Renault Fluence was designed with the aim of standing out as the most attractive car of its class and several features set it apart from rivals: beneath its strong, sporting exterior, Fluence features a comfortable cabin and a barrage of useful technological aids.



Fluence targets customers looking for a status-enhancing saloon and will be built on the existing assembly line at the Oyak-Renault plant in Bursa, Turkey, where the booted Mégane II was previously produced.


Passenger comfort is optimized by generous dimensions:

• 4,620mm long, 1,809mm wide, 1,479mm high and a wheelbase of 2,702mm,
  
• 530dm3 of boot space,
  
• more passenger space than any main rival, including 1,480mm of elbow room at the front and 1,475mm at the rear.

An ergonomically sound driving position:

• Fluence's dashboard features elegant, flowing lines and key functions fall easily to hand these include the controls for the navigation and climate control systems, the steeringwheel-mounted radio and telephone fingertip remote controls and the controls for the cruise control/speed limiter,
  
• the driver's seat has a huge range of adjustments, 240mm fore or aft and +/-35mm in terms of height; the steering wheel can be adapted for rake and reach, too.

A comfortable, welcoming cabin:

• the 60/40-spilt rear seat is wide and comfortable,
  
• the cabin features more than 23 litres of stowage space, including an illuminated, refrigerated glovebox (nine litres) and a 2.2-litre centre console cubby,
  
• a climate control system with front and rear vents is standard, even on entry-level models; automatic dual-zone climate control is available as an option.

A raft of user-friendly, high-tech features more commonly associated with top-of-the range models:

• hands-free entry and ignition card with automatic locking of the doors as the card-holder walks away from the vehicle,
  
• the new, integrated Carminat TomTom^® navigation system for less than €500,
  
• a wide range of audio options including the range-topping 3D Sound by Arkamys^® system, Bluetooth^® telephony and 'Plug & Music' digital connectivity.

A blend of outstanding comfort and top-class roadholding embellished by engines which combine punch with fuel economy:

• a chassis that aligns efficiency with comfort and driving pleasure,
  
• a comprehensive choice of engines, with four petrol and five diesel Renault eco² options.

Rigorously designed to meet even the most exacting customer's demands:

• a comprehensive range of leading safety features: standard ABS and emergency braking assist, ESC, up to six airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, cruise control with speed limiter, etc.,
  
• reliability and durability proven by a ferocious testing regime; our quality control systems are designed with certain markets' most demanding road conditions in mind.

A strong environmental stance:

• all diesel models in the Fluence range have a CO₂ emissions rating of 119g/km and qualify for the Renault eco² signature,
  
• in 2011, the Renault range will be boosted by the introduction of an all-electric version of Fluence – proof that attractive, comfortable, spacious cars are by no means incompatible with respect for the environment.

Renault Fluence goes on sale in Turkey from November and will benefit from the Mégane II fourdoor's fine reputation in three best-selling markets: Turkey, Russia and Romania.





[Source : RENAULT]
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TURIN : August 31, 2009 - The Fiat Punto Evo, the evolution of the Grande Punto, will make its debut at the next Frankfurt Motor Show. It is destined to repeat the success of its predecessor and become the new pacesetter for innovation, safety and style, thanks to its many innovative features.


The epithet “Evo” identifies a level of car design that is capable of satisfying even the most demanding customers in terms of technology, driving pleasure and respect for the environment.

The Punto Evo expresses its technical excellence first and foremost through a wide choice of Euro 5 engines, including a 1.3 second generation Multijet diesel and a 1.4 petrol engine with the revolutionary MultiAir technology developed by Fiat Powertrain Technologies and eventually to be incorporated in all Fiat Group engines. Fiat’s innovative and conventional powerplants are also joined by dual-fuel methane and petrol units to create the most complete and ecological range of engines in the segment. With reduced consumption and emissions in mind, the new Punto Evo also offers Start&Stop, the system that switches off and restarts the engine in stop-and-go traffic. Start&Stop is being introduced as standard on all Euro5 petrol and diesel engines. Another system making its first appearance on the Punto Evo is “Blue&Me–TomTom”, the new portable satellite navigation unit that lets you manage telephone, navigation and information functions on a practical colour touch-screen.

In the area of safety, the Punto Evo sets new standards thanks to 7 airbags, including a driver knee airbag. The Punto Evo is one of very few cars in its segment with a driver knee airbag fitted as standard on all versions. Other innovative safety systems are also available, including Hill-Holder to help with hill starts, adaptive 'cornering' front fog lights that switch on automatically with dipped headlights according to the angle of steering, and Fiat’s tried and tested ABS, EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) systems.

Finally, the new Punto Evo is even more attractive thanks to the work of Fiat’s Centro Stile. The interiors (fascia, seats and instrumentation) have been completely renewed to become even more prestigious and elegant, and the outside has been given a thoroughly restyled look too.

The Fiat Punto Evo goes on sale in the second half of October with the precise objective of consolidating its role as one of Europe’s market leaders in the highly important compact segment.


Technical innovation

The Punto Evo expresses its technical excellence first and foremost through a wide choice of engines Euro 5, including petrol units equipped with the revolutionary MultiAir system and second generation Multijet diesels.

Developed and patented by FPT – Fiat Powertrain Technologies – MultiAir technology will gradually be adopted by all engines fitted to Fiat Group cars. The heart of MultiAir is a new electrohydraulic valve management system that reduces fuel consumption by controlling air directly via the inlet valves (without using the throttle). MultiAir reduces emissions (thanks to improved combustion control) and also improves performance by boosting both power and torque.

Similar results have been achieved in diesel versions thanks to the adoption of second generation Multijet units across the range. These engines incorporate new common rail injectors that, thanks to a balanced hydraulic servo-valve, control the quantity of fuel injected into the combustion chamber with improved precision, and in a faster and more flexible sequence than in the past.

The choice of engines available for the Punto Evo is the most complete and ecological in this market segment, and even includes two alternative fuel engines, a methane and an LPG unit.

The new Punto Evo is even equipped with the latest version of the Blue&Me system. “Blue&Me–TomTom” is a fully integrated infotainment system that lets you manage telephone, navigation and information functions on a practical colour touch-screen. The system is the result of a partnership between Fiat Group Automobiles and TomTom, European leader in portable navigation systems, and integrates with the car’s other systems thanks to the Blue&Me system developed in conjunction with Magneti Marelli. The new system also incorporates “eco:Drive Info” for real time information on your driving style and useful suggestions for reducing environmental impact and optimising consumption by changing gear and using the accelerator to suit the nature of the route.


Respect for the environment

At Fiat, innovation means greater respect for the environment too. In fact, the environment is one of the main issues driving product development, and ensures that the Fiat range is the greenest in Europe. The Punto Evo is no exception to this rule.

The new MultiAir engines prove the point. Compared to a conventional petrol engine of the same size, a MultiAir engine develops more power (up to 10%) and torque (up to 15%), while consuming significantly less (up to 10%) and emitting less CO2 (up to 10%), less particulates (up to 40%) and less NOx (up to 60%).

In the same way the second generation of Multijet diesel engines also offers more accurate combustion, with benefits for consumption, emissions, NVH and drivability. This has been achieved through a new common rail injector that modulates fuel injection into the combustion chamber and gives, for the Euro 5 engines, an improvement of around 2% in consumption and CO2 emissions on the homologation cycle, and a reduction in NOx emissions of up to 30%.

Still with reduced consumption and emissions in mind, the new Punto Evo will also offer Start&Stop, the system that switches off the engine when you stop and restarts it for you to move off again (at traffic lights for example). Start&Stop will be standard on all Euro5 petrol and diesel engines.

The methane-fuelled engine is not only the most ecological dual fuel engine in segment B, producing only 115 g/km of CO2, but is also the most economical thanks to record running costs of under 4 Euros per 100 km. Among other advantages, methane-fuelled engines benefit from the highest government incentives in Italy: 5,000 Euros if combined with a contribution for scrapping your old car.

Then there is the LPG-fuelled version, developed using Fiat’s longstanding experience in alternative fuels to respond to the extraordinary growth seen in this market. The Punto Evo GPL boasts record autonomy of 1,500 km in the extra-urban cycle, and running costs up to 50% lower than a petrol equivalent.


Safety

The Punto Evo is designed and built to achieve the highest levels of safety. The model boasts a large number of safety systems (standard or optional depending on market and version) starting from those dedicated to passive safety: 2 front airbags, 2 front side airbags, 2 window bags and a driver knee airbag (the Punto Evo is one of the few cars in this segment on which this device is standard on all versions).

The Punto Evo is also one of the few cars in its class equipped with adaptive 'cornering' front fog lights that switch on automatically with dipped headlights according to the angle of steering. And don’t forget that the new Punto Evo also guarantees constant and reliable road holding thanks to electronic dynamic control systems for braking and steering. The ABS system that is available across the complete engine range incorporates EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and Hill-holder to help with hill-starts.

Style and comfort

The Punto Evo is more stunning than ever thanks to the work of Fiat’s Centro Stile. In particular, the interiors of the new model have been completely redesigned to represent the most evolved expression of Italian style, with top quality materials and superb attention to detail. The result is a bright and elegant cabin with completely renewed fascia, seats, storage compartments and instrumentation.

On the outside, both the front and the rear have been thoroughly restyled, as shown by the attractive lines of the new bumpers and the incorporation of innovative and original headlights and taillights. The latest design has also “stretched” the car to a total length of 406 centimetres, so that its winning characteristics of driver and passenger comfort remain unchanged. The other external dimensions remain the same, with a width of 169 cm, a height of 149 cm and a wheelbase of 251 cm.

[Source : FIAT]
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SPA FRANCOSCHAMPS : August 30, 2009 - Kimi Räikkönen (Ferrari) won the Belgian GP at Spa on Sunday after a lap-one incident eliminated four cars including world champion Lewis Hamilton.


Räikkönen hit the front on the fourth lap but he was hounded from start to finish by pole man Giancarlo Fisichella who finished in second place, less than a second behind.

Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull-Renault) was third, 2.9 sec behind.

It was Force India's first championship points and underlined Fisichella's pace in qualifying when he took pole position.

Despite five mediocre races in a row, Jenson Button, who failed to finish at Spa after being eliminated on the first lap, was able to retain his lead in the drivers' world championship by 16 points.

Giancarlo Fisichella took the lead in the Belgian GP at Spa on Saturday after taking pole position on Saturday.

Rubens Barrichello, who was fourth on the grid, was left standing at the start as most cars got through the La Source hairpin without incident. Kimi Räikkönen (Ferrari) went wide at the hairpin and rejoined the track in third place. Fisichella was leading and being chased by Robert Kubica (BMW Sauber) but Räikkönen had a run at him down the back straight and got past into second.

The top few cars got through Le Comte, but Jenson Button (Brawn-Mercedes) got hit from behind by rookie Romain Grosjean (Renault) under braking and Button spun. causing the cars behind to brake hard and Lewis Hamilton (McLaren-Mercedes) was hit by Jaime Alguersuari (Toro Rosso-Ferrari), all four cars retiring on the spot as the safety car was deployed.

The race got back under way on the fourth lap, and Räikkönen used the advantage of the Kinetic Energy Recovery System on his Ferrari to power past Fisichella on the back straight and take the lead.

Barrichello, still recovering from his poor start, got past Luca Badoer (Ferrari) into 13th place on lap 5.

Giancarlo Fisichella had placed his Force India-Mercedes on pole, his team's first ever, but he had been fuelled light and only Rubens Barrichello (Brawn-Mercedes) was lighter of the top ten cars on the grid.

With a clear track ahead and his tyres now up to working temperature, Räikkönen reeled off a series of fastest laps with a 1'49.090 on lap 6 as Barrichello got past Kazuki Nakajima (Williams-Toyota) into 12th. Räikkönen set a new target of 1'47.749 on the eighth lap.

Glock and Kubica were the first cars to make a routine stop for fuel and tyres, rejoining inside the top ten.

Nick Heidfeld (BMW Sauber) was fourth and easily able to match the pace of the race leader and he set a new fastest lap of 1'47.738 on lap 132.

Jarno Trulli had placed his Toyota on the front row of the grid, but was running down in 12th place.

On lap 13, Webber and Heidfeld pitted together. Heidfeld left his pit and came down the pit lane, but Webber dived out of his pit in front of the German, forcing him to brake and swerve, and the Australian was given a drive-through penalty for dangerous driving.

Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull-Renault) was next to have a go on the quickest time, setting a 1'47.646 on lap 14 and taking the lead as his tanks emptied. He pitted two laps later dropping back into eighth place.

After the first round of pit stops, Räikkönen regained the lead. It was his 150th grand prix and he was the only driver on the grid to have won at Spa.

Fisichella was easily able to match the pace of Räikkönen and the Force India-Mercedes was just a second behind the Ferrari after 20 laps of racing, with Kubica a further 6.1 sec back.

On lap 23, Trulli returned to the pits and was wheeled into the Toyota garage and retirement, a sad result from his front-row start.

On lap 24, Fernando Alonso (Renault) pitted but there were problems with his left front wheel spinner after a lap-one incident had damaged it. The long stop cost him about 20 seconds and he rejoined the race in 14th place. The spinners give cars an advantage of just 0.1 sec a lap and they will be banned from next year. Alonso's pit crew radioed Alonso to tell him to return to the pits due to a problem with the front left wheel. Alonso was penalised after a similar incident in Hungary when a wheel not properly tightened by his pit crew fell off his car. He pitted and retired for the second time in two races with the same problem.

Fisichella was still maintaining maximum pressure on race leader Räikkönen and was just a second behind. Kubica was still in touch, five sec behind Fisichella, with Vettel four seconds adrift.

There was a nice dice for seventh place between Glock and Webber who was just 0.7 sec behind. Behind them, Heikki Kovalainen (McLaren-Mercedes) and Sébastien Buemi (Toro Rosso-Ferrari) were disputing ninth place.

Kubica pitted on lap 30, releasing Vettel to be able to try to reel in second-placed Fisichella.

On the next lap, race leader and second-placed Räikkönen and Fisichella pitted together. There was slick work by both pits and the Finn retained his lead one second ahead of the Italian. Vettel now became the race leader as he had further to go before his second pit stop.

Heidfeld was down in fifth place, 3.9 sec behind Kubica, and homing in on the cars ahead, setting a new fastest lap of 1'47.541 on lap 34. He repeated the feat on the next lap with a 1'47.371.

Räikkönen was back in the lead after Vettel's final stop and he still had Fisichella less than a second behind him with Vettel in third, 5.0 sec behind.

With three laps remaining, Barrichello was right behind Kovalainen and trying to get past into sixth place, but the Brazilian's engine began smoking and his pit crew told him to back off and save the motor. He did so and let Kovalainen off the hook.

With two laps left, Barrichello's car began smoking badly as Rosberg and Webber closed in for the kill. But the Brazilian held on to the line, with the two pursuers crossing the line right behind him.







[Source : Super Wheels , F1 Official]
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BUDAPEST : August 30, 2009 - In bright sunshine and in front of a crowd of 15,000 people at the Hungaroring, Czech team K plus K Motorsport took its second win of the season, after an action-packed race for Karl Wendlinger and Ryan Sharp.



They finished ahead of the nr 1 Vitaphone Maserati MC 12 of Michael Bartels and Andrea Bertolini, who, despite 80 kg success ballast, regained the lead of the GT1 Drivers classification, with the nr 33 Vitaphone Racing Team DHL Maserati MC 12 of Alessandro Pier Guidi and Matteo Bobbi third. Hezemans and Kumpen, in the nr 4 Pekaracing Corvette, were sixth, losing their points lead but also significantly reducing the weight of their car for the next round in the Algarve.

In GT2, the nr 60 Prospeed Competition Porsche 997 GT3 RSR recovered from the back of the grid to overtake the nr 50 AF Corse Ferrari and secure the victory on the very last lap, Richard Westbrook and Emmanuel Collard claiming their third win of 2009. Toni Vilander and Gianmaria Bruni finished second, despite carrying a total of 100 kg penalty weight, to retain a two-point lead. Paolo Ruberti and Matteo Malucelli, in the nr 77 BMS Scuderia Italia Ferrari 430 GT2, finished third; their best result of the season so far.

Luis Perez Companc, in the nr 95 Pecom Racing Team Ferrari 430 GT2, won the Citation Cup for gentlemen drivers.

2009 FIA GT1 Driver Championship after 5 rounds

[Source : Official FIA GT]
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These figures make the hearts of sports car drivers beat faster: 600 HP (441 kW), acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, top speed of 322 km/h. The car to which these impressive performance figures belong is the ABT R8 5.2 FSI. Its V10 engine draws plenty of power from its large 5,204 cubic centimetre capacity – all the more if ABT POWER gives it an extra boost. 75 extra HP or 55 more kW provides a powerful trust at all speeds as well as increasing the torque.


The fact that the medium-engine super sports car becomes a winner on any track is not just due to its excellent performance characteristics, but also the perfectly coordinated bodywork package. It has been designed by the DTM crew of ABT Sportsline according to the latest motorsport knowledge, including the use of high-end carbon materials. The focus was above all on the optimum distribution of weight and a systematic light-weight construction. “The 600 HP is not just intended to exist on paper, but also be available on the road”, says Christian Abt. At the same time the ABT R8 thereby looks extremely dynamic. The front spoiler, side sills and rear apron outline the bodywork and give it a more powerful presence even when at a standstill. They form one unit with the distinctive rear wing and the typical ABT 4-pipe exhaust system.

The super sports car is presented on BR-type 20-inch wheels which suit the classic design. The ABT R8 5.2 FSI is a design milestone and is of course very, very fast. This is because the 600 ABT horsepower contain, what the dynamic design of the car promises.






[Source : ABT Sportlines]
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MUNICH : August 30, 2009 - This BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car will be presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show. This vehicle is a Plug-In Hybrid, with two drive-trains, a 3-cylinder Diesel engine, and an electric drive - combining fuel efficiency and driving pleasure with the acceleration of an M3.



Character:

• High-performance concept study with BMW ActiveHybrid technology visualising the dynamic performance typical of a BMW against the backdrop of future demands in sustained mobility. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics as a symbol for the future of Sheer Driving Pleasure in harmony with trendsetting efficiency.
  
• Development aim: The performance of a BMW M Car and a highly emotional character combined with the fuel economy and emission management of a modern small car in the premium class. As a result, this unique sports car offers the most consistent rendition of the BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy.
  
• Innovative approach in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics: The exceedingly good balance of CO₂ emission management and driving pleasure results from a revolutionary vehicle concept developed all in one from the ground up, achieving a new level of efficiency combined with a unique driving experience. The overall result goes far beyond the sum total of the individual features and components in this concept car.
  
• BMW Vision EfficientDynamics offers a realistic impression of the unique potential of BMW ActiveHybrid technology and the great innovative thrust of BMW EfficientDynamics.

Technology:

• Offering a full-hybrid concept, the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car is powered by a three-cylinder turbodiesel and two electric motors. Overall system output is 262 kW/356 hp, maximum torque 800 Newton-metres/590 lb-ft. All-wheel drive featuring an electric motor on both the front and rear axle.
  
• Anticipated performance: Acceleration from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, top speed 250 km/h (155 mph) (electronically limited) , fuel consumption in the EU test cycle 3.76 litres/100 km (equal to 75.1 mph imp), CO₂ emissions 99 grams/kilometre.
  
• As a plug-in hybrid, BMW Vision EfficientDynamics is able to cover the entire fuel consumption drive cycle under electric power alone. Taking the sources of energy used for generating the electric power consumed into account (EU electricity mix), this reduces the CO₂ emission rating to just 50 grams per kilometre.
  
• Electric power is generated without the slightest increase in fuel consumption through a particularly efficient concept of Brake Energy Regeneration. Energy is stored in 98 lithium polymer cells. The car is able to cover a distance of approximately 50 km/31 miles in the electric mode alone.
  
• Aerodynamics developed with know-how from Formula 1. CX drag coefficient optimised to just 0.22. Forward-looking energy management uses the maximum potential available in each case to minimise fuel consumption.

Design:

• Technology-oriented body design as a clear expression of consistent lightweight technology and aerodynamic quality. Design language typical of the brand, setting clear signals in terms of sporting performance and optimum efficiency.
  
• The 2+2-seater concept combines dynamic performance and supreme efficiency with an enhanced level of all-round function. BMW Vision EfficientDynamics symbolises BMW’s commitment to offer an unprecedented driving experience for up to four occupants.
  
• BMW Vision EfficientDynamics comes with gullwing doors opening up to the side. Innovative, weight-optimised door kinematics makes entering the car at both front and rear convenient and very easy.
  
• The interior of this unique 2+2-seater intentionally demonstrates the very latest in modern technology. At the same time the use of natural materials underlines BMW’s strategy of sustainability borne out through this concept car.
  
• The roof and door inserts made of polycarbonate glass automatically become darker as a function of incoming light.

[Source : BMW]
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TOKYO : August 28, 2009 - Lexus to launch the improved "GS" Sedan for Japanese Market on September 14th.



In this improvement, the driver's seat Active Head Restraint to reduce whiplash injuries, in addition to the standard front passenger seat, "Map on Demand" - HDD car navigation system can update the map of communication, In the center console is a portable audio player can be connected to USB (in the center console) was added. Adding with three new exterior colors. The interior is set with a black semi-aniline leather seat and leather, and ivory and bright colors that are more traditional settings.


At the same time, a hybrid model "GS450h" only other change is attached to the 18-inch wheel design, front grille, new interior color and power switch.

Pricing : Started at ¥ 552 million.


[Source : LEXUS]
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POMPANO BEACH, FL. : August 28, 2009 - Steeda Autosports has once again risen above the bar and crossed the boundaries of the ever growing crossover vehicle market by creating the Steeda Edge Sport, establishing a whole new breed in the process. The Steeda Edge Sport is the perfect answer to those that want to have it all. This vehicle provides unparalleled quality, superior technology, exquisite performance and unique styling to compliment the practicality inherent in a crossover vehicle. Those with an active lifestyle need not compromise or settle for something less. Form, function and fun all merge with the Steeda Edge Sport.


Utilizing the solid Edge platform that Ford Motor Company has developed, and drawing upon over two decades of experience in working closely with Ford Motor Company and its products, Steeda took the Ford Edge to a level never seen before in the marketplace – creating a crossover vehicle that is worthy of the Steeda name – The Steeda Edge Sport. This latest offering demonstrates why Steeda is the industry leader and also in a class of its own.

This customized version of America’s best-selling crossover is available with many appearance modifications, including 22-inch polished aluminum rims, a stylish 8-piece body kit, blackout headlamps and tail lamps, a dark brushed interior center stack and bold contrast stitching on the shift knob and steering wheel. Inside this highly-crafted showpiece, leather seats and billeted trim deliver increased comfort and an amped-up attitude that create balanced synergy between the driver, vehicle and the open road.

The Steeda Edge Sport also offers a host of performance modifications, fine-tuned as only Steeda can deliver, including added power and sportier handling. Such results in a vehicle that responds remarkably to driver input without hesitation, and which delivers road-hugging stability and sportiness not before available in a crossover vehicle. Supplementing with flair and panache, unique Steeda exterior graphics let the whole world know that this Steeda Edge Sport is something quite special –
a Steeda. Go with the brand you know and trust, make a statement, be in a class of your own.

Each Steeda Edge Sport vehicle will be custom built to your particular specifications to satisfy your individual needs. The standard package includes a Ford Edge SEL AWD, with a 3.5L Duratech V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission. Options include the following:

Steeda Sport Edge Specs

• 22" bright polished aluminum wheels
  
• 8 piece body kit
  
• Unique headlamp / tail lamp blackout treatment
  
• Contrast stitching on shift knob and steering wheel
  
• Dark brushed center console trim
  

Powertrain

• Steeda cold air intake with cool-tube technology
  
• Steeda throttle body spacer
  
• Magnaflow cat-back exhaust system
  
• Steeda/SCT custom performance tune
  

Chassis

• Steeda sport springs
  
• Steeda front and rear swaybars
  
• Steeda strut tower brace
  
• Tokico shocks and struts
  

Brakes

• Brembo 6 Piston Brake Kit w/ 15" two piece rotors
  

Tires

• 285/30-22 Nitto Invo High Performance Tires
  

Exterior

• Steeda graphics package
  

Interior

• Steeda custom leather interior
  
• Steeda billet interior trim pieces
  

The Steeda Edge Sport is a fine addition the existing full line of Steeda performance vehicles. From our world class Steeda Q-Series of high performance Mustangs, the Steeda Focus, and the Steeda Fusion, aficionados of Ford vehicles need not look any further for their automotive performance needs. Each vehicle underscores the commitment that Steeda Autosports has made to consistently deliver the best possible performance and value to the Ford performance enthusiast.











[Source : STEEDA Autosports]
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• The S5 Sportback uses a powerful, supercharged V6
  
• A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro with stunningly clean exhaust
  
• The A3 1.2 TFSI consumes just 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (42.77 mpg)

INGOLSTADT : August 28, 2009 - Audi will unveil three new vehicles at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show (IAA): the remarkably dynamic S5 Sportback, the extremely low-emission A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro, and the especially efficient A3 1.2 TFSI. These innovative engines boast some very different key data, yet they share something in common: They embody Audi’s conviction that dynamics and efficiency are not mutually exclusive; on the contrary, they go hand in hand and are mutually complementary.


Elegant dynamics: Audi S5 Sportback
The S5 Sportback is the pinnacle of the new Sportback model line. This elegant, five-door coupé is propelled by a three-liter V6 with a mechanical compressor. From a displacement of 2,995 cm3 (182.77 in3), the small turbo engine delivers 245 kW (333 hp) and 440 Nm (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. The S5 Sportback sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.4 seconds [provisional figure]; its top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is limited by an electronic governor. It averages just 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 mpg) [provisional figures] — the best in this power-output category.

Concerning the powertrain, the Audi S5 Sportback similarly underscores its superiority: a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive are standard equipment. Upon request, Audi will include the sport differential. It variably distributes power on the rear axle between the rear wheels. This new “top model” has a sportily configured chassis with 18-inch aluminum wheels fitted with 245/40 tires; black brake calipers bear S5 emblems at the front. Speed-dependent servotronic steering is also standard.

Small yet striking exterior and interior features visually distinguish the Audi S5 Sportback. Equipment highlights include electrically adjustable S sports seats covered with Silk Nappa leather. Sales of the Audi S5 Sportback will start in Spring 2010; its basic price will be 57,900 euros.

Extremely clean: Audi A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro
Audi debuted the 3.0 TDI clean diesel engine in its large Q7 SUV; now, the world’s cleanest diesel technology will also be available in the best-selling A4.

A package of technologies boasts an array of innovative solutions for engines and the after-treatment of exhaust gas.

At the engine, a new common-rail injection system (which generates up to 2,000 bars of pressure), innovative pressure sensors in the combustion chamber, and an especially high-performance exhaust recirculating system collectively ensure a highly efficient and low-emission combustion process. A novel DeNOX catalytic converter, integrated within the end of the exhaust system, reduces residual nitrogen oxides. Just upstream of it, a pump injects an additive named AdBlue into the hot exhaust flow; there, this aqueous solution decomposes into ammonia — which splits the nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water.

The A4 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro already complies with the emission limits of the EU’s Euro 6 standard, expected to become law in 2014. It is also very fuel-efficient, averaging only 6.7 liters (Avant: 6.8 liters) of fuel per 100 km (35.11 and 34.59 miles per U.S. gallon). And this TDI engine is indeed a powerful performer, needing only 6.2 seconds (Avant: 6.3 seconds) to go from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph). Top speed is electronically governed to 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

In conjunction with a six-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, this vehicle guarantees a high degree of comfort and superior traction.

Efficient Downsizing: Audi A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI
Downsizing is a cornerstone of Audi’s efficiency strategy — and Audi is relentlessly committed. The A3 model line will soon introduce yet another turbocharged gasoline engine featuring lower displacement. It unites maximum performance with minimum consumption.

Designed from scratch, the new 1.2 TFSI generates 77 kW (105 hp) from a displacement of 1,197 cm3 (73.05 in3). And as is typical of Audi, turbocharging and direct gasoline injection once again perfectly comprise a technological one-two punch. Thanks to an aluminum crankcase, this four-cylinder engine weighs just 89.5 kilograms (197.31 pounds); this remarkably low weight also boosts its efficiency.

The 1.2 TFSI has been optimized to minimize friction. Eight valves are actuated by a single camshaft. A common-rail system injects the fuel. An electric control valve operates the turbocharger’s wastegate valve; boost pressure builds up spontaneously and scavenging losses drop.

This small engine generates 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between just 1,500 and 3,500 rpm. It propels the three-door A3 1.2 TFSI from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph) in 11.1 seconds; the Sportback, in 11.3 seconds. Both versions reach a top speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph) and, on average, consume just 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (42.77 mpg) — emitting just 127 grams of CO2 per kilometer (204.39 g/mile).

Sales of the A3 and A3 Sportback 1.2 TFSI will begin in the first quarter of 2010. The new engine will initially be paired with front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission.











[Source : AUDI]
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STUTTGART : August 28, 2009 - Mercedes-Benz is launching its first series-produced fuel cell car on the road: the new B-Class F-CELL. The environmentally friendly electric car has better a performance similar to than a 2,0-litre petrol car and is fully suited for everyday driving. The zero-emission drive system consumes the equivalent of 3.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the NEDC (New European Driving Cicle). Production of the B-Class F-CELL will commence in late 2009 with a small lot. The first of around 200 vehicles will be delivered to customers in Europe and the USA at the beginning of next year.


The new fuel cell vehicle offers everything that people expect from a Mercedes-Benz: High comfort and safety as well as no reduction in interior space and boot capacity. Customers will not have to sacrifice any driving pleasure either, because the electric motor has a peak performance of 100 kW/136 hp and a maximum torque of 290 Nm, which is available from the first rotation. It ensures that the B-Class F-CELL, whose impressive dynamic handling properties are in some cases far better than those of a two-litre petrol car, gets off to an excellent start. Despite these qualities, the zero-emission fuel cell drive consumes the equivalent of only 3.3 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). Thanks to its great range of about 400 kilometres and short refuelling times of around three minutes, the B-Class F-CELL ensures local zero-emission mobility even for long stretches.

"2009 is the year in which we are establishing further milestones where sustainable mobility is concerned. The B-Class F-CELL is taking on a pioneering role as the world’s first fuel cell powered automobile to be produced under series production conditions", says Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Development for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The vehicle’s technological heart is the new generation of the compact, high-performance fuel cell system, in which gaseous hydrogen reacts with atmospheric oxygen at 700 bar to generate a current for the electric motor. The fuel cell system of the B-Class F-CELL has a very good cold-start capability even at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. The drive system was completely newly developed versus the F-CELL A-Class presented in 2004, with Mercedes-Benz engineers achieving considerable improvements in output, torque, operating range, reliability, starting characteristics and comfort. The B-Class F-CELL now offers driving pleasure and day-to-day suitability at Mercedes level – without local emissions.

As in hybrids with combustion engines, the fuel-cell car uses a lithium-ion battery with an output of 35 kW and a capacity of 1.4 kWh to boost power and recover braking energy. Lithium-ion technology offers several advantages over conventional batteries, including compact dimensions, high performance, great recharge efficiency and a long service life.

The B-Class F-CELL employs the unique sandwich floor architecture that is well-known from the A- and B-Class. The advantage of this design is that the drive components are located in the sandwich floor, where they are protected and don’t take up much space so that the vehicle’s interior remains fully usable and a boot capacity of 416 litres is available.

The B-Class F-CELL does not need to fear comparison where equipment is concerned either. Eye-catching features include a bonamite silver paint finish and exclusive light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design. In the interior, leather upholstery, seat heating, automatic climate control and the COMAND-system, as well as other features, continue to ensure a high level of comfort.

Same level of safety as in other Mercedes cars
No matter what the conditions, the operational reliability of the B-Class F-CELL is of the same high level as in Mercedes vehicles with conventional combustion engines. The B-Class F-CELL’s integrated safety concept takes the specific characteristics of the innovative drive system into account. The concept incorporates the expertise from the many years of experience Mercedes-Benz has had with fuel cell drives and high-voltage applications. Mercedes engineers have tested and optimised the drive-specific components’ safety in more than 30 additional crash tests.

Network of filling stations required for car’s widespread use
With more than 100 test vehicles and a combined total of over 4.5 million kilometres of trial testing, Daimler and Mercedes-Benz have the most extensive experience with fuel cell vehicles of any manufacturer worldwide. The B-Class F-CELL is further testimony of this technology’s high level of development for automotive use. However, a comprehensive network of hydrogen filling stations still has to be set up before locally zero-emission driving can become a widespread reality. To make this possible, Daimler is cooperating with government authorities, energy utilities and oil companies in joint projects in places such as Hamburg, Stuttgart and California.
Mercedes-Benz views the development of electric cars with battery and fuel cell drives for local zero-emission driving as a means of supplementing vehicles with high-tech internal combustion engines. Advanced diesel and petrol engines will remain important for automotive applications for a long time to come - not only for individual mobility in passenger cars - especially over long distances - but, more importantly, for freight transport in trucks. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, will increasingly be used in urban transport.













[Source : DAIMLER]
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DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS – The all-new 2010 Toyota 4Runner is headed for Dallas to make its world debut at the State Fair of Texas during a news conference on Sept. 24. More rugged than ever, the new fifth-generation 4Runner offers sure-footed off-road capability and increased comfort with added roominess. More than 1.8 million 4Runners have been sold since it was introduced in 1984, and more than 70 percent are still on the road. The State Fair of Texas runs Sept. 25 to Oct. 18.



[Source : TOYOTA]
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The M version of the BMW Z4 is famously known by nature for being anything but underpowered, since the chassis of the sports convertible already has a heck of a lot of work with the 343 HP and the forward thrust in the lower gears could last forever.


As is generally known however, the sport oriented motorist can never have enough power at his command. Sufficient cause for Günther Manhart, who by now has over 25 years experience in rebuilding BMW engines - a first for Europe - to transplant a brand new, much stronger heart into the Z4. The transplantation of the ten cylinder engine from the current M5 generation into the narrow engine bay of the roadster was anything but a walk in the park and it earned the Manhart Racing engineers quite a few grey hairs. Nevertheless: everything fitted in the end and now the fire of a 5.0 litre V10 engine with an impressive output of 550 HP blazes above the front axle of the Z4. A catalytic converter, a modified DME electronic control unit and the removal of the factory-set V-Max restriction up to 250 km/h are part of the rebuild. Consistent to the M5 V10 engine Manhart Racing has treated the Z4 to an original M5 E60 6 gear manual transmission which includes a Fichtel & Sachs clutch and a M5 E60 differential. An AC Schnitzer stainless steel exhaust system with four muffler tips which was fitted with HJS racing catalytic converters caters for a perfect V10 sound at the rear.

The Manhart Z4 M V10 goes like hell and thanks to the perfectly tuned Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers, the virtually unrestrained power of 550 HP can be brought under control to the tarmac. Black BBS Challenge wheels rotate in the wheel arches of the Manhart Z4 M V10 with 8.5Jx19 ET35 235/35ZR19 front tyres and 10Jx19 ET20 285/30ZR19 back tyres.

Conclusion: 550 HP ten cylinders, an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, kerb weight 1450kg, 2.6kg per HP... who could guess that these impressive figures belong to a Z4? Hardly anyone, however Manhart Racing turns dreams into reality and does this with 25 years experience.



[Source : Manhart Racing]
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Wald International released Sports Line Black Bison body kit for Lexus RX350 and Lexus 450h.


The Sports Line Black Bison body kit includes: Front spoiler, Side step door panels, Rear skirt with LED brake light, Rear gate spoiler and exhaust system with D.T.M Sports Muffler.



[Source : WALD]
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MARANELLO : August 27, 2009 – In the run-up to the official unveiling of the Ferrari 458 Italia at the Frankfurt Motor Show on the 15th of September, enthusiasts can find out more about the car on www.ferrari.com. There they will find the first photographs of the 458 Italia’s interior and of the steering wheel and instrument binnacle which represent a significant step forward in the concept of the ergonomic interface between driver and car.


In fact the main commands are now grouped on the steering wheel, the secondary commands are handily set in two satellite pods either side of the dash and there are now comprehensive instrument displays on the panel ahead of the driver. These solutions represent an important safety aspect, enabling the driver to concentrate fully on driving. Similarly this layout ensures maximum control of the car in high performance driving, an uncompromising approach that derives directly from Ferrari’s F1 experience.

Working closely with the Ferrari Styling Centre, the engineers have thus reinterpreted the positioning of the major commands to provide a truly driver-oriented cockpit. All steering-column mounted stalks have been eliminated, with the indicators, full beam, flash and windscreen wiper functions now being activated by buttons on the steering wheel boss. The button to select the shock absorber setting is now positioned next to the ‘Engine start’ button where it falls readily to hand. Behind the wheel are a number of secondary functions, such as the stereo, while the gearbox paddles are now longer making shifts even easier from any steering angle.

The right-hand satellite pod on the dash incorporates controls for the infotainment, the Bluetooth connection, sat-nav, digital speedo and rear parking camera. Clustered on the left-hand satellite pod instead are the optional cruise control, buttons for choosing the video setting of the left-hand dash TFT screen and the on-board computer interface. The latter controls the trip computer, the Vehicle Dynamic Assistance and the display of the car’s set-up.

The Vehicle Dynamic Assistance monitors the operating parameters of the most important areas of the car – engine/gearbox, tyres and brakes. The VDA is enabled in the following manettino settings – Race, CT off and CST off – and provides visual confirmation of the status of each component based on an algorithm from parameters reading lateral and longitudinal acceleration, revs and speed. This enables the driver to assess the ideal operating conditions for the car. There are three status settings: WARM-UP (operating temperature too low), GO (ideal operating conditions) and OVER (one or more components are no longer at their optimum level and need cooling).

Along with the photos now on-line, the Ferrari site also includes an exclusive video interview with Paolo Pininfarina, Chairman of Pininfarina S.p.A., who provides in depth insight into the 458 Italia’s design philosophy and exterior styling. The next release on www.ferrari.com will include an analysis of the car’s performance characteristics with an interview with seven-times F1 World Champion Michael Schumacher.



[Source : FERRARI]
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TROLLHÄTTAN, Sweden : August 27, 2009 - Making its public debut at the 2009 IAA in Frankfurt, the all new Saab 9-5 sedan signals the start of a new era for the Saab brand. Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, it combines stand-out looks with advanced technologies and will bring a fresh alternative choice to the premium sedan segment when sales start later in model year 2010.


The clean, sculpted shape embraces the purity of Scandinavian design and its dramatic wraparound window graphic echoes Saab's aviation heritage. With frontal styling inspired by the award-winning Saab Aero X Concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new Saab 9-5 heralds the introduction of a bold, more expressive design language.

The array of high-tech features on offer includes: an aircraft-like head-up information display (Pilot HUD); adaptive lighting (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; tri-zone air conditioning; dynamic parking assistance and Saab XWD with a rear eLSD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.

The all-turbo powertrain line-up starts at 1.6 liters and carries forward Saab's rightsizing engine strategy, which focuses on responsible performance through the development of highly efficient and relatively small four cylinder turbo engines. There is a choice of three fuels - gasoline, diesel and E85 bioethanol - and with diesel power, the new Saab 9-5 offers CO₂ emissions as low as 139 g/km.

"This car is the start of a new era for our brand," says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's Managing Director. "We have created an advanced and very distinctive product by leveraging the power of our roots in key areas, such as progressive Scandinavian design, sporty driving and responsible performance. The new Saab 9-5 delivers in all these respects, as will every future product from Saab."


Scandinavian Design

Forward-looking design that doesn't ignore where it's coming from - that sums up the visual appeal of the all-new Saab 9-5 sedan. "We are giving a fresh, very modern expression to some of our classic brand design cues," says Simon Padian, Saab Brand Design Chief. "We have taken visual themes in our recent concept cars, such as the Aero X, which are inspired by Scandinavian design and our brand's aircraft heritage."

The face of the new 9-5 is defined by a deep grille flanked with curving, ice-block headlamp units. The entire glasshouse is presented as a 'wraparound' mono graphic, the disguised windshield and side pillars giving the cabin Saab's signature cockpit look. Squint slightly, and the proportions of the windshield and roof become reminiscent of the classic 900 model.

Viewed from any angle, the all new Saab 9-5 cuts a strong and powerful stance. The 'organic sculpture' of the low-slung body blends clean, uncluttered lines with natural, curvaceous shapes. Brand design cues are evident in the 'hockey stick' belt-line, the strong rear C- pillars and the fuselage-smooth surfacing of the bodywork. The large Saab logo embossed in the center of the grille characterizes the more assertive, self-confident design language.

The car's dynamic character is emphasized by a falling roof-line that culminates in sweeping rear pillars which buttress a slightly recessed rear screen. Latent energy is conveyed by fenders that are subtly pulled out to melt into the wheels. Below that smooth, flat rear deck, a full-width, ice-block rear light bar wraps into signature lighting.

The new Saab 9-5's overall proportions stretch the traditional three-box sedan silhouette, while avoiding the fastback cliché of a four-door coupé look.

Driver-focused cabin


Inside the spacious cabin, simple forms define its architecture and echo the design purity of the exterior. Compared to its predecessor, legroom and shoulder width are increased both front and rear. The choice of materials, the fit and finish and the tactile quality of the controls all reflect the new Saab 9-5's premium appeal.


The driver-focused cockpit is traditional Saab, while its execution is all new. The deep center console sweeps up at a shallow angle around the driver into the main instrument display, which is topped by a neat ventilation zone. Deeply recessed main dials include a rolling 'altimeter' speed read-out, a reference to Saab's aviation heritage from the Aero X concept. Driver displays, including the optional head-up display (Pilot HUD) in the windshield, are predominantly illuminated in signature Saab green and have a crisp, floating appearance The car's ignition, now a start/stop button, remains between the front seats, next to the gear shift.

Infotainment choices include a top-of-the-line harman/kardon surround sound audio system and an 8-inch touchscreen navigation system with hard disk storage for map data and 10GB of jukebox-style music files. A large center console provides stowage and connections for several portable devices through USB and Aux ports alongside a 12V power outlet.

Rear passengers can access their own audio or watch a DVD. The rear seat entertainment unit in the back of the center console accommodates audio controls and fold-our viewing screens are installed in the front seat-backs. Wired and wireless headphones are provided for listening and viewing. The rear seat entertainment unit also includes twin air vents and an independent temperature control for the rear cabin, in addition to the dual zone air conditioning up front.

On the road

An array of chassis technologies is focused on delivering a sporty, rewarding driving experience that belies the Saab 9-5's size. Saab XWD, the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system already available on the Saab 9-3, is offered with the 2.0-liter gasoline, BioPower and 2.8V6 turbo engines.. Available throughout the range is adaptive chassis control with driver settings selection through Saab DriveSense, Bi-Xenon Smart Beam adaptive lighting and intelligent cruise control. . Two different suspension layouts are factory-fitted according to engine power and both are available with a sport chassis setting.

Saab has some 30 years' experience in turbocharging engines and the all-turbo powertrain line-up in the new Saab 9-5 further develops its rightsizing engine strategy. At launch, the four cylinder choice comprises a 160 hp, 2.0-liter turbo diesel with CO₂ emissions of just 139 gm/km and a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo developing 220 hp. A top-of-the-line 2.8V6 turbo, generating 300 hp and 400 Nm of torque, is offered exclusively with Saab XWD.

Shortly after launch, a small, 1.6-liter gasoline turbo with180 hp will be introduced, together with a 2.0-liter BioPower E85-capable engine. All transmissions will be six-speed.

New era

Defined and equipped by Saab as its top-of-the-line contender in the premium sedan segment, the new 9-5 is the most technically advanced car ever produced by the company. It will be built at Saab's home plant in Trollhättan, where it has been engineered and chiefly developed.

Available in Linear, Vector or Aero specification, the all new Saab 9-5 heralds the start of a new era for Saab. Scandinavian simplicity was never this advanced!



[Source : GM-SAAB]
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NORFOLK, UK : August 27, 2009 - The Lotus Exige Cup has developed a cult following and a dedicated fan base since the first Lotus Exige Cup 240 was unveiled in 2006. Over the last 4 model years several hundred Exige Cup Cars have been sold, either specifically for race and track use or for a pure road going driving experience. The latest Exige Cup 260, with 260 PS, takes the 38 kg weight savings introduced in the last years model, combines them with the extensive body and aerodynamic improvements and revisions introduced on the 2010 Exige in March 2009 and tops them off with new components and technologies to produce the most focused and pure Exige yet.


Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering for Lotus said, “The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is the epitome of the Lotus brand philosophy of performance through lightweight. Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus, once said “Adding power makes you faster on the straights; subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere” and the Exige Cup 260 totally proves this, being one of the most exhilarating, focussed and pure sportscars on the road today.”

The 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 is fully homologated for road use in Europe and key markets in Asia and North America - a must have for many race competition programmes where a road legal car has to be entered. The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is also eligible to compete in the Lotus Cup Europe race series, organized and run by LoTRDC.

The 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 takes the design and aerodynamic changes first introduced on the Exige S earlier this year to enhance the look and improve aerodynamic performance.

The lightweight, unpainted carbon chord composite rear wing is based on the design from the Exige GT3 road car concept shown at the Geneva Motorshow in 2007. Compared to the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 tailgate-mounted wing, it is 181 mm wider and mounted 46 mm higher and 61 mm further back. It is attached to the rear bodyshell clam via rear end plates which not only increases the stiffness of the whole structure but also ensures that as much of the airflow as possible passes over the rear wing. This careful airflow management increases stability, reduces drag and, most importantly, maintains the impressive downforce figures of 42 kg at 160 km/h.
The restyled front end includes a larger, more angular air intake to help funnel more air through the radiator, to improve the efficiency of the engine. Ahead of the front wheels on either side of the main aperture, two larger air intakes increase the airflow to the twin oil coolers. Horizontal vanes, made from lightweight carbon fibre bisect these oil cooler air-intakes to stabilise the airflow to further increase the cooling efficiency.

Mounted below the three air intakes is a new aerodynamic splitter for the 2010 Model Year Exige. Made from lightweight carbon chord composite, the splitter is extended to wrap around the whole of the front end and chiseled side lips are raised to deflect air around the tyres to reduce drag.

Rear chassis stiffness increases by 30%

The Exige Cup 260 now has an evolution of the rear diffuser and structural shear panel based on the version developed for the Exige GT3 race car, which increases the lateral stiffness of the rear subframe by 30% further enhancing its outstanding handling.

The rear diffuser and structural shear panel links the subframe to the main chassis to give greatly increased lateral stiffness to the rear subframe suspension pickup points, resulting in better tyre contact patch control.

This stiffness is also more applicable to those drivers who race or take part in track days using slick tyres that can also be fitted to the Exige Cup 260.
Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers are now fitted as standard, adding even more personalisation of the driving characteristics so the driver can tune the Exige Cup 260 to their driving style and road or track conditions.

A restyled front end and new larger, rear wing that not only reduces drag, but also gives a more muscular stance enhancing the lightweight shrink-wrapped look of the whole car.

Like the 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige S, the 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 exploits the Lotus philosophy of using weight reduction to increase performance and reduce emissions. Fuel economy is impressive with an Official European Combined Cycle figure of 8.5 litres / 100 km (reduced from 9.1 litres / 100 km (combined) for the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260), a frugal 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle and just 199 g/km of CO2 (reduced from 216 g/km of CO2 for the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260). Continuous engineering improvements over the last year including careful whole vehicle optimisation has enabled this sportscar to be even better for fuel economy and emissions.

Luke Bennett, Operations Director for Lotus Cars said, “The best thing about the Lotus Exige Cup 260 is its performance, on the track it’s sensationally quick in a straight line and attacks corners with razor-sharp precision. With the lightness and agility you’d expect from a Lotus and the almost telepathic feedback to the driver, this car produces an outrageously fun drive.”

The Exige Cup 260 follows this lightweight philosophy closely. Taking the already lightweight Lotus Exige S, the weight saving programme has looked at all areas of
the car where components can be replaced with a lighter version (without pushing the costs beyond the reach of the serious track day driver or clubman racer) or where components can be removed completely without detracting from the purity of the driving experience:
Carbon fibre (resulting in a weight saving of 12kg):-

• Roof Panel
  
• FIA and HANS compliant driver and passenger seats*
  
• One piece carbon fibre dash top panel
  
• Rear tailgate
  
• Centre tunnel
  
• Front access panels
  
• Front splitter (carbon chord)
  
• Side air intake ducts
  
• Rear spoiler (carbon chord)

(* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option).

Lightweight components (resulting in a further weight saving of 22kg):-

1. Lightweight 'motorsport' battery
   
2. Ultra-light five spoke forged alloy wheels
   
3. Revised rear engine subframe with lightweight coating
   
4. Lightweight composite bulkhead panel replaces rear window
   
5. Alloy supercharger U-bend pipes

LRemoving some other non essential components and equipment such as the interior and boot carpets, front mudflaps, battery cover, interior mirror, sunvisors, rear tailgate gas strut, results in a further weight saving of 4kg.

However, as optional extras should a customer wish, air conditioning and an interior noise reduction pack are available, together with the complete range of Lotus metallic, lifestyle and premium paint colours

The MY2010 Exige Cup 260 weighs in at just 890 kg, giving an impressive power to weight ratio of 288 hp / tonne (291 PS / tonne). But, of course, power to weight alone does not make a highly competitive race or track car, so in addition, the Exige Cup 260 has a formidable list of standard performance focused equipment, as follows:-

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control – additions recommended for track driving
Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control was originally developed for the Lotus Exige GT3 racing programme The launch control allows the driver to determine the number of revs they wish to use during a standing start. Having programmed that limit, the driver then holds their foot down fully on the throttle pedal and sidesteps the clutch pedal for a very quick departure from the line. The clutch damper cushions the severity of the clutch to transmission engagement to minimise the stresses to the drivetrain. The launch control also keeps wheel-spin at bay until 10 km/h (6 mph), after which the traction control assumes its duties.

As with launch control, the amount of traction control required can be dialled in from the driver’s seat and altered on the move to suit the characteristics of particular corners. The amount of traction control can be varied in over 30 increments from an optimum 7 percent tyre slip to completely inactive. The message display in the new instrument pack displays what degree of traction control is being currently utilised.

Wheels and Tyres
All new Lotus Sport lightweight forged alloy wheels, thought to be the lightest original equipment wheels in the world, weigh just 5.65 kg (front) and 7.75 kg (rear). These ultra lightweight wheels reduce the unsprung mass therefore further improving the handling and contribute a weight saving of approximately 800 g over the already super light forged 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 wheels. The wheels are shod with Lotus specific LTS construction and compound Yokohama A048 tyres† to maximise grip and achieve the ride and handling targets set by Lotus engineers.
† For GCC States Yokohama A048 LTS tyres are replaced with Toyo Proxes R888 tyres.

Safety Equipment
Lotus Exige Cup 260 cars have the safety equipment expected of a race car, with FIA and HANS compliant carbon fibre lightweight sports seats*, normal 3-point “Webb Lock” harnesses (four or six point driver and passenger seat belt harnesses are available for track use only).
(* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option).
A high tensile steel roll over hoop is now fitted with a body coloured Lotus Sport A-Frame as standard and the chassis is already pre-drilled to fit a full front roll cage – a simple dealer fit process involving just the removal of the roof panel for access prior to fitting. Completing the additional safety equipment is a FIA compliant electronic ignition kill switch, with cockpit and external activation, and a FIA compliant plumbed electrically activated fire extinguisher system, again with cockpit and external switches.
Like all current Lotus cars, the Exige Cup 260 is built around a very strong extruded and bonded aluminium chassis tub. Attached to the chassis is a sacrificial energy absorbing composite front structure designed to help absorb crash energy in the event of impact.

Suspension
To suit individual driving styles and road conditions, drivers will now be able to tune the Exige suspension with the Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers (which have 60 compression and 22 rebound settings) and ride height adjustment to reduce the ride height from 130 mm to 120 mm. An adjustable front anti-roll bar allows customers to tailor the handling characteristics of the car to their own requirements.
As the Exige Cup 260 cars are equipped for track use, a double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during track racing or hard track day driving.

Brakes
The brake system includes large diameter 308 mm 2-piece cross-drilled and ventilated front discs and 282 mm cross-drilled and ventilated discs at the rear, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (AP Racing two piece radially mounted, 4 piston at the front and Brembo sliding at the rear), and stainless steel braided brake hoses - all linked to the proven Lotus track-tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system that enhances braking performance and minimizes stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver.

Performance, Economy and Emissions
The Exige Cup 260 is one of the quickest road cars around a circuit. Key to this incredible track performance is the aerodynamic package, which produces 42 kg of downforce at 160 km/h (100 mph) increasing grip and stability at higher speeds. With a top speed of circa 245 km/h (152 mph) and a zero to 160 km/h (100 mph) in circa 9.9 seconds, 0 to 100 km/h in circa 4.1 seconds (0 to 60 mph in circa 4 seconds), the MY2010 Exige Cup 260 is the perfect partner for the serious racer. Combined Fuel Consumption is 8.5 l/100km and the CO2 emissions 199 g/km.

Engine
The supercharged and intercooled engine in the Exige Cup 260 has a maximum power output of 260 PS (257 hp) at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of 236 Nm (174 lbft) at 6000 rpm. This significant amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear delivery of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm (8500 rpm transient for 2 seconds). The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine’s oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Charge air (air under pressure from the supercharger) is cooled through an air-to-air intercooler (the air enters via the enhanced roof scoop) before being fed into the engine itself. All charge air ducting has been kept as short as possible with large diameter pipes to minimise restriction and maximise throttle response and efficiency. Four high capacity injectors and an uprated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or continuous high speed driving – only on the track of course!

A lightweight flywheel is fitted (giving even greater flexibility and response to the gear change), a sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) – with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. A torque-sensing limited slip differential is fitted as standard, with a plate type limited slip differential available as an option. An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant.

Electrical supply is provided by a lightweight motorsport battery which saves a massive 5 kg of weight sitting behind the rear axle – again weight saving is not just the removal of mass but ensuring that this mass is removed where it most affects performance and handling.


Roof Scoop
The Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 has a high flow, full-length carbon roof scoop as part of the lightweight carbon roof panel, which not only saves 4 kg but also ensures efficient cooling through the intercooler, which in turn allows the Exige Cup 260 to gain a higher charge density in the cylinders improving efficiency further.

Specification
The standard specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 is road legal within the European Union, and can be registered for road use.
The Exige Cup 260 is available now for sale in Europe. Individual recommended retail prices for some major European markets are listed below:

Recommended retail prices of the standard road specification Lotus Exige Cup 260
UK (MSRP)
Recommended retail price (including VAT) is £45,000, (an additional £950 is charged for on the road costs. These include delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months Road Fund Licence and a full tank of fuel.

Recommended retail prices of the standard road specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 for the following markets (MSRP) (including transport, delivery, local taxes and first service (but excluding registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

• Belgium € 64.825
• 
  
• France € 64.200,
• 
  
• Italy € 64.900,
• 
  
• Switzerland CHF 94.700,

Recommended retail prices for the following markets (MSRP) (including local taxes (excluding transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel) : Germany € 62.950,
Recommended retail prices for Euro Zone Countries (MSRP) (excluding local taxes, transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel) : Euro Zone € 52.899,

Images : 2010 Lotus Exige Cup 260







[Source : LOTUS]
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• Nissan 350Z’s straight line speed stretched to the limit in stunning drag-strip monster, Project Zed
• Created by owner and driver John Bradshaw, Project Zed is a full Pro Class drag car packing almost 1,900bhp
• Amazing dragster will perform at the FIA European Finals at Santa Pod, September 10th to 13th 2009
• In support of the track star, Nissan will have a stand at the show displaying its latest road-going sports cars, the GT-R and 370Z

A very special Nissan Z-Car is ready to rumble at Santa Pod! Built to break multiple European records, the hand built dragster will be the only Japanese engined car competing against more traditional American V8 machinery in Mainstream drag racing this year.



The lovingly prepared Project Zed is powered by a Nissan 350Z 3.5-litre V6 engine producing nearly 1,900bhp. Owner and driver John Bradshaw is thrilled to be taking his mighty machine to the famous Santa Pod Raceway, Northants. John comments: “It’s incredible to finally have the car ready to test now and we are all very excited by its potential. It really is a car that is capable of setting records around the world and just shows what a Nissan engine is capable of producing.”

Project Zed is the first ever Pro Class 350Z to be seen in Europe and has been eagerly awaited by drag fans all over Europe. It’s no surprise to find that predicted acceleration times are breathtaking. Not only is 0-60mph expected to take only 1.2 seconds, but 0-168mph will arrive in just 4.1 seconds.


The team are no strangers to success having set the fastest quarter mile time in the world for a Nissan Skyline (7.68 seconds @ 177mph) with their other car, Project GTST, which is a 1997 Nissan Skyline RWD GTST. Producing over 1,150bhp at the wheels, the car holds the record for the fastest Japanese car in Europe for 2008 and retains that title to date in 2009.

Throughout the rest of the year Project Zed will run in various classes including Super Pro ET, Competitor Eliminator and HKS Series – Pro Class.

Performance figures for Project Zed are expected as follows:

• 0-60 mph – 1.2 second
• 0-168 mph – 4.1 seconds
• 0-215+ mph – 6.6 seconds

[Source : NEWSPRESS] continue reading »

Last week the first sketch of the new Subaru GT race car, Subaru Legacy B4 GT300 released to the web. This past weekend, Subaru fans descended upon the Suzuka Circuit to watch the new Legacy B4 GT300 make it’s race debut, the team quietly worked overnight to fix a problem with the highly anticipated race machine, ultimately race it did not.



The Legacy B4 GT300 suffered a driveline issue and the stewards prevented the team from entering free practise on Saturday. The team worked overnight to fix the problem but come race day, the car was still not prepared to face the challenge of a race debut, not to mention the high expectations of fans and bosses.



At race time, the car was still not fixed and ultimately had to succumb to it’s driveline problems and had to retire, disappointing thousands of fans and mainly team members. However, fans were still delighted to finally see the car in the flesh and comments were made on how low the car was. We now look forward to the next race in Fuji on the 12 & 13th of September 2009.

[Souce : i-dea via 7tune]
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MUNICH : August 26, 2009 - MINI is celebrating a great birthday: Exactly fifty years ago, on 26 August 1959, the classic Mini was presented to the public for the first time, a unique story of success starting out and today giving MINI the perfect opportunity to look ahead without losing sight of the brand’s great tradition.



The MINI Coupé Concept is an expression of MINI design and the great ability of the brand’s designers to fill the elementary values of the brand with new life, using the options of modern drivetrain and suspension technology, and developing fascinating perspectives for the future of the brand on this basis.

Presenting the concept of an uncompromisingly sporting two-seater to be seen for the first time at the Frankfurt Motor Show (17–27 September 2009), MINI is unveiling an unusually attractive vision of how the model family may well develop in future. The source of inspiration is once again the fundamental motive so characteristic of every MINI: driving pleasure. The MINI Coupé Concept therefore represents the ideal of a car destined in every respect to offer a thrilling experience and make every journey a truly unique thrill.

The MINI Coupé Concept brings together a wide range of features for a truly sporting and ambitious style of motoring. Limited to two seats and following a philosophy of consistent lightweight construction, the car clearly meets all the requirements made of a particularly active and dynamic coupé. Compact dimensions, perfect axle load distribution and a low centre of gravity offer ideal conditions for enhancing the agility typical of MINI to a level never seen before.

Through its design alone, the MINI Coupé Concept brings out all the thrill of individual mobility and the focus on pure driving pleasure. Powerful proportions and dynamic design language evoke a sense of desire and strong appeal, the MINI Coupé Concept offering a particularly undiluted expression of the brand through its sporting and unconventional stance on the road.

The MINI Coupé Concept: an invitation to enjoy spontaneous mobility.
With the growing model portfolio, the popularity of the MINI brand has also grown consistently in recent years. The MINI has moved beyond the restraints of urban mobility, opening up additional options and winning over new target groups. And MINI allows you to enjoy spontaneous mobility, sporting and agile handling and unmistakable style on virtually every occasion.


The current models in the range already meet the most varied demands. As individual characters in their own right, the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible all offer a unique rendition of the driving experience so typical of the brand. And now the MINI Coupé Concept brings out driving pleasure in its most concentrated form, extreme lightweight technology making this two-seater particularly agile and unusually efficient. At the same time the low roofline, the precisely defined spoiler edge at the rear and other aerodynamic features enhance the car’s performance to an even higher standard. So that in its design and in the use of high-performance drivetrain technology, the MINI Coupé Concept offers ideal conditions as a compact sports car in the premium segment.

This two-seater is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI – and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit carried over from the MINI John Cooper Works, the MINI Coupé Concept offers truly outstanding performance. Maximum output is 155 kW/211 hp, peak torque 260 Newton-metres/192 lb-ft increasing through the Overboost function for a short while to an even more substantial 280 Newton-metres/206 lb-ft. And now the MINI Coupé Concept offers everything it takes to exceed even the supreme performance of the MINI John Cooper Works with this unique power unit.

At the same time this concept car clearly follows the BMW Group’s EfficientDynamics development strategy. More driving pleasure, lower emissions – the MINI Coupé Concept lives out this philosophy expressed by MINI as MINIMALISM in a particularly attractive manner.

Fifty years of MINI: a vision of tomorrow marking an anniversary of today.
Fifty years after the launch of the classic Mini, the appeal of the brand is greater than ever before, with the model range exuding sheer fascination wherever you go. And now, in the anniversary year of the brand, MINI is bringing together this unique tradition and the successful model range offered today with even greater creativity and technical innovation for a truly promising future.


The MINI Coupé Concept is a further milestone in this ongoing development of the brand. The car takes up elementary strengths of the MINI and, through its modern technology and an innovative body concept, offers new standards and characteristics never seen before. So that the MINI Coupé Concept offers many new highlights in adding yet a further character to the existing model range.

Exterior design: the look typical of MINI but with individual character.
The body design of the MINI Coupé Concept also bridges the gap from the earliest days of the Mini’s history all the way to the more distant future of the brand, emphasising the unique nature of the concept as well as its full membership in the MINI family. At the same time the individual and emotional design language arouses the expectation of a particularly thrilling experience on the road.

Especially at the front end of the car a number of icons typical of the brand, as well as the design style so characteristic of MINI, all come together to create a strong family resemblance. In addition, the individual look of the MINI Coupé Concept comes out also in the side view of the car as well as in the design of the rear end.


This unique new two-seater measures 3,714 millimetres (146.2") in length and 1,683 millimetres (66.3") in width. Height is 1,356 millimetres (53.4"). Through these dimensions and its athletic proportions alone, the MINI Coupé Concept stands out from the beginning as a compact and muscular sports machine.

The typical MINI look in particularly sporting style.

The new concept car carries over the unmistakable front end look from the four-seater MINI. Smoothly balanced contours on the engine lid characterised by wide and sweeping radii, the large headlights, the homogenous shape of the radiator grille and the wide lower air intake give each model that unique look, openness and charm so typical of the brand. Through the greater rake of the windscreen on the MINI Coupé Concept, the car looks even more striking and dynamic, the low and streamlined body proving clearly that the MINI Coupé Concept is a particularly outstanding performer.

The hexagon radiator grille and the large round headlights are unmistakable design features re-interpreting the front view of the classic Mini in particularly modern style. The direction indicators are integrated in the headlights, just above the innovative three-dimensional surrounds for the positioning lights and the foglamps. The entire front air dam has been adjusted to the sporting look of the car, standing out even wider and more striking than before.

The chrome radiator grille on the MINI Coupé Concept is the same as on the MINI Cooper S. The inner section in the grille is however finished with bars in body colour creating a clear sign of distinction at very first sight from the other members of the MINI family. The bonnet stripes also extend into the radiator grille to provide an even more sporting and dynamic touch.

With its very dynamic curvature and the stylised opening, bearing testimony to the power of the engine lurking within, the front lid likewise comes in the same look as on the particularly powerful versions of the MINI.

Individual roofline as a sign of sporting presence.
The side view of the MINI Coupé Concept also brings together features typical of the MINI family and new highlights in design to form a fascinating whole. The front side panels, for example, come straight from the MINI Convertible. The body joint forming the diagonal line characteristic of every MINI along the front lid and the surrounds on the front side indicators bearing out the style of the MINI Cooper S again provide an unmistakable sign of distinction with historic roots – here the classic Mini had a visible welding seam along the body.

The familiarity in design resulting from these features forms an attractive contrast to the far greater rake of the A-pillars leading into the brand-new, sweeping line of the roof.

Large wheels and a high waistline already give the MINI, the MINI Clubman and the MINI Convertible a particularly powerful and sporting look, with the black strip around the lower section of the body underlining this compact appearance and short body overhangs front and rear emphasising the athletic stature of the car and bearing testimony to that typical go-kart feeling at very first sight.

All this now comes out even more convincingly in the MINI Coupé Concept, also through the unique flow of the roofline. The glazed section of the passenger cell referred to as the greenhouse, for example, is much lower and even more dynamic than on the brand’s “regular” models.

Another feature of the MINI Coupé Concept is the strongly inclined windscreen merging gently into the roof. At the rear the roofline initially moving straight back above the heads of the driver and front passenger flows on into the sturdy C-pillar. The entire roof with all its contours thus comes in a bridge shape quite unmistakable and featured for the first time on the MINI, made up of a strong rear cornerstone formed by the C-pillar and the almost filigree structure above the passenger cell.

The C-pillar is a strong visual expression of the particularly solid and torsionally rigid body structure providing not only superior occupant safety, but also the agility typical of MINI in fast manoeuvres. The C-pillar very powerful in design serves at the same time to guide your perspective towards the rear end of the car, while the side view of the MINI Coupè Concept forms a very strong and convincing wedge shape created by the roofline tapering out to the rear and the waistline rising up slightly in typical MINI style.

All this gives the MINI Coupé Concept a forward-moving impression right from the start, the car clearly expressing its power and muscle even at a standstill. Through its design alone, therefore, the MINI Coupé Concept authentically visualises sporting qualities of the highest standard.

Striking contours and smooth flow of air ensured by the roof spoiler and the rear spoiler edge.
The rear-end design of the MINI Coupé Concept consistently follows the need to optimise the flow of air in the interest of both driving dynamics and efficiency. The principle of “form follows function” so essential to MINI, the look and design of various body elements, fully reflects the characteristic features and qualities of the car. Through its design alone, therefore, the MINI Coupé Concept clearly confirms its sporting potential in a particularly credible and convincing manner.

The rear spoiler with its wing profile at the same level as the C-pillar also makes a particularly effective contribution in guiding the air along the rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept. This large air guidance element spans the entire width of the roof, increasing aerodynamic downforce on the rear axle.

Tapering down elegantly, the rear window on this unique two-seater merges into a short and low rear end with staged contours in typical coupé design. Again, this follows the overriding objective to ensure an optimum flow of air without any turbulence harming the car’s aerodynamics – which is also why the air spoiler on the rear panel is appropriately sharp and clear in its profile.

Beneath the air spoiler at the rear the overall look and design of the MINI Coupé Concept follows the typical philosophy of the brand. Horizontal lines running parallel to one another emphasise the wide track of the car, the body growing wider from top to bottom in cascading style highlighting the muscular stance of the car resting on its wheels in that characteristic style.

The rear light clusters in upright arrangement and surrounded by a wide chrome frame are also typical of the brand. The rear air dam on the MINI Coupé Concept, in turn, comes with a diffuser split up into two sections and ensuring a smooth, swirl-free flow of air beneath the car.

Impressively functional: wide-opening tailgate, generous luggage space.
The tailgate on the MINI Coupé Concept is yet another highlight of the car. Deliberately foregoing the rear seat bench, this unique two-seater offers lots of additional space for taking along all kinds of luggage.

Luggage capacity is 250 litres or 8.8 cu ft. To use this space most conveniently, the rear end of the MINI Coupé Concept comes with a large and wide-opening tailgate. Hinged above the roof spoiler, the entire tailgate including the rear window swings up gracefully, offering convenient access to the generous luggage space behind the rear seats of the car. And thanks to the low loading sill, accessing the luggage compartment with even heavy and bulky objects is significantly easier.

The complete design of the rear end with its large tailgate is yet another example of the functional design so typical of MINI. All options offered through the concept of the car are optimised to the highest standard through carefully thought-out solutions and a good overall balance. Indeed, this principle already to be admired on the brand’s existing models, for example through the easy-load function on the MINI Convertible, makes a significant contribution to the overall substance of the car. The result is a wide range of innovative solutions quite unique in the market, emphasising the premium character of the MINI brand.

On the MINI Coupé Concept this philosophy is borne out by yet another distinctive feature providing extra space and practical value: The bulkhead between the passenger and the luggage compartments comes with a lockable opening. The through-loading provided in this way, quite unusual on a two-seater coupe, gives the driver and passenger direct access even while driving to travel items they are taking along in the luggage compartment. So that bags with, say, beverages, a music CD or maps are stowed away safely but always within easy reach.

Interior: sports car ambience with an exclusive range of colours and materials.
The MINI Coupé Concept combines the vision of a compact sports car with thrilling agility, on the one hand, and the individual flair and style of the MINI, on the other. Through its entire concept, the car is perfectly designed to offer concentrated driving pleasure of the highest standard. This is borne out not only through the extroverted exterior in its fascinating, sporting look, but also through the interior conceived from the start for active motoring.

Wide-opening doors give the driver and passenger convenient access to the interior, where they enjoy sports seats with strongly contoured side supports for a secure seating position even in particularly fast bends. A three-spoke leather sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons enables the driver to steer precisely into bends and control the audio or communication functions with maximum ease. All other control units, in turn, are arranged ergonomically on the dashboard, taking their frequency of use into account.

The breakdown of the cockpit, the dashboard and centre console again follows that special interior design so typical of MINI. Horizontal lines and air vents placed far to the outside emphasise the sheer width of the instrument panel and, at the same time, the generous style of the interior, the slender centre console giving the driver and passenger maximum legroom. The structure of the door linings so typical of the brand, finally, has also been re-interpreted, with the elliptic main element now completely closed in.

The MINI Coupé Concept also comes with a large rev counter directly behind the steering wheel, while the speedometer is part of the central instrument in the upper section of the dashboard. This circular instrument well known as the Center Speedo also houses the audio system as well as the optional entertainment and navigation functions.

Two Chronoswiss clocks to the right and left of the rev counter provide a close link to earlier concept cars by MINI, bridging the gap between the analogue age of the classic Mini and the digital age of the MINI. One clock is a purpose-built stopwatch for taking lap times, the second clock shows the time in classic style.

The colours and materials featured inside the MINI Coupé Concept symbolise the classic sportiness of the car. Like the dashboard, the roof lining of this unprecedented two-seater comes in black providing a calm atmosphere just right for concentrating on driving conditions and essential requirements. Black trim bars combined with a carbon interior trim strip, finally, further enhance this purist look.

Lightweight construction and modern suspension technology providing a new feeling of go-kart driving.

The MINI Coupé Concept is definitely a MINI and definitely a sports car. The particular charm of this combination results from both the drivetrain and the suspension technology already featured in the current production models, as well as the special highlights of this two-seater concept car.

Over and above their body design, the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible already set the standard today for agility and driving pleasure in their respective segments. Powerful engines and suspension technology quite superior in the small car segment then ensure a truly unique driving experience. Front-wheel drive, powerful disc brakes on all four wheels, the front axle with McPherson spring struts and a centrally guided rear axle with aluminium longitudinal arms and anti-roll bars set the foundation for uniquely safe and agile handling.

EPS Electronic Power Steering with speed-related power assistance, finally, ensures precise manoeuvring round bends and gives the driver exact feedback at all times on road and driving conditions. At the same time on-demand management of steering assistance serves to maximise the car’s efficiency.

The MINI Coupé Concept offers ideal conditions for raising the go-kart feeling created by the car’s drivetrain and suspension technology to an even higher standard. Its entire construction is based on a lightweight concept reducing weight particularly where it really counts for even greater agility. As an example, this two-seater comes with an aluminium roof not only optimising the overall weight of the car, but also lowering the car’s centre of gravity for a significant reduction of body movement and optimised driving behaviour.

Since lower weight also means greater efficiency, the MINI Coupé Concept again offers the option to combine even greater driving pleasure with fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions reduced to a minimum as an important sign of our times.

Traditional values, modern quality, progressive concept.

Sporting success and agile handling of the highest standard are significant highlights in the history of MINI now going back five decades – and both factors have made a fundamental contribution to the ongoing popularity of this small premium car.

Three overall wins in the Monte Carlo Rally and the concept of driving pleasure expressed so clearly by the car’s go-kart feeling definitely confirm the sporting potential of this small compact both back then and today. The anniversary year is therefore the ideal time to present the MINI Coupé Concept as the vision of an uncompromisingly active sports car.

Another concept car presented even before the re-launch of the MINI brand proves that this philosophy has always fuelled the creativity of the MINI’s designers: The MINI Concept Monte Carlo presented in 1997 was a two-seater with a 160-hp mid-mounted engine. Through its design alone, this concept car already came with a wide range of features destined to be taken up again by the first MINI, short body overhangs front and rear, round headlights and the re-interpretation of the hexagon radiator grille providing an outlook at important styling elements on the production model to follow later. With its extremely powerful body and direct references to motorsport, the MINI Concept Monte Carlo also made a clear pledge to the rally history of the brand.

Now the MINI Coupé Concept, through its unique look, takes up the almost aggressive and extroverted appearance of that former concept car, at the same time providing a new link between the history, the present and the future of the brand. It takes up traditional values of the MINI brand and combines them with the most advanced technologies to offer a fascinating vision of how the MINI model family may continue.

Once again, therefore, MINI is following the needs and wishes of new target groups fully appreciative of the individual style of the brand and associating this character with clearly defined product features. The MINI Coupé Concept addresses the motorist thrilled by that unique combination of driving pleasure, lifestyle, and premium quality so typical of MINI and, at the same time, looking for sporting driving qualities of an even higher standard.



[Source : BMW-MINI]
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STUTTGART : August 26, 2009 - Stronger, wider, faster – the new version of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup offers its many customers the world over even greater value than ever before. The successor to the best-selling racing car of all time built in a production series of more than 1,400 units is based for the first time on the 911 GT3 RS, with the weight of the racing model reduced significantly versus the lightweight road-going version.



This is the first GT3 Cup to feature the 44-millimetre (1.73”) wider body at the rear, providing sufficient space for even larger wheels. Wider wheel arches also at the front clearly show that the front wheels are likewise new.

Engine capacity is up by 0.2 litres over the former model, engine output is 30 bhp more than before. The most important facts and figures: 3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit developing 450 bhp (331 kW), sequential six-speed manual gearbox, weight 1,200 kg (2,646 lb), racing version of the 911 GT3 RS.

The new GT3 Cup is clearly recognisable at very first sight through the special looks and design of the front end. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation of the 911, the front body panels are the same as on the 911 GT3 RS. The front spoiler lip is however 15 millimetres or almost 0.6“ lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle. Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the rear wing extended in width from 1.46 to 1.70 metres (57.5 to 66.9”) and fitted higher up as a feature carried over from the even faster 911 GT3 Cup S in international FIA GT3 racing. The rear air dam with its striking air vent openings as well as the rear lights in LED technology, in turn, come straight from the road model.


The power unit featured in the new 911 GT3 Cup is largely identical to the production engine in the 911 GT3 RS – same output of 450 bhp and same maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm. Capacity of the Cup engine, however, is up from 3.6 litres on the former model to 3.8 litres on the new car, helping to increase engine power by 30 bhp.

A racing exhaust system with a fully controlled catalytic converter helps to reduce harmful emissions to a minimum. As an exclusive feature in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup held on the occasion of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship races, the new 911 GT3 Cup comes with a modified, special exhaust system offering an even more dynamic and muscular sound. Another feature exclusive to the Supercup version is PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes also available on Porsche’s road models. Compared with the composite cast brake discs featured on the Carrera Cup cars, this reduces the weight of the car by approximately 20 kg or 44 lb.

The wheel arches wider at the front and the flared wheel arches at the rear provide ample space for even wider wheels. Hence, the front axle comes with three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) and running on 24/64-18 Michelin racing tyres. The three-piece light-alloy rims on the rear axle are up by one inch in width, now measuring 12 J x 18 and running on 27/68-18 tyres.

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms and the sword-shaped anti-roll bars front and rear are now adjustable to seven different positions on both sides, allowing an even more precise set-up of the car in accordance with the respective race track.

The cockpit of the new 911 GT3 Cup caters even more than before for the specific needs of the driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with an even better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel housing a total of six switches. And in addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height as on the regular production car.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup available exclusively in Carrara White will be delivered to customers as of the end of October. In the upcoming season it will be raced in no less than seven cup trophies – not only in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup on the occasion of Formula 1 races, but also in the Porsche Carrera Cups in Germany, Asia, Japan, and Italy, as well as the GT3 Cup Challenges in the USA and the Middle East.

The Euro base-price is Euro 149,850.- without value-added tax.



[Source : PORSCHE]
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• World Premiere of Bestseller at the IAA : Volkswagen adds dynamic three-door to the Polo model range
  
• New Polo base version can be bought in Germany starting at 12,150 Euros1
  
• Three-door will also be available as BlueMotion model with 3.3 litre fuel economy

WOLFSBURG : August 26, 2009 - Bestseller with new entry-level version: As a world premiere, Volkswagen is presenting the youngest offspring of the Polo family at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt (IAA, September 17 to 27): an agile three-door. Its longer doors compared to the five-door version, new styling of the row of side windows and the dynamic lines of the sporty C-pillars give the car a nearly coupe-like appearance in its side profile.



At its market launch this Fall, the extremely elegant and safe three-door will be available in six engine versions (from 44 kW / 60 PS to 77 kW / 105 PS) and three equipment variants (Trendline, Comfortline, Highline). The model’s entry-level version will now be the three-door Polo 1.2 Trendline with ESP at a price of 12,150 Euros1. The new Polo BlueMotion will also be available as a three-door and five-door model; the production version is also debuting in Frankfurt. The world’s most fuel-efficient car in its class (55 kW / 75 PS) has a fuel consumption of 3.3 litres diesel per 100 kilometres (equivalent to 87 g/km CO2). The Polo range is gaining tremendous momentum here. Our declared goal: successes in the Polo class on the same magnitude as those of the Golf.

Unmistakable proportions in styling

The three-door Polo marks the entry of another model into the Volkswagen range that follows a new "design DNA" 1:1. This "DNA" was developed by Group Design Chief Walter de Silva. The brand’s characteristic new face is a key aspect of this styling that exhibits a strong horizontal orientation of basic surfaces and a clarity of forms that de Silva refers to as "La Semplicità". The overall design is characterized by sharp, precise lines.

In this process, high priority is given to the car’s proportions. Walter de Silva: "A ‘bella automobile’ has perfect proportions. The Polo confirms this to be true." Striking in this context are the short body overhangs, the car’s broad width in proportion to its height, its prominent wheel housings and powerful shoulder sections. Style defining is the side profile of the three-door Polo. As on every Volkswagen designed under the leadership of de Silva, there are just two key lines here: the upper character line and an additional, supportive lower line. Resting atop the dominant character line between the upper borders of the headlights and taillights is the roof. The strong shoulder section is also developed from the character line. Even more: The upper and lower lines generate an exciting interplay of light and shadow, and despite the design’s simplicity they also create a very muscular modulation of surfaces.

Overall, the three-door Polo has an appearance that is lower to the ground and stretched. The reason: The practically invisible B-pillar and more slender C-pillar gives the row of windows a longer visual appearance. This effect is reinforced by the similarly longer upward curve of the row of side windows from the B-pillar back. This results in an even more dynamic overall feeling.

The body dimensions of the three and five-door versions are identical with a length of 3,970 millimetres, width of 1,682 millimetres and height of 1,485 millimetres. The same applies to the interior space and cargo capacities (280 to 952 litres).

Generous standard features

Even the base version – the Polo Trendline – is being launched with an extensive package of safety and convenience features. A standard feature in all large EU countries is the electronic stabilization program ESP. Other standard features include daytime running lights, power-assist steering, electric windows in front, central locking, cargo area lighting, warning buzzer for light left on, height adjustment on driver’s seat, vanity mirrors and tinted windows.

Identifying features of the mid-line equipment version, the Comfortline (starting at 14,150 Euros1 and 51 kW / 70 PS), are car-coloured door mirrors and door handles, H7 dual headlights, chrome trim inserts in the radiator grille and 15-inch wheels. On the convenience side, it is supplemented by standard features such as an air conditioning system, electrically heated and adjustable door mirror, Easy-Entry System (three-door), height-adjustable front passenger’s seat, storage drawers under the front seats, various accents in aluminium look, split folding rear bench seat/backrest, dual cargo floor, storage pockets on the backs of the front backrests and RF remote central locking.

The exclusive Polo Highline (starting at 15,900 Euros1 and 63 kW / 85 PS) is characterized by wide-ranging individualization. On the exterior, it is distinguished by additional chrome trim on the lower air intake, 15-inch alloy wheels and front fog lamps from the Comfortline equipment version. Inside, the Polo Highline is upgraded by details such as a three-spoke leather steering wheel, front centre armrest, multi-function display and tyre pressure indicator, height-adjustable sport seats and leather-trimmed handbrake grip and gear knob.

Advanced engines are sustainable engines

At this time, six engines will be offered on the three-door and five-door Polo: three petrol and three diesel. The petrol engines are available at the power levels 44 kW / 60 PS, 51 KW / 70 PS and 63 kW / 85 PS. As an option, Volkswagen is also offering the Polo with an automatic 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox (DSG) for the first time. The 85-PS petrol engine may be paired with DSG as an option. Already in the starting blocks for the Polo is a fourth petrol engine, a new TSI, which is a fuel-efficient yet sporty turbo direct-injection engine with 77 kW / 105 PS. It too will be offered in a DSG version.

On the diesel side, Volkswagen is exclusively offering new common rail TDI engines with particulate filters on the Polo three-door and five-door cars. They output 55 kW / 75 PS, 66 kW / 90 PS and 77 kW / 105 PS. The 90-PS version may be ordered with DSG. The fourth TDI to be offered is the new 1.2-liter TDI of the Polo BlueMotion that will be introduced at the beginning of 2010 (advance sales already begin in 2009).



[Source : VOLKSWAGEN]
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SEOUL, Korea : August 25, 2009 - Hyundai Motor Company’s all-new Tucson ix* was officially unveiled today. The compact sports utility vehicle has sweeping coupe-like lines, a premium vehicle feel and comes with features unavailable on its predecessor. With the start of Tucson ix sales in the Korean market today, Hyundai aims to set the trend for the segment and regain sales leadership in the small SUV market.



Its revolutionary features begin with the exterior styling which is based on the bold ix-onic concept shown at Geneva Motor Show in March. The power output, fuel-efficiency, comfort and safety features have been all upgraded. Known by the project name LM, it took 36 months and 280 billion won (approx. US$225 million) to develop.

It comes with a 2-litre engine: either the all-new diesel R or gasoline Theta-II and is fitted with Hyundai’s all-new six-speed automatic transmission. The diesel engine meets the Euro-5 emissions standards and achieves 15.4 kilometers per liter fuel economy with maximum power output of 184 horsepower. The gasoline engine has a fuel economy of 11.7 kilometers per liter with a 166 horsepower. The diesel engine is offered in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel drive configurations, while gasoline engine is available only in front-wheel-drive.

Named after a city in the U.S. state of Arizona, Tucson has been one of the most popular Hyundai models with more than 1 million units sold worldwide since its launch in 2004.

Some of the notable features of Tucson are as follows:

• Vehicle Dynamic Control: improves the safety of a vehicles stability by detecting and minimizing skids
  
• Downhill Brake Control and Hill-Start Assist Control: DBC allows the vehicle to maintain a safe speed on steep declines without having to use the brake while the hill-start assist helps a driver move up a steep or slippery hill without rolling backwards.
  
• Emergency Stop Signal: In the event of a panic stop, this feature automatically triggers the emergency hazard lights whose flashing alerts the driver behind thus reducing the risk of rear-end crashes.
  
• Panoramic Sunroof
  
• Safety Rear-View Mirror: Shifting into reverse gear automatically turns on the rear-view camera which provides a wide-angle view of the rear on a 3.5-inch color LCD built into the rear-view mirror thus reducing the risk of accidents.

Korean retail prices of the diesel edition (2WD) fitted with automatic transmission will begin at 21 million won with the top-of-the-line model costing 27 million won inclusive of taxes. Gasoline versions will start at about 19 million won and will top out at 24 million won.

The Korean domestic market Tucson ix is built in the Ulsan plant while the European edition (to be badged as the ix35) will be built in Europe with production and sales commencing in Europe early next year. Full details about European powertrains, trim levels and option packages will be announced September 3rd on the eve of the 2009 IAA in Frankfurt. North American specifications will be announced at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this year.

Hyundai is aiming for sales of 16,000 units of the new Tucson ix this year in the Korean market and 40,000 units annually starting next year. From the year 2011, Hyundai predicts its sales to reach 300,000 units globally, with 260,000 units sold in the overseas market.

* Korean domestic naming only




[Source : HYUNDAI - TagStory for embed video]
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STUTTGART : August 25, 2009 – smart is welcoming the autumn with a particularly stylish special model that is characterised by high quality equipment, fine materials and an unusual appearance. The new smart fortwo edition highstyle features exclusive paintwork in trendy chocolate brown metallic and elegant 12‑spoke 15" alloy wheels. The exclusive interior of the special model boasts a harmonious mix of fabric and leather. The smart fortwo edition highstyle is available with a 52 kW/71 hp or a 62 kW/84 hp petrol engine. The 52 kW variant is fitted with a comfortable automatic start/stop system as standard which shuts down the engine when the vehicle is stationary, noticeably reducing fuel consumption. Style, savoir vivre and zest for life go hand in hand with environmentally friendly technology.


The new smart fortwo edition highstyle continues the series of unusual and successful special models from the trendsetter for urban mobility. The unconventional car manufacturer questions the status quo and takes fresh and unusual approaches. The new special model from the environmentally friendly lifestyle brand combines cutting edge environmental technology and functionality with a discerning sense of style. In the smart fortwo edition highstyle joie de vivre and classy elegance are combined in perfect harmony.

Even at first glance the new special model demonstrates its high standards of style and elegance with its classy chocolate brown metallic finish. 15 inch alloy wheels in an elegant 12-spoke design and edition highstyle logos in aluminium look are further highlights that round off the exterior appearance to perfection.

The classy design of the interior also demonstrates a young spirit, an open, new way of thinking and a confident style. Exclusive, gleaming metallic leather on the seats and in the doors contrasts with the light and dark fabric ensemble reserved for this special edition. Decorative brown seams are a subtle reference to the exterior. The kneepad and instrument panel have a leather look. The 3-spoke sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift is covered with leather, as is the gear knob. Trim parts that shimmer in matt silver round off the high quality yet dynamic impression
of the interior.

The new smart fortwo edition highstyle is based on the coupé passion. Among other features this equipment line comes with softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control, and a panoramic roof with sunblind. The standard equipment of the "edition highstyle" also includes dashboard instruments and the radio 9. Electric power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment and the smart sound system with a smart MP3 interface are optionally available.

The new special model also demonstrates the smart fortwo style when it comes to environmental friendliness. Not only does it fulfil the strict exhaust gas standard EU 5, the 52 kW variant is moreover fitted with micro hybrid drive (mhd) technology as standard.

This clever and comfortable automatic start/stop system shuts down the engine as soon as the driver brakes and the vehicle's speed falls below 8 km/h – for example when approaching traffic lights. The engine starts again in the fraction of a second when the driver releases the brake pedal. The system is fully automatic – the driver does not need to do anything. In urban traffic with frequent stop and go situations, fuel savings of almost 20 percent are possible with mhd.

The special smart fortwo model edition highstyle is available with a 52 kW/71 hp engine fitted with mhd or with a 62 kW/84 hp engine and costs €15,695 and €16,195 respectively (German list price including VAT).










[Source : DAIMLER]
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Stuttgart : August 25, 2009 - Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is enlarging the range of customisation options for the new Panamera with new wheels in particularly sporting design: The new 20-inch forged wheels come in the same design as the wheels on the new 911 Turbo, standing out through five striking, highly polished double spokes, titanium-coloured, painted spoke flanks and the rim centre star to give these light-alloy wheels a unique twin-tone look.



The new 20-inch 911 Turbo II wheels are available for all models in the Panamera range. Rim dimensions at the front are 9.5 J x 20, with 255/40 ZR 20 tyres. The rear wheels measure 11 J x 20 and run on 295/35 ZR 20 tyres. The complete set of wheels retails in Germany at Euro 2,600.- on the Panamera S and Panamera 4S, and at Euro 1,400.- for the Panamera Turbo – in each case excluding 19 per cent VAT.

[Source : PORSCHE]
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LEONBERG, Germany : August 25, 2009 - Right at the market introduction of the Porsche Panamera, GEMBALLA Automobiltechnik GmbH & Co. KG for the first time publishes images of the GEMBALLA MISTRALE and presents fascinating features. The design of the GEMBALLA luxury limousine is even more dynamic, more striking and significantly more exclusive than its serial counterpart. For perfect surface quality and custom-fit processing of the newly designed aerodynamics components, GEMBALLA mainly uses the ultra-light and high-strength material carbon.



Part of the dynamic front look is a far more sporty front skirt. Larger air inlets guarantee the optimal supply with fresh air for future performance increases. An integrated carbon lip and an elegantly formed bonnet with slotted ventilation ducts complete the lifting-force reducing front. A striking eye-catcher of the GEMBALLA MISTRALE and visual allusion to the classic 911-design are the extended front and rear fenders. A newly designed rear apron with integrated diffuser provides enough space for four end pipes of the sport exhaust system and seamlessly fits into the overall package.


But not only design and aerodynamics are refined by GEMALLA. Also the performance of the four-door automobile is significantly improved. A newly programmed air suspension module with extended setting range lowers the centre of gravity up to 40 millimetres. For especially ambitious customers, GEMBALLA offers a height-adjustable coilover suspension. In connection with the ultra-light 22-inch forged rims both versions render best vehicle control and also optimal road contact. For excellent deceleration values and perfect pedal control, GEMBALLA adds a high-performance brake system. 6-piston brake callipers with 420 millimetre brake discs at the front axle and 4-piston brake callipers with 380 millimetre brake discs at the back axle replace the serial components.


GEMBALLA – the specialist for high-end Porsche refinement and innovative engineer design plans further modifications, such as powerful performance enhancements up to 750 hp for different serial engines. And also in the interior, owner Uwe Gemballa leaves his distinctive mark with an innovative design and unsurpassable quality as usual.

[Source : GEMBALLA]
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• Third body-style joins Insignia ecoFLEX line-up
  
• Combined mpg reduced by nearly 13 per cent
  
• Regular Insignia’s performance and refinement retained

LUTON : August 24, 2009 – Following the success of the Insignia ecoFLEX hatch and saloon, the Insignia Sports Tourer now takes the green-hued limelight with an ecoFLEX version providing company and private buyers with significant reductions in running costs, without sacrificing performance or practicality.


With a combined C02 figure of just 139g/km, the ecoFLEX Sports Tourer drops four BIK tax bands to 18 per cent for company car drivers, compared with the regular CDTi Sports Tourer. And with a 12.3 per cent improvement in combined fuel consumption (53.7mpg vs 47.1 for the regular model) drivers can enjoy a filling station-free range of up to 826 miles.

But as with all Insignia ecoFLEX models, parsimony has not affected its performance and driveability. Retaining the 160hp, 2.0-litre CDTi diesel seen elsewhere in the range, the ecoFLEX Sports Tourer still achieves a top speed of 134mph and will sprint from 0-60mph in just 9.3 seconds. A healthy slug of torque (up to 380Nm with overboost, to be precise) also allows it to pull slightly higher gearing, thanks to a revised final drive ratio.

A raft of aerodynamic changes is responsible for the ecoFLEX Sports Tourer’s enhanced efficiency. Modified front air inlets feature, as do two under-body spoilers which direct air over the rear axle, reducing drag and lift. The upper front grille has also been closed, while the ride height has been reduced by 3mm at the front and 14mm at the rear. Specially developed low-resistance tyres and aero fins fitted to the rear screen complete the package.

None of this has dented the ecoFLEX Sports Tourer’s practicality, of course. A capacious, 540-litre luggage area (rear seats up) matches the best in class, and is complemented by 40:60 split rear seats incorporating a ski-hatch, which fold to liberate a maximum capacity of 1530-litres.

ecoFLEX Sports Tourer prices start at £21,515 for the generously equipped Exclusiv model, and extend through S and SE trims to the Elite Nav at £27,750.


Performance / environmental information

Engine

[Source : GM-VAUXHALL]
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• First news of new Astra’s engine line-up ahead of Frankfurt debut
  
• Downsized petrol engines and ultra-efficient diesels with power range from 85-180hp
  
• ecoFLEX model will join range at later stage with 109g/km combined emissions*

LUTON : August 24, 2009 – Vauxhall’s all new Astra will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 15 with a highly competitive line-up of petrol and diesel engines boasting reductions in CO₂ over almost all equivalent models in the current Astra range.


The new model, which will be produced at the UK’s Ellesmere Port plant for all markets across Europe, will have an eight-engine range that promises to reduce combined CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption by around 10 per cent overall.


Highlighting Vauxhall’s continued strategy of reducing C02 emissions through engine capacity downsizing, an all-new 1.4-litre Turbo engine will join the range from launch, producing 140hp and 200Nm of torque between 1,850 and 4,900rpm. This engine replaces the naturally aspirated 1.8-litre from the current range, yet features lower emissions, equal power and 15 per cent more torque.

Completing the petrol line-up for the new Astra is a normally aspirated 1.4-litre unit emitting just 129g/km of C02, and two 1.6-litre engines – one turbocharged, producing 180hp and the other an un-blown unit with 115hp.

The Astra’s diesel range comprises 1.3-, 1.7- and 2.0-litre units, all of which feature common rail fuel injection and produce combined C02 emissions of no more than 129g/km* (with manual transmission). Despite this, their power will range from 95hp to 160hp, allowing generous performance with optimum frugality.

As with the Insignia, all Astra powerplants meet stringent Euro 5 emissions standards, and at a later stage an ecoFLEX model will be added to the range, achieving 109g/km of C02 on the combined cycle*.


All Astras will be equipped with six-speed gearboxes, with the exception of normally aspirated 1.4- and 1.6-litre models and the 1.3-litre CDTi which employ a five-speed manual gearbox. A new, compact automatic transmission will be available for all petrol models.

Supporting the new Astra at Frankfurt will be the efficient, but powerful Insignia ecoFLEX and Vauxhall/Opel’s groundbreaking Ampera.

*Final figures subject to confirmation.

[Source : GM-VAUXHALL]
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MODENA : August 24, 2009 - The Maserati GranCabrio, the first four-seater convertible in the Trident carmaker's history, will make its world wide debut on September 15 at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The introduction of the GranCabrio – the Trident's third prong – completes Maserati's product line-up that now consists of three different families of models: Quattroporte, GranTurismo, GranCabrio.



The GranCabrio represents the very essence of Maserati in terms of open-top cars. It's a Maserati in the purest sense of the word: from the unmistakable style by Pininfarina to the spacious interior, from the craftsmanship of each detail to the driving pleasure and performance. The Maserati GranCabrio enriches all five senses in a shared open-air experience, without sacrificing comfort and performance. A dream car designed and built for men and women who love to live life in an understated though sophisticated manner. Like all the made in Maserati open-top convertibles: special cars aimed at refined connoisseurs.


In fact the GranCabrio is continuing the Maserati tradition in open-top cars, joining models that have played such an important part in the Modena carmaker's history such as the 1950 A6G Frua Spyder, 1960 3500GT Vignale Spyder, 1964 Mistral Spyder, 1968 Ghibli Spyder and 2001 Spyder designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the car that marked Maserati's return to the United States. In the footsteps of tradition, the GranCabrio opens a new chapter, because never before have four-seater top-down models ever been produced at the Viale Ciro Menotti Maserati factory. Four proper seats, so that the rear passengers are not merely supporting actors, but co-stars of the journey.


The GranCabrio is powered by a 4.7 litre V8, 323 kW engine and is the convertible with the longest wheelbase on the market. The GranCabrio's roof is strictly canvas-made, emphasizing the link with the Maserati tradition.

The Maserati GranCabrio will be marketed starting next winter, and experienced by customers the world over from the following spring.

[Source : MASERATI]
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PARIS : August 24, 2009 - Citroën is revealing the CITROËN DS3! - A few months ahead of its showroom debut, the DS3 is inaugurating the DS line in style. The new DS line will feature a range of distinctive models with more radical design content, rounding out the Marque's main range. As its name suggests, the new line is a further symbol of CITROËN creativity and technology.


The DS3 is an assertive vehicle with radical good looks that customers can personalise with a broad range of styling components. A breath of fresh air and modernity, the newcomer’s dynamic on-road performance successfully blends efficiency and peace of mind, while the intelligence of its design makes for a modular car that adapts to all situations.


The DS3 forges a new path…

… by placing desire at the heart of the motoring experience:

With its sculptural styling and striking lines, the DS3 exudes enormous appeal. It is a truly distinctive vehicle with a strong personality built on original creations including a ‘floating’ roof, a ‘shark fin’ that lends vigour to the waistline, and recesses on the nose housing LED lights.

A concentrate of energy, the DS3 also features a unique onboard atmosphere where elegance and technology meet and marks of quality abound. The sophisticated instrumentation – with three conical dials on the cluster – driver-focused commands, low-set driving position and body-hugging seats lend a cockpit feel. Chrome trim further enhances the overall sense of vitality with luxury and distinction.

… through its vivacious, distinctive design:

The DS3 is in fact not one but a multitude of vehicles, that each person can create in his or her fashion. Exterior personalisation components include the roof, body, rearview mirror housings and wheels. Inside, customers get a choice of dashboard strip, gearstick knob and a host of other interior equipment with a panoply of colours, fabrics and materials. And for the ultimate in bespoke motoring, customers can select from seven innovative personalisation themes reflecting different trends and lifestyles. The DS3 is a highly personal and categorically singular vehicle.

… by providing a thoroughly modern take on driving pleasure:

The DS3 is also a stand-out on the road, combining driving pleasure and everyday ease of use. Nimble and energetic, the DS3 brings the driver “closer” to the road for effortless cornering. For Vincent Besson, Director of Products and Markets Strategy at PSA, “driving the DS3 is like having the wheels at your fingertips”. The DS3’s on-road assurance gives it crisp reactions and top-level control and safety. And travelling comfort sets a new standard in the segment.

The newcomer's CO₂ emissions are fully in line with CITROËN’S environmental leadership, coming in as low as 99 g/km. It will ship with a choice of five carbon-efficient Euro V engines:

• 2 HDi DPFS units developing 110 bhp and 90 bhp,
  
• 3 petrol engines with the THP 150, VTi 120 and VTi 95.

CITROËN also made remarkable efforts to keep the weight of the DS3 to a strict minimum, while using a new development plan to ensure robustness. Manufactured in France at the Poissy plant, it benefits from all of PSA's production system approaches, for exemplary overall quality.

… by making owners’ everyday lives a charm:

Another innovative aspect of the DS3 is that its sleek body styling disguises an impressively versatile hatchback. It gets the most out of its exterior dimensions (3.95 m long, 1.71 m wide and 1.46 high) through particularly intelligent architecture. For example, the dashboard is set high up to increase leg room and the slim-back seats and estate car-style rear design free up room in the back. These design feats bring customers five real seats, extensive stowage space (including a 13-litre glove box) and a capacious boot (285 l) with a modular, 60:40 split-fold rear bench.

The DS3 also appeals to the senses with the HiFi System, worthy of latest-generation home systems. On top of these in-car features, CITROËN has added a dedicated services offering for DS3 owners, CITROËN FREEDRIVE, which, among other things, ensures that customers benefit from a replacement vehicle during DS3 servicing.


CITROËN DS3: THE CHARM OFFENSIVE

Stirring desire

• Unique personality that appeals with original styling
  
• Distinctive atmosphere through extreme attention to detail, with premium materials
  
• Broad and innovative personalisation range, with diverse components and seven original personalisation schemes

Feeling the road

• Road manners mixing pleasure and control with classic CITROËN ride comfort
  
• Environmental credentials in line with CITROËN’s leadership in the field: a 99 g/km version and remarkable work on weight control
  
• Taming the road with ESP and six standardfit airbags
  
• Irreproachable reliability: robust design process and production in France at the Poissy site

Making everyday life a charm

• The first supermini to do elegant and practical at the same time: 5 real seats, a huge boot (285 l) and a 60:40 splitfold bench
  
• CITROËN creativity ensuring a total sensory experience, with acoustic comfort worthy of superior segments
  
• A range of DS linededicated services, CITROËN FREEDRIVE, to satisfy the most demanding customers

STIRRING DESIRE

Unique personality that appeals with original styling

The CITROËN DS3 styling team worked with three keywords in mind: surprise, appeal and vitality. The result of their labours is a muscular yet sensual body, compact, dynamic and nuanced by refined chrome trim. This is an expressive object that stirs the desire to travel.

Creativity inhabits each feature of the DS3, witnessed first of all in the floating roof and the B pillar “shark fin” effect. The pure lines of the DS3 exude pleasure and appeal: the dynamic front end suggests allnew driving sensations and the estate carstyle rear promises a spacious cabin, while the exquisite finish of each part of the body brings a premium feel to the whole. The styling is radical, with LEDs nestled in the side recesses on the front end. Sitting squarely on its wheels, the DS3 also has a reassuring look.

This same singular impression of measured energy and elegance also applies inside, where each part is elegantly cut and integrated, and assembled with extreme attention to detail. The ‘aerial’ upper part of the flowing dashboard echoes the floating roof. The overall horizontal aspect is enhanced by a strip running the entire width of the dashboard, from front passenger to driver. The driving position is cockpitinspired, with all displays and driving controls within easy reach of the driver. The instrument cluster, with three conical dials, together with the smalldiameter wheel and lowslung, bodyhugging seats together convey an emphatic sporty character.

Distinctive atmosphere

The premium atmosphere onboard the DS3 is enhanced by luxury materials worked in a harmonious whole.

Each piece of material charms the eye and feels good to the touch:

• Thermocoated components such as the dashboard top are finished in an organic, soft grain that contrasts with the smooth, lacquered effect of the dashboard strip.
  
• The upholstery is equally prestigious, with finely overstitched leather available in three colours rounding out a range of refined, contemporary fabrics.
  
• Some components are highlighted with generous chrome trim, including the DS badge on the steering wheel and button surrounds. Depending on trim level, some of the chrome work is satinfinished, combining the brilliance and richness of the material with the purity and elegance of the colour. These features embody a certain idea of Frenchstyle luxury.

Bespoke motoring

The aesthetics of the DS3 are available in a multitude of possibilities. The range of colours and materials and the variety of combinations bring a touch of modernity to the segment.

According to the customer’s wishes:

• the roof can be painted in four colours that contrast with the rest of the body: Onyx black, Opale white, Botticelli blue and Carmen rouge;
  
• rearview mirror housings and door sills can be clothed in colour or chrome;
  
• wheels and wheel centres ship in a nearinfinite range of colours.
  
• Inside, the dashboard strip – encompassing air vents, instrument cluster surround and multifunction screens – is the largest designscheme component and comes in a choice of 8 finishes.
  
• The gearstick knob ships in seven different trims, blending satinfinish chrome with the brilliance of the colour and leather.

Customers can choose from all these different designscheme components to make their own unique vehicle. And in a symbolic touch, the key plip features a disc in the same colour as the body paint, so that people always have a little piece of their DS3 on them!

To further emphasise the premium character of the DS3, CITROËN will be proposing several personalisation themes, with design schemes corresponding to lifestyles and trends and consisting of exterior and interior styling touches. The following seven offers will be proposed, with the first four available on launch:

• Maori
  
• Zebra
  
• Wave
  
• Daisy
  
• CoDesign
  
• Map
  
• Plane

FEELING THE ROAD

Strong character for total peace of mind

The DS3 provides an allnew, resolutely modern driving experience combining verve and control. Responsive and assertive, the DS3 also sets new standards on ride comfort and behindthewheel pleasure.

Essentials behind this onroad performance:

• The chassis and running gear, with MacPhersontype suspension at the front and a flexible traverse beam at the rear, are the result of highprecision development work.
  
• Springing and damping have been developed to perfectly “read” the road, with excellent body roll control and impressive poise in corners, while remaining easy to handle.
  
• Bidensity shims on the rear axle effectively filter out road disturbances while ensuring excellent crosswise stability.
  
• Steering is enhanced by a smalldiameter wheel (363 mm) and a calibrated power setting to send back extremely precise information. This enables drivers to “place” the wheels exactly where they want, whatever the speed.
  
• Development work, which also extended to seats and tyres, has ensured perfect course stability, bringing drivers a reassuring feel of control.

Because a good car needs a good engine, the DS3 comes with five Euro V powerplants that score high on refinement, flexibility and performance:

• 2 HDi DPFS engines developing 90 bhp and 110 bhp mated to a 5 or 6speed manual gearbox,
  
• 3 petrol engines fitted with 5 and 6speed manual gearboxes: the THP 150, VTi 120 – also available with an automatic gearbox – and VTi 95.

In line with CITROËN's environmental objectives

Because driving pleasure also has to be a responsible pleasure, the CITROËN DS3 was designed to for increased environmental respect. Its CO₂ emissions are fully in line with the environmental leadership and commitments of CITROËN. Over a combined cycle, the HDi DPFS versions all emit less than 115 g/km of CO₂ – with a model at 99 g/km – while the petrolpowered DS3s emit between 136 g/km and 160 g/km.

Looking beyond powerplant performance, these environmental results were achieved through a keen focus on keeping the DS3’s weight down, with designers looking at every possible source for mass reduction. This objective was factored in right from the start of the project:

• The specifications for Styling included architectural constraints targeting weight loss and safety, for example, the choice of a rectilinear rather than angled dashboard crossmember.
  
• This approach was supplemented by “part by part” analysis, with designers reducing the weight of parts with equivalent technological content.
  
• In addition, digital calculations were used across the board to define and test these parts (for stiffness, acoustics, etc.), optimising not just the mass but the technical quality of each component. For example, the rear suspension on the DS3 weighs 7 kilos less than the previous generation.

Combined with impressive aerodynamics (Cd 0.31), this weight loss also makes the car easier to handle and more responsive.

Taming the road so that only driving pleasure remains

Because it makes no compromises on passenger safety, the CITROËN DS3 is fitted with a particularly safe braking system, including a host of standardfit features such as ESP, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA). This equipment helps drivers in the most difficult situations, including loss of grip. Passive safety is also toplevel, with six airbags, threepoint seat belts and Isofix anchor points in the rear side seats all fitted as standard.
From the first trim level, the DS3 gets a range of driving aids, such as a cruise control/speed limiter and a gear change indicator that recommends gear changes to save on fuel and cut emissions.
The CITROËN DS3 also ships with MyWay navigation, a sophisticated audio and multimedia system with builtin colour navigation, an MP3 and WMAcompatible CD player and a Bluetooth^® handsfree kit.

Irreproachable reliability

DS3 designers set out to develop an irreproachably reliable vehicle. To that end, the DS3 is the first CITROËN project to fully benefit from a new development process that uses no prototype tooling, the idea being to create as early as possible a vehicle resembling the production model – rather than a prototype – along with the corresponding tooling. This approach results in significant gains in quality by involving at the earliest stage possible all the people working on the project, such as designers, suppliers and manufacturers. And it works so well that, for the DS3 project, the large majority of defects were processed well before the test drives, which will have covered some two million kilometres by launch.

In addition to this extremely robust design process, the new CITROËN C3 will benefit from production at PSA’s Poissy site, which complies with the Marque's requirements on quality across the board. An ISO 9001certified production centre, it is equipped with the very latest in production tools and technology. It also benefits from the entire set of policies in PSA's new production system and Lean Manufacturing, for optimised production quality and reduced customer lead times.

MAKING EVERYDAY LIFE A CHARM

The elegant supermini that surprises with its versatility

At 3.95 m long and 1.71 m wide, the DS3 is one of the most compact models in the segment. Its height, 1.46 m, gives the body styling a resolutely dynamic feel. And with a standardsetting turning circle of just 10.2 m to 10.4 m (depending on the tyres), the DS3 is highly manoeuvrable. All of which makes the newcomer a natural in its role as a stylish urban vehicle.

At the same time, the DS3 also sets a new segment standard on spaciousness, the result of remarkable work on architecture and interior design that makes it the first truly versatile compact coupé. As dynamic as it is compact and with equal measures of sportiness and practicality, the CITROËN DS3 has five real seats, all of which offer the roominess to be found in a compact hatchback, widthwise and lengthwise. Drivers can find a perfect driving position thanks to a steering wheel and seat adjustable for both height and reach. Leg room is generous in the front, thanks to the “raised” dashboard design, and in the back, with slim front seat backs providing plenty of room underneath.
Two types of front seat are available: “comfort” for the first trim levels and “dynamic” for even more body support. Meanwhile, back seat passengers get highly practical grab handles making it easy to get out of the cabin.

Boot dimensions also up the ante compared on the competition, with bestinclass volume at 285 litres. Boot space can be modularised with a 60:40 splitfold rear bench, which owners can fold down with one hand in a single movement. Stowage compartments are legion, with the biggest glove box in the segment (13 litres) and cubby holes on the central console and fascia. The DS3 makes everyday life that much easier.

A total sensory experience

Together with its design approach and choice of materials and trim, the CITROËN DS3 appeals to the senses of passengers with the most innovative technologies.

The allnew HiFi system is worthy of the latest in home sound systems, with impressive audio reproduction. Equipped with an additional, third speaker located in the middle of the upper dashboard and an amplified subwoofer in the boot, the new system brings passengers rich sound with impressive depth that faithfully reproduces the most extreme frequencies.
The DS3 benefits from toplevel acoustic treatment, for a velvetsmooth atmosphere on board. Soundproofing and noise absorption were carried out as close as possible to the sources of noise and vibration. Designers paid particular attention to the engine compartment and the doors, adding door sill joints and increasing the grampermetre count of sealing sheets to 200 (compared with a segment average of 90).

And for olfactory pleasure, the DS3 can ship with a scented airfreshener, fitted with a premium, chromefinished control.

A distinctive service

With the CITROËN FREEDRIVE offering, introduced for the DS3, the idea of customer service assumes its full meaning.

First of all, customers get guaranteed peace of mind, with CITROËN handling all vehicle maintenance and servicing and proposing added extras such as integral car cleaning.

In addition, CITROËN FREEDRIVE aims to keep drivers mobile at all times. If their vehicle is immobilised, customers are provided with the most appropriate means of transport. They also benefit from a replacement vehicle when they
take their vehicle in for servicing.



[Source : CITROEN]
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MUNICH : August 24, 2009 - The MINI brand will turn 50 on 26 August 2009. Fifty years ago to the day, the British Motor Corporation (BMC) unveiled the result of its quest to design a new and revolutionary compact car. The very first sales brochures praised the Morris Mini-Minor’s “extraordinary future promise”. Fifty years later, we know that few vehicle concepts have survived as long or achieved such popularity. No other vehicle has ever spawned such a wide range of variants as the Mini. Last year’s MINI E premiere was definitely one of the highlights of MINI’s long history, fulfilling its future promise in a way that no one could have foreseen 50 years ago.


Reducing fuel consumption was already becoming an important issue for vehicle developers fifty years ago. Back in 1956 the Suez crisis and petrol rationing were major factors for the automobile industry. BMC management gave designer Alec Issigonis the following guidelines: the Mini must make creative use of the limited space available; accommodate four passengers; and guarantee perfect handling and low fuel consumption. By 1962 – within three years of its market launch – Mini production already exceeded 200,000 vehicles a year. Once the world’s rich and famous (Peter Sellers, the Beatles, Brigitte Bardot, Clint Eastwood, Lord Snowdon, Twiggy…) adopted the Mini as their preferred city car, it rapidly became the symbol of an entire generation. Over the next 40 years the Mini became an icon – a brand with a unique tradition and charm that appealed to all ages.

Brand re-launch
Following its acquisition of Rover in March 1994, the BMW Group decided to revive the MINI brand tradition and continue writing Mini’s history: The new MINI was to create a unique premium brand with unmistakeable charisma and excellent product qualities in the compact segment – respecting its history, but at the same time meeting the needs of its present customers. The brand was successfully re-launched thanks to consistent positioning as a premium global brand and a clear focus on its new target customers. The re-launch relied upon excellent product qualities and a modern design that paid tribute to its earlier iconic status. Communications also give the brand a consistent global profile, or to be more precise, a unique MINI feeling: MINI not just as an A-to-B car – but as an expression of an outgoing and spontaneous lifestyle, with “enthusiasm” at the very heart of the MINI brand.

MINI as a pillar of the BMW Group
Since the MINI brand’s acquisition by the BMW Group, it has become an important element in the BMW portfolio. MINI sales have increased every year since 2002, with more than 232,000 MINI brand vehicles sold in 2008. The United States was the single largest market for MINI cars last year. To date almost 1.5 million vehicles have been sold worldwide since the “New MINI” was launched in 2001. Its characteristic combination of driving fun, individualistic style and premium quality has led to rising sales on all continents in recent years. This unique premium compact car is now sold in 80 countries around the world, with Brazil becoming its newest market in 2009. The MINI brand has come of age and become an important pillar of the BMW Group in virtually all international markets.

Like the rest of the automobile industry, MINI has been unable to escape the effects of the global economic crisis this year. However, by July 2009, with deliveries up 0.3%, sales of MINI brand vehicles were already slightly higher than in July of the previous year at 19,281 vehicles. The new MINI Convertible in particular, which has been available since late March, has given sales a boost. Last month, the brand reported its best July sales ever in Germany (3,207/ +16.1%). On the international markets, 120,813 MINI cars were sold in the year to the end of July.

Production Triangle
The BMW Group has invested more than 380 million British pounds in the MINI plant in Oxford since 2001, as well as a further 100 million pounds in the Hams Hall and Swindon production facilities which also form part of the MINI Production Triangle. The MINI plant in Oxford is currently jointly manufacturing the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible models. It is also producing the extremely sporty MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and MINI John Cooper Works Convertible models. Around 1.24 million of the 1.5 million MINI vehicles so far built in Oxford were based on the traditional body design of the standard hard-roofed two-door version. The Oxford plant has also produced some 179,000 MINI Convertibles, as well as 79,000 MINI Clubman. If these figures are added to sales of the classic Mini, the brand can claim to have sold 6.8 million vehicles worldwide.


Outlook
The MINI 50 Camden and MINI 50 Mayfair birthday editions will make their world debut at the IAA 2009, where further product surprises await visitors. To mark its 50th birthday, the MINI presence will focus on the brand’s 50-year success story. Visitors will be greeted by an oversized “What a Birthday. It’s MINI.” banner. With its MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible versions, the brand’s potential is far from exhausted. Ventures into other vehicle segments are another appealing prospect for its designers. While the MINI Crossover Concept may appear to be a typical example of the MINI design philosophy – it is also a new model version without historical roots that can take the brand to a whole new dimension. The market launch of the MINI Crossover is scheduled for 2010.



[Source : BMW-MINI]
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SUZUKA CIRCUIT : August 23, 2009 - The 6th round of the 2009 AUTOBACS SUPER GT series, the 38th INTERNATIONAL Pokka GT SUMMER SPECIAL, was held on Aug. 23 at the Suzuka Circuit (one lap 5.807km x 121 laps) in Mie Prefecture. The winner of the GT500 class was the KRAFT SC430 driven by Hiroaki Ishiura and Kazuya Oshima.


Hiroaki Ishiura and Kazuya Oshima had driven the KRAFT SC430 to win the pole position on Saturday. Ishiura is in his second season in the GT500 class, while Oshima is a rookie this season.

The race was shortened this yea from its previous 1,000 km to 700 km. From his pole-position start, Ishiura soon pulled away and opened up a gap over the competition. After Oshima took the wheel he continued to race on in the lead unchallenged. By the 65th lap at mid-race, he had a 10-second lead over the 2nd-place Honda NSX.

In the latter stages of the race a trailing car caught fire and the safety car came out to slow the race, causing the KRAFT SC430 to lose most of its lead margin, but with a well timed pit stop and an effective race strategy they managed to maintain the lead and run on to a pole-to-checkered victory.

Ishiura and Oshima also paired as drivers in the GT300 class in 2007 and won the driver's title that year. Now they are paired again in the GT500 class and this is their first victory in this class. This represents the second win for the LEXUS TEAM KRAFT, following a win in round 3 of the 2006 season. This is the second win this season for the Lexus 430 after winning the 2nd round, also here at Suzuka.


In the GT300 class the victory went to the S Road MOLA Z (Kazuki Hoshino/Masataka Yanagida) after fighting back from a 14th place qualifying position with a skillfully run race while others suffered mishaps and passing the leader just before the last lap to score a dramatic win. This team also won last year's round 6 at Suzuka, giving them two-in-a row at the Suzuka summer festival of racing.


Winner Comments

GT500

Hiroaki Ishiura: "The first stint had to be run on the tire we ran the qualifying with, so my big concern was how to make the tires last. After building up a 3 or 4-second margin of lead, I started going easier on the tires. Even so, it got difficult near the end and car No. 3 was closing in. After I got through that, however, things got easier. It was a bit nerve-wracking when the Safety Car came out and we lost our margin, but the team made a good decision from the pit and we were able to build up a margin of lead again. That was a major factor in our victory today. After that I nervously watched Oshima drive with my heart racing (laughs). Last year I was given a big opportunity [to drive in the GT500 as one of the Toyota ace drivers] and it turned out to be a season with a lot of pressure for me, but with this victory I feel relieved at last."

Kazuya Oshima: "The machine has been in good condition all weekend, we won the pole position and everything was fine up to that point. In the race I concentrated on not making any mistakes and keeping my concentration to the end. I am so relieved now that I was able to make to the end with no mistakes. We lost our 10-second margin when the safety car came out, but I told myself that couldn't be helped and returned to the race determined to go all out. I was feeling good too, and I knew that the tires would hold out to the finish, so I was confident that even if they the competition caught up with me I could still outrun them. But in the latter stages of the race my cool suit stopped functioning and I soon drank all of my drink supply, so by the end I was running purely on will power (grimaces)."

GT300

Kazuki Hoshino: "We didn't decide whether to divide the race into three stints (with pit stops) or four stints, so we decided to make that decision after watching Yanagida's first stint. Seeing how well he drove and gained ground for us, we decided to go for a 3-stint race, and that turned out to be the right decision. The race development also went in our favor and we got 3rd position after the Safety Car came out. Last year taught me that if you don't give up until its over good things are bound to come your way [he won the title in the last lap of the last race], so I kept my hopes up all the time I was watching Yanagida drive. I don't even remember the moment when he passed the leader. The mechanics were all embracing each other in joy even though the race wasn't over yet (laughs). I am really grateful to everyone."

Masataka Yanagida: "This is really unbelievable for me. We started in 14th place and won at the very end of the race. I really feel wonderful to be able be here now in this place as the winner. At the end, when I saw a GT500 car pass the No. 2 car on the 130R curve, I decided to make my move there. The three cars competing for the lead were all running at about the same pace, so it wasn't really possible to pass it alone. When being passed by a GT500 car, the GT300 car suffers a time loss, so I decided to use that chance and pulled up alongside it on the 130R curve and then passed it in the chicane.
Thinking about the series title, the two of us (drivers) decided that this race at Suzuka was our last chance to keep the possibility of a title alive. The fact that we were able to win here in the last lap is a great result that will surely carry over into the last three rounds of the season. I am going to keep my hopes up for the remaining races and not give up until its over."

Race result : 2009 AUTOBACS SUPER GT Round 6 - 38th INTERNATIONAL Pokka GT SUMMER SPECIAL

SUZUKA CIRCUIT - Length : 5.807km x 121 Laps =702.647 km - Weather: Fine - Course: Dry - Spectators: 34,000












[Source : Official SUPER GT]
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