Toyota in the red, won't meet U.S. production levels
Toyota is often seen as the automaker that can do no wrong, but the giant Japanese company has just released official sales and profit data for the year that's ending, and it's not all roses. Amazingly, 2008 will mark Toyota's first-ever annual operating loss since the brand's inception. Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe calls these times "an unprecedented emergency," and "a crisis unlike the crises of the past." This just one year after issuing the company's largest profit ever last year. Things have apparently gotten so bad that the automaker has - and we're not making this up - unplugged its electric hand dryers.
What does this mean for such popular picks as the hybrid Toyota Prius? We've already reported that the automaker will postpone the opening of its plant in Mississippi that was slated to assemble the Prius in the US, but Toyota's profit warnings affect much more than just that one plant. When it's all said and done, Toyota's goal is to assemble 60 percent of the cars for the US market right here in the States. That figure dropped down to 55.2 percent last month, and it's expected to drop further when the 2010 Prius gets up to full production capacity in Japan.
2009 BMW 750i and 750 Li Pricing Announced
Power for the 2009 BMW 750i and the 750 Li comes from a 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 making a total of 400-hp and a peak torque of 450 lb-ft. EPA has yet to reveal any certified fuel-economy ratings but don’t expect them to be anything that will bring in fuel-saving conscious buyers into BMW dealerships.
Both 2009 BMW
2010 BMW 6 Series Spy Shots
Finally we get to see some new prototypes being driven around. Moving away from all the Z4, PAS, 7 Series shots, today we have the next generation 2010 BMW 6 Series, codename F13. With the current car being already very successful, BMW will not drastically change the design.
What we know is that the front headlights will be similar to the ones on the CS Concept but will not have the circular cut out, just a straight across slit. Longer than today’s model, the 2010 6-Series will offer more legroom for rear passengers. At the same time, it will get a sportier cockpit with a more driver oriented console layout.
We also learned that the convertible will be offered with a folding hardtop, like the new 3-Series convertible.
The rumor going around is that there will be three engine options, 306, 408, and 507 horsepower and of course the new eight-speed automatic gearbox with paddle-shifters.
That’s all we really know for now, but hopefully we will hear more soon.
Australians get another all-electric car option with Energetique evMe
If you don't want to wait for a traditional automaker to put an electric car on the road, a conversion of an existing vehicle is one way to achieve gasoline freedom. Using the Mazda 2 as their chassis of choice, Energetique has done just that with their evMe. While it's not the first new-car conversion from Down Under, it is the best looking and it offers some good performance numbers as well. Powered by lithium polymer batteries, the evMe is said to have a range of 125 to 155 miles, depending on driving mode and conditions, and the Brusa AC motor and electronics can take it up to 80 mph. Its 0 to 60 mph time is a respectable 10 seconds.
Having sold off their first copy, the conversion team reportedly have more than 100 orders waiting to be filled. The asking price is $70,000 Australian dollars (that's "only" $47,476.78 U.S) and affords you the ability to pass by gas stations forever. Hit the jump for a bit of bonus video (soundtrack alert!) of the evMe making a few passes.
Hyundai Elantra Touring priced from $18,495
Sold as the i30 elsewhere in the world, the new Hyundai Elanta Touring five-door compact will arrive soon on our shores with a base price of $18,495, which includes a $695 delivery charge. That price will put a base model Elantra Touring in your garage with a five-speed manual transmission topped with a B&M shifter. Like all Hyundais, the list of standard equipment that comes with the Elantra Touring is long and includes items like air conditioning, remote keyless entry, steering wheel-mounted cruise control and audio controls, an eight-way adjustable driver's seat, a cooled glove box and 172-Watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with USB and auxiliary input jacks. It also comes with Electronic Stability Control as standard equipment, which is nice to see at this price point. In fact, the only option is a Premium-Sport package that adds a power sunroof, heated front seats and 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45VR17 tires. A maxxed out Elantra Touring with a four-speed automatic and the Premium-Sport package will go for $20,795, which is not a bad price to pay for a fun and practical five-door compact that can swallow 65.3 cubic feet of stuff with its rear seats folded and return 31 mpg on highway. Whether or not buyers in a bruised and battered economy will agree remains to be seen.
HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR FUEL-EFFICIENT ELANTRA TOURING
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., December 23, 2008 – Hyundai Motor America has announced prices for its Elantra Touring five-door compact, starting at $18,495 for a very well-equipped entry-level model and $19,995 for one featuring a Premium-Sport package. The all-new 2009 Elantra Touring is a sportier, more functional variant of Hyundai's popular Elantra sedan, and will be available at dealerships in the first quarter of 2009.
2009 Elantra Touring Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Pricing
Touring M/T
Standard Equipment
Five-Speed M/T with B&M Sport shifter
$18,495
Touring A/T
Standard Equipment
Four-Speed A/T
$19,295
Touring M/T
Premium-Sport
Five-Speed M/T with B&M Sport shifter
$19,995
Touring A/T
Premium-Sport
Four-Speed A/T
$20,795
Note: All prices in this release contain a freight charge of $695
"The all-new Elantra Touring is a fun-to-drive, functional five-door," said Mark Dipko, manager, small car product development, Hyundai Motor America. "Elantra Touring provides buyers a unique offering in the compact segment, raising the bar as Hyundai likes to do in value, safety and quality. It is remarkable how many features a customer can get for under $20,000 in such a versatile five-door."
The Elantra Touring is the first five-door compact to offer standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) in addition to a host of other class-leading safety technologies. As with all Hyundai vehicles, the Elantra Touring was designed and manufactured to meet the most stringent quality standards in the industry, exemplifying Hyundai's quality leadership position worldwide.
The Elantra Touring, with its modern, sleek styling and fun-to-drive qualities, was developed by Hyundai in response to the growing demand for stylish and functional five-door vehicles, sales of which doubled from 2001 to 2006. Five-door vehicle sales are projected to be strong into the next decade as well.
THE GOOD STUFF COMES STANDARD
Elantra Touring builds on Hyundai's reputation for offering loads of standard equipment, including air conditioning, power windows, heated mirrors, door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm, steering wheel-mounted cruise control and audio controls, eight-way adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, a cooled glove box and plenty of storage compartments. For audiophiles, an integrated 172-Watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers, USB input and auxiliary input jack are standard. The Premium-Sport package adds a power sunroof with tilt and slide functions, heated front seats and 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45VR17 tires.
STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES
Like every Hyundai, top-tier safety was a key development goal for the Elantra Touring, which is fully equipped to protect driver and passengers. Passive safety features include dual front, side and curtain airbags -- a total of six protective airbags in the vehicle. Other safety features include active front headrests, seatbelt pretensioners and seatbelt reminders. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 50 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The IIHS also notes that active front head restraints improve rear crash protection.
The Elantra Touring comes standard with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), one of the industry's most effective life-saving technologies. NHTSA studies show that passenger cars equipped with ESC experience 30 percent fewer fatalities in single-vehicle crashes than cars without ESC. Santa Fe, Veracruz, Tucson, Sonata, Azera, Elantra SE, Entourage and Genesis are all equipped with standard ESC. Elantra Touring has earned five-star frontal and four-star side crash ratings in the compact passenger car segment from NHTSA.
ROOMY AND REFINED INTERIOR
The long wheelbase and generous width of the Elantra Touring, combined with Hyundai's expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. Elantra Touring has the most interior volume (passenger volume plus cargo space) of any five-door in its class at 125.5 cubic feet. In fact, Elantra Touring's cargo capacity is 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, which is more cargo space than many larger wagons and crossovers.
The Elantra Touring is the first compact five-door to offer XM Satellite Radio® and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs as standard equipment. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, located in the center storage compartment, not only does it play music through the vehicle's six-speaker audio system, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than only the iPod itself. The center storage compartment location of the USB assures that iPods can be safely stowed out of sight.
The roomy and functional interior is also a quiet place to be. Based on internal tests, Elantra Touring has four decibels lower road noise levels than the Mazda3 five-door.
IMPRESSIVE PACKAGE EFFICIENCY
The Elantra Touring's exterior dimensions (176.2 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 59.8 inches high) make it a great fit in the compact five-door segment, while its long wheelbase (106.3 inches) offers class-leading interior volume. Elantra Touring features outstanding front legroom and both front and rear shoulder room. In addition, every Elantra Touring has 60/40 split folding rear seats that fold when needed for added storage, functionality and practicality.
The Elantra Touring matches best-in-class passenger volume with best-in-class cargo capacity. There is a useful 24.3 cubic feet of luggage space with rear seats upright and a cavernous 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. As in any Hyundai, the utility and convenience in the Elantra Touring has not been overlooked, with a stow-and-go removable luggage cover that stores conveniently out-of-site under the trunk area compartment. An optional restraining net is also offered.
The Elantra Touring includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglass holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, dash storage, central console storage, front storage tray, front seatback pockets and a cargo area under-floor storage. For tailgaters, the cargo area also has a power-retained, 12-volt outlet that does not require the vehicle to be turned on in order to work.
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Elantra Touring is powered by the same fuel-efficient, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder found in the Elantra sedan. This sophisticated, 16-valve powerplant employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for a power band, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Elantra Touring is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). With a manual transmission, the Elantra Touring's mileage is 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway according to the EPA. With the optional four-speed, automatic transmission, the Elantra Touring's EPA rating is 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
BMW announces pricing for 2009 7 Series, raises prices on everything else
The latest iteration of BMW's all-singing, all-dancing plutocrat limo will roll out the door starting at $81,125. That sum will get buyers the 2009 750i (including $825 for destination charges), but those who are looking for a bit more legroom in back will have to pay $85,025 for the 750Li. Production for these models began last month, but don't expect to see them on the forecourts of your local BMW Center until later this spring.
The rest of the BMW lineup is also getting a nudge on pricing, with the average MSRP climbing by 0.7 percent. All pricing increases are effective January 1, 2009; so if you're planning on gifting yourself a M5 or X6 for the holidays, make sure you do so before New Year's.
Lexus hints at HS 250h dedicated hybrid for Detroit show
Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe informed us at least year's Detroit Auto Show that his company would be bringing two new hybrids to this year's show in D-town. The first is the much anticipated next-gen Prius and the second is the first dedicated hybrid model for Lexus. This week the Japanese luxury automaker made it official with a page on its consumer website heralding the debut of the Lexus HS 250h on January 11, smack dab in the middle of press days for the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.
Not much else is known about the vehicle, other than that it will be available to buy in the Fall of 2009. We suspect the HS 250h will be a Lexus-badged version of the Prius in much the same way that the ES350 is a version of the Toyota Camry. Thus, the HS 250h will also use the same next-gen Hybrid Synergy drivetrain that will debut in the new Prius, both sporting nickel-metal hydride battery packs for the time being until development work on advanced lithium-ion packs is completed. Stay tuned for more info on these two hybrid models from Toyota and Lexus as the 2009 Detroit Auto Show draws ever closer. Thanks for the tip, DJ Pearce!
[Source: Lexus]
Honda announces partnership to develop lithium-ion batteries
CEO Takeo Fukui said today that Honda will team up with GS Yuasa Corp. to manufacture next-generation lithium-ion batteries for Honda’s future
Currently Honda’s Civic Hybrid and Toyota’s Prius use nickel-metal hydride batteries. Honda did not say which future vehicles will carry the new lithium-ion battery packs, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see them in the next-generation of the Honda Insight - the first generation will make its production debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month and will use nickel hydride batteries.
According to Automotive News, GS Yuasa currently makes lithium-ion batteries for Mitsubishi in a joint venture called Lithium Energy Japan. The batteries are much larger than the ones it will develop for Honda since those are used for a fully-electric cars. Honda’s batteries will be much smaller since they will work with Honda’s hybrid system.
Honda and GS Yuasa said they will spend ¥7.5 billion ($85.2 million) on the new company.
Peru to stop used cars imports in 2010
Poor countries usually don't have enough resources, and people who earn the median income often can't afford new cars. Instead, they rely on getting used imports. This is the case in Peru, where the government has just authorized importing used cars until 2010. However, this authorization has a serious drawback: while Peruvian citizens will continue to have cheap cars available, they'll miss out on many of the latest anti-pollution technologies. Therefore, the Minister of Ecologic Affairs, Antonio Brack, has stated that the practice of importing other country's hand-me downs should be phased out after 2010, because it floods the market with dirty vehicles (see also: the Emirates). Of course, he's missing an answer to the question of what cars would be affordable then, but bear in mind that most of the cars currently imported are totaled vehicles (from floods, accidents), purchased at knock off prices elsewhere and fixed.
Great photos of a BMW 135i Coupe
Once I received these photos in the email, I knew that I have to share them with you. The black BMW 135i Coupe along with a great Nikon camera make together a nice desktop wallpaper or even…a BMW ad.
If you have been a long time reader on our blog, you might remember that I was and still am a big fan of the new BMW 135i Coupe model, that was launched earlier this year.
The BMW 135i Coupe was one of the most anticipated bimmers in the past few years and the buzz before the launch reached impressive levels. As soon as the car came out, we took it for a test drive, ignoring the not so friendly Chicago weather.
Josh, our editor, decided to test the 135i Coupe in the beautiful sunny North Carolina and he put the car to some intensive testing.
The Black Sapphire Metallic is a great color on the 1 Series, but it comes with a hefty price: keeping it clean at all time. The car’s owner in these photos, SF_VR6 from e90post, seems to be doing a great job detailing the car and to spoil us even more, he snapped a shot of the Porsche Cayman S sitting next to the bimmer.
Thanks for the tip Michael!
G-POWER M5 HURRICANE achives a 228mph top speed
G-POWER has done it again. The M3 Hurricane can now be named the fastest sedan in the world, breaking a long-standing record of the Brabus Rocket. Back in March, we wrote about G-Power’s tuning program, named “Hurricane”, and also about their 730 horsepower M5.
At the time, the M5 ran the track with a top speed of 200 mph, but G-Power had bigger plans for their M5. In November 2008, G-POWER M5 Hurricane RS achieved a top speed of 228.4 mph (367,59 km/h). The previous 227.2 mph (365,7 km/h) hold by the Brabus, has been broken. The test took place on tracks in Papenburg.
While the Brabus has a V12, G-Power uses only a simple V10 from the shelves of BMW and modified this engine with other two superchargers from G-POWER’s technology partner ASA, with enlarged capacity.
According to G-POWER the BI-Kompressor system could be raised from 0,7 bar rel. to 0,8 bar rel., but the system has not reached its limit yet. Companies representatives confirmed that if needed, the system could be improved and the M5 Hurricane could be taken to a whole new level.
Which level that might be, time will tell. We’re almost positive that Brabus has something in-works to regain the lost status.
Subaru indefinitely delays diesel Impreza launch in UK
The Japanese yen is currently causing lots of problems for Japanese automakers. When the yen is weak, profits go up for Japanese companies that make most of their money by exporting vehicles to other countries. Conversely, when the yen is strong - as it is right now, having hit its highest valuation in 13 years - profits diminish. Subaru is just one of the automakers that's finding it tough to make a buck (or a yen) these days, and it has responded by indefinitely delaying the launch of its oil-burning engine option in the Impreza for the UK market. This news likely comes as a major blow to European dealers, considering that diesel engines handily outsell their gasoline siblings when they do manage to go head-to-head. Still, it's just as well that it'll be delayed as it would be priced out of the market if launched on schedule. Japanese officials have already called on the government to intervene by lowering the value of the yen, and if that happens, Europeans will finally get their diesel Subarus.
Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR Stirling Moss coming to Detroit
- • Only 75 units will be made with a price tag of 750,000 Euros.
- • 5.4L V8 Supercharged engine producing 650-hp.
- • 0 to 62 mph in 3.5 seconds; Top speed of 217 mph.
Things are starting to look better for the press and visitor of the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. After all the spyshots we’ve seen,
The car with no roof, side windows or windscreen, aka a speedster, is powered by a 5.4L V8 Supercharged engine making a total of 650-hp. 0 to 62 mph will come in 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 217 mph. The standard Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR makes 617-hp and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 206 mph.
Mercedes-Benz will produce only 75 units prices at 750,000 Euros each. Existing SLR customers will have top priority on ordering the car.
2009 Mercedes-Benz McLaren Stirling Moss:
2010 Chevrolet Equinox debuts before Detroit
- • Design inspired by the Chevy Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover.
- • 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 making 182-hp; 21/30 mpg.
- • 3.0L DOHC direct injected V6 producing 255-hp; 18/25 mpg.
Sunday is usually the most boring day of the week. However, with some government bailout money and General Motors ready to make significant changes to their lineup, Sunday’s can be fun again. Today GM has released the details and pictures of the new 2010 Chevrolet 
“At a time when customers are so concerned about the fuel efficiency of their vehicle, the Equinox delivers,” said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president,
The 2010 Chevrolet Equinox will go on sale in mid-2009 in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels with all-wheel-drive available as an option. As mentioned above, the 182-hp 2.4L Ecotec direct-injected engine with a maximum torque of 174 lb-ft will return an estimated fuel-economy of 21/30 mpg (city/highway). The 255-hp 3.0L direct-injected V6 producing a peak torque of 214 lb-ft, will return 18/25 mpg. Both engines offer a driving range of more than 500 miles.
The inside of the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox is heavily influenced by the new Chevrolet Cruze interior. The upgraded interior gets a new “floating” center console, a number of storage compartments, MultiFlex rear-seat capability allowing the seats to be moved fore and aft nearly 8 inches, 31.4 cubic feet cargo area and ice-blue ambient lighting to make it all look good.
Standard features on the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox will include: six standard air bags, four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control, OnStar and XM Satellite Radio and a fuel-saving electric power steering system that will save you approximately one tank of gas each year by saving 11 miles per tank of gas on 2.4L models.
Optional features include 7-inch touch-screen navigation system, Bluetooth, USB audio connectivity, DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system (with two independent screens to enable DVD viewing on one and gaming on the other), a hard drive to store all your songs, Power rear liftgate, rear-vision camera system, and a premium audio system with 8 speakers and 250 watts of output. You can also chose from a family of 17, 18 and 19-inch alloy wheels and the “Smart” remote starting system that also activates the HVAC system and optional heated seats depending on the outside temperature.
BMW to offer 7 Series with xDrive AWD in late 2009
Buyers in the upper echelon of the luxury segment are increasingly demanding all-wheel traction on their rides, and BMW has evidently grown tired of seeing would-be customers flocking to rival automakers like Audi and Mercedes-Benz to get what they want. So for the first time in the model line's history, the new BMW 7 Series will be offered with all-wheel drive.
Prius generates power in Massachusetts snowstorm
As anyone who watches the evening news would already know, the East Coast States have been hit hard with horrible winter weather over the last week or so. This snowy pounding has revealed a new use for the Toyota Prius, or likely any hybrid that recharges its batteries with its internal combustion engine. John Sweeney, a resident of Harvard, Massachusetts, lost power to his home for three whole days. That all sounds horrible, especially in such awful weather. Fortunately, Sweeney came up with a novel way to use his hybrid car by connecting a power inverter to his Prius' battery and using the hybrid as a generator. According to reports, Mr. Sweeney was able to run "his refrigerator, freezer, TV, woodstove fan and several lights through his Prius, for three days, on roughly five gallons of gas." We imagine that proponents for a future electrical grid that gets power from hybrid and electric cars during peak hours are quietly smiling to themselves. Thanks for the tip, Corey!
Lamborghini Gallardo Super Trofeo: Primeiros Testes
A Lamborghini testou oficialmente pela primeira vez o Gallardo Super Trofeo na pista de Vallelunga, perto de Roma, e segundo a marca italiana, o carro para o seu troféu monomarca, é o mais rápido de qualquer carro de troféu deste genero.
A corrida inaugural do Gallardo no Super Trofeo será a 2 de Maio de 2009 na pista americana de Silverstone.
O Gallardo Super Trofeo é baseado no Gallardo LP560-4 de série, contando com o V10 5.2l com injecção directa, modificado para produzir cerca de 570cv. A potência será "dominada" pela caixa e.gear de 6 velocidades robotizada com tracção ás quatro rodas permanente. Para complementar, a suspensão foi revista, vai contar com pneus Pirelli de competição, upgrade dos travões e asa posterior ajustável, e claro o interior com banco e volante de competição, interior "limpo", e som a combinar....
PRESS RELEASE:
Last week saw the Automobili Lamborghini development team and engineers from tyre partner Pirelli put the Gallardo Super Trofeo through its paces on the Vallelunga Race Track outside Rome. This marked the first tests under simulated race conditions, with Lamborghini test driver Giorgio Sanna behind the wheel. From the very outset, the lap times achieved were faster than any ever recorded with a single-brand trophy race car on this track.
The new Lamborghini Gallardo Super Trofeo delivered the first evidence of its outstanding performance in initial testing, with extremely good handling and excellent lap times. Preparations for the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo are running well within schedule. The first race of the world's fastest single-brand competition is set to be run on 2 May 2009 at Silverstone.
The focus of the calibration work was on the tyres and the race car set-up. "During the 40 minute race, the drivers are not permitted to change the tyres. Therefore, we have to pay particularly close attention to the durability of the slicks," explains Giorgio Sanna.
Exceptionally good handling
Particular attention was also paid to the individual calibration options for the new race car based on the various tracks and drivers. "The Super Trofeo should be easy for gentlemen drivers to control, yet challenging for professional drivers," says Sanna, who has already carried out rain tests on the race track in Nardo. "The permanent all-wheel drive and high aerodynamic downforce give the Gallardo Super Trofeo exceptionally good handling."
"We are well within our schedule, and will continue to push things forward," says Manfred Fitzgerald, who is Director of Brand and Design for Lamborghini and responsible for the Super Trofeo. "Ultimately, we want to provide our teams with a race car that is not only fast, but also perfectly reliable."
The world's fastest single-brand trophy
The Super Trofeo is the only one-make series in the motorsport world to feature cars with all-wheel drive. And it is Lamborghini's clear objective to ensure that it will be the fastest single-brand series in the world – partly due to the technical superiority of the all-wheel drive principle. Starting in May, the Super Trofeo will make guest appearances at six race events – at Silverstone (UK), on the Adria Raceway (Italy), on the Norisring (Germany), in Spa (Belgium), in Barcelona (Spain) and on Paul Ricard racetrack (France).
Lamborghini is building 30 cars for the Super Trofeo, which they are making available to individual enthusiasts, as well as to Lamborghini dealer teams. The factory will enter one car for itself, and plans to commission well-known guest drivers to take the wheel. And on the edge of the racing action, the Super Trofeo Village hospitality venue will be available.
A top-class race car
The Super Trofeo race car is based on the Gallardo LP 560-4, powered by the new 5.2 litre V10 with direct fuel injection (IDS), generating an increased output of 419 kW (570 hp). Its power flows through the e.gear six-speed robotized gear box to the permanent all-wheel drive with viscous traction – the kind of power transmission perfectly suited to motorsport.
The Super Trofeo is a top-class race car in every detail. Its chassis, featuring double wishbone suspension all round, has been reworked specifically for the purpose. The competition tyres are supplied by Pirelli and a specialist racing brake system provides brutal stopping power with racing ABS. Additional body components such as the large, adjustable rear wing are made from carbon-fibre composite. The cockpit incorporates an ultra-light race seat, a racing steering wheel and additional specialized racing instruments.
Nissan X-Trail Goes Diesel
It was recently reported that Asian car maker Nissan Motor Company would soon be launching the Nissan X-Trail’s diesel version. This vehicle would be unveiled in Japan and it would still be coming as a sport utility vehicle, except for the fact that it could now run using diesel. The event is set to happen on September this year.
According to the car maker, the Nissan X-Trail has been given a diesel engine because it has been found out that the recent developments with diesel engines have made vehicles bearing such to be more efficient with fuel. Also, they would have less CO2 emissions compared to those which run on gasoline. Nissan also did disclose that they have used new technologies with the diesel engine so that the exhaust gases would be cleaned and would be less harmful when emitted. The technologies does include the use of catalysts.
There have been no announcements though as per the price of the diesel-powered Nissan X-Trail.
Audi Q7 is 2008 IIHS Top Safety Pick
The Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Top Safety Pick award for 2008 to the Audi Q7, a luxury performance SUV. The luxury performance SUV came out on top as it received a ‘good’ rating in all three crash tests: side impact, offset frontal, and rear impact seat tests.
The Q7 isn’t the only Audi recognized this year for outstanding vehicle safety ratings. The Audi A3, A4 and A6 have also been recognized as Top Safety Picks for 2008, giving Audi the honor of having the most Top Safety Pick designations for any luxury automaker for 2008.
To achieve the Top Safety Pick honors, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute’s front, side and rear tests. The vehicle should also be equipped with electronic stability control. Audi offers this safety feature as standard on every model it rolls out.
“For Audi, safety and performance have always gone hand in hand: our cars are engineered to offer the best not just in crash protection, but in preventing traffic accidents altogether,” said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president, Audi of America. “With the launch of the Audi Q7 TDI clean diesel in 2009, American SUV buyers will have even more options from which to choose for safety as well as fuel economy, convenience and performance.”
Volvo bringing back free maintenance program
It's our pleasure to announce that the economic downturn is responsible for something you might actually want, other than cheap gas: Volvo is offering free maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles on all 2009 models. Volvo ran the program most recently until 2006. But with sales in the tank, Volvo dealers have been pleading with Volvo to bring it back in a bid to get more customers. Volvo higher ups finally agreed, and dealers think that this will help a potential customer choose Volvo over another make, especially a domestic, if she knows she won't be on the hook for creaks and leaks. BMW, Land Rover, MINI, and Saab also have free maintenance programs, and VW has started the program for its 2009 models. Now if only Volvo offered the S60 Concept with free maintenance...
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
The Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is GM's latest attempt to capture some of the mid-size family sedan market dominated by Toyota and Honda.
Unlike other competitive systems, this system is less complex, unable to run on electric power only. It uses the electric motor to provides extra power for accelerating and as a generator to charge the batteries when slowing down. GM refers to this system as a "Mild Hybrid."
The engine management computer automatically turns off the engine while the vehicle is stopped for better city mileage. In real world conditions the system works very well, offering reasonable fuel savings. And since it's not as complex, GM is able to offer the Malibu Hybrid at a reasonable price.
Subaru Impreza diesel delayed for the UK
In this installment of "As the Yen Skyrockets," Autocar is reporting that the introduction of the long-awaited Subaru Impreza diesel has been delayed indefinitely due to unfavorable exchange rates. A source inside International Motors, the firm that imports Subarus into the UK, told Autocar, "At the current rate we would have to charge vastly more than we can justify for the diesel Impreza if we were to make a profit. As a result we can't guarantee when the car will go on sale as we can't predict when the economy will change."
Both Toyota and Honda are facing the same problem, with Honda CEO Takeo Fukui going so far as to threaten moving Honda's headquarters outside of Japan. Analysts predict that the yen could begin to sink in the coming weeks, but if the market doesn't correct itself, the Japanese government might have to intervene and begin devaluing its currency.
Mitsubishi MiEV visits Monaco, readies Euro homologation
The little Principality of Monaco is keeping up its role in the media spotlight for their EV efforts. The small country will soon be the location of the first European tests of the all-electric Mitsubishi MiEV, still expected to go on sale in 2010. Of course, the Japanese vehicle will probably be put on sale in the UK before the Continent because it is right hand drive, but who's counting. As you can see in the pic, the MiEV was recently part of a promo photo with Prince Albert II of Monaco as part of the vehicle's Continental introduction (but, if you consider Iceland to be in Europe, then this wasn't the premiere). In case you've missed our previous coverage, the MiEV has a 120 mile range and can quick charge in under 30 minutes.
Ssangyong out of money; what does it mean for Phoenix?
Earlier this month, we found out that Phoenix Motorcars was still working on its all-electric SUT, but that its use of the Altairnano lithium titinate battery is currently in question. Even before that, Phoenix announced that it would be switching from its first motor supplier, UQM, to some other supplier. So, to recap, the SUT - if it's ever released to the public at all - will use different batteries and a different motor than originally stated. Now, news comes from Ssangyong, original suppliers of the chassis and bodywork for the Phoenix SUT, that it is in such poor financial shape that it cannot afford to make payments to its workers. All manufacturing has apparently been stopped. New guts: check. New bones: check?
Besides the obvious issue this raises with all of Ssangyong's future hybrids, we wonder what it means for the future of Phoenix Motorcars. We know that Phoenix just recently announced plans to deliver EVs to Hawaii for testing, but we're seriously beginning to wonder if all of these setbacks and changes will be enough to keep the SUT from ever seeing the light of day.
700hp Lightning GT EV on track for 2010 launch
Following its debut at the London Motor Show earlier this year, Britain's answer to the Tesla Roadster, the Lightning GT electric sports car, is expected to move to the next stage of development in 2009. The team behind the Lightning GT has announced that they will be producing two prototypes by the second quarter of 2009, with a view to start the first customer deliveries in early 2010.
Information at this point is scarce, and currently the car's exact specifications have not yet been finalized. Meanwhile, the company behind the project is still seeking capital from investors and an exact location for production is also still uncertain, which all means that the promised delivery date may need to be pushed back.
Some of the details we know about include a 700hp (522kW) electric powertrain featuring nano-titanate battery technology, which is enough to propel the car from 0-60mph in a flat four seconds and take it a top speed of about 130mph.
The electric drive system, dubbed Hi-Pa Drive, packs four permanent magnet brushless motors with one in each wheel. The system also allows for full traction control and regenerative braking on all four wheels independently. Due to power being developed separately in each wheel, there are no gearboxes, differentials, axles, drive shafts or propshafts in the Lightning sports car.
One of the key benefits of electric vehicles is that they have maximum available power at the wheels at any speed, unlike a petrol engine where maximum power is only obtained high up in the rev range. Officials claim charging the batteries for just ten minutes will provide up to 250 miles of driving, and at current prices driving one mile will cost just 2.5 cents.
To save weight, the car’s body is made from carbon fibre and Kevlar, and even with the full array of batteries on board the GT has a near ideal weight distribution of 48/52 front to rear. The car is also available with luxury items such as air-conditioning, satnav, and full leather trim.
Despite downturn, Toyota re-commits to F1
Toyota has reiterated its commitment to F1, in spite of its first annual operating loss since 1938. Said Toyota CEO Katsuake Watanabe of Toyota's F1 budget, still the largest in F1 at $445 million, "To keep it up at the current level is extremely difficult." Yet even with the loss, the global economic mess, the belt-tightening on the corporate side, and the fact that Toyota hasn't won a race in seven years, a Toyota spokesperson said, "We don't have anything to add to the statement we made on 5 December [committing to F1 after Honda's pullout -- Ed.] because the financial results don't change anything for us in the formula one team. Our situation has not changed." The FIA has suggested that next year's cost cutting measures will save teams 33% over their 2008 budgets. On top of that, Toyota is conducting its own cost cutting study to see what it can do over and above that. We have a feeling 2009 won't see Toyota on top of the big spenders list again.
New Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S with 433HP to Debut in Detroit
At the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January, Maserati will take the wraps off the sportiest Quattroporte yet. Based on the Quattroporte S, the new Sport GT S gains a more powerful version of Maserati's 4.7-litre V8 engine with a remapped ECU that delivers an output of 433HP. Maserati also updated the gearshift management software while the front and rear suspension system gets new single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height. Other mechanical changes concern the new sport exhaust system which is controlled by pneumatic valves for a deeper and more throaty sound bite.Cosmetic changes over the standard Quattroporte S include a new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, a metallic titanium finish for the headlights, body-coloured door handles, black finishing around the doors and black twin oval exhaust pipes. Inside the sportiest Quattroporte boasts new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara and leather upholstery as well as titanium colored composite material for the trim.
SAE to launch program to create standard plug for EVs
There are a number of hurdles to overcome before we're all parking electric cars in our driveways and garages. We often tend to focus in on the vehicle itself, as there is plenty of work to be done on that front, not the least of which is creating suitable batteries. Remember, though, that an entire infrastructure already exists for gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles that will need to be replaced if we're all driving with electrons. Early EV adopters may get specialized systems installed in their homes to charge their new electric toys, but not every manufacturer will be offering the same thing. So, standards will need to be created so that any EV will work with any EV charger.
Aren't we forgetting something, though? What goes between the charger and the chargee? That's right, a cable with plugs on each end. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) is expected to release a new set of standards that plug-makers will need to adhere to so that their prospective units are, as Popular Mechanics points out, sleek, safe and smart.
2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid: New Set of Teaser Photos
Another week, another set of teaser pictures of Toyota's worst kept secret, the 2010 Prius Hybrid. This time, the Japanese automaker has released shots of the new compact hybrid's engine compartment, headlight, the Lexus Hybrid inspired illuminated Toyota logo and what appears to be a door handle. The third generation Prius will make its physical debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit next month. From what we know up until now, the new car is going to be bigger than the outgoing model and it will feature a more powerful yet more fuel efficient and tightly packaged hybrid drivetrain system. Hit the jump for the full image gallery.
2009 Nissan GT-R Introduced with More Power, Better Handling and New Colors
Only a year after the GT-R's market launch in Japan and less than six months after its U.S. introduction and Nissan has proceeded to the sportscar's first major round of changes which include a power increase, suspension upgrades and a new exterior color. The most significant improvement concerns the GT-R's hand-built 3.8-litre V6 twin-turbo engine which has gained 5PS thanks to some fine tuning of its electronics, taking power output to 485PS, while torque remains unchanged at 588Nm.
The engine upgrades have also led to slightly better fuel economy figures with Nissan announcing an average fuel consumption in the Japanese driving cycle of 8.3 km/l (19.5 mpg U.S.) instead of 8.2 km/l (19.3 mpg US). In addition, Nissan has increased the GT-R's fuel tank capacity from 71 liters to to 74 liters.
Another update sees the improvement of the sportscar's ride performance with modifications to the suspension spring rate settings while the 2009 model will also benefit from a set of Dunlop SP Sport 600 DSST tires. Nissan claims that the tire was developed specifically for the GT-R and it "combines grip and durability, as demonstrated during its 'time-attack' lap of the Nurburgring", which yielded a time of 7 minutes 29 seconds.
Less significant improvements for the 2009 GT-R concern the introduction of the Gun Metal grey colored Rays seven-spoke alloy wheel design for the standard and Premium Edition GT-Rs, while the Black Edition will be fitted with the same design but, appropriately, in black. Additionally, customers can now choose a new deep white pearl color called 'Storm' which replaces the original pearl white which had a slightly darker shade.
Last but not least Nissan has also hiked the prices for its subtly updated GT-R. In the U.K. for example, customers ordering now will have to pay £56,795 on the road for the basic version with an increase of £1300 for the Premium Edition (£58,095) and another £1300 for the Black Edition (£59,395). This represents an increase of 3.8 percent.
In Europe, the first GT-Rs are scheduled to hit dealerships in April 2009. To date, Nissan has taken in excess of 2500 customer orders in Europe with 1200 coming from the UK. Any new customer orders should expect delivery in mid 2010.
Rolls-Royce Phantom mobile phone store in India
It's called ingenuity, and it's given us such things as the cell phone and the Rolls-Royce Phantom. So why not combine the two to create a cell phone store in the back of a Rolls-Royce Phantom? That's evidently what some well-heeled entrepreneurs in India did, purchasing a Phantom instead of a brick-and-mortar storefront, painting it up, and traveling the hillsides hawking mobile phones. It got caught in this regrettable pose - with rocks bracing its tires, because after getting a flat tire, the provincial tire shop had no idea how to fix it. But back to the ingenuity, mad props to the folks who came up with this: more attention-getting than Aishyarwa Rai, more convenient than Domino's Pizza, and more comfortable than... a real store. The world is an amazing place, no?
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Ford Fusion Hybrid officially rated at 41 mpg on the highway
Wanna go 41 mpg in a mid-size Ford sedan? You can, starting in the spring of 2009 (and if you stay in the city). Ford announced today that official EPA certification on the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid finished this week with a 41 mpg city/36 highway result. That's lower than the real-world 43.1 miles per gallon we managed to squeeze from the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and battery pack in LA not too long ago, but still good enough to beat the official numbers of the Camry Hybrid. The Fusion can also go up to 47 mph on battery power alone, something that no other hybrid in American can do (some pure electric vehicles, of course, can do this easily). The number I'm most impressed by, though, is that Ford is saying that, "A new regenerative brake system allows for approximately 94 percent energy recovery in city driving." 94 percent? Really?
More details on Volkswagen’s next-generation Passat
Volkswagen's next-generation Passat is expected to up the stakes against Germany’s luxury carmakers, with the car’s developers hoping it will be mentioned in the same breath as the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes Benz C-Class and Audi A4.
Under the hood, a replacement for the VR6 engine will be in place, putting out close to 300hp (224kW) from a displacement of 3.0L. To improve mileage and maintain power, the new engine will also be using direct injection, and most of the next Passat’s model range is expected to use some form of forced induction as well. One of the variants will also be a hybrid model, and there is expected to be a 300hp (224kW) diesel variant with AWD and an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
To give the Passat some much needed panache, VW will be pulling out all the stops to make the next-generation a technological showcase, with features that should have the traditional German manufacturers looking a little worried.
Expected to debut in late 2011 as a 2012 model, the next-generation Passat will feature a host of new technologies, including airless tires, a wiperless window cleaning system and paramagnetic paint that can change color at the owner's will. There will also be an Electronic Stability system with a feature that automatically offers counter-steering assistance in adverse driving conditions.
In 2012 VW will launch the wagon model and this could also be the year that a new high-performance R36 model joins the lineup.
2010 Chevrolet Equinox Revealed Ahead of Detroit Show
Having solved some of its problems for the next few months thanks to the emergency loan it received from the Bush Administration, GM is moving ahead with its scheduled debuts that include the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. Due to be unveiled to the public for the first time at the Detroit auto show in mid-January, Chevy's second generation Equinox rides on the same 112.5-inch wheelbase (2,857 mm) as the current model, but is about one inch (25 mm) shorter in length and an inch wider.
As you can see from the pictures, the new Equinox draws its exterior design inspiration from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover. Inside, the compact crossover features a large number of storage bins, such as an oversized glove box, a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack; and closed storage under the center armrest which is big enough to fit a laptop computer.
Like the current model, the 2010 Equinox features a MultiFlex rear seat capability, which allows the seat to be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (203 mm). With the 60/40-split-back rear seat moved all the way forward, the cargo area offers 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters) of storage.
When the 2010 Equinox goes on sale in mid-2009, it will be available in LS, LT and LTZ trim, with front-wheel or all-wheel-drive options. Two new engines are offered, a 2.4L direct injection 4-cylinder engine delivering 182 HP and an estimated 30 mpg highway / 21 mpg city and a 3.0L direct injected V6 engine with 255 HP which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway / 18 mpg city. Chevrolet expects that nearly two-thirds of customers will choose the more fuel efficient 2.4L engine.
"At a time when customers are so concerned about the fuel efficiency of their vehicle, the Equinox delivers," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. "It offers the roominess and capability of a crossover with great fuel economy. Equinox will provide customers a vehicle filled with refinement, comfort and great value."
New Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S with 433HP to Debut in Detroit
At the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January, Maserati will take the wraps off the sportiest Quattroporte yet. Based on the Quattroporte S, the new Sport GT S gains a more powerful version of Maserati's 4.7-litre V8 engine with a remapped ECU that delivers an output of 433HP. Maserati also updated the gearshift management software while the front and rear suspension system gets new single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height. Other mechanical changes concern the new sport exhaust system which is controlled by pneumatic valves for a deeper and more throaty sound bite.
Cosmetic changes over the standard Quattroporte S include a new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, a metallic titanium finish for the headlights, body-coloured door handles, black finishing around the doors and black twin oval exhaust pipes. Inside the sportiest Quattroporte boasts new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara and leather upholstery as well as titanium colored composite material for the trim.
Spy shots: 2009 Range Rover Sport facelift
Prototypes for Land Rover’s facelifted Range Rover Sport have been spotted testing at the Nurburgring less than two months after the test cars were last seen in the UK. The performance SUV already received a series of upgrades last year, including the introduction of a 3.6L twin turbo diesel V8, so for its next update the list of changes have been kept to a minimum, although there's the chance of the addition of a new high output supercharged V8 engine.
The facelifted SUV is due to hit the streets at the end of this year and is likely to be available with both the 3.6L diesel as well as a new supercharged 5.0L V8 engine developing upwards of 500hp (373kW) and 480lb-ft. (650Nm) of torque Another possibility is the introduction of a V6 twin-turbo diesel, likely to be the 2.7L unit used by Jaguar. However, in the Range Rover Sport, displacement would likely be bumped up to around the 3.0L mark.
In addition to the engine upgrade, the new Sport also receives a slightly revised face including a new grille design that’s reminiscent of the Land Rover Freelander/LR2 as well as a new front bumper. The side vents also feature a slightly different design to the ports on the current model, as well as the headlight treatment.
2010 Chevrolet Equinox Revealed Ahead of Detroit Show
Having solved some of its problems for the next few months thanks to the emergency loan it received from the Bush Administration, GM is moving ahead with its scheduled debuts that include the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. Due to be unveiled to the public for the first time at the Detroit auto show in mid-January, Chevy's second generation Equinox rides on the same 112.5-inch wheelbase (2,857 mm) as the current model, but is about one inch (25 mm) shorter in length and an inch wider.
As you can see from the pictures, the new Equinox draws its exterior design inspiration from the Chevrolet Malibu sedan and Traverse crossover. Inside, the compact crossover features a large number of storage bins, such as an oversized glove box, a closed storage bin in the instrument panel above the center stack; and closed storage under the center armrest which is big enough to fit a laptop computer. Like the current model, the 2010 Equinox features a MultiFlex rear seat capability, which allows the seat to be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (203 mm). With the 60/40-split-back rear seat moved all the way forward, the cargo area offers 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters) of storage.
When the 2010 Equinox goes on sale in mid-2009, it will be available in LS, LT and LTZ trim, with front-wheel or all-wheel-drive options. Two new engines are offered, a 2.4L direct injection 4-cylinder engine delivering 182 HP and an estimated 30 mpg highway / 21 mpg city and a 3.0L direct injected V6 engine with 255 HP which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway / 18 mpg city. Chevrolet expects that nearly two-thirds of customers will choose the more fuel efficient 2.4L engine.
"At a time when customers are so concerned about the fuel efficiency of their vehicle, the Equinox delivers," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. "It offers the roominess and capability of a crossover with great fuel economy. Equinox will provide customers a vehicle filled with refinement, comfort and great value."
Indiana police department abandons E85 test for cost reasons
In spite of all the promotion from General Motors of E85 as an alternative fuel, the reality for most people has been that is simply doesn't make sense from an economic perspective. As the West Lafayette, Indiana police department found out last summer, the numbers didn't add up. There is of course the issue of fuel consumption. Due to its lower energy content, a normally aspirated flex-fuel engine gets about 10-20 percent worse fuel efficiency on E85 than on gasoline. Much of this differential can actually be made up with an engine optimized for E85, particularly if it's turbocharged, but most current engines don't fall into this category.
The West Lafayette Police also had to go to the one station in the area that offered up E85, meaning they wasted time and fuel driving out of their way to get ethanol. Even with the $1 per gallon difference between E85 and gas, there just weren't any savings to be had. Now that gasoline is substantially cheaper than it was last summer, the problem is even worse. Until we have flex-fuel vehicles optimized for ethanol and greater biofuel availability, it simply won't make a lot of sense. Then there is the whole issue of well-to-wheel emissions, but that's another story.
New Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S with 433HP to Debut in Detroit
At the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January, Maserati will take the wraps off the sportiest Quattroporte yet. Based on the Quattroporte S, the new Sport GT S gains a more powerful version of Maserati's 4.7-litre V8 engine with a remapped ECU that delivers an output of 433HP. Maserati also updated the gearshift management software while the front and rear suspension system gets new single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height. Other mechanical changes concern the new sport exhaust system which is controlled by pneumatic valves for a deeper and more throaty sound bite.
Cosmetic changes over the standard Quattroporte S include a new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, a metallic titanium finish for the headlights, body-coloured door handles, black finishing around the doors and black twin oval exhaust pipes. Inside the sportiest Quattroporte boasts new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara and leather upholstery as well as titanium colored composite material for the trim.
Official details for production Ford Focus RS
Ford’s upcoming Focus RS sports hatch was first revealed in concept form at the London Motor Show back in July, and then again at the Paris Motor Show, but development work is coming to an end and sales are expected to start early next year. Some new details about the car have now come to light with the release of several official images of the final production verison of the car.
While most of the specs have already been confirmed by Ford, some of the new details include a 0-100km/h (62mph) time of 5.9 seconds and a top speed of 264km/h (164mph). Pricing in Europe will reportedly be set at €39,000. Based on the same core as the Focus ST, the RS adds power, handling and appearance modifications to improve the car’s ability to put its power to the ground and direct it down the road, track or gravel path. To keep the potent engine from creating unmanageable torque steer, the engineers designed the car with a unique suspension called the ‘RevoKnuckle,’ which enables the car to keep the intended direction of travel even under heavy throttle.
This works in conjunction with a Quaife automatic torque biasing limited-slip differential. Combined, the Focus RS obviates the need for AWD and the attendant weight gains of the extra differential and driveshafts. A Quaife automatic torque-biasing limited-slip differential keeps the traction steady even on less-than-ideal surfaces.
Changes to the standard Duratec 2.5L block include unique camshafts, a revised cylinder head and gasket and revised intake and manifold system. As well as the extra power, the Focus RS also receives a 40mm wider track, 19in wheels, 235mm tires, upgraded springs, dampers and anti-roll bars.
Ford has also confirmed that customers will have three colour options from launch, including the vibrant green seen here, as well as blue and white. Customers will also be able to match the interior trim with the exterior color or pick a full black leather option. Other features of the cabin include Recaro bucket seats, brushed aluminium accents and standard micro-fiber trim. The performance driving environment is completed by three additional gauges from the Focus ST, including a boost gauge, sitting atop the center console and angled toward the driver.
When it’s launched next year, the new Focus RS will mark the return of the storied Ford ‘RS’ badge, last seen on the first-generation Focus RS in 2002 and with a heritage stretching back 38 years including Fiesta, Escort and Sierra models.
Toyota will debut Tundra Work Truck Package in San Diego
One glaring omission in the range of Tundra trim levels is a stripper model suitable for duty as a basic work truck. Toyota will change all that at this year's San Diego Auto Show (Dec. 31, 2008 to Jan. 4, 2009) when the 2010 Toyota Tundra Work Truck Package debuts. Like any good work truck, a Tundra with the Work Truck Package is decontented enough to guarantee that your employees don't enjoy the drive too much. All the chrome on the Tundra's exterior has been replaced with black plastic, including the front and rear bumpers and grille, the latter of which has been slightly revised with a two-bar design. The side view mirrors are only manually adjustable, the bench seat is upholstered in washable vinyl, the floor is rubber and the dash is all black plastic. Cruise control and remote keyless entry are also gone as standard features. Available on Regular and Access Cab models in standard and long bed configurations with your choice of a V6 or V8 engine, the Work Truck Package will lower the price of your Tundra by as little as $550 and as much as $665. While not exactly the most exhilarating debut this auto show season, Toyota no doubt sees the benefit of broadening the Tundra's appeal to businesses that get their hands dirty.
BMW to Ferrari re: KERS: Sorry 'bout your lack of competitiveness
It must take guts to call out Ferrari, considering that the Italian marque has been a dominant force in both road-going supercars and in race-ready hardware. In fact, Ferrari managed to take home the coveted Constructors' Championship last year, ably defeating BMW, which finished in third position for the year. Regardless, BMW has some harsh words for Ferrari regarding the 2009 season and the use of the KERS energy-recovery hybrid drivetrain.
Recall that Ferrari has voiced some concerns over the system, suggesting that they are also testing cars for the '09 system without the KERS system installed - just in case. BMW, though, has called out its Italian competitor, with BMW motor sport director Mario Theissen saying "that argument not only speaks of a lack of competitiveness but also a reluctance to play a role in the bigger picture." Ouch, that hurts.
FIA president Max Mosley is also on BMW's side, arguing, "Could you imagine the great F1 engineers like Chapman or Duckworth saying 'I can't do that because it is too complicated'?" No, we can't, Max. And so we expect KERS to move forward as scheduled for the 2009 F1 season. Let the saga continue on the race track.
2010 Prius Pictures: Toyota Confirms they're Official, Says Debut Set for Detroit
Just as we we're getting ready to contact Toyota to ask them about the 2010 Prius photos that were leaked into the web late last night, we stumbled upon an announcement on the company's blog confirming their authenticity. While the editor of the Toyota Open Road blog, John F. Thompson did not give out any specific details, he did state that the new Prius will retain all the qualities of the current generation model adding that it will be roomier and more fuel efficient. Thompson also revealed what we've known unofficially for a while now, and that is that the forth generation Prius Hybrid will make its world debut at the Detroit Show in January 2009. Follow the jump to read the official statement from Toyota. -Continued "We thought we'd take a moment to confirm that the car shown in these unauthorized photos – at least the ones we've seen so far - is indeed the new Prius. Sorry, we're not able to provide details. Those will be forthcoming when the car is formally introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. What we can tell you, however, is this: This new Prius will retain all of the virtues of the model that precedes it. It's about the same size as its forebear, but with more interior room and better fuel economy. But you expected nothing less, right? Tune in January 11-13 for more information." Link: Open Road
John F. Thompson, Editor Toyota Open Road Blog: 
Morgan unveils pedal-powered three-wheeler
British sports carmakers Morgan Motors has unveiled its most environmentally friendly model to date - a pedal-powered car for 6 to 13 year olds that shuns petrol or hydrogen for simple human propulsion.
Known as the Morgan SuperSports Junior, the new pedal car will be built alongside the normal range of cars at Morgan's factory. The car is inspired by the original Morgan 3-wheelers that were built in 1909 by HFS Morgan. The pedal car is a 2/3 reproduction of Morgan's first iconic 3-wheeler and is being constructed as a part of the company’s centenary celebrations. True to Morgan's traditional values, the SuperSports Junior promises to use high quality materials, and its designers claim that the car will stay true to Morgan's core philosophy of high power-to-weight ratio.
To facilitate this claim, Morgan says that the 3-speed crank pedal car is similar to a recumbent bicycle, and should offer exciting performance with low effort. To keep weight down, the car is crafted from lightweight aluminum, but still features an imitation cast V-twin engine, a tubular chassis and hand formed louvres. The SuperSport Junior also features working lights and hand stitched adjustable seating, for the more discerning of the younger generation out there.
Limited to a production run of just 500 units, Morgan is taking non-refundable £500 ($736) deposits on their website now, and the project will only go ahead once the company receives 200 deposits. The final price will be £2,510 ($3,690) excluding VAT and delivery charges, and color choice plus leather upholstery will cost an additional £250 ($368).
Toyota to Debut Battery Electric Vehicle Concept at 2009 Detroit Show
A Spartan press release accompanied by a teaser photo is all that Toyotas has revealed about its new battery-powered electric vehicle FT-EV concept car that will make its world premiere at the forthcoming Detroit auto show in mid-January. If ever there was a one-button press release, this is it: "Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. will display a battery electric vehicle concept at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. This display marks the world debut of this concept vehicle." Well, there you go. Guess we'll have to be patient for a few weeks until Toyota fills us in on the details. We remind you that Toyota's Detroit Show stand will also host the debut of the all-new Prius Hybrid.
BMW unveils Z4 ahead of 2009 Detroit Auto Show
BMW’s next-generation Z4 Roadster is due for its first public outing at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, but the new spy shots have revealed the car about a month ahead of the show. As hinted at by the spy photos and confirmed with the newly leaked images, the car features fewer Bangle-born styling cues and a smoother, more rounded appearance than the outgoing version.
Contrary to numerous reports the new model is expected to grow in both size and price. The new Z4 is tipped to receive a folding metal hardtop to bring it into line with the Mercedes Benz SLK and Mazda MX5 (Miata). For BMW, the benefits of the folding hardtop (security and reliability) outweighed the disadvantages of increased weight and less trunk space. However, there is also the possibility that both a hard-top and a traditional soft-top could also be offered.
Throughout the car's development, styling was expected to feature cues derived from the CS concept including a wider and more pronounced grille and larger intakes up front. Though the final product doesn't seem nearly as extreme as the CS Concept, there is a hint of the controversial design in the new Z4.
A long hood and a short rear decklid remain but the previous car’s circular taillights have been swapped with units that appear similar to those on the larger 6-series with including rows of LED detailing.
The engine lineup should include both twin-turbo and naturally-aspirated straight six engines, although there could be an entry-level model in Europe with a four-cylinder mill, though that won't be due until sometime around 2011. The naturally-aspirated six-cylinder is expected to be rated at about 272hp (203kW), an upgrade of 17hp (12kW) over the current sport model, while the flagship M Roadster - if it is built - is likely to get a brand new high-performance turbo six worth around 350hp (261kW).
This is to ensure the M-spec Z4 doesn’t step on the toes of the M3. The Z4 range is also expected to pick up BMW’s new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission as an option. A 6-speed manual will be standard.
With more equipment and a bigger powerplant, pricing is expected to rise to about €43,000 ($55,000) in Europe. The Z4 currently starts at around $36,700 in the U.S., but that can be expected to climb past $40,000 for the next model.
PSA: How to safely abandon your car in a snowstorm
Mother Nature has hit the deep freeze button again, and that means getting stuck in a snowstorm is not such a wild improbability for some of us. If you can't stay off the roads and happen to find yourself immobile once you get on them, PEMCO Insurance has a brief guide for what do if you absolutely must abandon your car. Perhaps the most important advice is to always carry some emergency winter clothes and supplies with you, like flares and blankets, which could come in handy even if you don't get permanently stuck. You'll especially want to make the car as visible as possible so that others can avoid hitting it. You can read the full guide after the jump, and be careful out there this holiday season.
Could a gasoline engine outperform diesels? MUSIC might be the answer
Back in college, a teacher in a physics class explained to me and my classmates the models that rule diesel and gasoline engines. This stirred a classic debate: what's better: diesel or gasoline? The concept that explained the better efficiency of diesel engines was "thermal efficiency." This is also the concept that a prototype originally developed at Coventry University uses to claim that a 2.0-liter MUSIC (Merritt Unthrottled Spark Ignition Combustion) gasoline engine achieved more efficiency than a 2.4 liter diesel engine. For those unfamiliar with MUSIC engines, they are un-throttled, with high thermal efficiency, lean-burn, and work with a spark ignition system that uses an indirect combustion chamber to produce charge stratification by means of controlled air management. The tested engine was simply a new cylinder head mounted over a standard Duratec engine.
According to MUSIC performance data, brake thermal efficiency was about 20 percent higher than a diesel engine. However, the comparison used data not from a real engine but from a "reputable" engine R&D company, according to MUSI Engines Ltd. So, there is no information about parasitic loads, the specific diesel technology (what about comparing an old indirect injection diesel with modern common-rail units?) or test conditions were provided. Nevertheless, taken with a pinch of salt, let's hope this leads to a promising solution.
Subaru getting into bicycle business
Subaru has decided to issue a 99-edition run of mountain bikes under its own corporate banner called the Subaru XB steel hardtail. If there's any automaker for which such a move fits, it is Subaru (has anyone even seen a Porsche or Mercedes mountain bike in the wild?). And it's not the first time a Japanese car concern has jumped into the bicycle biz: Bridgestone had a seriously good range of road and mountain bikes in the '80s and '90s. However, Subaru's effort will be outsourced, built-to-order, and expensive. The hardtail chromoly steel steeds will run you $3,880. For that price – even for a limited edition with decent kit – we aren't sure why anyone would opt for it over a fully-suspended Ellsworth or Ventana for the same money.
Aptera switches to front-wheel drive, delivery date still unknown
Yep, just after posting a story that Aptera seems extremely unlikely to get its first production model shipped before the end of 2009 comes news that essentially seals this fate. Aptera is now saying that all production models will be front-wheel drive, a major change to say the least. Previously, Aptera's preproduction models used a belt-driven rear wheel, leaving the two hoops up front alone to steer the vehicle. No longer, as Aptera offers the following reasons for the switch:
1. Better weight distribution, which, in turn, maximizes stability
2. Improved traction during acceleration and in inclement weather wet conditions
3. More efficiency at higher speeds
4. Increased durability during the life of the vehicle
5. Improved noise insulation
6. Increased rear cargo space (without sacrificing front legroom)
We're not going to spend any time arguing with any of those 6 points, but we're also fully aware that this change will further postpone sales of the 2e well into the future. For what it's worth, an Aptera Forum member named Steve (any guesses as to who that may be?) claims that the decision to switch to FWD was made all the way back in January.
Lamborghini Miura No. 1 found, set for Cali restoration
The chassis for Lamborghini Miura #1 is such a work of art, it'd be a shame to cover it up with that swoopy, classic bodywork. The Dallara-designed masterpiece first met the world in 1965 at the Turin Auto Salon and was apparently stored after that until Marios Kritkos fell in love with it in 1977. Kritkos, who handled the importation of Lamborghini cars for Cyprus, went to Sant'Agata in 1978 and dragged the chassis back to Cyprus. The chassis has recently been "discovered," not that it was ever really lost, and Los-Angeles based Joe Sackey (author of The Lamborghini Miura Bible) and Gary Bobileff (whose website has a sweet Ferrari-themed interface) now have Miura #1 at Gary's shop, where it will get a restoration to an astounding standard. Give us a pair of Snidely Whiplash goggles, and we'd drive that thing every day.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Suzuki Prices the Equator Pickup Truck from $17,985
Suzuki has released pricing information for its Nissan Frontier-based, Equator mid-size pickup truck which will be available in the States in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles with rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive options. Prices start from $17,995 for the Equator Extended Cab and for those of you wondering, the base-price for the Nissan Frontier is $17,460. The most expensive version of the Equator is the Crew Cab RMZ-4 which carries a starting MSRP of $29,325 and offers an optional moto-style bed extender.
The new mid-size pickup truck from Suzuki is offered with two engines, a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque and an available 4.0-liter, V6 engine producing 261HP with 281 lb.-ft. of torque. The Equator comes equipped with either a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission or five-speed manual gearbox which is available only on four-cylinder models.
The Pace of Life
If you’ve got to get moving, whether with passengers or cargo, we’ve got you covered.
Equinox: Generous room, smart styling, available all-wheel-drive and confident performance continue to make Chevy Equinox one of the standouts of the compact SUV segment.
The Equinox Sport features a lowered suspension, bold 18-in. wheels, a powerful, 264-hp DOHC engine, backed up by a six-speed automatic with manual tap up/tap down control. Equinox Sport also features hydraulic power steering, a tuned exhaust and unique exterior appointments.
Equinox’s standard safety features include OnStar, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and tire pressure monitoring system.
The five-apssenger Equinox is one of the few compact SUVs equipped with a standard V6 engine. It is powered by GM’s 3.4-litre V6, rated at 185 hp and 210 lb.-ft. of torque. This durable overhead valve engine is coupled to an electronically controlled five-speed automatic.
A special Team Canada edition Equinox celebrating the upcoming Vancouver games, in addition to Equinox LS’s comprehensive roster of features, includes 17-in. bright chrome-clad aluminum wheels, deep-tinted glass behind front windows, premium cloth trim, cruise control, front and rear carpeted floor mats and extended range remote keyless entry.
Uplander: A crossover sport van for those with multifaceted lifestyles, the Uplander delivers the bold styling of an SUV, the passenger room and interior versatility of a van, and the smooth ride of a sedan.
The front-wheel-drive Uplander is offered in regular- and extended-length body styles, and can seat up to seven passengers. The lineup includes LS and LT models, as well as a commercial-use cargo van.
The Chevy Uplander is powered by a sophisticated 3.9-litre V6 that uses variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel efficiency while delivering 240 hp, 240 lb.-ft. of torque; a FlexFuel version that’s capable of running on E85 ethanol is available.
Uplander has a long list of standard comfort and convenience features, including air conditioning, power windows and power door locks, tilt-adjustable steering column, and an AM/FM stereo with CD and MP3 player. All radios (except navigation) are now equipped with an auxiliary jack for iPod/MP3 input. With its standard OnStar system, Uplander includes one year of GM’s Safe and Sound service with Turn-by-Turn Navigation.
StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with Traction Control is now standard on all models.
Innovative and clever storage solutions are found throughout Uplander and with comfortable seating for up to seven, Uplander offers numerous passenger and cargo space configurations.
BMW M-Model Sales More Than 50% Up in the first 11 Months of 2008!
Crisis? What crisis? While most car manufactures around the world are seeing their sales plummet in 2008, BMW's M-Division is flourishing in this harsh economic environment having exceeded the previous year's equivalent figures during the first 11 months of 2008 by over 50 per cent! From January to November 2008, BMW has sold 22,340 M-Model cars worldwide compared to 14,092 vehicles in the same period in 2007. In November 2008 alone some 1,900 BMW M automobiles were delivered around the globe. As long ago as August 2008 the worldwide sales figures of BMW M GmbH reached 16,150 units, thus surpassing last year's total figure of 16,128 units.
"The fact that our dealers were able to supply significantly more vehicles than the average of the last nine months even in such dramatic times for the world economy demonstrates the fascination and attraction which BMW M automobiles exercise on our customers," said Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW M GmbH.
A major contribution to BMW M's runaway success in 2008 has been the introduction of the all-new M3 which is now offered in three body variations (Coupe, Sedan and Convertible). The high-performance sports car sold almost twice as well in its first year of production than its predecessor model did within the same period.
Currently, BMW M offers seven models that include three body types of the M3, the BMW M5 Sedan and Touring as well as the M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible.
Overall, BMW brand sales in 2008 for the first 11 months of the year, are down 3.5% compare to the same period in 2007 to 1,105,112 units.
Mercedes to Unveil Concept BlueZero in Detroit - Previews 2010 B-Class
Mercedes-Benz, or to be exact, German car magazine Autobild, has released a series of sketches previewing the "Concept BlueZero" that will allegedly make its worldwide debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 11. The all-electric concept car is said to give us a first taste of the next generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class that's scheduled to hit dealerships in early 2010. The most anticipated version of the luxury 5-door hatch will be a fuel-cell powered variant which is expected to go on sale during 2010. According to Mercedes-Benz, it will be the first series production model to be offered with such a drivetrain.
The 2010 B-Class Fuel Cell model will be powered by a new generation of fuel-cell drive that is much more compact than other systems while at the same time offering better performance and, according to Mercedes, will be completely suitable for everyday use.
The electric motor used on the prototype B-Class Fuel-Cell develops a maximum output of 136HP and a torque figure of 320 Nm. Merc's engineers claim that the fuel cell model will give better acceleration figures than a B-Class fitted with a standard 2.0-liter petrol engine while consuming the equivalent of just 2.9 liters of fuel (diesel equivalent) per 100 km or 81.1 mpg US.
The Top Ten Most Stolen Vehicles of 2008
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute recently released the list of the top 10 most stolen vehicles for 2008. SUVs and trucks figured prominently in the list. However, it is interesting to note that the most stolen vehicles are not necessarily the flashier models on the road.
Car robbers tend to target vehicles that can be sold for parts, easily blend in with traffic or are popular in foreign markets where the cars can be disposed off easily. SUVs and trucks also spend more time parked in driveways or out in the street making them more accessible to thieves. To compile this list, the IIHS looked at insurance-claim reports to determine theft-frequency rates.
The 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV topped the most stolen list having the highest theft-claim frequency of any vehicle. In fact, it is 15 times more likely to get stolen than the least-stolen car which is the luxurious Mercades E Class sedan. “The Escalade has been the star of the show with car thieves for the better part of the decade,” says Russ Rader, an IIHS spokesperson. “It has pop-culture appeal, and thieves are attracted to it.”
Along with the E Class, other cars that have low theft-claim frequency reports are the Buick Rainer and the Subaru Forester. Here are the top 10 most stolen cars of 2008:
This is the car of the future
Well, this certainly is different. Usually, I’m on the other side of the table deriding environweenies for their unrealistic prognostications of what a gasoline-free automotive future looks like. Now, I find myself about to defend the practicality and, even more of a surprise to me, the salability of an over-priced, under-powered (quasi) battery-powered car. Surely, it is the end of days. At the very least, we should be on the lookout for locusts.
Said car is Chevrolet’s new Volt and the reason I’m defending it is that one of your esteemed columnists, Peter Foster, flubbed it off most recently as “revolting,” a pun all we autojournalists have been assiduously trying to avoid. Mr. Foster, being out of the loop, obviously didn’t get the memo.
Mr. Foster’s denigration of General Motors’ battery-powered Electric-Extended Range Vehicle (for those not familiar with the designation, the Volt is an electric car with a range of 64 kilometres on battery power alone after which a small gasoline engine kicks in to recharge the batteries, but not, it should be noted, drive the car) was based on two basic points. First, he thought that the Volt
was too expensive at an estimated price range of between $35,000 and $50,000 when it goes on sale in 2011. More damning, however, was his contention that General Motors was fooling us and, worse, itself into thinking that it can actually produce the Volt.
Much of the skepticism, including Mr. Foster’s, surrounding the debate on whether The General can develop the Volt is on the viability of lithium-ion batteries for automotive use with many predicting all manner of thermal catastrophes (that’s fire to you and me). Adding credibility to the argument, and I suspect making brave many of those skeptics, is the recent contention from Honda that lithium-ion batteries are not quite ready for prime time. Indeed, Honda’s recently-unveiled, low-cost hybrid Insight eschews high-tech lithium-ion for the more proven but not nearly as powerful nickel-metal hydride. Surely, General Motors can’t know something that mighty Honda doesn’t?
It just might. The important thing to remember, says Douglas Dauch, the lead engineer in GM’s Battery Systems Lab, is that there are more than 100 types of lithium-ion batteries. General Motors reviewed dozens of potential candidates and settled on two types: lithium-ion manganese spinell and lithium-ion iron-phosphate. Yes, I know it’s all propellor-head gobbly-gook, but the point is that, unless the naysayers have tested exactly those batteries, they are in no position to denigrate their performance.
Indeed, after Dauch finished his battery technology for dummies explanation, he pointed to the two T-shaped casings sitting on the floor beside us. It turns out these were the very first of the Volt’s battery packs to be put through GM’s rigourous long-term durability testing. Having been running 24/7 since April through real-world driving simulations, the batteries have already accumulated the equivalent of 50,000 kilometres on them… without cooling.
Yes, without cooling. Even though all production Volt will have a cooling system for their batteries, these test units had run their entire lifetime with it disconnected. Yet, they purred (OK, so batteries don’t “purr” per se, but you get the automotive analogy) along at a room-temperature 25 degrees Celsius. The packs just down the hallway running with full cooling? Well, they ran but two degrees cooler. That’s why Mr. Dauch just laughs when he reads media reports of the problems that GM’s development team must be undergoing.
“The battery technology is simply not the challenge anymore,” says Dauch with a certain amount of frustration, “Normal engineering crap is what we spend much of our time working on. Are they going to make the connectors in time for production? Can they reduce the number of fasteners needed since fewer parts means greater reliability? These are the kinds of things that worry us.”
And if Mr. Foster is really going to make GM’s inability make these lithium-ion batteries, should he also not pooh-pooh recent product releases by Nissan, Mercedes and Chrsyler. All have recently announced either electric vehicles or hybrids using lithium-ion batteries (Nissan with a manganese oxide chemistry similar to GM’s) as their energy storage. Both Mercedes’ and Nissan’s versions will be in showrooms before the Volt reaches production. Why no question of their abilities to produce similar technology?
Finally, Mr. Foster objects to the Volt’s projected price that educated guesses place squarely in low $40,000 range. And, yes, Mr. Foster is right; this is definitely more than a similarly-sized vehicle with the same equipment would cost if it were powered by traditional gasoline engine. But does Mr. Foster really expect the first-generation of any ground-breaking technology to cost no more than the outgoing? Does he really think that Toyota made a profit on all those firstgen Priuses it blew out the door at US$19,995?
And if the technology is too expensive for anyone to build at a profit, is Mr. Foster really suggesting GM abandon its alternative fuel strategy? Mr. Foster’s voice would be very faint indeed compared to the howls protesting that Detroit should be forced to make alternative-fuel vehicles at any price.
So, yes, General Motors will soon be selling what is, compared with today’s vehicles, a car that’s overpriced for its performance, size and equipment. But what Mr. Foster didn’t tell you is that all auto manufacturers are going to have to put out some sort of over-priced (or profitless), under-equipped, alternative-fuel, “green” vehicle. And after my sojourn to GM’s test labs, I’m convinced that Chevy’s Volt will prove the most useful of the lot.
New BMW Z4 to debut January ‘09?
Rumors about the arrival of a new BMW Z$ in 2009 have been buzzing for months. The rumors might just be true. According to a BMW insider, the automaker might debut a new, redesigned BMW Z4 next month. The new Z4 will offer drivertrain choices including either a naturally apspirated or twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, found in the 328i and 335i, respectively. An M verson with a V8 and a carbon fiber roof is also rumored to be available.
The 2009 BMW z4 is also expected to have new front and rear fascias, a lower roofline and ducktail spoilers as well as stylistic differences between the Z4 coupe and the folding hardtop variety. However, the soft-top Z4 is expected to be dropped from the mode lineup.
Meanwhile, a new Z2 is rumored to be currently in the works with coupe and cabrio variants and equipped with BMWs EfficientDynamics system. The two-door Z2, based on the 1-series, is expected to be powered either by a natrually aspirated or turbocharged 2.0-liter four with a possibe hybrid version using BMW’s eDrive system.
2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Truck 2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Truck
Canada today announced pricing for the 2-mode hybrid version of the award winning Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 seriescrew cab pickup trucks. With a starting MSRP of $46,725 for 2WD models and $50,875 for the 4WD models, the 2009 Silverado and Sierra hybrid pickups establish an industry-first by achieving an impressive 32-percent improvement in city fuel consumption and a 23-percent improvement in combined fuel consumption, while also delivering the capability expected of a full-size pickup truck.
“For customers who need a full-size truck, including a 2,767 kg towing capacity, but also want significantly improved fuel efficiencym, our hybrid pickup trucks are the clear answer,” said Marc Comeau, vice president of sales, service and marketing for GM of Canada. “GM has held the leadership when it comes to full-size pickup fuel efficiency for many years, but these hybrids take that to whole new levels. There is simply nothing else on the market that can match their combination of efficiency and performance.”
2WD models consume just 9.8L/100km in the city and 9.2L/100km on the highway with a range of more than 800 km, while 4WD models are estimated at 10.5L/100km in the city and 9.8L/100km on the highway with a range of over 750 km. Both trucks use GM’s patented two-mode hybrid system and a 6.0L gas V-8 featuring Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology. Together, they deliver highly efficient performance - including all-electric driving up to 48 km/h, enabling fuel savings to be realized even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer.
Production begins in December of 2008, with delivery to dealers expected in early 2009. All models come with an eight-year/160,000-mile hybrid component warranty.
Well equipped: Silverado and Sierra Hybrid “1SH” models are based on the popular Silverado LT and Sierra SLE trim levels and include equipment options such as the heavy-duty towing package, locking rear differential, EZ Lift tailgate and lock, and 18-inch chrome clad aluminum wheels. Also included are dual zone electronic climate control, head curtain side airbags, XM satellite radio, steering wheel audio controls and Bluetooth phone capability.
Equipment that is specific to the hybrid models includes:
- 6.0-litre V-8 engine (332 hp / 247 kW) with Active Fuel Management
- Low rolling resistance tires
- Hybrid ornamentation
- Soft tonneau cover
Additionally, an up-level (1SJ) hybrid package is available offering features and amenities such as bucket seats, navigation radio, rear seat audio controls, Bose speakers, power adjustable pedals, universal home remote, rear defroster, rear park assist, remote start, fog lights and a hard tonneau cover, available for $7,435 over the base MSRP.
General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles - more than any other auto company right here in Canada.¼/p>
A Cobalt to Beat the Pumps … Reviewer Declares Cobalt a Segment Leader
Kingston Whig-Standard by Joe Duarte: I love a challenge. If I’m handed something with the potential to be beneficial on some level, I’m going to do everything in my power to maximize that benefit.
Every time I drive a hybrid, I want to get my fuel economy as low as possible, within the boundaries of sensible driving - in other words, I won’t go driving at 80 km/h on the highway or 40 along a signed 60 road, but I will search out 40 km/h stretches of road in order to maximize running on batteries as long as possible.
A couple weeks back, I had the opportunity to drive a Toyota Prius converted with an auxiliary plug-in battery to further electrical range and, consequently, improve on my own Prius fuel-economy by about 25 percent.
So imagine my delight at taking over the keys to a Cobalt LS XFE (the XFE stands for “Xtra” Fuel Economy and promises a 13 percent reduction in city fuel consumption and eight percent reduction on the highway).
XFE is GM’s newly created designation for improved economy models of cars, pickups and utility vehicles. In Cobalt, the designation includes a higher final gear ratio for the manual transmission and low rolling resistance tires.
But this isn’t a “special edition”; it’s the entry-level Cobalt and it comes pretty basic - roll-up windows, joystick outside-mirror adjustments; manual transmission. The only option on our test vehicle was air-conditioning, which in the name of economy, I kept off the entire time I had the vehicle (and it had very little to do with the average -5 degree temperatures while the car was with me).
Let’s get the typical stuff out of the way quickly - beyond what I consider boring looks, Cobalt is a compact car with compact-like interior dimensions. That means room for four adults is reasonable but not extravagant; entry to the rear seats is challenging but not unmanageable; the trunk is large enough and flat-floored with releases to push down the 60/40 split rear seat-backs; and upholstery seems durable over sufficiently padded cushions.
Power comes from a variable-valve timed 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine that is larger than most would expect from this market. As a result, 155 horsepower are on tap, which makes it more powerful than both the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla 1.8-litre “fours” (140 and 128, respectively), with considerably more torque (150 versus the others’ 128). That means you will feel brisker acceleration than you would with its competitors (especially since they are pretty even in curb weight).
The trade-off is in economy, where the Cobalt’s larger engine saddles the diminutive sedan with fuel economy that is roughly eight percent worse in city driving, though it ties the Civic for best on the highway.
Now you may think to yourself, that’s not too bad considering you do get more power - that’s your choice. Me? I’m in it for the economy - after all, it is advertised as XFE.
So that got me thinking about how well I’ve done in past Cobalts, and I found out I hadn’t driven one in nearly two years (and that was the boy-racer SS coupe), and don’t have my fuel records from back then. I did find a colleague who drove last year’s version of this sedan and averaged 8.9 litres per 100 km, and I averaged 8.6 litres per 100 km in a Civic automatic a year and a half back.
So, it’s by no means outrageous to average 7.8 litres per 100 km in this latest Cobalt. I was hopeful it would be better, given the special designation, but it did come in some 10 percent better than other real-world tests, so I’d have to consider it a success.
And in going over my notes, I can’t really find anything to fault with Cobalt - the looks are blah, but that’s wholly sugjective; as is the observation that the shifter knob looks like a large plastic blac-licorice Tootsie Pop.
And that leads me to conclude that on all fronts, Cobalt is a fine entry-level sedan. Is it a segment leader? I’d have to conclude so, when I combine all the objective and subjective information I’ve gathered.
Nice car!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Hyundai Elantra Touring
The Hyundai Elantra Touring, with its modern, sleek styling and fun-to-drive qualities, was developed by Hyundai in response to the growing demand for stylish and functional five-door vehicles, sales of which doubled from 2001 to 2006. Five-door vehicle sales are projected to be strong into the next decade. The Hyundai Elantra Touring will also be the first five-door compact to offer standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), in addition to a host of other class-leading safety technologies. As with all Hyundai vehicles, The Hyundai Elantra Touring was designed and manufactured to meet the most stringent quality standards in the industry, exemplifying Hyundai's quality leadership position worldwide.
Flowing curves and strong character lines highlight the broad stance and long wheelbase of The Hyundai Elantra Touring. The clearly defined, unbroken, rising beltline unifies the vehicle's functional proportions. The effect is an exciting shape that provides a dynamic impression of performance and capability. Elantra Touring has a low coefficient of drag for optimal fuel efficiency at highway speeds and minimal interior noise.
Up front, the pronounced dual air intakes flow smoothly into the hood and A-pillar lines. Sharp projection headlamps, fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels complete the modern design.
ROOMY AND REFINED INTERIOR
The long wheelbase and generous width of the Hyundai Elantra Touring, combined with Hyundai's expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. Elantra Touring has the most interior volume (passenger volume plus cargo space) of any five-door in its class at 125.5 cubic feet. In fact, Elantra Touring's cargo capacity is 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, more cargo space than many larger wagons and crossovers.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring was conceived from the beginning as a driver's car. The clarity of the instruments, standard B&M Racing sport shifter, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and a supportive eight-way adjustable driver's seat all contribute to a superior driving experience. For extra clarity, Hyundai's signature blue LCD lighting technology has been used for the central information display and gauge cluster. Two-tone interior trim, with special attention to the upholstery fabrics and materials, delivers a more premium feel. Black and beige are the two interior color choices.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring is the first compact five-door to offer XM Satellite Radio® and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs as standard equipment. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, which is located in the center storage compartment, not only does it play music through the vehicle's six-speaker audio system, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than only the iPod itself. The center storage compartment location of the USB assures that iPods can be safely stowed out of sight. The roomy and functional interior is also a quiet place to be. Based on internal tests, Elantra Touring has four decibels lower road noise levels than Mazda3 five-door.
INTELLIGENT ERGONOMICS
With its leading-edge designs, Hyundai has proven through the years that vehicles do not need to be large to feel spacious, nor carry a premium price when offering intelligently designed interior cabins. The Hyundai Elantra Touring is just the latest expression of this thoughtful approach, incorporating conveniently located steering wheel audio/cruise controls and column stalks, easy-to-reach heating and air conditioning knobs, as well as conveniently positioned power windows and mirror controls. Even the positioning and precise feel of the automatic gearshift has been optimized. The integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio®/CD/MP3 audio system, map pockets and other storage areas round out the car's conveniently and intelligently designed interior space.
Sporty front seats, designed to complement the athletic driving dynamics of the vehicle, and carefully contoured rear seats, provide long distance comfort and support. Hyundai engineers focused not just on the seats' form and function, but also on the stitching, materials and bolstering. The front driver seat is fully height adjustable and includes lumbar support. The result is seating fit for the spirited driving that Elantra Touring inspires.
IMPRESSIVE PACKAGE EFFICIENCY
The Hyundai Elantra Touring's exterior dimensions (176.2 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 59.8 inches high) make it a great fit in the compact five-door segment, while its long wheelbase (106.3 inches) means that Hyundai Elantra Touring offers class-leading interior volume. Elantra Touring features outstanding front legroom and front and rear shoulder room. In addition, every Elantra Touring has 60/40 split folding rear seats that fold when needed for added storage, functionality and practicality.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring matches best-in-class passenger volume with best-in-class cargo capacity. There is a useful 24.3 cubic feet of luggage space with rear seats upright and a cavernous 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. As in any Hyundai, the utility and convenience in The Hyundai Elantra Touring has not been overlooked, with a stow-and-go removable luggage cover that stores conveniently out-of-site under the trunk area compartment. An optional restraining net is also offered.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglass holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, dash storage, central console storage, front storage tray, front seatback pockets and a cargo area under-floor storage. For tailgaters, the cargo area also has a power-retained 12-volt outlet, where the vehicle does not have to be turned on, for consumers who desire an outlet to plug in their portable electronic devices.
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Elantra Touring is powered by the same fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, in line four-cylinder found in the Elantra sedan. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for a very broad power band, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Elantra Touring is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV).
TRANSMITTING THE POWER
Hyundai understands that performance means more than just engine output, which is why transmission choices have been optimized for real driving satisfaction.
An ergonomically located gear shift with a SHIFTRONIC® manual feature controls the Hyundai Elantra Touring's four-speed automatic transmission, delivering confident mode selection and quicker, easier, more precise manual overrides. A unique-in-segment B&M Racing sport shifter delivers smooth, short-throw shift control for the standard five-speed manual transmission.
AGILE STEERING, SUSPENSION AND BRAKING
The Hyundai Elantra Touring offers a dynamic driving experience. A MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension have been fitted to perfectly complement the body structure's high rigidity. Ventilated 11.8-inch front and solid 10.3-inch rear discs with ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) provide excellent stopping power with added handling control.
Elantra Touring delivers high performance steering and adds unique springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and dampers. Elantra Touring features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, a 39 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger front stabilizer bar (24 mm) and larger rear stabilizer bar (21mm) than the Elantra sedan. Both 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels, with low and ultra-low profile tires, add visual impact and extra grip to the Hyundai Elantra Touring's sporty dynamics. The result is a car that simply demands to be driven.
Hyundai Elantra Touring steering character is another key driver of its sporty driving nature. Hyundai chassis engineers focused on delivering an agile feel, with direct responses to driver inputs. That spirit translates to a fun-to-drive character in everyday driving situations. And all drivers will appreciate Elantra Touring's nimble turning diameter - at 34.2 feet it is better than Rabbit's 35.8 feet and Caliber's 37.2 feet.
UNSURPASSED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES
Like every Hyundai, top-tier safety was a key development goal for the Hyundai Elantra Touring, which is fully equipped to protect driver and passengers. In terms of passive safety, it features dual front, side and curtain airbags, for a total of six protective airbags in the vehicle. The Hyundai Elantra Touring also features active front headrests, seatbelt pretensioners and seatbelt reminders. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 52 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Also according to the IIHS, active front head restraints improve rear crash protection.
These passive safety technologies are fully grounded in a state-of-the-art body structure, which includes deformable zones, occupant protection cell and three-way load distribution technology. Further rigidity has been achieved with reinforced A pillars, strengthened bulkhead, front and side members, and strengthened B and C pillars.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring comes standard with Electronic Stability Control, one of the industry's most effective life-saving technologies. ESC compares the driver's intended course with the vehicle's actual response. It then brakes individual front or rear wheels and/or reduces engine power as needed in certain driving circumstances to help correct understeer or oversteer. NHTSA studies show passenger cars equipped with ESC experience 30 percent fewer fatalities in single-vehicle crashes. Santa Fe, Veracruz, Tucson, Sonata, Azera, Elantra SE, Entourage and Genesis are all equipped with standard ESC. Approximately 73 percent of Hyundai vehicles offered in 2008 come equipped with standard ESC - a commitment to this sophisticated and effective automotive safety technology that is unmatched by any other popular automotive brand.
In developing and refining the safety features of the Hyundai Elantra Touring, Hyundai employed advanced design systems and sophisticated computer simulation, combined with intensive component testing. This is a process used in development of all Hyundai vehicles. From drawing board to prototype testing to final product development, Hyundai uses this extensive process to assure that all its vehicles - including the Hyundai Elantra Touring - meet or exceed government safety standards, as well as the expectations of vehicle buyers.
THE GOOD STUFF COMES STANDARD
Elantra Touring builds on Hyundai's reputation for offering loads of standard equipment, offering air conditioning, power windows, heated mirrors, door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm, steering wheel-mounted cruise control and audio controls, eight-way adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, and plenty of storage compartments. For audiophiles, an integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers, USB input and auxiliary input jack are standard. The Premium-Sport package adds a power sunroof with tilt and slide functions, heated front seats and 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45VR17 tires.
Lexus IS 350
The Lexus IS sedans showcase revised styling and gain enhanced interior function and improved handling for 2009. New suspension and steering tuning improve stability and control, and the Lexus IS 250 model, in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, gets the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. Already standard on the Lexus IS 350 model, VDIM integrates all of the car's dynamic-control systems to provide superior handling and traction.
The Lexus IS grille and front bumper cover are revised, as are the rear bumper cover and taillight clusters. New turn signals are now integrated into the exterior mirrors, and the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels feature new designs for 2009. On rear-wheel drive models, the 18-inch wheels can now be equipped with all-season tires.
Inside the Lexus IS Lexus enhanced form and function with a revised instrument panel center cluster. The paddle shifters now function in D mode, and some controls have been changed for improved convenience. The rear seat headrests are now foldable to aid rear visibility. New interior colors include Ecru (replacing Cashmere) and Light Gray (replacing Sterling), both accented by new contrast stitching on the seats, door panels, and console lid.
Among luxury brands, Lexus alone offers a unique choice in the entry-luxury segment: The rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive Lexus IS models emphasize the brand's sportier side, and the front-wheel-drive Lexus ES 350 is focused on ultimate comfort.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The 2009 Lexus IS line offers three models: The rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350, the rear-drive Lexus IS 250 and an all-wheel drive Lexus IS 250. The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The Lexus IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 delivers 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm and can accelerate the car from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
A direct-type fuel-injection system provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, enabling the high compression needed to extract maximum energy from the fuel. Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 differs chiefly in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, increasing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds. All 2009 Lexus IS models meet the Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification
An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the Lexus IS 350 and the IS 250 all-wheel drive model. The rear-wheel drive IS 250 comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS is engineered to provide for a sporty driving experience. Its double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. The multilink rear suspension emphasizes precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the Lexus IS sport sedans ultra-stable for confident driving. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the Lexus IS remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.
The sophisticated monotube shock-absorber design utilizes multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort. Available sport suspension with 18-inch wheels further enhances handling response.
The Lexus IS 250's available all-wheel-drive system provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and help correct the situation with a combination of braking and throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). The driver can disengage VSC via the "Trac off" switch, which can be desirable in certain situations.
The Electric Power Steering (EPS) helps to provide linear steering response, precise control and excellent straight-line stability. The vehicle-speed-sensitive system eliminates parasitic loss from a hydraulic pump, and reduces weight and complexity. Both Lexus IS models feature a four-wheel disc brake system, with the Lexus IS 350 equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors. In addition, the Lexus IS 350's aluminum four-piston front calipers aid in heat dissipation and stopping power and reduce unsprung weight. Standard all-season performance tires measure 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 AWD).
Available as a stand-alone option or as part of the Sport Suspension, summer 225/40R18 front tires and 255/40R18 rear tires reward the enthusiast driver with even higher cornering grip. The Lexus IS rear-wheel-drive models offer the sporty "X Package" option that combines sport suspension and five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels with a boldly styled front-lip spoiler and sport pedals.
Safety/Security Features
Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats.
In addition to the dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the Lexus IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. Advanced dual-stage front airbags are designed to deploy at one of two speeds, according to impact force. The driver's front airbag also includes an extra low stage designed to deploy based, in part, on the seat's position on its track. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to disperse the force of the bag.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. PCS relies on the radar sensor to detect obstacles in front of the car, and a PCS computer with sensor inputs from vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate is designed to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.
The available High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) helps to illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any Lexus IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system's seven-inch touch screen display.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
Standard amenities for the Lexus IS models include 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on Lexus IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Lexus IS 250 AWD model in addition features standard heated, leather-trimmed seats.
A multi-function switch allows the driver to set an adjustable speed warning and an adjustable RPM shift light in the tachometer. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. The standard HomeLink® programmable garage door opener also operates home security devices and other systems.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts of total power and 13 speakers. Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. A convenient mini-jack in the center console enables connection of an iPod® or other digital music player.
Luxury Options
A Premium Plus Package that is optional for all Lexus IS models includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats. The comprehensive "Sport" and "Luxury" option packages also include three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.
Like all Lexus models, the Lexus IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available as a stand-alone option or in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system's color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the Lexus IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
The sound of powerful V6 engines will resonate with driving enthusiasts, yet all vehicle occupants will appreciate Lexus' ability to minimize undesirable noises. A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there. No detail has been overlooked, down to the sound-absorbing sun visors.
Interior Design
The Lexus IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, help create an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
Lexus offers a refreshing approach to designing controls as compared to some competitors that are making controls more complex to learn and distracting to use. One example is the multi-information display located within the speedometer. This versatile feature integrates a trip computer that provides outside temperature, driving range, average fuel consumption, average fuel consumption since refueling (per tank), current fuel consumption, and average speed. The display also includes an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location.
Additional features are added to the multi-information display depending on selected options. When an Lexus IS model is equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, the display can show a car icon with the selected following distance. When equipped with Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.
Subaru Forester is Motor Trend’s Sport Utility of the Year
The Subaru Forester emerged triumphant from a field of thirteen contenders to clinch the 2008 Motor Trend Sport Utility of the Year award. According to Motor Trend editor-in-chief Angus McKenzie, the decision to give the award to the Forester was unanimous. “The Subaru Forester is the SUV for our times”, he added.
The Subaru Forester has had an excellent safety record. It recently received the highest possible ratings in frontal and side impact crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Aside from five-star frontal and side impact crash-test rating, the 2009 Forester also received a four-star rollover resistance rating. The 2009 model certainly lives up to it with cutting –edge safety technology such as ring reinforcement safety system; front, seat mounted side and three row side-curtain airbags; and ABS.
It also comes with standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which incorporates stability and traction control systems with a rollover sensor. The Subaru Forester is available with either a 170-hp 2.5-liter boxer engine or a 224-hp turbocharged engine. The 2009 Forester is built on an all-new platform featuring a 3.g-inch longer wheelbase (103.0 inches total) that helps improve ride quality and interior space, particularly rear seat legroom.
Hyundai Introduces Genesis Coupe
Hyundai Motor Co. aims at a higher level of quality and value with the recent release of the Genesis Coupe, touted as the automaker’s ‘halo vehicle’. At the launch in Jeju Island, a popular tourist destination in South Korea, Hyundai took the covers off of the Genesis Coupe for members of the Korean and international media. The new Genesis Coupe comes at the heels of the highly acclaimed Genesis sports sedan introduced earlier this year. With its simple, modern and crisp lines, the Genesis Coupe is the exemplification of Hyundai’s design evolution.
The Genesis Coupe also comes high performance capabilities and front engine rear wheel drive architecture. “The Genesis Coupe is our very first thoroughbred, a true halo car with all the hallmarks of a high performance car,” said Dr. Hyun–Soon Lee, president of the Corporate Research and Development Division. “The Coupe will do exactly what it was designed to do: Provide a thrilling driving experience and attract new customers to Hyundai showrooms and continue the transformation of our brand.”
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe will be powered by ange-topping, all aluminum 310 horsepower (premium fuel), 306 horsepower (regular fuel), DOHC 3.8-liter V6 Lambda RS. The base engine will be the 223 horsepower (premium fuel), 210 horsepower (regular fuel) 2.0-liter turbocharged Theta. Pricing for the 3.8L 310hp Lambda V6 version is expected to start below $30,000, while the 210hp 2.0L turbo four cylinder is expected to be priced even lower. Hyundai hopes to sell 40,000 Genesis Coupes a year: 5,000 in Korea and 35,000 in overseas markets.
First Drive: 2010 Ford Mustang GT
Before we hopped into the updated Mustangs, Ford wanted to give us a refresher on what was being left behind. We were supplied with 2009 models to drive from our hotel to the staging area in Malibu. Anyone who has ever spent time in a 2005-09 Mustang is immediately aware that the weak link is its interior. In a word, it looked and felt cheap. The order of the day for the new 2010 model is refinement. Find out after the jump if Ford has made a Mustang worthy of competing in the now crowded class of modern day muscle cars.
International Car of the Year announces Earth, Wind & Power Awards
Another green car of the year award, huh? In what seems to be an emerging trend, the International Car of the Year jury will add the Earth, Wind & Power (EWP) trophy for both cars and trucks to its current stable of awards. We've just gotten an early look at the models that are eligible for the World Green Car of the Year award, so how do things stack up between the two sets of vehicles vying for votes from their respective jurors? Somewhat surprisingly, not very well at all. There are three finalists for the EWP award: the BMW 335d, Volkswagen Jetta TDI and um, the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI. All German, all diesel, all the time. Moving along, we have three trucks facing off as well: BMW X5 xDrive35d, Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC.
Last year marked the first-ever Earth Angel (what's with the old music references here?) award, which is awarded to the automaker that's making the biggest eco-strides in all of autodom. Last year, the inagural trophy went to GM. That seems unlikely to be repeated this year.
Friday, December 12, 2008
More details on the Nismo-enhanced Nissan 370Z
Last month we showed you a leaked image of the upcoming Nismo enhanced 2009 Nissan 370Z, and now we have official details for the tuner’s ‘S-Tune’ package. While the teaser image we showed you earlier featured the rear of the car with a sizeable fixed rear wing, full bodykit and a new rear diffuser with an integrated brake light, the latest images reveal what the front and side of the Nismo S-Tune 370Z will look like.
Nismo, short for Nissan Motorsport, is the Japanese carmaker’s official in-house tuner and has been designing and building performance parts for various Nissan vehicles for years. Nismo’s most recent performance package was for the already formidable GT-R, which included a whole assortment of performance parts ranging from power mods, to aerodynamic aids, and even interior trim.
The new 370Z will likely feature a similar lineup of Nismo accessories. Some of the confirmed options include a nose piece extension, a front lip spoiler, side skirts, a rear spoiler, rear fender protectors, Nismo floor mats, a stainless steel exhaust system, Nismo LMZ5 19in forged wheels, stiffer suspension, and uprated brakes.
We also have images from a Japanese catalog that shows both a Nismo S-Tune ‘Aero’ and ‘Performance’ kit, as well as what appears to be a pricing list at the end. The pricing list also makes reference to an 'S' version, a 'T' version and an 'ST' version, and the final pricing for the cars appears to fall into the vicinity of ¥3.5 million (approximately $35,600) depending on what spec is chosen.
2009 Honda Insight Hybird: First Official Photos of Production Version
Honda has released the first official picture of the production-ready Insight Hybrid ahead of its worldwide premiere at the Detroit auto show in mid-January 2009. Not much has changed compared to the concept study that was shown in Paris this past October, meaning that if you found the prototype's styling somewhat dull and uninspired, then you're definitely not going to appreciate the further toned down appearance of the production version. Changes include a less sloppy roofline, smoothed out body creases, production headlamps and mirrors, a less aggressively styled front bumper as well as more-down-to-earth front grille and alloy wheel designs.
Underneath the sheetmetal, the five-passenger, five-door Insight will feature a mild hybrid powertrain which is essentially a development of the one found in the current Civic IMA combining an electric motor with a small displacement petrol engine and a CVT gearbox. This means that the Insight won't be able to run solely on electric power.
Honda supports that when the Insight goes on sale worldwide in the spring of 2009, it will be the most affordable hybrid car in the market. Even though has not been announced, Honda officials have said that the car will be priced around $18,000 to $19,000, significantly undercutting its arch rival, the Toyota Prius which begins from around $22,000
The Japanese firm expects to sell of 200,000 units of the Insight per year, with half of the sales coming from the North American markets.
HONDA INSIGHT CONCEPT STUDY
Toyota Auris
Practical, reliable and affordable, it helped to define the family market – so why is Toyota about to change everything for the new Auris? On the face of it, ditching the famous Corolla name is marketing madness. But fortune favours the brave, and the firm claims its new family car is so radically different, only a fresh badge would do.
Designed in Europe, there have been some pretty daring words bandied about prior to the launch of the newcomer. Sporty is perhaps the most obvious. But is the Auris really good enough to take on rivals such as the VW Golf and Vauxhall Astra? And can the newcomer match the impressive Honda Civic, which was not only designed and engineered in Europe, but is built in Britain, too? Auto Express was first behind the wheel of the Toyota to find out.
Early impressions are mixed. The Auris is only 50mm taller and 65mm wider than the current Corolla, and as such looks quite compact when compared to the Ford Focus. However, the fresh styling certainly has character, while a sportier suspension system is also promised, as is a new range of powerplants which will ultimately be crowned with a near-250bhp turbocharged T Sport version.
For the time being, though, our drive is limited to five engines, including 1.4 and 1.6-litre petrol units, plus a 2.0 and two 2.2 diesels. Jump behind the wheel, and the first thing you notice is how roomy the car is inside. It’s not only the extra head and legroom which stand out. The huge expanse of black plastic between the dashboard and windscreen makes the hatch feel bigger than it actually is, an effect created by the low-slanting A-pillar.
In fact, the designers extended the A-pillar so far forward that they have had to include an extra quarterlight window for better visibility. From the outside, the additional glass blends in well with the car’s profile. But from the front seat, it looks rather awkward.
Dominating the cabin is a silver-coloured ‘flying buttress’ centre console, which appears to be floating on the dashboard. It protrudes into the interior, and puts the gearstick, handbrake and switches all within easy reach. Unfortunately, we did notice some glare off the console’s shiny plastic surfaces. On top-spec models, dual-zone air-conditioning, a panoramic roof and paddleshifters will enhance the driving experience. Across the range, the seats are firm and supportive, and even the door handles have been specially coordinated to complement the console design.
The all-new chassis and suspension set-up makes the Auris a promising driver’s car. And just to keep owners on their toes, Toyota has fitted an ‘Eco’ light inside the speedo, which mea-sures your throttle input and glows green to reward efficient driving.
In contrast to the Corolla, the Auris’ chassis is a revelation. As well as better body control, its wider track and re-vamped suspension mean it devours corners effortlessly. Overall, the car feels very grown up, and there’s greater re-finement. On demanding roads, the Auris instantly proves more composed than its predecessor. And on the test track, it is easier to pick a quick line through corners, thanks to the neutral chassis and sharp turn-in. The steering itself is well weighted and responsive, and the rack is quicker than the old Corolla’s.
Crucially, the car’s braking is also much improved. That’s because the Toy-ota gets rear discs in addition to the vented front units, which deliver stron-ger, better balanced stopping power.
Ultimately, the Auris offers a whole lot more than the car which it replaces. It’s a Corolla that has ditched the med-iocrity, toned up its muscles, become much more athletic and taken a course in style and aesthetics. It will land in UK showrooms by next February. Rivals, you have been warned.
2009 Audi A7 Rendering – by CG Artist Gabriel Rabhi
I guess your wondering who Gabriel Rabhi is. Well, he could be you, he could be me, he could be anyone with a passion for cars. See, as we learnt from his website, Rabhi is not a professional automotive designer but a computer graphic artist that works for many companies and projects. A passion may fade over time, but as Rabhi’s A7 splendid rendering proves, it’ll never die.
Now, a word about his interpretation of an Audi A7 four-door coupe (rumoured to be unveiled sometime in 2008). According to Rabhi, the main characteristic of his A7 is the mid curve on the side of the car that’s inspired from 70’s muscle cars and is also evident on the upcoming A5 Coupe spy shots. Another highlight of his design is of course the 'ala' Alfa Romeo inspired hidden rear door handles.
A First Study Work
I’m CG Artist, video game and graphical software programmer, multimedia developer and composer. I’m living in
This car is the result of an intuitive work without any pretentious but a high rendering quality: I have done most of the design directly in 3 dimensions, on the basis of few roughs to define ideas. The absence of a real design work still visible: there are a few ideas, but the whole design is awkward, the language is not clear, the curves and volumes are not perfectly balanced, and numerous details are not realistic. This model is not the result of an advanced work of design with numerous roughs, a reflection to define perfect volumes and a new Audi design language. The design was the matter of only few hours.
But I think the result is good proof that fast virtual prototyping is a reality: I have used one of the best render engines to reach a high quality in lighting simulation, and I was inspirited by the classical Audi concept cars presentations, like the one of the Nuvolary to build a studio like view. And actually, it seems to produce studio like picture from an idea, the longer processes are design and modeling, not rendering.
From this rendering setup, it’s easy to build an animation and make it realistic moving in a virtual road, or in a real road with a final composition process to mix real pictures and virtual car pictures.
The design
The global look is four doors coupe that can be similar to the coming A7. The main idea is the mid curve on the side of the car that is inspired from the 70’s muscle car. This curve is near what has been done on the A5, but with a wider curvature. This curve is looking like a feline body before a run, with eyes that look at its prey.
To define the volumes of this model, I was starting with the automotive definition constraints: headlamp position, engine compartment space, seats position, rear passenger space, roof, boot volume, realistic wheel size… I started from an RS4 modified to take care of visible evolutions of the B8 platform mules: reduced overhang, larger wheelbase, wider track, engine backward.
This model is a little bit realistic about technical specifications. I think this model design is not extraordinary. But the rendering is good, and I can say it’s one of my masterworks. Going far beyond in rendering sophistication is not an easy thing. I have used a global illumination model finely tuned to have a large color frequency specter and rich gradients. The lighting was made to enhance the understanding of shape trough specular highlights.
Near-production Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X unveiled
Mitsubishi has revealed images of a near-production version of the all-new Lancer Evolution X high performance sedan. Looking almost identical to the Concept X and Prototype X vehicles rolled out at 2005’s Tokyo and 2007’s Detroit Auto Shows, the new Evo is set to turn the performance market on its head with its aggressive styling and giant-killing potential. The actual production car will be 99% similar to this model and will be shown at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September.
The new model features Mitsubishi's S-AWC traction and handling system. The latest generation AWD system integrates improved torque distribution and braking management, which allows for more responsive handling and a greater degree of control and stability.
Other features include a new lightweight version of the venerable 2.0L turbo mill with MIVEC3 valve control plus an aluminum cylinder block. Drive is sent to all four wheels via a new six-speed automated manual transmission that offers faster gear changes and improved fuel-economy over the previous generation’s conventional manual box.
For the first time in the model’s history, Mitsubishi will be releasing the car outside of Japan initially with the launch scheduled for the first quarter of next year in North America. The new Evo can’t come soon enough. Two of our writers are already sold and we’re sure there are a lot of similar stories all around the world.
Notes From The Portland Auto Show
The Portland Auto Show was going on over the weekend and I made my yearly trip to get an up close look at new models. Of course, it’s a very small show with no new concept cars, but it affords one the chance to see everything in one place. I have to say, this is a pretty boring year for cars. The only thing that really caught my eye, mainly from the rear, is the Volvo C30 (above). It’s a good looking little car and the interior is my vote for best in show. Super simple and clean. Quite a difference from where most manufacturers are these days.
As someone who may be in the market for a new car soon, there wasn’t much to whet my appetite. I still like the BMW 3 Series. And the new 1 Series looked better to me in person than in photos (but I still wish they were bringing the hatchback to the States). All in all, it made me want to keep my current car, a 1996 Audi A4, for a lot longer. My A4 is a great size car. On the small size by today’s standards, but I don’t care for larger models. The new A4 was on display (but you couldn’t sit in it) and it looks enormous. The car has grown with every new model introduction since mine, the new one being the third iteration since.
Overall, it makes me shake my head and wonder why these car companies can’t bring themselves to do much interesting in the way of design. Why isn’t someone really trying to do something different? What have the U.S. makers got to lose? The Mini Cooper has been around a long time now (even though the new Clubman is nice). The Honda Element has been around, too. As has the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Everything else just has a feeling of sameness to it.
The new Ford Flex was unexciting in person. It is such an imitation/variation of the Mini Cooper/Clubman, that Ford should be ashamed. And its interior is a horrible match to its exterior styling. Who makes these decisions at Ford?
Saturn is doing a decent job of creating a branded, family look between its vehicles, and it’s not a bad look, either.
That Chevy Malibu, though, is worse in person than in photos. I’ve already mentioned this, but having seen it in person, it is more a car you can ignore than one you can’t. Especially with the new, redesigned Honda Accord out there and the 2009 Mazda 6 on the horizon.
I still like Mazda’s lineup, but unfortunately did not see that upcoming new 6.
Jeep has problems. Unexciting line of vehicles from top to bottom aside from the classic Wrangler. Every time I see that Compass, I wonder how that front end made it through reviews and who signed off on it. And the new Dodge Nitro seems like it would be better with a Jeep badge on it (though it’s pretty darn Land Rover-ish).
The Infiniti lineup has long been a favorite of mine, but their new small sport ute is a disappointment. Looks way too similar to the new Hyundai.
Overall, Detroit has a big problem moving forward. The German brands seem to be setting the design standards and the Asian brands are doing a much better job of quickly following suit, with Detroit flailing off in left field somewhere. Left field is a fine place to be if you build a great car, but if you don’t, you’re better off playing follow the leader. That or settle for dwindling market share.
Extreme Angularity
As I posted about back in March and April of 2006 (and predicted a couple years prior to that), angularity is emerging as a dominant design theme. The latest and one of the most extreme examples of the angluar/faceted theme is the 2008 Lamborghini Reventon. Check out the gallery at Serious Wheels.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Yaris Named "Green Car" of the Year
You've probably herd that the Environmental Transportation Association (ETA), a British organization, recently named the Yaris its "Green Car" of the Year.In its search for this year’s winner, the ETA reviewed more than 1,300 models of cars on sale in Britain, scoring them based on their emissions, fuel-efficiency and noise-pollution numbers.
n the form in which it’s sold in Europe, the Yaris' average fuel consumption, when equipped with its optional 1.4L diesel engine, is rated at 52.3 mpg, and when equipped with its 1.0L gas engine is 44.4 mpg, enviable figures that almost certainly helped vault it past its competitors.
One of those was the Prius, which was also in the top three of the ETA’s Green Car list.
Here in this country, of course, the Yaris is equipped with a 1.5L gas engine, which when equipped with a manual transmission, is rated by the EPA at 29 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, with a combined mpg figure of 32.
It’s interesting to note, however, that the EPA’s fuel economy site, which lists the fuel economy numbers developed during strict EPA testing, also lists the economy numbers recorded by actual owners and drivers of the cars in question. The site lists the Yaris owners’ on-road mpg numbers as falling into a wider range than the EPA test numbers, with city numbers a bit below those listed by the EPA, and highway numbers vastly above those listed by the EPA.
No matter. What counts is that for people looking for economical, environmentally responsible rides, there are options. And according to the Environmental Transportation Association, Yaris is one of them.
StreamLife Car Concept with Hydrogen Fuel To Reduce Air Pollution
Streamlife is a car concept that is best suited for urban space and environment. It uses hydrogen fuel as substitute fuel which after burning in the engine, leave nothing except water vapor. So, you will be safe from pollution. Its design is quite narrow and is best suited for crowded traffic environment. To minimize the use of plastic, the interior and the body is made up of plant based environmental protection materials. Streamlife is small in size and light in weight, therefore offers a stylish and new look to the user. It will surely provide nonstop fun to environment lovers.
Designer : Liang Tian
900bhp Carerra GTT 900 at Essen Motor Show 2008
Before mentioning any tech specs of the following monster I would like to clarify that the 900 stands for 900 horsepower!!! That’s is!!! The car is a super powerful and turbocharging damn speedy masterpiece. Frankly speaking, we don’t know yet whether the 900bhp Carerra GTT 900 comes with the same V670 turbochargers or not. The only one thing – its engine makes me think that the car will make a flight in the literal meaning of the word.
The car was presented in a scarlet red colour with its iconic and unusual wheels and even more unusual and strange front wheel wells. The car also comes with a reworked bodykit. Unfortunately, there were no details as to pricing and its release date. Frankly speaking, I don’t think this car will be street-legal and what about you???
Chrysler and Chery officially pull the plug on small car venture
Any thoughts that Chrysler had of getting small cars through a joint venture with China's Chery Motors are now officially dead. The Detroit News has been told by Mike Manley, Chrysler EVP for international sales, that discussions between the two companies have concluded and the companies will pursue their own directions. The slackening Chinese market has meant that Chery has been losing significant amounts of money there and can't afford to invest in expansion to engineer and produce products for Chrysler elsewhere. Chrysler's hope had been to use the low cost of production in China to source small cars, but Chery is so far from producing products that would be able to pass US safety and emissions regulations that the cost would still have been prohibitive for Chrysler. For now it looks like Chrysler will be relying on Nissan and its Versa platform, at least in Central and South America. It's still not known if they will offer a variant of the Versa in the US.
Solar Taxi arrives at UN Climate conference after 17 months on the road
Swiss teacher Louis Palmer is nearing the completion of his round-the-world trip in a solar-powered vehicle. Palmer arrived at the UN Climate Change conference in Poznan, Poland last week in his solar taxi. The two-seat trike has completed 32,365 miles over the 17-month trek, running mostly on solar energy collected through a trailer covered in photovoltaic cells. Unfortunately, clouds limit the amount of energy that can be collected from the sun at times, so Palmer has had to plug in the taxi now and again. As for Palmer, he gets his energy by demonstrating the viability of solar power as a means of moving a car.
Palmer will spend this week at the conference demonstrating the taxi to attendees at the conference before he heads back to Switzerland to complete his trek. While Palmer's feat is pretty amazing, powering vehicles using direct solar power will likely not be a practical commercial alternative for many years to come. The size of the solar trailer needed just to power this little taxi (see a picture here) is not viable for mass adoption.
LOOP Car Concept with Classy Design
Abhinav Dapke has come up with “Loop”, the new concept car that is not just a good design but much beyond. The car has been designed by Bahrain based Indian designer. By this design, Dapke has tried to link both the present and the future. The overall look and feel of the design is very creative and classy and also in the process is environment friendly. LOOP car concept design has silently proclaimed its commitment for going green.
Designer : Abhinav Dapke
Travis Pastrana rumored to be injured, out of '08 Race of Champions
This may come as a shock (or, actually... not at all), but Travis Pastrana is rumored to have injured himself, which may render the oft-maimed X Games star unable to compete in the upcoming Race of Champions. The RoC pits the world's greatest drivers from various motorsport (and other sports) against each other piloting identical vehicles, including the new KTM X-Bow. Pastrana has already raced in the RoC back in 2003, 2006 and 2007 – always making at least the quarter finals and managing to reach the finals in '06. He was most recently in the news for winning a Gold medal in the Rally competition at this past summer's X Games 14 (shown above during competition at X Games 13, in which he also earned Gold).
This time, Pastrana is rumored to have broken a hip and an ankle, though we're not sure how the injuries were sustained. If Travis isn't able to make it, Top Gear USA co-host and rally racer extraordinaire Tanner Faust may join NASCAR driver Carl Edwards to represent Team USA for the event. Of course, we send our best wishes to Pastrana for a speedy recovery.
Venturi Volage Electric Supercar Is a 2012 Concept
Designed by Michelin, the Venturi Volage concept uses Active Wheel Technology in order to give each wheel extra control, so the vehicle would run better and safer. The exterior look of this car is impressive, but sadly this is a 2012 concept we’re talking about, so we’ll have to do some serious waiting.
EDTA 2008: EnerDel's Th!nk City
In the back corner of the EDTA Conference last week was the EnerDel booth featuring the prototype Th!nk City with EnerDel's lithium battery pack. We chatted with Ener1 Chairman and CEO Charles Gassenheimer about the car, the battery packs and the future (Ener1 owns EnerDel).
Gassenheimer told AutoblogGreen that 2009 is the year that EnerDel will turn the corner from a "science project" (as some call it) to a profitable company. EnerDel has received a purchase order for $34 million battery packs for next year, about half of EnerDel's $70 million contract with Norway's Th!nk. EnerDel isn't saying the actual price of its packs, but Gassenheimer said that, "Analysts have estimated that we're selling packs for about $17,500 per pack, so quick math tells you that's about 1,900 to 2,000 packs for next year."
Aside from the Th!nk order, Gassenheimer said EnerDel has, "shipped a battery pack to one of the largest Tier 1s in Europe and they've already installed the pack into a vehicle for testing. What we've done is tried to diversify our customers a little bit so we're not just solely dependent on Th!nk. I anticipate we will be able to announce fairly substantial programs and get into volume production in 2009."
Mazda Taiki, the Future of Automotive Design
Is it just me, or does this car resemble the Batmobile a bit? Back to the serious bit of this concept, Mazda stated that the car’s design is inspired by the wind flowing through a Hagoromo (”flowing robes that enable a celestial maiden to fly”). Now that’s open thinking!
VW Tiguan is IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2008
The Tiguan, Volkswagen’s compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), is the Top Safety Pick for 2008 of the Insurance Institute for Highway Travel. The award is the highest rating from the non-profit research organization. It recognizes the vehicles that perform best in passenger safety through a series of evaluations: front, side and rear crash tests. Only vehicles with electronic stability control and head protection airbags are included in the tests.
According to Adrian Lund, IIHS president, the Tiguan earned top marks in the front and side crash tests without a single downgrade for structure or measures of injury likelihood recorded on the dummy. “We are extremely proud when organizations like IIHS recognize the hard work of our engineers who are dedicated to the safety of our customers,” said Stephfan Jacoby, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “This award is further validation of Volkswagen’s Prevent and Preserve Safety System approach to vehicle safety.”
The Prevent and Preserve Safety System consists of 45 safety features that help protect the driver and passengers as well as avoid crashes or keep the severity and consequences of possible crashes to a minimum. The Tiguan comes standard with the Prevent and Preserve Safety System, including ESP and six airbags, with rear seat airbags as an option. Tiguan, the GTI of Compact Sport Utility Vehicles, also features the “fun to drive” handling and performance expected from a Volkswagen.
GM has spent $750 million developing the Volt
According to this CNN Money piece, GM has actually spent about $750 million to develop the Volt, much of that in battery research. Apparently GM recognizes the need to stay ahead of (or at least alongside) the competition in developing new technology and is willing to take the risk of spending that kind of money even in desperate times. Of course, some of that money will eventually be spread across the range when the Volt's powertrain and battery advances get shared with other GM models. Still, it's unlikely the Volt will add to rather than bring down the bottom line until a second generation model is introduced, which may not be until 2014-2016.
First test drive of the new '09 Zap Xebra
As we reported early last month, Zap has finally updated its three-wheeled Xebra for 2009 with a new steel body and much more storage space through its new hatchback. While we're happy to hear that one of the few actual electric vehicles on the market and available today has seen vital upgrades, we've yet to run across a review of the newly-revised model... until today. Mark LaPedus over at EE Times hopped in a new '09 at the local dealership in San Jose, California, and he's shared his thoughts with the rest of the class, even comparing the Xebra with his 2008 Honda Accord. LaPedus seems to have liked the car, going so far as to suggest that he'd be willing to drive one on a regular basis.
The last page of ADL's review of the Xebra has a few quotes from Zap regarding the ongoing saga of loans to the Detroit 3. Click here to read the entire report.
Easy Ways to Improve Gas Mileage
Gas prices may be on the decline for now but there is no reason why you should not find ways to save on fuel costs. With a few easy to do practices, you can significantly improve your gas mileage and start saving up on gas expenses. Here are some effective gas mileage tips:
Be an efficient driver – Avoid aggressive driving habits such as speeding, rapid acceleration and excessive braking as these can lower your gas mileage anywhere between 5-33%. Always observe the speed limit; the gas mileage of a vehicle significantly lowers at speeds of above 60mph. Remove unnecessary heavy items in your vehicle as this can also reduce your MPG. When running short errands such as picking up the kids, or going to the drive-thru, avoid excessive idling as this also wastes gas. Use cruise control and overdrive gear.
Introducing the new 2009 Honda City
The new Honda City 2009 looks promising with a redesigned front exterior that is inspire by the FCX Clarity. The interiors feature a neat dash with a clean and simple instrument cluster and center stack. The new headlamps feature reflector lenses which are less expensive than projector type.
Behind the steering wheel are paddle shifters for the automatic transmission. A 120-horespower 1.5 liter four-cylinder i-VTEC engine will provide power to the new City. This engine is also available on the Fit and Jazz models.
Here are some great sneak photos of the new 2009 Honda City:
Volvo plans to release 'micro-hybrid' in 2011
Volvo's product development unit is still hard at work, even as Ford has slapped a price tag on the brand. In an effort to develop more environmentally-friendly vehicles capable of meeting stringent emissions regulations on the horizon, the Swedish automaker has been working on some new highly-efficient vehicles. In addition to the DRIVe trio of ultra-efficient diesel-powered models, Volvo is working on an all-new micro-hybrid model. Set to join the lineup in 2011, the vehicle will be available with a choice between gasoline or diesel power, and a manual or automatic transmission. Fuel-saving technology will include a start-stop system plus brake-energy regeneration to cut consumption by nearly 5 percent. We'll see a full hybrid (with the ability to run on electric power only) in 2012 with the D5 diesel engine (Volvo's similar battery and flexfuel ReCharge Concept is above). A plug-in electric is also expected to follow down the road.
Diesel hybrid technology will be in Peugeot and Citroën showrooms in 2011
Hartley reworks Hayabusa powerplant for easy use in autos
We've been enamored with the idea of stuffing a Suzuki Hayabusa-derived V8 engine into an appropriately light and sporty four-wheeled conveyance since we first learned of such a powerplant's existence last Spring. The task of creating a 'Zuki-powered sled is set to become significantly easier now that Hartley Engineering has managed to rework the 'Busa block a bit. An entirely new crankcase has been designed and hewn from a huge chunk of 6061 T6 aluminum. It may not be a V8, but this new inline-four engine, known as the H2, is a diminutive powerhouse that can bolt right up to a standard automotive transmission. Why is this a big deal? Motorcycle gearboxes generally don't have a dedicated reverse gear and usually output their high-revving power via a chain. Now, the prospect of a 140-pound engine with over 200 horses powering something along the lines of a Super 7 has us salivating once again. Those with equally imaginative minds can now begin plotting their next projects, as the H2 is expected to be ready for purchase in early '09.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tesla delivering the 100th Roadster today
Another bright spot in the current darkness. The 100th Tesla Roadster will be delivered today at the Tesla store in Menlo Park in Silicon Valley. Elon Musk, Tesla Motors' CEO and chairman will be there at noon to hand over the keys to "a special customer" according to Rachel Konrad, Tesla's senior communications manager. Not sure if that means a celebrity or just a "cashed up greenie," but, whoever it is, it's good to see Tesla is moving forward even with a bit of upheaval in the ranks.
For a long while, I've heard people criticize Tesla for being real good at taking orders, not so good at delivering vehicles. Now that we've finally hit the big 1-0-0 and production speed is ramping up, it's not as easy to say this. I'll be way more impresed when Tesla delivers #100 of the Model S, but this is still a good milestone to reach.
eBay Find of the Day: Obama's old Chrysler 300C
Back when Barack Obama was still vying for the official Democratic presidential nod, the now President-elect made a well-publicized switch from a HEMI-powered Chrysler 300C to a Ford Escape Hybrid. The issue, of course, was that the HEMI is seen as a gas swiller (15 mpg city / 23 highway) and an obvious target for those looking to point a finger at the junior senator's green credentials. So, out went the 300C and in came the defacto mode of transportation for image conscious politicians: a Ford Escape Hybrid. The trade made headlines a while before everybody moved on to more important issues. Or have they? Obama's old 300C is back in the news and currently up for auction on eBay Motors.
Just how much would it cost to park Obama's old whip in your driveway? We'll know for sure in about a week, but the opening bid is a rather staggering $100,000. Even a low mileage 2005 300C (this one has racked up just 20,000 miles) isn't worth more than about $17,000 or so on the open market. Is it really worth an extra $80,000 (and probably much more) to drive the next President's ex-car? If so, the bidding is now open.
Holden Volt coming in 2012 without Green Car Innovation Funds
Also on schedule for Australian consumption in 2010 are flex-fuel Holdens. Along with the ethanol capability, GM is working with Coskata to open its first-ever plant outside the United States. That plant will make the alcohol fuel from waste products
Chrysler and Chery officially pull the plug on small car venture
Any thoughts that Chrysler had of getting small cars through a joint venture with China's Chery Motors are now officially dead. The Detroit News has been told by Mike Manley, Chrysler EVP for international sales, that discussions between the two companies have concluded and the companies will pursue their own directions. The slackening Chinese market has meant that Chery has been losing significant amounts of money there and can't afford to invest in expansion to engineer and produce products for Chrysler elsewhere. Chrysler's hope had been to use the low cost of production in China to source small cars, but Chery is so far from producing products that would be able to pass US safety and emissions regulations that the cost would still have been prohibitive for Chrysler. For now it looks like Chrysler will be relying on Nissan and its Versa platform, at least in Central and South America. It's still not known if they will offer a variant of the Versa in the US.
Refreshed Mazda MX-5 Roadster goes on sale in Japan
G-Wiz doing just fine, thanks
In light of reports of slow electric car sales in the UK and the NICE Car Company's collapse, the distributor of the Reva G-Wiz i, GoinGreen, wants to let everyone know that they are still around and doing just fine, thank you very much. Although their sales are about half of what they were in 2007, they are claiming "good financial health" and expect that the downturn in the economy will affect them positively since their battery-powered buggies are inexpensive to buy and operate in a British motoring environment that's fraught with costly congestion charges, exorbitant parking fees and steep fuel prices.
In the case of the G-Wiz i, it's suffering sales are likely more closely related to bad publicity from horrendous crash results broadcast by the popular Top Gear television show than the economy. Although they've made improvements to both drivetrain and chassis since then and are now offering their Indian-sourced vehicle at a discounted £7,995 (on the road!), the design is starting to get a little long in the tooth and some buyers may be holding out for the UK rollout of the Th!nk City or Mitsubishi i MiEV. Hopefully, Reva will come through on their promise of new models and help GoinGreen remain a going concern. Find an official statement from GoinGreen after the jump.
Saab Aero-X
| ||||
2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class unveiled via web leak
We've seen so many spy shots of the upcoming 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class that these official images hardly move us. Yet here they are, three images leaked onto the web that reportedly reveal the final production form of the 2010 E-Class, which makes its official debut
The new E-Class was previewed by the Mercedes-Benz ConceptFascination that debuted at this year's Paris Motor Show, and we can see now that the front of the production car was heavily influenced by the concept. Gone are the round, quad headlamps, which have been replaced with new light fixtures that still number four but are more contemporary and clean. Strips of LEDs can also be had as fog lights in the outermost intakes of the lower front bumper, which must be a German thing as Audi and Porsche have placed the advanced lighting tech in similar areas on their cars. The soft lines of the current model have been chiseled into a crisper shape that shares creases with its big brother, the S-Class, and the new profile appears to be more forgiving of tall passengers in back. The unfortunate looking Galant-like rear end features large, rectangular tail-lights that cross over a rather voluminous-looking trunk.
We expect the new 2010 E-Class to be loaded with more advanced performance, safety and entertainment technology than ever before, including the ability to read road signs, monitor driver fatigue and see in the dark without its lights on. In Europe it will be available with engines that range from four to six to eight cylinders large and are fueled by either gas or diesel. In the U.S., we should expect what we have now: a V6, V8 and AMG model.
Rendered speculation: Could MINI revive the Moke?
Wrightspeed X1, a casualty of our economic woes
Instead of making his own line of green sportscars, Wright will focus on just the drivetrain, hoping to sell batteries, motors and controllers to other upstart manufacturers. We can see how this might make sense - if one company does all of the research and development for the assorted powertrain components, it should make it cheaper to get a new EV project off the ground. We hope it works. Thanks for the tip, Why not the LS2/LS7!
Geneva '08: Saab 9-X BioHybrid concept, ethanol, hybrid, solar and aero
| ||
|
Saab Hatches New 9-3 Concept
 | ||||
|
Mitsubishi set to idle Illinois plant for seven weeks
Slumping sales have pushed Mitsubishi to schedule a production stoppage at their Normal, Illinois plant early next year for a period lasting more than 40 days. The facility, employing 1,568 workers, manufacturers both the Galant and Eclipse. When the assembly line lights go dark between February 16 and April 3, it will signify the longest halt of production since the facility began operation in 1988. The news obviously isn't good, but it thankfully doesn't carry any immediate word about layoffs. According to Mitsubishi, all employees will remain on payroll during the shutdown and be shifted to other non-production jobs, including maintenance and training.
All-electric race car to be unveiled at Performance Racing Industry show
and KleenSpeed Technologies Inc. have teamed up and will unveil the first all-electric production race car at the We were wondering when someone would consider taking advantage of the potential for massive torque and wicked acceleration that a modern electric drivetrain can offer and build some race cars that could also boast some environmental credentials. We wonder no more. West Race CarsPerformance Racing Industry trade show this week. Yeah, we've told you about some other folks with electric racer plans in New Zealand and the UK but this is happening here in America and it isn't just a "one-off." According to West CEO Eric Vassian, "We are planning on an initial production run of five West WX10-T electric race cars for 2009, and have already sold the first one."
The new racer should look similar to West's gas-powered WX-10 (above) and be capable of hitting 150 mph. With the help of regenerative braking, the battery is said to be capable of duking it out for 45 minutes, though it is designed to be quickly swapped out so the car can compete in endurance racing events. The International Motorsports Association (IMSA) is also involved with the development of the WX10-T, giving the project some heavy duty bona fides and a good shot at success. Now all they need are some enviromentally-minded racecar drivers.[Source: West Race Cars]
2010 Ford Mustang GT stretching its legs
Renault introduces eco2 version of Twingo, 104 g/km CO2
Would reviving the Viggen help or hurt Saab?
Viggen is loosely translated from Swedish to mean "torque steer that will bust your elbows." Actually, Saab borrowed the Viggen moniker from a fighter jet for a top-dog version of the 9-3 that bowed in 1999. The Saabophiles at Turbonines have been dreaming as of late about a new Viggen, and they've even got Photochops to illustrate their points. The basic premise is that the "Hirsch Edition" Saabs being created for the German market carry plenty of even higher-end dressing up than the TurboX range topper we get here in the States, and it'd merely be a matter of diverting some of those vehicles this way with some new badging. We've tried the TurboX and mostly liked it, and Turbonines goes on to advocate for installing some of these goodies in ports, which would further reduce federalization costs. Of course, no matter how you slice it, the only-600-in-the-US TurboX can still be had, so adding another vehicle to Saab's lineup that would occupy the mid-$40,000 price point and get its teeth bashed in by Audis and BMWs might not be a smart move for GM's tiniest of sellers.
Chevy Volt will cost GM $750 milllion
Still, GM seems to have learned an important lesson as it fell far behind in hybrid technology, which was another extremely expensive bit of kit to create and the court of public opinion has dictated that the cost is worth it. So, despite the fact that The General won't make any money on the Volt until around 2016, don't expect the automaker to put the brakes on the program any time soon.
Top 10 Least Stolen Vehicles in 2008
Yesterday we showed you the Top Ten Most Stolen Vehicles in 2008 based on thefts per number of insured models. While many of you pointed out that these were, in fact, not the most stolen vehicles overall, most of you agreed that they weren't worth risking time in the clink over, either. Even the most stolen vehicles overall like the Honda Civic, Accord and Toyota Camry don't really seem worth the trouble unless you run a chop-shop. So what can you do to keep your daily commuter parked safe and sound in the driveway? Perhaps drive one of these.
Again using new data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute, we've assembled a new list of the Top Ten Least Stolen Vehicles in 2008. Not all of them are undesirable, some just have very good protective devices. Others are just so popular that their owners don't let them out of their sight. We make no promises about whether or not your particular car will be stolen, but we do know that the IIHS says these vehicles generate the fewest insurance-claim reports related to theft. As before, the figures are reported in number of claims filed for every 1,000 vehicles insured each year, and this most recent report covers vehicles made and sold between 2005 and 2007. So follow the banner to find out what the least stolen cars of 2008 are.
Four-cylinder Toyota Highlander priced at $25,705
Toyota has just announced pricing on the 2009 Highlander SUV with its new 4-cylinder engine. The latest entry-level model in the Highlander lineup will arrive at the dealership with a base MSRP of $25,705. That figure cleanly undercuts the price of the Highlander V6 FWD ($27,600) and the Highlander Hybrid ($34,700). The new 4-cylinder engine displaces 2.7-liters and is rated at 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an all-new 6-speed electronically-controlled automatic, it's enough motivation to get the SUV to 60 mph in a claimed 9.7 seconds, yet still return an EPA estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway (22 MPG combined). For comparison, the Highlander V6 is rated at 18/24 and the Hybrid at 27/25... yes, the new gasoline-fed inline-4 is more efficient than the hybrid on the highway. Look for the new four-cylinder Highlander at Toyota dealers in January.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
BMW 7-Series
The launch of the fifth generation of the BMW 7-Series sets a new benchmark in automotive luxury, technical innovation and class-leading driving dynamics, combined with emissions reducing and fuel saving technology.
The flagship of the BMW model range debuts in November with a host of world firsts and will initially be offered with a choice of three powerplants, one diesel and two petrol engines. The two petrol-powered cars will be offered with a long-wheelbase body too. All three engines produce more power yet use less fuel and produce less emissions than any rival premium product.
The BMW 730d sets a new benchmark in terms of drivetrain performance. The new all-aluminium 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine produces 245hp at 4,000rpm. Its effortless real world driving smoothness comes courtesy of a peak torque figure of 540Nm attained from 1,750rpm through to 3,000rpm.
The 2,993cc powerplant posts the lowest ever CO2 figure of any BMW 7-Series before it and it is also the most economical 7-Series ever. Its 192g/km emission figure is class-leading for conventionally powered luxury cars, while no other competitor comes close to its 39.2mpg combined consumption figure. It can accelerate from zero to 62mph in 7.2 seconds and has a 152mph top speed.
To put the BMW 730d's competitive advantage in context this luxurious vehicle records near identical fuel consumption and CO2 emissions to the Mercedes C320CDi - a car that is two market segments below the BMW 7-Series and is smaller and lighter than the BMW.
The impressive performance of the 730d is, in part, possible due to third-generation common-rail direct injection incorporating piezo injectors that operates at a peak pressure of 1,800 bar. This system ensures a near perfect combustion process. Weighing 185kgs the new six-cylinder diesel engine is also 5kgs lighter than its predecessor.
The BMW 730d is set to be the biggest seller in the UK, accounting for approximately 85 per cent of sales.
The BMW 750i and BMW 750Li are the range flagships. The new 4,395cc V8 engine from the recently launched BMW X6, featuring twin-turbochargers and high-precision direct injection technology, produces 407hp from 5,500rpm to 6,400rpm. Impressive figures that are backed up by an equally stunning 600Nm of torque from 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm. Such breathtaking performance sees the BMW 750i accelerate from zero to 62mph in 5.2 seconds (5.3 seconds for the 750Li) before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Consumption on the combined cycle is 24.8mpg, while CO2 emissions equate to 266g/km.
The all-aluminium V8 engine powering the 750i and 750Li also features its own world first - twin-turbochargers and catalysts that are placed within the V-space of the engine block. This not only optimises packaging but the reduction in manifold length and larger cross sections mean the engine breathes better for enhanced performance. Double-VANOS variable valve technology and high-precision direct injection technology further aid engine performance to the degree that all the innovations combine to offer a V8 engine that has an equivalent output of a traditional 12-cylinder unit.
Aimed at customers who prefer the characteristics of a petrol-powered BMW six-cylinder engine, the BMW 740i and 740Li are also offered. Using an internationally-acclaimed 2,979cc powerplant, the BMW 740i musters 326hp and 450Nm of torque for rapid yet serene performance. The twin-turbocharged engine features high-precision direct injection and Double-VANOS variable valve technology to achieve optimum performance. The 3.0-litre BMW 740i and 740Li post combined fuel consumption figures of 28.5mpg and 28.3mpg respectively, while returning emissions figures of 232g/km and 235g/km.
All BMW 7-Series models come with a six-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
EfficientDynamics
The launch of the new BMW 7-Series completes the line-up of the entire BMW range now being equipped with EfficientDynamics technologies fitted as standard. With its roof, doors, bonnet and side panels all made from aluminium to dovetail with the principle of lightweight engineering, the BMW 7-Series also has other innovative class-leading technology which improves engine performance, while cutting fuel consumption and emissions.
Brake Energy Regeneration uses the engine's power on overrun, such as braking, to charge the battery for the car's electrical circuit. When the driver is accelerating the alternator disengages so all of the engine's power is channelled towards the car's performance. Other ancillaries, such as the air-conditioning compressor, are also able to disengage to improve the all round performance of the car. This intelligent use of drivetrain power is why EfficientDynamics technology has helped the BMW 7-Series become a class-leader in terms of performance, fuel consumption and emissions.
World firsts
The BMW 7-Series' drivetrain superiority is reinforced with a plethora of automotive firsts. All BMW 7-Series can now be specified with the world's first Head-up Display incorporating a speed limit warning system. A camera mounted on the back of the rear view mirror scans oncoming road signs to alert the driver of any impending speed restriction. The BMW 7-Series is also the world's first car available with a Side View camera system that operates in conjunction with Park Distance Control. The system provides an overview of traffic conditions on the iDrive display so the driver can negotiate a partially obscured junction, leave a car park or drive through a narrow gate with absolute confidence.
The new BMW 7-Series can be specified with the world's most advanced Night Vision system in a production car. BMW was the first manufacturer to fit a Night Vision system to a premium car and it has now upgraded this package to include an individual person recognition system in another world first. A control unit within the system analyses video data of human behaviour as part of the Night Vision camera's reach and can subsequently alert the driver if it detects a human is moving into the path of the vehicle.
Building on the impressive list of innovations, the BMW 7-Series is the first BMW to feature Lane Change Warning combined with Lane Departure Warning. The latter is a system that first appeared on 5 and 6 Series models and uses a camera to monitor road markings. Should the driver start to stray out of lane, a gentle vibration of the steering wheel would provide an alert. However, courtesy of cameras located in the door mirrors, Lane Change Warning adds another tier of driver safety. The two cameras constantly scan the blind spot either side of the vehicle, up to a distance of 60 metres, and alert the driver to the presence of another vehicle with a triangular symbol in the door mirror.
Completing the host of innovations is speed-related Integral Active Steering. A car specified with this optional equipment allows the rear wheels to turn by up to 3º. At slow speeds it is highly manoeuvrable, while at a faster pace it offers enhanced composure and driving dynamics. BMW's flagship car is also the world's first to come with full-scale Internet connectivity.
Tailormade driving dynamics
The latest generation BMW 7-Series is the first to have Dynamic Driving Control featuring Dynamic Damping Control as standard. Dynamic Driving Control is the umbrella function that lets a driver customise the characteristics of his or her car. As part of this Dynamic Damping Control can bet set in comfort, normal or sport modes, but, for the first time, with the added benefit that these settings are infinitely variable depending on driving style and road surface condition. Depending on selected mode the throttle response, gear change speed and steering feel are also altered at the same time.
To aid driving dynamics and comfort the BMW 7-Series is the first BMW Saloon to feature race car-like double-wishbone front suspension. This arrangement allows engineers to fine-tune the suspension for the best kinematic configuration. The rear suspension consists of a five-link arrangement made of aluminium which can be further optimised with the inclusion of Adaptive Air Suspension.
The 2009 BMW 7-Series comes as standard with Dynamic Stability Control + featuring additional functions such as Hill-Start Assistant, Brake Drying, Brake Pre-tensioning, Soft-stop and Brake Fade Compensation. Dynamic Traction Control can be activated via a button to enable spirited driving or greater traction of slippery surfaces such as snow and ice.
A new interior
The new BMW 7-Series comes with one of the most luxurious interiors of any premium car. In addition to a new iDrive controller and larger 10.2-inch screen, owners will be able to programme frequently selected radio stations or navigation destinations on favourite buttons located on the centre console. For the first time on a BMW the instrument cluster comprises a high-resolution colour display with Black Panel technology. This new style of display makes for greater character clarity and, when not in use, forms a smooth, homogenous black surface that gives the interior an added level of modern elegance.
With its 40Gb hard drive, the BMW 7-Series is the first production car in the world that enables a customer to upload their favourite music to be stored on the vehicle. In excess of 100 albums can be saved in this way for the driver's enjoyment. Four-zone automatic air-conditioning can be specified and, for the first time, the BMW 7-Series can have a rear seat ventilation system combined with massage function. The air-conditioning system feeds cool air to the seat squab and backrest while twelve massage bubbles gently kneed the occupants' upper body.
The BMW 7-Series comes with BMW ConnectedDrive with enhanced BMW Assist and BMW TeleServices as standard. BMW Assist is the reactive safety blanket that automatically dials the emergency services if the driver is involved in an accident. For the BMW 7-Series this life-saving system has been improved so that it can now tell the emergency services the severity of the accident and the likely injuries of those inside. BMW TeleServices sees the 7-Series automatically communicate with a call centre if it the car is due a service or a potential fault is detected. A dealer will then contact the owner to arrange a convenient time to rectify this.
The BMW 7-Series goes on sale in the UK on 15 November, 2008.
Technical Specifications
* BMW 750i
o Displacement: 4.395 cm3
o Max. Power: 300 kW/407 PS @ 5.500-6.400 rpm
o Max. Torque: 600 Nm @ 1.750-4.500 rpm
o 0-100 km/h: 5,2 s (BMW 750Li: 5,3 s)
o Top speed: 250 km/h
o Combined Fuel Consumption (EU): 11,4 l/100 km (BMW 750Li: 11,4 l/100 km)
o CO2-Emission (EU): 266 g/km (BMW 750Li: 266 g/km)
* BMW 740i
o Displacement: 2.979 cm3
o Max. Power: 240 kW/326 PS @ 5.800 rpm
o Max. Torque: 450 Nm @ 1.500-4.500 rpm
o 0-100 km/h: 5,9 s (BMW 740Li: 6,0 s)
o Top speed: 250 km/h
o Combined Fuel Consumption (EU): 9,9 l/100 km (BMW 740Li: 10,0 l/100 km)
o CO2-Emission (EU): 232 g/km (BMW 740Li: 235 g/km)
* BMW 730d
o Displacement: 2.993 cm3
o Max. Power: 180 kW/245 PS @ 4.000 rpm
o Max. Torque: 540 Nm @ 1.750-3.000 rpm
o 0-100 km/h: 7,2 s
o Top speed: 245 km/h
o Combined Fuel Consumption (EU): 7,2 l/100 km
o CO2-Emission (EU): 192 g/km
Opel Agila
With five doors and five seats, the new Opel Agila is not only as practical as its predecessor, which sold over 440,000 units, but is now also much more dynamically designed. The small, versatile Opel was unveiled to the public at the 2007 IAA in Frankfurt (September 13 - 23, 2007) and made its market premiere in spring 2008. It boasts balanced proportions, soft curves and a distinctive side graphic. Its passengers still sit high and upright, but the roofline has been dynamically lowered and now blends into a smooth arc toward the rear. This helps create the Opel Agila's aerodynamic drag coefficient of 0.35 - a relatively low figure for a vehicle of this size. The urban car is now 20 centimeters longer, six centimeters wider, but seven centimeters lower than its predecessor.
The front boasts typical Opel styling. With its round headlamps integrated into almond-shaped lamp units that echo the new Corsa, the Opel Agila sees the world through wide eyes. The tapering of the front and rear bumpers are also typical Opel elements, just like the crease in the hood. The rear also features several rounded details. The positioning of the narrow vertical light units, which are accented by the spherically styled rear lights, allowed designers to create a large, easy load-through tailgate.
The same is true for the interior: the boring days are over. A wide selection of fresh colors and modern styles create an ambience that's enhanced even more by the spacious headroom. The versatile five-seater's high seating position ensures good visibility, while the high placed gear stick and height-adjustable steering wheel with radio remote controls ensure easy operation. The rev counter is housed separately on the instrument panel. All other information readouts are given on large, distinctive, round instruments.
As an urban car it also offers plenty of compartments and boxes for storing all passengers' belongings. But it's not just car essentials that the new Opel Agila stows away easily. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the new Opel urban car boasts a surprisingly large luggage compartment. Its standard capacity up to the luggage compartment cover is 225 liters, large enough for a stroller, for example. One turn of a handle drops the rear bench seat back, increasing the load volume to an impressive 1050 liters - a top value in this segment. The rear bench seat and back also splits 60:40 for even greater versatility.
All Opel Agila models have a wide range of standard equipment, including safety features such as ABS, front and side airbags for driver and front passenger, front passenger airbag deactivation and mountings for the ISOFIX child seat system. And thanks to the five doors as standard, small children can be secured into a child seat quickly and safely. Standard comfort features in the entry-level version include speed-dependent power steering, height-adjustable driver and front passenger seats, rear window washer with interval selection and power tailgate with touchpad. The Enjoy model boasts an even greater range of standard features.
Two gasoline engines make their world premiere in the new Opel Agila. Supplied by cooperation partner Suzuki, they share the same design - aluminum cylinder block and head, as well as two overhead camshafts.
The entry-level unit is the almost one-liter, three-cylinder gasoline engine. The four-valve unit produces 65 hp (48 kW) and has a top speed of 160 km/h. The 1.2-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine produces 86 hp (63 kW), accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in less than 12 seconds and has a top speed of 174 km/h (values for five-speed manual version). This engine is now optionally available with a four-speed automatic transmission - an especially attractive alternative for city driving.
The fuel-saving master among the Opel Agila engines is the 1.3-liter common-rail turbo-diesel. Developed by GM Powertrain, the diesel engine is a true multi-talent and also offers an especially efficient alternative in the Corsa and Astra model lines. In the new Opel Agila it produces 75 hp (55 kW), has a top speed of 162 km/h and a zero to 100 km/h sprint of 13.5 seconds. The powerful diesel unit with a maximum torque of 190 Nm is very economical: on average it consumes less than five liters per 100 km, which represents a CO2 per kilometer value of under 130 g (finalized values not yet available).
Make the Opel Agila even more agile - that was the aim during chassis development. The new dynamic look is also reflected in the car's responsiveness. The Opel Agila's chassis, which features A-arms and McPherson struts in front and a torsion beam axle in the rear, is tuned for driving fun. Depending on the market and equipment variant, the Opel Agila also features an Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
CAR drives Tata Nano, goes 60 mph in 17 seconds
The Tata Nano's claim to fame is its budget $2,500 price tag. You'd have trouble picking up a 1995 Honda Civic with 140,000 miles on it for that price. But what do you get for the price of a lawn tractor? How about a 624cc 33-hp motor mated to a four-speed manual transmission, for starters. That potent combo will propel any lucky Nano driver from 0-60 in 17 seconds. Add some groceries and a passenger (or a slight uphill grade) and we're guessing you'll never see 60 mph in any time frame.
CAR Magazine in the UK recently became one of the first publications in the world to drive the Nano and did mention that it has a compliant ride, which is quite a feat considering the MSRP. The Nano also has options like a radio and air conditioning, but if you ever want to go faster than 50, we'd advise you skip the freon. Tata is looking to remedy this "performance" problems with a more powerful gasoline powerplant mated to a five-speed automatic, but for now the Nano will only manage to hit 60 in the time it takes to heat up a hot dog in your 1,200-watt microwave. That 13-year-old Honda is starting to sound pretty good right about now.
BMW 3-Series
It is the epitome of sporty flair in its segment and for years it has maintained the leading position as the mostly widely sold premium vehicle in the world. Now the BMW 3-Series sets out to extend its lead even further. Specific design modifications, a further refined interior design, the new generation of the optional operating concept BMW iDrive, new services provided by BMW ConnectedDrive, a revised range of engines and innovations in the areas of drive technology, safety and comfort make both the new BMW 3-Series Saloon and the new BMW 3-Series Touring more attractive than ever before. With rear-wheel drive, harmonious axle load distribution, outstanding steering precision and highly sophisticated chassis technology, the BMW 3-Series sets unsurpassed standards for driving dynamics in its segment. More than ever before, this unique driving pleasure can now be combined with an awareness of economy and minimised pollutant emissions. Thanks to BMW EfficientDynamics the new BMW 3-Series achieves significantly lower fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels with each of the ten engine variations available than those of the relevant competitors in the premium segment.
The new features in the powertrain field include the further optimised electronically controlled all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. This intelligent all-wheel drive system which variably distributes the drive force between front and rear wheels to enhance driving dynamics as well as ride stability and traction can now be combined with five engine types. The new BMW 320d xDrive is available as a Saloon and Touring model. Another new feature for both body versions: the BMW 318d - by far the most efficient vehicle of its category with an average fuel consumption of just 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres - is now also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Parallel to the market launch of the new BMW 3-Series Saloon and the new BMW 3-Series Touring, a new 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch will be presented for the Coupé and the Convertible of the series. This allows further improved acceleration figures in the models BMW 335i Coupé and BMW 335i Convertible, and combines this added dynamic performance - as compared to the standard 6-speed manual transmission - with the comfort features of an automatic transmission. The 7-speed sports automatic transmission with double clutch shifts without interrupting traction.
New design accentuations for a sporty, elegant appearance.
With striking design accentuations to the front section, the side perspective and the rear, the dynamic character of the new BMW 3-Series Saloon has been given additional emphasis, while the new BMW 3-Series Touring enhances its sporty, elegant profile with new visual features which are recognisable from all perspectives.
Front section with bold shapes and an emphasis of width.
The front view of the Saloon and Touring models of the new BMW 3-Series is characterised by a clear emphasis of vehicle width. The characteristic brand look of the double circular headlights is underscored by means of chrome tubes, and their corona rings can now also be used in the BMW 3-Series Saloon and the Touring model with optional bi-xenon headlamps as daytime running lights. The light sources of the direction indicators have a ribbed structure and LED direction indicator lights are installed in conjunction with the optional bi-xenon headlamps.
Side view with elegantly elongated lines.
Powerfully taut surfaces and striking character lines dominate the side view of the new BMW 3-Series. The contour edges of the side skirts have been set higher and modelled in a more distinctive fashion. Another new feature is the exterior mirrors with two distinctive character lines, echoing the interplay between the convex and concave shaping of the surfaces. The mirrors also offer an enlarged field of vision.
The rear: sporty and tight with a new lighting design.
Greater emphasis of the vehicle's power and sporty character likewise characterises the rear view of the new BMW 3-Series. To achieve this effect, the rear bumpers, rear lights and luggage compartment handle have been completely redesigned. The dual section rear lights are now structured according to the characteristic BMW L shape. The two LED rear light clusters and the direction indicators in LED technology are designed to create a striking, high-quality appearance.
The widened track of the new BMW 3-Series especially contributes to its powerful appearance. Depending on the model, the track of the rear axle has been widened by up to 24 millimetres by means of a new wheel carrier and other modified details.
High-quality materials and optimised ergonomics in the interior. The modern, high-quality interior of the BMW 3-Series has been further enhanced by means of specific modifications in the selection of materials and surface design. Here the modern design concept is also applied, with its convex-concave surfaces, sporty elegance and technology-oriented aesthetic style.
Premiere for the new generation of the operating concept BMW iDrive. The operating system BMW iDrive is optionally available in the new BMW 3-Series for the activation and control of entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunications functions, whether standard or optional. The new generation of iDrive is available in conjunction with the optional navigation system Professional. What is more, the new iDrive supports multi-mode operation by voice entry. With the new iDrive generation, BMW extends its lead over comparable systems made by other manufacturers in terms of display quality and intuitive operation. Using the four direct selection buttons grouped around the Controller, it is especially easy to switch spontaneously between CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The functional bookmarks are supplemented with three control buttons.
Control Display with high-resolution graphics and variable layout.
The new iDrive in the BMW 3-Series is presented with a 8.8 inch Control Display whose dimensions surpass all graphic displays available to date in the automobile field. With its high image resolution it offers significant improvement in the display of detailed graphics. The structure of the user menu also makes it easier to locate desired functions. All functions controllable by iDrive are listed in the starter menu.
Hard drive for audio files and navigation system.
The features of the navigation system Professional include a hard drive integrated in the vehicle. The storage medium with a capacity of 80 GB provides outstandingly fast access to digital maps for navigation purposes and can also be used for an extensive collection of music files. The system enables music files to be transferred to the hard drive from a CD, MP3 player or USB stick.
World premiere for unlimited internet use inside the vehicle.
BMW ConnectedDrive makes BMW the first automobile manufacturer in the world to enable unlimited use of the internet inside the vehicle when stationary. Internet access is available for the new BMW 3-Series as a special equipment option at attractive flat-rate conditions. The transfer of data is based on EDGE technology (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution), which unlike UMTS offers full geographical coverage and is three to four times faster than the mobile phone standard GPRS. The basis for internet use in the vehicle is provided by the further developed functions of iDrive. By pushing the Controller in different directions, the mouse can be moved across the web page shown in the Control Display.
BMW ConnectedDrive with extended range.
As a dynamic concept, BMW ConnectedDrive offers the products BMW Assist, BMW Online, BMW TeleServices and BMW Tracking, depending on the country in question. At the same time BMW ConnectedDrive is designed for the ongoing further development of services to increase mobility and information convenience. The Enhanced Emergency Call with automatic positioning and remote control functions are examples of safety-related options which are already available, extending the lead of BMW ConnectedDrive over the competition.
The new BMW 3-Series: the engine of success for BMW EfficientDynamics.
With its further optimised engine range, the new BMW 3-Series further extends its leading position in the segment in terms of driving dynamics and economy. With all engine types, both the Saloon and the Touring model boast superior fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels than those of their competitors of comparable output.
Depending on the model-specific constellation, the new BMW 3-Series features the latest measures for increased efficiency. All petrol and diesel engines available for the new BMW 3-Series represent the state of the art in engine development. What is more, an extremely wide spectrum of efficiency-promoting measures has been applied within the engine environment so as to further reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. This includes Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start/Stop Function, Shift Point Display, the needs-oriented control of auxiliary units, electro-mechanical power steering, tyres with reduced rolling resistance and Automatic Air Intake Flaps. With the comprehensive application of these technologies in what is the most successful BMW model series in terms of sales figures, the development strategy BMW EfficientDynamics achieves an especially broad impact.
New 6-cylinder diesel engine in the BMW 330d.
In accordance with BMW EfficientDynamics, every new BMW offers increased driving dynamics in combination with reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels as compared to its respective predecessor model. An especially striking example of this is the BMW 330d. Its 3.0 litre allaluminium engine has common rail injection of the third generation, whose piezo injectors operate at a pressure or up to 1,800 bar, and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. The new diesel engine achieves its maximum output of 180 kW/245 bhp at an engine speed of 4,000 rpm, while its maximum torque of 520 Nm is available from 1,750 to 3,000 rpm. The new BMW 330d accelerates in 6.1 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, its maximum speed is electronically cut off at 250 km/h. The average fuel consumption of the new BMW 330d according to the EU test cycle is 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, its CO2 level is 152 grams per kilometre.
BMW BluePerformance technology: prepared for the exhaust gas norm EU 6.
The new BMW 330d is fitted as standard with a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. Thanks to the innovations applied to the new 6-cylinder engine, it significantly undercuts the thresholds set for the exhaust gas norm EU 5. In the oxidation catalytic converter, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide are converted to water and carbon dioxide. For further reduction of nitrogen oxides in exhaust emissions, a NOX-storage catalytic converter can be integrated in the exhaust gas treatment system of the new 6-cylinder diesel engine, in addition to the oxidation catalytic converter. In the optional configuration with BMW BluePerformance technology, the new BMW 330d even meets the requirements for classification according to the future exhaust gas norm EU 6.
Like the new BMW 6-cylinder diesel engines, the engines of the models BMW 320d and BMW 318d also meet the requirements of the exhaust gas norm EU 5 as standard. Their 4-cylinder diesel engines have been modified in a number of details, and the further reduction of exhaust emission levels has been implemented so as to have no impact on fuel consumption and the acoustic properties of the engines.
Engine selection: the greatest variety and highest level of efficiency in the segment.
The ideal combination of driving fun and efficiency also characterises the other engines available for the new BMW 3-Series. Spontaneously responding, high-torque 6-cylinder and 4-cylinder diesel engines, powerful and highrevving 4-cylinder petrol engines and the 6-cylinder in-line petrol engine wellknown for its unique refinement and dynamic power delivery form a portfolio which is unequalled in the segment of the BMW 3-Series.
With five petrol engines and five diesel engines, the new BMW 3-Series offers the most extensive range in its segment. When it comes to both petrol and diesel power units, customers have the choice of four 4-cylinder and three 6-cylinder engines. The output range extends from 105 kW/143 bhp in the 4-cylinder models BMW 318i and BMW 318d to a 225 kW/306 bhp in-line 6-cylinder engine in the BMW 335i. All engines are available for both the BMW 3-Series Saloon and the Touring model, and all are combined with the latest BMW EfficientDynamics measures in the environment of the engine, as suits the specific model configuration. Each of the ten engine types thus has a more favourable relationship between driving dynamics and economy as compared to competitor vehicles of similar output.
As one of a number of features which are unique within the competitive field, all petrol engines are fitted with High Precision Injection and all diesel engines combine an all-aluminium crankcase, turbo charging and common rail direct injection of the third generation. The BMW 335i is especially dynamic, accelerating in just 5.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h. The outright leader in terms of efficiency in the entire vehicle segment is the BMW 318d with an average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.7 litres per 100 kilometres and a CO2 emission level of 123 grams per kilometre.
Optimised all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive - now for the BMW 320d xDrive too.
The new BMW 3-Series also presents a further expanded selection of engine types for combination with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. For the first time it is possible to fit 4-cylinder models of this series with xDrive. The new BMW 320d xDrive combines outstanding efficiency with superior properties in terms of driving dynamics and traction. Both for the Saloon and the Touring of the new BMW 3-Series it is now possible to combine three petrol engines and two diesel engines with the intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive. The models in question now bear the designations BMW 335i xDrive, BMW 330i xDrive, BMW 325i xDrive, BMW 330d xDrive and BMW 320d xDrive.
The electronically controlled permanent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive offers an incomparable level of comfort, traction and agility over all surfaces due to its flexible distribution of drive torque between the front and rear axles. In order to ensure especially precise control, the computer unit of the drive stability regulation system Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and that of xDrive are networked with each other in the Integrated Chassis Management (ICM). With these capabilities, xDrive supports driving dynamics because it identifies any tendency to oversteer or understeer early on and counteracts effectively.
Superior chassis technology, Active Steering as an option.
The new BMW 3-Series has the most sophisticated chassis technology in its segment. At the rear axle there is a five-link construction which is adapted to the needs of the especially high-power and high-torque engines. The front axle of the BMW 3-Series also reflects a unique standard of engineering. The dual-arm tension strut axle with stabiliser is largely made of aluminium.
The standard equipment also includes an electro-mechanical steering system with integrated Servotronic function for speed-related steering support. Active Steering is also optionally available: here, steering transmission is adapted to road speed.
Optimised occupant protection with crash-active headrests.
The safety concept of the new BMW 3-Series is based on a solid body structure, the selective application of high-strength steel types and special deformation elements which divert and absorb impact energy. In addition there are six airbags, 3-point automatic belts and headrests on all seats to offer occupants optimum protection. What is more, ISOFIX children's seat mounts on the rear seats are a standard feature. The front seats of the new BMW 3-Series are fitted as standard with crash-active headrests which significantly reduce the risk of injury to the cervical spine in the event of an impact. Controlled by the vehicle's safety electronics system, this feature ensures that in the event of a rear-on collision the front section of the headrest is moved forward by up to 60 millimetres and upwards by as much as 40 millimetres. This reduces the distance between headrest and head, thus increasing the stabilising and securing function of the headrest.
A contribution to active safety is made by the new generation of adaptive headlight, optionally available in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps. It guarantees illumination of the road surface when taking a corner. Here the swivel direction of the headlamps is derived from the steering angle, the yaw rate and the road speed of the vehicle. At low speeds the turning light is activated. This function is performed by one of the two inside headlamps, depending on the direction. Before each turning manoeuvre, the light cone is turned specifically in the appropriate direction to illuminate the road ahead.
Best heating and climate comfort in the segment.
In the area of comfort fittings, too, the new BMW 3-Series has a range of optimised features to offer. The further developed heating and air conditioning technology ensures that the interior maintains the desired temperature throughout the year. The new BMW 3-Series has the most high-performance heating and cooling system in its category. Within one minute the entire interior air volume can be completely exchanged three times. In spite of the outstandingly high air through-flow rate, excellent acoustics are ensured by means of a flow optimisation function in the unit and its feed lines and by means of an air outlet positioned at the centre of the instrument panel. A 2-zone air conditioning system is optionally available with individual temperature controls for the driver and front passenger.
Technical Specification
* BMW 335i
o in-line 6-cylinder petrol engine with Twin Turbo and direct injection (High Precision Injection)
o capacity: 2,979 cc
o max. power: 225 kW/306 bhp at 5,800 rpm
o max. torque: 400 Nm at 1,300-5,000 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 5.6 seconds (Touring: 5.7 seconds)
o top speed: 250 km/h
o average fuel consumption (EU): 9.1 litres/100 kilometres (9.3 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 218 g/km (222 g/km)
* BMW 330i
o in-line 6-cylinder-petrol engine with direct injection
o capacity: 2,996 cc
o max. power: 200 kW/272 bhp at 6,700 rpm
o max. torque: 320 Nm at 2,750-3,000 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 6.1 seconds (Touring: 6.2 seconds)
o top speed: 250 km/h
o average fuel consumption (EU): 7.2 litres/100 kilometres (7.3 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 173 g/km (175 g/km)
* BMW 325i
o in-line 6-cylinder-petrol engine with direct injection
o capacity: 2,996 cc
o max. power: 160 kW/218 bhp at 6,100 rpm
o max. torque: 270 Nm at 2,400-4,200 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 6.7 seconds (Touring: 6.9 seconds)
o top speed: 250 km/h (248 km/h)
o average fuel consumption (EU): 7.1 litres/100 kilometres (7.2 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 170 g/km (173 g/km)
* BMW 320i
o in-line 4-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection
o capacity: 1,995 cc
o max. power: 125 kW/170 bhp at 6,700 rpm
o max. torque: 210 Nm at 4,250 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 8.2 seconds (Touring: 8.4 seconds)
o top speed: 228 km/h (226 km/h)
o average fuel consumption (EU): 6.1 litres/100 kilometres (6,2 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 146 g/km (148 g/km)
* BMW 318i
o in-line 4-cylinder-petrol engine with direct injection
o capacity: 1,995 cc
o max. power: 105 kW/143 bhp at 6,000 rpm
o max. torque: 190 Nm at 4,250 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 9.1 seconds (Touring: 9.5 seconds)
o top speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h)
o average fuel consumption according to EU
o 5.9 litres/100 kilometres (6.0 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 142 g/km (144 g/km)
* BMW 335d
o in-line 6-cylinder-diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase
o common rail direct injection of the third generation and Variable Twin Turbo
o capacity: 2,993 cc
o max. power: 210 kW/286 bhp at 4,400 rpm
o max. torque: 580 Nm at 1,750-2,250 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 6.0 seconds (Touring: 6.1 seconds)
o top speed: 250 km/h
o average fuel consumption (EU): 6.7 litres/100 kilometres (6.8 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 177 g/km (178 g/km)
* BMW 330d
o in-line 6-cylinder-diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase
o common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry
o capacity: 2,993 cc
o max. power: 180 kW/245 bhp at 4,000 rpm
o max. torque: 520 Nm at 1,750-3,000 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 6.1 seconds (Touring: 6.2 seconds)
o top speed: 250 km/h
o average fuel consumption (EU): 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 152 g/km (155 g/km)
* BMW 325d
o in-line 6-cylinder-diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase
o common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry
o capacity: 2,993 cc
o max. power: 145 kW/197 bhp at 4,000 rpm
o max. torque: 400 Nm at 1,300-3,250 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 7.4 seconds (Touring: 7.6 seconds)
o top speed: 235 km/h (233 km/h)
o average fuel consumption (EU): 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 153 g/km (155 g/km)
* BMW 320d
o 4-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase
o common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry
o capacity: 1,995 cc
o max. power: 130 kW/177 bhp at 4,000 rpm
o max. torque: 350 Nm at 1,750-3,000 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 7.9 seconds (Touring: 8.1 seconds)
o top speed: 230 km/h (228 km/h)
o average fuel consumption (EU): 4.8 litres/100 kilometres (4.9 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 128 g/km (130 g/km)
* BMW 318d
o 4-cylinder diesel engine with all-aluminium crankcase
o common rail direct injection of the third generation and turbocharger with variable turbine geometry
o capacity: 1,995 cc
o max. power: 105 kW/143 bhp at 4,000 rpm
o max. torque: 300 Nm at 1,750-2,500 rpm
o acceleration [0-100 km/h]: 9.3 seconds (Touring: 9.6 seconds)
o top speed: 210 km/h (210 km/h)
o average fuel consumption (EU): 4.7 litres/100 kilometres (4.8 litres)
o CO2 emissions (EU): 123 g/km (125 g/km)
Ford Fusion Hybrid
We're in the City of Angels this week to drive a bunch of new Fords, including the new 2010 Mustang and Fusion. We started off Monday afternoon with a mileage challenge in the new 2010 Fusion Hybrid. We can't share our driving impressions until Saturday, but we can tell you the results of the mileage contest. Ford hybrid applications manager Gil Portalatin used his intimate knowledge of the car to set some benchmarks the day before. Ford claims the Fusion will get at least 39 mpg city/ 37 mpg highway when the EPA numbers are calculated in the coming weeks. Portalatin got 46 mpg on the first segment of the drive route and 43.5 mpg on the hillier second part. Among the journalists on hand, Car and Driver's Steve Siler recorded a 43.6 mpg result on the first part. After Drew Phillips and I switched places for the second segment, I achieved 43.1 mpg, which is a very impressive number for Ford's new mid-size sedan.
Skoda Fabia GreenLine
Even before the start of the discussion on climate change, Škoda Auto had already sworn its allegiance to environmental compatibility. Engines which operate economically with lower pollutant emissions, combined with the use of materials which help to save resources and energy-optimised manufacturing processes, are the cornerstones providing the harmonious relationship between car and nature which the company strives for. The next step along this path was the consumption-optimised versions of the Škoda Fabia, Fabia Combi, Octavia and Octavia Combi which, under the name of GreenLine, form a family of their own within the model program as a whole. From the beginning, the new Škoda Superb is part of this GreenLine with the introduction of the Škoda Superb GreenLine. Especially in the case of larger cars, which in general are driven more than small and compact cars, the reduction in fuel consumption makes its effect felt positively in the providing relief for the environment.
Thanks to a whole package of measures, the Škoda Fabia Greenline achieves a CO2 emission value of 109 g/km. Here, aerodynamic changes to the bodywork, combined with an engine control system with changed characteristics and longer gearing help to reduce fuel consumption further and to protect the environment. This is further enhanced by reductions in weight and fitting the car with alloy wheels.
Pics Aplenty: Audi R8 V10 wearing a bit of red
We already know that the Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI quattro will be one of the biggest debuts at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month, and we hope we see this one on the stand rather than the silver example we saw yesterday. Bathing this 525-horsepower beauty in buckets of red paint has taken the fiery Italian passion of its Lamborghini-sourced 5.2L V10 and pinned it on the R8's sleeve. This used to be the everyday supercar, but after drinking a glass of bull sweat has grown a pair large enough to drop the "everyday" qualifier and just go with supercar. Enough waxing poetic. Check out the new high-res shots of the Audi R8 V10 in red below.
Audi A3
The Audi A3 and A3 Sportback, the premium compact models from Audi, are raising their sporty profile with a raft of improvements and an accentuated design. Innovative technologies such as the S tronic dual-clutch transmission with seven speeds and Audi magnetic ride, the suspension control system, makes for even greater driving pleasure. Its sharper, more striking design lends even greater expression to the A3 family. Additional equipment features, such as the Audi parking system at front and rear, the parking assistant and the reversible loadliner, also add to the appeal of these models. The Audi S3 developing 195 kW (265 hp) is now also available as a Sportback version, a new top model that rounds off the range. Shipping will commence in the summer, with prices starting at € 20,350.
The Audi A3 created the entirely new market segment of the premium compact car when the first-generation model made its debut in 1996. The brand with the four rings has been notably successful in that market segment and has since built 1.9 million units of the Audi A3. After four successive record-breaking years, the one millionth specimen of the second-generation A3 - which went into production in 2003 - left the assembly line just a few days ago. Audi is now solidifying its lead.
The exterior: even sportier profile
New visual details for the three-door A3 and A3 Sportback bring its stretched, sporty profile into the foreground. The front lid and fenders are more expressively styled, and the bumper and large single-frame radiator grille have been modified. A curved trim element in the headlamps known as the "wing" accentuates their technical perfection. Daytime running lights are standard features, and the optional bi-xenon headlamps incorporate LEDs. Down the sides, the highlight features are exterior mirrors with integral turn indicators, new door handles and attractive wheels.
At the tail end, the modified bumper and the lights help this car make a grand exit; the A3 Sportback now has innovative fiber optic rods arranged in a flat, continuous strip that creates an impressive optical effect in the dark. The three-door A3 has a modified tailgate with a new light edge. As a result of the design modifications, the A3 has grown by 2.5 centimeters (0.98 in) in length to 4.24 meters (166.93 in), while the sporty proportions of the Sportback remain virtually unchanged at 4.29 meters (168.90 in) in length.
The interior: sporty elegance
Inside the car, too, the designers fine-tuned the atmosphere of sporty elegance. Aluminum-look elements on the air vents, light switches and center console accentuate the premium character of the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback. The switches and controls beneath the audio system have been given a new, modern look. The instruments have black dials and red needles to reinforce the impression of precision and advanced technology, and a shift indicator displays the recommended gear in any given circumstances in the driver information system. The driver information system's display and the time, date and distance display - standard with the Ambiente and Ambition equipment lines - shows the information in high-resolution white type. The leather sport steering wheel for the Ambition line has new aluminum trim clips, and Audi can supply a flat-bottomed leather sport steering wheel for the Ambition as an option.
New inlays for the Attraction and Ambition, new colors and a wide selection of upholstery fabrics enhance the interior through their sportiness, impressive material quality and meticulous crafting. The upholstery range even includes Fine Nappa leather for the sport seats.
The A3's trunk is the roomiest in its class, at 350 to 1,080 liters (12.36 to 38.12 cubic ft.), with an even larger 370 to 1,100 liters (13.06 to 38.83 cubic ft.) on the A3 Sportback. On quattro versions the trunk floor is a few centimeters higher, to accommodate the special rear axle. A particularly ingenious feature is available for the front-wheel-drive versions - a sturdy, reversible loadliner that is a practical, easy-to-clean tray e.g. for carrying wet items, which can be removed from the car as a carrying tray. Audi can also supply the options of roof rails and a panoramic sunroof for the versatile A3 Sportback.
Powerful drive: the engines
As before, Audi is bringing the A3 and A3 Sportback onto the market with eight different engines - five gasoline and three diesel versions. Six of them are pioneering four-cylinder direct injection units with turbocharging. Their abbreviations TFSI and TDI encapsulate the strengths of Audi's engine technology - performance, high torque, dynamism, refinement and efficiency.
The 1.6 unit develops 75 kW (102 hp), the 1.4 TFSI 92 kW (125 hp), the 1.8 TFSI 118 kW (160 hp) and the 2.0 TFSI 147 kW (200 hp), while the 3.2 quattro with its six cylinders musters 184 kW (250 hp). The 1.9 TDI delivers 77 kW (105 hp) and the 2.0 TDI 103 kW (140 hp) or 125 kW (170 hp), depending on specification. Both two-liter diesel engines have been extensively reengineered - a new common rail injection system now assures ultra-refined running.
The 1.6-liter gasoline engine can also be supplied in conjunction with manual transmission for low-cost running on ethanol E 85 fuel. The diesel with an output of 77 kW (105 hp) is the power unit of the extremely efficient 1.9 TDI e version which, thanks to special fine-tuning measures, clocks up 100 kilometers on a mere 4.5 liters of diesel (52.27 mpg). Most of the other engines likewise slash fuel consumption by as much as 15 percent. The 1.8 TFSI and the technically closely related 2.0 TFSI have been frictionally optimized and have new cylinder bores, pistons and oil pumps.
High tech from Audi: the new transmissions
The range of transmissions has been extended and become even more appealing. Almost all engine versions are supplied as standard with six-speed manual transmission. The 1.6 and 1.9 TDI are outfitted with five-speed manual transmission, and the 3.2 is available exclusively with the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, now also available optionally for all engine versions. The high-tech S tronic changes gears with extreme speed and smoothness. The driver can set it to operate in a fully automatic mode or change gears manually - either at the selector lever or with the standard shift paddles on the leather sport steering wheel (from 103 kW/140 hp).
The S tronic on the six-cylinder engine, the 2.0 TFSI and the diesel versions has six speeds, whereas the 1.6, the 1.4 TFSI and the 1.8 TFSI feature a newly developed seven-speed S tronic. Both its clutches are dry-running - an innovative approach. This means that they do not need a separate oil supply, further adding to their already impressive efficiency. The seven gears are closely spaced for a sporty response, though the top gear is sufficiently high-geared to reduce the engine speed, cutting fuel consumption as a result.
The quattro versions, which put the A3 in a different league to the other players in the premium compact class, likewise have even more to offer. The all-wheel-drive system is available for five engine versions - for the 1.8 TFSI, the 2.0 TFSI, the 3.2 (as standard) and the two 2.0 TDI versions. In its latest technical form the central hydraulic multi-plate clutch responds even faster when the engine's power needs to be redistributed between the front and rear wheels. This increases stability, traction and driving pleasure for the driver.
The standard-fit dynamic suspension, too, provides safety, dynamic handling and comfort all rolled into one. The captivating precision with which the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback handle and their well-balanced character owe a great deal to elaborate concepts such as the four-link rear suspension and the efficient electromechanical power steering. There is optional sport suspension that supports the body 15 millimeters (0.59 in) lower; it is standard on the Ambition, in conjunction with 17-inch alloys. The option of acoustic glass for the windshield (standard on Ambiente) enhances occupant comfort and improves the car's acoustic behavior.
Way ahead of the competition: Audi magnetic ride
There is another new feature that puts the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback streets ahead of their challengers: The adaptive-action shock absorber control system by the name of Audi magnetic ride. This system overcomes the age-old conflict between dynamic behavior and ride comfort. The driver can choose between "Normal" and "Sport" programs by flipping a switch. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes its flow properties within milliseconds when a voltage is applied; this affects the damping characteristic, which can be varied from comfortably supple to crisply firm. Audi can supply the electronic damping control system as an option for the gasoline versions from 118 kW (160 hp) upwards, as well as for both two-liter TDI versions.
The equipment range for the Audi A3 and A3 Sportback has also been greatly extended. As before, there are three lines to choose from. Attraction is the version with compelling character; the dynamic-looking Ambition for instance includes sport seats, sport suspension and 17-inch wheels, and the luxurious Ambiente equipment line features such items as cruise control, a light and rain sensor, an interior lighting package and the new addition of a windshield with acoustic glass.
For an even more customized specification there are the S line, comprising an exterior package and a sport package, the deluxe Audi exclusive line, and the choice items available within the Audi exclusive range. On all equipment lines and engine versions for the German market, the chorus radio system with four speakers is now standard. There are also modern infotainment systems available, including the Bose Sound System; the Audi exclusive range includes a connection socket for an iPod.
The array of other new options demonstrates the high technological standard of the A3 car line. These include deluxe automatic air conditioning, adaptive light - the dynamic cornering light system - and the Audi parking system for front and rear, displaying the distance from an obstruction via the frequency of the signal emitted. Then there is the new parking assistant. Its pioneering ultrasound sensors scan the parking spaces by the roadside as the car is driven slowly past; the driver is informed in the instrument cluster if one of them is sufficiently large to back into. If the reverse gear is engaged and the accelerator pressed, the system manipulates the electromechanical steering to guide the car automatically into the space. All the driver need do is attend to the accelerator, clutch and brakes.
The further optimized Audi A3, A3 Sportback and the two S3 versions are about to go on the market; shipping of the new models will begin in the summer. In conclusion, the comprehensively improved A3 comes with an extended range of standard equipment, including the chorus radio system - all at a starting price of € 20,350.
2010 Audi S5 Cabriolet
The engine in the Audi S5 Cabriolet is a newly developed, supercharged, three-liter V6. The pressure in the 3.0 TFSI is generated by a mechanical supercharger - with impressive results: The power output tops out at 245 kW (333 hp), the torque between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm remains constant at a generous 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft). The powerful thrust and the spontaneous, aggressive response make for a fascinating driving experience. The Audi S5 Cabriolet is catapulted in 5.6 seconds from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and accelerates up to a preset top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). Yet at 9.6 liters per 100 km (24.5 US mpg), its fuel efficiency is highly impressive (preliminary values).
Standard equipment of the Audi S5 Cabriolet includes the servotronic, the seven-speed S tronic and the quattro drive system package. The sport differential is optional. A sport suspension keeps the body close to the road. The 18-inch cast aluminum wheels are equipped with 245/40 tires. The black brake calipers are emblazoned with S5 emblems. The acoustic top, xenon plus headlights, electrically adjustable sport seats with Alcantara leather upholstery, and a multifunction sport steering wheel are also standard equipment.
Diverse design features contribute to a distinctively sporty styling, including modifications at the lower front and back panels, at the air intakes and at the tailpipes. In the interior, special seat upholstery, door sill trims and inlays in matt brushed aluminum underscore the high-quality, dynamic style of the high-end model. The pointers of the instruments are illuminated white to contrast with the gray scales.
Audi A5 Cabriolet
Dynamic and wonderful to look at, the new Audi A5 Cabriolet is a real Audi, and an especially exciting one at that. The four-seater with the fabric top combines a sporty character with the fascination of open-top driving, refined comfort, and great everyday utility. Seven powerful engines, an agile suspension and a wide range of high-end options make the new Audi model the most attractive mid-range convertible. The top-of-the-line model of Audi's new family of convertibles is the Audi S5 Cabriolet. The engine of the S5 Cabriolet is the newly developed, supercharged three-liter V6 with gasoline direct injection. Prices start at EUR 37,300 for the 1.8 TFSI with 118 kW (160 hp) and six-speed manual transmission. Delivery of the first Audi A5 Cabriolet models will begin in the second quarter of 2009.
Like all open-top Audi models, the new Audi A5 Cabriolet too has a classic fabric top - which endows it with a striking silhouette of dynamic elegance. The lightweight softtop opens in 15 seconds - and closes in 17 seconds. The fully automatic open/close drive comes as standard. An acoustic top is optionally available, which reduces wind noise almost to the hardtop level.
When opened, the Audi A5 Cabriolet top folds down so effectively that very little trunk space is used up - leaving 320 liters (11.3 cu ft) of unused storage volume, clearly the best value in its field of competitors. The softtop compartment lowers itself automatically when the top is opened.
Equally useful is the fold-down rear seat backrest with the large pass-through between the luggage space and the interior, which increases the storage volume to a generous 750 liters (26.49 cu. ft.).
Automatic seat belt extenders round out the comfort in the interior. Neck-level heating is optionally available for the front seats. The optional leather seats are coated with a special layer to reduce solar heating. There is comfortable room for four persons. The refined ambiance combines with exemplary ergonomics to convey an atmosphere of sporty elegance. Ultra-high-strength steels and selective reinforcements of the body ensure maximal rigidity and crash safety.
The Audi A5 Cabriolet is being launched with three gasoline engines and two diesel engines, with power outputs ranging from 132 kW (180 hp) to 195 kW (265 hp). All five powerplants are fueled via direct injection; four of them use turbocharging. Available power trains include a six-speed manual transmission, the continuously variable multitronic, and the lightning-fast, seven-speed S tronic.
In addition to front-wheel drive, Audi also offers quattro permanent all-wheel drive for the higher-power engines. The innovative sport differential, which variably distributes the propulsive power between the rear wheels, is optionally available to make quattro even more dynamic and even safer.
Fascinating dynamics: Audi drive select
The perfect addition to this technology package is the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system, which enables the driver to chose among three different engine maps controlling the characteristics of the fuel feed, the shifting points of the seven-speed S tronic and multitronic, and the mode of operation of the servotronic steering system. If the MMI operating system is installed, a fourth, freely programmable level is also available.
Audi drive select is only available in combination with one or more of three additional technologies - the sport differential, the adaptive control for the shock absorbers, and dynamic steering. This is an additional high-tech solution: Its superposition gear varies the gear ratio as a function of the driving speed by up to 100 percent.
The new Audi A5 Cabriolet features a rich array of equipment, including 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, and an audio system with a CD player. One of the highlights among the optional equipment is the third-generation MMI operating system, which provides many attractive navigation and entertainment functions.
As the dynamic top-of-the-line model of the new production series, the Audi S5 Cabriolet occupies a very special position. Its three-liter TFSI - a V6 with turbocharger - unfolds its 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque impressively: It responds tenaciously to the throttle and delivers excellent driving performance. The quattro drive, a sport suspension with 18-inch wheels and a number of special equipment details underscore the athletic power of the Audi S5 Cabriolet.
The exterior design
The Audi A5 Cabriolet combines Audi's progressive styling with the fascination of an open-top car. The long engine hood, the sharp lines, the sweep of the shoulder contour, the elegantly curved surfaces, the large wheels, the distinctive front end, and the expressive tail all interact to create a sculptural, sensuous whole. The Audi A5 Cabriolet is 4.63 meters (15.19 ft) long and 1.85 meters (6.07 ft) wide, but only 1.38 meters (4.53 ft) tall: the sportiest proportions in its class.
The styling of the front end is dominated by the single-frame grille, which is flanked by large air intakes. The exquisite design of the headlights makes them look like technical jewels. The daytime running lights of the optional xenon plus headlights consist of LEDs. An aluminum molding lends high gloss to the windshield frame.
The looks of the tail end are sharpened by horizontal lines, broad tail lights, straight tailpipes, and a distinctly colored diffuser insert. The trunk lid bears an unobtrusive spoiler lip. The xenon plus headlight option comes complete with LED taillights, which create a distinctive light pattern.
The convertible top
The fabric top with the large glass rear window fits smoothly into the design profile. This is one of several reasons why Audi preferred it to a folding steel roof. What's more, its construction is much lighter in weight, which reduces the overall weight of the Cabriolet and lowers its center of gravity. The outer skin of the top is available in a choice of four colors, the inside in three.
The softtop consists of three layers. The intermediate layer is a cushioning pad. In the optional acoustic top, which reduces wind noise almost to hardtop level, this is replaced by a foam layer up to 15 millimeters (0.59 in) in thickness. The acoustic top comes with a ceiling light for the rear seat - a solution usually only found in the topmost convertible luxury segment.
In both versions, a hydraulic pump and four operating cylinders that move the top are actuated when a pushbutton on the central console or on the optional remote access assistant is depressed. It takes 15 seconds to open the top, 17 seconds to close it. Both actions can also be actuated while driving at up to 50 km/h (31.07 mph) - which makes driving much more comfortable.
When opened, the top is retracted underneath a fixed cover, where it is folded down into an extremely compact shape. Its storage compartment, which automatically lowers itself into the trunk space, only takes up a few centimeters in height - and only 60 liters (2.12 cu ft) of the 380 liters (13.42 cu ft) of luggage space. The remaining 320 liters (11.3 cu ft) with the top open are by far the best value among comparable vehicles. What's more, the low position of the loading lip makes loading and unloading easier. The wind deflector, which is supplied as standard, can be stored in the spare-wheel well to save space.
A very convenient feature in the Audi A5 Cabriolet are the split folding rear seat backrests. They can be easily unlocked by actuating levers in the trunk and drop automatically onto the seat cushions. The standard pass-though is 70 centimeters (27.56 in) wide. The loading space behind the front seatback is 1.76 meters (69.29 in) long, providing a total storage volume of 750 liters (26.49 cu ft).
The body
As is typical of Audi models, the A5 Cabriolet has an extremely rigid body. This is a prime reason for its precise driving performance, its high comfort level, and its maximized crash safety.
In the construction of the body-in-white, several innovative technologies are used. A prime example are the ultra-high-strength steels with their extremely high tensile strength, which Audi manufactures in-house using hot forming. The front fenders of the Audi A5 Cabriolet are made of aluminum to lower the weight and to optimize axle load distribution. An enclosed underbody improves the airflow and thereby the fuel efficiency.
A whole array of additional reinforcement parts compensates for the absence of a solid roof. They are located in the front section, in the side skirts, in the windshield frame, and in the rear section. Located between the interior and the luggage section is the rollover protection. When a rollover threatens, spring-loaded aluminum braces are raised behind the rear seat headrests. Door-mounted head and chest sidebags provide protection in the event of a lateral impact.
The interior
With its generous wheelbase of 2.75 meters (9.02 ft) and the longest interior in its class, the Audi A5 Cabriolet has plenty of room for longer trips. That's also true for the rear seats, which can be optionally divided by a center console with two cup holders.
Elegance in flowing lines, functional ergonomics, and top-quality craftsmanship are the principal characteristics of the interior - and this too is typically Audi. The teardrop-shaped settings of the instruments have already become modern classics. The centrally mounted onboard monitor is standard equipment. The formed-plastic console focuses on the driver. Flowing lines link it to the central tunnel and the door linings. If the customer has ordered either one of the two navigation systems it comes with the highly convenient MMI operating system - the best solution on the market.
The low standard seats provide excellent control and support. Using seatbelts is facilitated by electric seat belt extenders. Special solutions are available as alternatives: firm sport seats, electric seat adjustment and heating - as a separate option also for the back seats.
In the climate-controlled comfort seats, small fans and an automatic auxiliary heater ensure luxurious comfort. This option provides neck-level heating - ducts on the topside of the seatback emit warm air that keeps the back of the head and neck warm. With its three-level control, the headroom heater is also available for sport seats. It prolongs the open-air season in the Audi A5 Cabriolet.
Another special feature is provided in the optional leather upholstery: a special coating inhibits solar heating while the Cabriolet is parked in the sun with the top down. This coating reflects infrared radiation and thus lowers the surface temperature by up to 20 degrees Celsius. Audi offers a choice of several seat coverings up to and including Fine Nappa leather. Inlays come as standard in Micrometallic platinum; aluminum and three different kinds of wood are available as options.
The engines
In the propulsion system of the A5 Cabriolet too Audi has consistently relied on innovative technologies: All five engines - the two TDIs and the three gasoline engines - use direct injection. They are impressive evidence that, at Audi, efficiency and dynamics go together and are interdependent.
The most powerful gasoline engine in the Audi A5 Cabriolet is the 3.2-liter FSI. It operates with the innovative Audi valvelift system, which varies the lift of the intake valves in two stages. As a result, the gas exchange improves and the throttle can be left open more often, minimizing throttling losses - which in turn boosts the torque and the power output while reducing fuel consumption. The V6 delivers up to 195 kW (265 hp) as well as 330 Nm (243.4 lb-ft) between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. With front-wheel drive and multitronic it accelerates the Audi A5 Cabriolet in 6.9 seconds to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) - and up to a top speed of 246 km/h (152.86 mph). Its average fuel efficiency is an impressive 8.6 liters/100 km (27.35 US mpg). An optional alternative is quattro all-wheel drive, combined with the new seven-speed S tronic.
The 2.0 TFSI likewise attests to Audi's leadership position in engine design. This four-cylinder engine also uses the Audi valvelift system - but here it acts on the exhaust valves, with similar advantages as in the V6. Audi sells the two-liter turbo in two versions. In the entry-level version, which comes with front-wheel drive and multitronic, it delivers up to 132 kW (180 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) from 1,500 to 3,900 rpm. This version completes the standard sprint in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 219 km/h (136.08 mph). Average fuel efficiency is an excellent 7.4 liters per 100 km (31.79 US mpg).
The more powerful version of the 2.0 TFSI delivers 155 kW (211 hp) as well as 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 4,200 rpm. It is available with three powertrain versions: with the quattro drive package and the seven-speed S tronic, and with front-wheel drive and either multitronic or manual transmission. In the latter version the Audi A5 Cabriolet reaches 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.5 seconds and has a top speed of 241 km/h (149.75 mph). Its average fuel efficiency is an impressive 6.8 liters per 100 km (34.59 US mpg).
The two V6 TDIs also set the standards in their class. With their enormous torque and consistent running smoothness they represent the leading-edge sportiness of Audi TDI technology. The three-liter engine generates 176 kW (240 hp) and applies 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes 6.4 seconds. Top speed is 247 km/h (153.48 mph). This top-of-the-line diesel, which powers all four wheels via the seven-speed S tronic, is content with an impressive average of 6.8 liters/100 km (34.59 US mpg).
The second TDI in the program is even thriftier. The 2.7-liter powerplant with 140 kW (190 hp) and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) between 1,400 and 3,500 rpm consumes a mere 6.3 liters/100 km (37.34 US mpg). The smaller V6 diesel comes with front-wheel drive and manual transmission. It goes from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.6 seconds; 230 km/h (142.92 mph) is its top speed (preliminary values).
The transmission
Audi provides a choice of three different transmissions for the Audi A5 Cabriolet. The 2.0 TFSI with 155 kW (211 hp) comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, which excels in its short shifting travels and high operating precision. Both the two-liter engine and the 3.2 FSI are available with the multitronic continuously variable automatic transmission as an option, which combines smooth operation with high efficiency and a fuel-saving transmission ratio. For a dynamic driving style the multitronic is available with a sport program and a manual mode with eight fixed speeds.
For the more powerful version of the 2.0 TFSI and for the 3.2 FSI, the seven-speed S tronic is available as an option; in the 3.0 TDI it is standard equipment. This new high-tech dual-clutch transmission changes gears in a few hundredths of a second, and so smoothly that the driver hardly notices it. What's more, it is highly efficient and fuel-saving. The driver can let the seven-speed S tronic shift automatically or interact, if desired, via rocker switches on the steering wheel.
The seven-speed S tronic has been designed for use with the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. It is optionally available for the high-end diesel series and for the two powerful gasoline engines. The quattro drive system is dynamically designed - during normal driving it distributes the forces in a 40:60 ratio between the front and the rear. If one wheel skids, a center differential that operates purely mechanically transfers most of the power to the axle with the better traction.
The new sport differential makes the driving dynamics of the quattro drive even more fascinating. This innovative control system steplessly distributes the propulsive torques among the rear wheels depending on the driving situation.
This form of torque control makes the steering response of the Audi A5 Cabriolet even more spontaneous and direct and further improves the vehicle's stability. Transverse acceleration is further improved while understeering or oversteering is completely prevented.
The chassis
The Audi A5 Cabriolet leads its class in all relevant sporty criteria - steering response, stability and agility - yet it provides a very smooth ride. The reason for these strengths is the perfect distribution of axle loads. The front axle is located far forward in the front section - a configuration made possible by an unusual solution: the differential is mounted in front of the clutch or torque converter.
The chassis design too is technologically advanced: The front wheels are mounted on a five-link axle. The front axle support is firmly bolted to the body in order to maximize rigidity. The steering forces are transmitted to the wheels directly via the steering box, which is mounted very low within the chassis. The hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering provides a very responsive and highly precise connection to the road. Optionally available is the servotronic, which adjusts its support level to the driving speed.
The rear-wheel suspension of the Audi A5 Cabriolet is supported by a trapezoidal-link axle, which combines a smooth ride and maximum driving stability. The essential parts of both the front and the rear suspension are made of aluminum. The large brakes ensure powerful deceleration and react very precisely to the degree of pedal pressure. 16-inch or 17-inch aluminum wheels are standard, depending on the engine version. Optionally available from Audi and quattro GmbH are 18-, 19- and 20-inch wheels.
Another high-tech feature in the new Audi A5 Cabriolet is the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system. It influences the characteristics of the fuel feed, the speed change points of the seven-speed S tronic, and the operating mode of the servotronic steering system. The driver presses a key to select a comfortable, intermediate, or dynamic operating mode for these subsystems. If the vehicle is equipped with a navigation system - and the MMI operator control that comes with it - a fourth engine map is provided, which the driver can program to suit.
Audi drive select is only available in combination with one or more of three additional technologies - the differential, the adaptive shock absorber control, and dynamic steering. Its superposition gear varies the gear ratio by nearly 100 percent as a function of the driving speed. The dynamic steering operates directly in city traffic. In highway driving it uses a more indirect ratio. To maximize driving safety, it cooperates closely with the ESP stabilization program - at the handling limits it keeps the Audi A5 Cabriolet on course by lightning-fast small interactions.
The equipment
The Audi A5 Cabriolet comes with an impressive array of standard equipment. This includes a fully automatic convertible top, 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels, a fold-down rear seatback with a large pass-through, and automatic air conditioning; the chorus audio system comes with integral CD player. Electric seat belt extenders and an electromagnetic parking brake are also standard.
Further luxury is available in the options: The adaptive light option combines xenon plus headlights with dynamic cornering lights; the high-beam assistant changes automatically between low beam and high beam. The advanced key provides keyless access and allows starting the car as well as opening and closing the top remotely. The deluxe automatic air conditioning manages the temperature separately in three zones in the vehicle. The acoustic top further lowers the wind noise level. And the climate-controlled comfort seat in combination with the neck-level heating creates a perfectly tempered environment.
When it comes to the chassis, the program is complemented by the Audi drive select system, the sport differential, and two conventional sport suspensions. The S line sport package plus combines the stiff set-up with performance features such as 10 millimeters less body height, 18-inch wheels and 245/40 tires with a package of special details for the interior. The S line exterior package, on the other hand, endows the vehicle with an especially dynamic look.
Further highlights are the two infotainment systems MMI navigation and MMI navigation plus - members of an entirely new equipment generation. Even the lesser model includes navigation imaging featuring 3D color graphics, a versatile reader for memory cards, and a DVD drive. Optionally available from Audi is a module for digital radio reception, a Bluetooth interface for the mobile phone, and an interface for full integration of the iPod.
The top version comes with exclusive technologies: an especially high-definition monitor, a big hard drive for music files and addresses, plus a special joystick function for the MMI control unit. With refinements such as a Bang & Olufsen sound system or a digital TV tuner, the MMI navigation plus can be turned into a high-end media center.
Innovative assistant systems from the luxury class make driving in the Audi A5 Cabriolet even more supremely relaxed. Audi optionally equips its open-top four-seater with high-tech solutions including adaptive cruise control, Audi side assist and Audi lane assist. They control the distance from the vehicle in front and assist in staying in lane or in changing lanes. The luxury-class Audi parking system advanced uses a rearview camera to display the area behind the vehicle on the onboard monitor.
2009 MINI Clubman John Cooper Works
The JCW edition is available on both the standard MINI hardtop and the extra-length Clubman. Having a JCW MINI means you have opted for the fastest factory MINI ever built. We spent a week with a John Cooper Works MINI Clubman in the Autoblog Garage just as winter weather clamped down on Michigan. Find out how this maximum fared in wintry Motown after the jump.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Toyota Hybrid X Concept
Toyota presents a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show with the reveal of Hybrid X - a concept car that proposes a new design language for hybrid models, while also acting as an innovative technology showcase for future generation hybrid cars.
Hybrid X is a vision for future environmentally friendly motoring. It fits clearly within Toyota's environmental strategy of offering sustainable mobility for modern families. Hybrid X further extends the use of Hybrid Synergy Drive® which is becoming an enabler for vehicle concept innovation and allowing Toyota to push forward to new frontiers.
Hybrid X is designed as a four door, four seat open-space concept. It has the dimensions of a conventional family car with an overall length of 4,500mm and wheelbase of 2,800mm. The width is 1,850mm and height 1,440mm.
Hybrid X has been created and developed by Toyota's European styling centre, ED², in the south of France. It proposes unconventional creative solutions that will themselves potentially become the signature points of a specific hybrid identity.
Hybrid X follows the core values of the Toyota brand design philosophy under two consistent themes: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japaneseinspired design and cultural form, while Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor. Through Vibrant Clarity, designers will infuse future vehicles with a completely original identity and emotional intensity that will be uniquely identifiable as coming from Toyota.
In this context, designers created an unconventional fusion of strength, lightness and emotion through the futuristic body shape. There is fusion of thought also - a symbiosis between the exterior and the interior so that, as you look at the exterior, you can imagine the interior with clarity and vision.
Interior designer, Laurent Bouzige, says: "Hybrid X is conceived as a multi-sensory experience. There is a formal style in the shape of the vehicle and the material used but every other reaction is linked to the passengers' senses of sound, smell, sight and touch through interactive ambience."
The strongest form element of the exterior shape is the two 'U' shapes created by the massive upper glass frame area and the unconventional A and C pillars. When viewed from above this gives the impression of a vast X - hence the name of the concept, Hybrid X.
The U-shaped pillars allow the general shape of Hybrid X to achieve a superior aerodynamic form which is further enhanced by smooth surface lines and the integrated rear spoiler.
At the same time the glass area greatly enhances visibility to create an 'open-space' concept which "frames the vision" in all directions, including up.
Access and innovation are features of the rear-hinged passenger doors which open electronically at the touch of a button. Dynamic hints of driving performance are provided by the customised 20-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 225/40 R20 tyres.
The smooth, aerodynamic lines of the front are unbroken by headlamps which are integrated into the dashboard and are now part of the interior of the car. These LED lamps are 'intelligent' and display graphic forms through animation, adopting the interactive concept of Hybrid X to communicate safety information to pedestrians or other drivers, such as safety distances, acceleration and braking.
Across the rear the energy-efficient LED lights form another U shape, reflecting the design signature of vehicle as a whole.
Fusion between exterior and interior styling is clear from the swooping curves of the interior surfaces. Here there are classic ergonomic solutions and the multi-sensory experience is most keenly developed as the car responds to human interaction. The human element is further emphasised by an artistic drawing printed on the inside door panel.
The driver can set the ambience within the car via an interface in order to control the four senses of sight, sound, touch and smell. LED lighting systems within the car provide a variety of illumination and are changing in harmony with different musical backgrounds. A perfume diffuser fills the air with gentle, relaxing aroma while the use of many different materials and textures on the interior surfaces provides variety to touch.
The drive-by-wire steering pad features a screen in its centre to relay vital energy information to the driver about the energy flow path, fuel consumption, gear position. Interactive navigation and Bluetooth connectivity is provided by a second screen in front of the driver.
A third touch screen, in the console, controls the ambience settings, such as the entertainment and audio systems, lightning operation and air conditioning. A sensitive touch on the steering pad allows the driver to switch information on the screens.
Space saving seats are formed using injected foam techniques which create comfort while reducing weight. In order to further promote human interaction, the two independent rear seats can swivel by 12 degrees to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery or a more intimate 'tête-à-tête'.
For now, it is clear Hybrid X is an innovative vehicle that conceives how Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology can deliver economical, cleaner and more comfortable motoring. It is a step closer to Toyota's vision of the ultimate environmental driving technology and its design will influence the entire Toyota brand and its hybrid models in the future.
Car News: Chevy Camaro Gets Full Line of Performance Parts and Accessories
The key word for the Chevy Camaro is heritage. And with this offering by GM's Performance Parts division, the Chevy brand restores a little of the romance that helped make the Camaro one of the icons of American car culture.
The list of tuning options is long and includes both interior and exterior trim kits, from cabin design to classic stripe kits in various colors. What stands out are the rally and hockey stick-style strip options which evoke the past (yet another 70s-referencing design cue) while keeping the contemporary Camaro relevant in the marketplace today simply by its boldness alone.
Also on offer here are some performance goodies for under the hood and beyond. It includes air box and exhaust kits for both the V6 and V8 engines to improve performance and accentuate sound. And the real kicker, a short-throw shifter developed with Hurst with the classic styling of that well-know parts maker.
No details on pricing or performance boosting are available but the pics tell their own story.
Source: GM via World Car Fans
Toyota Land Cruiser
Toyota strives to build vehicles to match customer interest and thus they typically are built with popular options and option packages. Not all options/packages are available separately and some may not be available in all regions of the country. If you would prefer a vehicle with no or different options, contact your dealer to check for current availability or the possibility of placing a special order.
Toyota Land Cruisers are designed to meet most off-road driving requirements. Abusive use may result in bodily harm or damage. Toyota encourages responsible operation to protect you, your vehicle and the environment.
Some vehicles are shown with available equipment. Seatbelts should be worn at all times. Please do not allow passengers to ride in the cargo area. Towing hitch receivers/ball mount kits are not intended to provide crash protection.
For details on vehicle specifications, standard features and available equipment in your area, contact your Toyota dealer. A vehicle with particular equipment may not be available at the dealership. Ask your Toyota dealer to help locate a specifically equipped vehicle.
All information presented herein is based on data available at the time of posting, is subject to change without notice and pertains specifically to mainland U.S.A. vehicles only.
Toyota iQ
The final production version of the revolutionary Toyota iQ makes its debut at the 2008 Paris motor show. Last seen as a near-final design at the Geneva show earlier this year, iQ is a city car that is so innovative that - like the Toyota Prius - it stands as a major milestone for future vehicle development.
The radical thinking behind Toyota iQ turns conventional car design on its head. Toyota engineers went to extraordinary lengths to redesign, re-engineer or relocate components to achieve their goal of a car that is less than three metres long, yet has four seats inside with no compromise on space, comfort or driving fun.
Toyota iQ redefines what a car should be in today's era of congested cities and increased environmental awareness, not least by achieving carbon dioxide emissions levels that start at 99g/km. At the same time it is fun to drive with outstanding dynamics and advanced powertrain technology.
Hiroki Nakajima, Toyota iQ chief Engineer, explains: "For the development of iQ my research for a design concept befitting a stylish and small, sophisticated car began by envisioning the customer. My theory was that the group of people most suited to this car's style, small size and premium edge would be described as 'post-modern' - people who demonstrate independence in their choice of lifestyle and values."
Toyota iQ can be ordered from now, with delivery taking place in January 2009. Full-year sales volume for Europe is expected to be around 80,000 units.
DESIGN
Five years ago Toyota launched a programme to radically improve vehicle packaging, focusing on breakthrough solutions for miniaturising key vehicle features. The outcome of this project formed the basis for the development of Toyota iQ.
The objective was a new kind of city car, one that would accommodate four people within an overall length of less than three metres. The result was a landmark solution that will have a long term influence on Toyota's future vehicle development. Toyota iQ is the ultimate expression of refined, yet environmentally efficient urban mobility.
The extraordinary interior space in a car that measures just 2,985mm long, 1,500mm high and 1,680mm wide is a tribute to the determination and ingenuity of Toyota's design and engineering team.
The fact it can carry four people (three adults plus a child) in comfort and safety at motorway speeds, is just the beginning of the story. Starting with a clean sheet of paper, Toyota has created an ingenious and distinctive new city car. And with its proportionally large, 2,000mm wheelbase, Toyota iQ has a compact yet muscular stance that is like no other car.
Toyota iQ's design represents the essence of Toyota's J-factor heritage, which embraces the finest elements of Japanese aesthetics, such as miniaturisation and modernism. Most importantly it brings contradictory elements into harmony, such as "small yet spacious" or "hi-tech yet human".
J-factor is the foundation of Toyota's Vibrant Clarity design philosophy, through which long-standing paradoxes are resolved, such as how to create vehicles that are energised and dynamic, but at the same time rational and ingenious.
One of the three key elements of Vibrant Clarity is Freeform Geometrics, which can be seen in Toyota iQ's techno-organic design, for example, in the "manta ray" styling of the centre console.
On the outside another element comes into play - "Perfect Imbalance of Proportions". Large wheels are placed at the extreme corners of the vehicle to give a robust stance that belies the car's compact size.
True to J-factor aesthetic minimalism, Toyota iQ will be available from launch in three exterior colours: White Pearl Metallic, Black Metallic and Amethyst Metallic (more colours will be available later).
SIX INNOVATIONS PRODUCE A BREAKTHROUGH IN VEHICLE PACKAGING
Toyota iQ's remarkable interior volume is down to its comparatively long 2,000mm wheelbase and short overhangs - 530mm at the front and 455mm at the rear. Interior length from the rear end of the instrument panel to the hip point of the rear seats is an impressive 1,238mm. To achieve this breakthrough, six space-saving engineering innovations were developed.
Integrating the front-mounted differential in a conventional transmission layout allowed Toyota iQ to be built with an ultra-short front overhang. This reduced overall length while at the same time increasing the length of the passenger compartment. Ingeniously this not only reduces the amount of space required for the engine compartment, it also allows the large diameter front wheels to be positioned at the far corners of the vehicle. This shortens the overhangs, which in turn improves stability and manoeuvrability.
Employing centre take-off steering gear and placing it higher in the engine bay means the transmission, engine and differential could be repositioned. The engine compartment could then be made considerably smaller, further reducing the front overhang.
Traditionally fuel tanks are located underneath a car's rear seats. By making the tank flat, reducing it to just 120mm in height and solving the problems of rapidly changing fuel surface levels that such a design would normally create, the tank could be relocated under the floor. Toyota iQ's fuel tank has a 32-litre capacity, giving an ample driving range. Angling the rear shock absorbers backwards allows interior rear space to be increased.
The slimness of the seatbacks frees up an extra 40mm of rear passenger room at knee height. The seats weigh up to 30 per cent less than conventional ones, contributing to overall fuel efficiency and low emissions. Using extruded pipe materials rather than high tensile sheet steel ensures the structure is rigid. The slimmer designs, with integrated headrests, save space without sacrificing comfort or safety.
Reducing the size of the heater and air conditioning unit by 20 per cent compared to the Toyota Yaris allowed the engineers to make significant space savings without compromising performance. This means the blower unit, usually found in front of the front passenger, could be integrated with the main ventilation unit in a central position. This innovation allowed the front passenger area to be moved forward, freeing up cabin space and increasing leg room.
The innovative asymmetric dashboard was designed to open up the whole cabin area. It ensures ample leg room for the front passenger, even when the seat is in its furthest forward position. The sliding seat configuration allows an adult 190cm tall to sit comfortably in the rear seat behind a front passenger of the same height. Shoulder-to-shoulder distance between driver and front passenger is 50mm wider than in Yaris and bears comparison with a C-segment vehicle. The all-round space and seating layout means there is ample room for three adults plus either a child passenger or luggage behind the driver.
ENGINEERED FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE
Toyota iQ represents the successful outcome of Toyota's well-established drive to reduce the environmental impact of its vehicles without compromising performance and driving dynamics. With CO2 emissions as low as 99g/km (with manual transmission), it is clearly a city car that's in the right place at the right time.
Its innovative, aerodynamic packaging has been achieved through a low overall height, low centre of gravity and wheels pushed out to the four corners of the car. This gives agility at low speed and unprecedented stability for a small car on motorways and winding roads. A minimum turning radius of 3.9 metres further enhances its nimble handling, even in tight city streets.
Toyota iQ is built on a new platform with MacPherson strut front suspension and a newly developed compact rear torsion beam. Together these provide dynamic handling with high degree of ride comfort. The suspension is fine tuned to let the car hug corners at speed, without losing stability.
Toyota iQ engines and transmissions have been developed under the Toyota Optimal Drive philosophy of delivering extremely low fuel consumption and emissions without compromising on power or driving pleasure.
At launch one engine will be available: a 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol unit with a choice of five-speed manual or a new Multidrive CVT system.
1.0-litre VVT-i engine
The 1.0-litre VVT-i petrol engine, winner of the 2008 Engine of the Year award in the sub-1.0-litre class, is a lightweight, three-cylinder unit, producing 67bhp (68 Din hp) at 6,000rpm and 91Nm of torque at 4,800rpm. Combined with a high-ratio five-speed manual transmission, it returns 65.7mpg in combined cycle driving and 99g/km of carbon dioxide (figures provisional prior to final homologation). This keeps Toyota iQ under the UK's 100g/km threshold for Vehicle Excise Duty, a benchmark that is also used for tax purposes in other major European markets, too. Specified with Multidrive transmission, the engine emits 110g/km of CO2 (provisional figure).
Multidrive transmission
Multidrive uses Toyota's latest continuously variable transmission (CVT) technology to give a very smooth shift feel while optimising the balance between performance and fuel economy. It continuously monitors and selects the most appropriate gear ratio and shifting speed, automatically eliminating "shift shock" or jumps while changing gear. It maximises engine torque without unnecessary acceleration and smoothes gear ratio changes, for example limiting uphill shifts and making downhill shifts to achieve optimum engine brake force. The system provides all the city-friendly characteristics of a conventional automatic gearbox.
Models equipped with Multidrive feature an ECO driving indicator lamp on the multi-information display. This encourages more economical driving by signalling when fuel is being saved and, consequently, emissions are reduced. Current and average fuel consumption are also permanently on display.
Gear shift indicator
Models with manual transmission are equipped with a gear shift indicator which shows the driver when to change up or down a gear to achieve the best environmental performance. The system takes driving conditions, accelerator pedal pressure and vehicle speed into account and can return fuel consumption savings of between 0.5 and three per cent compared to normal gear shifting, depending on individual driver habits.
Future developments
A new 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i petrol engine with Stop & Start technology will be available in Toyota iQ later in 2009. A 1.4 D-4D diesel will be offered from launch in some European markets, but is not scheduled for introduction in the UK.
Many of Toyota iQ's innovations will be adapted and evolved for future Toyota models. The car is a major milestone in Toyota's environmental commitment and efforts to develop technologies for much lower emissions. It is an essential part of Toyota's challenge to achieve the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association's (JAMA) voluntary commitment of 140g/km average fleet emissions by 2009.
OUTSTANDING ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY
Toyota iQ benefits from sophisticated active and passive safety technology to protect driver, passengers and pedestrians, with a range of breakthrough features rarely seen in small vehicles.
ABS integrated with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) is standard on all models. Steering assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) combined with Traction Control (TRC) is also provided across the range and incorporates Electric Power Steering Control to minimise the risk of under- or oversteer.
The new braking system has 255mm front discs and 180mm drums. For collision safety and "braking feel", a link-type brake pedal is fitted.
The high strength body has a multi-load path structure to efficiently absorb and disperse impact forces. Designed by Toyota, it increases occupant protection in a frontal collision through six strategic elements to absorb and redistribute impact energy, including the suspension side rail and cross members, dashboard cross member, and front tyres located as far forward as possible.
The shape and height of the bonnet and a collapsible cowl construction are designed to deform in an impact to mitigate potential pedestrian injury.
All models are fitted with nine airbags. The passenger front airbag has a twin-chamber design with a lower pressure inflator to bridge the space between the passenger and the dashboard.
The driver has a knee airbag, which, because of the short steering column, can be positioned closer to the driver's knees, reducing deployment time and the amount of inflation required. On the front passenger side there is an innovative seat cushion airbag that works with the seatbelts to reduce and disperse force to the head, chest and upper body. This airbag is more effective in restraining hip movement than conventional knee airbags, given Toyota iQ's asymmetrical dashboard design.
Protection from side impacts is provided by two front side airbags, designed to restrain the chest and pelvis at the same time. Two side curtain shield airbags protect all four occupants from side impact to the head and neck.
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelts are fitted to all seats, with additional pretensioners and force-limiters for the driver and front passenger.
World-first rear window airbag
Toyota iQ marks a world-first breakthrough with a rear window curtain shield airbag. This deploys from the roof lining behind the rear headrests to protect occupants in a rear-end collision.
Isofix child seat anchors are fitted to the rear seats. A high tensile strength steel seat frame construction with integrated headrests provide driver and front passenger with collision safety and whiplash protection performance equal to Toyota's latest active headrest systems.
With its 360-degree safety approach, Toyota aims to fulfil Euro NCAP's five-star rating for occupant protection.
ASPIRATIONAL EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATION
In line with its innovative design and high quality finish, it will offer as standard a number of premium features for added style, comfort and convenience, setting it apart from more conventional and modestly specified models in the city car segment.
Two grades will be available - a standard trim and a premium upgrade version. Key features will include (according to grade) alloy wheels, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors with integrated turn indicators, automatic air conditioning, privacy glass, Smart Entry and Start system, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.
To add even more lustre to their Toyota iQ, owners will be offered a full range of dedicated accessories.
Ferrari Monza Goes Fast, Features an Autopilot
We’re dealing with a Ferrari that allows its driver to sit in a cockpit, just like the one of a Formula 1 car and control the vehicle at lower speeds. However, if you go past 200 km/h or so, the computer takes control and you’ll be back to playing Halo 5 while driving or whatever game will be a hit in the remote future.
Passing to the chassis, this supercar can change shape for better aerodynamics and a reduction of friction, so you won’t take off. The 2 “fins” are used for air circulation and to give the ride a meaner look.
[via Yanko Design]
Car News: Wagoner Heading to Bailout Hearing in Chevy Volt Prototype
The mule will be outfitted with the body of a Chevy Cruze but it will be equipped with the powertrain from the highly anticipated Chevy Volt. GM hopes this will send an important message to members of Capital Hill, stating in essence that a key part of the company's turn around plan will be based on new vehicles that will feature advanced technologies and improved fuel economy.
After last months public relations nightmare where CEO's from the big three took private jets to Washington DC to ask for a 25 billion dollar government loan package, General Motor's CEO Rick Wagoner has decided to forgo the first class accommodations for a Chevy Volt mule.
During GM's presentation the company will showcase the technology behind the Volt in an effort to explain to the Senators that the company's viability will be based on new energy saving technologies. With GM's plan to cut costs and focus on four core brands, the company is hoping Congress will approve their request for $18 billion in government loans.
Source:World Car Fans
Ferrari Aurea, a 360 Modena Successor Created by DGF Design
Aurea can reach a top speed of 325 km/h and its displacement is 3998 cc, as for the dimensions, they look something like this:
Length: 4476 mm
Width: 1968 mm
Height: 1150 mm
Weight: 1250 kg
[via Diseno-Art]
Chevrolet Camaro Convertible: design story
 |  |
They give some insights on the design development process, from the original brief given to GM's Advanced Design Studio in California to some previews about the production model, which is expected to arrive in 2009-2010 and should retain most of the concept's features, both in the coupé and convertible variants.
 |  |
After the official standard studio shots, these images show the Camaro Convertible in a real environment, quite appropriate for an open-top sportscar.
 |  |  |
More pictures can be found on Autoblog's gallery, which includes some exclusive photos by Jim Fets.
A video with an interview with Micah Jones by Matt Kelly and with some driving footages is available on PodTech.net.
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
(Source: Autoblog.com, Chevrolet)
Ferrari Motorcycle Concept is a Red Dream!
You may notice the presence of those cool looking hand controls… Well, they’re inspired by the “throttle quadrant of a F16 jet fighter”.
The above-mentioned PC helps control the suspensions of the vehicle, the driving mode and the tech stuff doesn’t end here, as this Ferrari bike’s got an anti theft device incorporated plus radio and GPS. On the motorcycle’s display you’ll be able to monitor all liquids and temperatures, so you’ll keep it safe, while keeping it sci-fi and cool.
More shots of the Ferrari concept motorcycle below!
[via Yanko Design]
2009 Audi A7 Spy Photos
Audi of Ingolstadt will release this fall a concept car for the upcoming new Audi A7. Although the production version is not expected to be due before 2009 - first mules of the four door coupe have been sighted taking repeated laps at Germany's race track Nürburgring. The prototype can be distinguished from its wider fenders, bigger tyres and expensive alloy wheels - painted black. The production car will get a luxury style four seat interior, frameless doors, a glass roof, and offer a choice of six different fuel and diesel V6 and V8 engines, and for the top of the line version, the Lamborghini V10.
This new model by Audi will be aimed directly at the competing Mercedes CLS, which became a best seller recently, due to the fact that Daimler-Chrysler is still the only one with this type of car on the market.
Therefore, not only Audi but also Jaguar and Volkswagen are striving to get a rival up and going as soon as possible. Jaguar's version will be the upcoming XJ replacement and Volkswagen is developing a Passat-based coupe with four frameless doors as well.
The photos are showing: two computer images giving an artist's impression of how the new A 7 could look like upon its release and two pictures of a prototype mule at Nürburgring.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Feature: Is the Lexus LF-A really the new SC?
Last week, when Edmund’s Inside Line blog printed a rumor that the production version of the Lexus LF-A could cost upwards of $225,000 USD, the backlash was instant and ruthless. Auto enthusiasts everywhere bristled at the idea that Lexus would be pitting their new supercar against the likes of Ferrari and Lamborghini.
To be quite honest, it’s not difficult to see some merit to the criticism. After all, the competition in this price range are truly aspirational cars, the kind of machines that fuel childhood dreams. Up against that, the LF-A is a hard sell. What’s more, it’s impossible to ignore the appeal of exclusivity, and having to share a badge with a $30,000 entry class model doesn’t really mesh with that.
Looking at the uphill battle facing Lexus selling a supercar, maybe it’s time to wonder about other motives. It could be that the brand wants to simply wants a halo car, but what if it’s something else entirely? What if that wasn’t the plan at all?
Over the past few months, I’ve had a growing suspicion that the LF-A is actually the next SC sports coupe, and that the only way it would come close to $225,000 is with a fully loaded V10 SC-F.
The first indication was a small detail on the LF-A Roadster concept shown at this year’s Detroit auto show, an F badge:
2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback coming to U.S. in GTS and Ralliart models only
New EPA documentation for the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback shows that the new Lancer model will come to the U.S. only in Ralliart and GTS variants with two engine choices.
The new 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart will be powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged unit pumping out a total of 237-hp with a maximum torque of 253 lb-ft. Power is transferred to the wheels via Mitsubishi’s Twin Clutch SST transmission allowing for a EPA rated fuel-economy of 17/25 mpg (city/highway).
The Lancer Sportback GTS will be available with a 2.4L 4-cylinder with a choice of a 5-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission with an EPA rated fuel-economy of 20/27 mpg and 21/27 mpg respectively
No comments:
Post a Comment