CREWE, England : December 8, 2009 - The new Continental Supersports, the first Bentley to use FlexFuel technology which enables it to run on E85 biofuel, gasoline or any combination of these two fuels, has further underlined its green credentials by meeting the 85% recyclability standard (95% for recoverability) demanded of all the Bentley Continental range.



In May 2009 Bentley received the official recycling pre-certification (in accordance with the EU Directive 2005/64/EG) from the German Motor Transport Authority (KBA) – thereby becoming one of the first luxury car manufacturers to attain this standard.

Type approval then followed from TÜV, the independent testing and certification service supplier, and now, with the addition of the Continental Supersports to this certification, the entire Bentley Continental range meets this exacting standard. The certificate, which is only awarded after detailed independent scrutiny of the car, assures the fact that virtually all the Continental’s materials can be reused or reprocessed by other industries.

The Crewe-built Supercar, which is now arriving in Bentley showrooms, is the most extreme production car in the company’s 90-year history. Capable of reaching 204 mph (329km/h), it is also the lightest road-going Bentley having shed some 110kg through a broad programme of weight reduction involving the innovative use of new materials such as carbon ceramics and carbon fibre.

The achievement of this certification is testament to the endeavours of the Bentley engineering team as Dr. Arno Homburg, Head of Whole vehicle Development at Bentley Motors said:

“Producing the fastest Bentley was a challenge in itself. However, we were equally determined not to sacrifice any environmental aspect in pursuit of this goal. The result is the paradox that the most extreme Bentley ever, is also the greenest”.

The Supersports is the first iteration of the environmental strategy Bentley launched at the Geneva Motor Show in 2008. Powered by gasoline, E85 biofuel or any combination of these two fuels, the Supersports can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 70% on a well-to-wheel basis.

It is one element of a broader Bentley strategy which will see by 2012 the company’s average fleet CO₂ emissions reduced by 15% and the introduction of a new powertrain that will by itself deliver a 40% reduction in fuel consumption. This programme is also supported at the Bentley factory where the use of gas, electricity and water have all been reduced significantly despite Bentley achieving record levels of production in recent years.

A genuine two-seater, the Supersports takes Bentley into new market sectors. It has received an overwhelmingly positive media reaction and is now attracting keen customer interest. Its Flexfuel capability ensures that is fuelled for the future and, with this latest recyclability certification, customers can be assured that every effort has been taken to consider the environmental impact of all components over the entire life of the car. As Dr Homburg adds:

“It is part of our responsibility as a car maker to contribute to environmental improvements and with Supersports you can see an evolution of this thinking. Even though Bentleys last a very long time – nearly 70% of all cars ever made are still on the road or in collections - we have still sought to ensure any environmental impact is minimised. The wide use of natural materials such as wood and leather and the craftsmanship inherent in their use naturally favours us here.”



[Source : BENTLEY]
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The Duster project was born out of the simple premise that a real need existed in the world for a comfortable, strong and affordable 4x4, a category of vehicle which is currently not well served. Aware of this gap, the Renault group decided to develop an all-terrain vehicle aimed initially at emerging markets. The needs of European customers were also taken into account from the very start of the project.

• In emerging markets (Russia, Brazil, etc.), the middle classes aspire to owning a modern car that reflects their social status. At the same time, they want a strong car that is reliable, versatile and capable of standing up to climatic demands and conditions that can be both tough and varied (long distances, rugged, difficult terrain, use in built-up areas, often within large conurbations, etc.). The current offer is largely dominated by imported SUVs, which are often priced beyond the means of these middle classes.
• 
  
• In Europe, Dacia's success has highlighted the demand for modern, reliable and affordable cars. Although the current range of 4x4s and SUVs is quite extensive, it neglects the call for a functional, affordable all-terrain vehicle, favouring instead showy SUVs that are expensive and often ill-suited to the needs of all-terrain motoring.

DACIA DUSTER, EVERYTHING A 4x4 SHOULD BE

Indisputable 4x4 looks…

At first glance, Dacia Duster is clearly a 4x4. Its front end exudes a sense of ruggedness, and the wide wheel arches, imposing chromed grille and sump guard all point to Dacia Duster 4x4 credentials. Seen from the side, its high ground clearance, clearly-defined wheel arches and body protection are an open invitation to take on even
the toughest roads and tracks.

Today's all-terrain vehicles are often synonymous with bulk, a preconception which Dacia Duster sweeps aside. Standing at a length of just 4.31 metres and a width of 1.82 metres, Dacia Duster is very compact, making it as at home in built-up areas as it is when taken off the beaten track. Although it clearly demonstrates that it belongs to the world of all-terrain motoring, Dacia Duster boasts attractive, yet unostentatious lines.

…with genuine go-anywhere ability

Dacia Duster was designed to tackle all types of roads and tracks, all over the world. In order to meet these varied needs, Dacia Duster will be available in all markets in both 4x2 form (for customers looking for high ground clearance, high driving position but who have no real need for a four-wheel drive daily driver) and with 4x4 transmission for off-road driving.

Dacia Duster's strengthened underside is suitable for dirt roads and all-terrain use thanks to its high ground clearance (more than 200mm) and big clearance angles (approach angle: 30 degrees; departure angle: more than 35 degrees).

Dacia Duster is easy to drive and not only aimed at all-terrain aficionados. The combination of its low unladen weight (1.180kg in 4X2 - 1,280kg in 4X41) and compact proportions ensure particularly agile handling. In the 4X4 version, thanks to the unique and intuitive control (sourced from Nissan) located in the cabin at the foot of the
central column, Dacia Duster drivers can easily adapt the vehicle's transmission configuration to meet their needs of the moment. This control allows one of three modes to be selected:

When the AUTO mode is selected, the front/rear torque split is calculated automatically as a function of available grip. This system is aimed at providing optimal traction, however much grip is available, and gives Dacia Duster genuine 4x4 ability. In normal conditions, the torque is transmitted through the front wheels only. If traction is lost, or when grip is at a premium, some of the torque is transferred to the rear axle. In extreme conditions, the torque is split equally front and rear. This split is performed by an electromagnetic torque converter supplied by Nissan.

• In LOCK mode, the driver electronically locks it into 4x4 mode, whereby 50 per cent of torque is consistently fed through the rear axle. This mode is recommended in low grip conditions (snow, mud, dirt, sand) at low speeds.
• In 4x2 mode, the transmission is locked into two-wheel drive. This mode is suited to driving on good roads and reduces fuel consumption.

A DACIA 4x4 WHICH DELIVERS ALL THE STRENGTHS EXPECTED OF THE BRAND

Duster, the sixth vehicle in the Dacia range, remains true to the brand's philosophy by offering unbeatable cabin space for its price, plus low running costs thanks to its thrifty fuel consumption, as well as a high standard of security and reliability whatever the conditions.

Unbeatable cabin space for its price

Although Dacia Duster's price is comparable with that of a city car, its exterior and interior dimensions are more akin to those of a compact car from the next segment up.

Dacia Duster comfortably seats up to five adults. Both front and rear occupants enjoy the same amount of space as Dacia Logan passengers.

Dacia Duster's boot capacity is unbeatable, too, with a volume of up to 475dm3 ISO (depending on version).

With the rear benchseat folded and tipped forward, Dacia Duster offers impressive carrying ability which can exceed 1,600dm3 ISO.

Reliable engines with good fuel economy and low CO2 emissions

Both the 4x2 and 4x4 versions of Dacia Duster will be available with either a 1.6 16V 110hp petrol engine or with 85 dCi or 105 dCi diesel power. All three powerplants have already demonstrated their efficiency under the bonnet of a number of Renault group models.

These engines are perfectly suited to the criteria of cost, strength and ease of maintenance that are a hallmark of the Dacia range. Combined with Duster's low weight, they ensure that Dacia's newcomer returns low fuel consumption and boasts impressive ecological credentials, with the dCi diesel versions emitting less than 140g of CO2/km in 4x2 form (qualifying Duster for the Dacia eco? signature) and less than 150g of CO2/km in the case of the 4x4 versions.

Safety: an absolute priority

Dacia Duster benefits from Renault's acclaimed expertise in the area of safety.

Dacia's 4x4 features Bosch 8.1 ABS, as well as EBV electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist.

On the passive safety front, Dacia Duster comes as standard with two front airbags (depending on market) and three-point seat belts with load limiters for the front seats. Depending on version, two lateral head/thorax airbags are fitted in addition to the driver and passenger front airbags to provide additional protection in the case of an impact from the side. Pyrotechnic pretensioners for the front seats (depending on version) complete Dacia Duster's retention system. In addition to holding the thorax firmly in place, they limit forward movement of the body in the case of a frontal impact by tightening the belt around the thorax and the lap.

Reliability and strength: Dacia fundamentals

Like all the vehicles based on the B0/Logan platform, Dacia Duster has been engineered to deliver the hallmark strength and reliability motorists have come to expect of the brand.

Particular attention has been paid to anti-corrosion protection thanks to several precautions:

• wax-injected underbody and opening panel hollow sections,
• mastic sealing of exterior joints,
• additional wax treatment of underbody mechanical components,
• stone-chip protection for underbody, sills and wheel arches.

Similar care has been paid to the electrics and electronics, with an installation already seen on several Renault models.

To back up its high build quality, Dacia Duster comes with a three-year or 100,000km warranty in the majority of its European markets.

A TRULY INTERNATIONAL CALLING

Duster is a truly international vehicle, both in terms of its markets and its production. It will gradually become available across the world, following the example of Logan and Sandero.

Dacia Duster to be released in the brand's main markets from the spring of 2010

Dacia Duster will be launched in the spring of 2010 in Europe, Turkey and the Maghreb region (Algeria, Morocco).

It will round off the Dacia model line-up, which is expanding in the majority of these markets. In addition to the three vehicles aimed at the private sector (Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero), Dacia has staked its claim, too, in the LCV sector with Logan van and Logan pick-up.

From June 2010, Duster will also be available in the Ukraine, the Middle East (Israel, Jordan, Syria, Egypt and Lebanon) and in some African countries badged as a Renault.

The Pitesti factory, which is the principal production facility for Entry-range models, will supply all these markets with both Dacia- and Renault- badged versions. The Romanian plant has an annual production capacity of 350,000 vehicles and will continue to produce the brand's other models.

Renault Duster in Russia, Brazil and the Gulf States in 2011

Duster will expand into other parts of the world in 2011. It will be distributed in the Gulf States, supplied from Pitesti, and will also be built alongside Logan, Sandero and Sandero Stepway in Curitiba, Brazil, for distribution in Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Chile. At a later date, Duster will go on to be manufactured at the Avtoframos plant
in Moscow, Russia.



[Source : RENAULT-DACIA]
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WOLFSBURG : December 8, 2009 - Volkswagen is extending its Tiguan model range with a special edition: the Tiguan Track & Avenue. High-end materials predominate in its interior; on the exterior subtle body modifications and 19-inch alloy wheels round out its sporty look. This new special model of the popular SUV can be ordered now.



The new Tiguan Track & Avenue rides on standard 19-inch “Savannah” alloy wheels, and it offers a price advantage of over 2,000 Euros when all of its elegant and stylish features are considered. Two special exterior colours are being offered on this very expressive off-roader: “Oryx White Pearl Effect” and “Island Grey Pearl Effect”. The package also includes a 25 degree off-road front end, modest wheel flares and a silver-coloured diffuser.


The first-class equipment continues in the interior. The new Tiguan Track & Avenue has exclusive leather upholstery - “Heavy Waxy” in Amaranth - whose softness and durability make it one of the highest grade leathers. In addition, there are sport seats, an RCD 510 radio with Dynaudio sound system, “Climatronic” climate control and a leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel with coloured seams. The package is rounded out with front fog lights and Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic curve lighting.

The Tiguan Track & Avenue can be ordered in four engine-transmission combinations, all of them with a 6-speed gearbox. For example, the 2.0 TSI engine (147 kW / 200 PS) may be combined with a manual or automatic transmission. Two diesel engines with 2.0 l displacement complete the programme: the 103 kW / 140 PS engine paired with an automatic and the more powerful variant with a manual gearbox and 125 kW / 170 PS. Prices for the new Tiguan Track & Avenue begin at 38,225 Euros for the 2.0 l TSI with manual gearbox.


[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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STUTTGART : December 7, 2009 - With snow, sleet, freezing fog, black ice, temperatures hovering around zero and severe frosts, the winter months hold some unpleasant road conditions in store for drivers. Despite these impediments, however, drivers of Mercedes models equipped with the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive system can set off for the daily commute to work or savour the drive to the next winter wonderland with complete peace of mind. This is because the 4MATIC drive concept boasts formidable performance on snow-covered or icy roads. The E-Class 4MATIC in particular stands out for its blend of high traction reserves, excellent directional stability, peerless safety and exceptional comfort levels. Mercedes-Benz is demonstrating the capa-bilities of the Saloon and Estate models by staging a 4MATIC Workshop in extreme winter conditions on the Timmelsjoch high alpine road in Austria.



As with the 4MATIC system's set-up on a dry or wet road, directional stability and, therefore, active safety are paramount at all times when wintry conditions prevail, too. The mechanical principle of the 4MATIC system, featuring a 45:55 torque split between the front and rear axles and a multi-disc limited-slip centre differential with a basic locking torque of 50 Nm, offers all the right ingredients. This basic design enables high levels of traction, as the dynamic shift in axle load toward the rear axle that occurs during acceleration is harnessed to deliver more drive torque to the rear wheels. However, the multi-disc differential lock is also able to shift the drive torque between the front and rear axles, varying the split between 30:70 and 70:30 as the road conditions dictate. Consequently, intervention by the ESP®, 4ETS or ASR electronic control systems can be delayed for as long as possible and the bulk of the drive torque converted into tractive power, even on slippery roads. All control system interventions go virtually unnoticed, yet drivers still know straight away if they are driving on the limit: in such instances, a yellow warning symbol flashes in the instrument cluster as a
highly visible prompt to adapt their driving style to the road conditions.

The drive mechanism's permanently engaged design offers key advantages over other systems that first need to diagnose a lack of grip before activating the 4x4 drive. The 4MATIC on the E-Class will have already made use of this valuable time to start transmitting drive torque via the wheels to the road.

E-Class 4MATIC: stable handling on snow and ice

When pulling away in wintry conditions, the E-Class 4MATIC models are designed to develop maximum traction. To this end, certain road conditions are automatically detected and the interventions of the 4ETS electronic traction control system adjusted so as to achieve the greatest possible acceleration while minimising wheel slip, ensuring optimum directional stability in the process. This strategy also allows the vehicle to pull away under the most adverse conditions, such as when one side of the vehicle is on an icy slope (µ-split) or both wheels on the front or rear axle have limited grip (µ-jump).

On twisting roads covered with snow and ice, vehicle stability is primarily controlled by the ASR acceleration skid control system's regulation of engine torque. The ASR control thresholds are adjusted according to the driving situation based on the vehicle's longitudinal and lateral dynamic readings as continuously measured by the ESP sensor system. If vehicle stability is to be maintained, the longitudinal force when cornering must be controlled by means of engine torque regulation in such a way that there are sufficient reserves of lateral force at all times. In order to comply with this physical correlation, when cornering on road surfaces with a low friction coefficient the control thresholds for engine torque regulation at the wheels on the outside of the bend are reduced considerably so that the tyres can develop sufficient lateral force.

4MATIC: cutting-edge technology breaks new ground

The 4MATIC powertrain in the E-Class is one of the best-performing permanent all-wheel-drive systems on the market. The basic design concept, with the engine installed longitudinally and the integral transmission and transfer case unit, produces a compact, lightweight arrangement that minimises frictional losses, heralding a number of benefits compared to other passenger car systems with a transverse power unit and selectable 4x4. Fuel consumption, for instance, is a mere between 0.2 and 0.6 litres more per hundred kilometres than on a com-parable model with conventional drive, while vibration and acoustic comfort meet the high standards expected of the E-Class.

E-Class synonymous with supreme ride comfort in winter too

Mercedes-Benz achieves the standard of ride comfort which all versions of the E‑Class are renowned for courtesy of the highly sophisticated DIRECT CONTROL suspension with adaptive shock absorbers, an intelligent body design with excellent rigidity, plus enhanced seats which are also available with massage and climate control functions. The weight-optimised DIRECT CONTROL system, featuring a three-link front suspension and multi-link independent rear suspension, automatically adapts to the changing driving situation by varying the damping forces, resulting in a substantial improvement in ride comfort. The air suspension system – optional for all 4MATIC models and standard on the E 500 4MATIC – is combined with a continuously variable, electronically controlled damping system that processes a series of sensor signals and controls each wheel individually. So, not only do Mercedes customers experience the best in ride comfort, they reap the benefits of excellent handling safety and sporty agility too.

Carefully balanced control of the interior climate is especially important in the winter. This is why Mercedes-Benz offers THERMOTRONIC luxury automatic climate control for the E-Class. Apart from regulating the climate separately for the driver, front passenger and passengers in the rear, this system allows individual pre-settings to be programmed too. It furthermore includes a pollutant sensor which automatically switches to air recirculation mode if it detects any sudden increase in the carbon monoxide or nitrogen oxide levels in the outside air – when driving through a tunnel, for instance. Another highlight of the THERMOTRONIC system is the residual heat function: pressing the "Rest" button heats or ventilates the passenger compartment for around 30 minutes when the engine is switched off. The E-Class is equipped as standard with THERMATIC, a two-zone automatic climate control system. Here, the interior air is kept clean by a large, hermetically sealed fine-particle combination filter which is 96 to 98 percent effective. Thanks to the activated-charcoal coating, gaseous substances can also be filtered out by the fine-particle combination filter.

THERMATIC and THERMOTRONIC heat up the passenger compartment of the E‑Class extremely efficiently, even after a cold start on winter mornings. This is thanks to a heating output of eleven kilowatts, equivalent to the capacity of the central heating system in a modern family home. On the diesel models, a heat exchanger with six integral PTC heating elements (PTC = Positive Temperature Coefficient) is also activated when the outside temperature falls below a certain level in order to boost the effect of the main heat exchanger with an electrical output of around 1200 watts. The assistance from the PTC heater is necessary due to the high thermal efficiency of today's CDI engines, which is precisely what makes them so economical and means that they dissipate considerably less heat to the coolant under partial load conditions than conventional engines.

Mercedes offers 4MATIC in 52 passenger car models

The Mercedes-Benz all-wheel-drive line-up encompasses 52 passenger car models across nine model series and offers an impressively wide choice: besides the E-Class and the C-Class, which likewise comes in both a saloon and an estate variant, the 4MATIC portfolio is enriched by models from the S-Class, CL luxury coupé and R‑Class touring SUV ranges too. There is also the compact GLK as well as the GL‑Class and M-Class off-roaders. Still going strong after 30 years in production, the G-Class truly comes into its own off the beaten track and continues to rank as one of the best cross-country vehicles in the world.

All-wheel drive development expertise since 1903

There is a reason why Mercedes engineers are so skilled in the development of groundbreaking all-wheel-drive concepts. The history of all-wheel drive at
Mercedes-Benz dates all the way back to 1903. Since then, the accepted maxim has been that all-wheel drive is the best technology for making quicker and safer progress under the most adverse conditions. Over the course of the years it has been successfully employed in a variety of Mercedes-Benz models. Some models, such as the G-Class and the Unimog, have attained legendary status all over the world. But all-wheel drive has its benefits in everyday operation on asphalt roads too, as demonstrated by the 4MATIC saloons from Mercedes-Benz. The innovative drive concept received its saloon premiere in the W 124 E-Class model series back in 1987. The 4ETS system made its debut aboard the M-Class in 1997. Mercedes-Benz has therefore amassed a wealth of experience with these electronic control systems – more in fact than any other car manufacturer.



[Source : DAIMLER]
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As the eagerly awaited Aston Martin Rapide four-door sports car goes through final engineering and testing phases before being launched in quarter one 2010, Aston Martin confirms UK pricing.


The price of the Rapide will start from £139,950 in the UK which features an impressive level of standard specification including: Bang & Olufsen Beosound audio system tailored specifically for Rapide, heated memory seats, dual cast brakes and Adaptive Damping System.

The Rapide is Aston Martin’s first production four-door sports car encapsulating the practicality of a car with extra doors and fusing it with the trademark sports car dynamics synonymous with modern Aston Martins.

Customer deliveries will commence at the beginning of quarter two 2010, and it will be the first sports car to be hand-built at the Aston Martin Rapide Plant in Graz, Austria. The new 17,000 m2 building has been designed to reflect the quality levels established in Gaydon since 2003 permitting the fusion of modern technology, advanced manufacturing processes and hand-built craftsmanship. Each Rapide will take approximately 220 man hours to build and will benefit from timeless craft skills just like the existing range; DBS, DB9, V12 and V8 Vantage do at Gaydon.

It is anticipated that +/- 2000 Rapides will be built in the first year attracting a high proportion of new customers to the brand. Core to this trend is the mix of huge attention to detail throughout the car, ample accommodation for up to four adults and the spacious boot (317 litres with seats up, and 886 litres with seats down) while maintaining Rapide’s elegant beauty and sports car profile.
The Rapide is on sale now available to order from the Aston Martin dealership network around the world.



[Source : ASTON MARTIN]
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The Volvo Car Corporation is one of the sponsors of limousines and other cars for the COP15 Climate Conference in Copenhagen from December 7 to 18, 2009.


All in all, heads of state and other prominent visitors will have access to 60 Volvo S80 and Volvo V70 cars - 40 of them Flexifuel models powered by bioethanol and the remaining 20 diesel-powered DRIVe models with CO₂ emissions of just 129 g/km.

Even now, Volvo has the Volvo C30 DRIVe, that emits an average of 99 grams CO₂ per kilometre and has a fuel consumption of 3.8 litres/100 km, in its model programme.


"We support COP15's efforts to systematically reduce global CO₂ emissions. ‘DRIVe Towards Zero' is our vision for developing cars entirely free from harmful exhaust emissions and environment-impacting carbon dioxide. Our aim for 2020 is to bring the average emissions from our models down to 90-100g CO₂ per kilometre," says Stephen Odell, President and CEO of the Volvo Car Corporation.


Wide range of Flexifuel (E85) cars

Volvo Cars has one of the market's broadest Flexifuel ranges. All told five models - the Volvo C30, S40, V50, V70 and S80 - are available with one or a choice of two E85 engines.

The Volvo V70 and Volvo S80 in Copenhagen have a five-cylinder 2.5-litre turbocharged Flexifuel engine producing 200 hp (147 kW) and 300 Nm of torque.

Flexifuel cars can be run on bioethanol E85 (85 percent bioethanol, 15 percent petrol) or on unleaded petrol, or on any mixture of these two fuels. The carbon dioxide produced from ethanol is part of nature's own carbon lifecycle. E85 is not available in Denmark. This means that a special supply has been created for the Flexifuel cars in the official vehicle fleet.


Seven DRIVe models

At present, Volvo's DRIVe range consists of a series of seven extremely fuel-efficient diesel models. The Volvo S80 and Volvo V70 DRIVe are powered by a 1.6-litre diesel engine. The fuel consumption (EU Combined) is 4.9 l/100 km, which translates into CO₂ emissions of 129 g/km - a particularly competitive figure for large premium cars.

[Source : VOLVO]
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COPENHAGEN : December 7, 2009 - Honda announced today that it has become one of only four car sponsors of the COP15 Climate Conference, which takes place in Copenhagen from 7th December to 18th December 2009. The announcement comes after Honda successfully met a series of strict environmental requirements set by the Danish Foreign Ministry.



The sponsorship will see Honda supply the two-week climate summit with a fleet of environmentally friendly new Honda Insight hybrid cars. The FCX Clarity, Honda’s ground-breaking, zero emission hydrogen powered fuel cell electric vehicle will also be present at the summit as part of a COP15 showcase – ‘Driving the Future’. The vehicles will be used to transport delegates, VIPS and journalists to key venues around the conference.

Commenting on the sponsorship, Svend Olling, Head of Department at the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “In meeting our criteria, Honda has been selected as official sponsor of vehicles for the COP15 Climate Conference. Not only does the sponsorship enable us to lower emissions from the conference itself, but the vehicles also demonstrate technology, which already today can help us in our efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions in the transportation sector.”

Yuishi Fukuda, President of Nordic Honda A.B. added:
“Honda is proud to have been accepted by the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs as an official sponsor of the COP15 Climate Conference. The vehicles on display will demonstrate Honda’s commitment to manufacturing products with the highest possible environmental performance, using production systems with the smallest environmental impact. “

In 2006 Honda became the first automobile manufacturer in the world to announce global per-unit CO₂ reduction targets for both its products and production activities.



[Source : HONDA]
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OSLO, Norway : December 7, 2009 – THINK, the Scandinavian electric vehicle (EV) maker, and its largest fleet customer, Move About, the Norwegian car-share fleet operator, are providing 15 THINK City courtesy vehicles to the COP 15 Copenhagen United Nations Climate Change Conference 2009.


The low carbon battery electric vehicles will be on hand at the Bella Centeret conference centre from the opening of COP15 today and for the duration of the summit. All conference delegates will be invited to ride in the world’s first urban EV during their time in Copenhagen.

Move About’s THINK City vehicles will also participate in the Copenhagen Hopenhagen Live Parade on 13 December, which is a cavalcade of alternative fuels vehicles through the centre of the city to mark the close of the 2009 climate change conference.

Move About Chairman, Jarle Froshaug, said: “With our 15 THINK City cars we have the largest EV fleet here in Copenhagen, and we hope that many of the delegates, VIPs and media at COP 15 will ‘walk the talk’ and choose to ride with us, emissions free.”

THINK CEO, Richard Canny added: “We are proving that electric vehicles are a viable, safe, fun and practical method of urban transportation. We’re delighted to see governments around the world working together to accelerate this transition. This change to electric transportation is as profound as the change to the personal computer and the internet.”

He added: “THINK is proud to be a pioneer linking the new energy industry with the traditional auto industry, and our fleet of THINK City EVs proves that the change has reached a tipping point. With a range of up to 180km and zero vehicle emissions, the THINK City has to be the smart choice for visitors to ride in at COP15.”

The THINK City is the world’s first urban EV to be granted certification with the European CE conformity mark and EU homologation requirements (M1 certificate). To achieve these exacting standards, the THINK City has been through extensive testing and validation, including hundreds of computer simulations and correlations, over 50 sled tests and more than 20 full vehicle crash tests.

Sales of the THINK City have started in selected markets, such as Norway, Denmark, Sweden, The Netherlands, Switzerland and most recently, Spain. Vehicles in these countries are primarily sold to municipal fleet holders, governments and utility partners as pilot and demonstration fleets with the support of government incentives.

[Source : THINK via NEWSPRESS]
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WOLFSBURG/NICE : December 7, 2009 - The new Scirocco R is here. Power : 195 kW/265 PS. Character: genuine sports car. Performance: at its fullest.



Handling: just like it should be. Fun factor: maximum. Car orders taken: effective immediately. That is why Volkswagen is presenting the car to the international press media at this time. And it is being presented in a region whose serpentine asphalt roads seem to attract the agile car: the French Maritime Alps high above the roofs of Nice. There are
some stretches of road here that are identical to those of the Monte Carlo Rally, such as the climb to the legendary Col de Turini. Not only is the strongest Scirocco of all times right in its element here – the new four-seat sports car is ideal as a dynamic performer and economical companion on the roads of everyday life as well. Always on-board as standard equipment: the XDS electronic transverse differential lock – first introduced on the Golf GTI – provides for optimal traction pro per ties and pure driving fun.

R-Concept

The Scirocco R – conceptualized by Volkswagen Individual – is an impressive performance package with a brilliant engine and chassis, unique looks and exclusive features.

Instead of the usual six-cylinder used so far in R-models of this segment, a boosted four-cylinder TSI is being used in the new Scirocco R. Its advantages: very high power and
torque values with significantly reduced fuel consumption. On average, just 8.1 litres of super unleaded flows to the combustion chambers via direct injection per 100 kilometres of driving. That corresponds to CO₂ emissions of 189 g/km – top values for a fast 250 km/h (electroni cally limited) sports car. And it gets even better: when driven with the optional Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), these values are 8.0 litres and 187 g/km.

Scirocco fleet at the 24 hour race: This May – at the 24 hour race on the Nürburgring – Volkswagen proved once again just how much dynamic potential the Scirocco possesses. An entire fleet of two-door cars, five cars altogether, entered the marathon ride through the “Green Hell” there; each of them bore a close resemblance to the production vehicle,
both technically and visually.

Three of the Scirocco GT24 race cars were powered by a TSI petrol engine with 315 PS. Two other GT24s sported the additional CNG badge for Compressed Natural Gas, because their over 280 PS strong TSI engines were powered with natural gas. By the end of the 24 hours, Volkswagen had written motor sports history: With the Scirocco GT24, the team
scored a victory in the class of vehicles with two-litre turbo engines.

Further more, the Scirocco GT24-CNG cars impressively claimed first and second places in the alternative drive vehicle category. Back in 2008, professionals the likes of Carlos Sainz and Hans-Joachim Stuck rocketed two Scirocco GT24 cars to a dual victory in their class in this classic endurance race.

R-Drive

Now the new R-version is going to the starting line as the production counterpart to the race car. To attain the very high specific power in the 2.0 TSI (97.5 kW /132.5 PS per litre displacement), Volkswagen decided on a turbocharged petrol direct-injection engine.

More dynamic performance by clever downsizing: Like all TSI engines, the R-version too combines the efficiency of direct injection with the power of engine boosting. Despite downsizing of engine dis placement and number of cylinders, the 1,984 cm3 sixteen-valve, four- cylinder engine develops significantly more power (+ 15 PS) and torque (+ 30 Newton-meter) than the six-cylinder engine of the last Golf R32.

Specifically, the 2.0-litre TSI in the new Scirocco R attains a maximum power of 265 PS at 6,000 rpm. Its maximum torque – a hefty 350 Newtonmeter – is available over an immense range of engine speed: 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. This makes for agile responsiveness of the engine, which is able to spontaneously summon torque in the blink of an eye in
practi cally any speed range. The engine’s acoustic output impressively under scores its special kind of power development. The exhaust system itself is designed as a double-flow system. Oval chrome tailpipes extend out from the bumper, one on the left and one on the right.

Engine of the Year for the Scirocco R: The in-line four cylinder, which has already earned four “Engine of the Year” awards, builds up its power ful torque via a turbocharger (up to 1.2 bar boost pressure) with intercooling. The engine, weighing in at just 152 kilograms, is controlled by fully electronic engine management with E-gas. The pistons of the four cylinder have higher strength bolts compared to less powerful versions. The connecting rods were also designed to be stronger to reliably transmit the engine’s high torque to the crankshaft. Because of the tremen dous engine forces that are generated, the cylinder block itself was reinforced as well.

All of this has a highly dynamic effect: The lightweight 1,344 kilogram Scirocco R needs just 5.5 short seconds for the intermediate sprint from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear. It is precisely this type of driving, with the sensation of a build-up to maximum torque that is “felt” right from idling, which distinguishes this sports car. It is an impressive, cool cruiser for every road and day of the year. Yet, those drivers who downshift and unleash the car’s power at full throttle awaken a second side of the Scirocco R: a car with motor sport DNA that sprints from rest to 100 km/h in just 6.0 seconds and handles the classic 1,000 meter sprint in 25.6 seconds. Top speed: electronically limited to 250 km/h (at 6,320 rpm.).

It is a given that this Scirocco also has an optional dual clutch transmission (DSG). Those opting for the innovative 6-speed DSG will experience an even faster sprinting Scirocco R: the 100 km/h mark drops down to 5.8 seconds here. As is so often the case with a DSG, gains in dynamic performance (and comfort) are by no means purchased at the expense of fuel efficiency or emissions. In fact, the opposite is true, as demonstrated by its 8.0 litre combined fuel consumption and 187 g/km CO₂.

R-Chassis

Volkswagen is sending the Scirocco R onto the streets with a specially tuned sport chassis and XDS electronic transverse differential lock as standard equipment. The latter refers to a functional extension of the electronic differential lock (EDS) that is integrated in the ESP system and eliminates any type of traction loss.

XDS compensates for understeer: As soon as the intelligent electronics detects unloading of the front wheel at the inside of a curve in fast curve driving, the ESP hydraulics applies braking pressure at this specific wheel to restore optimal traction. So, XDS serves as a transverse differential lock to compensate for the typical understeer of
front-wheel drive cars in fast curve driving. The driving behaviour of the already agile Scirocco R is made significantly more precise and neutral thanks to XDS.

Chassis layout from production: In front, the Scirocco R has a McPherson strut type suspension for precise tracking and balanced comfort proper ties. In the rear, a four-link suspension convincingly meets the challenge of achieving a sporty yet comfortable chassis tuning.

DCC optimally resolves dilemma between comfort and dynamics : As an option, the Scirocco R is available with DCC Dynamic Chassis Control. This system continually adjusts damping of individual wheels to roadway conditions based on signals from three body sensors and displacement sensors at each wheel. During acceleration, braking and steering processes, chassis damping is stiffened in fractions of a second to optimally meet vehicle dynamic requirements. By making these auto matic adjustments, DCC significantly increases comfort in driving situations whose dynamics are less challenging, resolving the conflict in goals between a stiff sporty tuning and a comfortable one.

Besides the “Normal” DCC mode, the driver can also choose the “Sport” or “Comfort” mode.

New R-wheel styling: Standard equipment includes newly designed 18-inch alloy wheels (“Talladega” type) with size 235/40 tyres. An optional 19-inch version of the wheels is also offered. Both wheeltyre combinations support the maximum attainable lateral vehicle dynamics of the new sports car.

17-inch braking system for maximum deceleration: The braking system was also modified to handle the Scirocco R’s higher level of driving performance. That is why a 17-inch system is used instead of a 16-inch system ; this enables impressive braking performance with ventilated disks and R-specific brake calipers painted in glossy black on all four
brakes. In front, the disks have a diameter of 345 millimetres, and in the rear 310 milli metres. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) was also modified. A new Sport mode can be selected by pressing the ESP button (centre console). This makes the ESP respond later in very fast driving on roads with lots of curves – e.g. on a race course – for
even more agile handling properties. In parallel, Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) is completely deactivated when ESP Sport mode is selected. The electro-mechanical power steering of the new Scirocco R was also given a sportier tuning curve.

R-Design

Front end with LED daytime running lights: The front end design reflects the motto “form follows function”; it integrates three large air inlets with large louvres in the bumper customized for the Scirocco R, which engineers designed for optimal cooling of the brakes and engine. Integrated to the right and left of the outboard air inlets are
newly designed and standard LED daytime running lights. The narrow, unique radiator grille is styled in a high-end glossy black. Here (as on the rear gate) the Scirocco R can be identified by a new R-logo design in chrome on a black background. Providing for perfect illumination of the roadway, meanwhile, are standard bi-xenon headlights with
integrated indicator lights.

Rear end with double-flow exhaust system: Compared to all other produc tion Sciroccos, the rear image of this car is dominated by a consider ably larger roof edge spoiler and a prominent glossy black diffuser in the lower bumper area that shows typical R-styling. Both of these components – diffuser and roof edge spoiler – reduce aerodynamic lift at the rear axle. Stylistically, the oval chrome tailpipes of the double-flow exhaust system are harmoniously integrated into the overall rear section design. One tailpipe on the left and the other on the right define the border between the black diffuser and the bumper painted in body colour. In addition, the rear lights of the new Scirocco R were given a smoked tint.

Side profile with new R-wheels: The side view is characterized by power fully styled side skirts painted in body colour as well as new “Talladega” style alloy R-wheels in 18-inch format. The milled, polished wheels have five sets of three spokes that are just as visually unique and striking as the wheels of the Golf GTI (“Denver”) and offer a very attractive look at the large 17-inch braking system with its glossy black calipers and R-logo. As an option, Volkswagen is also offering a 19-inch version of the “Talladega” wheels (named after a race track in the USA). Like the brake calipers, the outside mirrors of the Scirocco R are always painted a glossy black, independent of the body colour.

R-Interior

The interior of the new Scirocco R presents an altogether refined appearance. As is typical of all R-models, special interior accents, sport seats (optionally in leather) and numerous other dynamic features are applied. And indeed as standard equipment. Details of features distinguishing the Scirocco R from other versions with up to 210 PS power :

• Sport seat system with seat covers in “Kyalami” fabric weave (named after the Formula-1 race course in South Africa), with R-Logo on the front head restraints in “Art Grey”. Inner surface of contoured seat side supports has crystal grey microfibres.
• Unique aluminium decor inserts in the instruments with R-logo. High-gloss black accents in the centre console area, door handles, gearshift grip, air vents and steering wheel spokes.
• Hand brake grip and gearshift trim in leather, with “Art Grey” decorative seams. Floor mat inserts are also in “Art Grey”.
• Aluminium tread plates with R-Logo worked in.
• Instruments with white backlighting and blue pointers and speedometer indicator up to 300 km/h.
• Multifunctional leather steering wheel, flat-bottomed, in R-design (three spokes, perforated leather in upper and lower third, grip recesses right and left), with “Art Grey” decorative seams, R-logo in the lower steering wheel spoke and multifunctional keys in the steering wheel’s cross spokes. When the Scirocco R is ordered as a DSG version, the steering wheel is equipped with shift paddles (+/-).

R-Extra features

All Sciroccos sport a very extensive list of features. Standard features include six airbags, ESP with countersteering assist, electro-mechanical power steering, daytime running lights, semi-automatic climate control (“Climatic”), central locking with RF remote control and electric windows, to name just a few details. On the Scirocco R, this
list is exten ded by features already mentioned under “Interior”. The following extra functional features are included:

• Bi-xenon headlights including static curve lighting, dynamic headlight levelling control, headlight cleaning system and warning lamp for low washer fluid level.
• Automatic climate control (“Climatronic”) with separate left and right controls, plus automatic recirculation switching.
• “RCD 310” Radio-CD system (4 x 20 Watt) with eight loudspeakers, CD player, MP3 playback function with title display, dual tuner with phase diversity for best possible radio reception and AUX-IN multimedia socket in the centre console.
• Light and Sight package with two lights in the front footwells, automatic running light switching (including “Coming home” and “Leaving home” functions, automatically dimming rearview mirror and rain sensor.
• Tyre pressure monitoring indicator.
• LED daytime running lights

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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Citroën introduces the new C3 - a smart, sophisticated, low CO₂ and unique 5-door supermini, designed for the modern family.


Boasting contemporary and dynamic styling, a sleek profile, refined quality throughout and a massive panoramic ‘Zenith’ windscreen, this is a car that sets a new benchmark in the B-segment - and is a bold reinvention of its popular predecessor, which sold more than 2 million examples worldwide.

With a focus on four main areas - STYLE, QUALITY, SPACE and EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE - Citroën’s design team have created one of the most appealing and rewarding models to own in its class.

In addition, thanks to the availability of the unique panoramic Zenith windscreen, new C3 provides something extra - a totally new motoring sensation. Just one of the stand-out design features of this new car, the vast and flowing glass area is a quintessential application of Citroën’s ‘Créative Technologie’, a feat of vehicle engineering and an unparalleled offering in the small car market.

Not only one of the most compact models in the B-segment (5cm shorter than Corsa and 9cm shorter than 207 and Clio), the new C3 also offers one of the most spacious cabin environments and a class-leading 300-litres of boot space. New C3’s intelligent architecture optimises internal volumes and provides generous amounts of room for all occupants - ensuring exceptional driver and passenger comfort.


On the road, new C3 combines refined performance with a smooth ride and nimble handling. The designers’ focus on the control of weight and optimising aerodynamics means the new C3 is one of Citroën’s most CO₂-efficient models. A Special Edition Airdream+ with just 99g/km of CO₂ will be available to order from launch.

To further promote money-saving greener driving, most versions feature a Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI), which alerts the driver at the optimum moment to change gear - helping them to minimise fuel consumption.

Designed with the latest technology to suit 21st century driving requirements, new C3 is available with Citroën’s integrated MyWay widescreen colour satellite navigation system, as well as Bluetooth^® and USB connectivity for portable media players. The new C3 also benefits from a six-speaker audio system, with the availability of a new eight-speaker Hi-Fi system for concert theatre-like sound quality.

The range of available engines meets every requirement. New C3 offers a choice of four petrol power-plants - two of which were co-developed with BMW - plus three of Citroën’s critically acclaimed HDi diesels. With combined cycle fuel economy of up to 48.7mpg for petrol models, and up to 74.3mpg on diesel versions, the new Citroën C3 offers a combination of stylish and economical motoring.

As with any new Citroën model, safety is assured. The new C3 features an array of active and passive safety equipment, which includes a reinforced body structure and ABS with EBD and EBA as standard, as well as the availability of cruise control with speed limiter and up to six airbags. ESP is also available on certain models.

The new C3 will be offered in Citroën’s three core trim levels - VT, VTR+ and Exclusive - along with the Special Edition Airdream+ 1.6HDi 90hp, which emits just 99g/km of CO₂.

The ‘on-sale’ date in the UK is 15th January 2010 and prices (including VAT @ 17.5%), start at just £10,790 for the entry-level 1.1i 8V 61hp VT petrol, rising to £16,140 for the range-topping 1.6HDi 110hp 6-speed manual Exclusive. At the heart of the range and offering an excellent balance of value and equipment, VTR+ models start at £12,690 for the petrol versions and £13,790 for the HDi-powered equivalent.

Gary Savage, Citroën UK’s Managing Director, said, “The stylish, grown-up, yet fun C3 is impossible to confuse with any other car. Retaining the exuberant charm and friendly personality of its predecessor, the new C3 represents a bold, contemporary, dynamically rewarding and fresh approach to the compact family vehicle, and provides a unique offering with that sensational panoramic Zenith windscreen.

In these exciting times for Citroën, new models such as C3 clearly show the confidence of the brand. This new car illustrates our determination to exceed expectations, to do away with convention and to provide practical benefits through the use of Créative Technologie.”



Marketplace

The new C3 falls into the popular and growing B-segment, where its predecessor sold more than 2 million examples worldwide. It will appeal to drivers looking for an enjoyable and rewarding ownership experience. New C3 meets the demand for a practical and economical vehicle that also delivers style, distinction, durability and safety.

Offering space, functionality and a refined interior - plus the unique panoramic Zenith windscreen - new C3 has a stand-out personality that will successfully differentiate it from the competition. New C3 will appeal to a wide range of customers who want their vehicle to be individual and not just another face in the crowd.

A vehicle for all ages, the new C3 will be desirable to young families and single professionals looking for a car with a sense of fun, driving pleasure and a distinct personality, but also with practical space and great fuel economy. It will also appeal to older drivers looking for a comfortable and spacious compact car with high levels of specification.

Whilst most models in the small car market either focus on style (with sporty, dynamic characteristics) or practicality (with an emphasis on value-for-money), the new C3 strikes an excellent balance between the two.


Product In Detail

Style - Exterior

The new C3 represents an upmarket shift by Citroën towards the highest levels of B-segment comfort and prestige. Retaining some of the familiar lines of its predecessor, the tauter and sleeker new C3 takes inspiration from B-segment premium models and from the sector above. The result is a stylish and contemporary design that places an emphasis on quality, sophistication and fun.

The design of the body is much more dynamic, with smooth lines flowing over chrome trimmed surfaces. There’s even chrome detailing at the top of the panoramic Zenith windscreen where it meets the roof. The new look is underpinned by the gaping front grill, the incisive boomerang-shaped headlights and emphatically drawn wings, which help to give new C3 its purposeful, low-slung stance.

Catering for a wide range of customer preferences, buyers can personalise their new C3 with a choice of ten elegant body colours. There is also a choice of stylish alloy wheels, with 15” alloys available on VTR+ models and either 16” or 17” alloys on Exclusive versions.

Style - Interior

Inside the cabin, Citroën’s designers have focused on quality and comfort, with a stylish and sophisticated interior tailored with chrome and gloss black trim, and a choice of four upholstery styles - including a leather seat option.

The flowing lines of the exterior are mirrored in the smooth horizontal dashboard design, which combines chic styling with high-tech appeal and is finished with either a brushed steel or chrome strip that runs the full width of the car.

The new C3 is designed for an enjoyable driving experience. From the comfort of the contoured seats, the driver looks through the sculpted steering wheel to a brand new instrument cluster design, which sports two analogue dials and an LED display - with a floating visor above to shield them from glare.

Panoramic Zenith Windscreen

VTR+ and Exclusive models, as well as the Airdream+ Special Edition, all feature the innovative panoramic Zenith windscreen, which dominates the car’s appearance from every forward angle. Unique to the market, this massive screen opens up new perspectives and sensations for all occupants.

Soaring 1.35m from bonnet to roof, the panoramic Zenith windscreen is 36% bigger than a normal screen on an average 5-door small car and the angle from the driver’s eye line to the top of the windscreen is a huge 108° instead of the segment average 28°.

Coupled with slim A-pillars, the curved glazed area offers unrivalled visibility - with obvious safety benefits - and gives occupants a truly panoramic view of the world. Progressive tinting across the top 25cm of the screen ensures optimal protection from overhead sunlight. A sunblind, featuring two sun-visors, can easily be pulled forwards when driving in low-angle sun conditions.

Quality

With breakthrough levels of quality, the new C3 was benchmarked by its designers against models from the segment above. The huge leap in refinement stems from the special attention paid to the quality of the finishes and materials used - such as on the ‘soft-touch’ upper dashboard. Throughout the interior, the new C3 is inspired by cues from upper segment vehicles, delivering the highest levels of comfort and prestige.

To maintain a calm and peaceful ambience in the cabin, the levels of soundproofing are amongst the best in the segment. Mechanical vibration, as well as noise from the road, have all been minimised and the engine compartment has three times as much sound-absorbent material (155 dm²) compared to the outgoing C3 (48dm²).

New C3’s occupants can be are bathed in light both day and night. Interior mood lighting is available to create a warm and welcoming night-time driving atmosphere in the cabin. Automatically adjusted by an integrated rheostat, the light sources are located in the central console and front foot-wells.

An integrated air freshener helps maintain a fresh and pleasant aroma in the cabin and is a luxurious little touch to enhance the sense of well-being on-board. With a range of available perfumes, the system can continually diffuse a light fragrance into the passenger compartment via the air vents.

Space

The new C3 is one of the most compact models in the segment at just 3.94m long, 1.73m wide and 1.52m high, and also offers one of the most generous cabin environments in its class for both occupant space and load volume.

The intelligent design of the car’s internal architecture utilises the best of Citroën creativity to generate the maximum amount of useable space. For example, the recessed lower dashboard frees legroom for the front passenger, which means they can sit further forward, creating more legroom for back seat passengers. The slim design of the front seat backs creates an additional 3cm of legroom in the rear and the semi-raised front seating position also creates space under the seats for rear passenger’s feet.

The 300-litre boot, with its optimised design, is the biggest in the segment and offers easy loading - thanks to the lowered boot sill (only 22.7cm from the floor of the boot to the top of the sill), and the increased width of the boot aperture (104cm). For secure stowage, the boot also has four lashing rings and can be equipped with a removable load net. To increase rear load space, the 60:40 split-folding rear seats can be tumbled down with one hand in a single effortless movement using levers accessed from either the boot or the back seats. With the rear seats down it is possible to load boxes up to 1029 x 1189 x 689mm in size.

Providing convenient storage throughout the cabin, the new C3 is fitted with front and rear door cubby holes, compartments in the central fascia and central armrest, as well as a handy sliding drawer beneath the front passenger seat.

Efficient Performance

One of Citroën’s key objectives in the development of new C3 was to maximise efficiency. A design emphasis was placed on minimising the car’s overall weight and optimising the aerodynamic performance - new C3 boasts a Cd of 0.30 - helping the model to deliver excellent fuel economy and low CO₂ emissions.

With its agile frame and optimised aerodynamic profile, new C3 is effortless to manoeuvre with a responsive feel. Utilising Citroën’s extensive knowledge of combining smooth road manners with precise handling, new C3’s MacPherson-type front suspension, new rear axle with flexible traverse beam and variable electric power steering, all combine to strike the best balance between ride comfort and road holding. The refined running gear benefits from a range of suspension settings adapted to the power and torque of each engine. Light steering at low speeds and the 10.2m turning circle make the new C3 an ideal vehicle for city driving.

Benefitting from Citroën’s family of efficient power-plants, the new C3 will be offered with an extensive choice of four petrol engines and three HDi diesels, with a Special Edition Airdream+ 1.6HDi 90hp available from launch emitting just 99g/km of CO₂ - the first production Citroën to emit less than 100g/km.

The three critically acclaimed HDi diesels - 1.4HDi 8V 70hp, 1.6HDi 16V 90hp and 1.6HDi 16V 110hp - all emit 115g/km of CO₂ or less. The 1.6HDi 16V 110hp and the 1.6HDi 16V 90hp Euro V engines (the latter being specified in the Airdream+), are fitted with Citroën’s lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System).

The four petrol engines - 1.1i 8V 61hp, 1.4i 8V 75hp, 1.4 16V VTi 95hp and 1.6 16V VTi 120hp - emit between 134g/km and 158g/km of CO₂. The VTi 95hp and VTi 120hp are from Citroën’s family of refined and economical BMW co-developed power-plants.

For drivers keeping a close eye on their fuel costs, the new C3 delivers excellent combined cycle fuel economy of up to 48.7mpg for petrol models and 74.3mpg for diesel-powered versions.

All engines are mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, apart from the 1.6HDi 16V 110hp, which has a
6-speed manual transmission. The 1.6 VTi 120hp is offered with a choice of either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.

From 2011, new C3 will be available with even more efficient power-trains - as well as Citroën’s second generation Stop & Start system. Two diesel versions will emit CO₂ at just 90g/km and 95g/km, whilst models fitted with Citroën’s new generation 3-cylinder petrol engines will emit less than 100g/km.

Technology

New C3 can be specified with a range of convenient driver aids, including cruise control with speed limiter, the new Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI) that helps drivers maximise fuel economy and even rear parking sensors. The new C3 is also available with Citroën’s integrated MyWay satellite navigation and multi-media system, which incorporates European mapping, a wide aspect colour screen, live traffic information and Bluetooth^®.

For a rich audio experience, new C3 can be equipped with an all-new Hi-Fi sound system, which features an additional speaker in the centre of the dashboard and an amplified subwoofer in the boot.

Designed for those who like to travel with their music library, new C3 is always well connected with an auxiliary socket fitted as standard across the range - meaning portable music players can always be hooked up to the car’s audio system. Customers can also specify a USB box that features an integrated socket on the central console. This allows users to connect, play and control portable media devices through the car’s audio system with the song title and information shown on the audio display.

The optional Bluetooth^® hands-free equipment allows drivers to stay safely in contact on the road and conveniently enables music stored on mobile phones to be streamed wirelessly through the audio system - without the need for connective cabling.

As a neat example of technology meeting stylish design, Exclusive models equipped with the optional Visibility Pack (automatic headlights, automatic wipers and electrochrome interior rear-view mirror), also gain a row of three white LED lights that illuminate the upper dashboard and central console from above.

Safety

With high levels of both active and passive safety, including a reinforced cabin structure, the new C3 is a reassuringly secure environment for both driver and passengers.

For confident stopping power, all models are fitted as standard with front ventilated disc brakes and ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Braking Assistance). Providing even more assured handling in low-grip conditions, ESP is also available.

From the VTR+ trim level, all models are specified as standard with six airbags (driver, front passenger, front lateral and curtain), and for the secure fitment of child seats, all models are equipped with two Isofix mountings on the rear side seats.

Trim Levels

The new C3 will be offered in Citroën’s three core trim levels - VT, VTR+ and Exclusive - with a Special Edition Airdream+ that emits just 99g/km of CO₂.

Representing outstanding value-for-money, the entry-level VT models features generous levels of standard equipment, including an MP3-compatible radio/CD player with steering mounted controls, electrically adjustable door mirrors, front electric windows and a multi-function on-board trip computer.

At the heart of the range, the VTR+ trim gains the sensational panoramic Zenith windscreen, air-conditioning, 15” alloy wheels, front fog lights, leather steering wheel and cruise control with speed limiter.

The range-topping Exclusive models offers premium levels of design and comfort with additional equipment such as digital air-conditioning, front and rear ‘one-touch’ electric windows, electrically folding and heated door mirrors, part-Alcantara upholstery, 16” alloy wheels and dark tinted rear windows.

The Special Edition Airdream+ will be Citroën’s first production model to emit less than 100g/km of CO₂ and represents the greenest choice for the environmentally conscious motorist. Based on the VTR+ trim level, it gains two additional features as standard - rear parking sensors and Bluetooth^® with USB box.


[Source : CITROEN]
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• New front-end design for British built Qashqai and Qashqai+2
• LED rear lights and two new colours add to 2010 makeover
• Added refinement across the range
• New Pure Drive version with 129g/km CO₂ emissions
• Qashqai available from £15,395

SUNDERLAND : December 4, 2009 - Built in Britain and better than ever – the Qashqai is being revised for 2010. Nissan’s mid-size crossover model will undergo an extensive update in the spring of 2010 to cement its position as the class-leading, pioneering alternative to the traditional hatchback.


Since its European launch in March 2007, the Qashqai has exceeded all sales ambitions, with the 500,000th customer delivery scheduled to take place later this month. This has helped the British manufacturing industry through the recession, as all Qashqais are built at Nissan’s Sunderland plant here in the UK.

The updates to Qashqai and Qashqai+2 reinforce its position as a stylish crossover which combines the dynamic driving characteristics of a sporty hatchback with the robust, solid virtues of a compact SUV.


Refreshed Frontal Aspect

The most notable visual change to the Qashqai is at the front, where a complete makeover has taken place. All new bonnet, front bumper, wings, grille and headlamps combine to give the Qashqai an air of premium sophistication, presence and quality. The new front-end design is shared with Qashqai+2.

At the rear, the overall shape of the lights remains unchanged, but they now include an aerodynamic feature to reduce drag. A more transparent lens design has been adopted, with the upper portion, housing the reversing lights and indicators, being clear, while the lower section with the brake and nighttime running lights, is red. Additionally, the brake and tail lights operate using 12 LEDs for maximum clarity.


Two New Exterior Colours

Two new exterior colours have been added: Magnetic Red and Mineral Grey. Both colours complement the philosophy of added sophistication that runs through the overall restyling.

Additionally, two new alloy wheel designs will be introduced. Both are five-spoke designs – one 16- one 17-inch in diameter – which both add to the Qashqai’s understated presence.

As well as the changes to the front of the Qashqai, a series of other modifications around the car have had the effect of improving its aerodynamic efficiency, with the coefficient of drag dropping from 0.34 to 0.33.


Interior Changes

Inside, the Qashqai features a new design to the main dials which give added clarity and legibility. A redesigned drive computer is positioned between the two dials. Its white LCD screen shows instantaneous and average fuel consumption, mileage, time, cruise control and speed limiter settings among others, providing the driver with an easy to understand interface.

Further improvements to the interior come in the shape of low-level lighting around the front footwells, giving a warmer ambience inside.

Additional oddment storage has been created for added convenience, with a new cubby at the base of the central cluster which is ideal for a mobile phone or portable audio player. Additionally on the two-wheel drive versions (where the ALL MODE selector isn’t fitted), there is a new space for parking tickets, keys and swipe cards conveniently located between the seats just behind the gear selector.

Improved Refinement

Life on board the Qashqai has been made even more comfortable thanks to improved protection against noise, vibration and harshness. This has been achieved by adding an all-new multi-layer insulation material around the front bulkhead, as well as the fitment of an ‘acoustic’ windscreen which reduces the transmission of noise.

Occupants will also notice a reduction in wind noise around the A-pillar, achieved by changing the window sealing.


Retuned Suspension

Qashqai customer research has shown that drivers love the blend of solidity and agility, but some small but significant changes have been made to the suspension tuning to further improve ride comfort and responsiveness.

New Pure Drive 129g/km Version

One of the most significant changes to the Qashqai range is the addition of a new Pure Drive variant. Wearing the badge reserved only for the Nissan models with the most environmentally efficient economy and emissions, this special Qashqai produces only 129g/km of CO₂.

A weight reduction programme and the adoption of aerodynamic wheel covers, combined with the blanking of the fog lamp sockets, the fitment of low rolling resistance tyres and

the lengthening of the final drive ratio all work to maximise the Qashqai Pure Drive’s efficiency. The measures are so effective that CO₂ emissions from the 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine have been reduced from 137 to 129g/km. The Qashqai Visia Pure Drive is priced at £16,795.

UK Pricing

Ensuring the top quality Qashqai remains a top seller in the UK, prices remain highly competitive. Complete with its new styling and dynamic enhancements, the entry-level model costs £15,395, while ownership of a diesel powered Qashqai is available from £16,795.

What’s more, ESP is now fitted as standard across range adding to the Qashqai’s reassuring safety equipment. The specification of Acenta grade and above has now been enhanced with the inclusion of a standard Speed Limiter, while Tekna gains a Bose speaker system. All equipment upgrades apply to both Qashqai and Qashqai+2.

Simon Thomas, Nissan’s European Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing comments: “When Qashqai was launched in Europe in 2007, we were optimistic customers would recognise that it offered an alternative to the traditional hatchback or compact SUV. However, we had to increase production to meet demand and two-and-a-half years later, demand hasn’t relented. Qashqai has been key at reinforcing Nissan’s position as an innovator in the European market. The updates to Qashqai make it even more attractive and will continue to bring new customers to Nissan for the first time.”


[Source : NISSAN]
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LOS ANGELES : December 3, 2009 – In 2010, a revolutionary new Tucson joins the rapidly evolving Hyundai product line. The sleek crossover from Hyundai, with its athletic European design, strikes a stark contrast from its predecessor and improves in every functional area, from its roomier cabin with extra cargo space to its leap in fuel economy and technology. Tucson features the company’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language and is the first vehicle in Hyundai’s 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven all-new models by the end of 2011).


The all-new Tucson is the first Hyundai CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) to be designed and engineered in Europe at Hyundai’s Frankfurt-based design and technical centers. It features precedent-setting engineering including advanced weight saving technology and the eco-efficient Theta II 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering up to 31 mpg on the highway. True to Hyundai form, the Tucson applies life-saving safety technologies as standard equipment while offering, for the first time, Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC). Likewise, to keep its passengers informed and comfortable Tucson integrates Hyundai’s first panoramic sunroof, touch-screen navigation and a Bluetooth? hands-free phone system.


European design

Key attributes of Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design philosophy are the athleticism and sophistication that Tucson demonstrates through its flowing lines, full surfaces and muscular presence. This athletic design language is highlighted by bold, dynamic graphic elements such as the new Hyundai family hexagonal front grille, aggressive lower air intake, sculptured hood creases, swept back headlights, sleek greenhouse and wraparound taillights. Chrome grille accents and door handles lend sophistication to the top-of-the-line Tucson Limited.

Conceived in a global collaboration among Hyundai’s U.S., Korean and European advanced product groups, with design execution led by the Frankfurt studio, the new Tucson was developed as an urban cruiser. It is tough and compact for life in the city, yet sleek and agile for out-of-town travel.
The Tucson combines dynamic, sculpted, performance-oriented styling with thoughtful everyday utility to create a vehicle that will change the way consumers, especially younger car buyers, think about compact crossovers.

With an overall length of 173.2 inches, a width of 71.7 inches and a height of 66.3 inches (with roof rails), Tucson has a great stance and road presence. The design team fused a light, elegant and sporty upper body with belt lines flowing off both the front and rear wheel arches, to a tough, planted lower body so that it is assertive in the way it sits on the road.

The profile of Tucson features a sports car-like theme with a double-zigzag treatment for the wheel arches that wrap around the available Euroflange 18-inch alloy wheels. The concave sills have a wedge-shaped profile that extends rearward and wraps around into the rear bumper, a first of its kind design in a vehicle of this type. The profile is further enhanced by modern silver roof rails.

With high-mounted taillights, multi-surfaced glass and a sculpted bumper, the rear of Tucson also incorporates dynamic design elements.

2010 Tucson 61 pounds lighter than the outgoing model despite being three inches longer

• The 2010 Tucson is 3.3 inches longer and one inch wider than its predecessor, yet 61 pounds lighter
• 2010 Tucson has a longer wheelbase and overall width than CR-V, Escape and Forester to deliver more packing efficiency
• Body stiffness is 38 percent greater than Rogue

World-class weight efficiency was one of the program targets for the Tucson engineering team. In fact, the 2010 Tucson leads all of its competitors in weight efficiency. Hyundai engineers also targeted leadership in power-to-weight ratio. Having these targets paid huge dividends in both performance and fuel economy.

The Tucson’s widespread use of high-strength steel provides increased strength at a lower body weight. High-strength steel allows the four-wheel independent suspension to work optimally. At 3,203 pounds for an automatic transmission model, the Tucson is lighter than its competitors, while offering more interior room than Rogue and Escape, with body-bending rigidity 38 percent higher than the Rogue. The Tucson owes its 31 mpg estimated EPA highway rating to its weight efficient unibody architecture.


Fun-to-drive The 2010 Tucson’s athletic shape is now complemented with more agile handling, responsive steering and improved body roll control. These enhancements make the new Tucson more fun-to-drive. Tucson uses MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems for more precise wheel control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs and fade-resistant gas-charged dampers. Stabilizer bar diameters have also increased. The front suspension now has a new 25 mm hollow stabilizer bar to save weight versus the predecessors 21 mm solid stabilizer bar. The rear suspension has a new 18 mm solid stabilizer bar versus the predecessors 14 mm stabilizer bar. Larger stabilizer bars keep the vehicle very flat during cornering and help provide quick turn-in response.

Rack-and-pinion Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) also contributes to the Tucson’s nimble and refined handling dynamics while saving fuel and reducing interior noise. The MDPS system uses the vehicle’s electrical system for power (unlike the older hydraulic system), allowing for increased fuel economy and calibrated steering efforts through all vehicle speed ranges.

Due to the suspension geometry and wider track width that enables greater turn angles, Tucson’s turning circle is 34.7 feet – an advantage Tucson drivers will appreciate in their daily driving and parking. In fact, Tucson’s turning diameter bests Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.




Tucson delivers better fuel economy than CR-V

The Tucson was engineered to be more fuel efficient than its predecessor and chief competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The 2010 Tucson accomplishes this while being 3.3 inches longer and one inch wider than its predecessor and having a longer wheelbase than Honda CR-V, Ford Escape and Subaru Forester

Tucson features the Theta II 2.4-liter DOHC inline four-cylinder engine. The Theta II engine delivers about the same amount of power and acceleration as its predecessor’s V6 engine with 20 percent better fuel economy than the old four-cylinder engine. In fact, the Tucson is more fuel-efficient than Honda CRV, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape four-cylinder engines boasting an impressive estimated 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway fuel economy rating with the available six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC? and front wheel drive. Tucson features low rolling resistance silica tires to contribute to the 31 mpg highway. With AWD (All-Wheel Drive), Tucson delivers an estimated 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway exceeding the primary competitors AWD versions including Subaru Forester.

The Theta II is rated at 176 horsepower (26 percent more than its predecessor) and 168 lb.-ft. of torque. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both camshafts and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. In the green states, the 2010 Tucson is certified as a Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) which means it is as clean as a hybrid.

Powertrain Comparison

For the 2011 model year, Hyundai will introduce a high-mileage Blue model. The Blue model will be powered by a Theta II 2.0-liter engine that delivers better power and fuel economy than the 2009 Tucson Beta four-cylinder engine. The 2.0-liter Theta-II has shed over 22 pounds from its previous iteration. For better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, the 2.0-liter Theta-II also gets Dual CVVT (intake and exhaust camshaft phaser) while Theta-I was equipped with only CVVT on the intake camshaft. Major improvements also begin with the application of a two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) which enables switching between long and short intake manifold resulting in an across-the-board performance increase. To reduce internal friction, engineers have applied a Diamond-Like-Coating (DLC) to the top surface of the valve tappets resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Engineers also expended considerable time and effort optimizing the oil pressure to achieve an ideal balance between durability and fuel economy.

Tucson will join the Blue lineup of vehicles that includes Accent and Elantra. Tucson Blue will deliver outstanding fuel economy without adding hundreds of dollars to the price. In fact, the “Blue” model will be priced lower than other Tucson models, assuring it will be both efficient and economical. Hyundai is focused on achieving an excellent mpg-per-dollar ratio with the Tucson Blue model. Fuel-efficient modifications will likely include low-rolling-resistance tires, enhanced aerodynamics, revised engine calibrations and reduced final drive ratios to deliver even higher mileage and lower emissions. The new Tucson high mileage edition will be identified with unique “Blue” badging.


Fuel economy innovations

To help Tucson drivers get the most out of their vehicles, Hyundai added a standard trip computer and economy indicator. The trip computer provides distance to empty, average fuel consumption, average vehicle speed, elapsed time and instant fuel economy. The “Eco Indicator” on automatic transmission models nestled between the speedometer and tachometer displays a green LED light in accordance with fuel-efficient driving behavior. Fuel savings in the range of 15 to 17 percent are attainable with the automatic Eco Indicator. Manual transmission models have a shift indicator to inform drivers of the optimal time to upshift and downshift. Fuel savings in the range 7 to 9 percent are attainable with the manual Eco Gear Shift Indicator.

Further gains in fuel efficiency have been realized by the Motor-Driven Power Steering system which delivers excellent responsiveness and accurate handling.

Six-speed automatic and manual transmissions

Hyundai’s commitment to making the Tucson extremely fuel efficient continues with a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC? manual control or a standard six-speed manual transaxle.

Hyundai's all-new six-speed automatic transaxle helps the company meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature. Designed for transverse engine applications in passenger cars and SUVs, the new compact transmission puts Hyundai into an elite class of auto manufacturers who have designed their own proprietary six-speed automatic transmissions. The strength of the design is its unique layout which makes it smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed on the market today.

For the customer, the new six-speed delivers a performance edge. In this application (FWD/A/T), it helps bring a 24 percent gain in highway fuel economy (31 mpg versus 25 mpg in the ‘09).

There is no dipstick in the gearbox because it is filled with automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle under normal usage conditions, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

Developed over a four-year period, this new six-speed automatic is 26.4 pounds lighter than Hyundai’s five-speed. It also is 1.6 inches shorter and considerably simpler having 62 fewer parts, which is a key to increased durability, lighter weight and lower cost.

When it comes to transmissions, more gears are definitely better. The addition of a sixth gear enables closer spacing between gear ratios providing a better balance of performance and fuel economy while the wide overall gear ratio helps deliver strong acceleration.

The gearbox has three planetary gearsets and a unique flat torque converter which shortens the unit's overall length by 0.47 inches. Four pinion differentials improve durability and further minimize size.

Another example of engineering ingenuity is found in the design of the hydraulic pressure control unit. Because there are always slight manufacturing deviations from one solenoid valve to the next which cause fluctuation in the hydraulic pressure and affect shift precision and quality, the transaxle features cleverly integrated adjustment screws in the valves which enable each of the eight valves to be calibrated at the factory. This feature ensures stable hydraulic pressure at any shift point which facilitates a high degree of precision and control needed to deliver fast, smooth and precise shifts throughout the rpm range.


Capable for out-of-town travel

To make the Tucson even more versatile, Hyundai engineers added an advanced electronic AWD system designed by JTEKT. The AWD system will automatically activate under any driving condition when needed, distributing the power equally and optimizing driving performance. Under normal driving, the system only distributes power to the front wheels thereby reducing fuel consumption. The system includes a driver-selectable AWD lock allowing for a 50/50 torque split between the front and rear wheels for off-road and very slippery conditions.

For even more driver control, the 2010 Tucson features Hyundai’s first Hillstart Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Brake Control (DBC). HAC is designed to minimize rolling backwards on steep ascents. By selecting the DBC switch, the Hydro-Electronic Control unit manages the wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor and acceleration sensor to maintain control and speed on steep declines without having to use the brake. Neither of these controls are available on CR-V, Escape or Rogue and are typically found on luxury SUVs with much higher price tags.


Thoughtful interior design

Inside, the five-seat Tucson offers a commanding view of the road and evokes an adventurous ambience that is also laid-back and relaxing. The needs of the driver are fully accommodated, with the interior blending aspects of the outdoors and an urban lifestyle. For example, Hyundai’s first panoramic sunroof brings the outside “inside” for all passengers.

An X-shaped visual theme is repeated across numerous areas of the cabin while metal paint accents provide flashes of visual brilliance.

Shapely seats feature center panels trimmed in breathable fabric with attractive and functional cushion side bolsters, plus additional lateral support for occupants’ shoulders. On the insert of the cloth seats, there is a hexagonal pattern stitched into the fabric matching the new front grille design.

The long wheelbase and generous width of the Tucson, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading rear legroom and improved headroom. These improvements were accomplished while lowering the overall height of the vehicle. The Tucson now has more passenger volume than Rogue and Escape at 101.9 cubic feet. Tucson’s cargo capacity is 13 percent greater than its predecessor. In fact, Tucson has more interior volume than Acura RDX, and more cargo volume than Infiniti FX. The spacious cabin on Tucson Limited is further enhanced for all passengers by Hyundai’s first available panoramic sunroof with UV blocking. The front panel of the sunroof can either tilt open or open completely by sliding up and over the rear panel. An anti-pinch system guards against injuries. Finally, with the extra wheelbase length, Hyundai engineers were able to expand front seat tracks allowing taller drivers a comfortable seating position.

The high-tech cockpit comes standard with Hyundai’s signature blue lighting, power windows, power door locks, fold-away mirrors and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic button. Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition and steering wheel audio and cruise controls are also available. Another premium feature in the Tucson Limited is a CleanAir Ionizer that automatically cleans the air when the heater or air conditioner is running.

Other available features include leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, power driver seat with lumbar support, automatic headlights, side repeater exterior mirrors, front wiper de-icer and dual front automatic temperature control.

Audiophiles will love Tucson’s 160-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers. This system includes XM Satellite Radio? and iPod?/USB auxiliary inputs as standard equipment. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, which is located in the storage tray, 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 2010 Tucson can be further upgraded with an optional navigation system with rearview camera. Shifting into reverse automatically turns on the rear-view camera that provides a wide-angle view reducing the risk of accidents. This navigation system also provides Bluetooth streaming audio capability. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via a 6.5-inch LCD touch-screen or voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone. The voice recognition allows the user to control the navigation system, audio system and phone commands. The system comes matched with the 360-watt premium audio system that includes an external amplifier and subwoofer. It plays compact discs, accesses digital music files employing Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from a phone to the audio system. And with a Bluetooth-enabled phone, a local restaurant can be called for reservations before plotting the route. The XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos and real-time NavTraffic with detour function. XM Satellite Radio and NavTraffic service are complimentary for the first 90 days. Storage galore The 2010 Tucson features a total of 19 different storage places and drink holders:

• 
  
• Console storage tray
• Glove box
• Overhead sunglass storage
• Armrest storage compartment
• Two front seat drink holders
• Two rear center armrest drink holders
• Four bottle holders – one in each door
• Four map pockets – one in each door
• Two seatback pockets
• Cargo area storage tray
  

Not only does the Tucson feature all these storage options, but Hyundai engineers have improved them over the previous model. The center console has been enlarged to 370 cubic inches (an increase of 205 cubic inches). The height of the rear cargo screen has been raised by almost three inches for more storage, plus a tray has been added to keep things organized. The cargo area also features a dual-sided cargo floor with tough plastic on one side for messy items and carpet on the other. The bottle holders even have grips to make sure the bottle doesn’t tip over.
Advanced standard safety technologies : Part of Hyundai’s assurance commitment

The 2005 Tucson was the first Hyundai model to feature standard ESC (Electronic Stability Control) upon its launch in fall 2004. It was also the first vehicle under $20,000 with standard ESC and six airbags. The Tucson started Hyundai’s approach to combining state-of-the-art safety and affordability and this approach lives on in the 2010 Tucson. The Tucson is loaded with life-saving standard safety features including ESC with traction control, six airbags and active front head restraints. Its braking system features four-wheel disc brakes controlled by an advanced four-channel ABS with Brake Assist, providing maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to optimize brake performance with uneven weight distribution.

ESC compares the driver’s intended course with the vehicle’s actual response. If needed, ESC then brakes individual front or rear wheels and/or reduces engine power to help correct understeer or oversteer. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) studies show SUVs equipped with ESC experience 67 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes, and 63 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities. In addition, a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that ESC reduces the risk of all fatal collisions by 52 percent and the risk of fatal single-vehicle rollovers of SUVs by 80 percent.

The Tucson is engineered to provide its passengers with multiple defensive safety layers. The steel unibody has integrated crumple zones and a high-tensile front sub-frame designed to work together to reduce the forces that typically reach the passenger compartment. Particular attention has been paid to increasing the stiffness of the front side members which have been enlarged and straightened. Also, the center pillars serve as the anchors of a new ring structure which improves overall side structure stiffness while also creating more room for the door armrest and seat. All four doors also have internal guard beams to protect passengers in a side-impact collision.

The entire body shell has been made stiffer and lighter thanks to its extensive use of ultra-high tensile strength steel, which comprises 68.9 percent of the shell compared to its predecessor's 57.3 percent. Also, the use of Tailor Welded Blanks (TWB) has been expanded on key structural members. TWB assemblies combine steels of different thickness and grades using a sophisticated laser welding and stamping process to achieve an optimal stiffness-to-weight ratio. TWBs reduce body weight while enhancing crash energy management. These safety systems are expected to earn the 2010 Tucson NHTSA’s top five-star crash test rating for front and side impacts.

Tucson’s standard front-seat active head restraints help prevent whiplash by automatically reducing the space between a front occupant’s head and the head restraint during certain rear collisions and are highly recommended by safety organizations such as the IIHS.

The Tucson’s passenger restraint systems also help minimize injury. Three-point belts are provided at all five seating positions, and the front seatbelts have pretensioners and load limiters. There are two outboard rear Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child-seat anchors.

Elongated flush-mounted headlamps not only add a strong sense of style but also feature projector beam lenses for improved night-time driving safety. Side mirror housings have been modified to reduce wind noise and also feature an integrated repeater lamp for improved visibility on the Limited trim.

A total of six airbags are positioned in the Tucson’s interior. Dual advanced frontal airbags are complemented by front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags with new rollover sensors that cover both the front and rear seat rows. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 45 percent, according to the IIHS.

Tucson also features a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) which alerts drivers if one or more tires are under inflated. Warranty The 2010 Hyundai Tucson is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection,
10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Tucson buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages. Quiet cabin Extensive work was done to isolate sounds and eliminate vibrations. The all-new 2010 Tucson is discernibly quieter both at highway speeds and at idle than its predecessor. Booming noise is reduced thanks to a sub-frame dynamic damper while the rear luggage area gets extra soundproofing to isolate exhaust sounds. Road noise has been minimized by improving stiffness in the front and rear struts, rear trailing arm and the spring sheet. Engineering & manufacturing The Tucson is built in the Ulsan plant in South Korea. Known by the project name LM, the Tucson took 36 months and $225 million to develop. Tucson has been one of the most popular Hyundai models with more than one million units sold worldwide since its launch in 2004. Colors The 2010 Tucson is offered in nine colors with an optimum mix between lighter and darker colors to satisfy regional preferences. The colors are Cotton White, Diamond Silver, Graphite Gray, Ash Black, Garnet Red, Iris Blue, Aurora Blue, Chai Bronze and Kiwi Green. Three interior colors Black, Taupe and Saddle will be available. Availability Mass production of the Tucson started at the Ulsan factory for the United States market in October 2009 with sales starting in December 2009. Small CUV landscape Thanks to their all-around functionality and value, small crossover utility vehicle (CUV) sales are projected to grow at a rate far above the industry average through 2014. These CUVs are among the fastest growing segments on the market today due to their convenient size, car-like refinement and good fuel economy relative to larger SUVs. Fueling this growth are seven all-new model introductions through 2014. The Tucson with a host of unique and attractive features positions Hyundai front and center in this booming segment.

[Source : HYUNDAI]
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• The fleet includes Exeo ST, Altea XL, Alhambra and Leo'n CUPRA units
• SEAT is exhibiting its range of vehicles at the Palau Sant Jordi arena venue
• The World Touring Car champion Leo'n TDI WTCC will also be on display

MARTORELL : December 3, 2009 - SEAT will be the official car at the Davis Cup final being held on 4-6 December at the Palau Sant Jordi arena in Barcelona pitching Spain against the Czech Republic. With this action, the Spanish brand continues showing its support of leading sports competitions by providing the organizers with 30 vehicles from its sporty range of models to coordinate one of the most important events of the year.



SEAT is providing the organisers with the company's new Exeo ST estate car, the monospace Altea XL and Alhambra units and the sporty Leo'n CUPRA, which on this occasion will be displaying the colours of the SEAT Sport team, the triumphant World Touring Car Champions 2009 for the second year in a row in both the manufacturers' and drivers' categories.

Besides the fleet of support vehicles, SEAT will also be exhibiting its model line-up at the Palau Sant Jordi venue both on the concourse level inside as well as on the grounds, with the spectacular Leo'n TDI WTCC on display at the entry to the arena.

Lending its support to the Davis Cup final is part of SEAT's ongoing efforts to increase the company's visibility and image, such as sponsoring the UEFA Europa League.

[Source : SEAT]
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• Full details of Nissan Cube announced ahead of its UK launch in January
• Cute, quirky and perfectly formed, Cube offers iconic angular design
• Superbly equipped, exclusive urban superstar provides premium package without the baggage
• Simple line-up starting at ?14,000
• Cube named by the London Design Museum as one of the 50 cars that changed the world

SUNDERLAND : December 3, 2009 - Cube is the shape everyone will be talking about in 2010, as Nissan’s global cult car is set to take over the UK’s city streets.


Nothing about Nissan’s new Cube is conventional. Chic, classy, timeless design has never been provided in a less pretentious package. Turning its back on the average look-a-like model, the Cube offers a unique solution for 21st century drivers.


The Cube has been conceived as a totally different take on an automobile. From the ground up it challenges convention, placing function ahead of form. Inside there’s a lounge-style space for five with a clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space with a ‘Jacuzzi Curve’ layout offering a space for relaxing, travelling and socialising.

The curve-themed interior design is characterised by the subtle wavy shaping of the instrument panel, door panels, seat shapes, and the iconic ‘Water Drop’ that can be seen in the cupholders and the climate control design. They are inspired by nature and the calming way that ripples move outward from a drop in water.

A large triple-layered glass roof is fitted as standard, giving a light and airy atmosphere throughout the cabin. As well as the traditional blind to prevent heat build up on sunny days, there is a shoji shade, inspired by traditional Japanese shades made of rice paper which can be drawn across the sunroof, allowing light to enter but minimising heat build up.


This unique approach to design has not gone unnoticed in the design world. The Cube has been named one of the 50 cars that changed the world by the London Design Museum, adding further evidence to the Nissan’s case of being a true design icon in its own right.

Measuring only 3,980mm in length the Cube is designed to be the perfect urban transporter, with a wheel-at-each-corner design maximising interior space without compromising the compact external footprint. It’s beautifully functional: Nissan’s designers affectionately describe the Cube as a ‘bulldog in sunglasses’.

And in keeping with its relaxed approach to transport, there’s nothing on the Cube price list to stress out the urban driver. The simple model range has been designed to offer a straightforward choice. The line-up consists of only 2 grades, starting at £14,000. Each version provides a template for drivers to create their own, customised Cube using a range of accessories and tattoos.


Even though the angular Nissan has been a cult car in Japan since 1998 with over 1million sold to date, so far British drivers have been deprived of a Cube experience. To celebrate the Cube’s long awaited arrival in the UK, the first 100 examples sold will all be ‘LDN’ special editions, finished in a unique Bitter Chocolate colour with matching suede interior trim. Priced from £14,600, the LDN also comes with climate control, rain sensing wipers and auto headlamps as standard. The Cube is set to remain a cult phenomenon in its first year as only around 2,000 will find their way to the UK.

The standard Cube grade not only introduces iconic asymmetric design to your driveway, but also includes a glass roof, rear privacy glass and Bluetooth and cruise control. Spend a little more and you can upgrade to Kaizen trim. Available from £15,100, this adds the Nissan Connect audio and navigation system, a rear parking camera and full climate control to the lengthy standard equipment list.


The engine range is just as simple. Providing the perfect partner for every Cube buyer, Nissan’s 1.6-litre 108bhp petrol engine gives the Cube emissions as low as 151g/km and combined fuel economy as high as 42.8mpg. The only decision is whether to choose the sharp-shifting manual transmission or opt for Nissan’s advanced CVT. Anyone looking to minimise running costs over a higher mileage should look out for a frugal 1.5-litre diesel engine joining the Cube range in May.

Nissan’s UK MD, Paul Willcox comments: “We’re excited to finally bring the ultra-cool Cube to the UK. Here we have a car that will not only meet the functional requirements of a huge range of new car buyers, but also capture their imagination. It’s very well equipped, built to the highest quality standards and above all else, the Cube is different!”

Cube fans can find out more about the transport of tomorrow at www.cubelist.co.uk, where only those with a fine eye for design and style get their names onto the CubeList and gain exclusive access to the Nissan that breaks all the rules.


[Source : NISSAN]
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Hyundai introduced its all-new 2011 Sonata at the Los Angeles Auto Show. This marks the North American debut of the latest version of the popular midsize sedan, introducing Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language and an all four-cylinder engine lineup to the U.S. market.



HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2011 SONATA

• All-new sixth generation Sonata midsize sedan
• Fluidic Sculpture design
• All four-cylinder engine lineup
• Launches with new Theta II 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission
• 
  
  • Class leading fuel economy of 23 mpg city/35 mpg highway*
  • Class leading 198 horsepower standard* (200 horsepower on SE trim*)
    
  
  
• 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and Hybrid Blue Drive models to debut by 2010 year-end
• Production begins at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama in December with retail sales beginning in January
• XM Satellite Radio™, real-time XM NavTraffic, XM Data Services, HD Radio Technology™, Bluetooth^®, Touch-screen navigation and iPod^®/USB inputs
• 
  

Sonata is the second vehicle in Hyundai’s 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven new models in the next 24 months) following on the heels of the all-new Tucson. Production of Sonata will begin later this month at Hyundai’s U.S. plant in Alabama with retail sales beginning in January.

The 2011 Sonata represents a modern approach to the traditional midsize sedan segment by using only advanced four-cylinder engines, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. The 2011 Sonata poses some intriguing questions:

• Why can’t a smart, solid sedan also have modern, sleek, sophisticated style?
• Why pay so much to get a taste of luxury?
• Why can’t an efficient four-cylinder engine give V6 power
  

FLUIDIC SCULPTURE DESIGN LANGUAGE

Beginning with the 2011 Sonata and 2010 Tucson projects, Hyundai designers set to work about three and half years ago on Fluidic Sculpture. Fluidic Sculpture is a consistent, cohesive design language that will ripple through the entire Hyundai showroom. In developing the initial Sonata sketches, Hyundai designers considered the interplay of natural, fluid elements with more rigid surfaces and structures to create the illusion of constant motion. Inspired by nature, Fluidic Sculpture injects sophistication and dynamic angles into the shape of a vehicle and now serves as the core of Hyundai’s future design identity.

The exterior of the all-new Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent that spans the length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the new Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by 16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The sophisticated look continues inside where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance thanks to a flow-through center console and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers.


HYUNDAI PACKAGING EFFICIENCY

The sleek design, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, has produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. A sleek roofline typically compromises headroom and interior volume but, at 120.2 cubic feet, the Sonata has the most interior volume of its key competitors. It is so spacious, Sonata continues to be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a Large car, truly a “class above” Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as Midsize cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata’s 16.4 cu. ft. of trunk space gives it a 9.3 percent advantage over the Camry, and a 17.1 percent advantage over Accord.




ADVANCED POWERTRAINS

The new Sonata will launch with Hyundai’s new Theta II GDI 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) fuel delivery system, which contributes to improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Sonata is the first midsize sedan to adopt GDI technology as standard equipment in a naturally aspirated powertain. This shorter, more direct path of fuel delivery, allows for greater control of the fuel mixture at the optimum moment, thus improving efficiency. The fuel is injected by a camshaft-driven, high pressure pump that operates at pressures up to 2,175 psi. Direct injection also utilizes a higher than normal 11.3:1 compression ratio for increased power. The pistons are “dished” to increase combustion efficiency in the cylinder. This powerplant will deliver best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class four-cylinder horsepower and best-in-class torque.

Sonata delivers an impressive 23 mpg city/35 mpg highway estimated fuel economy rating* with the available six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC^®. (When equipped with the six-speed manual, the Sonata achieves an estimated 23 mpg city/34 mpg highway fuel economy rating). The preliminary horsepower and torque ratings for the Theta II GDI are 198 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. In the SE trim which includes a standard dual exhaust, the engine delivers 200 horsepower. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both camshafts and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A version of this engine also meets Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards.



Next year, Hyundai will add a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and a 2.4-liter Hybrid Blue Drive model featuring Hyundai’s breakthrough lithium polymer battery pack. Details about these powertrains will be announced at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Sonata’s innovative segment first powertrain lineup is a key driver of Hyundai’s goal to be the most fuel-efficient automaker on the planet.


SIX-SPEED AUTOMATIC AND MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS

Hyundai’s commitment to making the Sonata extremely fuel efficient continues with a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control or a standard six-speed manual transaxle.

Hyundai's all-new six-speed automatic A6MF2 transaxle helps the company meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature.

Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. The SE trim will also feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear being used.

Designed for transverse engine applications in passenger cars and SUVs, the new compact transmission puts Hyundai into an elite class of auto manufacturers who have designed their own proprietary six-speed automatic transmissions. The strength of the design is its unique layout which makes it smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed transmission on the market today.

For the customer, the new six-speed delivers a performance edge. In this application, it helps brings a nine percent gain in fuel economy (35 mpg* versus 32 mpg). The gearbox has no dipstick because it is filled with automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle under normal usage conditions, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

Developed over a four-year period, this new six-speed automatic is 26.4 pounds lighter than the five-speed it replaces. It also is 1.6 inches shorter and considerably simpler, having 62 fewer parts, which is a key to increased durability, lighter weight and lower cost.

When it comes to transmissions, more gears are definitely better. The addition of a sixth gear enables closer spacing between gear ratios providing a better balance of performance and fuel economy while the wide overall gear ratio helps deliver strong acceleration.

The gearbox has three planetary gearsets and a unique flat torque converter that shortens the unit's overall length by 0.47 inches. Four pinion differentials improve durability and further minimize size.

Another example of engineering ingenuity is found in the design of the hydraulic pressure control unit. Slight manufacturing deviations from one solenoid valve to the next often times cause fluctuation in the hydraulic pressure and affect shift precision and quality. The transmission featured in the Sonata cleverly integrates adjustment screws in the valves that enable each of the eight valves to be calibrated at the factory. This feature ensures stable hydraulic pressure at any shift point which facilitates a high degree of precision and control needed to deliver fast, smooth and precise shifts throughout the rpm range.


SUPPLE RIDE, AGILE HANDLING

An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system combines a supple ride with precise handling and steering response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Sonata uses MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems with increased travel for improved wheel control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs, fade-resistant gas-charged dampers and stabilizer bars. The suspension has been optimized to keep the vehicle flat during corning and provide quick turn-in response. The rear suspension uses aluminum components to reduce weight and improve suspension performance. The GLS and Limited models also use advanced low-rolling resistance tires to improve fuel economy while maintaining good ride and handling performance.

The Sonata SE is an even more exciting and willing partner for drivers who prefer sportier ride and handling dynamics. The sport-tuned suspension features stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, resulting in a 20 percent increase in roll stiffness. Unique SE dampers, including monotube shocks in the rear are used to control the more aggressive suspension. Low profile 18-inch tires round out the unique chassis components of the Sonata SE.

All Sonatas have column-mounted, motor-driven electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in. Sonata’s turning diameter of 35.8 feet is better than Camry, Accord, Altima, Fusion and Malibu.




WORLD CLASS POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO

One of the program targets for the 2011 Sonata engineering team was world-class power-to-weight ratio. Power-to-weight ratio pays dividends in both performance and fuel economy.



Sonata is rich in ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The 2011 Sonata is 25 percent stiffer in torsion and 19 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than its predecessor, yet it is lighter than many midsize sedans, also offering more interior room.

This focus on power-to-weight ratio pays dividends across the board. The Sonata owes its ability to deliver both strong performance and excellent fuel economy in great part to its impressive power-to-weight efficiency.


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

Sonata is built from the ground up with safety in mind, with a hot stamped ultra-high-strength steel body structure, advanced airbag technology and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), delivering on Hyundai’s commitment to both active and passive safety technology leadership. The prior generation Sonata was the first midsize sedan with standard ESC when it launched in March of 2005. ESC was not standard equipment on Honda Accord until the 2008 model year and the 2010 model year for Toyota Camry. Once again every 2011 Sonata has lifesaving ESC as standard equipment. This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.

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

Sonata features six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags—along with active front-seat head restraints. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is projected to earn the NHTSA’s top rating of five-stars for front and side impacts. Other passive safety features include shingle-style rear-seat head restraints for improved visibility, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front-seat seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a rear-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.


2011 SONATA OFFERS FOUR UNIQUE AUDIO ENVIRONMENTS

• 
  
• An AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers comes standard in the Sonata GLS and SE.
• AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation and Dimension^® premium sound with subwoofer and external amplifier is optional on the GLS and SE models.
• The Limited model comes standard with an AM/FM/XM/6-disc CD-changer/MP3 with HD Radio Technology and Dimension premium sound.
• The optional AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation that includes a 400-watt external amplifier system on the Limited comes with Infinity audio.
• 
  

DIMENSIONAUDIO SYSTEMS

Dimension is a new branded audio system created by Hyundai Mobis and features a Variable Equalizer with normal, dynamic and concert settings. The last generation equalizer provided only one fixed sound field. The new Variable Equalizer, tuned by renowned audiophile Ken Pohlmann, is a function for controlling the sound qualities sensed by listeners. For example, Pohlmann added bass response to the concert mode typically not found in other systems.


INFINITY^® AUDIO SYSTEM

Audio enthusiasts with even more demanding tastes will be impressed by the AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation that includes a 400-watt external amplifier, dedicated Dual Voice Coil (DVC) subwoofer, eight-channels and nine Infinity speakers available on the Limited. Infinity and Hyundai engineers worked together during the early stages of development to integrate the speakers into Sonata’s interior. The team spent hundreds of hours fine-tuning the system for the cabin’s unique acoustic attributes.

XM, HD RADIO TECHNOLOGY, BLUETOOTH AND TOUCH-SCREEN NAVIGATION DELIVER UNRIVALED MIDSIZE SEDAN TECHNOLOGY CHOICES

• 2011 Sonata comes standard with three months of XM Satellite Radio, real-time XM NavTraffic and XM Data Services
• Sonata also will be the first popular midsize sedan to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio Technology from the factory
• First vehicle in its class to offer a Bluetooth hands-free phone system standard
• Standard auxiliary iPod/USB inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit
  

Touch-screen navigation is available on all trim levels and includes a high-resolution screen. This system provides new features including Bluetooth streaming audio capability. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via 6.5-inch WVGA touchscreen or voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone.

The system features 8GB of flash memory and comes matched with a sound system that plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from select mobile phones to the head unit. Also, with a Bluetooth-enabled phone one can look up a local restaurant and call for reservations before plotting the route. The XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and XM Data services such as WX Satellite Weather^®, XM Stock Ticker and XM Sports Ticker. The system is also updateable via the USB.

* Preliminary estimate

[Source : HYUNDAI]
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LOS ANGELES, CA. : December 2, 2009 - Land Rover, the world's leading sport utility vehicle manufacturer, comes to Los Angeles with the North American debut of Range Rover Sport Autobiography Limited Edition. The limited-production vehicle will be on display with the full model line-up for press review December 2-3, and during the public show days December 4-13.



The award-winning Range Rover Sport line-up will feature a striking new Autobiography Package available in the 510-hp Supercharged edition offering added elegance and refinement for 2010. All seat surfaces are upholstered in new duo-tone leather, available in three color combinations. The front and rear headrests are embossed with a unique Autobiography Sport logo while the wood door inserts also bear this exclusive insignia. The Autobiography Package also includes the rear-seat entertainment system and HD radio offered in Range Rover Sport, as well as a distinctive Autobiography Sport badge on the tailgate. Electronic rear differential lock and adaptive cruise control are also part of the package.

Only 250 Autobiographies will be produced this year in Santorini Black. The exterior features body-colored lower door panels, front and rear bumpers with titan accents and an extended rear roof spoiler. A Titan mesh grille and side vents also enhance the Autobiography Package. Special 20-inch, 10-spoke Diamond-Turned alloy wheels and a distinguishing exhaust extension complete the exterior.


Autobiography - A Beneficiary of a Better Basis

The foundation for the Autobiography model - the updated 2010 Range Rover Sport - puts even more emphasis on driving dynamics over prior model years. From the new suspension that monitors the suspension at up to 500 times per second and adjusts to suit individual driving style, to the new Dynamic setting on the Terrain Response ™ system in the Supercharged model which provides heightened responsiveness during enthusiastic on-road driving, the new Sport feels much more agile, more athletic. Greater driver involvement comes with new paddle shifters to select gears manually when desired, revised steering, and more powerful brakes.

The Range:

• HSE $60,495 5.0-liter V8 375 hp/375 lb-ft 6-sp auto
• Supercharged $74,195 5.0-liter V8 510 hp/461 lb-ft 6-sp auto
• Autobiography $88,545 5.0-liter V8 510 hp/461 lb-ft 6-sp auto

(Prices are MSRP and include $850 destination and delivery charge)

Highlights:

• Greater focus on enhanced driving dynamics, more athletic performance
• All-new direct-injection 5.0-liter V8 engines
• New 5.0-liter supercharged V8 delivers a remarkable 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque with 0-to-60 mph acceleration in just 5.9 seconds
• New 5.0-liter naturally-aspirated V8 with 375 hp and 375 lb-ft generating
• 0-to-60mph acceleration in 7.2 seconds - just 0.1 sec. slower that previous Supercharged model
• High-efficiency, sixth-generation Eaton™ twin-vortex supercharger (Supercharged and Autobiography models)
• Both engines conform to stringent ULEV2 emissions regulations
• Striking new exterior design with new LED headlights, new two-bar grille, revised bumpers and new LED rear light clusters
• Vastly improved ride and handling with new Adaptive Dynamics System featuring precise new DampTronic Valve Technology ™ damper units (shocks) that read suspension movements 500 times per second and adjust to suit the driver
• New Dynamic program within Terrain Response™ system to deliver more sporting and responsive on-road driving experience
• New paddle shifters for Sport Supercharged (and Autobiography)
• Dramatic leap forward in interior quality, with finer materials and finishes; 50 percent fewer buttons and switches on dashboard

[Source : LAND ROVER]
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LOS ANGELES : December 2, 2009 - The Honda Personal-Neo Urban Transport (P-NUT) design study model demonstrates a futuristic concept for an ultra-compact and sophisticated city coupe, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.



Conceived around a small "footprint" for maximum convenience in tight urban settings, the packaging concept integrates a center driving position configuration and a rear powertrain layout. The exterior styling leverages crisp angles with dynamic flowing lines that originate from the front of the vehicle and span outward toward the rear. The end result is a sleek and aggressive exterior that also allows for a spacious and open interior with excellent visibility.

"A new generation is discovering the benefits of living in urban centers that provide convenient access to business, entertainment and social opportunities," said Dave Marek, director of advanced design for Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "The Personal-Neo Urban Transport concept explores the packaging and design potential for a vehicle conceived exclusively around the city lifestyle."

The exterior styling is intended to capture a future direction for premium sophistication while balancing the need for maximum interior space and an aerodynamic appearance. The interior layout, in conjunction with the rear powertrain design, contributes prominently to the exterior's overall shape.


The layout of the interior space, with its center driving position flanked by two rear seats, provides generous legroom for all occupants, roughly the equivalent of a mid-sized sedan in a vehicle that has an exterior footprint similar to a micro car. Interior functionality is increased by rear seating areas that fold up and out of the way to increase storage capacity. The windshield serves as a heads-up display for the navigation system and the back-up camera.

The modular rear engine bay, depicted on the exterior by blue composite material, is designed to accommodate a wide variety of potential propulsion technologies including a conventional small displacement internal combustion engine, a hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, or a battery-electric powertrain.


"The objective of the exterior and interior designers was to explore the potential for a new type of small-segment-category vehicle that overcomes many of the objections for existing micro-car designs," said Marek. "While the Honda P-NUT concept introduces function-oriented concepts, it also shows that small cars don't have to compromise on style or amenities."

The Advanced Design Studio of Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Los Angeles developed the P-NUT design study model. Honda R&D Americas began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 33 years to include all aspects of new vehicle research, design and development. Recent Honda-brand efforts include trend-setting products such as the Pilot, Ridgeline, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe.


Specifications

• Size class: Ultra-compact
• Layout: Rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive
• Passengers: 3
• Length: 3,400 mm
• Width: 1,750 mm
• Height: 1,439 mm
• Powertrain: Internal-combustion engine, hybrid-electric or battery-electric

[Source : HONDA]
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WOLFSBURG / LOS ANGELES : December 2, 2009 - Volkswagen – Europe’s strongest automotive brand – is setting standards worldwide when it comes to efficiency with its clean high-tech TDI and TSI engines. Now this is being followed up by latest coup at the Los Angeles Auto Show (December 4 to 13): the world premiere of the Up! Lite A progressive, fuel efficient and in all details cleverly designed four-seater with a hybrid drive. Combined fuel consumption: 2.44 l/100 km or 70 mpg/highway! No other car is more sustainable. With a drive concept consisting of a TDI (turbo-diesel), electric motor and 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) as well as top aerodynamics (Cd value: 0.237), Volkswagen is driving CO₂ emissions down to a sensational 65 g/km. This makes the three-door concept the world’s most fuel efficient car – and from the perspective of its overall CO₂ footprint the world’s most environmentally friendly four-seat car as well. Both technically and visually, the Up! Lite is a preview of the future. The image of the car body with its clean lines, as though sculpted from a block of aluminium, underscores just how fascinating a car tuned to aerodynamic perfection can look.



The ideal car for the daily commute to work

The technically challenging 2-Liter fuel consumption car might be launched globally. Many of the components of the 695 kilogram light Volkswagen are based on those of the future New Small Family, an entirely new model series that is already scheduled for market launch in initial countries at the end of 2011. The Up! Lite concept continues the Volkswagen strategy of offering high-tech and high-end quality in all of its vehicle classes, making progress affordable for every car driver. The Up! Lite was designed to be a versatile vehicle that makes trips into the city, commutes to work and naturally long trips as well significantly less expensive and more eco-friendly.

Hybrid drive enables electric driving

The centerpiece of the Up! Lite powertrain is the newly designed 0.8 TDI two-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with a power of 38 kW / 51 PS. Furthermore, the electric motor (10 kW) – designed as a pulse start module (starter, alternator and E-drive) – also reduces the load of the TDI, provides added propulsion (boosting) and works to recover kinetic energy (regenerative braking). During boost phases – e.g. in a quick passing maneuver – the TDI and E-motor combine for a total power of 48 kW / 65 PS. Incidentally, a version of the TDI used in the Up! Lite was also used aboard the L1 concept car that Volkswagen presented in September at the IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt.

In two of its operating phases, the hybrid drive of the Up! Lite was designed to operate without any TDI propulsion at all. First phase: In so-called coast-down, activated by the driver taking his or her foot off the gas pedal (car coasts, TDI engine is shut off). Second phase: Over shorter distances, e.g. in residential areas, the E-motor can power the Up! Lite all by itself. In this case, a lithium-ion battery supplies the energy. Since it is capable of pure electric driving, the configuration is classified as a full hybrid. Shifting work is handled by a 7-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) like the one used in the new Polo. Moreover, the Volkswagen is equipped with a Stop-Start system.


Comfort and safety without compromises

Naturally, on the Up! Lite there is nothing lacking in comfort or safety. ESP is on board, airbags are on board, ample space is on board, highly advanced information and control features are on board, and it is good to know that occupants are enclosed and protected by a highly innovative safety frame of aluminium, steel and carbon fiber. The Volkswagen concept has a top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph) and accelerates to 100 km/h in a respectable 12.5 seconds (0-60 mph in 12 seconds).

"Made in Germany"

Overall, the Up! Lite is a prime example of the art of innovative engineering with the "Made in Germany" seal. And indeed not only because of its efficient powertrain and lightweight body construction. Other examples include: The radiator grille that closes and opens automatically depending on the cooling needs of the engine ("active thermal management"); and instead of a classic rearview mirror, three cameras perform this job better and more aerodynamically; when the car is parked in the summer, hot air is vented to outside the vehicle ("passive park ventilation"); an "optimized Easy-Entry feature" enables extremely comfortable entry and exit from the rear seating area; longitudinal adjustments to the driver and front passenger seats automatically adjusts seat height as well; when folding the rear bench seat, the seatback is easily unlatched by folding the rear head restraints forward ("Easy Switch"); many vehicle features (including ventilation, Internet, telephone, MP3, video, telephone, trip computer, radio) are controlled centrally via an intuitive touchscreen with hand movement sensors.


Design of the world of tomorrow

Even the most innovative car must look good to really be fun. And the Up! Lite with its "Liquid Blue Metallic" exterior is fun. That is because the 3.84 meter long, 1.40 meter tall and 1.60 meter wide Up! Lite makes a futuristic, bold and – in its form – very independent appearance. It is a car that looks as though it were cast from a single mould. Compared to the E-Up! concept car presented at the 2009 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, it is lower in profile and – to satisfy even more demanding aerodynamic requirements – it is longer, nearly reaching the length of the Polo (3.98 meters).

The styling itself portrays a compact vehicle that genuinely reflects its sustainable drive system and overall progressive concept. At the rear, the Up! Lite has the appearance of a distinctive hatchback sports car. As a result, the broad shoulder section is definitely reminiscent of the Scirocco. Furthermore, the look of the lower area is dominated by the large glass surface of the hatch, the LED rear lights and the rear fog lights (c-shaped) integrated in the bumper in typical Up! style. The counterparts of these lights are found in the front bumper as front fog lights. The car’s side profile has clean styling with markedly smooth surfaces. There are no edges except for the upper tornado line, the wheel wells and a connection line integrated there. The side cameras that replace the outside mirrors look like winglets on the wings of a cargo plane. A novel stylistic and technical feature: the 18-inch wheels are produced from a combination of aluminium and carbon fiber. That is because sports appeal and fuel economy do not need to be mutually exclusive.


Already thinking about tomorrow today

By the way: In Europe, Volkswagen is currently demonstrating that minimal fuel consumption can be realized in all segments today, in the latest versions of the Polo (3.3 l/100 km; 58 mpg/highway), Golf (3.8 l/100 km; 51 mpg/highway) and Passat (4.4 l/100 km; 48 mpg/highway).


[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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TOKYO : December 3, 2009 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has decided to name its all-new compact crossover the RVR. This all-new compact crossover is planned for sequential release globally, and will be first released in Japan next spring.


The all-new RVR is a compact crossover that provides high environmental efficiency and has a compact body while providing ample utility space and high performance.


The RVR will be fitted with an all-new 1.8L MIVEC petrol engine, and will be approximately 4.3 meters in length, featuring high fuel efficiency via its lightweight compact body. With the RVR, MMC expands its crossover lineup, which already includes the full-size Pajero, and the mid-size Outlander.

This new compact crossover will be released globally, including North America, Europe, and Asian regions including China.

[Source : MITSUBISHI]
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CHATSWORTH, Calif.: December 2, 2009 - Capstone Turbine Corporation is pushing traditional hybrid electric vehicle barriers with the introduction of the CMT-380, a high performance hybrid electric supercar powered by traditional batteries and an untraditional ultra low emission range extending microturbine, which is essentially like having an ultra-clean and quiet jet engine under the hood. The supercar, which is in the design and test phase, was developed in partnership with Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman.


The prototype hybrid electric supercar with microturbine technology will debut at the LA Auto Show Dec. 2-13.

"The sleek-looking, low to the ground, high-performance supercar definitely raises hybrid's cool factor on several levels," stated Jim Crouse, Capstone's Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "The CMT-380's design performance numbers speak for themselves: 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, 150 mph top speed, and an unheard-of driving range of up to 500 miles on a single tank of fuel, all with ultra-low exhaust emissions that rival any hybrid on the market today," added Crouse.

The concept for the high performance hybrid electric microturbine vehicle was developed by Electronic Arts Chief Creative Director Richard Hilleman, creator of popular video games, with support from Capstone Turbine, the world's leading clean technology manufacturer of microturbine energy systems.

Capstone and Hilleman's microturbine enabled hybrid supercar features a Capstone C30 (30-kilowatt) microturbine that runs on diesel or biodiesel, which is housed inside a sleek Factory Five Racing GTM body. The Capstone C30 microturbine is so clean it does not require any exhaust after treatment to meet stringent clean air requirements of the California Air Resources Board or EPA 2010.

The CMT-380 features lithium-polymer battery cells that can be charged at home or at a public recharging station. While driving, the sports car can operate on 100 percent battery power in zero emissions mode for a range of up to 80 miles. When the batteries reach a predetermined state of discharge, the Capstone C30 microturbine quietly fires up and recharges the batteries on the fly to extend the driving range up to 500 miles. The diesel fueled C30 microturbine requires less maintenance than traditional combustion engines and produces ultra-low exhaust emissions.

"Capstone's CMT-380 is just now finishing up the conceptual design and first article testing stage," said Darren Jamison, Capstone President and CEO. "We plan to finalize very soon a limited production plan, in part, based on interest received at the LA Auto Show. We anticipate customers will be a select group of individuals who appreciate its many innovative high-performance and high-technology driving characteristics, long driving range and ultra-low emissions," added Jamison.

"Not only does this car look great and is fun to drive, but its low-maintenance, high-efficiency turbine engine makes it a stress-free, no compromise hybrid," said Richard Hilleman, CMT-380 co-creator. "The CMT-380 is perfect for people who want it all. These kinds of customers value a high level of driving performance but also are concerned about social issues such as reducing greenhouse emissions and limiting our country's dependence on foreign oil," added Hilleman.

Hybrid Electric Cars One of Many Applications of Microturbine Technology Worldwide

Capstone Turbine is the world's leading producer of clean-and-green, highly efficient and reliable microturbines. Capstone's 30-kilowatt microturbines have been installed in hybrid electric buses, trolleys and transit shuttles around the world, including hybrid buses operating today in U.S. cities like New York, Baltimore and Charlotte, and internationally in London, Tokyo, Paris, Rome and Auckland, reducing greenhouse emissions and extending the range of these state of the art hybrid electric vehicles.

"The vehicle market is not a new market for Capstone," Jamison said. "In fact hybrid electric vehicle applications have always been part of Capstone's vision since the company was founded back in 1988. The first microturbines Capstone designed and built were integrated into automotive applications. But like all new technologies, timing is everything and our initial hybrid design for cars was ahead of its time and the company turned to the more mature stationary power markets. Now, more than two decades later, hybrid electric vehicles are gaining interest in the market and people are taking another look at microturbines as electric vehicle battery chargers and for public charging stations," added Jamison.

Earlier this year, a C30 liquid-fueled microturbine was successfully integrated into a Ford S-Max people carrier in the United Kingdom by Langford Performance Engineering Ltd. You can see more information about the Langford Whisper hybrid electric microturbine vehicle at http://www.capstoneturbine.com/news/story.asp?id=512.

"The Capstone CMT-380 is a fun hybrid car with tremendous performance. Although it is not in Capstone's business plan to start manufacturing complete cars, the limited production CMT-380 and Langford Whisper hybrid demonstration vehicle are intended to showcase the technology and demonstrate value proposition of microturbines as electric vehicle range extenders," added Jamison. "Both Capstone and Langford have been in discussions with automotive industry companies, and these concept and demonstration vehicles help showcase the technology and generate public awareness of the benefits of microturbine technology."

Capstone has shipped over 5,000 microturbines worldwide which are able to produce energy ranging from 30 kilowatts up to 5 megawatts and are supplying power at sites around the world, including office buildings, hospitals, hotels, universities, oil and gas applications, landfills, waste water treatment plants, farm digesters, industrial manufacturing operations and others.

Capstone microturbines can run on a variety of fuels, including natural gas, waste methane from landfills, biodiesel, diesel, kerosene and propane. Microturbine efficiency increases when used in Combined Heat and Power (CHP) and Combined Cooling Heat and Power (CCHP) applications that utilize waste heat energy produced by the microturbines to recapture and heat water or buildings, or run through an absorption chiller to create air conditioning.

What is a Microturbine?

The CMT-380's 30-kilowatt microturbine features an electric generator and turbine components mounted on a single shaft, which is supported by air bearings -- so there are no liquids to lubricate or cool the microturbine. It uses a patented combustion system to achieve extremely low exhaust emissions that do not require expensive exhaust after treatm

[Source : Capstone Turbine Corporation]
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• The all-new Ford Fiesta arrives with a responsive 1.6-liter DOHC I-4 engine, featuring Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) to deliver the optimum balance of power and fuel efficiency
  
• Fiesta offers buyers a choice between an advanced PowerShift six-speed automatic or traditional five-speed manual transmission
  
• Fiesta brings European road holding and sharp handling characteristics to redefine North American small car driver expectations

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 2, 2009 – Ford Fiesta arrives with a sophisticated drivetrain – striking a balance between responsive and responsible – delivering both European driving dynamics and projected 40 mpg highway fuel economy to challenge the North American small car status quo.

“The Fiesta powertrain redefines performance, fuel economy and flexibility for the small car segment,” said Barb Samardzich, vice president of Ford global powertrain engineering. “The Fiesta delivers a fun-to-drive experience that will set it apart from the competition.”



Power to the people

The Ford Fiesta’s 1.6-liter DOHC I-4 engine delivers an estimated 119 horsepower and 109 ft.-lb. of torque, giving customers responsive performance. Big results from a small package are possible with several new technologies in this new, global engine.

Fiesta features Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) which allows the engine to be downsized for fuel economy while continuously optimizing camshaft phasing for throttle response, performance and flexibility.

Ti-VCT gives variable – yet precise – control of valve overlap or the duration of time in which both intake and exhaust valves are simultaneously open. Valve overlap management by sophisticated controller mechanisms is critical to eliminating intake and exhaust flow compromises.

This technology also optimizes phasing on both intake and exhaust camshafts by spinning them ever so slightly to advance or retard valve timing, resulting in improved throttle response at initial throttle tip-in, reduced emissions at part throttle and enhanced efficiency at higher rpm. The outcome is more power, responsiveness and fuel efficiency from less overall cylinder displacement.

During development of this global engine measures were taken to keep overall powertrain weight as low as possible.

The block, cylinder head and oil pan – traditionally the heaviest engine components – are aluminum castings. To increase rigidity, these elements are ribbed for additional strength and durability. Pistons are cast aluminum, as well, with the light weight helping to reduce reciprocating mass and adding to fuel efficiency.

Composite material is employed to keep intake manifold weight to an absolute minimum while allowing for induction routing to increase thermal efficiency and improve low-end torque characteristics.

Another Fiesta powertrain innovation is the new Front End Accessory Drive (FEAD) belt with stretchy dynamics, to improve the engine’s thermal properties. The elasticity in this new drive belt eliminates the need for a tensioning device. This decreases under-hood complexity and weight, helps increase fuel economy, and eases belt replacement at specified mileage intervals.


Transformational transmission

Fiesta launches with an all-new, North American industry-exclusive PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission combining the responsive performance of a manual shift with the convenience of a traditional automatic.

Fiesta’s PowerShift transmission gives better fuel efficiency than a traditional torque convertor automatic or manual shift transmission.

“PowerShift is a transmission that changes the game,” said Samardzich. “Our fuel economy leader is now a PowerShift automatic. Traditionally, a small car driver needed a stick shift and a clutch pedal to enjoy the greatest fuel efficiency.”

Twin internal clutches keep the PowerShift in constant mesh, continuously optimizing for maximum responsiveness and fuel efficiency, depending on engine speed, vehicle speed and input from the driver’s foot on the accelerator pedal.

PowerShift is a dual dry clutch transmission, operating with sealed internal lubrication, reducing friction and adding to Fiesta’s fuel economy. The lack of pumps and hoses reduces complexity, saves weight and contributes to fuel efficiency.

Simpler, more responsive and more fuel efficient than a conventional four-speed automatic transaxle, PowerShift represents an innovative small car breakthrough.


Do-it-yourself alternative

For some small car drivers, the experience isn’t complete without being given the choice of shift points.

Fiesta offers customers a standard five-speed manual transaxle with the ideal combination of gearing to provide swift acceleration from rest, responsive power at mid-range speeds and relaxed highway cruising in the overdrive fifth gear. Hydraulic actuation makes for smooth engagement with an easy-to-modulate clutch pedal, reduces the potential for slip and helps fuel economy.

Fuel-efficient power steering, with benefits

Fiesta features Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), which decreases complexity, saves weight and improves fuel economy by significantly reducing parasitic drag on the engine in comparison to traditional hydraulic power-assisted steering. EPAS is speed-sensitive, providing optimized assist based on vehicle speed, steering wheel angle, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration.

For the Fiesta application, EPAS is tuned to provide an engaging driver experience.

EPAS enables Pull-Drift Compensation to help Fiesta track true. This software-based technology detects road conditions – such as a crowned road surface or blustery crosswinds – and adjusts the EPAS system to help the driver compensate for the pulling and drifting these conditions can cause. Pull-Drift Compensation is designed to be imperceptible to the Fiesta driver.

In addition, EPAS enables Active Nibble Cancellation. This technology senses for irregularity in wheel balance and the related steering wheel vibration – or “shimmy” – it can cause. Like Pull-Drift Compensation, Active Nibble Cancellation is designed and integrated to be seamless and unnoticeable to the driver while sensing and compensating for rotational oscillations due to wheel balance issues or uneven brake rotor wear.


Euro dynamics

The front-wheel-drive Ford Fiesta features MacPherson Strut front suspension. Tuned front shock absorbers – combined with a 22-mm front stabilizer bar – work in harmony with the EPAS system to preserve Fiesta’s European road holding and handling dynamics.

In addition, Fiesta features a twist-beam rear axle that provides the optimum combination of responsive handling, smooth ride and excellent space utilization. Specially tuned rear shock absorbers complete the package. Like its European and Asian counterparts, the North American Ford Fiesta features front disc and rear drum brakes with ABS functionality.

Depending on series level, Fiesta offers 15- and 16-inch wheel options, fitted with grippy, all-season tires. A 17-inch Ford Racing wheel package is offered as well.

Fiesta’s powertrain and driving dynamics combine to provide the ideal balance between exceptional fuel economy – up to a projected 40 mpg highway – and responsive performance with world-class handling and responsiveness.



[Source : FORD]
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ROLLE, Switzerland : December 2, 2010 – A more dynamic look and revised interior, with state-of-the-art infotainment technology available, take the Infiniti G37 Saloon into a new decade with more presence and quality than ever. Announced today, the 2010 version of Infiniti’s lead-in sports model for Europe remains just as potent, poised and well equipped as before, but benefits from enhancements that bring it into line with other Infiniti models as well as responding to feedback from Infiniti owners.



The changes are subtle but effective – as one glance at the sharper new front-end styling reveals. More sculptural, more distinctive and more indicative of the 320 PS (316 bhp) under the bonnet of every G37, the new look moves the Saloon visually closer to its sportier two-door cousin, the G37 Coupé.

New front light clusters – still with bi-Xenon adaptive cornering headlights as standard – and a fresh-looking iteration of the familiar double-arch Infiniti grille are the main component changes, proving the rightness of the original design. A redesigned under-bumper section with recessed, wide-set foglights (previously the fogs were set into the main light clusters) gives the 2010 G37 Saloon a more purposeful edge to its already striking visual impact.


The rest of the G37 Saloon’s body is untouched. Which is good news for fans of its trademark long bonnet, raked-back A pillars and athletic stance that projects power and grace in equal measure.

Changes in the cabin are just as subtle but equally tailored to meeting owners’ expectations. For instance, the Rosewood interior accents are now high gloss, the leather hues slightly lighter and there’s the option of a new Wheat leather colour combined with a black dashboard and upper door trims. Reinforcing the G37’s impression of quality is a new aluminium trim design, reminiscent of Japanese calligraphy, along with a redesigned centre console based on that in the EX and FX crossovers. Improving both legibility and design cohesiveness, the gauges and LCD instrument display now use white as background colour.

For the first time, Infiniti’s much-praised information and entertainment platform, Connectiviti, is available in the Saloon following on from its G37 debut in the Convertible earlier in the year.


Notable for its all-embracing functionality and user-friendliness, the HDD (hard disk drive) based system connects all manner of modern technology, from MP3 players to mobile phones, with seamless efficiency. Connectiviti+ takes things a stage further with a 30GB Music Box and innovative satellite navigation system which, among its long list of functions, can even access built-in Michelin’s Red and Green Guides to take you to the door of a top restaurant or hotel.

Three new exterior colours are available for 2010 models: Smokey Quartz, Graphite Shadow and Vibrant Red. All are Scratch-shield paint, of course. Other features unique to the G37 Saloon are its charismatic V6 with VVEL valve technology and its chassis options of rear-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and four-wheel steer for the most sporting S version.

Pricing and specification of the 2010 G37 Saloon will be confirmed early in the new year prior to sales beginning in the Spring.

[Source : INFINITI]
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ROLLE, Switzerland : December 2, 2009 -- A new style of performance saloon -- brimming with passion, craftsmanship and driver appeal -- comes to Europe in 2010 as the world's newest luxury automotive brand Infiniti faces up to the traditional executive car hierarchy for the first time. Power, performance and technology all come together with signature Infiniti sophistication in the all-new Infiniti M Line which makes its official public debut in the USA today, prior to European sales starting next September.



Featuring industry-first features, advanced Safety Shield technology and displaying Infiniti's unswerving commitment to passionate design and a rewarding drive, Infiniti's latest example of Inspired Performance will be the first M to be available in all of Infiniti's 34 world markets -- including Western Europe.

A more exclusive alternative to the traditional stalwarts of the executive class, such as the BMW 5-series and Mercedes E-class, the M Line goes on sale in European showrooms from September 2010 with petrol and diesel V6 power options, while an innovative petrol-electric hybrid is due to join the range in Europe in 2011.

The M Line takes Infiniti's saloon range in Europe -- which also includes the G37 - to a higher new level, inside, outside and on the road, too. The Infiniti M combines rear-wheel-drive poise with impeccable luxury credentials in a 4945mm-long saloon with space to spare inside the best designed and finished cabin that Infiniti has ever offered. As flagship saloon for the brand, the M Line also revels in the uniqueness that is Infiniti, from the flowing lines of the Essence concept car-inspired profile and the integrity of the natural materials used, to the pledge of an utterly hassle-free ownership experience.

Infiniti's most technologically advanced and beautiful saloon yet, the third-generation M will bring with it to Europe its unimpeachable reputation for quality among American luxury car-buyers. Every M model will also arrive designed and equipped to succeed in some of the world's toughest executive car markets, blending qualities that have made it a popular car in the US with the high-performance abilities needed to compete on European roads.

The new M Line has been able to call on key Infiniti strengths in order to satisfy more demanding drivers. These include lightweight componentry, adaptive technology, race-bred engine design, sophisticated chassis design with almost perfect weight distribution and proven double-wishbone suspension with the availability in some models of Infiniti's acclaimed sports handling technology, 4-Wheel Active Steering (4WAS). To the benefit of looks, ride and cabin room, the M also benefits from one of the longest wheelbases in the class.

The new Infiniti M has its first outing -- in the metal -- at an unveiling in Beverly Hills, California, today (December 1) prior to US sales commencing in the spring. An earlier debut, in August this year, was as a "virtual" car created in 3D by video mapping -- presaging a trend for "firsts" that the new M Line is well placed to expand upon.

Technology highlights being introduced to European buyers by the Infiniti M in more detail:

Blind Spot Intervention (BSI)

The latest in a list of world-first safety features from Infiniti, BSI takes blind-spot technology to another level by introducing an element of side collision protection. As well as giving the driver both visual and audible warnings of another vehicle in the blind-spot area which is detected by using radar, BSI intervenes if the driver ignores the warnings and attempts to steer into the other vehicle's path. The intervention is in the form of a directional adjustment, executed automatically. This is achieved by selective braking on one side of the car to create a "yaw" effect that eases the vehicle back into its original lane.

Active Noise Control (ANC)

By identifying undesirable sounds in the cabin and then playing back through the speakers sound waves of opposite phase, the original noises are cancelled out, making the M's interior a quieter, more restful place to be. The system is aimed at reducing undesirable low-frequency engine sounds only. M models with the 16-speaker Bose? Studio Surround? sound system are equipped with Bose Engine Harmonic Cancellation (EHC) which is even more effective at controlling unwanted noises.

Infiniti Drive

The M's throttle sensitivity and transmission mapping are fine tuned according to which of four driver-selectable modes is engaged via a switch positioned behind the gear lever: Standard, Eco, Sport and Snow. The Eco mode utilizes green and yellow lights on the instrument panel to provide feedback on fuel efficiency. Eco mode also introduces a new Infiniti concept known as the Eco Pedal. If driving too aggressively, the driver will feel the accelerator pedal "push back" to indicate fuel is being wasted. Sport mode changes the automatic shift points and enhances throttle response for increased performance. It will also adjust the 4WAS for a nimbler feel and raise the ESP intervention level.

Forest Air

Infiniti believes the quality of the air within a car's cabin has a direct bearing on the well-being of driver and passengers. Which is why it developed Forest Air, Infiniti's most advanced climate control system that makes its debut in the M Line (depending on model). The system offers unrivalled temperature, humidity and pollution control while re-creating the gentle breezes and subtle scents of an environment known to promote alertness and relieve stress: the forest.

ESP with Dynamic Cornering Enhancement

The M Line benefits from Infiniti's latest electronic stability program which optimizes control of braking and engine torque on individual wheels to achieve smoother and more stable cornering. The system can apply selective braking to help create increased steering response when rapid changes of direction are required, such as in S bends or fast lane-change manoeuvres.

Safety Shield

For the 2011-model year M Line, Infiniti's 360-degree "bubble of protection" around the car known as the Safety Shield becomes more complete than ever. New features such as Blind Spot Intervention and Dynamic Cornering Enhancement are fully integrated into existing Safety Shield technology such as Intelligent Cruise Control (full speed range), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

INFINITI M LINE IN DETAIL

The body

The M's design is signature Infiniti, its subtle curves and complex surfacing endowing it with an emotional draw that goes beyond the colder, more austere class norm. Its deeply sculpted door surfaces and front bumper section add distinction and a sense of both aggression and intrigue. The body crease below the glasshouse is the clearest of many design cues picked up from Essence, the stunning Infiniti concept car that made its debut at the Geneva Auto Show early in 2009.

To the benefit of both performance and efficiency, the M is adept at carving through the air. Its drag coefficient is a mere 0.27 and the body has been designed for zero lift at the front and rear for increased high speed stability. As with other Infiniti models, the M is equipped with lightweight aluminium doors, bonnet and boot lid (as well as an all-alloy V6 engine).

The M uses the advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform that positions the engine behind the front axle resulting in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance for naturally stable and rewarding handling. Suspension is double-wishbone in front and multi-link at the rear, along with front and rear anti-roll bars. The standard wheel size is 18-inch. For the sportiest models, 20-inch wheels, new double-piston shock absorbers, special suspension settings, 4-piston brakes and 4-Wheel Active Steering are all available.

The M37 is powered by the charismatic 3.7-litre VVEL V6 petrol engine also used in other Infiniti models in Europe. All alloy and of tried and trusted motor racing-style ladder-frame construction, power and torque are unchanged, at 320 PS (316 bhp) and 360 Nm (266 lb ft) of torque. Standard on every M is Infiniti's seven-speed Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) automatic transmission -- complete with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Drive Sport (DS) mode for full manual control via the available solid magnesium shift paddles behind the steering wheel. Performance data is yet to be confirmed.

Infiniti will release more information about the V6 diesel version during 2010.

A look inside

The new Infiniti M has an interior every bit as carefully crafted as its exterior. The result of extensive research by engineers and designers into every aspect of the cabin, from the shape of the switches to the softness of the textures, the aim was to create Infiniti's best saloon car interior ever, with human warmth and an outstanding level of luxury appointments. And all with that most important of Infiniti traits: a clear focus on the driver.

Mission accomplished then. The M cabin's wow factor begins as soon as a door is opened: there can be no missing the perception of quality in everything that is seen, touched and felt -- right down to the smallest details. Combining vibrant, Japanese-influenced design and luxury materials, it is an immediately alluring, sensual place, as well as notably spacious. The M's wheelbase, at 2900mm, is longer than that of most competitors and this shows inside where there is plenty of room for five adults.

Attention to detail inside takes many forms. Handcrafted wood accents, for example, have been treated with a unique powdered silver for a mirror-like finish that takes tradition into a modern age. The standard leather is quilted, but for those who want an even more sumptuous finish there's the availability of semi-aniline leather. Distinctively textured aluminium highlights and, as standard, piano black trim make the cabin especially inviting.

The signature Infiniti dashboard clock -- always analogue -- is reinvented in rectangular form, an elegant touch at the centre of the imposing new dashboard that blends luxury with technology in seamless fashion. The new dashboard also demonstrates Infiniti's commitment to ergonomic excellence. The instrument panel features "Fine Vision" electroluminescent gauges and logically grouped controls for maximum ease of use. In addition, with the M Line, Infiniti is introducing a bespoke new generation of switchgear.

Although prices, range structure and standard specifications are yet to be confirmed for European markets, the M is expected to follow in the tyre tracks of the G, EX and FX Lines in offering exceptional levels of standard equipment. Available features include climate control seats, bi-Xenon adaptive front lighting, premium Bose sound system, 10-way power adjusted heated leather front seats, heated steering wheel and the all-embracing Connectiviti+ multimedia platform with 8-inch VGA colour touch-screen display for the hard disk drive navigation which includes -- uniquely -- the Michelin Green Guide with information on hotels, restaurants, places of interest and even scenic driving routes.

Infiniti M37: technical specification

• Model: M37
• Engine: 3.7-litre VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) petrol V6
• Transmission: 7-speed Adaptive Shift Control automatic, rear-wheel drive
• Power: 320 PS (316 bhp)
• Torque: 360 Nm (266 lb ft)
• Suspension: Double wishbone front, multilink rear
• Brakes: ABS with Brake Assist and EBD
• Steering: Vehicle-speed sensing rack and pinion
• Coefficient of drag: Cd 0.27
• Length: 4945mm
• Wheelbase: 2900mm
• Width: 1844mm
• Height: 1501mm

[Source : INFINITI]
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STUTTGART/WOKING : December 2, 2009 – The last examples of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Stirling Moss are currently being built, bringing the active era of the SLR super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and McLaren to an end. In 2004, with the swing-wing Coupé, Mercedes-Benz and McLaren jointly set out to continue the story of the legendary SLR racing sports cars of the 1950s. Five exciting variants in the SLR family have been produced – two coupés, two roadster versions and finally the uncompromisingly purist SLR Stirling Moss. This breathtaking, high-speed racer is a limited edition of 75 examples, and is the final chapter in the modern SLR story. Overall 2000 SLR models have been produced – substantially more than any other sports car in this elite category. An SLR also represents a membership ticket to the SLR. CLUB. The spirit of the SLR will live on in this exclusive community of gentleman-drivers even after production ceases.


Three letters are all it takes to make car fans go into raptures: SLR. On paper, the legendary name simply stands for "sporty", "light" and "raceworthy". But, for connoisseurs, this magical combination of letters designates a dream car of special standing, promising unequalled driving enjoyment – a unique symbiosis of outstanding dynamics, superior performance and exceptional comfort.

In January 2009 Mercedes-Benz presented the most spectacular and uncompromising version of the reinterpreted 300 SLR as the last model in the SLR family - the SLR Stirling Moss. With neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and front passenger from nature, allowing them to enjoy sheer high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster. Further attributes of the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Stirling Moss include highly sophisticated technology and breathtaking design that provides a new take on the SLR legend. A V8 supercharged engine developing 478 kW (650 hp) accelerates the SLR Stirling Moss from zero to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and is good for a top speed of 350 km/h – performance that no other standard-production car can match. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a worthy and legitimate bearer of the name of British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss, who piloted the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars to a succession of victories in the 1950s.The SLR Stirling Moss accompanied by the 300 SLR and members of the SLR. CLUB celebrated its maiden journey at this year's Mille Miglia, in the hands of the former Mercedes Formula 1 drivers Mika Häkkinen and David Coulthard. Sir Stirling Moss himself had even made a return to Brescia to be an eye-witness to this historic event. The SLR Stirling Moss is a limited edition of 75 examples, and production of the SLR series will then cease at the end of 2009.

The SLR spirit lives on

The SLR project was conceived for a limited period, and as a limited edition, from the very start, and is now coming to a magnificent, entirely fitting end with the SLR Stirling Moss. The SLR spirit lives on, however, and will be perpetuated by the enthusiastic members of the SLR. CLUB. In addition to a passion for driving, the members of this exclusive community of gentleman-drivers, all of whom have an SLR model in their garages, share a discerning, sophisticated lifestyle and the enjoyment of encounters with like-minded enthusiasts. The high-quality event calendar of the SLR. CLUB includes driving events on the most demanding race circuits, participation in the Mille Miglia and tours covering the most picturesque routes in Europe. Individual, long-term backup and care at the very highest level for SLR. CLUB members is assured by dedicated Mercedes-Benz personnel well beyond the end of production.

The birth of a legend

The SLR legend was born in 1955, when Rudolf Uhlenhaut, then head of passenger-car testing and in charge of racing-car development at Mercedes-Benz, transformed a fascinating idea into reality. He combined the design and technology of the spectacular Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" model produced since 1954 with the outstanding characteristics of the 300 SLR, one of the most successful racing machines of all time, which at that time dominated all the major road races – above all the notorious Tourist Trophy in Northern Ireland and the two Italian classics: Targa Florio and Mille Miglia. Here Stirling Moss and Dennis Jenkinson piloted the racing Mercedes to victory in a record time that still stands to this very day. But the Brits were not the only ones to achieve success in the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR. Juan Manuel Fangio, who went on to become Formula-1 World Champion five times, and the speedy Karl Kling drove the sports car from Untertürkheim to many a place on the rostrum.The road-going Coupé version of this legendary racing machine – better known as the "Uhlenhaut Coupé" among automotive aficionados – was at the heart of the passionate affection for the SLR held by automotive enthusiasts.

High-class synthesis of legend, performance and comfort

The models in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren family, which have been rolling off the assembly lines at the world championship-winning team's headquarters in Woking since 2004, are the most emphatic reminders of the glory years of the SLR during the 1950s. They have brought the core values of the historic SLR models into the modern era – an exciting design featuring many details reminiscent of its predecessors, innovative technology and carefully hand-crafted, high-grade materials. They also continue the tradition of the high-class Gran Turismo models in time-honoured fashion. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren models offer a beguiling mix of optimum handling, extremely high speed and outstanding acceleration, not to mention a wealth of exquisite appointments, all of which makes for a truly unique driving experience.

To keep faith with the traditionally unique standing of the SLR, Mercedes-Benz and McLaren Automotive pooled all of their extensive motor-racing know-how to produce the super sports car. By way of example, the SLR models set the very highest of standards in terms of handling, rigidity and safety for high-performance cars thanks to the extremely widespread use of exceptionally lightweight yet very strong carbon-fibre materials, including the carbon-fibre front structures based on Formula 1 monocoque constructions, which optimise the car's crashworthiness.

Outstanding powerplant for the front-mid-engine concept

In addition to this, the front-mid-engine concept allows the masses to be concentrated near the centre of the car, which makes for a low mass moment of inertia and consequently exceptional agility and handling dynamics. This concept, together with a chassis configuration born on the racetrack, forms the basis for optimum handling and peerless driving enjoyment.Here an important part is also played by the powerful high-tech engine with motor-racing genes, which was developed at Mercedes-AMG and provides power in abundance. In the Coupé and Roadster models, the driver can call upon 460 kW (626 hp) from the eight-cylinder powerplant with a displacement of 5.5 litres, while the "722" models develop 478 kW (650 hp), ranking the SLR engines among the most powerful units for road-going production sports cars.

Exciting design and exquisite interior

The design of the SLR high-performance sports cars generates sheer excitement by virtue of the stretched bonnet, taut waistline, rear-set passenger cell and short rear end of the Coupé and Roadster – making the thrill of high-speed performance visible as well. Features born on the racetrack include the downforce-enhancing aerodynamic concept incorporating a diffuser, an enclosed underbody, a spoiler and the AIRBRAKE.

As for the interior of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren models, the designers have created a synthesis of puristic sports-car feeling and extraordinary luxury. Exquisite materials such as carbon fibre, aluminium and leather developed exclusively for the SLR are of the highest quality and exclusivity. They dominate the passenger area of the Gran Turismo and further emphasise the unique nature of the car.



[Source : DAIMLER]
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TURIN : December 2, 2009 - The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta will be presented to the world at the forthcoming Geneva Car Show. Sales of the new model will start in spring and be gradually extended to all the major markets. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta is expected to give new impetus to the brand in one of Europe's most important segments.


In the Centenary year, the name is a tribute to an automobile myth and Alfa Romeo. The Giulietta is a car that, in the fifties, caught the imagination of generations of car enthusiasts, making the dream of owning an Alfa Romeo and enjoying the high level of comfort and technical excellence accessible for the first time.

The Alfa Romeo Style Centre has produced a new Giulietta, a sports car capable of expressing both great agility on the most demanding routes and providing comfort on everyday roads.


A new architecture for enhancing road hold and agility in total comfort and safety

Meet the new Alfa Romeo, a compact created to appeal to customers who seek top dynamic performance and those who are looking for a distinctive style and a high level of comfort.

The Giulietta has brand-new architecture, designed to meet the expectations of the most demanding customers in terms of road holding, agility and safety. Its excellent dynamic performance and great comfort are the result of refined technical solutions implemented in the suspensions, a next-generation steering system, a rigid yet light structure made of aluminium and high-strength steel, and state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies.

Alfa DNA, a device which customises behaviour of the car according to different driving styles and road conditions, can adapt the new Alfa Romeo to the needs of each individual driver to enhance driving pleasure and comfort. The new architecture of the Alfa Giulietta was designed to integrate and enhance all onboard systems. Three set-ups (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) are available and can be selected using the Alfa DNA. This device - standard across the entire range of the new model - modifies the operating parameters of the engine, of the steering system, and of the Q2 electronic differential, in addition to fine-tuning the stability control system (VDC) behavioural logics.


Italian style sportiness and comfort

Combining sportiness and elegance, the Alfa Giulietta is the result of Alfa Romeo's new direction in style and technology - an approach that started with the 8C Competizione supercar and which recalls the brand's glorious past while projecting its traditional values of technology and emotion into the future.

The front end is developed around a “trilobe shape” and features a brand-new interpretation of the classic Alfa grille, set into the front bumper and suspended between the two air intakes. The entire car develops from here to combine a lively personality with an elegant form. The front headlamps implement LED technology and a Daytime Running Lights (DRL) function for maximum active safety.

The profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is rich in personality and confers the appearance of an agile, solid model. This is above all the result of the coupé shaped side windows, which highlight dynamic and streamlined shape, and of the concealed rear handles. The side ribbing adds to the car's slender look, while the taut lines closing in on the rear end accentuate the "wedge" shape of the body.

The style of the rear end, like that of the front and the side, is strong and consolidates the impression of a muscular car, firmly gripped to the road. Like the headlamps, the rear light clusters implement LED technology, to the advantage of preventive safety, in addition to good looks.

The interior design is taut and light: a horizontally developed dashboard with aluminium element accents and rocker controls which explicitly recall the 8C Competizione. Painstaking attention to detail and the high quality of the materials used are the most advanced expression of Italian style.

Finally, the dimensions of the new car give a compact, dynamic shape combined with excellent roominess and a capacious boot (350 litres): the car is 4.35 metres long, 1.46 metre high and 1.80 metres wide with a wheelbase of 2.63 metres.

Innovative engines for exciting, environmentally friendly driving

The Alfa Romeo Giulietta guarantees top level performance and next-generation technology in terms of technical solutions, performance and environmental friendliness. Four Turbo engines will be available at launch, all Euro 5 compliant and fitted with a standard “Start&Stop” system for reducing consumption and emissions: two petrol engines (1.4TB - 120 HP and 1.4TB MultiAir - 170 HP) and two diesel engines (1.6 JTDM - 105 HP and 2.0 JTDM - 170 HP, both belonging to the second generation of JTDM engines). Finally, the range is completed with the lively 1750 TBi - 235 HP with an exclusive Quadrifoglio Verde configuration.

Safety and dynamic behaviour at the top of the segment

Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to obtain the maximum Euro NCAP rating in order to offer total protection to driver and passengers. Furthermore, suspension, steering and braking system are designed to be perfectly balanced even during extreme manoeuvres.

Finally, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta is fitted with the most sophisticated electronic devices for dynamic control as standard: VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control), DST (Dynamic Steering Torque), Q2 electronic differential and Alfa DNA selector. All these systems guarantee driving safety, dynamism and performance in the best Alfa Romeo tradition.

[Source : FIAT - Alfa Romeo]
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The limited-edition Maserati GranTurismo S MC Sport Line with Matt White “ICE” finishing was unveiled last week in the futuristic surroundings of the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, in a dedicated event for a selected number of Maserati customers of the Middle East.



Only twelve of these limited-edition GranTurismos will be produced in Modena, all for Middle Eastern markets. The same number – twelve - are the world titles which make up the prestigious palmares of the MC12 in the FIA GT International Championship since 2005: two Constructors’ Cups (2005 and 2007), four Drivers’ Titles (Michael Bartels - Andrea Bertolini in 2006, Thomas Biagi in 2007, Michael Bartels - Andrea Bertolini in 2008 and 2009); five Teams’ Titles (from 2005 onwards uninterruptedly with the Vitaphone Racing Team); one Citation Cup in 2007 with gentleman driver Ben Aucott.

Twelve are also the Middle Eastern cities where Maserati is present with a dedicated showroom: each car will feature a plaque with the name of the city to which it is committed.

A limited and numbered edition of the GranTurismo S MC Sport Line, finished in “Matt Bianco Fuji” with eye-catching pearlescent nuances, will be dedicated to the Italian market. Only eleven customers in Italy will be able to sit behind the wheel of this exclusive car.

Designed to enhance the sporty DNA of the Trident, the “MC Sport Line” options, available to Maserati clients worldwide, sum up the experience acquired on the track by the Maserati Corse racing department, whose contribution to the design of the functional components has been invaluable. The world of motor racing also inspired Maserati’s designers when it came to styling, hence the extensive use of carbon fibre.


An Aerodynamic Package is available within the “MC Sport Line” for the GranTurismo range and it includes double front winglets, rear lip spoiler, door sill inserts, black window surrounds, black exhaust pipes and body coloured door handles. Carbon fibre door mirrors and carbon finish door handles are also available as part of the Aerodynamic Package. These modifications, developed in the wind tunnel and tested at various circuits with the Maserati GranTurismo MC race car concept, increase the vertical load (Cz is reduced by 30%), allowing faster cornering and further improved traction coming out of the corner.

Several aesthetic features are available from the MC Sport Line option list, some of which can also be ordered for Quattroporte S and Sport GTS, including gloss black alloy wheels, interior carbon finishing and MC design aluminium racing pedals.

A single rate sports suspension system is available on the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic, whilst for the GranTurismo S, the highest performing model in the Maserati range, the MC suspension set up can be ordered. This includes lower ride height (by 10mm), stiffer dampers, larger-diameter anti-roll bars which minimise lateral load shifts (roll angle is reduced by 20%). Overall the car’s rigidity is increased by 16% at the front and 32% at the rear.


The “MC Sport Line” suspension is combined with drilled, slotted front and rear disc brakes providing a more predictable and a more immediate braking action, meeting all the expectations of those in search of peak handling. Compared to the standard units, the Sport Line discs are drilled with 4 slots and 16 blind holes around their perimeter: the slots keep the brake pad clean, preventing loss of performance due to material detached by friction, while in case of rain their mechanical action helps to break up the film of water. Blind holes have been added on the inside and outside of the braking surface for more uniform wear of the brake pad and disc surfaces, keeping braking efficiency constant over time.

The Maserati Stability Programme (MSP) has also been re-calibrated for the MC suspension, allowing the driver greater freedom of action.


[Source : MASERATI]
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• Next generation Focus ECOnetic with optional Ford Auto-Start-Stop targets 99g/km average CO₂ emissions and 74.2mpg
• First Ford of Europe production model with new eco technologies including Ford Auto-Start-Stop, Smart Regenerative Charging, Ford Eco Mode and Low Tension FEAD (Front End Accessory Drive)
• Focus ECOnetic versions without Ford Auto-Start-Stop still achieve 104 g/km
• New Focus ECOnetic range available from early 2010

BRENTWOOD : December 1, 2009 -- The new 2010 Ford Focus ECOnetic takes a successful formula to the next level by combining new technology with clever details delivering the most fuel-efficient Focus to date.



Dedicated Ford Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo and Transit ECOnetic models have already established themselves as smart choices for customers prioritising low carbon motoring and high levels of fuel efficiency. Now, the next generation Focus ECOnetic changes the rules again, and introduces Ford of Europe's first production application of the Ford Auto-Start-Stop system.


Efficient technology

The new Focus ECOnetic five-door, revealed at the 2009 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show in September, is available with a new optional Ford Auto-Start-Stop system that was previewed on the Ford iosis MAX Concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

Regardless of whether Auto-Start-Stop is specified, the Focus ECOnetic has Smart Regenerative Charging and Low Tension FEAD (Front End Accessory Drive) - technologies that are new to the Ford of Europe product line-up, and which combine to deliver lower emissions and better fuel efficiency and pave the way for future powertrains from the blue oval.

Power comes from Ford's 109 PS (80 kW) 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard coated Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF). Target average CO₂ emissions for the Auto-Start-Stop equipped model are as low as 99g/km, with a combined fuel economy of 74.2mpg and 104g/km for the standard Focus ECOnetic.*


The new Focus ECOnetic is also the first vehicle to feature the new Ford Eco Mode system as standard. An all-new driver information system, Ford Eco Mode, helps to educate the driver to achieve improved real-world fuel economy.

"To achieve these impressive figures, we combined the proven approach of the original Focus ECOnetic with even more detail improvements and all-new technologies," said Dr. Thilo Seibert, Manager CO₂ Technologies for Ford of Europe. "The new Focus ECOnetic is particularly significant as it paves the way for some of these technologies to be implemented into our core vehicle series in the near future."


Ford Auto-Start-Stop system

The new Focus ECOnetic five-door is the first European Ford to offer a new Ford Auto-Start-Stop system, which combines automatic engine start-stop operation with smart regenerative charging and advanced battery management systems.

The Ford Auto-Start-Stop system automatically shuts down the engine when the vehicle is at idle – at a traffic light, for example – and restarts the engine when the driver wants to move off, saving the fuel wasted at idle.

The system can reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to five per cent in mixed driving conditions. In an urban environment and in heavy traffic with frequent stops the savings could increase to as much as 10 per cent.

The advanced new Ford Auto-Start-Stop system has been carefully designed with customer convenience in mind, and to provide consistent starting and stopping performance that is smooth, quiet and seamless, requiring no changes in driver behaviour.

When the engine shuts down, the electronic control unit immediately prepares the engine's systems for an instant restart. An integrated system of sensors is then used to detect when the driver performs an action that signals the intent to drive off, such as pressing the accelerator or clutch pedal.

As soon as the driver prepares to move away, the engine starts quietly and almost instantly; it only takes the system around 0.3sec to fire up the engine. The process is near imperceptible, and happens before gear selection is completed.

To support the increased number of engine starts, the starter motor is upgraded with a high performance electric motor and a stronger pinion-engagement mechanism with reduced noise levels.

Advanced battery technology is required to ensure the main vehicle battery copes with the frequent charge-discharge cycles common with stop-start operation.

Smart Regenerative Charging

The new Focus ECOnetic also uses advanced technologies to ensure that the battery is kept charged in the most efficient way.

A Smart Regenerative Charging system increases the alternator output when the vehicle brakes or decelerates. This converts the kinetic energy of the vehicle into electric energy without having to use additional fuel.

The ‘free’ electric current is used to recharge the battery, so that it can be used by the electrical systems at a later stage. This could be when the engine is switched off during a stop-phase, but can also be when the generator is operating in a less efficient mode.

The battery has an advanced management system that continually monitors its status and communicates with the Ford Auto-Start-Stop system, so that the regenerative charging feature can charge the battery in the optimal way. The start-stop system knows how much battery charge is available, so that it can leave the engine running if the battery does not have a sufficient level of charge.

Low Tension FEAD

It has always been an integral element of the Ford ECOnetic approach to monitor potential sources of friction and find innovative solutions to make everything work even more efficiently. The Low Tension FEAD (Front End Accessory Drive) technology is the latest example that reinforces this.

A newly designed alternator bracket and new belt pulley design enable the tension of the front end accessory drive belt to be lowered without causing issues that are normally related to drive belt slackness such as increased wear of the belt itself or the alternator bearings, as well as raised noise levels.

The benefit of these changes is clear: with the belt at a lower tension, friction in the entire system is reduced and less friction leads to reduced fuel consumption.

Improved Duratorq TDCi engine technology

For the Ford Duratorq 1.6-litre TDCi engine, new injectors were specified, while the intake system was revised and the exhaust system fitted with an oxygen sensor. The engine management system was recalibrated and a standard coated Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF) was added. No additives are required for the filtering process.

Additionally, the gear ratios of the Ford Durashift five-speed manual gearbox have been revised, offering a longer ratio for third, fourth and fifth gears – bringing down engine revs and engine noise.


New Ford Eco Mode : The new Focus ECOnetic also extends its attention to the human factor

Drivers of the new Ford Focus ECOnetic will not only benefit from new technology hardware addressing lower fuel consumption, but also the introduction of smart, driver-focused software.

"At Ford we have a great deal of experience in the techniques of 'eco-driving' used to achieve maximum real-world fuel economy," Dr. Seibert explained. "The new Ford Eco Mode system is a new software application that is added to the instrument cluster to give the driver useable and realistic eco-driving advice."

This system monitors major parameters relevant for optimal fuel consumption that can actively be influenced by altering driving behaviour. These parameters include gear shifting, anticipation (driving as consistently and smoothly as possible) and motorway driving (driving with the most efficient speed on motorways and country roads). In addition the system considers the percentage of cold-engine short trips.

As a result of this monitoring process, Ford Eco Mode generates a driver profile with a scoring scheme for these driving parameters, and offers information on how to improve fuel economy over time. This ongoing process can be translated into driver advice that can help make the best of the vehicle's technology.

"Ford Eco Mode really helps you to become an eco-driver," Dr. Seibert noted. "We have been amazed by the positive feedback on the system by customers in early tests. Customers have told us that they actively enjoyed exploring a new and very contemporary discipline: saving fuel!"

The Ford ECOnetic experience

The new technologies added to the second generation Ford Focus ECOnetic complement and add to the original model's fuel-saving features.

To improve aerodynamics, the Focus ECOnetic is lowered by 10mm at the front and 8mm at the rear, while the outer areas of the lower grille are fitted with blanking plates on the inside surface which contribute to the vehicle's favourable cd (coefficient of drag) of 0.31. The car takes full advantage of latest generation Michelin Energy Saver 195/65R15 tyres to lower rolling resistance.

A further measure to reduce friction continued from the original Focus ECOnetic, is the use of low-viscosity transmission oil developed by Ford's energy partner BP. The benefits of using this oil on Focus ECOnetic were immediately clear, so Ford subsequently introduced it as the standard transmission oil for all of the company's core C- and CD-segment passenger cars fitted with manual transmission and dual-mass flywheel.

The reduction in energy consumption is combined with the efficiency of the Focus EHPAS (Electro-Hydraulic Power Assisted Steering) system and underlines the fact that minor changes can produce a major fuel consumption benefit. By re-calibrating the no-load performance of the electric servo pump, energy consumption was reduced sufficiently to provide a noticeable reduction in fuel consumption.

The versatile alternative: New 104g/km Focus ECOnetic

In order to offer even greater versatility to cost-conscious ECOnetic customers, Ford is also launching additional five-door and estate versions of the new Focus ECOnetic without the integrated Ford Auto-Start-Stop system.

Available with Ford's 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi engine with standard coated Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF) in both 90PS and 109PS power ratings and in a choice of five-door and estate bodystyles, these versions offer the full range of the latest Focus ECOnetic technology, with the single exception of the start-stop functionality.

Even without Ford Auto-Start-Stop, average CO₂ emissions are a low 104g/km and target average fuel consumption is 70.6mpg*.

"From the very beginning of Ford's ECOnetic approach it has been our clear intention to offer our customers affordable eco-technology, and to also pave the way for the possible integration of these technologies into the core vehicle programmes," Dr. Seibert concludes. "With its new comprehensive set-up, the new Focus ECOnetic offers exactly what it takes: versatility, latest level technology and – regardless of version – excellent CO₂ and fuel economy figures."

* : Fuel economy figures quoted are based on the European Fuel Economy Directive EU 80/1268/EEC and will differ from fuel economy drive cycle results in other regions of the world. Data relates to 5-dr Focus bodystyle.

[Source : FORD]
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• Best-selling Ford Fiesta to make ASEAN debut at Thailand Motor Expo, providing Ford customers with an all-new, fun-to-drive, small car.
• New Fiesta will be available in a five-door hatchback and four-door sedan, both of which will be produced in Thailand for local and export markets starting in 2010. This underlines Ford's commitment to offer a larger product portfolio to ASEAN markets.
• Titanium Limited Edition Ford Focus, new Ford Everest Navy Edition, as well as a new model line-up of Ford Ranger WildTrak 4x2 and the new Ford Escape will also be on display.

BANGKOK : December 1, 2009 – Ford Motor Company's all-new Ford Fiesta will make its ASEAN debut at the Thailand International Motor Expo at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani from December 2-13, giving the Thai public its first look at this wildly popular car that has sold more than a half million units in its first 12 months.


The dynamic all-new Fiesta will go on sale in Thailand in just a few short months and will be locally produced at AutoAlliance Thailand's new $500 million small car production facility, which will supply the entire ASEAN region, as well as the Australia, New Zealand and South Africa markets.

The five-door hatchback version on the Ford stand will provide an up-close look at the attractive design that will be available to ASEAN consumers. A four-door sedan will also be available when production begins in 2010.


The all-new Fiesta continues to build upon the solid reputation of small car expertise from Ford. Since its introduction, Fiesta has been a showcase for small car engineering with exceptional fuel efficiency, excellent road handling and vehicle dynamics.

Fiesta's all-new aerodynamic shape minimizes noise, vibration and harshness and enhances its fuel efficiency. Showcasing Ford's kinetic design themes, the bold, sophisticated styling includes a sporty grille reflecting a strong Ford family presence, wrap-around headlamps, pronounced wheel arches and taut body lines highlighted with chrome trim, as well being available in a variety of colour choices.

Like the outside, boldly shaped surfaces express the individuality and distinctiveness of Fiesta inside. Flowing surfaces and contrasting colours wrap around the cabin that is both warm and inviting. While the expressive interior is designed primarily for younger customers, traditional buyers will also be pleasantly surprised at the packaging which conveys both sophistication and luxury without sacrificing form and function.

Instrumentation is easy to read, control stalks are precise and delightful to use and the centre console with radio/CD, heating-ventilation and air-conditioning controls are ergonomically designed for ease of use and to convey a feeling of quality.

“The ASEAN launch will write the next chapter in our global Ford Fiesta success story and continue to highlight Ford's leadership in small car design and development," said David Alden, president, Ford ASEAN. "Stylish Thai and other ASEAN consumers will appreciate the uniqueness and undeniable appeal of the Fiesta to express their individuality, style and sophistication.”

Already a favourite in European markets with consumers and media alike, Fiesta has won numerous editorial awards from automotive enthusiast magazines, including Top Gear, Car, Car & Driver and 4 Wheels. Recently the car was lauded with 2009 Car of the Year honours from Auto Express, What Car? and Sun Motors.

Coinciding with the launch in Thailand, Ford will introduce the new Fiesta at the Los Angeles Auto Show, one of the largest car markets in the United States.


The Ford stand will also feature Ford's entire product lineup in Thailand, including a new, fully-equipped with the imported accessories, Titanium Limited Edition Ford Focus 2.0L. A new Ford Everest Navy Edition with the latest colour option "Titanium Grey", as well as a new model line-up of Ford Ranger WildTrak 4x2 with a manual transmission and the new Ford Escape will also be on display.


As part of the Motor Expo, Ford will offer consumers special incentives on all Ford models sold at any of its nationwide network of authorized dealers during the Expo dates. The incentives include either a free warranty program of five-years, or up to 100,000 kilometres (five years/105,000 for Ford Focus models), or any of the following incentive packages:

1. Ford Focus TDCi 6-speed PowerShift: 2.59% interest, 48-month instalment payment, free one-year first-class insurance
2. The new Ford Focus Duratec E20: prices start from THB 749,000, 1.99% interest, free one-year first-class insurance
3. Ford Everest: 2.39% interest, 48-month instalment payment, free one-year first-class insurance
4. Ford Escape: 2.39% interest, 48-month instalment payment, free one-year first-class insurance
5. The new Ford Ranger (all models): 1.99% interest, 48-month instalment payment, free one-year first-class insurance







[Source : FORD]
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• Amarok sets new standards in 1-tonne pick-up class
• Fuel-efficient TDI engines and three drive concepts
• Active and passive safety at the highest level
• Production and market launch in South America; Europe to follow in 2010

HANNOVER : December 1, 2009 -– With the Amarok, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now also entering the segment of mid-range pick-ups, representing an annual market volume of two million vehicles worldwide. The Amarok is not only the fourth model series of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, it is also the first 1-tonne class pick-up to be developed in Germany. The new model unifies the robustness demanded of a pick-up with innovative technology, high safety standards and top values in fuel efficiency, comfort and ergonomics. Production is about ready to begin at “Pacheco” plant in Buenos Aires, Argentina.



The Amarok is launching worldwide in a four-door version with “double cab” – a “single cab” will debut in the first half of 2011. Conceptually and stylistically, the Amarok – up to 5.25 meter long – is a pick-up that looks like it came right out of the pages of a stylish copybook. Its body, set upon a ladder frame, clearly reflects properties of the new Volkswagen design DNA. As usual, the emphasis here is on horizontal lines, a clear interplay of surfaces and precision.

Unifying the horizontal headlights and grille into a single design element is a characteristic of the Volkswagen face for the new era. The louvres and decorative trim of the radiator grille are styled with a distinctive love for details. Extending back from the front face is a surface that develops over the fender contour to the side windows and encloses them in an arch. The defined curvatures of the side panels and engine bonnet lend the sculpted Amarok a truck-like stability supported by amply sized wheel housings.

Finally, the VW logo crowns the smooth surface of the tailgate, framed by rear lights whose distinctive signature is a characteristic night design. Even in the styling of the bumper and its form fit to the truck body, the high standards of its designers show through, and this sets the Amarok apart from the competitive field as a genuine Volkswagen with quality and precision.


Cultivated, powerful and efficient:
Robust TDI engines with innovative technology

For the powertrain, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has chosen two reliable, fuel-efficient and clean high-tech turbo-diesels for the pick-up’s market launch. The 120 kW / 163 PS strong 2.0 TDI with common rail injection has two-stage bi-turbo turbocharging, which generates a torque of 400 Newton-meters at a low 1,500 rpm. Another four-cylinder TDI with 90 kW / 122 PS will follow as a second engine variant in mid-2010. It has a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry and develops a maximum torque of 340 Newton-meters from 2,000 rpm. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

In addition to their agile responsiveness, the two engines dazzle with their extremely low – and for the entire market segment pioneering – fuel consumption values. Take the Amarok with switchable all-wheel drive as an example. Even in this 4x4 version, the 122-PS TDI consumes just 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (equivalent to 199 g/km CO2). In the case of the 163-PS TDI, fuel consumption is also very economical at 7.8 litres (206 g/km CO2). This is the first time an all-wheel drive vehicle has been offered in this class whose CO2 emissions are less than 200 grams. Thanks to its 80-litre tank, the pick-up is also capable of ranges of over 1,000 kilometres! All Amarok pick-ups are equipped with an upshift indicator as well to assist drivers in attaining an economical mode of driving.


Three drive variants:
Dynamic and safe on all roads

For power transfer, three different drive concepts are offered – each tailored for a specific market: full-time all-wheel drive, switchable all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. In the base version, the Amarok has rear-wheel drive. This version is intended for customers who mainly chose the pick-up for its body form and its versatility.

The two all-wheel drive variants are right at home on all terrains. The ideal choice for journeys up hill and down dale is the Amarok 4MOTION with switchable all-wheel drive and a red “4” in its signature. Making its appearance with full-time all-wheel drive and greater comfort is the Amarok 4MOTION with a black “4”. It exhibits the same vehicle dynamics advantages offered by all-wheel drive, but for paved roads.

The Amarok with switchable all-wheel drive uses a positive clutch that is practice proven in the pick-up segment. When engaged by the push of a button, it produces rigid power transfer between the axles. For the most difficult jobs, low off-road gearing is also provided, making it easy to take on complicated off-road passages; the truck can even conquer 100 percent gradients with full cargo loading. The progressively tuned heavy-duty spring pack guarantees a high overload safety factor with its three main and two auxiliary spring plates.

The full-time all-wheel drive version is a rarity in its class. The Torsen differential distributes drive forces at a 40:60 ratio to the front and rear axles, and this simultaneously assures both excellent vehicle dynamics and high traction. In addition, selective braking interventions in tough terrain ensure that the wheel with the best traction always gets the most engine power. This drive concept is paired with a chassis that was specially tuned for comfort.

An optional rear differential lock is available for all drive types.


From utility truck to lifestyle pick-up:
Three equipment lines for a wide range of demands

Three equipment lines are available on the Amarok. The base version relies on purely mechanical and extremely robust components – with manual operation of the windows, door locks and mirror adjustment. The front bumper, door handles and mirrors are not painted, making them ideal for heavy duty use. The base version stands on standard 16-inch steel. Other standard features: height-adjustable front seats, variable folding rear bench seat, locking glove compartment and cargo platform lighting. A special feature: antennas integrated in the outside mirrors.

One grade more luxurious is the Amarok Trendline. On this version, the front bumper, door handles and mirror housings are painted in body colour. Window lifts, door locking and mirror adjustment are all electrically operated. In addition, a radio with CD player, climate control (Climatic), multi-functional display, cruise control system and front fog lights are all standard equipment. 16-inch aluminium wheels underscore the truck’s strong appearance.

The exclusive Amarok Highline is equipped for enhanced comfort. Building on the Trendline equipment line, the Highline is upgraded by features such as part-chrome mirror housings, various chrome accents outside and inside the vehicle and fender skirt extensions in body colour that create space for 17-inch aluminium wheels. In addition, the top equipment line is characterised by a colour contrasting instrument panel  depending on vehicle configuration , automatic climate control (Climatronic), leather detailing, an even higher end sound system and elegant fabric seat covers.

Besides this wide range of features, an extensive accessories programme is also offered for the Amarok – from a styling bar to running boards, cargo cover and Multi-Connect load securing system (standard from Trendline) and a selection of alloy wheels.


Lots of space for occupants and cargo:
Generously sized interior and widest load space in its class

Interior: The large and ergonomically designed interior, the largest in its class, bears a close resemblance to other Volkswagen models. Easy entry, generous space and lots of headroom characterise the “workplace” behind the steering wheel. These properties and ample legroom for passengers on the rear bench make the Amarok a full-fledged five-seater. When just two persons are aboard, interior storage space can be increased by folding the tall rear seat.

Exterior: The Amarok’s cargo area delivers the largest dimensions of its class. On a truck bed height of just 525 millimetres, the cargo area measures 2.52 square meters (1,555 millimetre length, 1,620 millimetre width). But that is not all: Also “Best in class” is the 1,222 millimetre width between wheel wells. For the first time on a mid-size pick-up, it is possible to load Euro pallets sideways, saving on space. Thanks to its large dimensions and a payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes, sports equipment like quads and bulky machinery can also be transported. Four tie-down eyes in the corners of the truck bed protect cargo during the drive. In addition, the (optional) “hitch” can handle up to 2.8 tonnes trailer load.


Four airbags, ESP, ASR, ABS and assistance systems:
The Amarok sets standards in its class for safety

Naturally, the Amarok has height-adjustable head restraints and seatbelts at all five of its seating positions. The belts on the front seats are equipped with belt tensioners and are coupled to a visual and acoustic belt warning system. Side curtain airbags for head protection are also available for the driver and front passenger. ABS and ASR are standard features on the Amarok as is the electronic differential lock (EDL). Another standard feature activated by pushbutton is Off-Road ABS, which significantly shortens braking distances on off-road trails and gravel roads. If the optional ESP system is installed, when Offroad-ABS is enabled at vehicle speeds under 30 km/h this also activates Hill Descent Assist. It keeps driving speed constant by selective braking interventions, enabling safe and controlled hill descents. For the first time in this vehicle class, when driving under 30 km/h the driver can individually set the driving speed for the given descent conditions by braking and accelerating.

Furthermore, all vehicles are equipped with ESP plus Hill Hold Assist, which holds the vehicle in place while driving uphill until the driver presses the accelerator pedal enough to prevent rolling back.

Launch in South America; to be followed by Australia and South Africa as well as Europe

Key markets for the Amarok are South America, South Africa and Australia; in these markets pick-ups are some of the most sought after recreational and commercial vehicles, because of their versatility. Thanks to its efficient drive technology and tremendous versatility, the Amarok is also expected to be a trendsetter in the contemporary pick-up class in Europe. Its market launch in South America is scheduled for early 2010, and Europe will follow in the second half of 2010.

[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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YOKOHAMA : December 1, 2009 - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announces the release of the Roox minicar, which goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide.


The most distinctive features of the new Nissan Roox are its spacious interior, elegant design and convenient features, such as the double sliding rear doors that provide for convenient entry and exit and a large, low-floor height luggage space. The name Roox was coined from "room" and "max" to convey its exceptionally roomy interior.


While Roox's comfortable family car cabin is designed to change people's impression of minicar interiors in Japan, its exterior design also brings an eye-catching new face to the segment. Roox incorporates the design characteristics of Nissan's Highway Star Minivan series, including Serena and Elgrand, providing a striking and elegant appearance.

The new Roox is also designed to offer efficient operation and performance. The K6A engine-equipped models (except for turbo models) deliver both excellent environmental and driving performance, achieving top-in-class*1 fuel efficiency of 21.5km/L*2. With a 15% or 20% improvement in fuel economy over the 2010 standards, these models are certified SU-LEV*3 (vehicles which emit 75% fewer emissions than the levels mandated by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations). Roox non-turbo models qualify for Japan's preferential tax scheme for environment-friendly vehicles, with automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax reduced by 50%.

Nissan collectively refers to models that qualify for these preferential tax breaks as the Nissan ECO Series (NECO Series). Including Roox, 18 models*4 have already qualified. Nissan hopes to stimulate consumer demand for eco-friendly vehicles by offering customers a broad selection of products to choose from.

An Imposing Appearance and a Comfortable, Practical Interior

The new Nissan Roox lineup includes two distinctive series designs. The Highway Star series features exterior cues shared with the popular Nissan Highway Star minivans. Utilizing a chrome grille and a sharp headlight design, the exterior provides an imposing yet elegant appearance. The Roox Highway Star is available in a choice of six body colors - including two special colors, Mysterious Violet and Luna Gray.


The Roox E/G series presents a high-quality, spacious feeling expressed most prominently by its long, horizontal front grille. It is available in a choice of six exterior colors, including special colors Bloom Pink and Aqua Veil Blue.

As fitting for a vehicle designed to be enjoyed everyday by the whole family, the Roox combines comfort with practicality. Nissan Roox offers ample room and seating for four adults, and, with its cabin measuring 1365 mm wide and 2085 mm in length, the most spacious interior in its class.

All models feature Fine Vision meters and a well-coordinated use of chrome and piano-black interior finisher trim to produce a feeling of premium quality. The Roox Highway Star series features a sporty, elegant black interior treatment with special Fine Vision meters and chic fabric seat materials. The Roox E/G series utilizes an elegant beige interior appearance with soft, glossy seat materials creating a bright, open atmosphere.

Remote-controlled double sliding rear doors are standard on all models. When open, rear access dimensions measure 580 mm wide and 1230 mm high. A low-mounted rear step, with a height of 340 mm (2WD models) aids effortless passenger entry and exit. Roox's low cargo floor, with a ground clearance of 535 mm on 2WD models, combines with the large luggage space and wide opening to provide easy loading of oversized objects.

Power-sliding rear doors, which can be opened or closed automatically with a button located on the Intelligent Key, are standard on both sides of the "Highway Star Turbo" model, while the Highway Star and G series offer the power-sliding feature on the rear passenger side door only. A sliding door auto closer, which automatically shuts the door properly if the door is half-shut, is standard on all models, along with a slide door stopper that locks the door fully open for safe entry and exit when the car is parked on a hill.

Other standard convenience features include an Intelligent Key, which allows users to lock/unlock the doors simply by carrying the key fob, and a Push Engine Starter that can start or stop the engine with the touch of a button. A convenient drink cooler, fitted inside the upper glove box of the passenger seat, comes standard on all models and utilizes cool air from air conditioner to keep beverages at a desired temperature.

Standard safety equipment includes SRS air bag systems for the driver and front passenger on all models, while SRS side air bag systems for the driver and front passenger are standard on all models except for E.

Driving Pleasure with an Eye Toward the Environment

Roox models equipped with the K6A engine models (except for turbo models) deliver both excellent environmental and driving performance, including the previously mentioned class-leading fuel efficiency and SU-LEV emission certification.

A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with a sub-transmission that increases gear ratio and neutral idle control, helping reduce excessive fuel consumption while idling, is adopted to improve fuel efficiency. Also standard on all models is a vehicle operation information display, which shows real-time and average fuel consumption to help encourage eco-driving.



Roox models with the K6A intercooler turbo engine offer 47kW (64PS) of power, providing responsive driving performance.

Roox is supplied to Nissan by Suzuki Motor Corporation on an OEM basis.
Sales target : 3,500 units/month
Price range : 1,244,250 yen to 1,714,650 yen, including consumption tax
Sales launch events : December 5 (Sat.) - 6 (Sun.), 12 (Sat.) - 13 (Sun.), 2009

*1: Minicars whose height is 1700 mm and above.
*2: Fuel economy of non-turbo 2WD and 4WD models which qualify for a 50% tax reduction of automobile acquisition tax and automobile weight tax; 2WD: 21.5km/L, 4WD: 21.0km/L
*3: For vehicles emitting 75% fewer emissions (SU-LEV) than the levels mandated by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations and also achieving a 15% or 20% improvement in fuel economy over the 2010 fuel economy standards:
50% reduction of the automobile acquisition tax on vehicles newly registered by March 31, 2012 and a
50% reduction of the automobile weight tax on vehicles newly registered by April 30, 2012.
*4: As of December 1, 2009, eighteen vehicles qualify for Japan's preferential tax scheme for environment-friendly vehicles; i.e. Moco, Otti, Roox, March, Note, Cube, Tiida, Tiida Latio, Wingroad, Serena, Dualis, X-TRAIL, Lafesta, Fuga, AD/AD Expert, NV200 Vanette, Atlas F24 and Atlas H43.



[Source : NISSAN]
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INGOLSTADT : December 1, 2009 - Audi has launched the next generation of the Audi A8 - the sportiest sedan of the luxury class sets new standards. Its elegantly styled body with the Audi Space Frame (ASF) is aluminum, the engines are powerful and highly efficient, and the power transmission and running gear combine dynamics with convenience. The new flagship's generously designed interior captivates with its luxurious equipment, newly developed control system MMI and the excellent quality of its workmanship. Innovative assistance systems lend even more confidence to driving.



Design

Audi design is always fascinating in its complex intelligence. The outer skin of the new Audi A8 conveys homogeneity, as if modeled from a full volume. A coupé-like roof line lets the silhouette flow; sculptured surfaces conveying calmness and prestige contrast with sharp lines. The new A8 underscores the leading position maintained by Audi in the field of automotive design. Representing the cutting edge in many innovative technologies, the Audi A8 indicates this role through new and progressive design elements.

5137 mm (16.85 ft) in length, with a 2992 mm (9.82 ft) wheelbase, 1949 mm (6.39 ft) in width and 1460 mm (4.79 ft) in height - the new luxury sedan is generously proportioned. The Audi A8 significantly exceeds in length and width both its predecessor and its competitors. Its height, however, remains below that of its immediate rivals in Germany - the proportions follow the dynamic line.

The Audi A8 displays its single-frame radiator grille like a proud coat of arms. Framed by a chrome edge, the grille presents a new design - sculptured, three- dimensional and rich in details. With angular upper corners, it is neatly integrated in the front section, while the prominent, horizontal chrome braces emphasize the vehicle width.


The Audi A8 looks out on the world through newly designed headlights - with xenon plus units and the innovative full LED headlights, a technology Audi was the first to introduce worldwide in the Audi R8 high-performance sports car. The adaptive light system augments the xenon plus units - it controls the swiveling modules so that they always provide the perfect lighting for intersections, the city, country roads and highways. The new all-weather light integrated into the headlights replaces the fog lights. Their traditional location in the air intakes is now occupied by the radar sensors of the optional adaptive cruise control with stop & go function.

A technological breakthrough from Audi is the networking of the headlight control unit with the optional MMI navigation plus. The navigation system analyzes the route ahead and relays the data to the light computer to activate highway lighting with its extended range while still on the ramp to the highway, for example. Before entering an intersection, the system activates the cornering light, which provides wider-angle illumination and thus enhances safety.

High-end technology: the full LED headlights

The high-end solution on board the new A8 is the full LED headlights. They give the big sedan an unmistakable appearance even in daylight and even more so after the fall of darkness. Their revolutionary optics mean a departure from the large, tubular light modules commonly used today.

The low beams comprise ten individual modules forming an arc situated below the wing-shaped chrome contour known as the "wing." Just below this is another arc of 22 white and 22 yellow LEDs for the daytime running lights and the turn signals. Their thick wall technology makes them appear from the outside as homogenous, continuous strips of light.

Located above the wing are the high beams, whose light is generated by two powerful four-chip LEDs and a free surface reflector system. An assistant switches between the high and low beams, and additional high-power LEDs generate the highway light and cornering light. A separate fan and heat sink moderate the system's temperature.

The full LED headlights offer a number of functional advantages in everyday situations. With a color temperature of 5,500 Kelvin, their light resembles daylight and thus is much less tiring to the eyes. They also offer efficiency advantages. The low beams, for example, consume only 40 watts per unit, a bit less than the already highly efficient xenon plus headlights.

The side view of the new Audi A8 also gives the image of concentrated and forward-thrusting power. Typically for the Audi line, the vehicle line makes up two-thirds of the height, with the remaining third falling to the greenhouse. From the single-frame grill Audi's characteristic Tornado line runs as a light edge just beneath the window sill. The line continues close above the wheel arches, giving the Audi A8 a powerful appearance on the road.

The surfaces below the Tornado line interpret the interplay of light and shadow, of convexity and concavity, and are statement of seriousness and timeless elegance. Proceeding downwards, the surfaces are framed by the rising dynamic line running above the side sills. Large wheels - from 17 to 21 inches in diameter - fill the wheel arches pulled out wide.

At the rear the separation edge gives an impression of sleekness, which further reinforces the impressively sculptured surfaces. A chrome strip underlines the width of the sedan, terminating in a diffuser.

The tail lights also produce an appearance both three-dimensional and striking - and typically Audi. They, too, use LED technology with 72 light-emitting diodes per unit. Chip-on-board LEDs, which can be packed tightly together with high precision, are used in many areas due to the limited amount of space available.

The tail lights, which consume only 9 watts per unit, form a trapezoidal contour that appears as an even, homogenous strip. Its upper segment is a light guide - a plastic tube; the lower section is a reflective, textured free-form surface. It is thicker than the upper segment to optically lower the center of gravity of the Audi A8's back end. The turn signal is a horizontal line. The five-segment brake light is located inside the trapezoid.


Body

Big, strong, safe and yet amazingly lightweight - the aluminum body once again sets new standards. Its low weight is a key factor for the outstanding driving dynamics, exemplary efficiency and very good comfort of the new A8. Audi, the lightweight design pioneer of the automotive industry, again demonstrates its leadership role.

Fifteen years ago the four rings brand introduced the technology of the Audi Space Frame (ASF) into production - with the first Audi A8 generation. ASF has proven its merit outstandingly; and now Audi is again using it in a much more advanced form. In its basic design the ASF body brings a latticed framework to mind. Its skeleton comprises extruded sections and pressure diecast parts of aluminum. The aluminum panels - such as the roof panels and the side panels - are joined by friction connections.

Depending on their tasks, the components of the ASF body fully differ in shape and cross-sectional area. For example, the A-pillar nodes of the new Audi A8 - one of 25 castings in the body - interconnect the longitudinal member, the sill, the omega cross-member, the windshield crossmember, the roof frame and the suspension strut mount. The lateral roof frame, on the other hand, is formed by a single extruded section; its cross-section changes flexibly from the A-pillar to the C-pillar.

Audi has substantially increased the strength of the higher-strength body components in the new Audi A8, thereby significantly reducing both material thickness and weight.

One of the keys for this is a novel composite material for the aluminum panels. The use of this new, high-strength aluminum alloy alone enabled a weight saving of 6.5 kilograms (14.33 lb).


High stiffness, low vibrations

Besides the low weight, the ASF body of the Audi A8 has many other strengths. The static torsional stiffness has increased by 25 percent compared with the predecessor, already a leader in the field; it forms the basis for the precise, dynamic handling. In terms of lightweight quality — the relationship between weight, torsional stiffness and size — the body achieved an improvement of 20 percent. The ASF principle ensures comfortably low levels of vibrations and impressive quietness on board for that typical Audi feeling.

The new A8 glides calmly, sleekly and quietly through the wind. The 4.2 FSI version has a drag coefficient of only 0.26, with the frontal area measuring 2.41 m2 (25.94 square ft). Low lift coefficients at the front and rear axles ensure confident stability at highway speeds. The luxury sedan also once again leads its class in wind noise comfort.

Audi regards the development of a new vehicle as a holistic mission. The overall energy balance sheet covering the entire vehicle life reveals the new Audi A8 achieves better results than its predecessor with respect to all important environmental criteria, including CO2 emissions. The crucial factor is the phase of use, where in particular the new, highly efficient engines play a positive role. Aluminum is also superior to steel as a body material with respect to CO2 thanks to its excellent recycling properties.


Interior

The interior of the new Audi A8 is a wellness lounge for the senses. With its elegant styling and quality of workmanship on the craftsman level, the interior is deeply rooted in the philosophy of the four rings brand. In the cut it is much wider, more airy and spacious than its predecessor. Its salient element is the "wrap- around" - a circumferential curve forming an elegant beltline as on a yacht. The large curve integrates the sleek and low instrument panel. Its neat & tidy front is shaped like a gentle wave.

The Audi brand's clear and intuitive operating philosophy reaches new heights in the Audi A8. The large, round instruments are clearly delineated. The driver information system (DIS), which serves as a fully fledged information and control center, has a new layout. Its center display has increased to a 7-inch diagonal, showing all functions according to an easily understandable concept. It is operated at the equally improved multifunction steering wheel.

The center tunnel: perfect control console

The center tunnel in the new Audi A8 is wide and evenly inclined. As an ergonomically ideal control console, it contains the control panel for the automatic air conditioning and the terminal of the MMI control and multimedia system, now in a new version. It forms a clearly organized touch & feel arrangement of three zones, one of which is reserved for audio. Operation is totally stress-free: The driver's wrist on the selector lever of the 8-speed tiptronic, asymmetrically located on the center tunnel, leaving the hand at ease to touch and turn switches.

In standby mode, the monitor of the MMI system is recessed in the instrument panel. Switched on, it moves upwards in an elegant curve, nicely setting the scene for the system start. The large monitor with its 8-inch diagonal is extremely flat. Its display area is divided into three information zones, while the menu control system follows a further improved and intuitive logic. All topics are presented in elegant, three-dimensional graphics.

The Audi A8 also sets the bar at a new height in the quality of workmanship, another big domain of Audi. The combination of highest-quality materials and their precise implementation make the interior a sensuous experience. The large controls and buttons are optionally available with aluminum surfaces and click easily and precisely like clockwork. Many switches gleam in high-gloss black, and all frequently used parts are covered by a new kind of top coat making them extremely scratch-resistant.

The large decorative inlays each consist of two parts - a highly elegant solution. The bottom elements come in standard highly polished black, the top ones in walnut brown, while the whole is accentuated by fine chrome strips. Brushed aluminum and fine woods are optionally available from Audi. All components feature uncompromisingly precise workmanship and minimal gaps.

Audi offers five basic colors for the interior, and three shades for the roof lining. The selection of coverings ranges to natural leather, which is especially soft and breathable. Passionate individualists can choose from two Audi design selections in special colors that integrate many luxurious equipment features. Audi also offers several leather packages, an Alcantara package and the extended aluminum look in the interior.

Highly emotional: the orchestration of light

At dark another high-end feature comes into play - the new ambient light. White LEDs add a few subtle highlights to the interior. The ambient light package is an emotional overall orchestration, providing effective illumination and making the center console seem to float. Many LEDs here are two-colored or three-colored - the color schemes of ivory, polar and ruby can be selected at the MMI. In other words, the same LEDs can change between two and three colors.

The many sophisticated solutions in the new Audi A8 include the start-stop button, which allows the driver to start the engine while leaving the key in his or her pocket.

The automatic air conditioning system regulates the interior climate in two zones, and optionally in four. Three climate styles are available - gentle, medium and strong - which also change the type of air flow. For winter a fourth variant is available that heats the footwell more intensively.

The standard front seats feature 12-way electric adjustment. The comfort seats offer even more luxury with their 22-way adjustability, also incorporating the sides of the seats. Audi also offers optional seats with a sporty look and top-stitched diamond patterns. Three-staged ventilation is offered in addition to the heating. Another luxury extra is the pneumatic massage, in which twin air chambers pulsate in the backrest - the driver and front passenger can regulate them in five programs, with the intensity graduated in three stages.

As a large, luxurious touring sedan the Audi A8 also treats its rear passengers on a first-class level. On request, Audi even provides the rear bench with versatile electric adjustment of the outside seats; a memory feature is on board as is adjustability of the front passenger seat from the rear. Seat heating, electric blinds and the four-zone automatic air conditioning together with a separate rear control panel round off the package. Ventilation and a massage function are also available.

The new A8 provides 510 liters of large luggage space, cut very wide. Four golf bags can be fitted crosswise; smaller objects are accommodated in the side compartments. After unlocking, the gate automatically swings up. The standard (in the U.S.) luggage compartment includes a net, two hooks for bags, an umbrella holder and a 12 V outlet. Load-through capability with ski bag and an electric tailgate are also available.


Engines

Superior power and high efficiency - the new Audi A8 makes its debut on the market with a strong V8 engine. With 372 hp, they never fail to impress with their superior power and mighty but discreet propulsion. All engines feature direct fuel injection, and consume 15 percent less fuel than their respective predecessors.

The engine in the A8 has intelligent elements from Audi's modular efficiency system on board. During deceleration the recuperation system converts the kinetic energy to electric power, which is buffered in the battery. In the innovative thermal management a computer monitors numerous actuators for the ideal distribution of the heat flows between the engine, transmission and interior in any situation. After the cold start the engine is temporarily fully uncoupled from the cooling circuit, considerably shortening the warm-up phase with its high loss of friction.

The 4.2 FSI draws 273 kW (372 hp) of power from 4,163 cm3 displacement, generating its maximum of 445 Nm (328.22 lb-ft) torque at 3,500 rpm. It accelerates the Audi A8 from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, with the propulsion ending (as in all engine variants) at the electronically controlled speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

The most important reason for this enhanced power is the reduction of internal friction, especially in the chain drive for the camshafts and auxiliaries. The controlled oil pump with changeover between two pressure stages operates with high efficiency. Like all gasoline engines from Audi, the V8 has FSI direct injection. It allows a high compression of 12.5:1, for increased power and efficiency.

Drivetrain

The new Audi A8 offers the utmost superiority also in power transmission. A new, electronically controlled 8-speed tiptronic system and quattro permanent all- wheel drive from the production line. On request, Audi also installs the dynamic sport differential.

The 8-speed tiptronic is a totally newly developed automatic transmission. Its great strength lies in the high overall gear ratio of 7.0:1 between the shortest and longest gear ratio, reducing the fuel consumption by about six percent. Starting off, the Audi A8 accelerates dynamically, rolling along highways with low, consumption-reducing revs. All gear changes are nearly unnoticeably soft and smooth, very fast and highly flexible.

The 8-speed tiptronic achieves a high level of efficiency. One of the factors behind this is the highly efficient pump for supplying oil, another the heating of the oil by the coolant following a cold start, for lowering frictional loss.

The dynamic shift program (DSP) that controls the transmission features the automatic operating modes D and S. A pioneering innovation from Audi is its networking with the detailed route data supplied by the optional MMI navigation plus system. By means of this data the DSP incorporates upcoming curves in its gearshift strategy - it avoids unnecessary gear changes on narrow roads, for example.

The new selector lever on the center tunnel is for selecting driving modes - shaped like the thrust lever on a yacht, it forms a highlight in the elegant interior of the sedan. The ergonomically perfected lever communicates with the transmission electronically. Gear changes are triggered by a brief tap of the lever, after which it automatically returns to its center position. You can also change gears using the rocker switches on the steering wheel.

The installation position of the new tiptronic follows a special layout - as in many models from Audi: The differential lies in front of the torque converter. The front axle is then moved forwards - the advantages are a long wheelbase, a short front overhang and a finely balanced weight distribution.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system equally contributes to the new A8's leading position. Its mechanical center differential manages normal automotive operation: 60 percent to the differential of the rear axle and 40 percent to the front - a sporty characteristic. Should slip occur at a wheel, the differential sends the large part of the torque to the axle with the better traction.

Customers with a particularly sporty driving style may decide on the optional sport differential with its continuously variable distribution of the drive forces between the rear wheels. With the sport differential the Audi A8 drives as if on the proverbial rails.

The sport differential's controller is connected to the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system. The driver can switch between the system's three characteristics - auto, comfort and dynamic - at any time.


Chassis

The new Audi A8 is the sportiest sedan in the luxury class. Its chassis combines uncompromising precision with great dynamism, superior stability and excellent comfort. Audi drive select is standard, with optional dynamic steering. The large sedan impresses with its sprightly agility. The Audi A8 steers into the corners spontaneously and willingly, driving through them almost neutrally and finding a strong grip on the road at their exit thanks to quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The subframe for the engine and the front axle forms the backbone of the front suspension. The front axle is constructed from five control arms per wheel; its aluminum forged parts provide low unsprung mass and ultra-precise wheel guidance.

All Audi A8 variants roll with the standard speed-dependent servotronic. The steering gear is positioned low and well up front at the subframe; the steering impulse is introduced directly into the wheels through the track rods, with a very spontaneous response. With a sporty and direct gear ratio of 16.1 : 1, the steering conveys a precise and finely differentiated feedback from the road in any situation. Its controlled vane-type pump operates with high efficiency.

The layout of the rear axle follows the track-controlled trapezoidal link principle, which combines compact design with superior driving and comfort qualities. Four steel tubes form the highly rigid axle subframe. The two hollow-cast trapezoidal links, the wheel carriers, the overhead transverse links and the track rods are made of aluminum. Audi's engineers have thoroughly overhauled the suspension. The struts are supported directly by the wheel carrier, so that the dampers respond with even greater sensitivity.

Audi drive select lends fascinating variety to the experience of driving in the new A8 - from highly comfortable, gentle rolling to sporty and exciting cornering. It integrates the adaptive air suspension, the engine, the 8-speed tiptronic and the servotronic. With the MMI the driver can change the characteristics of these systems between the comfort, auto and dynamic modes. Moreover, the driver can compose a fourth operating mode corresponding to his or her personal ideal - the "individual" mode.

Always the right tuning: adaptive air suspension

The adaptive air suspension combines air suspension with controlled damping. The struts are newly developed; an enlarged air capacity now allows a soft characteristic even without an auxiliary accumulator. The bellows and auxiliary air springs sensitively respond even to a slight unevenness in the road surface. The shock absorbers operate with high flexibility - their control unit constantly analyzes the conditions and varies its mode of operation within thousandths of a second.

The adaptive air suspension is a versatile technology. Depending on the speed and the mode specified by Audi drive select, it lowers the body by up to 25 mm, to increase stability and reduce drag and thereby improve fuel consumption. One other operating mode is also available - the "lift" mode slightly raises the body.

Audi drive select also has other components in store - the sport differential and dynamic steering, which varies the steering ratio by nearly 100 percent. At low vehicle speeds - during maneuvering, for example - the steering system operates very directly; the power assistance is also high. As the speed increases, directness and power assistance continuously recede - on highways the Audi A8 glides over the asphalt with stoic calmness.

The dynamic steering cooperates closely with the ESP stabilization system. If necessary, it slightly countersteers in the handling limits when cornering - practically unnoticed by the driver, it reduces understeer and oversteer in most situations.

The new Audi A8 has a powerful brake system on board that is consistently designed for maximum heat dissipation and low weight. All four discs are internally ventilated; up front, stainless steel pins connect the friction rings to the aluminum brake caps. This concept from the sports car sector, new in the luxury class, saves up to 3.75 kg (8.27 lb) of weight per wheel. The ESP stabilization system can be switched off and offers a sport mode.

The range of wheels underscores the strong character of the new Audi A8. The sizes range from 17 to 21 inches. The tires have been optimized with respect to comfort, aerodynamics and rolling resistance.

Safety

The new A8 is one of the safest cars on the market. It protects its passengers with a high-stability body, adaptive restraint systems and with the new Audi pre sense system. It's available in a standard version and in three expanded levels.

In the standard variant - Audi pre sense basic - the system analyzes the information from the ESP sensors. When they signal maximum brake application or skidding, the control unit intervenes. Depending on the situation, it activates the hazard warning lights and closes the side windows and the sunroof; it also tensions the front seat belts. Electric motors trigger this process, which is reversible - if the situation ends well, the belts are released again.

The expanded levels of the system are called Audi pre sense front, Audi pre sense plus and Audi pre sense rear. They are integrated in the optional assistance systems adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and Audi side assist.

In interplay with ACC stop & go, Audi pre sense front monitors the traffic in front of the new Audi A8 and supports the driver in multiple stages. The first is a warning signal, and the second a warning jerk in the form of a brief deceleration. If the driver now depresses the pedal, the brake assist system initiates precise braking relative to the preceding vehicle.

Even an avoidance maneuver - often the better solution - would still be possible. Should the driver remain passive, the third stage follows - autonomous partial braking that slows the Audi A8 at a rate of 3 m/s2. Windows and the sunroof are closed, the hazard warning lights are activated and the seat belts are tensioned.

If the full version of Audi pre sense plus is on board, a fourth stage comes into play: braking with an initial deceleration of 5 m/s2 followed by maximum braking. This phase is initiated roughly one half second before the collision. While a collision can no longer be avoided in this case, its consequences are greatly ameliorated, for up to impact the Audi A8 has reduced the speed by about 40 km/h (24.85 mph).

The Audi pre sense rear system mitigates the consequences of a rear end collision. Here, too, it closes the windows and sunroof and tensions the seat belts. If the Audi A8 has the optional front memory seats on board, they move into a position that protects the passengers well.

The high-stability ASF body affords excellent protection in any type of crash. In the interior the adaptive restraint system stands guard. Particularly with smaller and lighter people it significantly reduces the severity of injuries by intelligently managing the interplay between the front airbags and the belt tension limiters. For side collisions the A8 has side airbags in the backrests of the front seats and the outside rear seats. The two head airbags extend from the A-pillar to the C-pillar.

Assistance systems

The new Audi A8 also demonstrates Audi's concentrated innovative power in its assistance systems, offering a wide, newly echeloned range of high-tech systems. Compared with the competition, they are considerably more efficient and intelligent, thanks to their pioneering new networking.

The radar-aided automatic proximity control system, adaptive cruise control with stop & go, has undergone intensive development. Its two radar sensors are now located in the front end of the Audi A8 in the air inlets.

The system regulates the speed and the proximity to the preceding vehicle in the range of 0 to 250 km/h (155.34 mph). In stop-and-go traffic it decelerates the new A8 to a standstill. In short stops the sedan automatically resumes moving when the preceding vehicle drives off; after a longer stop the driver must tap the accelerator or the cruise control lever.

Informed by the new navigation system, the ACC stop & go function always knows where the Audi A8 is located. It retrieves data from up to 27 control units and operates closely together with the other driver assistance systems, such as the rear radar of the Audi side assist. Thanks to this high level of information the system can detect complex scenarios and make anticipatory decisions in support of the driver.

On the highway, if the car ahead puts on its right turn signal and slows down because its driver wants to exit, the ACC stop & go function recognizes this fact thanks to the camera image and because it can read the exit from the route data supplied by the navigation system. A conventional system would now brake analogously to the car ahead; in many cases the Audi A8 continues on almost without change.

Audi side assist: safety when changing lanes

At speeds of 30 km/h (18.64 mph) and above, Audi side assist operates with two radar sensors in the rear that observe events occurring behind the car. Should another vehicle be moving in the critical area, the yellow LED indicator in the housing of the outside mirror first lights up. If the driver nevertheless activates the turn signal to change lanes, the indicator becomes brighter and begins to blink quickly - a signal that can hardly be overlooked.

At speeds above roughly 65 km/h (40.39 mph), Audi lane assist intervenes when the driver is about to leave the lane inadvertently. A camera above the interior mirror observes the road. Software processes the images, analyzing the lane markings and the course of the sedan. Should it drive onto a line without signaling, Audi lane assist induces a vibration in the steering wheel. The image data is also used by the ACC stop & go function and the continuous headlight range control.

A totally new assistance system also profits from the camera - the speed limit indicator, to follow in mid-2010. It detects speed limit signs along the side of the road and presents them as graphics in the instrument cluster display.

Also debuting in the Audi A8 is the night vision assistant. The heart of this system is a thermal imaging camera sitting behind the four rings at the front of the car. A computer transforms the information from the camera into images and displays them on the display located between the instruments.

The so-called remote infrared technology used by Audi looks ahead by up to 300 meters (984 ft), depending on the driven speed. Because the system reacts to the heat emitted by objects, people and animals are generally displayed conspicuously bright, while the cool road remains dark. The image processing software specifically seeks human contours - yellow markings in the display highlight detected people. If the person's movements lead the control unit to assume a hazard, the person is marked red and a warning gong sounds.

Infotainment systems

Audi has also set the bar significantly higher with regard to multimedia technology with the new A8. The optional MMI navigation plus system provides its data to other technology modules. Its new operating concept with the touchpad - known as MMI touch - is another pioneering idea. The phone, audio and infotainment features are equally state of the art.

The core of the new technologies is the new MMI navigation plus, integrating a large-sized hard disk for navigation, phone and audio data. A graphics processor generates the high-quality, three-dimensional images, which appear in the form of a 3D terrain model. Besides the classic arrows, a new and animated display serves the route guidance.

The database of the new MMI navigation plus describes the road network with countless details. The system analyzes these data predictively, reading the current course of the sedan but always thinking a bit ahead. The data are relayed to the control units managing the ACC Stop & Go, adaptive light and the 8-speed tiptronic so that these systems can precisely adapt their function to conditions well in advance.

MMI touch: a revolution in operation

Audi has entered a revolutionary new path in the operation of MMI navigation plus: it uses a touchpad. To enter the destination or phone number you simply draw the letters or numbers on the control panel with the index finger of your right hand. The system even recognizes Cyrillic, Chinese, Cantonese, Japanese and Korean characters. MMI touch can also be used to navigate on the map. An intelligent auxiliary feature is the Black Panel technology: Here the pad becomes a control panel containing six programmed radio stations.

The new input technology functions intuitively and spontaneously. The driver's right hand is ideally guided by the selector lever of the 8-speed tiptronic. His or her finger draws the lines as if automatically - and the driver's attention remains focused on the road. The system acknowledges the input after each character with an acoustic feedback signal. In contrast to voice control, touchpad input is possible even while conversing or listening to an audio source.

Along with MMI touch, the new Audi A8 also offers conventional operation with the MMI rotary pushbutton. Further improved voice control is also available on request: Places and roads can now be spoken as commands.

A long line of hi-fi elements ensures perfect musical listening pleasure. The Audi music interface is equipped with a USB and an Aux-in connection to form a convenient interface for the customer's iPod or an external video source. Standard in the U.S. is the Bose surround sound system, with a digital amplifier operating 14 speakers through 12 channels with an output of over 600 watts.

The pinnacle of hi-fi listening pleasure: the Advanced Sound System

At the top of the line is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System. It is impressive for its sparkling brilliance, detailed resolution and broad, finely differentiated frequency range. With their digital output stages, two amplifiers with an output of over 1,400 watts operate 19 aluminum-encased speakers through 19 channels. The two acoustic lenses in the cockpit are recessed and extend when the system is started.

The new Audi A8 also offers rear seat entertainment. The backrests of the driver and front passenger seats contain two flat displays with 10.2-inch diagonals. Their inclination is adjustable, and they can separately display different content. The sound passes through headphones. The rear seat entertainment system has its own DVD drive, a 20 GB hard disk, two memory card slots and an AMI interface; it has also has full access to all other infotainment systems on board. A control panel in the rear center armrest serves the operation of the system - another instance of first-class convenience.

Equipment and trim

The A8 is Audi's new technological spearhead - and its equipment underscores this standing. A broad range of high-end features are already standard on this luxury sedan.

In the case of the engines, there is the recuperation system. As for power transmissions, the new flagship shines with its electronically controlled 8-speed tiptronic, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the sport differential.

In the running gear sector the Audi A8 secures an exceptional standing with Audi drive select; the system integrates the adaptive air suspension together with active shock absorber control. The xenon plus headlights, the Audi pre sense basic system and the anti-theft alarm system serve security. The adaptive restraint system and a tire pressure monitoring system reinforce the sense of safety on board.

When it comes to convenience, the new Audi A8 impresses with its electrical fold-in exterior mirrors, the versatile and electrically adjustable front seats, the two-zone automatic air conditioning system, the electrical adjustment of the steering column with easy exit function, the ambient lighting, the electro-mechanical parking brake and the start-stop button.

The MMI operating system and the driver information system with the multifunction steering wheel underscore the Audi brand's leadership role in ergonomics.

The new A8 also moves to the head of its class when it comes to optional extras. In the case of the running gear the dynamic steering deserves special mention. The wheels are up to 21 inches in size, with a sporty tuning of the adaptive air suspension available from Audi on request. The xenon plus headlights are perfectly supplemented by the continuous headlight range control and the adaptive light system, and the innovative full LED headlights give the luxury sedan an especially impressive look.

In matters of safety, advanced levels of the new Audi pre sense technology are optionally available: Audi pre sense front, Audi pre sense rear and Audi pre sense plus, integrated in the adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and in Audi side assist. The night vision assist with its marking of detected pedestrians, Audi lane assist, the parking assistance systems and the speed limit display, which is to follow a bit later, also serve the driver's safety and convenience.

Practical everyday features include the luggage compartment package and the load-through hatch with ski bag, supplemented by the electric tailgate. For the doors there is electric power-assisted closing, for the side windows noise- insulating glass.

High end: the Audi A8's optional extras

The line of luxurious optional extras is especially attractive. Deserving special mention are the deluxe front center armrest, the convenience key for accessing the vehicle, the electric sun blinds for the rear, the 230 V outlet on the tunnel, the four-zone automatic air conditioning, the auxiliary heating and the ambient light package. The comfort seats for the driver and front passenger can be adjusted 22 ways; heating, ventilation and a massage feature with five programs are available on request.

The new Audi A8 also occupies a leading position in navigation and infotainment systems. The top version, MMI navigation plus, reads the course of the route in advance. The MMI touch also serves operation - another solution from Audi that sets new standards. Three sound systems, including the top-notch system from Bang & Olufsen, are truly music to the ears, while a fully integrated rear seat entertainment system is available for the rear. The new Audi A8 also has intelligent technologies on board for utilizing internet services.

For the distinct individualists among its customers Audi has developed a wide range of interior colors, upholstery and inlays. The Audi design selection impresses with especially exclusive combinations, and with various optional packages containing leather, Alcantara and decorative applications.





[Source : AUDI]
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