shifting provides the automotive transmission with a performance-oriented shift pattern during sustained high-performance driving. As with many Cadillac models, the driver needs only to slide the shifter into the manual “gate” to put the transmission into a performance mode.

Torque is channeled through the six-speed transmissions to a high-performance rear axle that features a limited-slip rear differential within a cast iron housing for greater thermal management and asymmetrical half-shafts to smoothly manage the supercharged engine’s incredible torque. The unique design includes alternately sized half-shafts that also help dynamically balance the oscillation of torque from side to side, effectively eliminating “power hop.”

Magnetic Ride Control

The V-Series achieves exceptional levels of road-holding performance, but also maintains the poise of a luxury car in “regular” driving conditions. The technical enabler of this dual-mode driving character is Cadillac’s landmark Magnetic Ride Control. It is standard on the CTS-V Sport Wagon and is the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology. It uses shocks controlled by advanced magneto-rheological technology, rather than mechanical valves, to greatly accelerate response time and precision.

Electronic sensors at all four wheels literally “read the road” every millisecond, making constant adjustments to damping to create virtually instantaneous and extremely precise control of body motions. This is of particular benefit for a high-performance car because it helps keep the car very composed during hard cornering, acceleration, braking and other dynamic maneuvers.

The Magnetic Ride shocks also enable a broader range of damping control to optimize the ride and handling for all driving conditions. In the CTS-V Sport Wagon, an extra measure of control is offered, with two selectable modes (Tour and Sport), enabling the driver to tailor the suspension for grand touring or more spirited performance driving.

Cadillac pioneered Magnetic Ride Control, bringing it to production first in 2002, following decades of research on magneto-rheological science. Today, the technology appears only on a short roster of the world’s most elite vehicles, including Cadillac V-Series models, the Escalade luxury SUV and the STS and DTS luxury sedans.

Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires

The CTS-V Sport Wagon incorporates sophisticated braking and tire systems, in partnership with two companies renowned for high-performance technology: Brembo and Michelin. Brembo brakes are at all four corners and include powerful, six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear.

Large vented rotors enable strong initial braking force while optimizing heat resistance and eliminating fade. The brake rotors from Brembo are manufactured with “dual-cast” technology that combines cast iron and aluminum, resulting in superior performance and weight reduction.

The CTS-V Sport Wagon also includes an electric parking brake, which allows for optimal dead pedal placement, which is important for high-performance driving.

Michelin partnered with Cadillac engineers to develop an exclusive Pilot Sport PS2 tire specifically engineered for the CTS-V. The tires support high levels of grip in track conditions, while also affording excellent performance on the road.

Comfort, style and technology

The interior of the CTS-V Sport Wagon is shared with the sedan, including streamlined instrumentation, LED lighting and hand-cut-and-sewn accents.

The CTS-V Sport Wagon production model will come standard with performance seats featuring perforated sueded microfiber inserts designed to hold the driver and front passenger in place during cornering. Recaro performance driving seats are optional and provide excellent support for spirited driving. These 14-way adjustable performance seats include pneumatic bolster controls in the seat cushions and backrests.

Complementing the performance seating are a thick steering wheel and a gauge package designed for easy, at-a-glance reference during performance driving. Large instruments have bold readouts, including an LED-lit “tracer” function in the tachometer that flashes as the engine nears the red line. The gauge layout includes a boost gauge and a lateral acceleration display.

Obsidian Black accents grace the center stack, console, steering wheel and door panels. The production steering wheel and shifter are available in Alcantara, providing the luxurious character of suede. These accents are elegant to the touch and aid the driver during support high-performance driving. Just like every CTS, the V-Series includes a hand-stitched instrument panel, door trim and center console.

Leading-edge infotainment features extend to the V-Series. Standard features include an advanced navigation system with a deployable screen, Bose 5.1 digital surround audio, factory-installed Bluetooth phone integration and a 40-gigabyte hard drive that allows the customer to store a large library of music files. The system uploads files via a USB port or the in-dash DVD/CD drive and allows stored tracks to be searched and selected through the radio controls.

2010 Project Kahn Land Rover Range Rover Sport RS600 Autobiography

2010-09-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

(from Project Kahn press release) The new RS600 Autobiography by A Kahn design – 5.0 HSE Petrol Supercharged RS600.

Project Kahn is pleased to announce the launch of their new 2010 Range Rover Sport Supercharged RS600 Autobiography Sport with a full Kahn Design conversion

The Range Rover Sport RS600 takes vehicle customisation to the next level. With more focus on the owner, the conversion consists of an outstanding new ten piece Kahn body kit complete with a sports exhaust system and colour code. The kit has been developed by our Project Kahn design team and has undergone many hours of testing not only to ensure safety but also to guarantee that perfection is achieved with every car.

The RS600 package includes a complete interior styling package which sees the introduction of the new bespoke quilted leather interior range to the front and rear seats, glove box and dash board. The steering wheel and gear shift benefit from contrast stitching applied against the black leather adding beautiful texture, distinct style and the ultimate comfort. The speedometer, rev counter and clock, feature a shock of electric blue whilst all the while complementing the original design. Everything about the Kahn RS600 exudes style, from the stainless steel door entry sills, side vents foot pedals even down to the smallest of touches such as the Kahn leather key ring.

Their machined billet steering wheel is also available for the Range Rover and the Discovery. Manufactured in Italy and built using the original Land Rover component guarantees an exact fit, fully operational controls and driver airbag functionality. The standard frame is enhanced with a motorsports inspired contoured form and grip and finished in the highest grade lightweight billet aluminum and leather.

Each RS600 is fitted with the Project Kahn Super Sound exhaust system which emits a unique sound emanating from the car as a deep rumble. If that’s not enough the RS600 has undergone a performance upgrade, now benefitting from Kahn Intelligent Power offering an impressive 600 BHP.

The RS600 truly captures Project Kahn’s ideology of creating individuality which is enhanced by the inclusion of the Kahn 22” RS Alloy Wheel and Tyre package. The elegant and sculpted alloy wheel designs are created through skilled artistic innovation, state-of-the art manufacturing and advanced material technology.

As the UK’s leading automotive design house, Project Kahn recognizes the importance of dynamic cutting edge designs whilst staying true to the original form.

For full details on the Project Kahn Range Rover Sport and the RS wheel, call one of our qualified sales representatives on 01274 749 999.

UPDATED: After the success of the UK launch we have now extended availability to the rest of the world, producing the RS600 Autobiography Sport with a full Kahn Design conversion as both left and right hand drive. Prices start at £73,835.

About Project Kahn

A Kahn Design was founded by Afzal Kahn in 1998. Kahn Design personalise quality vehicles without compromising on style. Each body panel and interior stitch the company makes is carefully crafted and performed with the Kahn theme - design being paramount.

Vorsteiner Porsche 911 Turbo V-RT-2011

2010-09-17T11:49:00.000-07:00

(from Vorsteiner Press Release) The Evolution Continues: The V-RT for the 911 Turbo by Vorsteiner

Explore the ultimate sports coupe with V-RT series aerodynamic & performance enhancements from Vorsteiner for the 911 Turbo.

Our core focus of the V-RT series is to maximize performance by optimizing the power to weight ratio of the vehicle.

This achievement is made possible by producing our aerodynamic line with state of the art dry carbon fiber vacuum technology. This technology enables Vorsteiner Carbon Fiber products to exhibit higher stiffness and strength compared to other steel and aluminum components while simultaneously reducing weight up to 40%.

V-RT Carbon Fiber Aerodynamics

The V-RT front end features a newly redesigned front bumper cover that is constructed out of carbon fiber composite (CFRP). The front bumper exhibits a performance focus with the new sporty add-on carbon fiber chin spoiler and larger duct openings to feed air into the front radiators, along with the elimination of the fog lights for improved visual styling and weight reduction.

The Vorsteiner Rear Bumper and Decklid of the 911 Turbo meet the demand for performance and visual design.

The rear of the V-RT continues the same sport performance motif as the front bumper with the use of lighter carbon fiber material construction throughout the body components. The carbon fiber decklid and carbon fiber wing blade increases rear end down force, which improves handling.

To complete the light weight aerodynamic package, a replacement carbon fiber roof panel was produced which significantly improves the handling around the track while removing 55 lbs from the highest point of the vehicle

Reducing Rotational Inertia

A key component to improving acceleration, braking, and power to weight ratio are the wheels and tires you choose for your vehicle. For this reason we have coupled our lightweight carbon fiber aerodynamics with our forged 1-piece monoblock aluminum wheels and high performance Michelin PS2 sport tires.

The 1-piece and 3-piece forged wheels for Porsche 911 have a new exclusive center locking option that enables faster wheel changes and improved road performance.

Mini Countryman 2010

2010-09-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

(from Mini Press Release) Fun has no Limits: The MINI Countryman*. (* The name of the car may vary in some markets.)

MINI is adding a fourth model to the family, opening up a new dimension of that unmistakable MINI feeling. As a genuine Crossover, the MINI Countryman bridges the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. Boasting enhanced opportunities in urban mobility and beyond, the MINI Countryman offers that unique driving pleasure so typical of MINI to new target groups requiring extra space and flexibility. As the first model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid, the MINI Countryman provides even greater freedom of space for truly versatile use, a slightly elevated seating position, and optimized driving comfort. Full integration of the passengers within the vehicle creates that driving experience so typical of MINI. And at the same time the MINI Countryman maintains that go-kart feeling likewise so characteristic of MINI, optional MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive offering an additional highlight for the genuine connoisseur. In a nutshell, therefore, the MINI Countryman offers all the characteristic features of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and customisation in new, fascinating style.

The MINI Countryman carries on the design of the brand in superior style and quality, combining larger body dimensions, greater ground clearance and four doors at the side with those unmistakable design features so characteristic of MINI. Short overhangs, a high window line, powerful stance on the wheels, and window graphics extending round the entire car create those unique proportions so typical of MINI. At the same time the MINI Countryman re-interprets the characteristic icons of a MINI such as the roofline, the hexagon radiator grille, the large headlights integrated in the engine lid, the surrounds on the side direction indicators, the voluminous wheel arches and the upright rear light clusters in new style and class.

Proceeding from that design language so typical of MINI, the MINI Countryman authentically visualises the particular features of this very special car. Positioned almost upright, the front end bears out strong presence and serves to optimise pedestrian safety. The extra space within the car, in turn, is emphasised by extra-large windows, the introduction of four doors, and the individual shape of the roof. The particularly wide frame around the lower part of the body and the powerfully flared wheel arches highlight the robust character of the car and its all-wheel drive. With that typical MINI style now being conveyed to a new segment in absolute clarity and precision, the MINI Countryman stands out from the start as a brand-new, highly innovative model but is nevertheless clearly identifiable from the very beginning as a genuine MINI.

Within the interior again typical of the brand, the MINI Countryman boasts innovative design and function elements throughout. The slightly elevated seating position guarantees comfortable and pleasant access to the car, optimises the driver’s all-round view, and underlines the powerful character of this new model. The Central Display and air vents are surrounded by coloured rings. The MINI Center Rail quite unique the world over, extending from front to rear instead of a conventional centre console, opens up new, individual options for integrating all kinds of storage boxes, cupholders, external audio devices, mobile telephones and other comfort features. Flexibly positioned clip-in elements enable the driver and passengers to subdivide the storage boxes individually as required, keeping travel utensils within easy reach, wherever they are required. At the same time the Center Rail forms an unconventional, visual and functional connection between the front seats and the rear passenger compartment.

The MINI Countryman comes as standard with four seats, while a three-seat bench is available as a no-cost option. The interior offers superior comfort also on long distances, with generous legroom, headroom and shoulder freedom. The rear seats move fore-and-aft either individually or in a 60 : 40 (three-seat bench) split, the backrests may be tilted for angle either individually or in a 40 : 20 : 40 (three-seat bench) arrangement, increasing capacity in the luggage compartment from 350 to 1,170 litres (12.2–41.0 cu ft).

The MINI Countryman is entering the market with a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines, all coming in the new generation of power units developed with the full know-how of the BMW Group and naturally complying with the EU5 and, respectively, ULEV II emission standards. The power range extends from 66 kW/90 hp in the MINI One D Countryman all the way to 135 kW/184 hp in the MINI Cooper S Countryman. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the top model comes for the first time not only with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, but also with fully variable valve management offering by far the best balance of engine power and fuel consumption in its class. As a particular highlight of the MINIMALISM fuel efficiency concept, the MINI Countryman comes as standard and in appropriate combinations on each model with a wide range of features serving to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, among them Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, a gearshift point indicator, and on-demand management of the engine’s ancillary units. And as an alternative to the six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, the petrol engine models are also available with six-speed automatic complete with Steptronic.

As an option the MINI Cooper S Countryman and MINI Cooper D Countryman are available with permanent MINI ALL4 all-wheel drive, an electrohydraulic differential positioned directly on the final drive varying the distribution from front to rear in an infinite process. Under normal driving conditions up to 50 per cent of the engine’s power goes to the rear wheels, under extreme conditions up to 100 per cent, offering a new, high-traction rendition of that agile handling so typical of MINI. This superior traction and drivetrain technology is based on the top-end suspension of the MINI including features such as the front axle with McPherson spring struts and forged track control arms, the multi-arm rear axle and EPS Electric Power Steering complete with Servotronic. The MINI Countryman furthermore comes as standard with DSC Dynamic Stability Control, DTC Dynamic Traction Control coming either as an option or as a standard feature on the MINI Cooper S Countryman and the MINI Cooper D Countryman with ALL4, as well as an electronic limited-slip function for the front axle differential.

Designed for optimum safety in the event of a collision, the body structure with its precisely defined load paths and deformation zones ensures passive safety of the highest calibre. Frontal and side airbags as well as curtain airbags at the side both front and rear, three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters at the front, as well as ISOFIX child seat fastenings at the rear all come as standard. Yet another standard feature is the Tyre Defect Indicator, with runflat tyres coming as an option and standard on the MINI Cooper S Countryman with ALL4.

The wide range of customisation options on both the exterior and interior again so typical of MINI are supplemented by new, model-specific features exclusive to the MINI Countryman. New combinations in the range of interior colours, trim strips and upholstery enable even the most discerning customer to create his – or her – very special car with truly unique character. The wide range of standard features boasted by the MINI Countryman includes highlights such as air conditioning, the MINI Center Rail, and an audio system complete with a CD player. The equally wide range of options and special equipment tailored to each model comes with features such as high-end audio and navigation systems as well as mobile telephone interfaces including the option to completely integrate an Apple iPhone and other Smartphones in the car. Further options are the extra-large Panorama roof, Adaptive Headlights in combination with xenon headlight units, a heated windscreen, a towbar, light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 16 to 19 inches, sports suspension lowering the entire car by 10 millimetres or almost 0.4", as well as the wide range of John Cooper Works Performance Components.

Mazda MX-5-2010

2010-09-17T11:32:00.000-07:00

(from Mazda Press Release) Evolution focused on pure Jinba Ittai Enjoyment

The facelift MX-5 embodies the purest form of Zoom-Zoom. With evolved sensory qualities, it continues to deliver the unchanging value of “Jinba-Ittai” (oneness between driver and car) despite the changing world. Marking its 20th anniversary next year, the new MX-5 offers a “lots of fun” driving experience underpinned by the untiring passion of Mazda’s engineers since 1989.

Updates at a Glance

Newly evolved look that’s functional and instantly recognizable, as Mazda, and as MX-5
• Exterior styling with greater dynamism & athleticism, which contributes to superior aerodynamics
• Strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the Roadster Coupe

Enhanced engineering to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine performance
• 500 rpm higher rev limit and the raised engine speed at max power
• Introduced a forged crankshaft, fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs

Sportier engine sound that responds more crisply to accelerator inputs
• Surge tank rigidity optimization, new forged crankshaft and ISE , Induction Sound Enhancer (for 6MT)

Smoother shifting feel with brisk and high-quality steering feel
• With 6MT, the meshing surfaces of the 1st–4th triple-cone synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd–4th synchronizer diameter has been increased.
• Linear & sporty 6AT that’s newly available for Europe incorporates two new control technologies, Direct Activematic (DAM) and Active Adaptive Shift (AAS).
• A lower front roll centre and retuned suspension make the car’s response to steering inputs more linear and enable the driver to precisely trace desired lines. The yaw and roll also feel more natural, producing a higher-quality ride
Improved quietness
• Roadster Coupe cockpit road noise with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before. Improvements include urethane filling in the front suspension member and damping material in the front roof section.
• Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.
Environmental, safety and conformability
• More convenient features, ie., improved Bose®sound system, 5 step adjustable seat heater, etc.
• Average fuel consumption display and outside air temperature is equipped
• More models featuring DSC as standard equipment

All information in this press copy is based on the specifications of the freshened Mazda MX-5 at the time of writing. Mazda’s product development is ongoing, so certain details of the vehicle may change. For confirmation, please contact the nearest Mazda public relations representative.

At the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Mazda is unveiling the freshened Mazda MX-5 and Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe.* Both versions of the facelifted MX-5 been reined for an even purer experience of Jinba Ittai — the unique feeling of oneness between driver and car that has distinguished the MX-5 since its inception.

Since launching the first-generation MX-5 in 1989, Mazda has stuck to the concept that driving enjoyment is the key value offered by the MX-5. Through two full redesigns and countless improvements, we’ve continued to heighten and improve the MX-5’s Jinba Ittai- focused “lots of fun” character. We expanded the MX-5’s appeal to an even broader audience in 2006 with the launch of the MX-5 Roadster Coupe. As demands for safety and environmental compatibility have grown amid major changes in the automotive environment, we’ve continued to incorporate new technologies and innovations without compromising the MX-5’s inherent lightness.

*The version with a retractable hard top has various names according to market. In Europe, it’s called the Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe. In North America, it’s called the Mazda MX-5 Power Retractable Hard Top. And in Japan, it’s called the Mazda Roadster Power Retractable Hard Top.

With the latest MX-5 facelift, Mazda engineers set out to combine an enhanced Jinba Ittai feeling with revisions that would further cement the MX-5’s reputation as the most enjoyable lightweight two-seat sports car in the world. The designers retained the well- known friendly facial expression while incorporating elements of Mazda’s latest design themes for a dynamic, athletic look that embodies the MX-5’s function and purpose as a sports car. With the Roadster Coupe, they strongly emphasized a premium identity in the look and feel of the body and cabin.

With regard to dynamic performance, the engineers enhanced characteristics that appeal to the emotions yet cannot be expressed in terms of catalogue specifications. For example, they optimized the engine potential for greater enjoyment, created a sportier engine sound that responds more crisply to accelerator inputs, and realized a brisk, high-quality steering feel that gives a more linear response to movements of the steering wheel. And at the same time, they enhanced the MX-5 in terms of comfort, convenience, fuel economy, and safety.

MX-5 Programme Manager Takao Kijima says: “Although the kind of driving experience that people find enjoyable in a lightweight sports car never really changes, maintaining it in a vehicle that must also meet the continually changing demands of society is a daily challenge for Mazda engineers, and a particularly vital mission with the MX-5. Speaking as the engineer in charge of MX-5 development, I’m convinced that the MX-5 is—and will remain—more enjoyable than any competing car. I’m delighted that the new MX-5 and the newly evolved Jinba Ittai fun that it offers will soon be thrilling customers who already embrace the MX-5 philosophy, and those who are about to encounter the MX-5 for the first time.”

Heritage : Worldwide Acclaim and More than 850,000 Units of Production

The MX-5 has enjoyed worldwide popularity since its first-generation debut in 1989. Indeed, it is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s highest-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history. Since the launch of the third-generation model, the MX-5 has won more than 175 accolades including the 2005–2006 Japan Car of the Year award; Wheels magazine’s 2005 Car of the Year award; Top Gear magazine’s Roadster of the Year 2005 award; a place in Car and Driver magazine’s 2006 Ten Best Cars list; and selection by Consumer Reports as the best 2008 car in the “fun to drive” category. Aggregate MX-5 production stood at 852,682 units at the end of July 2008, which looks set to be recognized again by Guinness World Records as the highest-ever production volume for a two-seat convertible sports car.

MX-5’s “Lots of Fun” Character

The “lots of fun” character conceived by Mazda for the MX-5 encompasses several kinds of fun: the fun of driving it, the fun of seeing its great styling, the fun of personalizing it, the fun of using it to get together with friends, and the fun of owning and using the MX-5 on a day-to-day basis. And underpinning this “lots of fun” character is the feeling that Mazda calls Jinba Ittai. In developing the third-generation MX-5, Mazda engineers clearly defined Jinba Ittai by creating a fishbone chart with six categories (styling, touching, listening, driving, cornering, and braking) which were then broken down into individual attributes. With reference to the fishbone chart, they then used techniques based on Mazda’s unique philosophy of Kansei engineering to conduct development with a focus on enjoyment, beauty, and emotional attachment (values that can’t be measured in numerical terms). With the latest facelift, all members of the development team used the fishbone chart again as a way to keep their goals consistent while evolving the MX-5 to meet new social demands and customer expectations.

An Uncompromising Focus on Lightness

In the third-generation MX-5’s development, Mazda engineers pursued the ‘gram’ strategy (a programme of weight minimizationon a component-by-component basis), used cutting-edge technologies to make the body light and rigid, and adopted materials that were stronger and lighter than those used in the second-generation MX-5. As a result, they were able to limit the overall weight increase to just 10 kg (22 lb) and enhance performance at the same time. With the latest facelift, the development team adopted new mechanicals and equipment throughout the MX-5 but again kept the overall weight increase to an absolute minimum. The MX-5’s ideal 50:50 front/rear weight distribution and the reduced yaw-inertia moment achieved by Mazda with the third-generation MX-5 are totally uncompromised.

Design: A Newly Evolved Look that’s Functional and Instantly Recognizable

Design and craftsmanship, which are encompassed, respectively, by the “styling” and “touching” categories in the fishbone chart, are particularly crucial to a sports car since they’re the main source of the car’s “fun to own” and “fun to use” characteristics. They must complement and underpin the car’s functionality. With the latest MX-5 facelift, the development team incorporated elements of Mazda’s newest design themes while carefully carrying forward the simple and instantly recognizable personality that Mazda established with the first-generation MX-5. The updated exterior styling reflects an evolution toward greater dynamism and athleticism, and it contributes to superior aerodynamic performance. The updated interior design realizes significantly enhanced quality and a more functional, driver-friendly sports-car cockpit.

Exterior Design: A Fusion of New Mazda Elements and an Unmistakable MX-5 Look
The front grille has been enlarged and changed from an oval shape to the five-point grille that forms part of the well-known Mazda family face. Combined with tautly styled headlights and lowing fog- lamp bezels, the new grille creates a reined and athletic expression. To preserve the character that has always been a hallmark of the MX-5, the five points of the grille are slightly rounded. Also, the new shape of the front bumper, with corners that extend downwards, enhances the dynamic look and improves the aerodynamics.

Viewed from the side, newly designed side sills form a character line that lows to the rear bumper in a way that emphasizes speed and stability. The reshaped side sills deflect air away from the rear wheels, and thereby contribute to superior aerodynamic performance.

The rear bumper has a new design that makes the rear look wider, sportier, and more integrated into the body. The rear combination lamps inherit the traditional MX-5 elliptical motif, and protrude further outboard for greater aerodynamic efficiency.

The Roadster Coupe’s more Upscale Identity

The MX-5 Roadster Coupe, which features a groundbreaking powered roof system, also incorporates several design changes that further emphasize its more upscale identity and distinguish it from the soft-top version.
• Front grille: Whereas the soft-top version has a in-type grille, the Roadster Coupe has a mesh grille that is framed by a chrome ring.
• Headlamp inner bezels: The headlamp inner bezels are painted silver on the soft-top version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe. • Fog-lamp inner bezels: The fog lamp inner bezels are black on the soft-top version, but are painted silver on the Roadster Coupe.
• Outer door handles: The outer door handles are body-coloured on the soft-top version, but have a chrome finish on the Roadster Coupe.
• High-mounted stop lamp: The high-mounted stop lamp has a red lens on the soft-top version, but a clear lens on the Roadster Coupe.

New Wheel Designs

The MX-5 is available with 16-inch and 17-inch aluminium wheels. The 16-inch wheels have five sets of twin spokes for a lightweight look. The 17-inch wheels have 10 twisted spokes for a stronger impression of power and dynamism.

Interior Design: Higher Than Ever Quality and Driver- Friendliness

The interior design delivers the MX-5’s traditional combination of comfortable snugness below shoulder level and openness above shoulder level. It also reflects customer feedback in the form of enhanced quality and driver-friendly features.

The decorative surfaces on the instrument panel have been changed from glossy piano black to dark silver, which has a subtler, higher- quality look befitting a sports car. The meters have new graphics for higher legibility. The climate-control dials on the centre stack have each been given a silver-coloured ring for a higher-quality look. A protrusion has been eliminated from the outer surface of each door pocket to create more leg space. And the door and centre-console armrests have each been given a soft pad for a better feel.

Recaro seats designed exclusively for the MX-5 are available in certain regions. They are upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara® for a sporty look, and they combine excellent support with easy ingress and egress.

Colour Variations

The MX-5 for Europe has a lineup of seven body colours including two new choices: Aluminium Metallic (a mix of sportiness and refinement) and Metropolitan Grey Mica. The soft top is black. Non- Recaro seats in the MX-5 for Europe are upholstered with black fabric or with black or Dune Beige (not available in Europe) leather depending on grade. The leather and perforated Alcantara* on the Recaro seats have a black-based two-tone colour scheme. The full lineup of body colours is as follows:
• Aluminium Metallic (new)
• Metropolitan Grey Mica (new)
• Sunflower Yellow (new; not available in Europe)
• Copper Red Mica
• Stormy Blue Mica
• True Red
• Brilliant Black
• Marble White (soft-top version only)

Dynamic Performance : Evolved Jinba Ittai for Enhanced Fun-To-Drive

The Jinba Ittai feeling on which Mazda has always focused with the MX-5 defines the kind of spontaneous car-and-driver interaction that anyone can experience whether they’re driving the MX-5 in town, on twisty roads, or on an open highway. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers evolved the attributes in the “driving”, “cornering”, “braking”, and “listening” categories in the fishbone chart to realize performance that lets drivers enjoy the feeling of oneness with the car to an even greater degree.

A 500 rpm Higher Rev Limit Maximizes Engine Potential for Greater Enjoyment

The powertrain has been enhanced to enable the driver to enjoy the full potential of the engine’s performance (a key “fun to drive” aspect of the MX-5). Specifically, the speed at which the engine delivers maximum power has been raised from 6,700 rpm to 7,000 rpm (2.0-litre M/T version) and the rev limit has been raised from 7,000 rpm to 7,500 rpm (all 2.0-litre versions). Without these enhancements, the engine feels smooth and linear right up to the rev limit, even with the throttle wide open. With them, however, the driver can really experience the sensation of extracting every single horsepower out of the engine (the enhancements described here apply to the 2.0-litre grades with a manual transmission). The crucial 500 rpm increase in the rev limit is enabled by greater precision in the engine, namely: a forged crankshaft (this ensures the required rigidity at high engine speeds), fully floating pistons and newly designed valve springs.

A Sportier Engine Sound that Responds More Crisply to Accelerator Inputs
The engine sound (a key element in the “listening” category of the MX-5 fishbone chart) is a big part of the sports car experience. With the latest facelift, Mazda engineers made the MX-5 engine sound even better without causing aural discomfort for people outside the car. Notably, they increased the rigidity of the plastic surge tank in the intake manifold. The optimized surge tank combines with the new forged crankshaft to realize a clearer engine sound throughout the rev range. In vehicles with the six-speed manual transmission, the engineers also adopted a newly developed device called an Induction Sound Enhancer (ISE). This amplifies the pulses that occur when an accelerator input opens the throttle valve to increase air low into the engine, thereby delivering a more exciting sound to the cockpit. The intake sound created by the ISE feels synchronized with the driver’s accelerator inputs, so the driver enjoys a crisp, thrilling engine sound even when using the accelerator pedal gently to adjust the revs for a downshift.

Newly Evolved and Reined Transmissions

With the six-speed manual transmission, the meshing surfaces of the 1st–4th triple-cone synchronizers are now carbon coated, and the 3rd–4th synchronizer diameter has been increased. These improvements enable smoother shifts up to the engine’s heightened rev limit of 7,500 rpm.

A six-speed Activematic automatic transmission that’s newly available with the MX-5 for Europe incorporates two new control technologies. One is Direct Activematic (DAM), which allows the driver to quickly change gears using paddles on the steering wheel while still driving in the “D” range. It was developed to enable quick downshifts for three common situations: decelerating using engine braking on a downhill road; accelerating after decelerating into a corner; and overtaking another vehicle. (The driver does not need to select the “M” range before shifting down.) Since Direct Activematic enables engine braking and acceleration more quickly and easily, it makes driving easier and more fun. The other new technology is Active Adaptive Shift (AAS), by means of which the transmission control system evaluates the driving situation from factors such as the road’s gradient and twistiness and the accelerator and brake inputs. When the system recognizes enthusiastic driving, it actively promotes upshifts and downshifts to realize a linear and sporty response that matches the driver’s intentions.

Handling that Further Heightens the Jinba Ittai Feeling

The MX-5 development team also heightened the Jinba Ittai feeling by comprehensively reining attributes in the category that’s called “cornering” on the fishbone chart. A key refinement was made to the front suspension knuckles. The ball joints’ vertical pivot position was changed to reduce the height of the front roll centre by 26 mm. This decreased fluctuations in the vertical loading on the outer wheel during cornering manoeuvres. Consequently, roll movements caused by steering inputs feel more natural and the car’s response to steering inputs is more linear. In combination with newly tuned suspension components, the revision improves the Jinba Ittai steering feel whereby the driver can precisely trace desired lines. It also realizes a higher-quality ride by making the yaw and roll feel more natural.

An Athletic Design that Heightens Aerodynamic Performance

To improve handling stability, quietness, and high-speed fuel economy, the MX-5 development team drew on Mazda’s expertise in incorporating aerodynamic improvements into styling that’s faithful to a design theme. The main aerodynamic improvements are as follows:
• air guides that protrude downward from the left and right corners of the front bumper
• specification vehicles, except some specific markets)
• protruding rear combination lamps
• wider front tyre deflectors

As a result of these improvements, both the soft-top version and Roadster Coupe have top class aerodynamics for their class.

Comfort and Utility: A Quieter Ride in the Roadster Coupe

Given the Roadster Coupe’s more upscale positioning, the development team produced a quieter ride by reducing wheel resonance and adding damping and sound-insulating materials, such as urethane filling in the front suspension crossmember and damping material in the front part of the roof. Thanks to these improvements, road noise in the cockpit on a coarse road surface with the roof closed is 2.1dB lower than before. Quietness is further promoted in the Roadster Coupe and soft-top version by stiffer door modules and by newly added reinforcements on the No. 2 crossmember.

New Equipment for Comfort and Convenience

• Bose® sound system (optional): New features such as a six channel equalizer (with separate channels for the woofers and the door-mounted mid-to-high frequency speakers) achieve clearer, more dynamic sound reproduction.
• AUX jack: Third-party audio devices can be connected to the car’s audio system. There is also a 12V power socket.
• Bluetooth telephone system (optional): Hands-free communication is possible without even having to physically plug in Bluetooth-capable mobile telephones. The driver can make and accept calls using voice commands or controls mounted on the steering wheel.
• Improved seat heaters (optional): Shorter warmup times are complemented by five levels of adjustability (as opposed to the previous on/off control) for greater comfort.
• Storage for small items: The divider that forms cupholders in the centre-console can be removed to create a handy box for small items. There is also a net pocket on each door.

Ecology and Safety: Enhanced Environmental Performance for Greater Enjoyment

Mazda regards efforts to reduce fuel economy and exhaust emissions not only as a vital way to protect the environment but also as a way to make sports cars more fun to drive.

With the latest MX-5 facelift, Mazda engineers addressed fuel economy by reducing the rolling resistance of the tyres, reducing engine friction, and revising the transmission gear ratios. Lower exhaust emissions were achieved through upgraded precious metals in the catalytic converter. The MX-5’s improved emission performance complies with Japan’s SU-LEV standard, the European Union’s Stage 4 standard, and the United States’ ULEV2 standard.

To promote eco-driving, the digital display on the instrument panel can show the average fuel consumption (The display can be toggled between average fuel consumption, a double tripmeter, and the outside air temperature.)

Rigorous Attention to Safety

Improved active safety on the European MX-5 is realized by expanded availability of a tyre pressure monitoring system and by more models featuring Dynamic Stability Control as standard equipment. The MX-5 facelift will be introduced on the European market in early spring 2009.

Wheelsandmore Maserati Quattroporte Italian Job 2011

2010-09-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

(from wheelsandmore press release) ITALIAN JOB by wheelsandmore

Individual high-performance tuning upgrades with the latest technology for exclusive luxury cars are the speciality from german tuning company wheelsandmore.

For those who think a Maserati isn´t exclusive enough wheelsandmore developed high-end products for the models Quattroporte and Gran Turismo

The Quattroporte gets an ecu upgrade combined with a handmade, stainless steel exhaustsystem with valve flaps, obtaining enormous 440hp and 490 lb-ft .

The performance is further upgraded with the special forged, lightweight wheel model 6Sporz from wheelsandmore.

Because of the more slender body the Quattroporte is coming with „just“ 255/35 and 305/30/20” Pirelli tyres.

The exclusive tuning program is completed by a coilover kit with adjustable compression and rebound, called Street Comfort and is made by KW suspensions in Germany.

The kit can also be used at cars with serial skyhook suspension.

Mansory Rolls-Royce Ghost 2010

2010-09-17T11:27:00.001-07:00

(from Mansory Press Release) World premiere at the 80th Geneva Motor Show

Unlimited luxury in a golden robe – MANSORY refines the Rolls Royce Ghost

A large programme for the “little“ Rolls Royce. Automobile refiner Kourosh Mansory offers a breathtaking individualisation for the Rolls Royce Ghost. The specialist for luxury cars combines most precious materials with elaborate performance, individual appearance and stylish interior refinements.

This creates a unique overall concept with a self-confident character.

The most striking part of the metamorphosis is an individually varnish in Gold and Blue. The self-assured colouring does not only reflect the exclusive status of the car, but also emphasises the newly developed exterior shape.

The golden varnish accentuates the delicate cross-beam in the new front skirt as well as the vertical gill between the headlights and the front wheel houses. Also the modified radiator grill insert duly profits from the varnish.

The evidence for the increased performance of the MANSORY Ghost can be found in the side skirts, the stainless steel sheeting, the unobtrusive rear spoiler and the rear skirt with the indicated diffuser and the two-pass end pipes of the double sport exhaust system.

The sportiness imbued by the exterior package is confirmed by the content under the bonnet. Enlarged bi-turbo chargers, the map optimisation of the control electronics as well as the sports manifold and the sports catalysers significantly increase the performance of the Rolls Royce. Instead of serial 570 hp (420 kW), the Ghost refined by MANSORY now renders phenomenal 720 hp (530 kW) at 5,850 r.p.m. The engineers from the Bavarian town Brand near Bayreuth catapult the maximum torque from 780 to astonishing 1,020 Newton metres. Therefore, the engine accelerates the 2,360 kg of the car from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds and is thereby half a second faster than the serial version. Thanks to the removed top speed limitation, the acceleration does not stop at 250, but only at 310 km/h.

With these performance values, also the wheels are growing. Especially for the Rolls Royce Ghost, MANSORY developed a new design whose innovative look perfectly matches with the new appearance of the car.

The monoblock rims measure enormous 22 inches and their surface is refined with the same golden varnish as the exterior. At the front axle, 9 inch wide wheels carry the high-performance tyres Dunlop SP SportMaxx in the dimension 265/35, whereas the rear 10.5 inch wide wheels are fitted with tyres in the dimension 295/30.

The interior presents itself as an oasis for luxury and perfectly goes with the exquisite outer refinement. Large parts of the interior are covered with the most delicate leather with diamond-quilted ornaments and are completed by an ultra-suede lining from the roof line to the dashboard. Special wide carbon and a sports steering wheel in combination with light bamboo wood inlays render and atmosphere which can not be surpassed in terms of exclusiveness. Moreover, there are illuminated door sills and the implemented ambience light effects: seats, door casings and dashboard are equipped with LEDs which supply a pleasantly soft light throughout the passenger cabin.

Once again, company founder Kourosh Mansory has understood to lift a top luxury class automobile into even higher levels. After the refinement, the Rolls Royce Ghost presents itself with a self-confident character. There is a perfect synergy between technology and luxury which further confirms the individual design.

Mansory Mercedes-Benz G-Couture2010

2010-09-17T11:18:00.000-07:00

(from Mansory Press Release) World premiere at the 80th Geneva Motor Show

An off-road designer piece - MANSORY and PHILIPP PLEIN present the G-Couture

Kourosh Mansory puts a designer piece on wheels. Together with celebrity fashion designer Philipp Plein, the automobile refiner MANSORY turns the Mercedes-Benz G-class into a luxury vehicle class of its own in a limited edition of only seven cars. Only very few people will be able to enjoy this unique automobile. The edition is strictly limited to only seven cars.

So far, Philipp Plein is renowned around the world for his fashion and furniture. Now, he tailors a new robe for the Mercedes-Benz G 55 AMG together with the top-class refiner MANSORY. In co-operation with the engineers in Brand close to Bayreuth / Bavaria, the famous designer has developed an exterior that embodies the typically self-confident character of all MANSORY automobiles.

The new tailored suit of the G-model impresses both visually and also technically. The entire exterior up to the lower window edge and the roof of the SUV are made of carbon. But the ultra-light and high-strength material is not enough for MANSORY and its aspired exclusiveness. By using the autoclave-prepreg-method, the carbon is compressed so strongly in a special pressure chamber that no more air inclusions remain in the material. Normally, this processing method is only used in aviation and aerospace, as it is very cost-intensive. But MANSORY does not accept any compromise when it comes to quality.

The refiner also puts the same emphasis into the engine modification. MANSORY replaces the majority of the components with high-performance components from the Mercedes-Benz SLR. This extensive modification leads to impressive 700 hp (515 kW) with the MANSORY G-Couture instead of the serial 507 hp (373 kW) of the G 55 AMG. The maximum torque rises from 700 to 880 Newton metres.

In order to transmit this enormous power to the road, the luxury refiner equips the G-Couture with four high-performance tyres Pirelli Scorpion in the dimension 305/35 R 23. They are carried by new, one-part SUV-rims in 23 inches which MANSORY presents at their world premiere.

And of course the interior is nothing short of the exclusive exterior. Thereby it is obvious that MANSORY has replaced the back bench with four single seats whose lateral support has grown with the performance of the car. A further application is the continuous central console which now reaches from the back seat to the cock-pit and offers the passengers at the back seat integrated monitors which are connected to the DVD entertainment system.

The MANSORY upholstery department only allows flawless leather for the interior. The perfectly processed skins do not only stand out for their endurance but also for their especially pleasant surface quality. The exquisite overall impression is enhanced by the airbag sports steering wheel and the aluminium pedals. The entire refinement of the passenger cabin is emphasised by applications made of real python skin in silver and crowned with G-Couture logos in the head rests.

As revolutionary as Philipp Plein influences the world of fashion, as successful Kourosh Mansory turns luxury automobiles into exclusive unique specimen. With their co-operation, the two artists created a unique SUV which combines luxury, extravagant design and top driving performance.

2010 AC Schnitzer BMW Z4 E89

2010-09-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

(from AC Schnitzer Press Release) Striking Entrance: The BMW Z4 by AC Schnitzer is ready for its world first

Ready for its world premiere: the extensive product range for the BMW Z4 by AC Schnitzer. The Aachen-based tuning specialist has further optimised the brand-new classic from BMW, which has already received extensive accolades from the trade press.

The BMW Z4 as standard is far from under-powered. But as is well known, enthusiastic drivers can never have enough power. Sufficient reason then for AC Schnitzer to upgrade the Z4 3.5i Turbo to 286 km/h. With a power of 360 HP and an unladen weight of 1485 kg, the open-top roadster from BMW accelerates from a standing start to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Even the most demanding driver will be delighted with this performance.

The driving experience is enhanced acoustically and visually by the stainless steel sports rear silencer and the chromed Racing tailpipe trims.

Equally sporting is the AC Schnitzer suspension variant in the Z4. Thanks to a new spring kit, the transverse acceleration appears to bypass the conventional laws of nature.

This impression is certainly partly supported by the aerodynamic components made of PU-Rim, a high quality flexible plastic. The aerodynamic pack for the new BMW Z4 consists of a chrome front grille and front spoiler, where both components combine to give a more muscular look to the long bonnet lines.

New sports fenders, consisting of wheel arches with integral air outlets for improved cooling of the front brakes and chromed deflectors, optimise the side lines of the roadster.

Finally, the two-piece rear spoiler gives the rear of the BMW Z4 by AC Schnitzer an impressive look; because of the performance of the car, this is probably the aspect which will be seen most by other drivers!

In the inside, both driver and passenger enjoy an impressive interior. The aluminium cover for the i-Drive System Controller, the aluminium foot rests and pedal set, are just a few of the ergonomically perfect controls which give the vehicle elegance and enhance the sporting ambience.

Standing on AC Schnitzer Type IV in 18” or Type VI wheels in 18, 19 or 20 inch, the BMW Z4 takes to the stage for its world premiere. A striking entrance from the Aachen specialist, which will certainly not be forgotten in a hurry.

Koenigsegg Trevita 2010

2009-09-11T17:11:00.000-07:00

Mini Coupe Concept 2009

2009-09-03T04:05:00.000-07:00

2009 Mini Coupe Concept - Concentrated Driving Pleasure
MINI is celebrating a great birthday: Exactly fifty years ago, on 26 August 1959, the classic Mini was presented to the public for the first time, a unique story of success starting out and today giving MINI the perfect opportunity to look ahead without losing sight of the brand’s great tradition. The MINI Coupé Concept is an expression of MINI design and the great ability of the brand’s designers to fill the elementary values of the brand with new life, using the options of modern drivetrain and suspension technology, and developing fascinating perspectives for the future of the brand on this basis. Presenting the concept of an uncompromisingly sporting two-seater to be seen for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (17–27 September 2009), MINI is unveiling an unusually attractive vision of how the model family may well develop in future. The source of inspiration is once again the fundamental motive so characteristic of every MINI: driving pleasure. The MINI Coupé Concept therefore represents the ideal of a car destined in every respect to offer a thrilling experience and make every journey a truly unique thrill. The MINI Coupé Concept brings together a wide range of features for a truly sporting and ambitious style of motoring. Limited to two seats and following a philosophy of consistent lightweight construction, the car clearly meets all the requirements made of a particularly active and dynamic coupé. Compact dimensions, perfect axle load distribution and a low centre of gravity offer ideal conditions for enhancing the agility typical of MINI to a level never seen before. Through its design alone, the MINI Coupé Concept brings out all the thrill of individual mobility and the focus on pure driving pleasure. Powerful proportions and dynamic design language evoke a sense of desire and strong appeal, the MINI Coupé Concept offering a particularly undiluted expression of the brand through its sporting and unconventional stance on the road. The MINI Coupé Concept: an invitation to enjoy spontaneous mobility. With the growing model portfolio, the popularity of the MINI brand has also grown consistently in recent years. The MINI has moved beyond the restraints of urban mobility, opening up additional options and winning over new target groups. And MINI allows you to enjoy spontaneous mobility, sporting and agile handling and unmistakable style on virtually every occasion. The current models in the range already meet the most varied demands. As individual characters in their own right, the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible all offer a unique rendition of the driving experience so typical of the brand. And now the MINI Coupé Concept brings out driving pleasure in its most concentrated form, extreme lightweight technology making this two-seater particularly agile and unusually efficient. At the same time the low roofline, the precisely defined spoiler edge at the rear and other aerodynamic features enhance the car’s performance to an even higher standard. So that in its design and in the use of high-performance drivetrain technology, the MINI Coupé Concept offers ideal conditions as a compact sports car in the premium segment. This two-seater is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI – and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit carried over from the MINI John Cooper Works, the MINI Coupé Concept offers truly outstanding performance. Maximum output is 155 kW/211 hp, peak torque 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft increasing through the Overboost function for a short while to an even more substantial 280 Newton-metres/206 lb-ft. And now the MINI Coupé Concept offers everything it takes to exceed even the supreme performance of the MINI John Cooper Works with this unique power unit. At the same time this concept car clearly follows the BMW Group’s EfficientDynamics development strategy. More driving pleasure, lower emissions – the MINI Coupé Concept lives out this philosophy expressed by MINI as MINIMALISM in a particularly attractive manner. Fifty years of MINI: a vision of tomorrow marking an anniversary of today. Fifty years after the launch of the classic Mini, the appeal of the brand is greater than ever before, with the model range exuding sheer fascination wherever you go. And now, in the anniversary year of the brand, MINI is bringing together this unique tradition and the successful model range offered today with even greater creativity and technical innovation for a truly promising future. The MINI Coupé Concept is a further milestone in this ongoing development of the brand. The car takes up elementary strengths of the MINI and, through its modern technology and an innovative body concept, offers new standards and characteristics never seen before. So that the MINI Coupé Concept offers many new highlights in adding yet a further character to the existing model range. Exterior design: the look typical of MINI but with individual character. The body design of the MINI Coupé Concept also bridges the gap from the earliest days of the Mini’s history all the way to the more distant future of the brand, emphasising the unique nature of the concept as well as its full membership in the MINI family. At the same time the individual and emotional design language arouses the expectation of a particularly thrilling experience on the road. Especially at the front end of the car a number of icons typical of the brand, as well as the design style so characteristic of MINI, all come together to create a strong family resemblance. In addition, the individual look of the MINI Coupé Concept comes out also in the side view of the car as well as in the design of the rear end. This unique new two-seater measures 3,714 millimetres (146.2") in length and 1,683 millimetres (66.3") in width. Height is 1,356 millimetres (53.4"). Through these dimensions and its athletic proportions alone, the MINI Coupé Concept stands out from the beginning as a compact and muscular sports machine. The typical MINI look in particularly sporting style. The new concept car carries over the unmistakable front end look from the four-seater MINI. Smoothly balanced contours on the engine lid characterised by wide and sweeping radii, the large headlights, the homogenous shape of the radiator grille and the wide lower air intake give each model that unique look, openness and charm so typical of the brand. Through the greater rake of the windscreen on the MINI Coupé Concept, the car looks even more striking and dynamic, the low and streamlined body proving clearly that the MINI Coupé Concept is a particularly outstanding performer. The hexagon radiator grille and the large round headlights are unmistakable design features re-interpreting the front view of the classic Mini in particularly modern style. The direction indicators are integrated in the headlights, just above the innovative three-dimensional surrounds for the positioning lights and the foglamps. The entire front air dam has been adjusted to the sporting look of the car, standing out even wider and more striking than before. The chrome radiator grille on the MINI Coupé Concept is the same as on the MINI Cooper S. The inner section in the grille is however finished with bars in body colour creating a clear sign of distinction at very first sight from the other members of the MINI family. The bonnet stripes also extend into the radiator grille to provide an even more sporting and dynamic touch. With its very dynamic curvature and the stylised opening, bearing testimony to the power of the engine lurking within, the front lid likewise comes in the same look as on the particularly powerful versions of the MINI. Individual roofline as a sign of sporting presence. The side view of the MINI Coupé Concept also brings together features typical of the MINI family and new highlights in design to form a fascinating whole. The front side panels, for example, come straight from the MINI Convertible. The body joint forming the diagonal line characteristic of every MINI along the front lid and the surrounds on the front side indicators bearing out the style of the MINI Cooper S again provide an unmistakable sign of distinction with historic roots – here the classic Mini had a visible welding seam along the body. The familiarity in design resulting from these features forms an attractive contrast to the far greater rake of the A-pillars leading into the brand-new, sweeping line of the roof. Large wheels and a high waistline already give the MINI, the MINI Clubman and the MINI Convertible a particularly powerful and sporting look, with the black strip around the lower section of the body underlining this compact appearance and short body overhangs front and rear emphasising the athletic stature of the car and bearing testimony to that typical go-kart feeling at very first sight. All this now comes out even more convincingly in the MINI Coupé Concept, also through the unique flow of the roofline. The glazed section of the passenger cell referred to as the greenhouse, for example, is much lower and even more dynamic than on the brand’s “regular” models. Another feature of the MINI Coupé Concept is the strongly inclined windscreen merging gently into the roof. At the rear the roofline initially moving straight back above the heads of the driver and front passenger flows on into the sturdy C-pillar. The entire roof with all its contours thus comes in a bridge shape quite unmistakable and featured for the first time on the MINI, made up of a strong rear cornerstone formed by the C-pillar and the almost filigree structure above the passenger cell. The C-pillar is a strong visual expression of the particularly solid and torsionally rigid body structure providing not only superior occupant safety, but also the agility typical of MINI in fast manoeuvres. The C-pillar very powerful in design serves at the same time to guide your perspective towards the rear end of the car, while the side view of the MINI Coupè Concept forms a very strong and convincing wedge shape created by the roofline tapering out to the rear and the waistline rising up slightly in typical MINI style. All this gives the MINI Coupé Concept a forward-moving impression right from the start, the car clearly expressing its power and muscle even at a standstill. Through its design alone, therefore, the MINI Coupé Concept authentically visualises sporting qualities of the highest standard. Striking contours and smooth flow of air ensured by the roof spoiler and the rear spoiler edge. The rear-end design of the MINI Coupé Concept consistently follows the need to optimise the flow of air in the interest of both driving dynamics and efficiency. The principle of “form follows function” so essential to MINI, the look and design of various body elements, fully reflects the characteristic features and qualities of the car. Through its design alone, therefore, the MINI Coupé Concept clearly confirms its sporting potential in a particularly credible and convincing manner. The rear spoiler with its wing profile at the same level as the C-pillar also makes a particularly effective contribution in guiding the air along the rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept. This large air guidance element spans the entire width of the roof, increasing aerodynamic downforce on the rear axle. Tapering down elegantly, the rear window on this unique two-seater merges into a short and low rear end with staged contours in typical coupé design. Again, this follows the overriding objective to ensure an optimum flow of air without any turbulence harming the car’s aerodynamics – which is also why the air spoiler on the rear panel is appropriately sharp and clear in its profile. Beneath the air spoiler at the rear the overall look and design of the MINI Coupé Concept follows the typical philosophy of the brand. Horizontal lines running parallel to one another emphasise the wide track of the car, the body growing wider from top to bottom in cascading style highlighting the muscular stance of the car resting on its wheels in that characteristic style. The rear light clusters in upright arrangement and surrounded by a wide chrome frame are also typical of the brand. The rear air dam on the MINI Coupé Concept, in turn, comes with a diffuser split up into two sections and ensuring a smooth, swirl-free flow of air beneath the car. Impressively functional: wide-opening tailgate, generous luggage space. The tailgate on the MINI Coupé Concept is yet another highlight of the car. Deliberately foregoing the rear seat bench, this unique two-seater offers lots of additional space for taking along all kinds of luggage. Luggage capacity is 250 litres or 8.8 cu ft. To use this space most conveniently, the rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept comes with a large and wide-opening tailgate. Hinged above the roof spoiler, the entire tailgate including the rear window swings up gracefully, offering convenient access to the generous luggage space behind the rear seats of the car. And thanks to the low loading sill, accessing the luggage compartment with even heavy and bulky objects is significantly easier. The complete design of the rear end with its large tailgate is yet another example of the functional design so typical of MINI. All options offered through the concept of the car are optimised to the highest standard through carefully thought-out solutions and a good overall balance. Indeed, this principle already to be admired on the brand’s existing models, for example through the easy-load function on the MINI Convertible, makes a significant contribution to the overall substance of the car. The result is a wide range of innovative solutions quite unique in the market, emphasising the premium character of the MINI brand. On the MINI Coupé Concept this philosophy is borne out by yet another distinctive feature providing extra space and practical value: The bulkhead between the passenger and the luggage compartments comes with a lockable opening. The through-loading provided in this way, quite unusual on a two-seater coupe, gives the driver and passenger direct access even while driving to travel items they are taking along in the luggage compartment. So that bags with, say, beverages, a music CD or maps are stowed away safely but always within easy reach. Interior: sports car ambience with an exclusive range of colours and materials. The MINI Coupé Concept combines the vision of a compact sports car with thrilling agility, on the one hand, and the individual flair and style of the MINI, on the other. Through its entire concept, the car is perfectly designed to offer concentrated driving pleasure of the highest standard. This is borne out not only through the extroverted exterior in its fascinating, sporting look, but also through the interior conceived from the start for active motoring. Wide-opening doors give the driver and passenger convenient access to the interior, where they enjoy sports seats with strongly contoured side supports for a secure seating position even in particularly fast bends. A three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons enables the driver to steer precisely into bends and control the audio or communication functions with maximum ease. All other control units, in turn, are arranged ergonomically on the dashboard, taking their frequency of use into account. The breakdown of the cockpit, the dashboard and centre console again follows that special interior design so typical of MINI. Horizontal lines and air vents placed far to the outside emphasise the sheer width of the instrument panel and, at the same time, the generous style of the interior, the slender centre console giving the driver and passenger maximum legroom. The structure of the door linings so typical of the brand, finally, has also been re-interpreted, with the elliptic main element now completely closed in. The MINI Coupé Concept also comes with a large rev counter directly behind the steering wheel, while the speedometer is part of the central instrument in the upper section of the dashboard. This circular instrument well known as the Center Speedo also houses the audio system as well as the optional entertainment and navigation functions. Two Chronoswiss clocks to the right and left of the rev counter provide a close link to earlier concept cars by MINI, bridging the gap between the analogue age of the classic Mini and the digital age of the MINI. One clock is a purpose-built stopwatch for taking lap times, the second clock shows the time in classic style. The colours and materials featured inside the MINI Coupé Concept symbolise the classic sportiness of the car. Like the dashboard, the roof lining of this unprecedented two-seater comes in black providing a calm atmosphere just right for concentrating on driving conditions and essential requirements. Black trim bars combined with a carbon interior trim strip, finally, further enhance this purist look. Lightweight construction and modern suspension technology providing a new feeling of go-kart driving. The MINI Coupé Concept is definitely a MINI and definitely a sports car. The particular charm of this combination results from both the drivetrain and the suspension technology already featured in the current production models, as well as the special highlights of this two-seater concept car. Over and above their body design, the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible already set the standard today for agility and driving pleasure in their respective segments. Powerful engines and suspension technology quite superior in the small car segment then ensure a truly unique driving experience. Front-wheel drive, powerful disc brakes on all four wheels, the front axle with McPherson spring struts and a centrally guided rear axle with aluminium longitudinal arms and anti-roll bars set the foundation for uniquely safe and agile handling. EPS Electronic Power Steering with speed-related power assistance, finally, ensures precise manoeuvring round bends and gives the driver exact feedback at all times on road and driving conditions. At the same time on-demand management of steering assistance serves to maximise the car’s efficiency. The MINI Coupé Concept offers ideal conditions for raising the go-kart feeling created by the car’s drivetrain and suspension technology to an even higher standard. Its entire construction is based on a lightweight concept reducing weight particularly where it really counts for even greater agility. As an example, this two-seater comes with an aluminium roof not only optimising the overall weight of the car, but also lowering the car’s centre of gravity for a significant reduction of body movement and optimised driving behaviour. Since lower weight also means greater efficiency, the MINI Coupé Concept again offers the option to combine even greater driving pleasure with fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduced to a minimum as an important sign of our times. Traditional values, modern quality, progressive concept. Sporting success and agile handling of the highest standard are significant highlights in the history of MINI now going back five decades – and both factors have made a fundamental contribution to the ongoing popularity of this small premium car. Three overall wins in the Monte Carlo Rally and the concept of driving pleasure expressed so clearly by the car’s go-kart feeling definitely confirm the sporting potential of this small compact both back then and today. The anniversary year is therefore the ideal time to present the MINI Coupé Concept as the vision of an uncompromisingly active sports car. Another concept car presented even before the re-launch of the MINI brand proves that this philosophy has always fuelled the creativity of the MINI’s designers: The MINI Concept Monte Carlo presented in 1997 was a two-seater with a 160-hp mid-mounted engine. Through its design alone, this concept car already came with a wide range of features destined to be taken up again by the first MINI, short body overhangs front and rear, round headlights and the re-interpretation of the hexagon radiator grille providing an outlook at important styling elements on the production model to follow later. With its extremely powerful body and direct references to motorsport, the MINI Concept Monte Carlo also made a clear pledge to the rally history of the brand. Now the MINI Coupé Concept, through its unique look, takes up the almost aggressive and extroverted appearance of that former concept car, at the same time providing a new link between the history, the present and the future of the brand. It takes up traditional values of the MINI brand and combines them with the most advanced technologies to offer a fascinating vision of how the MINI model family may continue. Once again, therefore, MINI is following the needs and wishes of new target groups fully appreciative of the individual style of the brand and associating this character with clearly defined product features. The MINI Coupé Concept addresses the motorist thrilled by that unique combination of driving pleasure, lifestyle, and premium quality so typical of MINI and, at the same time, looking for sporting driving qualities of an even higher standard.

Saab 9-5 2010

2009-09-03T03:59:00.000-07:00

2010 Saab 9-5 - Start of a New Era for Saab

All New Saab 9-5 Sedan: Start of a New Era for Saab All new premium sedan to debut at Frankfurt IAA Progressive Scandinavian design inspired by Aero X and Saab heritage Engineered with driver in focus for segment leading sporty driving experience Excels in responsible performance for safety and environmental concern Most technically advanced Saab with an array of ‘high-tech’ features Making its public debut at next month’s IAA in Frankfurt, the all new Saab 9-5 sedan announced today signals the start of a new era for the Saab brand. Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, it combines stand-out looks with advanced technologies and will bring a fresh alternative choice to the premium sedan segment when sales start later in model year 2010. The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab’s aviation heritage. With frontal styling inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language. The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-like head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system. The all-turbo powertrain line-up starts at 1.6 liters and carries forward Saab’s rightsizing engine strategy, which focuses on responsible performance through the development of highly efficient and relatively small four cylinder turbo engines. There is a choice of three fuels - gasoline, diesel and E85 bioethanol – and with diesel power, the new 9-5 offers CO2 emissions as low as 139 g/km. “This car is the start of a new era for our brand,” says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile’s Managing Director. “We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The new 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab.” Scandinavian Design Forward-looking design that doesn’t ignore where it’s coming from - that sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan. “We are giving a fresh, very modern expression to some of our classic brand design cues,” says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. “We have taken visual themes in our recent concept cars, such as the Aero X, which are inspired by Scandinavian design and our brand’s aircraft heritage.” The face of the new 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a ‘wraparound’ mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab’s signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model. Viewed from any angle, the all new 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The ‘organic sculpture’ of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the ‘hockey stick’ belt-line, the strong rear C-pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork. The large Saab logo embossed in the center of the grille characterizes the more assertive, self-confident design language. The car’s dynamic character is emphasized by a falling roof-line that culminates in sweeping rear pillars which buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Latent energy is conveyed by fenders that are subtly pulled out to melt into the wheels. Below that smooth, flat rear deck, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into signature lighting. The new 9-5’s overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look. Driver-focused cabin Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new 9-5’s premium appeal. The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all new. The deep center console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling ‘altimeter’ speed read-out, a reference to Saab’s aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance. The car’s ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift. Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line harman/kardon surround sound audio system and an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10 GB of jukebox-style music files. A large center console provides stowage and connections for several portable devices through USB and Aux ports alongside a 12V power outlet. Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-out viewing screens are installed in the front seat-backs. Wired and wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing. The rear seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual zone air conditioning up front. On the road An array of chassis technologies is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the 9-5’s size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, is offered with the 2.0-liter gasoline, BioPower and 2.8 V6 turbo engines. Available throughout the range is adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab DriveSense, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting and intelligent cruise control. Two different suspension layouts are factory-fitted according to engine power and both are available with a sport chassis setting. Saab has some 30 years experience in turbocharging engines and the all-turbo powertrain line-up in the new 9-5 further develops its rightsizing engine strategy. At launch, the four cylinder choice comprises a 160 hp, 2.0-liter turbo diesel with CO2 emissions of just 139 gm/km and a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo developing 220 hp. A top-of-the-line 2.8 V6 turbo, generating 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD. Shortly after launch, a small, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo with 180 hp will be introduced, together with a 2.0-liter BioPower E85-capable engine. All transmissions will be six-speed. New era Defined and equipped by Saab as its top-of-the-line contender in the premium sedan segment, the new 9-5 is the most technically advanced car ever produced by the company. It will be built at Saab’s home plant in Trollhättan, where it has been engineered and chiefly developed. Available in Linear, Vector or Aero specification, the all new 9-5 heralds the start of a new era for Saab. Scandinavian simplicity was never this advanced!

Wiesmann GT MF5 2009

2009-09-03T03:54:00.000-07:00

2009 Wiesmann GT MF5

Pure energy and dynamism – that's the new Wiesmann GT MF5. This sports car for the purist, with its classic design and state-of-the-art technology, sets a new all-time high standard for the already impressive performance of Wiesmann sports cars. Equipped with a high-revving BMW V10 delivering 507 hp, it completes the sprint from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds. With a sensational power-to-rate ratio of 2.7 kg/hp and a top speed of 310 km/h, this Coupé plays for top honours in the premier league for sports cars. Exclusive driving enjoyment is guaranteed with the Wiesmann GT MF5! "With the MF5 we are primarily addressing the wishes of many GT enthusiasts who want to express their individuality through even more power and sportiness," says Friedhelm Wiesmann, the spokesperson for the management at Wiesmann. His brother, Martin Wiesmann, responsible as director for development and production, displays similar enthusiasm for the new Wiesmann model: "The GT MF5 represents the ideal model with which to round off our range at the top end, and it is certainly the most exciting sports car that Wiesmann has ever presented to the public." The car's powerful exterior styling already hints at the outstanding driving dynamics that await the driver of a Wiesmann GT MF5: the extremely low, crouching body combined with the wide tyres promise power in abundance. The wing and the diffuser provide plenty of downforce on the rear suspension, guaranteeing excellent stability even at high speeds. A high-performance suspension system has been developed with a great deal of effort at the manufacturing plant in Dülmen, offering exclusive driving enjoyment to the driver of an MF5, but also the necessary degree of safety. Energy-absorbing body zones also contribute to the safety of the Wiesmann GT MF5, along with the rigid aluminium monocoque with integrated side-impact protection, as well as ABS as standard in conjunction with DSC dynamic stability control. The low overall weight combined with aerodynamic perfection also delivers an extremely low emissions figure in this performance category. The cockpit is geared in all respects to the functions of a sports car. Everything that is necessary for driving and operating the vehicle is within perfect reach of the driver. The low seating position, just ahead of the rear axle, ensures that the driver senses and experiences every movement of this driving machine. Optimum contact with the vehicle is guaranteed by the newly developed sports bucket seats with excellent lateral support, which can be adapted to the body contours of driver and passenger as required. One push of the silver starter button of the Wiesmann GT MF5, just next to the ignition key, and the fun begins! Data and facts Kerb weight 1,380 kg Maximum permissible laden weight: 1,650 kg Dimensions: Length 4.30 m Width 1.95 m Height 1.17 m Wheelbase: 2,507 mm Chassis: aluminium monocoque, glued and riveted Body: high-quality, glass fibre reinforced composite material, diffuser, rear wing, enlarged air intakes, green tinted windows laminated windscreen, side and rear windows made of safety glass, free choice of external paint finishes Engine: front-mounted V10 mid-engine with three-way catalytic converter, petrol injection, stainless steel twin exhaust pipes Cylinders/valves Number 10/4 Engine capacity: cc 4,999 Bore/stroke mm 92/75.2 Nominal power output/ Nominal engine speed: kW/hp/rpm 373/507/7750 Maximum torque/ engine speed: Nm/rpm 520/6100 Maximum engine speed: rpm 8,250 Compression: 12:1 Fuel grade/ octane number: RON 95-98 Fuel consumption: combined 14.8 l / 100 km urban 22.7 l / 100 km extra-urban 10.2 l / 100 km CO2 emissions: combined 357 g/km Emissions level: EU 4 Gearbox: 7-speed sequential manual gearbox (SMG) Gear ratios: I/II/III/IV/V/VI 3.99/2.65/1.81/1.39/1.16/1/0.83/R 3.99 Rear axle ratio: 3.62 Differential: variable differential lock Top speed: km/h 310 Acceleration, 0-100 km/h: 3.9 secs. Petrol tank capacity: approx. 70 l. Suspension/wheels Front suspension: Double wishbone, anti-roll bar Rear suspension: Double wishbone and trailing link, anti-roll bar Front wheel rims: 8.5 x 19", BBS RS-GT alloy wheels Rear wheel rims: 10.0 x 19", BBS RS-GT alloy wheels Tyre dimensions: 245/40 ZR 19 - front 275/35 ZR 19 - rear Front brakes Dual-piston sliding callipers with perforated composite brake disks 374 diameter x 36 mm Rear brakes Single-piston sliding callipers with perforated composite brake disks 370 diameter x 24 mm Safety: Integrated side impact protection ABS (Antilock Braking System) DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) Height and reach-adjustable safety steering column BMW security system incl. recognised electronic immobiliser (EWS lll) Three-point seat belts Hydraulic power steering

Audi R8 5.2 FSI by ABT 2010

2009-09-03T03:49:00.000-07:00

2009 Audi R8 5.2 FSI by ABT - 10 Cylinders and 600hp

Ten cylinders. 600 HP. The Abt R8 5.2 FSI These figures make the hearts of sports car drivers beat faster: 600 HP (441 kW), acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, top speed of 322 km/h. The car to which these impressive performance figures belong is the ABT R8 5.2 FSI. Its V10 engine draws plenty of power from its large 5,204 cubic centimetre capacity – all the more if ABT POWER gives it an extra boost. 75 extra HP or 55 more kW provides a powerful trust at all speeds as well as increasing the torque. The fact that the medium-engine super sports car becomes a winner on any track is not just due to its excellent performance characteristics, but also the perfectly coordinated bodywork package. It has been designed by the DTM crew of ABT Sportsline according to the latest motorsport knowledge, including the use of high-end carbon materials. The focus was above all on the optimum distribution of weight and a systematic light-weight construction. "The 600 HP is not just intended to exist on paper, but also be available on the road", says Christian Abt. At the same time the ABT R8 thereby looks extremely dynamic. The front spoiler, side sills and rear apron outline the bodywork and give it a more powerful presence even when at a standstill. They form one unit with the distinctive rear wing and the typical ABT 4-pipe exhaust system. The super sports car is presented on BR-type 20-inch wheels which suit the classic design. The ABT R8 5.2 FSI is a design milestone and is of course very, very fast. This is because the 600 ABT horsepower contain, what the dynamic design of the car promises.

Jaguar XJ - Sleek, Sporty2010

2009-07-11T16:28:00.000-07:00

2010 Jaguar XJ - Sleek, Sporty, Sophisticated

Jaguar Cars tonight officially unveiled the all-new XJ car at the Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea, London. Hosted by Jay Leno, one of the world's best-known chat show hosts and a renowned car enthusiast, the launch of the new Jaguar flagship was attended by an invited audience that included public figures, business leaders, celebrities and media. Jaguar Cars Managing Director, Mike O'Driscoll, commented: "These are truly exciting times for us at Jaguar. The new XJ is truly beautiful, exhilarating to drive, and with its bold, enlightened approach to design, it meets the challenges of our fast-changing world. It re-imagines the ultimate sporting luxury car." The all-new XJ is available to order now (dependent on market), with the first customers due to receive their cars in early 2010. Prices start at £52,500 for the standard wheelbase 3.0-litre V6 diesel luxury. Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury - it offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and engineering without compromise. Building on the success of the new XK and XF models, the introduction of the all-new XJ is a landmark for the revitalised Jaguar brand. Clearly positioned as the company’s four-door flagship, it extends the appeal of the XJ to a new generation of customers. “The new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar. Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows, that powerful stance and its wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction", said Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars. An innovative new panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all-new XJ’s design concept, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside. Standard- and long-wheelbase models are available from launch. The long-wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional 125mm of legroom. Whichever the wheelbase, the XJ’s 520-litre boot can swallow two large suitcases side-by-side. The all-new XJ's cabin is a marvel in its own right, blending elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully-crafted leather and veneer surfaces. To complement the all-new cabin design is a level of choice in colours, veneers and leathers not seen before in a Jaguar. Three specification levels – Luxury, Premium Luxury and Portfolio – allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes. Beyond this are the Supercharged and the top-of-the-range Supersport, the latter providing the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather roof-lining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inlays. All of Jaguar's acclaimed new ultra-efficient Gen III petrol and diesel engines will be available in the XJ. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel, 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and 5.0-litre supercharged V8 have already proved their breadth of ability, and they are joined by a 470 horsepower version of the supercharged engine. Fuel economy and emissions are also outstanding, with the diesel-powered XJ returning combined economy figures of 40.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 184g/km. Proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all-new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar. Inside the car, advanced new technologies have allowed Jaguar’s designers to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a simple car cabin. Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual Instruments complement an innovative, Dual-View technology 8-inch Touch-screen that can project DVD movies or television programmes to the passenger while the driver views vehicle functions or follows satellite navigation. Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is comparable in audio quality to the best in-home entertainment. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub. The all-new XJ also takes a new approach to sustainable motoring. Constructed using Jaguar’s aerospace-inspired aluminium body technology, the XJ is lighter than its rivals by at least 150kg which significantly improves performance, handling and economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety. The lightweight aluminium structure – with 50 percent recycled material – underpinned by a lifecycle approach to vehicle design and manufacture, enables the new XJ to minimise its carbon footprint. This alone creates a potential saving of three tonnes of CO2 per vehicle, compared to a bodyshell made from new aluminium. The all-new XJ offers extremely attractive cost of ownership with impressive fuel economy and emissions performance across the range; high predicted residual values and 15,000-mile service intervals. These benefits are just some of the results of Jaguar's obsessive attention to detail during product development. Processes such as the use of the latest ‘virtual’ technologies to implement 40,000 quality-specific assessments are one of the reasons that the Jaguar brand has received numerous recognitions for vehicle quality. Jaguar Coventry, England, United Kingdom Status: not an ad Tags: 2010 Jaguar XJ - Sleek, Sporty, Sophisticated, car, sedan, luxury, ARTICLE, EDITORS

Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni 2009

2009-07-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni Edition

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni – Driving fun with absolute precision He has long been revered as one of the many legends surrounding the world’s most uncompromising sports car brand – Valentino Balboni, a remarkable test driver with his own personal cult status. Automobili Lamborghini now presents a model in his honour and bearing his name – the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni. The latest version of the Gallardo, Lamborghini’s most successful model of all time - overall, more than 9,000 units of the model range have already been produced - boasts not only its own distinctive design and exclusive equipment, but its technology is unique too, as indicated by the model badge: the 550 stands for the power output in hp and the 2 is for rear wheel drive. For several decades, Valentino Balboni has had a distinct influence on the character of the super sports car bearing the sign of the bull. With his fine-tuning and testing work, he has helped to shape many automotive legends, from the Lamborghini Miura of the 60s through to the current Gallardo and Murciélago models. Balboni was hired in 1967 by company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini himself. From early on, it was evident that the young Balboni had a special feel for cars, that most sensitive of all instincts that connects to the ‘life blood’ of an automobile and defines the soul of a test driver. “A Lamborghini must always combine the precision of a race car with the reliability of a good friend,” says Balboni. Since 1973, he has sat at the wheel of every prototype built by the brand, and even most production cars have passed through his hands before being delivered to their customers. This has turned Balboni into one of the most important representatives of the brand, with an outstanding reputation and status among the brand’s fans and customers worldwide. Limited to 250 units After over 40 years with Lamborghini, Balboni is now officially retired. Yet, Valentino Balboni continues to travel to many countries around the world as an ambassador of the brand. The special exclusivity of the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is guaranteed – it is limited to 250 units. Light-footed yet extremely safe With this latest version of the Gallardo, Lamborghini is honouring its long-standing test driver in a very special way. The LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni was conceived in line with his own thinking, and it meets many customers’ requests for a model with a unique character, which offers a very special kind of active driving fun. The Balboni model is the only current Lamborghini that delivers its power to the road via its rear wheels alone. Rear wheel drive has a special appeal to those sports car drivers who enjoy a particular driving style. Thanks to the eminently powerful V10 driveline, controlled oversteer is no problem – naturally always to the extent defined by the driver - because refined road manners and perfectly tuned assistance systems mean that the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is an exceptionally safe sports car to drive. Driving fun with unique character In order to shape this unique character that combines driving fun and safety, the engineers at Sant’Agata Bolognese have incorporated extensive modifications into the LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni. It was not simply a question of moving the transmission to the rear axle, the vehicle had to be adjusted and tuned in every element of its driving dynamics. This includes springs, dampers, stabilisers and even the tyres. The aerodynamics were also adjusted to take account of the change to the power flow. The rear axle differential, with a 45 percent limited slip, was also redeveloped, as was the calibration of the e-gear transmission. One significant point was the adjustments made to the ESP system. While the standard program is focused on high stability, the CORSA program permits greater drift angles, thus enabling drivers to enjoy the dynamics of the LP 550-2 to their full extent. Outstanding performance is guaranteed Adjustments have also been made to the very heart of the Gallardo, the 5.2 litre ten-cylinder: the perfect synthesis of hi-revving pleasure, pulling power, a constantly exuberant temperament and a powerful symphony played in all keys. In the Valentino Balboni, the compact and lightweight power unit generates 405 kW (550 hp). At a dry weight of only 1,380 kilograms, this guarantees outstanding performance: the LP 550-2 is catapulted from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62mph) in a breathtaking 3.9 seconds, while the top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph) guarantees its place among the ultimate in super sports cars. Powerful elegance in its distinctive design The Valentino Balboni is not only unique in terms of its technology: its design and equipment reinforce its exclusivity. Its classic sporting character is emphasised by a colour strip in white and gold running from the front panel over the roof and parts of the engine cover all the way to the rear spoiler, with inspiration from the classic sports cars from the ‘70s. This colour treatment underscores the powerful elegance of the Gallardo and emphasises the unique Lamborghini design DNA. The Special Edition is available in eight colours, from Bianco Monocerus through to Verde Ithaca, or Arancio Borealis to Nero Noctis. The Scorpius wheels retain their dark grey finish, while the brake callipers come in black, orange or yellow, depending on the exterior paint finish. Classic sporting look for the interior, too The characteristic colour combination is repeated in the interior. The basic colour of the full leather upholstery is black. Both seats, however, feature the colour strip in white. The centre console is completely upholstered in Polar white leather to create a powerful accent. A badge below the left side window bears the signature of Valentino Balboni and the production number of the car. The exclusivity of the Valentino Balboni is augmented further by its extensive equipment. Alongside several new leather features in the interior, there is also the transparent engine cover, the rear view camera, the navigation system with Bluetooth and the lifting system for the front axle that makes it easier to drive over obstacles. In addition to the extensive standard equipment, a list of further options is available including e-gear transmission and carbon ceramic brakes. Suggested retail price – without taxes Europe: 162.000 € UK: 137.900 £ USA: 219.800 $ Lamborghini Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Valentino Balboni Edition, car, sports car, coupe, special edition, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Ford Mustang 2010

2009-06-26T05:46:00.000-07:00

2010 Ford Mustang - The Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition

Forty-five years after he introduced the original Ford Mustang, launched at a dramatic press conference at the 1964 New York World's Fair, auto industry visionary Lee Iacocca today announced a new version of the famous muscle car – the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang – a breathtaking vehicle that utilizes the latest in Ford performance technology with a style and panache that screams, Mustang fastback. Only 45 "2009½" Iacocca Silver Edition Mustangs – all painted a special "Iacocca" chosen silver hue – will be built. For more details and videos go to www.ILegacy.com Nearly two years in the making, the Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is a collaborative effort by Iacocca, designer Michael Leone, and Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters, the world-class coachbuilding and Design Company in Fountain Valley, Calif. The new business venture is called I Legacy, and it will be in concert with Galpin Ford, the exclusive Ford dealership to offer these Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustangs to the public. In a word, the new Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is stunning. The lines flow organically from front to rear. The hand-crafted piece of rolling art, with its innovations and impact of the fastback design is truly exceptional in every way. With its sunken headlights, slanted grill and low stance, the car gives you "street attitude." "Once in a while a car comes along that changes everything, and that was the original Mustang," said Iacocca. The Silver Edition Mustang perpetuates the Iacocca mystique. The car begins life on a 2009 Mustang platform, which is then uniquely modified and coachbuilt. While the exterior fastback design of the Iacocca Silver Mustang is compelling, the mechanical underpinnings are true American muscle. Two power plant options will be offered, a normally-aspirated 4.6-liter Ford V8 rated at 320 horsepower and an optional supercharged version that delivers a head-snapping 400 horsepower. Both engines are covered by a factory Ford warranty. Drivers will harness the power through a quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission. The car's suspension has been upgraded to keep pace with the power delivery. A Ford Racing Handling Package adds firmer springs and re-valved shock absorbers. A 14-inch Ford Racing Braking Package is optional. All suspension components will be covered under a factory Ford warranty, as well. Inside the Iacocca Silver Mustang, the interior is resplendent with luxurious touches that highlight the car's special heritage, including Iacocca Diamond Design leather seats with embroidery stitching, an Iacocca signature dash plaque with serial number, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with "I" badge, and Iacocca-badged aluminum door sill plates. The cars will initially be revealed and then available at a reception in late July, at Southern California's Galpin Ford dealership, the world's largest volume Ford dealer for 19 years, as well as an innovator in the promotion and retail of specialty automobiles. The price is yet to be announced. The "Father of the Mustang" returns to the legend that started it all. For more photos, videos and/or information about the Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang and I Legacy, please log onto www.ilegacy.com. For sales inquiries please call Galpin Ford's Iacocca Mustang specialist, Brandon Boeckmann at 1-800-829-0744. Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang – Specifications Engines • 4.6-liter V8 with 320 HP (Ford Racing Cold Air - under WARRANTY) • 4.6-liter V8 with 400HP Supercharger Optional (Ford Racing Supercharger - under WARRANTY) Drivetrain • 5-speed stick shift transmission (there might be automatics) Suspension • Ford Racing Handling Package (Ford Racing Package - under WARRANTY) • 14-inch' Brakes Optional (Ford Racing Package - under WARRANTY) Wheels & Tires • Iacocca Design 20" Chrome wheels with "I" Design center cap • 20''x 9 ½ " (F), 20"x 9 ½ " (R) • Goodyear Eagle RSA 245 X 45 X R20 Interior • Iacocca Diamond Design Leather Seats with Embroidery Stitching • Iacocca Signature Dash Plaque with Serial Number • Iacocca Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel with "I" badge • Iacocca Aluminum Door Still Plates • One-Touch Up/Down power Windows • Two Power Outlets • Variable-Speed Windshield Wipers • Rear Window Defroster • Air-Conditioning Exterior • Iacocca DESIGN FASTBACK • Iacocca Design Hood Emblem • Iacocca Design Trunk Cap "I" Emblem • Iacocca Design Trunk Lettering Ford Dearborn, Michigan, U.S.A. Status: not an ad Tags: 2010 Ford Mustang - The Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition, car, sports car, coupe, special edition, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Mini Cooper JCW 2009

2009-06-22T05:03:00.000-07:00

Winning type: the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50.

10.06.2009 - Limited MINI special edition evokes the birth of the brand and John Cooper’s Formula One title victory 50 years ago. Munich. Both were revolutionary and triumphant: in the summer of 1959 Alec Issigonis presented his concept for a small car which, with its transverse-mounted front four-cylinder engine and space for four occupants plus luggage, was to become a byword for economy of space and driving fun. That same year, sports car constructor John Cooper won his first Formula One World Championship title with Jack Brabham at the wheel. 50 years on, the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 evokes both the start of the triumphal path of the classic Mini as well as victory in the F1 Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship for John Cooper’s racing team. This MINI special edition was inspired by John Cooper’s son, Mike. His signature appears on the facia and on one of the bonnet stripes. It will have a limited production run of 250 units and was unveiled to the public at the 2009 MINI United Festival in Silverstone. The car is based on the MINI John Cooper Works and driven by a 155 kW/211 hp four-cylinder engine with Twin- Scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection. The production version of the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 features numerous exterior and interior details reflecting the racing pedigree of the brand. The bodywork of the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 comes in a new colour for MINI, namely Connaught Green – harking back to the famous colour of British race cars of the 1950s and 60s era. It is combined with the roof and bonnet stripes in Pepper White. The green with the white bonnet stripes mirror the colour concept of the Cooper F1 cars. The specification of these colours was provided by Mike Cooper giving the car its authenticity. Mike was consulted throughout the development by the MINI Design department. Mike’s full name is “John” Michael Cooper and he signs himself John Cooper. His signature appears on one bonnet stripe and on a facia plaque. Further accentuating the competitive character of the special edition are the John Cooper Works aerodynamics package and John Cooper Works Cross Spoke CHALLENGE light-alloy wheels in Jet Black. Designed for extreme sporting fun outside and in. Ensuring both an optimal view and a striking look are bi-xenon headlights with black interior surfaces and additional driving lights with black housings. The MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 also features a plethora of carbon fibre features, among them the bonnet scoop on the bonnet, rear diffuser, exterior mirror caps and tailgate handle. These provide the link to the modern racing era. Special numbering on the side scuttles finishers identifies each MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 as an individual entity of an exclusive limited series. Regarding the interior colour and trim, the racing theme is maintained by Carbon Black overlaid by subtle sporty red touches. The full leather sports seats come in black with red piping and the red theme is perpetuated with co-ordinating red knee-rolls, armrests and red stitching on the floor mats, gearshift & handbrake gaiters. Facia, and door grip finishers continue the carbon fibre theme, as does the John Cooper Works insert on the Sports Steering Wheel, which has an Alcantara rim conceived for sporty driving fun. Technology from the race track: four-cylinder engine with 155 kW/211 hp. Like the design features of the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50, the power source under its bonnet is similarly defined by the racing competence of MINI John Cooper Works. This 1.6-litre four-cylinder unit is based on the engine of the MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE that was first fielded in the 2008 MINI CHALLENGE. It provides 155 kW/211 hp and develops maximum torque of 260 Newton metres between 1 850 and 5 600 rpm, which can even be briefly increased to 280 Nm thanks to an overboost feature. Power transmission is via a six-speed manual gearbox. All this enables the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, going on to a top speed of 238 km/h. Average consumption in the EU test cycle is 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with a CO2 figure of 165 grams per kilometre. Also key to the superior performance of the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 is its suspension technology, which is unique for this vehicle class. In addition to the McPherson struts on the front axle and a central-arm rear axle otherwise not found in the small car segment, electromechanical power steering (EPS) also helps guarantee safe and thrillingly precise handling. A Sport button (also standard) on the centre console activates a palpably more dynamic setting with sharper steering response and enhanced precision. In keeping with this, the Sport button also switches the accelerator pedal control map to an even sportier mode. The large sports brake system with red aluminium callipers guarantees short stopping distances. It responds with precision and brake power can be finely applied. Standard equipment also features Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) including Hill Assist, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) and Brake Assist. With DTC switched off, furthermore, an Electronic Differential Lock Control system (also fitted as standard) is activated for the drive axle, supporting more dynamic driving when accelerating out of corners or switchbacks, for example. 50 years ago: revolutionary concepts lead to success. The MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50 is the youngest and at the same time the most intriguing result of a long motor sport tradition shared by the MINI and John Cooper Works brands. Even before the classic Mini was launched onto the market, sports car constructor John Cooper had been casting his eye on this revolutionary new small car. A boost in engine output and a few minor tweaks rapidly transformed what was above all a practical two-door car into a thoroughly competitive sports machine. In the 1960s the Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper S models made their mark as serial winners both in rally racing and on the race track. Absolute highlights in the racing career of the classic Mini are its three overall wins in the Monte Carlo Rally of 1964, 1965 and 1967. As a close friend and business partner of Mini creator Alec Issigonis, John Cooper paved the way for – and gave his name to – these Mini variants that were to prove so successful in the sporting arena. The man who recognised the competitive potential of the Mini early on and then systematically capitalised on it had previously already created a revolution on the world’s race tracks. He was the first constructor, along with his father Charles Cooper, to field a mid-engined sports car in the Formula One World Championship. In doing so, the team set a trailblazing trend for the entire motor sport sector. In 1959 and 1960, Cooper race cars scooped up the Constructors’ and Drivers’ title in the Formula One World Championship – a first in racing history for mid-engined models. It was a concept that caught on: to this day, all Formula One cars are built according to this principle. 50 years on, the legendary British race track at Silverstone provided the perfect backdrop for the world premiere of the MINI John Cooper Works World Championship 50. From 22 to 24 May 2009, MINI fans from around the world celebrated the 50th anniversary of the brand at the MINI United Festival. They gathered together to enjoy an exciting programme of live performances by top stars from the international music scene, lifestyle action in typical MINI style, and countless intriguing glimpses of the brand heritage. There was of course plenty of racing action as well: Silverstone hosted two rounds of the current German MINI CHALLENGE – reason enough to look back on a racing history as successful as it is diverse. Mini London, England, United Kingdom Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Mini Cooper JCW World Championship 50 Edition, car, micro car, sports car, coupe, special edition, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport -2010

2009-06-13T08:01:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport - Starting at $55,720

Pricing announced for the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport Rafferty announced pricing of the all-new 2010 Corvette Grand Sport. Pricing for the Grand Sport coupe is $55,720 and GS convertible is $59,530. Both prices include a $950 destination freight charge. "The Corvette Grand Sport achieves a 0 - 60 time in less than four seconds, pulls 1.0g on the skid pad and still boasts an impressive 26 highway mpg," Rafferty said. "These numbers are unmatched by any of Corvette's competitors." Chevrolet Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A. Status: not an ad Tags: 2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport - Starting at $55,720, car, convertible, sports car, coupe, special edition, targa, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Chevrolet Camaro Launches-2010 - in the Middle East

2009-06-13T07:54:00.000-07:00

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Launches in the Middle East

Chevrolet Launches All-New Camaro in Middle East Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The all-new Chevrolet Camaro has taken North America by storm and is set to expand Chevy's global appeal with its launch in the Middle East later this summer. Michael Devereux, President of GM Middle East, said, "The all-new Camaro delivers the great looks, performance and technology that Middle East buyers expect in a modern sports car. Enthusiasts in the region started booking their cars months ago, and we expect our allocation of this iconic vehicle to sell out very quickly." Built on GM's new, global rear-wheel-drive architecture, the Middle East version of the Camaro is offered in a V-6-powered LT model and a V-8-powered SS version. All models and powertrain combinations are matched with fuel-saving six-speed transmissions. Advanced technologies, including engines with direct injection and Active Fuel Management, enable a satisfying balance of exhilarating performance and good fuel economy. Under the hood, Camaro LT uses a 3.6L engine with variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel economy. LT models are estimated at 29 mpg in highway driving, for great fuel economy to complement their fun driving experience. The high-performance Camaro SS is equipped with a powerful 6.2L V-8, with a choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Inside the four-passenger cabin, a well-executed balance of heritage, modern design and attention to detail conveys simplicity and refinement with contemporary details in the cluster, switches, dials and lighting. The Camaro is set to go on sale in the Middle East later this summer but buyers across the region can configure and pre-order their 2010 Camaro now by visiting Chevrolet's exclusive regional website at www.camaroarabia.com. Chevrolet Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A. Status: not an ad Tags: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro Launches in the Middle East, car, sports car, coupe, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Chevrolet Nomad Corvette -2009

2009-06-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

2009 Chevrolet Nomad Corvette - Custom 54 Sport Wagon

June 2, 2009, Molalla, Oregon - Superior Glass Works today proudly introduces the Limited Edition Superior 54 Sport Wagon. Styled in tribute to the 1954 General Motors' Motorama Corvette Nomad, The Superior 54 is enhanced with 21st century performance. Available only as a Complete Rolling Package, each will be delivered with the body and chassis fully assembled - ready for paint, interior, engine, wiring and other personal touches to create the Restomod, Custom, or Pro-Touring vehicle desired. Manufactured in Oregon with the highest-quality, hand-laid composite and reinforced with a stout steel sub-structure, the body includes a complete set of custom-crafted window glass and chrome trim. The body's stunning looks are complemented with modern conveniences such as power windows, power door locks and air conditioning. "The Superior 54 Sport Wagon is a very special car," said Brad Peterson, owner of Superior Glass Works. "There has always been a mystique surrounding the Motorama cars and we are excited to offer our Superior 54 to a select few looking to drive their own piece of history." The Superior 54 Sport Wagon chassis is equipped with modern, high-performance, C5 Corvette suspension. Features include: The custom frame designed and built in partnership with Art Morrison Enterprises, Inc., including Morrison's front cross member, steering arms, sway bar, and power rack and pinion steering. The independent front and rear suspensions use 1997-2004 C5 Corvette components. The front suspension includes stock Corvette control arms, spindles, and brakes, plus high-performance coil over shocks in place of the stock leaf spring. The rear suspension utilizes a custom narrowed stock cradle, with the half-shafts and leaf spring narrowed accordingly. The choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transaxle. Superior Glass Works is completely tooled up and ready to build the Limited Edition Superior 54 Sport Wagon. A $50,000 deposit secures a spot on the waiting list for one of the 25 Complete Rolling Packages to be sold. The initial total package price is $125,000. Call 888-244-9259 or visit www.Superior54.com for more information. Superior Glass Works has served street rodders, drag racers, customizers and restorers for more than 30 years. We've earned our reputation by producing the highest quality fiberglass bodies and parts, and complete, custom chassis. We are the leading manufacturer of fiberglass parts for 1931 - 1955 Chevrolet cars and trucks. The company also offers 14 street rod bodies, 11 drag race bodies, in fiberglass and carbon fiber, along with a full-service chassis shop. Superior Glass Works is a long-term member of industry organizations: Specialty Equipment Market Association/Hot Rod Industry Alliance, National Street Rod Association and Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Visit www.superiorglassworks.com for more information. private Anytown, U.S.A. Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Chevrolet Nomad Corvette - Custom 54 Sport Wagon, car, concept car, custom, sports car, station wagon, coupe, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Infiniti FX 2009

2009-06-12T08:21:00.000-07:00

2009 Infiniti FX Special Editions for the UK

Infiniti, the luxury automotive brand from Japan, confirms UK pricing and delivery for the first model in its range of performance cars: the V6 or V8 powered, all-wheel drive FX. Three-model FX range priced from £42,600 for the 320PS FX37 GT Equipped as standard with features luxury car buyers expect … and some they don’t Range-topping FX50S powered by a 390PS V8 engine giving acceleration to 62mph in 5.8 seconds; specification includes Intelligent Brake Assist and Rear Active Steer Part of Infiniti’s five model range being launched in the UK from September 2009 which can be reserved now at www.infiniti.co.uk Infiniti’s Total Ownership Experience aims to offer industry-leading levels of customer service UK marks the 12th country launch for the 20-year-old Infiniti brand across Western Europe since October 2008 ROLLE, Switzerland (June 10, 2009) – A new name in automotive luxury, a new line of performance cars headed by the ground-breaking FX, and a whole new ownership experience arrive in the UK from September with the launch of Infiniti. UK prices and specification, announced today, position the FX at the heart of the large crossover market where its dramatic styling, comprehensive standard equipment and peerless quality are ready to stand comparison with any rival. The three-model FX line-up starts at £42,600 on the road (OTR) for the FX37 GT and rises to £53,800 for the FX50S. This performance champion of the range can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.8 seconds. As well as a complete specification aimed at the enthusiast driver, the FX offers something else as well: an ownership experience to make every FX customer feel like a VIP. Infiniti can promise this partly because it is not aiming for large volumes – unusually the company is happy for its products to be a rare sight on Britain’s roads. Infiniti expects its customers to appreciate this level of exclusivity, too. The FX is exceptional as a full-size five-seater crossover for its relatively light weight – aluminium parts make it the lightest SUV in its class – and engine technology that takes V6/V8 efficiency to new levels, benefiting both performance and economy. Infiniti takes an intelligent view when it comes to specifying its products, standardising the sort of features luxury buyers expect … and some they don’t, including Scratch Shield paint. A long equipment tally means less time wasted by the customer ploughing through an options list. For example, every FX comes not only with leather upholstery but also electrically adjustable, heated AND ventilated front seats. Yet Infiniti still offers a high degree of personalisation possibilities, not least through a wide variety of colours and trim. Exceptional equipment across the FX range include Infiniti’s new Connectiviti multimedia platform. Comprising a host of entertainment, information and convenience features in a notably user-friendly format, Connectiviti is an integral part of every Infiniti FX in the UK. The 30GB hard-disk drive satellite navigation version, Connectiviti+ (optional on the FX37 models and standard on the FX50S) comes with smart route recalculation and speed camera warnings, as well as access to 22,000 hotels, restaurants and points of interest in a world first tie-up with Michelin Guides. The buying and running of an FX also aim to raise the bar with the inclusion of Infiniti’s Total Ownership Experience. Although new to UK customers, this initiative has been part of the Infiniti offering since the brand’s inception 20 years ago. The unique Infiniti experience starts out with a visit to an Infiniti Centre. Elegant and welcoming, the Centres aim to capture the ambience of a boutique hotel rather than traditional car showroom. The emphasis is on hospitality, just as it is in the country Infiniti comes from: Japan. The first Infiniti Centre in the UK will open this September on the outskirts of Reading, near to the M4, with other sites to follow shortly afterwards. In all, Infiniti expects to have around 12 Centres open across the UK within the next two years. With an online experience second to none and VIP service which offers annual free collection and delivery of an Infiniti up to a 150 mile radius, customers will never feel far from an Infiniti Centre. Indeed, with an emphasis on recognising Infiniti customers as individuals, everything is done to make choosing, buying, running and owning an Infiniti FX as rewarding and stress-free as possible. But if that sounds a little dull, remember Infiniti’s minimum 320PS power output … which thanks to a sports-tuned exhaust, sounds truly glorious. EVERY INFINITI FX FOR THE UK COMES WITH… Seven-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control Magnesium gear-shift ‘paddles’ ‘Active torque distribution’ intelligent all-wheel drive Opposed calliper brakes (front 4 pistons; rear 2 pistons) Bi-Xenon adaptive cornering headlights Diagonally stitched leather upholstery Heated and ventilated front seats 10-way power driver’s seat 8-way power front passenger seat Electrically adjustable steering column Six airbags Speed-sensitive power steering ASC stability control Infiniti I-Key smart access and welcome light procedure Rear privacy glass Hand stained Maple Wood trim ‘Scratch Shield’ self-repairing paint Automatic driving position correction and memory ‘Fine Vision’ electroluminescent gauges Cruise control Auto dimming rear view mirror, automatic lights and wipers Electric glass sunroof PLUS Connectiviti package: 2GB Music Box 7in multi information colour display CD player with MP3/WMA compatibility iPod/USB connection Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity Voice recognition Steering wheel controls Rear view camera Front and rear parking sensors INFINITI FX37 GT - £42,600 OTR As well as all the standard FX features (see list above), the GT gets a true GT’s engine: a new 320PS (316bhp) 3.7-litre version of the group’s award-winning, petrol-fuelled V6 with Infiniti’s variable valve event and lift technology. In the FX it offers 0-62mph acceleration in just 6.8 seconds and a top speed where the law and conditions allow of 145mph. Ease of driving is assured by a hefty 360Nm (266lb ft) of pulling power while in league with the FX GT’s high performance is an official combined fuel cycle figure of 23.4mpg. The engine is ahead of emissions requirements, being compliant with the Euro 5 standard. For the record, its CO2 emissions figure is 282g/km. With a standard seven-speed automatic gearbox and magnesium paddle shifters, near perfect weight distribution and such a high power output, the GT offers a dynamic drive with superlative comfort, luxury and safety. This model also fits the GT bill with its standard 20in alloy wheels and three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel. In addition there‘s a push button engine starter and an intelligent I-Key that can be programmed with each driver’s preferred seat/steering wheel/mirror settings. INFINITI FX37S - £44,600 OTR For an extra £2000 over the FX37 GT, the S adds: Continuous Damping Control (CDC) 14-way power driver’s seat Sports front seats Six-spoke metallic-finish Enkei 21 inch alloy wheels 265/45 performance tyres Dark chrome exterior trim With its subtly different exterior trim and decidedly purposeful wheel and tyre combination, the S takes the GT package a sporty step further. But the S is about more than just looks. The front seats get a sports makeover for more cornering support. The driver seat’s 14-way adjustment includes side bolsters that move in and out at the touch of a button for a bespoke driving position whatever the driver’s shape or size. Technology in the S is boosted by the addition of CDC dampers. These are electronically controlled shock absorbers which, via a variety of sensors, continuously tailor the level of damping to suit road and driving conditions. CDC can be left in automatic, for optimal ride and handling at all times, or switched to Sport mode in order to call up every ounce of the FX’s handling prowess for the most challenging of roads. The FX37S uses the same 3.7-litre 320PS (316bhp) V6 engine as the GT and claims 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 145mph. INFINITI FX50S - £53,800 OTR For an extra £9200 over the FX37S, the FX50S adds: 390PS (385bhp) 5.0-litre V8 Rear Active Steer Around View Monitor Intelligent Cruise Control Intelligent Brake Assist Tyre Pressure Monitoring System PLUS Connectiviti+ package: 30GB hard disk drive navigation 8in touch screen 3D colour display 10GB (equivalent to 300 CDs) Music Box DVD playback Navi/audio voice command Premium Bose 11-speaker sound system All Connectiviti features Michelin Guides points of interest and restaurant/hotel information Smart route recalculation to avoid jams Automatic warning of stationary speed, average speed and red light cameras As befits the marque’s flagship, the FX50S doesn’t compromise. But the FX50S isn’t just exceptionally well-equipped, it is a technological tour de force offering levels of performance and handling for thoroughbred sports machine status. Its combination of power, equipment, standard technology and all-weather usability is arguably unique at this price. At the heart of the FX50S is a new 5.0-litre V8 which, thanks to Infiniti’s patented Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, combines a high power unit of 390PS (385bhp) with torque of 500Nm (369lb ft). It is enough for breathtaking performance: 0-62mph takes just 5.8 seconds while the top speed is limited to 155mph. On the official combined fuel cycle the FX50S returns 21.7mpg. It is fully compliant with Euro 5 emissions regulations and produces 310g/km of CO2. To control this amount of power with maximum safety and driver involvement Infiniti called on everything it knows about handling – including the SUV-first of Rear Active Steer. This electronically controlled system enhances agility at low speeds and further improves the car’s awesome stability at the very high cornering forces of which the FX50S is capable. Like the FX37S, 21in wheels and CDC damping are standard – along with all other features from that model. But the FX50S gets in addition its own exclusive technology designed to make life on board easier and safer. Around View Monitor utilises cameras around the car to generate a 360 degree bird’s eye view so not even the tightest parking space holds any fear for the driver. Intelligent Cruise Control uses laser sensors to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front, at any speed from 0-112mph. And Intelligent Brake Assist could be a life-saver: when it detects that a collision with a car in front is imminent, it first warns the driver and then brakes the car automatically. All are standard fare on the FX50S; some rivals do not offer these features even as extra-cost options. The FX50S also comes with Connectiviti+, a fully featured information and entertainment system that combines class-leading ease of use – via touch screen, voice recognition, dashboard or steering wheel controls – with huge hard disk memory and a high resolution display with 3D graphics. Sound quality is ensured by a BOSE 11-speaker system acoustically matched to the FX’s cabin. FX OPTIONS So well-equipped is the FX50S that the only options relate to colour and trim. FX37 owners who want to add certain FX50S features can, however, do so. These include Connectiviti+ which at £1700 costs less than half what the same features would add to the price of certain German rivals. Intelligent Cruise Control (full speed range) and Intelligent Brake Assist, £850 Around View Monitor, £850 (only with Connectiviti+) Connectiviti+ navigation system, £1700 BOSE premium sound system with 11 speakers, £600 FX DELIVERIES The Infiniti FX can be reserved online now at www.infiniti.co.uk. Deliveries are due to begin in September when the UK’s inaugural Infiniti Centre, in Reading, opens its doors. When the first FX with a 59-suffix registration plate hits the roads in September, it will mark the culmination of a 20-year journey to bring Japan’s boldest new luxury marque to the UK. Infiniti already enjoys a large and enthusiastic following in other parts of Europe, the Middle East and the US. The FX sits at the top of Infiniti Europe’s five-model range which also includes the G37 Saloon, G37 Coupé, G37 Convertible and EX37 crossover, all of which are also due on sale in the UK this year at the same time. Infiniti Tokyo, Japan Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Infiniti FX Special Editions for the UK, car, suv, special edition, luxury, ARTICLE, crossover

Toyota Prius Arrives in the UK 2010

2009-06-11T04:39:00.000-07:00

NEW PRIUS BREAKS COVER

Toyota’s new hybrid is on the road and on show in the UK After months of anticipation, the all-new Prius arrived in the UK this week and is already on the road and on public display. The latest generation of Toyota’s world-conquering hybrid has wasted no time in demonstrating its environmental credentials by taking part in the Revolve Eco-Rally, a showcase for low emissions and fuel-efficient cars that travelled from Brighton to London’s City Hall on Monday. Supported by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership and What Car? Magazine’s Green Awards, the event was organised by Revolve, an independent group that encourages and promotes sustainable transport. New Prius is also taking centre stage at the Bull Ring in Birmingham as a key feature of the shopping centre’s Green Week activities. Under the banner “Energy”, Prius is on public view until this Sunday. It is joined on the Toyota stand by its iQ and Yaris stablemates, two prime examples of the low emissions/fuel efficient performance being achieved with Toyota Optimal Drive technology. Next week Prius will move on to the Trafford Centre in Manchester, where it will be on show from 15 to 28 June. It will complete its debut tour at Bluewater, in Kent, from 29 June to 12 July. Order books for new Prius are open now, with UK sales starting on 1 August. Keep up-to-date with the latest new Prius, news, views, images, videos and more on Today/Tomorrow, the official Toyota blog, at http://blog.toyota.co.uk/

Toyota Tokyo, Japan

Status: not an ad

Tags: 2010 Toyota Prius Arrives in the UK, car, sedan, hybrid, ARTICLE, fuel efficient

Defender Fire and Ice Editions 2009 Land Rover

2009-06-11T04:30:00.000-07:00

2009 Land Rover Defender Fire and Ice Editions

Land Rover Launches Exciting ‘Fire & Ice’ Defender Limited Editions Gaydon, Warwickshire, 09 June 2009 – Land Rover is introducing two exciting new limited edition models of the iconic Defender 4x4 – the Defender Fire and Defender Ice. Inspired by the world’s most challenging landscapes – where Defenders have earned their reputation for rugged dependability – the Fire & Ice models blend classic Land Rover functionality with a stunning new style. The limited editions feature striking two-tone colour schemes. Defender Fire combines a scorching metallic ‘Vesuvius’ orange with metallic ‘Santorini’ black roof, bonnet, centre grille and wheel arches. Defender Ice contrasts the cooler shade of ‘Alaska’ white with the same bold black panels. The exteriors are finished off with some eye-catching details including ‘diamond turned’ five spoke alloy wheels, black side runners, LED rear lamps with clear lenses, and a unique front light treatment. Inside the Fire & Ice models, the cabins feature superior materials and special interior treatments to complement the style and functionality of the exterior. The seats combine black leather borders with attractive grey Alcantara centre panels, and head restraints with an embossed Land Rover logo. Splashes of bold colour bring added life to the interior design. The centre switch panels use the same orange or white paint finish as the exterior, while contrast stitching on the steering wheel, seats, centre cubby box and carpet mats is coordinated to match. For that extra degree of personalisation, a range of tough optional accessories is available including an A-frame protection bar, a raised air intake, a ribbed aluminium undershield, aluminium wing top protectors and a chequer plate protection kit in black, a luggage rack or a roof sports bar system. The Fire & Ice limited editions are available with the 90 or 110 Station Wagon bodystyles. Prices start at [S$168,888]. Just [6] Defender Fire and Defender Ice models will be offered in [Singapore], with a total of 850 vehicles planned to be sold worldwide. Production is due to start in early summer 2009, with customer deliveries scheduled to begin later in the summer. Land Rover Gaydon, Warwickshire, England, United Kingdom Status: not an ad Tags: 2009 Land Rover Defender Fire and Ice Editions, off-road, suv, special edition, ARTICLE, EDITORS PICK

Tazzari Zero 2010

2009-06-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

2010 Tazzari Zero #1 - Sold at $25,000

What makes a ZERO different from the dozens of other electric vehicles which have gone before it? ZERO is not an imitation. ZERO is different. ZERO uses Lithium batteries, leaving behind old Lead or Nickel Cadmium technology. In technical terms it has been conceived as a sports car, a miniature sports car which offers four driving modes: RACE: for a track feel, RAIN: for when the road is wet, STANDARD: for daily use and ECONOMY: for increased driving time/ autonomy. ZERO is ecological. The chassis, produced in the Tazzari Group foundries, is 100% recyclable aluminium, while many internal and external parts are also made of aluminium, an extremely viable and high quality material. The seats are covered with eco-leather. The batteries, made specifically for ZERO, will be extremely long-lasting and reliable. ZERO is also a sports version of a city car reaching speeds of up to 55 mph with 0 - 30 mph acceleration in less than 5 seconds. The design derives from the field of motor sports: centrally positioned engine and low centre of gravity. When you drive ZERO, it feels as if you're behind the wheel of a sports car: rear-wheel drive, wide wheelbase, powerful brakes. Tazzari Bologna, Italy Status: not an ad Tags: 2010 Tazzari Zero #1 - Sold at $25,000, car, electric, micro car

Quick Details
Sold For: $25,000
# Bids: 1
Auction Date: 03 June 2009
Miles: 25
Transmission: auto
Exterior Color: green
Interior Color: black