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Kia Soulster Concept, 2009

2011-06-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

Kia Soulster Concept, 2009

The open-air concept of Kia Soulster is a variation of the highly anticipated Soul.
The Kia Soulster delivers something new, intriguing and relevant to today's buyers - a fun, affordable convertible for active people who like to share good times with friends.
The two-door concept with roadster roots, the brightly colored Soul'r yellow Soulster projects a hip industrial look with screw borders, reminiscent of a rivet design found on a fighter jet. The windshield is shortened for a sportier and hunkered down appearance. A two-piece top enables passengers to expose the front and back seating areas independently, using elbow-grease technology. The roll bar serves a dual purpose and includes a place for the slider tracks, while providing protection not found in traditional convertibles.

Kia Soulster has a tough but refined character with a unique face .
The toughness is expressed through details like the anodized skid-pad insert, which matches the fender vents, roll bar header and wheels.
Kia Soulster's attitude incorporates lighting that shines through with an amber glow under the headlamps. The side vents, side-mirror turn signals, unique LED headlamps, fog and tail lamps incorporate blue shades.
The energetic, distinctive look carries from front to rear with dual chrome exhaust and polished aluminum exhaust tips featuring carbon-fiber interior sleeves. The large 19-inch, five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels perfect the Kia Soulster's appearance. Regardless of Soulster being viewed from front, back or side, it offers innovative perspectives derived from the original Soul.

Inside Out
Kia Soulster takes even more progressive variations from Soul beginning with the new four-passenger seating design, a diversion from Soul's five-passenger arrangement, lending spacious versatility for long summer weekends. The surprisingly flexible Kia Soulster provides real seating for two in the front with comfortable seating for two more adults in the back. Fold-flat passenger and rear seats combined with ample headroom make this the perfect car for social outings outdoors and on the beach with friends. Making basic features hot, its crank-up windows are a purposefully key interior design element as are the dashboard-integrated audio speakers.
Adding to the edgy design scheme, the non-floor-mounted cantilevered seats project the illusion of being suspended in space when viewed from the side allowing for increased rear legroom. Storage compartments below each of the fold-flat rear seats, offer room for myriad cargo needs. In addition to the spacious cargo area, dual storage compartments also can be found in the rear and underneath the cargo hold area.

All Revved Up
With young buyers in mind, Kia Soulster offers an agile, smooth and spirited ride. As with its Soul cousin, Soulster's can be made available with a myriad of engine choices depending upon each market's needs. A 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which produces approximately 120 horsepower. For those looking for a little more power, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is available with either the five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission, producing approximately 140 horsepower. Fuel economy for both engines is estimated at 30 or more miles per gallon. Other markets might choose the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 124 horsepower or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel.

Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

2011-06-04T06:40:00.001-07:00

Hyundai i-flow Concept, 2010

Making its global debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the Hyundai i-flow Concept car carries forward the company's evocative new form language, 'fluidic sculpture'. The flowing, elegant lines not only create a bionic, futuristic shape, but also contribute to exceptional aerodynamics, helping to reduce the car's CO2 output to just 85g/km and fuel consumption to only 3l/100km.

Hyundai's first diesel hybrid powertrain is also a key factor in delivering such an environmentally-conscious return, as is the application of next-generation materials and technologies developed in cooperation with leading chemical company BASF.

Previewing a future D-segment contender
With an overall length of 4.780mm and a 2.800mm wheelbase, the Hyundai i-flow Concept brings new ideas and a pioneering form to the traditional European D-segment. The dramatically-sculpted forms of the interior and exterior make for a striking sports sedan, and its width and height (1.850mm and 1.420mm respectively) give it an athletic stance.

The name i-flow reflects the exceptionally aerodynamic shape and the flowing lines of the concept car's eye-catching styling, and retains the 'i' prefix of Hyundai's established alphanumeric nomenclature for Europe. In 2011 Hyundai will bring into production a new challenger in the segment, drawing on the Hyundai i-flow Concept's sleek styling and innovative technology.

The evolution of 'fluidic sculpture'
Thomas Buerkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai Motor Europe, appraises the design concept of i-flow, or HED-7, the seventh in a series of daring concept cars to be born in the Russelsheim styling studio:
Hyundai i-flow Concept

Inside: minimum weight, maximum space and a bionic feel
The interior of Hyundai i-flow Concept redefines the perception of space in a sedan bodystyle. Fundamental elements, such as the seats and center console, were crafted for minimal weight and volume using cutting-edge materials from BASF - one of the world's leading automotive suppliers.

The seats, for example, were developed in conjunction with BASF using advanced stress analysis, which highlighted the unnecessary mass areas and pointed towards an optimized lightweight seat structure. 'Steron', a BASF material, gives the seats a highly-resilient quality, excellent breathability and a high-tech touch.

The upper dashboard, meanwhile, is treated with Elastoskin, a sprayed skin from BASF for a sophisticated, shimmering finish.

This technical, meticulous approach combines with an abundance of natural materials to engender a bionic feel in the cabin, further symbolized by the green color tones and the leaf-like shadows projected from the roof's semi-transparent dye-sensitized solar cells.

The cockpit's main interface centers around an expansive, contoured screen, which recognizes not only touch but also gestural inputs along its fascia-wide display. The fluidic forms of the exterior are echoed in the Hyundai i-flow Concept's cabin, where continuous lines sweep from the dashboard, through the doors to the open storage area at the rear.

The innovative, B-pillarless doors allow comfortable ingress and egress for passengers. The front door is hinged at the A-pillar, and the rear door swings backwards on an intelligent hinge arm system to allow unrestricted access to the rear seats. Additionally the front seats can be turned 30° towards the outside, to invite the driver and co-driver to enter the ultramodern lightweight seats.

An eco-technological test bed
The Hyundai i-flow Concept is a test bed for new energy harvesting ideas, ranging from flexible solar panel roofing to a thermo-electric generator. The key technical components of the vehicle have been developed by Hyundai under the Blue Drive™ banner in cooperation with BASF. Blue Drive™ remains at the heart of Hyundai's product development strategy, and continues to drive the company towards its target of global leadership in environmentally-sensitive technologies.

A focal point of Hyundai i-flow Concept is its extraordinary CO2 emissions level of just 85g/km. The car uses efficient aerodynamics, energy harvesting technologies and weight-saving materials to significantly undercut the current average for a D-segment sedan. Furthermore, the company's first diesel-electric hybrid powertrain runs the exciting new U2 1,7-liter engine augmented by two-stage turbocharging and Hyundai's Lithium Ion-Polymer battery to give a very efficient and advanced combination, particularly when partnered with Hyundai i-flow Concept's six-speed, dual-clutch transmission.

Energy Conservation
BASF and Hyundai R&D engineers have developed thermal engine encapsulation, which ensures that the engine reaches optimum operating temperature more quickly, by retaining heat when the car is at idle. Where a non-insulated engine would take three hours to drop to 40°C, the Hyundai i-flow Concept will stay above that temperature for 14 hours. This translates into fuel savings and emissions cuts of 5 per cent during summer and up to 9 per cent during winter.

Energy Harvesting
Another pioneering technique introduced in collaboration with BASF is thermo-electric waste heat recovery. This process equates to further reductions in fuel consumption, 5% at highest driving. In fact, up to half of the electrical energy consumed by Hyundai i-flow Concept at 80kph - 250 watts - can be recovered through the work of a thermo-electric generator. Harvested energy from hot exhaust gases is recaptured by this generator which is fitted into the exhaust manifold. The thermal electric generator then converts the wasted heat into useful electrical energy to help power auxiliary systems.

Liquid Metal, a coating with the appearance of a glossy skin made of liquid metal, has been developed by BASF Coatings. Special effect pigments in this eco-friendly waterborne coating system let the surface appear as polished metal with targeted mirror like reflections - this gives a liquid skin appearance to the car's exterior and increases the tension of the surface in the same time. The high color saturation on the Hyundai i-flow Concept adds an energizing charisma to the Hyundai concept car. The typical high contrast between highlight and flop underlines the sculptural impact of the Hyundai i-flow Concept.

Adaptive aerodynamic features harmonize with fluidic sculpture styling, not only to bring aesthetic value, but also to increase fuel efficiency. Radical ideas, such as the arch-like roofline and streamlined front, have a real impact, and the boat-tail shape and kick-up lines force the airflow to separate at the rear of the vehicle, leading to an extremely impressive aerodynamic drag coefficient of just 0.25 Cd.

Dacia Sandero, 2009

2011-06-04T06:40:00.000-07:00

Dacia Sandero, 2009

After the introduction of Logan, Logan MCV, Logan Van and Logan Pickup, Dacia continues to broaden its range with the release of a generously-dimensioned, five-door hatchback: Sandero. The newcomer is manufactured in Pitesti, Romania and benefits from all the fundamental qualities that have become a hallmark of the Dacia range, namely ample cabin space, a high load capacity and robust build. Dacia Sandero will progressively go on sale in the majority of European markets starting from June 2008 and, like other models in the Dacia range, will back up its unrivalled equipment/price ratio with a three-year / 100,000km warranty in most European countries.

Dacia Sandero stands out as a modern hatchback with appealing looks that convey both dynamism and robustness. The front features modern, expressive headlamps and a grille and bumper that blend harmoniously with the bodywork. Its lateral lines form an "upturned wave" and underpin the impression of solidity, thanks notably to the broad side protective strips (according to version). The rear styling reinforces the sense of a generously proportioned, spacious and well-built vehicle.

The same resolve to appeal to customers and showcase its quality continues inside the car. The new dashboard has been thought through to be both modern and functional, while there is also the opportunity to combine different colours and surface finishes in several areas (according to version). The design of the door panels also contributes to the cabin's modern feel thanks to the smart handles and decorative trim strips (according to version). To mark the upgrade in range, Dacia Sandero is available with three dashboard trims and coordinated upholsteries. Particular attention was paid to produce an uncluttered, practical driving environment, with easy-toread instruments and controls which fall readily to hand.

Efficiency and travelling comfort
Dacia Sandero is built on the same B0 platform as Logan which features MacPherson-type front suspension with wishbone. Certain versions also come with a front anti-roll bar which ensures excellent roadholding when cornering. Dacia Sandero's rear suspension is also derived from the B0 platform and comprises a programmeddeflection torsion beam with coil springs and vertically-mounted, extended-travel dampers. The suspension package has been specially engineered for Dacia Sandero, including lower arm joints and a rear end which have been designed to deliver precise handling and good roadholding along sharply twisting roads. Like the Dacia range's other models, Sandero boasts high ground clearance (155mm) which means it is able take all types of road in its stride, both in and out of town, a factor that contributes further to its versatility. The new car also benefits from underbody protection which allows it to tackle unsealed surfaces with ease.

Power steering is naturally available for most versions to ensure safe, precise steering and a degree of driving pleasure worthy of a B-segment vehicle. The entry-level version comes without power steering with a view to keeping its price at a reasonable level. The slightly higher steering ratio compared with Clio II and work on the hub carrier and castor angle has resulted in a reduction in the effort required to turn the steering wheel.

Certain versions are equipped with a height and lumbar adjustable driver's seat which enables the ideal driving position to be found, while the driver can get more comfortable by the height adjustable steering wheel (according to version) and ergonomically-positioned steering wheel-mounted controls.

Last but not least, careful attention has been paid to thermal comfort to address the special needs of customers in a wide variety of climates and countries. The layout of the ducts has been thought through to ensure a rapid rise in temperature on start-up, as well as in extreme heat and cold.

A comprehensive range of engines
Dacia Sandero is available with a choice of two petrol engines (1.4l 75hp and 1.6l 90hp) and two diesel engines (1.5 dCi 70hp and 1.5 dCi 85hp) which have already proven their worth on numerous other vehicles in the Renault family and which have actively contributed to the success of the Dacia range.

The 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines are a perfect match for the cost, robustness and ease of maintenance values championed by the Dacia brand, and both are renowned for the availability of high torque at low engine speeds, as well as across a broad rev-band.

The benchmark 1.5 dCi is acclaimed as one of the world's most efficient diesel engines. Its advanced technology includes second-generation common rail direct injection which delivers high performance and very low fuel consumption. The 1.5 dCi engine is available in 70hp form and also a punchier 85hp version which was launched in September 2007 on Dacia Logan and Dacia Logan MCV. Low CO2 emissions of 120g ensure an attractive ecological footprint for the 1.5 dCi engines of Dacia Sandero.

Cabin space and carrying capacity worthy of the segment above
Although Dacia Sandero's price positions it in the small car area of the market, its generous interior and exterior dimensions are in fact more in keeping with those of a vehicle from the next compact category up. Its unrivalled cabin space/price ratio has been made possible thanks to its length (4.02m), width (1.75m) and wheelbase (2.59m).

The rear bench seat comfortably seats up to three adult passengers who benefit from 878mm of headroom, 145mm of kneeroom and 1,425mm of elbowroom, while a child seat can be fitted to all three seats. In addition to the rear's roomy dimensions, access to the rear seats is made even easier due to the fact that the rear doors open to an angle of up to 67°.

The boot capacity of 320 litres is also unbeatable for the vehicle's price and compact dimensions, while its practical, modular layout is enhanced by the folding rear bench seat which offers a 60/40 split according to version. With the bench seat folded, the total carrying capacity extends to 1,200 litres, ensuring that Dacia Sandero stands out as a compact yet extremely spacious hatchback capable of comfortably carrying up to five adults.

Safety: an inescapable consideration
When it comes to Dacia Sandero's safety credentials, the newcomer benefits from the acclaimed expertise of the Renault Group in this field.

On the active safety front, particular attention has been paid to Dacia Sandero's braking system which offers a degree of comfort, bite and progressive stopping power that is perfectly in keeping with the level expected of a Bsegment car in Europe. Dacia Sandero can also be equipped with latest-generation Bosch 8.1 ABS which incorporates EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and, for the first time in the Dacia range, EBA (Emergency Brake Assist).

Dacia Sandero is equipped with numerous passive safety features too, including the use of materials such as high elastic limit (HEL) steel which ensures enhanced cabin resistance by minimising deformation, notably in the case of head-on impacts. The combination of the magnesium steering wheel frame and retractable steering column contributes to the dissipation of the kinetic energy produced in an impact, while the honeycomb structure of the polypropylene dashboard reduces the risk of knee injury. In addition to the materials it uses, the curved design of the lower part of the cowling matches the shape of the tibias with a view to spreading out the force of an impact should the tibias come into contact with the dash. Last but not least, legs and ankles are further protected by underfoot padding on both the passenger and driver sides.

Dacia Sandero is equipped with three-point seatbelts. The front seatbelts incorporate calibrated load limiters for enhanced protection of the thorax. Depending on version, these three-point seatbelts are height-adjustable to optimise body restraint in case of impact. The retention system can also be upgraded to include pyrotechnic pretensioners for the front seatbelts. Dacia Sandero also benefits from ISOFIX child seat anchorage for the outer rear seats.

Depending on equipment level, Dacia Sandero comes with up to four airbags. The driver's airbag, which has been specially designed for Dacia Sandero, features a vent that adjusts the pressure applied as the bag deploys. Certain versions are equipped with two lateral head thorax airbags which provide extra protection in case of side impact, in addition to that ensured by the padding and strengthening structures incorporated as standard in the doors. The lateral head thorax airbags are located in strengthened seats which come with headrests specifically designed to prevent injury to the cervical vertebrae in case of rear impact. This new set-up ensures a better position of the back and enhanced retention and comfort of the head.

Dacia Logan MCV, 2009

2011-06-04T06:39:00.000-07:00

Dacia Logan MCV, 2009

New version of the Dacia Logan MCV, the best-selling station wagon in France, was launched following the Dacia Sandero and new Dacia Logan.

With fresh body styling adopting the new visual identity of the brand, an upgraded Lauréate model and the arrival of a Prestige version, new Dacia Logan MCV is an integral part of the renewal of Dacia, a generous and clever brand.

New Dacia Logan MCV obviously retains its successful formula of unbeatable cabin room for the price, impressive modular design and versatility in use, along with recognized reliability found in the previous generation.

New Dacia Logan MCV was launched in France on October 3, 2008, naturally with the threeyear 100,000 km warranty. The entry-level price is as attractive as ever at just €8,900 in France.

New Dacia Logan MCV is produced at Dacia's ISO 14001-certified Pitesti plant in Romania. The new model is 95% recoverable and contains 5% recycled plastic. The 70 hp dCi and 85 hp dCi models, emitting 140 g/km of CO2 and 137 g/km of CO2, respectively, both carry the Dacia eco2 signature.

Suzuki Grand Vitara, 2009

2010-11-01T22:01:00.000-07:00

Suzuki Grand Vitara, 2009

Suzuki Grand Vitara surpasses other SUVs in its size and price category in balancing off-road capability with the very real needs of a daily commute. The vehicle's surprising off-road performance is matched by an equally impressive interior, making the Grand Vitara the perfect choice for adventure-minded drivers seeking to confidently explore the outside world in comfort and style. The ultimate discovery vehicle, the Suzuki Grand Vitara helps customers engage directly with their environment and their experiences.

For 2009, the rugged and award-winning Suzuki Grand Vitara, a true SUV in a segment of "soft-roaders," offers "brute-ute" owners the opportunity to resize for better fuel economy without settling for a "cute-ute" lacking full SUV capability. A standard, all-new four-cylinder engine provides drivers with better mileage, and a new, more powerful V6 delivers fuel economy better than the V6 it replaces.

A new grille and front bumper design accent the Suzuki Grand Vitara distinctive, chiseled-yet-elegant lines, with additional interior enhancements, including illuminated steering wheel controls, a sliding front center armrest, visor extenders, HVAC controls, upgraded audio system and updated cloth upholstery. As with all retail 2009 Suzuki automobiles and light trucks, the Grand Vitara is backed by America's #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.

Performance and Functionality

The new Suzuki-developed 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 166 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of peak torque, delivering EPA fuel economy estimates of up to 19 mpg/city and 26 mpg/highway. Available for Suzuki Grand Vitara XSport and Luxury models is a new 3.2-liter V6 engine with 230 horsepower and 213 lb.-ft. of torque, replacing the 2.7-liter V6 engine in 2008 Grand Vitara that produced 185 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. Despite an increase of 45 horsepower, the new V6 betters the old motor in fuel economy ratings. The new engine is also 20 percent cleaner than the 2008 model as measured by the State of California's smog index rating. The new V6 also features variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust camshafts, and both Suzuki Grand Vitara engines use a zero-maintenance timing chain in place of a belt.

The Grand Vitara's new four-cylinder engine can be teamed to a standard five-speed manual transmission or a new four-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 is matched to a standard five-speed automatic transmission. To help fulfill their sense of adventure, customers can choose among RWD models, Single-Mode four-wheel drive or Four-Mode full-time four-wheel drive, a traction system unlike anything else offered in the segment. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is standard for all Suzuki Grand Vitara models, along with a new rollover sensor for the standard side curtain airbags. Enhancing performance on any road is a strengthened structure for 2009, plus rear disc brakes that replace the previous drums.

Suzuki Four-Mode four-wheel drive offers the best of both worlds: further aided by a completely retuned suspension, it is exceptionally capable off-road but is civilized on the asphalt. On pavement, drivers can leave the dash-mounted transfer case switch in 4H and the electronically controlled on-demand four-wheel-drive system will apply traction to the front wheels only as needed, optimizing economy. When traveling off-road, or for low-speed power and traction, drivers can turn the switch to high-range 4H Lock or low-range 4L Lock to engage the center differential lock. The V6 models with Four-Mode full-time four-wheel drive also feature Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, which can enhance driving safety on steep slopes.

For RV owners, a Suzuki Grand Vitara equipped with an automatic transmission or with the Four-Mode full-time four-wheel-drive system can also be flat-towed. Switching the transfer case control into the neutral position helps minimize driveline wear and prevent non-driving miles from accumulating on the odometer.

Built Like a Brute

The Suzuki Grand Vitara continues Suzuki's 40-year heritage of building compact but rugged SUV-type vehicles, including a model named "Brute." The current Grand Vitara has proven its durability in some of the toughest global markets. Key to the Grand Vitara's go-anywhere capability is its unibody construction with integrated ladder frame, rear-drive-based driveline and four-wheel independent suspension. Typically, only luxury SUVs offer this premium architecture. This type of construction yields the strength and capability sought in large SUVs, while providing the on-road agility and ride quality expected in a modern compact SUV.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara from the "high wagons" in the segment is the availability of a Four-Mode full time four-wheel-drive system with two-speed transfer case. This hardware, combined with its rugged body construction, steep approach and departure angles, and 7.9 inches of ground clearance (4WD models), enables the Grand Vitara to keep going when the pavement turns to trail. In addition, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 3,000-lb. towing capacity (with V6) is double that of many car-based models and enough to haul light recreational boats, ATVs or motorcycles.

Safety

Beyond offering a strong-yet-weight-optimized structure, the unibody with built-in ladder frame contributes to collision protection in the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The reinforced cabin has the added safety of head-impact protection pad and front and rear side-impact door beams.

Active safety (the ability to help avoid an accident) technology in every Suzuki Grand Vitara model includes anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system and ESP with traction control. ESP helps ensure vehicle stability when cornering, under acceleration, during emergency maneuvers and when driving on slippery road surfaces. Taking input from a variety of sensors, ESP has the ability to apply individual brakes and reduce engine torque to help the driver maintain the desired line of travel.

Standard passive safety features in every Suzuki Grand Vitara model include driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbag supplemental restraint systems (SRS), advanced dual-stage front airbag SRS, advanced weight-sensing front passenger airbag SRS and front and rear side-curtain airbags networked with a rollover sensor. The three-point driver and front passenger seat belts feature pretensioners and shoulder height adjustment. Each rear seating position is equipped with a three-point seatbelt and a headrest. Also provided is a rear child-seat LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children).

The Grand Vitara's safety engineering also reflects Suzuki's attention to pedestrian impacts demanded in many global markets. The front end and the bumper integrate energy-absorbing materials to help reduce the possibility of serious leg injuries. The hood is designed to absorb some of the impact and help protect against serious head injuries. These factors helped the 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's highest rating of good in its most recent frontal crash protection test. In combination, these active and passive safety features make Suzuki Grand Vitara one of the best-equipped compact SUVs with respect to safety.

The Look and Function of a Suzuki

To simplify and improve the driver experience, Suzuki offers easy-to-use features that add useful, real-world functionality to each vehicle. The Suzuki Grand Vitara shows its Suzuki sensibilities in the simple, uncluttered design. Form follows function, with styling that does not compromise visibility, as it does in many crossover-type SUVs. Handsome good looks are part of the mix, too, along with SUV necessities, including short overhangs and roof rails. Exterior mirrors, door handles and bumpers are all color keyed.

The compact exterior footprint contains a roomy, comfortable and versatile cabin to take people and cargo on daily trips or extraordinary voyages. The Suzuki Grand Vitara offers comfortable seating for five, including reclining rear seats, and 24.4 cu.-ft. of storage space with the rear seats up. Cargo space expands to 68.9 cu.-ft. with the 60/40 split-folding seatbacks folded. High-quality materials and attention to fit and finish should help make a driver accustomed to a large luxury SUV feel at home. Controls are easy to access and use, which anyone used to driving a large luxury SUV might find refreshing.

Four Trim Lines, Two Engines, Three Drivelines

The 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara four-cylinder model is offered in four trim levels: Base, Premium, XSport and Luxury. The base model is RWD only, but its list of standard equipment is far from basic and includes: air conditioning with automatic climate control and micron air filtration system, trip computer, power windows, mirrors and door locks, remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel, automatic on/off headlamps, four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/XM Satellite Radio®-capable audio system and 16-inch wheels.

The Premium model (four-cylinder only) adds an available four-speed automatic transmission, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with illuminated audio controls, cruise control, privacy glass, full-size spare tire cover, cargo cover, and, when equipped with the optional Single-Mode four-wheel drive, heated exterior mirrors.

The XSport, available with RWD or Four-Mode four-wheel drive, adds function and luxury features, including power tilt-and-slide sunroof, the SmartPass™ keyless entry and start system, six-disc CD changer, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, roof rack rails and fog lamps. With the V6, XSport 4WD also gains Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, eight-speaker audio system with subwoofer and center channel speaker and door-mounted courtesy lights. In addition, the XSport deletes the full-size spare tire cover and replaces the standard steel spare wheel with a handsome matching alloy for a strong SUV image.

Suzuki Alto, 2009

2010-11-01T21:49:00.000-07:00

Suzuki Alto, 2009

At the 2008 Paris Motor Show, Suzuki has unveiled the all-new Suzuki Alto — the fifth and smallest member of its acclaimed lineup of world strategic models. The new Suzuki Alto combines eye-catching style and easy urban mobility with great performance in terms of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions, thereby meeting the lifestyle needs of today's motorists and the pressing global need for environmental compatibility. Plus, it is one of the most fun-to-drive city cars available — a great new example of Suzuki's "Way of Life!" philosophy.

As the second model in the second phase of Suzuki's world strategy (a phase that's focused on user-friendliness and delivering expanded possibilities for family members), the new Suzuki Alto offers good levels of comfort and convenience within a modest overall length.

Plus, a design that combines sporty, European-inspired looks with great aerodynamics means the new Suzuki Alto is the most stylish car of its size.

The new Suzuki Alto reflects the unparalleled knowledge of small-cars that has made Suzuki so successful with minivehicles in Japan and compact cars like the Swift all over the world. Suzuki Alto is a definitive response to the need for enjoyable, eco-friendly motoring. Suzuki aims to achieve annual sales of 60,000 units in Europe following a sales launch in spring 2009.

The new Alto is aimed mainly at urban people who want a small car that offers style and enjoyment together with great environmental credentials, and it reflects the ideals of the second phase of Suzuki's world strategy. At the heart of the concept for the new Suzuki Alto is Suzuki's belief that people should be able to enjoy economical, eco-friendly motoring without sacrificing style, comfort, practicality, or performance. Compact dimensions (the new Suzuki Alto is the smallest of Suzuki's world strategic models) play a large part in realising outstanding environmental credentials by keeping weight to a minimum, but without detracting from user-friendliness.

Design, Comfort and Practicality

The new Suzuki Alto has a sporty, solid look that exudes urban energy despite the body's compact dimensions. The design is elegant and beautiful thanks to aerodynamically efficient contours that combine tautness with evocative curviness. It is ideally matched to European tastes and with a drag coefficient of just 0.30 promotes fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions.

The cabin layout apportions most of the space to the front seats but still provides ample space for four adults. Handy storage spaces for small items are located all around the cabin. Notwithstanding the new Alto's compact exterior dimensions, there's a usable amount of luggage space behind the rear seats, and folding down the rear seatback expands the space into a roomy luggage area suited to daily use.

Performance and Environmental Compatibility

The new Suzuki Alto is powered by a three cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine successfully launched as an engine of the Suzuki Splash. This unit is light and compact with low friction characteristics. Maximum power output is 68PS (50kW) with maximum torque of 90Nm. Fuel consumption is low at 62.7 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions are just 103g/km. Standard transmission is a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission (uncommon among one-litre cars) with gate-type shifter is available as an option.

Suspension

The front suspension is of MacPherson strut type and the large, high-rigidity suspension frame is complemented by further strengthening in the strut mounting areas for superior handling. The rear suspension has Suzuki's proprietary 3-link rigid axle design, and incorporates numerous refinements for the new car. The coil springs and dampers were tuned for optimum handling stability through extensive testing on roads in Europe.

Suzuki targeted handling that makes driving enjoyable on urban roads, so drivers enjoy linear response, gentle roll movements, light steering feel, and good absorption of shock and vibration. These benefits reflect the experience Suzuki has gained in motorsport around the world.
The new Suzuki Alto has a minimum turning radius of just 4.5m making it easy to manoeuvre and park in tight spaces.

Safety

To help the driver avoid hazards on the road, the new Suzuki Alto is available with Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which modulates the engine performance and applies the brakes during cornering and under aceleration.

In the unfortunate event of an accident, the new Suzuki Alto's body reflects Suzuki's Total Effective Control Technology (TECT) concept in the form of crushable structures that absorb impact energy, frame members that disperse impact energy away from occupants and a strong cabin structure. Use of high-tensile steel for major body parts means the resulting high level of occupant safety does not add excessive weight to the body.

SRS front, side, and curtain airbags are available to reduce the severity of impacts suffered by occupants in the event of a collision. Energy-absorbing trim materials provide further head protection.

Technical Specifications

    * Engine: Petrol 1.0l
    * Drive system: 2WD
    * Transmission: 5MT/4AT
    * Steering: LHD/RHD
    * Number of doors: 5

    * DIMENSIONS
          o Overall length: 3,500 mm
          o Overall width: 1,600 mm
          o Overall height: 1,470 mm
          o Wheelbase: 2,360 mm
          o Tread
                + Front: 1,405 mm
                + Rear: 1,400 mm

    * CAPACITIES
          o Seating capacity: 4
          o Luggage capacity
                + Max. Volume: 774 l
                + Rear seatback folded (VDA method): 367 l
                + Rear seatback raised (VDA method): 129 l
          o Fuel tank capacity: 35 l

    * ENGINE
          o Type: K10B
          o Number of cylinders: 3
          o Number of valves: 12
          o Piston displacement: 996 cm3
          o Bore x stroke: 73.0 x 79.4 mm
          o Compression ratio: 11.0
          o Maximum output: 68PS (50kW) @ 6,000 rpm
          o Maximum torque: 90 Nm @ 4,800 rpm
          o Fuel distribution: Multipoint injection

    * PERFORMANCE
          o Maximum speed: 155 km/h
          o 0-100 km/h: 14 s
          o Fuel consumption (Combined): 4,5 l/100 km
          o CO2 emissions (Combined): 103 g/km

Lexus ES 350, 2010

2010-11-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

Lexus ES 350, 2010

The Lexus ES 350 debuts revised styling, new luxury amenities and the all-new telematics system,
In its fifth generation, the Lexus ES 350 continues to blur the line between "entry luxury" and "prestige luxury." Revised headlamps, a new grille, new grille surround, chrome body side molding and new front bumper with revised lower intake and integrated fog lamps underscore the car's refined character. Side mirrors now feature integrated turn signals, and the tail lamps are redesigned. Elegant new exterior colors accentuate the distinctive design in the 2010 ES 350.

Renowned Lexus luxury is enhanced by revised steering wheel controls, as well as new wood trim choices. A revised center console offers more storage than before. An array of new user technologies expands navigation capability and music playing options. The updated optional navigation system features improved Voice Command casual-language voice recognition to enhance owner convenience.

The new standard Lexus Memory System controls and stores settings for the driver's seat (except lumbar), outside mirrors and steering wheel. Rain-sensing windshield wipers, previously optional, are now standard.

2 all-new telematics products are available with a complimentary one-year trial subscription. Safety Connect is standard on non-navigation equipped vehicles. Lexus Enform, which automatically comes with Safety Connect, is only available with navigation-equipped vehicles.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

The Lexus ES 350's aluminum 3.5-liter V6 produces 272 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 254 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm. The chain-driven camshafts employ Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds.

The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides a sequential manual shift feature for a more involved driving experience when desired. Shifting strategy adapts to driver input, with rapid kick-down response.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus ES 350 owes its smooth, quiet ride in large part to a rigid unibody structure that allows the four-wheel independent suspension to be tuned to provide responsive handling agility and ultra-smooth ride quality. The low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps minimize wind noise while also helping to maximize highway fuel efficiency. Standard 17 x 7-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a new split five-spoke design carry 215/55R17 all-season tires. A full-size spare wheel/tire is available.

Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control system integrates the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist (BA) safety feature. A new VSC cut-off switch for 2010 is useful if it becomes necessary to extricate the car from deep snow or other difficult conditions, such as mud or sand.

Safety/Security Features

A reinforced front- and rear-structure passenger compartment forms the foundation for passive safety in the Lexus ES 350. In addition to advanced dual-stage front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System includes rear seat-mounted side air bags (previously optional, now standard), side-curtain airbags that extend from the A-pillar to C-pillar and a knee airbag for both the driver and front passenger, for a total of 10 airbags throughout the cabin.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. The multi-information display within the combination meter will show a car icon with the selected following distance.

If, based on a variety of inputs, PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system preemptively retracts the front seat belts and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. Active Braking can automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.

The optional dual-swivel Lexus Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) helps illuminate a turn or curve as the driver steers into it. A medium-to-high speed mode (over 19 mph) allows both the right and left front headlamp bulbs to swivel toward the direction of the turn at the same time.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

Lexus' craftsmanship and attention to detail provide true luxury by design in the Lexus ES 350. Standard leather-trimmed seating is available in three colors. For 2010, the Ultra Luxury Package adds double-contrast stitching for the seats, console and door trim, a feature seen in prestige-luxury models, and perforated, semi-aniline leather.

A one-touch tilt/slide power glass moon roof is standard, as well as a dual-zone automatic climate control system, 10-way power front seats (with standard driver memory) and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.

The standard multi-information display, located in the combination meter, is easy to operate. Its main feature is a trip computer that provides outside temperature, driving range, fuel consumption and average speed readouts. A new Eco Driving indicator helps encourage economical driving. The display also includes an oil maintenance reminder and system warnings.

The standard leather-trimmed steering wheel integrates easy-to-use controls for the audio system, trip computer, and multi-information display, as well as voice control for the available navigation system when so equipped. The standard auto-dimming rear view mirror features an integrated digital compass. Heated exterior mirrors help melt away morning fog or frost, and an illuminated entry system lights the interior foot wells and the exterior with puddle lamps.

The Smart Access key less entry and push-to-start ignition system allows the driver to enter and start the car without needing to remove the access fob from pocket or purse. The standard Home Link transmitter can control compatible garage-door openers and home-security devices.

Convenience details abound throughout the Lexus ES 350, including illuminated front cup holders and an interior lighting system. Using the new Lexus Memory System feature, the driver can now tailor numerous vehicle preferences, including lighting, power windows and moon roof, steering wheel, and door lock control.

Luxury Options

The customer can "layer" luxury in the Lexus ES 350 by adding the Ultra-Luxury Package, or by selecting from a number of standalone options which include heated and ventilated front seats, HID with AFS, and Intuitive Park Assist (IPA). The IPA system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display.

The Ultra-Luxury Package includes a panorama glass roof; perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating (new Black/Saddle color combination for 2010); power rear sunshade; passenger memory; the HID/AFS lighting system; and a wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. Exclusive Liquid Graphite-finish 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels add a distinctive touch.

Interior Design

Built on a 109.3-inch wheelbase, the mid size Lexus ES 350 provides a roomy and inviting interior. The driver and passengers are treated to intelligent, elegant luxury, with touch points that convey quality and controls that respond fluidly.

The high level of Lexus craftsmanship is immediately evident in the Lexus ES 350, with bright, clear Optitrongauges, premium wood, as well as polished metal and leather accents that echo prestige-luxury models. For 2010, Parchment leather replaces Cashmere; new Walnut trim replaces Medium Brown Walnut, and Dark Brown Bird's Eye Maple trim is added.

The Lexus ES 350 offers an all-new telematics system, Lexus Enformwith Safety Connect, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Both the Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response center operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Safety Connect, the cornerstone of the services, is available on both non-navigation and navigation-equipped Lexus ES 350 and offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), and Enhanced Roadside Assistance, which adds GPS data to the already included warranty-based Lexus roadside service.

Lexus Enform, available only on navigation-equipped vehicles, includes all of the Safety Connect features and builds upon them with the premium services of Destination Assist and eDestination. Destination Assist agents are available via the on-board cellular equipment and can help drivers find a specific address, a business by name, or a type of business (e.g., gas station, movie theater, etc.), and even Zagat-rated restaurants, and then send the coordinates to the navigation system for routing. With eDestination, drivers can go online via LexusDrivers.com to save and sort destinations in up to 20 folders, each holding as many as 10 destinations. Then drivers can send the locations—up to 200 at a time—to their vehicle, where they will be available for download into the navigation system. Online, drivers can create personalized location names (e.g., "Favorite sushi," "1 PM Appt," "Kids' doc," etc.) and even list notes about their saved locations, all helping them see exactly the information they choose in the vehicle.

Lexus Insider, a complimentary, opt-in service is also available without a subscription on all Lexus Enform-equipped vehicles. This feature offers in-vehicle audio casts that provide owners access to useful vehicle tips and event information, and insights into exclusive owners' benefits - all designed to further enhance the Lexus experience.

Lexus GS 450h, 2009

2010-11-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

Lexus GS 450h, 2009

The 2009 Lexus GS luxury sport sedan model line includes the V6-powered Lexus GS 350 and the GS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD), the V8-powered Lexus GS 460, and the only gasoline electric hybrid model in the segment, the Lexus GS 450h.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

Optimized for low internal friction, the Lexus GS 350's 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 303 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 274 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. A direct fuel-injection system provides much finer fuel-mixture control to improve both power and fuel efficiency. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) acts on both intake and exhaust valves to further enhance performance through a wide rpm range. A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission allows manual shifting when desired.

The Lexus GS 460's V8 produces 342 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 339 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,100 rpm. The GS 460, like the GS 350, meets the EPA's Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II) certification. Lexus has been setting standards for powertrain smoothness since its inception, and the GS 460's V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission continue that tradition. The transmission, as the six-speed automatic in the Lexus GS 350 models, allows manual shifting for a more engaging driving experience, and to maximize performance in certain driving situations. The GS 460 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, the Lexus GS 350 in 5.7 (5.8 for AWD).

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

The Lexus GS combines proven chassis systems with advanced dynamic handling technology to provide both agile handling and the Lexus trademark smooth ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that's also spirited. A 34.1-ft. turning circle (35.4 ft. for GS 350 AWD) is comparable to that of smaller cars and helps make the GS highly maneuverable.

In all GS models, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help form a powerful safety front. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel to help minimize body dive or sway during hard braking and cornering. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking, and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to activate the ABS, it will apply maximum braking force until pedal pressure is released.

Aluminum-alloy 18-inch wheels are standard on the Lexus GS 460 and available for the rear-wheel-drive Lexus GS 350, which features standard 17-inch wheels. For maximum handling capability, the GS 350 comes standard with 225/50R17 W-rated summer tires. The all-season 17-inch run-flat tires that are standard on the GS 350 AWD model are available on the GS 350 RWD. The Lexus GS 460 is equipped with 245/40R18 Z-rated summer tires or available all-season run-flats.

The GS 350's available all-wheel-drive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.

An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on the Lexus GS 460 and available on the GS 350, provides four settings, including "sport" for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions. The Lexus GS 460 also offers the advanced Active Power Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators. The GS 350 models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control. The system can be disengaged with the "Trac Off" switch when the situation warrants doing so.

In the GS 460, the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system integrates and manages a host of handling technologies, including VSC. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle, and steering control. VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the GS 460 provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the steering gear housing. Also in the GS 460, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) can vary the steering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed maneuverability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. VGRS also provides differential steering control, which helps correct for a delay in steering response - something that occurs in all vehicles - to help enhance driving feel during lane changes and other transitional maneuvers.

The GS 460's Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) is a brake-by-wire system. ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the GS 460's VDIM system to anticipate and help correct skids before they occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in the unlikely event of electronic failure.

Safety/Security Features

The Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 460 and optional for the Lexus GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A Tire Pressure Monitoring system can detect a critical loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver. The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers and alerts the driver accordingly. A steering-input sensor helps to better judge changes in distance to objects.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the GS sedans includes variable-force front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. The GS features standard seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.

The rear back-up camera, available in conjunction with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the GS models can help the driver avoid an accident. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS switches the Adaptive Variable-air Suspension to sport mode for optimal chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. The active-braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are comfortably contoured for support on long trips. Ventilated front seats are standard for the Lexus GS 460 and available for the Lexus GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air, and a standard rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days.

All four windows offer one-touch up-and-down operation with jam protection. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well equipped car.

The standard Lexus audio system features an AM/FM/cassette stereo and a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer. The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.

Luxury Options

Within the ultra-quiet Lexus GS interior, all styles of music come to life with the optional Mark Levinson® Premium Sound system. Featuring 11 channels of amplification with a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The optional Lexus DVD Navigation System allows the driver to enter a destination by voice command. Visual support is greatly enhanced with a central screen featuring a high-resolution 800 x 480 pixel display in 32,000 colors. On-screen details are crisp and clean, and maps and roads are highlighted by 3-D shadow effects. Text display options include English, Spanish and French.

The DVD map database contains more than five million Points of Interest (POI). The database for Chicago, Detroit, Los Angeles, and New York includes a building footprint-display feature that can show graphic representations of buildings and structures to help the driver identify surroundings. System functions include multiple route calculations, route preview, simplified highway junction graphics, and a dual-map screen mode. Bluetooth wireless technology integrates with the navigation system to allow the driver to make hands-free phone calls via its touch-screen control panel. Personal phone books can be transferred via Bluetooth, as well.

Exterior Design

The current generation GS sedans introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS. A sloped, vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps visually connects the current GS sedans with the previous-generation models while signaling the brand's design progression. The lower valance features integrated fog lamps, and a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimize wind noise and maximize highway fuel efficiency.

Interior Design

Ultra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the Lexus GS interior with a lavish yet high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The customer can choose from among three interior leather color combinations: Light Gray leather with Dark Gray Bird's-eye maple wood trim, Cashmere leather with Golden Bird's-eye Maple wood trim, or Black leather with Red Walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim steering wheel and shift knob.

Lexus GS 350, 2009

2010-11-01T21:10:00.000-07:00

Lexus GS 350, 2009

The 2009 Lexus GS luxury sport sedan model line includes the V6-powered Lexus GS 350 and the GS 350 all-wheel drive (AWD), the V8-powered Lexus GS 460, and the only gasoline electric hybrid model in the segment, the Lexus GS 450h.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance

Optimized for low internal friction, the Lexus GS 350's 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 303 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 274 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. A direct fuel-injection system provides much finer fuel-mixture control to improve both power and fuel efficiency. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) acts on both intake and exhaust valves to further enhance performance through a wide rpm range. A smooth-shifting six-speed transmission allows manual shifting when desired.

The Lexus GS 460's V8 produces 342 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 339 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,100 rpm. The GS 460, like the GS 350, meets the EPA's Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II) certification. Lexus has been setting standards for powertrain smoothness since its inception, and the GS 460's V8 and eight-speed automatic transmission continue that tradition. The transmission, as the six-speed automatic in the Lexus GS 350 models, allows manual shifting for a more engaging driving experience, and to maximize performance in certain driving situations. The GS 460 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, the Lexus GS 350 in 5.7 (5.8 for AWD).

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

The Lexus GS combines proven chassis systems with advanced dynamic handling technology to provide both agile handling and the Lexus trademark smooth ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multilink rear suspension virtually eliminate unwanted wheel-angle changes during suspension movement. The result is a natural, confident feel that's also spirited. A 34.1-ft. turning circle (35.4 ft. for GS 350 AWD) is comparable to that of smaller cars and helps make the GS highly maneuverable.

Aluminum-alloy 18-inch wheels are standard on the Lexus GS 460 and available for the rear-wheel-drive Lexus GS 350, which features standard 17-inch wheels. For maximum handling capability, the GS 350 comes standard with 225/50R17 W-rated summer tires. The all-season 17-inch run-flat tires that are standard on the GS 350 AWD model are available on the GS 350 RWD. The Lexus GS 460 is equipped with 245/40R18 Z-rated summer tires or available all-season run-flats.

The GS 350's available all-wheel-drive system helps to enhance handling in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the traditional performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.

An Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, standard on the Lexus GS 460 and available on the GS 350, provides four settings, including "sport" for tighter, more precise control. AVS can automatically select appropriate suspension damping for driving conditions. The Lexus GS 460 also offers the advanced Active Power Stabilizer system that reduces body sway and enhances vehicle control during cornering. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) calculates the force needed to counter excess body sway, which is then applied to the stabilizer bars by the front and rear actuators. The GS 350 models are equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control. The system can be disengaged with the "Trac Off" switch when the situation warrants doing so.

In the GS 460, the Lexus Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system integrates and manages a host of handling technologies, including VSC. Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle, and steering control. VDIM integration helps to provide precise management for the Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the GS 460 provides precise electric power assist using a DC motor built into the steering gear housing. Also in the GS 460, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) can vary the steering from 2.7 turns lock-to-lock for low-speed maneuverability to a slower 3.2 turns lock-to-lock for highway-speed stability. VGRS also provides differential steering control, which helps correct for a delay in steering response - something that occurs in all vehicles - to help enhance driving feel during lane changes and other transitional maneuvers.

The GS 460's Electronically Controlled Brakes (ECB) is a brake-by-wire system. ECB translates brake pedal pressure into electric signals that, via computer control, help provide precise and optimized braking. Electronic control provides quick brake response when needed, helping the GS 460's VDIM system to anticipate and help correct skids before they occur. The ECB system is backed by conventional hydraulic brake control in the unlikely event of electronic failure.

Safety/Security Features

The Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), standard on the GS 460 and optional for the Lexus GS 350, helps illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. A Tire Pressure Monitoring system can detect a critical loss in pressure in one or more tires and alert the driver. The available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers and alerts the driver accordingly. A steering-input sensor helps to better judge changes in distance to objects.

The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the GS sedans includes variable-force front airbags for both the driver and front passenger. The GS features standard seat-mounted side airbags for the front seats, knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, and front and rear side-curtain airbags.

The rear back-up camera, available in conjunction with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation screen when the vehicle is in reverse gear.

The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) in the GS models can help the driver avoid an accident. A millimeter-wave radar sensor helps detect obstacles in front of the car, while vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw-rate inputs help to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS switches the Adaptive Variable-air Suspension to sport mode for optimal chassis response, preemptively retracts front seat belts, and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal. The active-braking feature will automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3 g if the driver fails to react to system warnings.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

The standard Regency leather-trimmed, heated, 10-way power front seats (perforated leather trim on GS 460) are comfortably contoured for support on long trips. Ventilated front seats are standard for the Lexus GS 460 and available for the Lexus GS 350. A power-tilt and telescopic steering wheel helps ensure a comfortable driving position. The standard dual-zone climate-control system filters the air, and a standard rear power sunshade adds to passenger comfort on warm days.

All four windows one-touch up-and-down operation with jam protection. Both electrochromic auto-dimming side mirrors are power-retractable and feature automatic tilt-down to aid in parking when reverse gear is selected. A power trunk closer provides an added convenience on this extremely well equipped car.

The standard Lexus audio system features an AM/FM/cassette stereo and a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer. The system plays through 10 premium speakers while an Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.

Luxury Options

Within the ultra-quiet Lexus GS interior, all styles of music come to life with the optional Mark Levinson® Premium Sound system. Featuring 11 channels of amplification with a total of 330 watts playing through 14 speakers, the system allows users to play both CDs and DVDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The optional Lexus DVD Navigation System allows the driver to enter a destination by voice command. Visual support is greatly enhanced with a central screen featuring a high-resolution 800 x 480 pixel display in 32,000 colors. On-screen details are crisp and clean, and maps and roads are highlighted by 3-D shadow effects. Text display options include English, Spanish and French.

Exterior Design

The current generation GS sedans introduced the brand's L-finesse design language. A 112.2-inch wheelbase, long hood, pulled-back cabin and short rear deck create a confident, powerful stance for the GS. A sloped, vertical grille surrounded by four independent headlamps visually connects the current GS sedans with the previous-generation models while signaling the brand's design progression. The lower valance features integrated fog lamps, and a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd) helps to minimize wind noise and maximize highway fuel efficiency.

Interior Design

Ultra-premium wood, polished-metal accents and leather trim endow the Lexus GS interior with a lavish yet high-precision feel. Touch points convey quality and controls that respond fluidly. The customer can choose from among three interior leather color combinations: Light Gray leather with Dark Gray Bird's-eye maple wood trim, Cashmere leather with Golden Bird's-eye Maple wood trim, or Black leather with Red Walnut wood trim. Each combination includes a matching wood and leather-trim steering wheel and shift knob.

Lexus designers strive to keep controls simple and intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition allow the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-control systems are easy to understand and operate. The unique instrument panel lighting system relies on variable-transparency glass to minimize reflections from the gauge faces and to help optimize visibility.

Honda Accord EX-L Sedan, 2008

2010-10-15T22:37:00.000-07:00

Honda Accord EX-L Sedan, 2008

The all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.
The fun-to-drive character and innovative feel that has always distinguished the Accord."

Honda Accord EX-L Sedan
Also new for Accord, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering(ACE) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), also known as Electronic Stability Control; side-curtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes and more.

The Accord in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V-6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 6MT).

Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Sedan LX and plus-featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Sedan EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord Sedan EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Coupe LX-S (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Coupe EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord Coupe EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine).

Interior
Premium quality with a simple, modern and spacious design describes the philosophy behind the Accord's interior. The larger Accord Sedan total interior volume of 120.0 cubic feet (+3.3 cubic feet compared to 2007) moves the EPA classification from the midsize sedan class to the large sedan class. The additional space is intended to provide "equal" seating comfort for front and rear passengers. Rear legroom of 37.2 inches (+0.4 inches) approaches the impressive second row legroom of the Honda Pilot SUV (37.4 inches). The wider interior (+1.5 inches) allows the front seats to be positioned farther apart to allow for a wide center console more commonly associated with the finest luxury vehicles.

The Accord interior is designed for a dynamic, intuitive and upscale presence, starting with an easy-to-read information display on every vehicle. A zone styling approach separates operation-related instruments (top) and information-related instruments (lower). At night, the controls are further separated by color to distinguish between climate controls (aqua green) and audio controls (white). Classically-styled gauges for the speedometer and tachometer are perfectly round (instead of being truncated at the bottom). Steering wheel audio controls are standard on every Accord. Careful attention was paid to the symmetry of the exterior and interior of the vehicle - including sight lines related to the dashboard height and the visual presence of the hood to the driver.

Redesigned front bucket seats are larger, and feature substantial lateral support to complement the Accord's sporting side. The fold-down lockable rear seatback increases cargo-carrying versatility; the sedan includes a lockable pass-through.

Three impressive audio systems are - all with MP3/Windows Media® Audio (WMA) playback capability and an auxiliary input jack. The standard system features 160 watts, a single-disc CD player and six speakers. A Radio Data System (RDS) displays information broadcast by participating radio stations that often includes call letters, station type and programming information.

The Accord Sedan EX and Coupe LX-S add a 6-disc in-dash changer. The premium audio system, which comes standard on Accord EX Coupe and Sedan EX-L models, has a six-disc CD changer, 270 watts total amplification and seven speakers including an 8-inch subwoofer. XM® Satellite Radio is standard equipment on all Accord EX-L models.

Exterior
Intended to convey a prestigious presence, the Accord Sedan embraces a traditional three-box shape that emphasizes both a dynamic and athletic feel with the sophistication of a timeless sedan form. Dimensionally, the Accord Sedan's overall length of 194.1 inches (4-cylinder models, V-6 models add 0.2 inches for front spoiler lip) is 3.0 inches longer than the 2007 model. The width of 72.7 inches is 1.1 inches wider, and the height of 58.1 inches is 0.9 inches taller. Even though the size is larger in every dimension, the vehicle's torsional rigidity has increased by 20 percent as a result of advanced body construction that uses 48 percent high-tensile steel - the most high-tensile steel by volume of any Accord to date. A significant benefit to the advanced body construction is that total vehicle weight increased only by approximately 5 percent despite the larger size, greater rigidity and added features.

The Accord Coupe styling radically breaks from the sedan with a uniquely aggressive image. Its long hood, sleek roofline and muscular lines suggest power and a heightened agility compared to the sedan. Dimensionally, the Accord Coupe's overall length of 190.9 inches is 3.2 inches longer than 2007 model, its width of 72.8 inches is 1.2 inches wider, and its height of 56.4 inches is 0.6 (LX-S) to 0.7 (EX, EX-L) inches higher. Compared to the 2008 Accord Sedan, the Accord Coupe is 3.2 inches shorter in length, 1.7 inches shorter in height and 0.1-inch wider.

Chassis
A performance-inspired double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension are designed to provide world-class chassis dynamics. The Accord Sedan wheelbase of 110.2 inches is 2.3 inches longer than the 2007 model, while the 62.2-inch front/rear track is 1.1 and 1.0 inches wider, respectively. The Accord Coupe wheelbase of 107.9 inches is 2.8 inches longer than the 2007 model (track is identical to sedan). Ultimately, the suspension design with wider tire sizes, standard ABS and standard Vehicle Stability Assist is intended to enhance driver confidence and handling performance.

The 2008 Accord Sedan also comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, or16- or 17-inch aluminum wheels depending on model. (The Accord Coupe has 17-inch aluminum wheels standard, with 18-inch aluminum wheels available on the Coupe V-6). The 17-inch wheels are the first for a four-cylinder Accord and the Coupe's available 18-inch wheels are the largest ever for a Honda car.

Powertrain
All 2008 Accord engines deliver increased horsepower across the board, along with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. In total, these power plants represent the most powerful and advanced technologies of any Accord in history, and are also projected to deliver excellent real-world fuel economy performance. All engines only require regular unleaded fuel.

Powertrain highlights include:
* 2.4-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine (Sedan LX, LX-P)
o 177 horsepower at 6500 rpm, 161 lb-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm
o 5-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual transmission
o Estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/31 mpg City/Highway (Sedan, Automatic)
o PZEV or ULEV-2 emissions
* Accord Sedan EX, EX-L; Coupe LX-S, EX, EX-L includes:
o High-flow exhaust system with variable-valve silencer
o 190 horsepower at 7000 rpm, 162 lb-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm
* 3.5-liter, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine (Sedan EX V-6, EX-L V-6; Coupe EX-L V-6: 5AT)
o 268 horsepower at 6200 rpm, 248 lb-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm
o 5-speed automatic transmission
o V CM for improved fuel efficiency
o Estimated EPA mileage of 19/29 mpg City/Highway (Sedan)
o PZEV or ULEV-2 emissions
* 3.5-liter, SOHC, VTEC V-6 engine (Coupe EX-L V-6: 6MT)
o 268 horsepower at 6200 rpm, 248 lb-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm
o 6-speed manual transmission
o VTEC provides two intake cam profiles for increased low- and mid-range torque
o Estimated EPA mileage of 17/25 mpg City/Highway
o ULEV-2 emissions

Safety
Through a comprehensive and evolving approach to vehicle safety, Honda seeks to provide a high level of occupant and pedestrian protection in all of its cars and trucks, regardless of size or price, as well as increased compatibility with other vehicles as part of the Safety for Everyone initiative introduced in 2003. Consistent with the Safety for Everyone initiative, every 2008 Accord integrates sophisticated safety technology that includes the ACE body structure; side curtain airbags; driver's and front passenger's dual-chamber side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and dual-stage, dual-threshold driver's and front passenger's airbags (SRS).

The Accord has active front seat head restraints that are designed to help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. Standard active safety features include VSA, a four-wheel disc anti-lock brake system (ABS) with brake assist and electronic brake distribution (EBD), front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system and load limiters, and a pedestrian safety design in the front of the vehicle. Passenger-side seatbelt reminders and daytime running lights are also standard equipment.

History
The Honda Accord was first Japanese-nameplate car assembled in the United States and calendar year 2007 represents the 25th anniversary of its manufacture here. The first Japanese-built Accord was introduced as a 1976 model, and by 1982 it was being manufactured both in Japan and in a brand-new automobile assembly plant in Marysville, Ohio. The success of the Accord set a path for Honda, and conclusively proved that assembling cars in America was a viable proposition. Seven more Accord generations followed, leading to the eighth-generation 2008 Accord.

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

2010-10-15T22:31:00.000-07:00

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics.
The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp "folded" edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with 'H' logo.

The Concept model's fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants' heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design - a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. At its base, further distinction is provided by a 'floating' LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated 'Small Hybrid Sports' name plate.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.
Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.
The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door mirrors.

Subaru Impreza 5-Door, 2008

2010-10-15T22:25:00.001-07:00

Subaru Impreza 5-Door, 2008

Fuji Heavy Industries Inc. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, announced the unveiling of its all new Subaru Impreza (U.S. specifications) at the New York International Auto Show. The third-generation Impreza will hit the market around the world starting this summer.

Developed around the product concept of new, more refined designs for comfort, the latest Impreza incorporates sophisticated styling and rich interior design, roominess and space, and outstanding comfort and utility, while offering a pleasant and safe ride enhanced by Subaru Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) with the Horizontally-Opposed engine.

Advanced core mechanism
The new Impreza showcases a redesigned chassis, body construction and drivetrain, as well as substantially improved overall performance, under the theme "Only Subaru can deliver such attractive performance and values."1 It also provides a pleasant ride with ease of handling and integrates performance with advanced safety and environmental considerations.

FHI recently set forth a new theme for Subaru cars that stipulates Subaru's goal: Subaru offers a comfortable, pleasant drive for the driver and passengers; provides peace of mind and reliability; and extends convenience, utility and functionality.

Chassis
The newly designed double-wishbone rear suspension effectively absorbs shocks from road surfaces, ensuring high levels of ride comfort and agile handling.
The lower center of gravity, enabled by the Boxer engine, has been enhanced by mounting the engine slightly lower in the chassis, thereby further improving stability.
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), available on a wider grade range of the Impreza lineup, increases active safety.

Body construction
Additional use of high tension steel and reinforced joints has greatly improved rigidity.
Streamlined body construction, while ensuring safety, makes weight reduction possible, which in turn improves fuel economy and maneuverability.

Engines and transmissions
The 2.5-liter Boxer engine features ideal power output characteristics under a practical range of driving speeds through improved mid- to low-end torque. The engine has also been modified to improve emissions and fuel efficiency.
The 2.5-liter SOHC normally aspirated engine adopts a new intake port and other design changes that make improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency possible. Improved emissions were realized by a new catalyst system that optimizes catalyst efficiency.
Incorporating a newly designed intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger, the 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged engine delivers improved mid to low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
Transmissions, both manual and automatic, were modified for faster, more responsive shifting and better maneuverability.

Safety
Advancing the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure with front and rear crumple zones, the new Impreza has realized high levels of safety and crash worthiness.
All models are equipped with dual SRS airbags, side SRS airbags, and curtain airbags.
A collapsible safety pedal is available on all models to reduce the risk to feet in accidents.

Refined styling and elegant interior design
The new Impreza combines sporty styling with ample interior space and integrates functionality with elegance.

Exterior design
Refined styling is highlighted by a perfectly proportioned body, well calculated panel curves that reflect light and shadow in harmony, and quality details.

Sweeping character lines on both sides express a sense of speed and individuality.
A sporty image is underscored by projecting front fenders and rear quarters.
Projector lamps, used in the headlights, give a dynamic three-dimensional appearance.

Subaru Forester, 2008

2010-10-15T22:18:00.000-07:00

Subaru Forester, 2008

The new Forester has realized ideal proportions that provide ample interior space and offer improved utility without substantially enlarging the body size.

Compared to the previous model, the new Forester is 110 mm taller (excluding the roof rail) and 45 mm wider, and its wheelbase has been expanded by 90 mm, increasing interior space and improving riding comfort. On the other hand, the overall distance between the ends of the right and left door mirrors has been shortened by 10 mm through mirror position and design changes. Also, the minimum turning radius was made shorter by 0.1 meter for zippy handling.

Off-road capability is further improved by optimization of approach and departure angles, coupled with a generous 225-mm ground clearance.

The double-wishbone rear suspension makes room for a deeper and wider luggage compartment. This enhances the utility of this car that already features cargo area tie-down hooks and a DC12V/120W power outlet, as well as a push button switch for folding down the rear seatbacks.

Larger door openings, which are enabled through new sash construction, afford improved ingress and egress, and the rear doors open 75 degrees to allow for better rear seat access.

Through the enhancement of body rigidity, less road noise reaches the interior of the car. All door openings are sealed with double-layered weather stripping placed along the door trim for the optimal pressure to tightly seal the doors and ensure a quieter ride.

The multi-functional center console provides a spacious compartment that can accommodate an A4-size notebook PC and a purse of equivalent size. It also incorporates a removable tray that can be used to hold portable media players and cell phones. The console compartment has a sliding lid that is cushioned on top to serve as an armrest.
A retractable rear tray with a cup holder is installed between the rear seats, further elevating rear passenger comfort.

Exterior design
Streamlined, yet sculpted styling evokes images of powerful, well defined muscles carved out of stone.
Sharply defined character lines running from the sides of headlights to the tail lights, combined with boxed front fenders and projected rear quarter panels, accentuate a more pronounced SUV profile.

The center of the redesigned front grill is metallic gray in color, making a sharp yet elegant contrast to its chrome-plated contours.
Headlamps are chrome-plated on the inside to project the light outward evenly. Rear lights are clustered and designed to highlight a luminous and translucent look in the rear styling.
17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with distinctively sculptured spokes emphasize the vehicle's commanding presence and high quality. 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels also feature sharp lines of spokes, expressing high quality and smartness.

Interior design
Decorative insets with a brushed aluminum-look flow from the center panel of the dashboard to the door trim, adding spaciousness and airiness in the interior and stressing sportiness in the cockpit. Rich and refined interior design is accentuated by the center panel, which combines wood and metal finishes, as well as by the door trim, embellished with metal-finish panels for window and door switches.

The vehicle information display, which constantly shows outside temperature, average mileage and time on the digital clock, as well as a navigation screen and audio display, are placed nearer the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality.
The front seat cushions employ highly resilient urethane materials that effectively absorb vibration during a drive. In addition, newly developed seatback springs firmly support the driver's hips and back to maintain the optimal driving position.

Drivetrain
An expanded ground clearance further improves the off-road capability of the vehicle. The raising of the clearance does not alter the low center of gravity that is attained by mounting the engine low in the vehicle, thereby securing outstanding vehicle stability.

4-speed AT models are equipped with the Sportshift gear selection. By optimizing the final gear ratio and torque convertor characteristics, as well as through reducing friction among part assemblies, driving performance and fuel economy has been improved. The N Control System on AT models automatically shifts the transmission back to neutral from driving positions after the brake pedal is depressed for some time. Gear shift operation has also been enhanced by the redesigned shift lever positions and the use of roller bearings.

The SI-Dive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system on the 2.0XT model offers three different modes of driving for the driver to enjoy: Intelligent; Sport; and Sport Sharp.
Gear ratios on MT models, from the second through the five-speed, as well as the final drive gear ratio, have been modified to improve driving performance and fuel economy. Reducing friction inside the transmission also contributes to better gear shift operation on MT models.

The Active Torque Split AWD system is mounted on AT models. MT models come with the center differential AWD system with viscous LSD (limited slip differential). Both AWD systems distribute optimal power to the wheels with the firm grip and traction, providing unrivalled vehicle stability.
The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) is standards on all models. Fed by information gathered by sensors that monitor vehicle and road conditions, the VDC coordinates the engine, transmission, and brakes in order to recover the vehicle's position should unstable movements occur on a slippery road. 2.0-L DOHC engines on the 2.0X and 2.0XS
Fuel economy has been improved with the redesigned DOHC cylinder head, as well as through optimization of the compression ratio and reduction of the volume of the combustion chamber.

Low-end and mid-range torque is improved, while better fuel economy and lower gas emissions are achieved, primarily through design changes in the engine that generate a stronger tumble gas flow and raise gas intake efficiency.

The use of AVCS contributes to higher power output, while fuel economy is also achieved by improving combustion efficiency through the optimized timing of valve openings and closings.
A design change in the cooling water channel around the spark plug further prevents engine knocking and also helps improve low-end and mid-range torque output.

With the optimization of the diameter and length of the intake manifold, and the adoption of the equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system, the engine's intake and exhaust performance has been elevated.

Two catalytic convertors have been placed in tandem. The layout enables the convertors to quickly heat up, which facilitates catalytic activation during engine startup and improves on emission reduction efficiency.
The twin mufflers expand the muffler capacity, bringing noise levels down even lower and reducing exhaust back pressure.

2.0-L DOHC Turbo engine

A newly developed DOHC cylinder head is used in this engine. The intake port and the combustion chamber have been redesigned to reduce residual gasses, thus raising combustion efficiency.
By using a resin-based intake manifold, the inner walls of the manifold are smooth and less resistant to the intake flow. The weight is also reduced by 30% compared to the earlier manifold.
A design change in the cooling water channel around the spark plug further prevents engine knocking and also helps improve low-end and mid-range torque output.

The injector nozzle has been redesigned to atomize fuel and finely disperse it into the combustion chamber for improved combustion. This also helps reduce harmful substances in emissions.
Also adopted is a secondary air system that forces air into the exhaust port to burn out any gasoline remaining in it. The system helps eliminate harmful substances when the powertrain is still cool, and it promotes early activation of catalytic converters.

The twin mufflers expand the muffler capacity, bringing noise levels down even lower and reducing exhaust back pressure.

Isuzu Pickup, 2008

2010-10-15T22:14:00.000-07:00

Isuzu Pickup, 2008

The Isuzu Pickups made their debut in 2006, and the crew cab model was quickly nominated as "Truck of the Year" by two different magazines, "Truck of Texas" and "Four Wheeler of the Year." Intelli Choice named the 2006 models a "Smart Choice" in ten different ownership-cost categories, and singled out the 2006 i-280 Extended Cab S as the "Top Winner" in its class for lowest repair costs.

For 2007, the i-280 Extended Cab 4x2 becomes the i-290, and the i-350 Crew Cab 4x4 is renamed the i-370. Trim levels remain unchanged: the i-290 is available in base S trim, with Preferred Equipment, LS and Luxury packages optional, and the i-370 is available in LS or optional Limited trim. Both vehicles get larger, more powerful engines.

The changes for the 2007 model year:

* 2.9-liter inline four-cylinder engine replaces 2.8-liter, increasing horsepower to 185 hp (vs. 175) and torque to 190 ft.-lbs. (vs. 185)
* 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder engine replaces 3.5-liter, increasing horsepower to 242 hp (from 220) and torque to 242 ft.-lbs. (vs. 225)
* Base i-290 S available with automatic transmission as well as manual transmission
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System added as standard equipment on all models
* 3.73 rear axle ratio added on manual transmission models (replaces 3.42 rear axle ratio)
* Towing capacity of manual transmission models increases from 1,700 to 2,100 lbs.
* Pacific Blue exterior color added
* Deep Crimson Metallic replaces Red Rock Metallic exterior color
* Bering Blue Metallic replaces Adriatic Blue Metallic exterior color
* Ebony interior trim replaces Very Dark Pewter (LS, Luxury and Limited)
* Chrome accents added to HVAC lever, gauges, and speaker surrounds (LS, Luxury and Limited)
* Chrome accents to be added mid-year to interior door handles and locks (LS, Luxury and Limited
* Map lights deleted from inside rear view mirror

Isuzu Ascender, 2007

2010-10-15T22:08:00.000-07:00

Isuzu Ascender, 2007

Intelli Choice named the 2006 Ascender 5-Passenger a "Top Winner" in its class for both lowest fuel cost and lowest operating cost, and a "Smart Choice" in eight other categories. Isuzu's flagship SUV returns for 2007, sized "just right" to offer plenty of room for five passengers, and with the multiple award-winning 4.2-liter inline six- cylinder engine under its hood.

Changes include the following:

* Tire Pressure Monitoring System added as standard equipment on all models
* Bering Blue Metallic replaces Adriatic Blue Metallic
* Storm Gray Metallic replaces Graphite Gray Metallic
* Six-spoke machined-finish alloy wheels replace painted wheels as standard equipment
* OnStar communication system discontinued as an available option
* 7-Passenger model discontinued
* Trim levels are unchanged. Both 2WD and 4WD models are available in base S trim and offer optional Preferred Equipment, LS, Leather and Luxury packages.

Dacia Logan, 2009

2010-10-15T22:01:00.000-07:00

Dacia Logan, 2009

Four years after the release of the first Logan, Dacia introduces 'New Logan'. The latest version of this celebrated three-volume saloon builds on the same strengths that forged the success of its predecessor, including unbeatable value for money in terms of performance and equipment, plus outstanding cabin space and exceptional reliability. New Dacia Logan goes even further, however, and features a more contemporary design, as well as a more attractive and more comfortable interior which mirrors the renewal of Dacia as a generous, clever brand.

More contemporary looks
New Dacia Logan stands out as a modern saloon with more contemporary exterior lines which reflect its robust, quality build. The grille, which first appeared on Dacia Sandero, is bigger and features the brand's new logo, plus a chrome upper trim as standard (except entry level version). The new front bumper is flush with the bodywork for a more integrated, harmonious feel, while the headlights are bigger and the fog lamps come with elegant carbon colour surrounds (depending on version).

The rear design of New Dacia Logan has been updated, too. The design of the new boot lid, which can be trimmed with a lower chrome strip, is more streamlined and its lines have been carried over to the revised rear lights. The rear bumper, too, is now flush with the bodywork and incorporates reflectors and a towing hook complete with concealing cap.

An even more pleasing interior
New Dacia Logan sets out to be even more appealing than ever. The new dashboard, which first appeared on Dacia Sandero, is modern and functional, while the design of the door panels also contributes to the cabin's modern feel thanks to their more practical pull handles and elegant trimming (depending on version). The upgrade in range has seen the introduction of two finishes for New Dacia Logan's dashboard, plus a choice of four upholsteries (depending on countries).

Drivers will appreciate the practical controls, and special care has gone into ensuring that all dashboard information is easy to read. The driving environment itself has been made even more comfortable and driverfriendly thanks to a new driver's seat adjustment control (depending on version) and a height-adjustable steering column (depending on version). Rear visibility has been improved through the fitment of a comma-type central rear headrest and large format door mirrors. These have been carried over from Dacia Logan MCV and are standard equipment on New Dacia Logan.

An exceptionally roomy interior
New Dacia Logan's generous dimensions ensure outstanding cabin space which continues to be unmatched in the three-volume saloon category of the B-Entry segment. Indeed, its size is more akin to C-segment norms, since the newcomer's overall length has been increased to 4,290mm (up 40mm compared with the previous version Logan), while its width is 1,740mm. Cabin space is one of New Dacia Logan's most salient features and three tall passengers (more than 1.90m in height) can be accommodated comfortably in the rear thanks to rear headroom of 873mm. Rear shoulder room is a remarkable 1,428mm too, a figure more readily associated with larger saloons. Last but by no means least, the boot volume of 510 litres is unequalled by any of New Dacia Logan's rivals in its category and the boot layout itself permits loads of very different shapes and sizes to be carried with ease.

The accent on safety
New Dacia Logan features the same safety features and equipment that enabled the model to achieve a threestar Euro NCAP crash test rating.

New Dacia Logan can be equipped with the latest generation Bosch 8.1 ABS complete with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA), a new feature which debuted on Dacia Sandero. The latter detects when the driver brakes in an emergency situation and acts on the hydraulic circuit to increase the effectiveness of the ABS by applying maximum pressure the instant the driver hits the brakes.

Front and rear tracks of New Dacia Logan have been widened 7mm either side, which reinforces the roadholding capabilities of the vehicle.

On the passive safety front, New Dacia Logan features a new honeycomb structure for the dashboard which reduces the severity of impact to the knees. In addition to the materials it employs, the dashboard's very design takes safety into account thanks to the curves of its lower section which match the form of the tibia, enabling impact loads to be spread out evenly in case of contact. The driver and front passenger also benefit from further lower limb protection thanks to underfoot padding.

All New Dacia Logan's seats are equipped with three-point seatbelts and headrests, while the new car is delivered as standard with two controlled-deflation airbags (depending on countries), driver and front passenger, the pressure of which diminishes following deployment in order to limit the load applied to occupants.

A comprehensive range of proven powerplants
New Dacia Logan comes with the same proven petrol engines and diesel engine that have contributed to the Dacia range's success.

The 1.4 MPI 75hp, 1.6 MPI 90hp and 1.6 16V 105hp all comply with the criteria of cost, robustness and ease of maintenance that are a feature of the Dacia brand. They combine generous torque from low revs with thrifty fuel consumption: 7.0, 7.2 and 7.1 litres/100km respectively.

The 1.5 dCi stands out as a benchmark in the diesel engine field thanks to the use of such advanced technologies as second-generation common-rail direct injection which delivers both high performance and extremely low fuel consumption. The 1.5 dCi is available in 70hp form and a punchier 85hp version, while CO2 emissions of 120g/km point to the 1.5 dCi 70hp and 1.5 dCi 85hp engines' ecological credentials.

Dacia Duster Concept, 2009

2010-10-15T21:52:00.000-07:00

Dacia Duster Concept, 2009

Dacia Duster Concept - Dacia's first concept crossover - is proud to be different. Seen from the driver's side, it is visibly a sporting coupé, yet passengers entering from the other side will see it as an MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) with a traditionally opening front door and rear-hinged rear door which suggest plush travelling refinement.

Dacia Duster Concept's height of 1.49 metres, short front and rear overhangs (65cm and 80cm respectively), generous wheelbase (2.80m) and compact volumes (4.25m long, 1.64m wide) exude an overriding sense of robustness and sports appeal.

The front end features a broad bumper with two horizontal air-intake slits that suggest power. The grille features evident Dacia styling cues and is flanked by headlamps which wrap over the front wings to form a tapering line of light that stretches rearward towards the doors.

Viewed from the side, the clear-cut lines of the wheel arches and tall doors reinforce the impression that Dacia Duster Concept sits squarely on the road. The Anthracite Grey bodywork and extensive one-piece glazed sweep - made possible by the absence of a central pillar - highlights the styling of the sides which are unmistakably reminiscent of Dacia Duster Concept's graphic identity.

At the rear, the engraved Dacia logo further emphasizes the concept car's robust, dependable credentials.

Like Logan, Dacia Duster Concept is just 4.25 metres long, and its inherent agility ensures that it is perfectly at home in the urban jungle. Meanwhile, its 21-inch, five-spoke aluminium alloy wheels, exterior mirrors positioned on the window surround and trapezoidal aluminium exhaust tailpipes are telltale signs of its sporting pedigree.

Special care has gone into Dacia Duster Concept's aerodynamic efficiency (Cd: 0.30) and the fluid lines of the body sides enable air to flow freely along the vehicle's flanks before being jettisoned through the rear lights. The aerodynamic, wing-like forms of the roof-mounted direction indicators also channel airflow towards the rear. The sum of all this work has naturally been beneficial to fuel consumption, and Dacia Duster Concept stands out as a particularly environmentally-respectful crossover. Despite its performance potential, the particulate filterequipped 1.5 dCi 105hp engine (77kW) emits just 139g of CO2/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100km.

A CROSSOVER WITH DACIA HALLMARKS

This futuristic crossover showcases the brand's core values - namely simplicity, robustness and authenticity - in a surprising form, yet Dacia's hallmark ingenuity and generosity are immediately apparent in the way designers have approached Dacia Duster Concept's cabin.

The concept car's two-tone chocolate and blue interior exudes a sense of well-being and conviviality. The fully glazed roof floods the cabin with light, while the enveloping forms of the staggered slim-line front seats provide first class comfort and support. The driver's seat is incorporated in a structure which extends all the way from the sill to the centre console, forming a sculptural, one-piece ensemble that echoes the exterior's sporty appeal.

Dacia Duster Concept is an adaptable, modular concept car. The four-seat 'daily driver' layout can be swiftly converted into a leisure configuration in a matter of seconds. The passenger seat slides underneath the driver's seat on rails concealed in the floor to leave just one front seat and consequently free up a total carrying volume of two cubic metres. Thanks to a recess in the floor and a strap located under the dashboard, this space can be used to carry a trials mountain bike.

Dimensions
* Length: 4,250 mm
* Width: 1,640 mm
* Height: 1,495 mm
* Overall width, doors open: 4,285 mm
* Wheelbase: 2,804 mm
* Front track: 1,637 mm
* Rear track: 1,640 mm
* Unladen weight: 1,300 kg
* Boot volume: 470 dm3 (VDA)

Technical data
* Engine type: dCi 105
* Maximum power: 105 hp (77 kW)
* Maximum torque: 240 Nm at 2,000rpm
* 0-100 km/h: 9.6 s
* CO2 emissions: 139g/km
* Combined cycle fuel consumption: equivalent to 5.3 litres/100km
* Transmission: Manual six-speed gearbox
* Tyres: 245/35 ZR21
* Wheels: 21-inch diameter wheels

Scion tC Release Series 1.0, 2005

2010-09-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

Scion tC Release Series 1.0, 2005

The Scion tC is a sports compact automobile introduced by Toyota in 2004 as a concept vehicle under its recently introduced Scion brand name. The Scion tC was designed to appeal to the Generation Y market and get them locked into the Toyota brand before any other car manufacturer could have a chance. They hoped to do so by making standard features numerous and optional features extremely easy to add.

The Scion tC uses the chassis of the Avensis which is sold in the European market, and the Camry's 2.4 L 2AZ-FE I4 engine. Its low price (base MSRP of US$16,715 for the 2006 model) is a major feature, as well as the pure pricing marketing style that Toyota has adopted.

The name tC does not fit in with its stablemates the xA and xB because the name xC has already been taken by Volvo for its XC70 and XC90 models. According to Scion tC stands for "Touring Coupe."

Specifications

Engine: Double overhead cam (DOHC) 16-valve VVT-i 2.4 L 4-cylinder
Power: 160hp (119 kW) @ 5700 rpm
Torque: 163 ft·lbf (221 N·m) @ 4000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or available 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission
Highway fuel economy/consumption: 35-30 mi/U.S. gal (7.8 L/100 km) (automatic); 34-29 mi/U.S. gal (8.1 L/100 km) (manual)
City fuel economy/consumption: 29-23 mi/U.S. gal (10.7 L/100 km) (automatic); 28-22 mi/U.S. gal (10.7 L/100 km) (manual)
Fuel tank: 14.5 gal (54.9 L)
Brakes: 4-wheel anti-lock braking system employing disc brakes on both the front and rear
Curb weight: 2,970 lb (1,347 kg) (automatic); 2,905 lb (1,318 kg) (manual)
Displacement: 2382 CC

Scion t2B Concept, 2005

2010-09-05T08:24:00.001-07:00

Scion t2B Concept, 2005

The t2B is a concept car from Scion, designed by Calty Design (Toyota's design studio in California) and built by Five Axis Models in Huntington Beach, California. It debuted at the 2005 New York Auto Show. Its name stands for Tall 2 Box. It appears rather like a mini-van, with 2 rows of bench seats, although the exterior is similar to the xB. On the passenger side there is 1 automatic sliding door. The driver side has doors that open 180 degrees, the rear door being a suicide door. The idea of the t2B is to be a social and entertainment enigma to the occupants.

Scion 5 Axis Widebody DJ xB, 2005

2010-09-05T08:19:00.001-07:00

Scion 5 Axis Widebody DJ xB, 2005

The Scion xB is the American-market name given to the subcompact Toyota bB. It is a small wagon based on the Toyota Yaris platform. The xB was one of two models in the lineup of Toyota's US-exclusive Scion division present at the brand's 2004 launch (the other was the xA, based on the Toyota ist). Both cars feature the 1NZ-FE engine, rated at 108 hp (81 kW) at 6000 rpm and 105 lb-ft of torque at 4200 rpm.

The Toyota bB was an established model in Japan before the Scion xB version was introduced to the US.

Scion Marketing
The Scion xB's marketing is aimed at Generation Y, Americans born in 1978 or later. The group of car buyers is extremely important to manufacturers due to their large numbers (78 million) and their differing perceptions and demands of the vehicles they drive.

Though Toyota expected the xA to sell better than the xB, the reverse proved to be true, with the xB outselling its brother 2 to 1, possibly due to the xB's distinctive styling, and the xB's unique combination of van-like cargo and passenger space with a very compact size.
Differences between the xB and the bB
Besides the obvious change from right to left-hand drive, the front passenger area has changed significantly. The bB has a front bench seat and a column-mounted shifter for the automatic transmission. The xB, on the other hand, has 2 front bucket seats and a shifter mounted on the floor.

The drive trains also differ. The bB with either the 1.3 L 2NZ-FE engine or the 1.5 L 1NZ-FE, mated exclusively to a 4-speed automatic transmission with available all-wheel drive. The xB is only with the 1NZ-FE, but offers both a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. All-wheel drive is not offered on the xB.

The Toyota bB does not have a spare tire. On the Scion xB, a compact spare tire is stored under the left side of the rear cargo floor. Since the spare tire raised the cargo floor by several inches, a storage compartment was added to the right of the spare tire to reclaim some of the lost storage space. A jack is stored under the driver's seat of the xB.

SsangYong Kyron, 2005

2010-09-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

SsangYong Kyron, 2005

The SsangYong Kyron is a compact 'soft-roader' SUV (though it is quite big for its class) built by SsangYong Motor Company. It has a 104 kW (139 hp)/310 N·m (229 ft·lbf) diesel engine, with Mercedes-Benz engine parts. Though the engine is a great one in its own right, it does power a car weighing almost two tonnes which makes performance lethargic at best. It is one of the few compact 4WDs to be able to actually go off road, though, with a separate chassis. Its looks was designed by MG's Ken Greely.

In 2007, the robust XDi270 diesel engine is on the Kyron increasing the performance to 121 kW (162 hp)/340 N·m (251 ft·lbf). Both the XDi200 and XDi270 uses the 3rd-generation Common Rail technology. The sophisticated direct injection system boosts power and fuel efficiency, which lowers pollution and saves on fuel. The new 3rd generation ECU is operating on 32-bit platform rather than the 16-bit found on the previous 2 generations of common rail technology.

SsangYong Rodius, 2004

2010-09-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

SsangYong Rodius, 2004

The SsangYong Rodius is a large MPV/SUV by the Korean automaker SsangYong Motor Company. The car was designed by Ken Greenley, former head of the automotive design course at the Royal College of Art in London.

It is in 7, 9, and 11 seat configurations.
The engines are the Mercedes-Benz licenced 3.2 L 6-cylinder petrol engine ( 162 kW (217 hp) & 309 N·m (228 ft·lbf) ) and the 2.7 L 5-cylinder common rail diesel engine ( 121 kW (162 hp) & 342 N·m (252 ft·lbf) ).

Toyota FT-EV Concept, 2009

2010-08-05T08:40:00.000-07:00

Toyota FT-EV Concept, 2009

The Toyota FT-EV concept shares its platform with the revolutionary-new Toyota iQ urban commuter vehicle. A huge hit in Japan, the iQ is lightweight and seats four passengers in comfort and security, while delivering exceptional mileage, sporty performance, unique refinements and a fun, youthful image.

Toyota FT-EV concept imagines an urban dweller, driving up to 50 miles between home, work and other forms of public transportation, such as high-speed rail. Though, for now, the Toyota FT-EV remains a pure concept, it represents a natural pairing of product strategies.
Though BEVs and new smaller vehicles like the iQ will be a key component of Toyota's sustainable mobility strategy, the conventional gas-electric hybrid, like the all new third-generation Prius, is considered Toyota's long-term core powertrain technology.

The first-generation lithium-ion batteries powering these PHVs will be built on an assembly line at Toyota's PEVE (Panasonic EV Energy Company, LTD) battery plant, a joint-venture production facility in which Toyota owns 60 percent equity. During its development, the new Prius was designed and engineered to package either the lithium-ion battery pack with plug-in capability, or the nickel-metal hydride battery for the conventional gas-electric system.
The 500 PHVs arriving globally in late 2009 will be used for market and engineering analysis. Lease-fleet customers will monitor the performance and durability of the first-generation lithium-ion battery, while offering real world feedback on how future customers might respond to the plug-in process.

Toyota Land Cruiser V8, 2008

2010-08-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

Toyota Land Cruiser V8, 2008

The new Land Cruiser V8, Toyota's top of the range model, is to make soon its debut on the European market. The eighth generation retains all the world-beating off-road capability of its predecessors but adds more refinement, comfort and superior driving quality.

Land Cruiser chief engineer, Sadayoshi Koyari, explains the development theme of the new generation as follow: "For more than 50 years now three key words have been the basis of each generation of Land Cruiser: strength, durability and reliability. Therefore, rather than opting for revolutionary change, decided to carry on the sense of trust in the Land Cruiser as the basic concept. With the latest generation we had to recognise the loyalty of Land Cruiser customers by providing a vehicle that will not betray their trust."

Built on a completely redesigned platform with a body-on-frame design, the length of the new model has been increased to 4950mm while the wheelbase has been kept to 2850 mm. The height varies between 1865mm and 1910mm depending on the suspension featured on the model, the width of the model is reaching 1970mm.

The new Land Cruiser with a brand new 4.5 D-4D V8 diesel engine, combined with a new 6 speed automatic transmission, which develops an impressive 650 Nm from 1600 to 2800 rpm and 286 hp at 3600 rpm. The diesel engine has a fuel consumption of 10,2 L/100km, a 4% improvement versus the outgoing 4.2 TD L6 engine, based on the European combined cycle.

With an improved 4.7 VVT-i V8 petrol engine, combined with a 5 speed automatic transmission, which develops 445 Nm at 3400 rpm and 288 hp at 5400 rpm. This petrol engine has a fuel consumption of 14.4 L/100km, a 12% improvement, based on the European combined cycle. Both engines are fully compliant with Euro IV emissions regulations.

Advanced new technologies to make new Land Cruiser V8 a genuine:

The world first Crawl Control system, available in combination with the petrol engine, which automatically controls the engine and the brakes to maintain a very low speed, avoiding spinning and locking. The driver only needs to steer the vehicle when driving in extreme off-road situations.
The world first 4-Wheel Active Height Control and Adaptive Variable Suspension (4W AHC & AVS), which links all four wheels' suspension system for the first time and also provides a new spring rate control system.
The European first Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which actively operates the front and rear stabiliser bars based on a pair of hydraulic control cylinders.
A newly developed centre Torsen Limited Slip Differential (LSD).

Proton Impian, 2006

2010-07-02T17:49:00.001-07:00

Proton Impian, 2006

The Proton's pragmatic approach to worldwide market requirements blends the best of Malaysian creativity with European engineering precision and Japanese manufacturing skills.

To create a safe and soothing environment for driver and passengers, Proton engineers have been supported by a Malaysian-based project team established by EDAG, the German body engineering specialists, while the Proton Impian's ride comfort and pin sharp handling reflect the silky skills of Lotus suspension tuning experts previously paraded in Proton's acclaimed Satria GTi.

The result is a car with clean, crisp styling that provides occupants with impressive safety standards and drivers with full control, no matter what the conditions. The reinforced body structure is among the strongest in its class, giving greater torsional rigidity for less body roll, better road-holding and a solid, European feel to the driving experience.

Setting even higher quality standards, the Proton Impian is manufactured using the latest modular construction techniques in a new factory alongside Proton's main plant at Shah Alam near Kuala Lumpur. Modular integration allows each module to be stronger and more rigid, at the same time reducing weight.

A state of the art emissions laboratory at the centre is fully approved by the UK's Road Transport Department Vehicle Certification Authority, while sophisticated suspension compliance and measurement rigs coupled with training from Lotus specialists has given Proton engineers the ability to achieve world-class ride and handling standards.

Malaysia's primary national car manufacturer has come a long way since the first Mitsubishi-based car rolled off the production line in 1985 and the Proton Impian personifies a new ambition to produce products that are technically advanced, great value and satisfying to drive.

Initially as a 4 door compact executive saloon with a 1.6 litre Mitsubishi petrol engine, the Proton Impian range will be later expanded with higher derivative variants, while a whole new generation of powerful yet highly efficient engines unveiled recently by Lotus is being readied for use in 2003.

A range of derivative models is currently under development at the R & D Centre, and Proton is also planning the launch of a mid-engined 2+2 sports car based on the Lotus M250 chassis in two years time.

Inner Strength
Thicker steel has been used to reinforce the entire body structure of the new car for maximum rigidity and reduced deformation in collisions. This has also helped to minimise road vibrations and noise transmitted through the suspension mountings.

A recyclable plastic fuel tank module is 15 per cent lighter than in previous Proton models and is designed to withstand a 30 mph rear impact from another vehicle. Modular construction is also used for the doors, front suspension assembly, strut and shock absorber mountings and for brake mountings.

Longer, wider and taller than the Proton Wira, the Proton Impian is also crucially 100 mm longer in the wheelbase. This adds up to more leg, head and shoulder room for added comfort. Spacious accommodation for up to five adults is supported by a wide, easy to load 15.5 cubic feet luggage compartment, which houses a space saving spare wheel and storage tray.

Safe and sure footed
Coil-sprung MacPherson strut front suspension and coil-sprung multilink rear suspension are enhanced by stabiliser bars to create the right balance between precise handling responses transmitted through rack and pinion progressive power steering and ride comfort.

In tuning the spring rates and dampers to achieve this goal, Lotus Engineering conducted exhaustive development work on steering effort and response, linearity, straight-line handling, cornering, lane changing, body control, wheel control and smoothness of ride before the Proton Impian was brought to market. The result is a car that scores eight A's in every facet of ride and handling.

In benchmark tests against such established and acclaimed D sector models as the Audi A4, Honda Accord and Vauxhall Vectra, the Proton Impian established a clear lead in overall ride and handling. With just 2.8 turns from lock to lock, steering response from the alloy wheels shod with 195/55R 15 tyres is direct and positive.

The driver's control of vehicle dynamics is further enhanced by the fitting of traction control as standard equipment to UK-spec cars. Dependable braking over all road surfaces is assured by 10in diameter disc brakes all round, ventilated at the front, plus four-wheel electronic ABS.

Flexible performance
Lower fuel consumption, noise and vibration levels, plus improved flexibility and response are delivered by the latest version of the lightweight Mitsubishi 1.6 litre 4G18 S4 petrol engine fitted to the new model.A plastic intake manifold and redesigned pistons, fuel injectors and distributor have saved space and reduced weight, while a new cooling system, engine stay and cylinder block reinforcement contribute to quieter running.

The four cylinder engine's design features improved cooling and lubrication of the cylinder block. A metal head gasket and wider timing belt ensure even better reliability and consumables such as transmission and engine oil, filters and spark plugs boast extended service intervals.

The new engine delivers increased power and torque than previous 1.6 engines used by Proton for enhanced driveability and economy, while emissions comply with European Step III regulations. Drive is either through a five-speed manual gearbox or optional four-speed electronic automatic transmission.

Safety and comfort
Ergonomic layout of all controls coupled with use of high quality materials in harmonious shades have dictated the design of the new model's passenger compartment. Fascia and seat styling reflects the latest thinking on interior design, with all functions within easy reach and view to help the driver maintain concentration on the road at all times.

Speedometer, tachometer and ancillary gauges monitoring water temperature and fuel level are positioned alongside a warning light panel directly ahead of the driver. Face level fresh air vents are positioned either side of the instrument panel and the driver's view ahead is protected from instrument glare by a stylish curved hood. Below the vents in the strategically-angled centre console are push button controls for secondary functions and a built-in stereo system, which has been ergonomically designed and acoustically tuned by Clarion specially for the Proton Impian.

Controls for the sound system are high mounted in the driver's field of vision to avoid driver distraction and push button controls for volume and station search are incorporated in the 14in. three spoke height adjustable steering wheel, which also houses an electronic driver's airbag.

Primary controls such as headlamps, indicators and wipers/mist washers are mounted on steering column stalks and Proton has even reversed the traditional right side indicator position found on most Pacific rim vehicles to suit European tastes.

Easy to use controls for the standard air conditioning are also to be found in the centre console, which sweeps down to incorporate an ashtray, cigarette lighter, cubby hole, gear shift, handbrake, cup holders and centre armrest concealing a storage bin. Ahead of the front passenger is a fascia-mounted airbag above the large glove compartment and both front seat occupants gain addition impact protection from side airbags.

Body hugging, reclining front seats with adjustable head restraints have 240 mm of fore and aft adjustment, while the driver's seat has hand controls to adjust seat height and lumbar support. Velour upholstery and deep pile carpeting is standard fitment, while the 1.6X is trimmed with Connolly leather upholstery.

Rear seats incorporating vertically adjustable head restraints and a folding central armrest feature 60/40 split and a child seat restraint anchorage. Moulded interior door trim conceals six-piece impact protection that complies with EU side impact safety requirements and windows are electrically powered front and rear.Finger-tip safety-touch controls for all four windows plus child-proof security lock are conveniently located for the driver in the front door armrest, while grab handles above each door and sun visors flush-fold into the moulded headlining.

To the Proton Impian's already impressive inventory of standard equipment, UK customers will benefit from seat belt pre-tensioner and load limiters for the front seats, electrically adjustable door mirrors (electric folding and heated on 1.6X), front door-open warning lights, remote central door locking with keyless entry, alarm and engine immobiliser. In-car entertainment has been acoustically tuned to suit the shape of the Proton Impian cabin. A flexible roof-mounted B sting antenna and stereo RDS radio and a single CD or auto-reverse cassette player provide high quality sound reproduction through two bass, two mid-range and two domed tweeter speakers. Reading lamps are provided for front and rear passengers and there are courtesy lights on both front doors. Either side of the new model's distinctive front grille are twin projector-type halogen headlamps, with indicator and auto-cancelling fog lamps integrated in the body-coloured front bumper. A high level brake light is incorporated into the boot lid, while one-piece tail light assemblies incorporate reverse and auto-cancelling fog lamps.

Proton GEN-2, 2004

2010-07-02T17:42:00.000-07:00

Proton GEN-2, 2004

The Proton Berhad's acquisition of a 100 per cent controlling interest in Group Lotus Plc, personnel from the British sports car manufacturer's engineering division have been closely involved in the development program of GEN-2; both at the Lotus headquarters in Hethel and at Proton's £62 million vehicle design and development centre in Malaysia.

The Proton GEN-2 has been styled to attract a wider customer base; the Lotus Design Studio has had a major influence on the design of the curvy muscular bodywork that looks simply sensational in a range of new colours. From the bee sting aerial to the dashboard instrument panel, reminiscent of the Lotus roundel, the GEN-2's sporting pedigree is undeniable.

The 1.6 litre CAMPRO engine, designed in collaboration with Lotus, delivers exceptional torque output. The double overhead-camshaft engine produces 110bhp.

Power is matched by agility, with handling developed by Lotus. The Proton GEN-2 has outstanding stability when cornering and changing lanes, making it an exciting, responsive drive while maximising passenger comfort.

Sleek, sporty lines continue throughout the interior. The design combines ergonomic comfort with classic minimalism, while exclusive touches from Blaupunkt have brought fingertip controls to life.

Optimal protection is provided by increased body rigidity and strategic crumple zones. Four-wheel ABS on the GSX model ensures stability and good braking performance, whilst the Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) system prevents wheel lock up as the driver makes avoidance manoeuvres whilst braking.

Nissan 370Z Roadster

2010-04-01T19:59:00.000-07:00

Nissan 370Z Roadster, 2010

The Truly Authentic Roadster

The Nissan 370Z Roadster's most obvious departure from the 370Z Coupe is its convertible top. The soft-top roof was designed with an emphasis on three key areas: to provide a sleek silhouette matching the new Z's stunning styling with the top up or down, to offer easy single-action open-close operation, and to provide an enjoyable top-down experience with reduced wind turbulence and all-climate driver/passenger comfort.

With convertible top in the closed position, the design provides a sophisticated sloped-back appearance, the perfect balance between the soft top and the Z body design. The shortened windshield and aerodynamically rounded rear deck enhance the Z's kinetic and dynamic character lines. When in the down position, the convertible top is concealed beneath a full body-color hard tonneau cover, which extends forward to help create the Z Roadster's classic "double cockpit" style interior.

The standard black cloth convertible top features a fabric inner liner, which provides a quality appearance and helps reduce noise intrusion into the cabin, along with an enlarged (versus the previous generation Z Roadster) glass rear window with an integrated electric rear window defroster. The top operation takes approximately 20 seconds start-to-finish and is controlled by either a center console-mounted switch or by a button located on the doors. The automatic latch system secures the top to - or releases it from - the windshield header without driver intervention. The shape and position of the glass wind deflector, located between the fixed headrest bars, has been optimized to reduce turbulence into the cabin.

Like the new 370Z Coupe, the Z Roadster's new exterior is more aggressive in appearance and lighter and tighter in structure than the previous generation. The wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter (100.4 inches versus 104.3 inches) and overall length is reduced by 2.6 inches (167.2 inches versus 169.8 inches). The new Z Roadster features an aluminum hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised, improving rigidity and stability. The Nissan 370Z Roadster includes additional structural reinforcement (over the 370Z Coupe), including in the A-pillars and side sills.
The Z Roadster's exterior design incorporates the look and feel of the new Z Coupe, including its signature long nose/short cockpit proportions, vertical door handles and distinctive new headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce "boomerang" shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.

Inside the stunning exterior, true to its sports car heritage, the Z Roadster's interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place - so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive, top up or down.
The Z Roadster features high back black woven "Carbon" cloth seats with 8-way manual driver's/4-way manual passenger's seat adjustments. Touring models include unique leather-appointed "net" seats with 4-way power/4-way manual operation on the driver's seat (4-way power on the passenger's seat). These second-generation net seats are exclusive to the Z Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions - ideal for open air driving no matter what the outside temperature. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.

Open Air, Open Roads - An Unbeatable Combination
Roadster or Coupe, the new Zs share one of the most advanced drivetrains available for affordable sports cars today. The Z Roadster's long list of cutting edge performance-focused technologies includes a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual with available "SynchroRev Match" (the world's first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission), refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 4-wheel vented disc brakes (with available Nissan Sport Brakes).

Compared to the previous generation 350Z Roadster, the new Z convertible picks up 26 horsepower and 2 lb-ft of torque (332 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm, compared with the previous 3.5-liter V6's 306 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm and 268 lb-ft of toque @ 4,800 rpm).

The 2010 Z Roadster is offered with a choice of two new advanced transmissions - a close-ratio 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic. The 6-speed manual is available with SynchroRev Match (included in the optional Sport Package), which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The SynchroRev Match function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially "blipping" the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts.

The 7-speed automatic includes Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode.
Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. The 7-speed's wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency, while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver's driving style.
Estimated fuel economy for the Nissan 370Z Roadster is 18 mpg City/25 mpg Highway for both the 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions - increases of 1 mpg City/2 mpg Highway for the automatic and 1 mpg City/1 mpg Highway for the manual transmission versus the 2009 350Z Roadster.
The Z Roadster also utilizes the Z Coupe's advanced 4-wheel independent suspension. The double-wishbone front suspension (which replaces the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses lighter forged aluminum arms and a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, along with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35 percent improved lever ratio. The 4-link rear suspension is also stiffer and lighter, with the rear cradle entirely integrated into a single part. "High response" shock absorbers are utilized on each corner for improved ride comfort.

The standard Nissan 370Z Roadster wheel and tire package features 18x8.0-inch front/18x9.0-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A summer tires. Available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires.

The Z's standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/rear standard rotors) with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.
Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the addition of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. A Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is standard.

The Nissan 370Z Roadster's list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; door-mounted curtain air bags; and seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Nissan Qazana Concept

2010-04-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Nissan Qazana Concept, 2009

The Nissan Qazana Concept is an intelligent, all-wheel drive crossover which is masculine, agile, lean, and designed for the tough city streets.

The Challenges tradition
In the same way that Nissan re-wrote the rule-book when it introduced Qashqai two years ago, so Nissan Qazana Concept is ready to do it again. By approaching the small car market from a totally different direction, Qazana invigorates, stimulates and rejuvenates the traditional town runabout.

The Compact dimensions
Compact overall dimensions (4060mm in length, 1570mm tall, 1780 wide and a wheelbase of 2530mm) mean Nissan Qazana Concept would be ideally suited to the urban environment. Yet its advanced specification and energetic styling suggest an ability that goes far beyond the city walls.

By mixing SUV and sports car styling cues, NDE's design team has created a highly individual Crossover quite unlike anything else on the road. The tall stance, truncated rear styling and short front and rear overhangs underscore its feeling of robustness and strength, but the low roof line, assertive side window graphic and broad shoulders hint at a sporting ability absent in traditional all-wheel drives.
At the same time, rounded elements - notably the wheel arches and bonnet - evoke a friendly ambiance and provide a link with existing Nissan Crossovers. Indeed, Qazana has the signature Crossover design detail in the rising window line at the rear, also found on Murano and Qashqai.
The Crossover styling
The profile is dominated by the prominent wheel arches and by the body's high waistline, which combine to give an impression of strength and which contrast vividly with the slim side windows. Echoing a style first seen on Mixim, Nissan's high performance electric coupé concept shown at the 2007 Frankfurt Show, the glasshouse resembles a crash helmet visor.

Though it appears at first glance to be a two-door coupé, Nissan Qazana Concept has a further pair of rear-hinged half doors to ease access to the rear compartment. All the doors are electrically operated and for safety reasons the rear pair can only be activated once the fronts have been opened. With no conventional B-pillar, access to the interior couldn't be easier.
One notable feature of the roof-line is the virtually straight cant rail above the doors which adds further to the strength of the profile. The roof itself has a pair of thin glass inserts running the full length of the roof which allow slithers of natural light into the cabin.
This contrast between sporty performance and all-terrain potential is underlined by the venturi-style skid plate at the rear of the vehicle, Qazana's extended ground clearance and the soft rubber spats which edge the wheel arches and help to disguise the vehicle's long suspension travel. The graphite coloured spats contrast vividly with the bold exterior colour, a unique shade called White Titanium, and the strikingly styled 20 inch black chrome alloy wheels.

Distinctive frontal aspect
The car's face is dominated by four headlamps. Two lower circular lamps set within the bumper contrast with a pair of daylight running strips mounted high on the wings on either side of the bonnet: the look is of a rally car preparing for a night stage.
While the full width grille, dominated by Nissan's centrally mounted badge, is an interpretation of current Nissan styling, its construction is not. A one-piece acrylic moulding, no cooling air can pass through the grille. Instead, the lower portion of the bumper, finished in a contrasting graphite colour, is dominated by a number of large holes for air to reach the radiator. See-through acrylic mouldings are also used for the door mirrors.

The interior has been designed as an extension of the exterior thanks to a clever interplay between hard and soft materials. Rather than being completely enveloped in leather for example, elements of the lightweight carbon fibre seat structure are on permanent view, appearing to have 'broken through' the covering. The centre portion of the backrests features a mesh material, allowing fresh air to circulate around the occupants.
Like the seats, the metal sections of the centre console seem to have forced their way through the leather covering while the internal door-frame is part exposed so that the door pull appears to be hewn from solid metal.
Motorcycle inspired interior
The way the structure appears through the fabric of the interior also reflects motorcycle design and construction.
Accentuating the practical side of the car, Nissan Qazana Concept has 'floating' seats centrally mounted over a one-piece rubberised floor covering, creating an openness in the cockpit. Grooves cut in the flooring are replicated on the seats themselves.

The dashboard is dominated by a centrally mounted screen. As well as doubling as a navigation display, it will deliver vital information relating to Nissan's next generation fully electronic ALL MODE four-wheel drive with torque vectoring system and other advanced technical processes found on board, including integrated communications systems. Using an intuitive touch-screen interface, the driver will be able to adjust the air-conditioning and other key vehicle settings.

Nissan Nuvu Concept,

2010-04-01T19:47:00.000-07:00

Nissan Nuvu Concept, 2008

The Nissan Nuvu is a concept vehicle with unique 2+1 seating. It is easy to drive, even easier to park. It is the key solutions for tomorrow's city car."

The Nissan Nuvu is described as a moving oasis, a haven of green tranquillity in the urban jungle. To underline this message, Nissan Nuvu incorporates a witty representation of its green credentials: across its all-glass roof are a dozen or so small solar panels. Shaped like leaves on a branch, the power they generate is fed to the battery using a 'tree trunk' within the car as a conduit. Nissan Nuvu also uses natural, organic and recycled materials within the cabin.

The interior package
The dimensions provide all the interior room needed for the vast majority of city journeys. Nissan Nuvu has two regular seats and a third occasional chair that can be folded down when required. But, unlike some two-seater city cars currently on the market, it is a thoroughly practical proposition with an integral luggage area providing sufficient space for a typical supermarket or shopping expedition.
The packaging is designed to give priority to driver comfort with C-segment levels of space and the flexibility to invite one or two passengers on board. Cabin layout places the regular passenger seat beside but largely behind the driver's seat, allowing the passenger to stretch right out. Ahead of this seat is a third occasional chair which, when not in use, is folded away into the dashboard assembly.

But even when the third seat is in use, there remains sufficient legroom for both passengers.
In the interests of saving both weight and space, the third seat has a centre section made from hard wearing yet comfortable netting. This hammock-like approach also has the benefit of allowing cool or warm air to circulate around the occupant's body for extra comfort.
Shopping bags, briefcases and smaller items of luggage can be stowed behind the driver's seat while if the driver is travelling solo, larger items can be stowed in the passenger footwall.

The Natural materials
Many of the materials used inside Nissan Nuvu reflect an increasing concern for the environment. The floor is made from wood fibres pressed into laminate sheets and is studded with rubber inserts made from recycled tyres for grip.
To create a light and bright interior, the windscreen and roof merge into one extended panel running virtually the entire length of the car. But undoubtedly the most unusual feature of the interior is the 'energy tree' which rises from the luggage compartment floor to the roof behind the driver's seat.

The Solar panels
The energy tree is shaped like a thin trunk. As it reaches daylight it branches out under the glass roof providing occupants with protection from bright sunlight… just like a real tree. And providing a visual reminder of Nissan Nuvu's green credentials, covering the branches are dozens of small solar panels shaped like leaves.
The panels absorb energy from the sun which is then fed back down the energy tree and used to help recharge the battery and provide an extra power boost for the electric motor. As well as being genuinely green energy, it is estimated that the power generated via the solar panels will save the equivalent of one full overnight charge from mains electricity each month.

Driver controls are as simple as possible. All the major functions - steering, braking, transmission and throttle - are 'By-Wire' while the steering is controlled by an aircraft-style steering yoke: with just one turn from lock to lock, the steering is very direct for agility and manoeuvrability in the city. Nuvu's turning circle is just 3.7 metres. Thanks to its wide track and the use of 16 inch 165/55 tyres mounted on lightweight, almost transparent, wheels, ride comfort, stability and agility is of the highest order.
There are two pedals - for stop and go - stalks for minor controls and a digital instrument panel with dials for speed, distance covered and battery range.
Rear view/parking monitor
Two screens on the dashboard display the view behind the car - there are no door mirrors to disturb the airflow, but small cameras - and double as monitors for the Around View Camera which give a bird's eye view of the car when manoeuvering or parking.
Saving energy was the guiding force behind the use of low-energy LED head and tail lamps, while Nissan Nuvu's heating and ventilation system filters and cleans the city air as it passes through the vehicle. Not only does it produce no emissions at source, but Nissan Nuvu actually helps clean up the city environment.

The exterior and interior design
Nuvu's design is further clear evidence of Nissan's continued desire to challenge convention and to explore all the possibilities that the EV could bring us. In many ways it was inspired by our two most extreme EVs of recent times: Mixim and Pivo 2.
Significantly, though, Nuvu delivers a more realistic interpretation of two of the most important aspects of its forerunners - the 'Friendly Innovation' found in Pivo 2 and the 'Sports Dynamics' central to Mixim

Matching the ecological values of an electric vehicle, the moulded plastics and synthetic elements found inside a typical production car have been replaced by natural materials and organic alternatives, such as the wood fibres and rubber from car tyres used for the flooring. The result helps create a relaxed, warm atmosphere within Nuvu's cabin.
During the design development stage, key targets were to develop an EV that encompassed obvious modernity with engaging ambience and a playful aspect - hence the energy tree. "You don't need to be a car lover to fall in love with Nuvu," adds Bancon.

EV drivetrain
Nissan Nuvu is more than a styling concept of a future EV. It is a fully working mobile test bed for much of the technology that will be used in Nissan's production EV to be launched in 2010. For this reason elements of its technical specification are being kept secret for the time being.
The electric motor used in Nissan Nuvu is mounted at the rear of the vehicle and drives the back wheels, though neither its exact specification nor the power and torque figures are being released at this stage. A driving range of 125 kms and top speed of 120 km/h are being made public, however.

Li-Ion battery
Similarly although it can be revealed that the batteries used are of the latest laminated lithium-ion type and have a capacity of 140 Wh/kg (watt-hours per kilogram), the total capacity of the batteries and number of modules are not being disclosed at this stage.

Unlike a conventional lithium-ion battery with its bulky cylindrical cells, the laminated Li-Ion battery as used in Nissan Nuvu has thin laminated cells and fewer components overall. This boosts its power by a factor of 1.5 at the same time as halving its physical size. It also remains twice as efficient as a conventional cylindrical Li-Ion battery even after five years or 100,000 kms of continuous usage.
Its compact size allows the batteries to be mounted under the seats and the vehicle's flat floor, thus helping to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible.
A quick charge from empty to full should take between 10 to 20 minutes while a full charge should take between three to four hours from a domestic 220V socket.

Daihatsu Sirion

2010-04-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

Daihatsu Sirion, 2007

The new Daihatsu Sirion is a totally differently proportioned car to its predecessor and more closely matches the Nissan Micra for length, width and height but with passenger space rivalling the considerably longer Honda Jazz.

Its front and rear tracks - at 1,460 and 1,465 mm - are 65 and 60 mm wider than before. The Sirion's length of 3,600 mm is actually 95 mm shorter and even 20 mm less than the Ford Ka.
However, the wheelbase of 2,430 mm is 85 mm longer than the old model and the 1,665 mm width is 70 mm more and even 5 mm greater than the Toyota Yaris, Nissan Micra and Fiat Punto. Height grows by 100 mm to 1,550 mm - 10 mm greater than the Micra.

Especially short front and rear overhangs, a higher seating position and a gently tapering roofline provide surprising space yet cleverly mask the height.

Impressive Interior Space
The new Daihatsu Sirion has occupant legroom and headroom from the next-size-up. Its interior width of 1,400 mm is 70 mm greater than before and 10 mm more than the Toyota Yaris.
A 590 mm seat height allows easy entry and exit aided by wide-opening doors. The rear doors, for example, open to 80 degrees.
The interior length of 1,830 mm is 20 mm more than the Yaris while the interior height is also greater than the Toyota.
Luggage space is also impressive. With both rear seats up it measures 225 litres (VDA) compared to 205 litres for the Yaris. However, with the seats folded, this rises to 630 litres - 80 litres more than the Toyota.

World-Class Engines
The new Daihatsu Sirion boasts two of the world's most efficient 1.0 and 1.3 litre petrol engines, combining strong driveability with ultra-low fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
All-New One Litre
The three cylinder, twin-overhead camshaft 1.0 litre is all-new and is bigger than before with a 998 cc capacity (was 989 cc), and a slightly smaller 71 mm bore and longer 84 mm stroke (was 72 x 81 mm).
The new 12-valve 1.0 litre's maximum power of 69.3 PS at 6,000 rpm is exceptionally high for its size, while the 69.3 lb.ft torque is also impressive - especially at an accessible 3,600 rpm. The compression ratio is 10.5:1.

Unrivalled Performance, Economy And Emissions
No rival can match the new Daihatsu Sirion 1.0 litre's performance, fuel economy and low emissions.
The top speed is a remarkable 99.4 mph with a 0-60 mph time of 13.5 seconds. Fuel consumption is an outstanding 46.3/64.2 and 56.5 mpg on the Urban/Extra Urban and Combined Cycles.

Thoroughly Revised 1.3 Litre
In the new Sirion's application, power is 87 PS (was 102 PS) but at 6,000 rpm instead of 7,000 rpm. Torque is the same 88.5 lb.ft but at a much more useable 3,200 rpm instead of 4,400 rpm as in the previous model.

With a compression ratio of 10.3:1, this compact, light, all-alloy engine has bore and stroke dimensions of 72 x 79.7 mm and - like the 1.0 litre - employs durable chains for its camshaft drive.
Top speed for the manual is 106 mph with the four-speed automatic only slightly slower at 102 mph. The former has a 10.9 second 0-60 mph time while the automatic takes 12.6 seconds.
Fuel economy is outstanding for both at 37.7/58.9 and 48.7 mpg on the Urban/Extra Urban and Combined Cycles for the manual and 32.8/54.3 and 44.1 mpg for the automatic. CO2 emissions are among the lowest in the Daihatsu Sirion's class at 137 and 151 g/km respectively.

World's First Self-Regenerating Catalyst
The new Daihatsu Sirion 1.3 litre features the world's first self-regenerating catalyst. This effectively extends the life of the catalytic converter, reducing maintenance costs.

This revolutionary technology works by providing a self-regenerating capability in the particles of the precious metal which normally degrades.
sing nanotechnology, the intelligent catalyst incorporates metallic ions of palladium, the most heat-sensitive of the metals used in a catalytic converter.
According to temperature and available oxygen, the particles turn in and out of a crystalline state therefore regenerating and prolonging the 'cat's' ability to clean exhaust gasses.

European-Tuned Chassis
The new Sirion's suspension has been thoroughly proven on a variety of European roads and tuned for suppleness and stability.

Special features at the rear include a lengthened suspension stroke and more rigid bearings to improve stability.
Straight-line stability is especially strong and the steering self-centres well, avoiding the vagueness and lane-wander of some electric systems.

Class-Beating Turning Circle
Coupled with excellent visibility and a seating position higher than the norm, parking is made that much easier - aided by rear parking sensors on SE models.

In fact, with a kerb-to-kerb turning circle of 9.4 metres, the Daihatsu Sirion is 0.4 metres tighter than the Ford Fiesta or Toyota Yaris, 0.6 metres better than the Vauxhall Corsa and a massive 0.9 metres more agile than the Renault Clio.

Top Level Safety Package
Every aspect of safety has been studied for the new Sirion with the aim of achieving 4-stars in the Euro NCAP tests.

The three rear seatbelts all boast three-point location plus ISOFIX for the outer belts. This gives better location for child safety seats. There are a total of five height-adjustable head-restraints.
The new Sirion's anti-lock ventilated front disc and rear drum brakes (ABS) are aided by Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). This optimises braking force according to the weight distribution of passengers and luggage.

The standard for all - including the Sirion 1.0 S - is air-conditioning, a radio/CD player, ABS with EBD, power steering, four electric windows, front and side airbags and remote central-locking.
The Daihatsu Sirion 1.3 S adds, for example, rear speakers, electric door mirrors, driver's seat height adjustment, chrome interior door handles and a front passenger seat back pocket.
The Daihatsu Sirion also boasts highly competitive insurance groups of 4D for the 1.0 S, 5D for the 1.0 SE and 6D for the 1.3 - both helping reduce running costs.

Daihatsu Charade

2010-04-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

Daihatsu Charade, 2006

Ignoring hybrids, the Daihatsu Charade has arguably the world's most efficient 1.0 litre petrol engine with an unrivalled fuel economy, exhaust emission and performance combination.

The Daihatsu Charade is the UK's No 1 four-seater for petrol-engine economy with Urban/Extra Urban and Combined figures of 47.1/68.9 and 58.9 mpg in manual form.
The 58.9 mpg figure is a staggering 14.1 mpg better than the Hyundai Amica 1.0, 11.8 mpg superior to a Fiat Seicento and leads the SEAT Arosa 1.0 litre by 11.2 mpg.

All its city car rivals are substantially slower, failing to remotely match the Daihatsu Charade manual's 99.4 mph top speed or automatic's 93.1 mph maximum - and with much higher CO2 exhaust emissions.

In fact, the Daihatsu Charade manual's emissions of 114 g/km qualifies the owner for the lowest possible Road Fund Licence charge of £70 for 12 months (AA band up to 120 g/km).

Not to be outdone, the Daihatsu Charade automatic is also a class-leader with Urban/Extra Urban and Combined fuel economy figures of 38.7/55.4 and 47.9 mpg. Its CO2 exhaust emissions are an ultra-low 140 g/km. Naturally, the new car complies with Euro4 emission standards.

As for acceleration, the new Charade is also in a class of its own with 0-62 mph times of 12.2 seconds for the manual and 15 seconds for the automatic. To put this into context, the manual's figures precisely match the 1.4 litre 75 PS Peugeot 206.

Three Cylinder, Twin-Cam With Dynamic Variable Valve Timing
Daihatsu has long experience in the art of producing efficient small-capacity three cylinder engines which are currently offered on both the smaller Cuore and larger Sirion. A three-cylinder unit gives greater torque than a four with reduced internal friction - both ideal for maximising flexibility and efficiency.

The Daihatsu Charade's in-line 989 cc engine has a bore and stroke of 72 x 81 mm, a 10:1 compression ratio and features both twin-overhead camshafts with 12 valves and Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT).
DVVT provides even stronger low-speed pulling power - which results in fewer gear-changes - yet also increases power at the top-end of the engine's rev-range, boosting overtaking ability.

New features for the Charade include a resin port intake manifold and a head cover incorporating an air-cleaner case. Both reduce weight and strengthen torque in the most frequently used rev-range. Maximum power is 58.5 PS at 6,000 rpm with torque of 67.1 lb ft at 4,000 rpm.
Improved Transmission
Compared to the Cuore and Sirion, the new Daihatsu Charade has an improved five-speed manual transmission with a more precise, linear and direct shift feel.
Fourth and fifth gears pull a relatively high 17.8 and 21.7 mph per 1,000 rpm which reduces engine speed and therefore noise. The automatic transmission is a new 4-speed unit.

European Feel For Suspension
Daihatsu benchmarked the larger Renault Clio for ride and refinement, with extensive development work being undertaken on European roads.

The result is an especially long suspension stroke for the Charade's front and rear arrangement, both in compression and rebound. This provides a subtle, compliant ride but with firm damping control for reduced float.

The front suspension is by conventional MacPherson struts with coil springs and a new 'L' shaped lower arm which gives more precise control of wheel movement.

The rear suspension is via the well-proven semi-independent torsion bar system with separate coil springs. However, compared to other models, the shock-absorbers are mounted more vertically, again providing better damping control and reducing the transmission of road noise.

Standard High-Tech Power-Steering
The Daihatsu Charade's standard power steering uses the latest technology to provide optimum feel, quick responses and reduced fuel consumption.

Instead of relying on an engine-driven pump, the new speed-sensitive electric power steering comprises a torque sensor, computer and assist motor which barely require any energy to operate.

Because of its light weight and finely-tuned suspension, the new Daihatsu Charade can provide high levels of cornering grip with relatively narrow-section 155/65R13 tyres mounted on 13 x 4 ins steel or alloy wheels. This helps fuel economy thanks to a low rolling resistance.

'Best-In-Class' Braking Performance
As for braking performance, Daihatsu aims to provide 'best-in-class' stopping distances partly thanks to the excellent anti-dive characteristics of the front suspension.
In addition, the front disc pads are made from high-friction material and the tyres also benefit from high straight-line grip levels.

The Daihatsu Charade is fitted with solid front disc and rear drum brakes operated by an 8 ins servo unit. The anti-lock-braking system incorporated EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution). This optimises braking force according to the weight distribution of passengers and luggage.

'Best-In-Class' Refinement
Daihatsu again used the Renault Clio as its benchmark for NVH with the aim of being not only best in the city car class but also among superminis.

For example, special attention was placed on engine boom, idling shake, running vibration and wind noise - all areas which can contribute to a small car becoming tiring on a long journey.
The Charade's sector-leading aerodynamics of 0.31 Cd not only improves fuel economy and provides a higher top speed - it also makes the car quieter.

Apart from having a more rigid body than previous Daihatsus, the Charade features a new engine installation comprising three widely-spread mounting points employing soft rubber.

This system better dampens noise and vibration and reduces engine movement or 'shunt', especially when moving away from rest. An H-shaped front frame is also fitted, together with a performance rod to further reduce vibration.
Finally, the front floor panel is curved to deflect sound, with a special corrugated felt panel fitted to the bulkhead.
Top-Level Safety Performance
Top-level safety performance is promised for the Daihatsu Charade with previously unheard of levels of passenger and pedestrian protection for such a small car.

The Daihatsu Charade complies with criterion comparable with a 4-Star Euro NCAP for passenger safety and 3-Star for pedestrian.

The platform is new and makes extensive use of high-strength steels for areas such as the floor pan, B-posts and front engine-mounting frame. This new energy-absorbing structure better disperses impact forces.

Designed to offer 'best-in-class' protection in 'real-world' accidents, the new Daihatsu Charade has a straight front side member with its end height at the same level as, for example a Toyota Corolla, Avensis or Lexus. Its car-to-car collision performance was designed around these considerably larger cars.

Other passive safety features include side-impact protection door beams, driver and passenger airbags plus the availability of side airbags. The front seatbelts are height-adjustable and feature both force-limiters and pre-tensioners. Both front and rear seats have adjustable head restraints.

The new Charade features Daihatsu's impact-sensing release system. During a collision it unlocks the doors and turns on the interior light and hazard warning lights to enable easier escape or rescue.

Pedestrian safety is also well catered for. The engine compartment has been designed to allow it to more effectively absorb crash energy and the front windscreen wiper pivots and bonnet hinges have shock-absorbing spaces for the same purpose.
Equipment, Prices And Model Line-Up
The full Daihatsu Charade line-up together with prices will be announced in May prior to the range going on sale.
However, the equipments: ABS with EBD, air-conditioning, alloy wheels, radio/CD player, driver, passenger and side airbags, speed-sensitive electric power-steering, electric windows and door mirrors, central locking, height-adjustable steering wheel and front seat-belts, rev-counter, rear wash/wipe, split-folding rear seat with adjustable head-restraints, two-tone cloth seat trim, cloth-covered door inserts and fully-trimmed load compartment with removable cover.

Daihatsu ai-concept

2010-04-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Daihatsu ai-concept, 2003

Daewoo L4X

2010-04-01T19:19:00.000-07:00

Daewoo L4X, 2007

GM Daewoo L4X - Premium Large Sedan of the Future

GM Daewoo is lifting the veil on a show car version of its much-anticipated long-wheelbase premium large sedan, the L4X.

The rear-wheel-drive product, which is close to a production version, permits a first glimpse into what GM Daewoo is pursuing as its premium large sedan. GM Daewoo's future flagship will boast a superior level of refinement, safety and comfort features, stylish, it also offers an array of convenience features and luxury appointments to satisfy the most sophisticated Korean consumers."
The L4X comes with a powerful 3.6-liter V-6 powerplant that is matched with a smooth-shifting five-speed automatic transmission. The state-of-the-art alloy engine generates peak power and torque of 258 hp at 6,500 rpm and 34.7 kg.m at 3,200 rpm.
What makes the L4X stand out in terms of superior ride and handling are its sharpened chassis dynamics coupled with a longest-in-class 3,009-mm wheelbase, world-class structural stiffness and a sophisticated rear-wheel-drive system.

The elegant exterior design, which will set it apart from other premium sedans, is characterized by a stretched silhouette and a wide stance accentuated by flared wheel arches. The longer rear doors are the key to the dramatic proportions, which are accentuated by a sweeping roofline and substantial wheel and tire package.
as a result of the longest wheelbase among Korean large sedans, the wheels have been moved to the very corners of the car, making it look and perform in a stable and sporty manner.
The Detail highlights include signature LED repeater lamps in the fender vents, striking LED tail lamps and bright chrome accents. Its bi-xenon headlamps and tail lamps have a high-tech, precise and almost diamond-like appearance, with finely detailed elements that make them sparkle and glisten. The bright chrome bodyside molding and chrome-highlighted door handles add a touch of sculptured elegance to the side.

The themes for the interior design are comfort, harmony, luxury and attention to detail. The L4X offers a spacious and safe passenger compartment that provides a prestigious driving environment with optimized storage, packaging and ergonomics.

To give owners second-to-none premium comfort, the production version of the new GM Daewoo flagship will feature an array of safety and convenience features, including a navigation system with Digital Multimedia Broadcasting (DMB) TV, bi-xenon headlamps, curtain air bags, tri-zone automatic temperature controls, power rear seats with three-step temperature control heating and rear-back massage, power rear-window curtains, roller blinds, a rearview camera and power-folding outside rear view mirrors.

Suzuki Swift VVT

2010-04-01T19:14:00.001-07:00

Suzuki Swift VVT, 2005

A redesigned Swift was announced at the Paris Auto Salon in September 2004. This Swift is intended to compete in the European B segment with the likes of Peugeot 206, Opel Corsa and the Fiat Punto. With 1.3 and 1.5 L engines, the new Swift is Suzuki's new "global car", to be produced in Hungary, India, Japan and by Chang'an in China. 3- and 5-door bodies.

The the new model is the first of its kind during which a Suzuki employed Indian engineers to design a car that would compete in the global market. The design of the new Swift was previewed on the Concept S and Concept S2 concept cars at auto shows, in the years leading up to its launch. It's proportions & essential shape are unmistakely like the BMW MINI, due to the blacked-out A-pillars and bumper-car stance. The exterior shape is described by some as "1.5 box".

Despite Suzuki's long-standing relationship with General Motors (which itself had prompted the development of the very first Swift), the new Swift is entirely Suzuki, and not based on the GM Gamma platform. The prestigious British Autocar magazine gave the new Swift a favourable 4/5 stars in road test, badging it a "thoroughly impressive all-rounder". Mk4 Swift has received a 4 stars out of 5 rating in the EURO NCAP crash tests.

Standard equipment include leather steering wheel, dual air-bag, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), front disk brake with rear drum brake, sliding storage under passenger seat, single CD player.

Since its global launch in 2005, Mkq4 Swift recorded above forecast sales. In Japan, sales figure doubled forecast. Mk4 Swift enjoyed healthy sales in India where a substantial percentage of the car is built with locally made components. Rapid sales of the new Swift model contributed to the 64% rise in Q1 profits for the Maruti corporation. Waiting period in India for the car is at least 3 months.

Suzuki Swift Rally Car

2010-04-01T19:12:00.001-07:00

Suzuki Swift Rally Car, 2005

A redesigned Swift was announced at the Paris Auto Salon in September 2004. This Swift is intended to compete in the European B segment with the likes of Peugeot 206, Opel Corsa and the Fiat Punto. Available with 1.3 and 1.5 L engines, the new Swift is Suzuki's new "global car", to be produced in Hungary, India, Japan and by Chang'an in China. 3- and 5-door bodies are available.

The the new model is the first of its kind during which a Suzuki employed Indian engineers to design a car that would compete in the global market. The design of the new Swift was previewed on the Concept S and Concept S2 concept cars at auto shows, in the years leading up to its launch. It's proportions & essential shape are unmistakely like the BMW MINI, due to the blacked-out A-pillars and bumper-car stance. The exterior shape is described by some as "1.5 box".

Despite Suzuki's long-standing relationship with General Motors (which itself had prompted the development of the very first Swift), the new Swift is entirely Suzuki, and not based on the GM Gamma platform. The prestigious British Autocar magazine gave the new Swift a favourable 4/5 stars in road test, badging it a "thoroughly impressive all-rounder". Mk4 Swift has received a 4 stars out of 5 rating in the EURO NCAP crash tests.
Standard equipment include leather steering wheel, dual air-bag, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), front disk brake with rear drum brake, sliding storage under passenger seat, single CD player.

Since its global launch in 2005, Mkq4 Swift recorded above forecast sales. In Japan, sales figure doubled forecast. Mk4 Swift enjoyed healthy sales in India where a substantial percentage of the car is built with locally made components. Rapid sales of the new Swift model contributed to the 64% rise in Q1 profits for the Maruti corporation. Waiting period in India for the car is at least 3 months.

Suzuki Swift

2010-04-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

Suzuki Swift, 2005

1. Introduction

A new kind of compact car. A new philosophy and a new beginning.
The 2005 Geneva Motor Show presents the ideal opportunity to introduce both our new Swift compact, as well as our fresh new brand philosophy, which we've chosen to call 'Way of Life!' Like all our products, the Swift has been designed to deliver a driving experience with genuine worldwide appeal.

The new Swift embodies a globally-oriented approach to product development and manufacture. From the very beginning of its development programme, a dedicated team of Suzuki designers and engineers collaborated closely with European automotive professionals and ordinary motoring enthusiasts in pursuit of Suzuki's best compact car ever.
As part of Suzuki's global strategy, the Swift will be manufactured in Hungary, Japan, China and India.

Radical innovation: The story behind the new Suzuki Swift
Suzuki recently embarked on a radical new programme of innovation: a mission aimed at reaffirming and strengthening Suzuki's position as a compact-car innovator; a mission destined to yield vehicles embodying the unique DNA of a company that's not only a world leader in compact cars but also the world's dominant force in motorcycles.

2. Exterior design
A head-turning fusion of dynamism and stability
Suzuki's exciting new direction in car design is instantly apparent in the exterior styling of the new Swift.
In contrast to the monoform styling adopted for many vehicles in the supermini category, the new Swift has a 1.5-box style that communicates an unmistakable sense of dynamism and substantiality; it consistently earned praise among European motorists who collaborated with the design programme.

3. Interior design
A cockpit designed for true driving pleasure
Inside the new Swift, the driver enjoys an environment that reflects a focus on style, sportiness, and driving pleasure.
The wraparound look of the glass surfaces is continued in the cabin design, creating not only a chic look but also a feeling of involvement with the car and confidence in it.

The top of the instrument panel is positioned optimally low to give the driver a clear view forward. This means the driver enjoys a feeling of openness and finds the new Swift easy to place accurately on the road. The overall result is confident, enjoyable driving with a satisfying feeling of involvement.
The audio and climate-control systems are easy to operate thanks to optimally large, dial-type controls. For added convenience, the audio system can also be operated using optional steering-wheel-mounted controls.
The front seats offer superior support and hold, and each one has a class-leading fore-aft slide range of 240mm. Plus, the driver's seat has a height adjuster with an up-down range of 30mm. A tilt-adjustable steering column further accommodates for every driver.
4. Powertrain
Efficient, enjoyable performance for every driving situation
For efficient, enjoyable performance that meets every driver's needs, the new Swift comes with a choice of three comprehensively upgraded engines (the 1.3-litre M13A petrol engine, the 1.5-litre M15A petrol engine, and the 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine) and with choice of transmissions (a five-speed manual, a five-speed Manual Transmission Automated, and a four-speed automatic).
Key technologies of the petrol engines include variable valve timing (used with the 1.5-litre petrol engine), which helps to maximize torque and power throughout the rev range.
The 1.3-litre diesel engine has a common-rail fuel-injection system for superior performance, emission control, and fuel efficiency. It breathes through an intercooled turbocharger, which helps to realize a strong, flat torque curve with smooth response even at low engine speeds.

5. Chassis
Newly conceived systems for next-generation ride and handling
With the new Swift, Suzuki's chassis engineers targeted a dynamic driving experience together with a ride that feels sophisticated and comfortable. They achieved this difficult balance by integrating the body with a newly developed platform incorporating specially conceived chassis systems.
The newly developed platform provides the new Swift with wide treads (front: 1470mm, rear: 1480mm), a great overall width (1,690mm), and a long wheelbase (2,380mm). These dimensions not only benefit interior spaciousness but also help to enable superior on-road stability and comfort.
The front suspension has a new design in which the lower arms, steering gearbox, and rear engine mounting are attached to a suspension subframe. This design gives significantly higher mounting rigidity, which translates into lower road noise and a stronger feeling of stability.

6. Safety and security
Class-leading protection from collisions and theft
Peace of mind for users is always a top priority for Suzuki, so the new Swift incorporates the latest technologies for safety and security.
Developing the body from scratch enabled the engineering team to realize an outstandingly crashworthy structure; one in which high-tensile steel and tailored blanks are used extensively to ensure lightness and strength. It also enabled the team to adopt structures (notably in the bonnet, fenders, wipers, and front bumper) that help protect pedestrians in the event of contact.
In the cabin, users are further shielded from impact forces by a collapsible steering column, leg-injury-mitigating brake and clutch pedals, front-seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, energy-absorbing trim, front airbags, and available side and curtain airbags.

7. Utility
Cleverly arranged space for daily convenience
Although the new Swift has dimensions that make it easy to manage on the road, clever use of interior space realizes exceptional people- and luggage-carrying flexibility.
With all seats in use, the luggage area has a generous capacity of 213L (VDA). The luggage area is tall enough to allow a large suitcase to be loaded vertically. Plus, the luggage-area floor is smooth and flat thanks the newly adopted torsion-beam rear suspension.
In higher grades, the rear seat has a 40/60-split design and a tumble-folding function so it can be configured to create an extended, flat luggage surface on each side.

8. Colours
A wide range of stylish body colours
The new Swift is available in 11 stylish body colours. Ten of the body colours were newly developed using environment-friendly water-based paint. Each body colour is a perfect complement for the new Swift's eye-catching contours and proportions.
9. An exciting worldwide promotion
This TVCF uses young world-class footballer Cristiano Ronaldo to promote the all-new Suzuki Swift's agile handling and dynamic performance. The TVCF features the Swift's agile handling as it chases a football through the city streets. Displaying the fine-tuned footwork of a world-class footballer, the nimble Swift is a world-class performer as well.
When the Swift finally comes to a halt, Cristiano Ronaldo himself steps out of the car to the great amusement of a group of kids, leading into the key phrase, 'Wanna Play?'

Toyota Verso

2009-12-31T17:28:00.000-08:00

Toyota Verso

The new Toyota Verso is a no-compromise choice for compact MPV customers. It is true to what the term MPV stands for - a multi-purpose vehicle - but doesn't ask the motorist to make sacrifices where style, comfort, quality and driving pleasure are concerned. Combining practicality and safety with desirability, new Toyota Verso will appeal to customers who want and expect more than just a functional car.

New Toyota Verso builds on the strong visual appeal of the model it replaces with a more dynamic design. It also benefits from greater levels of comfort, superior standard safety features, more interior space for passengers and their luggage, and, thanks to an engine range that features Toyota Optimal Drive technology across the board, it gives a more dynamic driving experience while maintaining class-leading emissions levels.

Masato Katsumata, Chief Engineer of new Toyota Verso, explained the objectives of the product development: "In developing new Verso we gave it an exterior design that expresses sportiness and stability, and a fresh new interior with excellent convenience and attention to detail. We also pursued a high level of comfort and usefulness that we believe will be appreciated by European owners.

"New Verso has a wide range of interior storage points and user-friendly flexibility that allow it to respond easily to the varying needs of different owners. Handling performance has been enhanced and, with support from our European engineering teams, the vehicle has been fine-tuned to ensure it gives stable and smooth performance on every type of European road."

New Toyota Verso combines modern styling inside and out with space, comfort, practicality and flexibility. Class-leading safety provisions, ride quality, acoustic comfort and dynamic abilities match those of a conventional passenger car.

The interior is all new, with more space, comfort and an improved Easy Flat-7 folding system for the five rear seats that is easier to operate. Special attention has been paid to improving accommodation for all rear seat passengers, while there is significantly more room behind the third row of seats for load carrying.

Toyota Optimal Drive technology has been introduced throughout the range, increasing engine power by up to 20 per cent, while at the same time achieving reductions in emissions and fuel economy of up to 12 per cent. In the UK Toyota Verso will be offered with new 1.6 and 1.8 Valvematic petrol engines which will have a class-leading combination of power and CO2 emissions. These will be offered with a new six-speed manual transmission as standard, with the option of Toyota's new Multidrive S continuously variable transmission on the 1.8 unit. A revised version of the 2.0-litre D-4D diesel will also be available, with a 2.2 D-CAT engine with new six-speed automatic transmission due to join the line-up later in the year.

New Toyota Verso is designed to achieve a maximum, five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test programme, thanks to upgraded active, passive and pedestrian impact safety features and a highly rigid, impact absorbing body shell that makes greater use of high tensile steel. Notably all Toyota Verso models will be equipped with curtain shield airbag protection for passengers in the third row of seats and with intelligent steering assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+).

Capitalising on an investment of more than €1 billion and reinforcing the Adapazari plant's reputation for exceptional build quality, the car will be built by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey.

The DESIGN
Toyota's 'Dynamic Lounge' concept for new Toyota Verso focuses on all the key attributes of a C-segment MPV to ensure the car combines contemporary exterior and interior styling with the ultimate in space, comfort, practicality and flexibility, class leading occupant and pedestrian safety features, and the ride quality, acoustic comfort and dynamic abilities of a conventional passenger car.

The 'lounge' element of the concept can be witnessed in the comfort, quality, convenience, atmosphere and roominess of the all-new interior, while Toyota Verso's 'Dynamic' content is expressed through powerful external and interior design elements and strong driving dynamics.

The Exterior
Building on the dynamic character of the current model, new Toyota Verso takes Toyota's design language a stage forward with new Dual-Zone exterior styling.

This approach is expressed in the car's profile view, with a strong character line flowing from the edge of the front bumper, rising through the lower edge of the doors and sweeping up through the C-pillar to the roof-mounted spoiler. On one side of this line Zone I takes in the bonnet and cabin, and on the other Zone II embraces the chassis and boot space.

From the front, new Toyota Verso is characterised by forward-flowing lines and a powerful stance, emphasised by the horizontal lines of the twin-bar grille, headlamps that are pulled tightly back into the wings, a deep air dam and a prominent, central Toyota emblem.

In profile view, the sharply delineated front wheelarches complement the dual-zone character line, blending into the upper wings and generating a second character line that runs through the aerodynamic door handles along the vehicle's waistline.

The Interior

The Toyota designers describe the interior theme as Smart Wave Dynamism, expressed most strongly in the wave-like form of the upper instrument panel, which distinguishes the functional character of the driver's zone from the more relaxed ambience of the passenger zone. The two zones are linked by a crisp wave line that runs the full width of the fascia.

The speedometer and tachometer are set into individual cylinder housings, angled towards the driver and slightly offset so as not to interfere with the driver's view of the road ahead. The gear lever is mounted close to the steering wheel on a centre console that provides a strong vertical definition of the driver's zone.

New puddle lights are integrated in the door mirrors, which illuminate as you approach and unlock the vehicle with the key fob, with soft orange LED lighting activated in the front footwells as the doors are opened.

Titanium-look inserts are featured on the door handles, steering wheel and centre console and there is a blend of soft-touch technical grain plastic for the upper dashboard, with leather grain effect on the darker, lower section, accentuating the sense of space inside the cabin.

A large panoramic glass sunroof with integrated electric blind is also available, increasing the open and airy cabin atmosphere. It extends from the head of the windscreen to beyond the B-pillars, measuring 1,160mm long and 1,180mm wide. It is the largest one-piece roof of its kind in new Toyota Verso's class. The blind can be opened to any point along the length of the sunroof.

Toyota Easy Flat-7
New Toyota Verso offers all the versatility MPV buyers demand, in a more user-friendly way than ever before thanks to improvements to the Toyota Easy Flat-7 system.

Toyota Easy Flat-7 allows the five rear seats to be individually folded to carry extra passengers or increase load space as the occasion demands; in all 32 different seating permutations are possible.

In new Toyota Verso Easy Flat-7 has an improved mechanism that returns the second row seatbacks to their original position after being folded to give access to the third row. The headrests on the second and third row seats have a new low-profile L-shape to make the seat folding operation easier and improve rearward visibility from the driver's seat.

The third row seats can now be stowed or erected in one easy action, using just one hand with a pull-strap that can be reached from the tailgate. The third row seatbacks also gain a recline adjustment.

The height-adjustable front seats have better shoulder support and a seat base extended by 20mm to improve comfort, particularly on long journeys, while an increase of 40mm in the height of the front seat cushion gives the driver a better view from the wheel.

Support and cushioning have also been improved for second row passengers and a 30mm increase in the seats' sliding adjustment makes access to the third row of seats easier. The couple distance between the front and second row hip points has been increased by 50mm to a maximum 975mm, creating more rear legroom, and the height of the second row seats has been reduced by 35mm to give more headroom and make it easier for passengers to get in and out of the car.

The boot floor is completely flat when the second and third row seats are folded and is longer by 185mm at 1,830mm, making it easier to load long items. The cargo space is also wider by 240mm at 1,585mm, increasing storage capacity from 63 to 178 litres when all rear seats are in the upright position, compared to the current model. The result is a seven-seat MPV that can carry all passengers in comfort, with ample space for luggage, too.

A new boot management system is located under the rear loadspace, handy for keeping valuable items out of sight or stowing the tonneau cover. Its capacity varies according to how many rear seats are in use, and whether a full-size or space-saver rear wheel is specified.

Generous storage throughout the car also includes a large double-deck glovebox, an overhead console, generously proportioned door pockets, fold-out seatback tables with cupholders, a spacious centre console box, a drawer beneath the front passenger seat, second row underfloor storage and driver and passenger pockets for holding mobile phones or music players.

Noise, Vibration and Harshness
Special attention has been paid to reducing NVH levels in new Toyota Verso to best-in-class levels for a C-segment MPV, comparable to those for many D-segment passenger cars.

As well as using traditional acoustic damping techniques, Toyota Verso marks the world-first application of a two-piece upper and lower liner on the cabin side of the bulkhead. Density of the liner is optimised only at the most critical points to avoid any necessary weight gain. A second acoustic liner on the engine side of the bulkhead combines with under-bonnet insulation to further reduce engine noise intrusion.

Tuned floor silencing panels are installed beneath the seats and in the spare wheel well, and a new acoustic material is used for the first time in a Toyota to insulate and absorb noise in the footwells.

Cruciform bracing that ties the instrument panel structure to the A-pillar, crossbeam and floor helps minimise dashboard vibrations. A second beam, bracketed to the floor, runs across the car beneath the rear seats. Wheelarch liners and resin rocker mouldings help reduce stone chip clatter and an insulator between the A-pillar and inner wing further isolates the cabin from noise intrusion.

These measures combine with an aerodynamics package that gives a class-leading drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.295 to reduce cabin noise significantly (by 2.5dBa) compared to the current model.

TOYOTA OPTIMAL DRIVE POWERTRAINS
New Toyota Verso benefits from Toyota Optimal Drive, adopting innovative technologies to minimise fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, increase power and maximise driving pleasure.

These diverse core technologies focus on three aspects of powertrain development:

* The reduction of powertrain weight through the use of super-lightweight and highly compact engine components and transmissions.
* The minimisation of mechanical losses through the adoption of Valvematic (a further development of VVT-i), new roller rocker technology, smaller and lighter pistons, low viscosity oil and new six-speed manual and Multidrive transmissions.
* The maximisation of combustion efficiency, achieved by adopting high compression ratios, refinement of intake port and combustion chamber design and the introduction of oil jet piston cooling. All Toyota Verso diesel engines benefit from an upgraded fuel injection system.

Three engines will be available in new Toyota Verso at launch in the UK: two petrol engines, 1.6 and 1.8-litre Valvematic units, which give a best-in-segment combination of power and CO2 emissions; and a revised 2.0-litre D-4D 130 diesel. A 2.2-litre D-4D 150 D-CAT diesel will join the range later in 2009 with a new six-speed automatic transmission.

The new 1.6-litre Valvematic is matched to a new six-speed manual transmission. Compared to the 1.6 VVT-i engine featured in the previous generation Toyota Verso, power has been increased by 22bhp (22 DIN hp) to 131bhp (132 DIN hp), and maximum torque by 10Nm to 160Nm at 4,400rpm. Provisional figures show CO2 emissions down by 17g/km to 161g/km and combined cycle fuel consumption improved from 37.7 to 41.5mpg.

The 1.8-litre Valvematic engine offers the choice of the new six-speed manual gearbox or Multidrive S, Toyota's latest continuously variable transmission technology. It marks significant improvements in power, torque, emissions and fuel economy over Toyota Verso's previous 1.8 VVT-i unit: power is up by 18bhp (18 DIN hp) to 145bhp (147 DIN hp), torque increases by 10Nm to 180Nm at 4,600rpm; CO2 emissions are down 19g/km to 165 g/km (manual), and combined cycle fuel consumption improves from 36.7 to 40.4mpg (provisional CO2 and mpg figures).
With the Multidrive S transmission, CO2 emissions are expected to be 164g/km and combined fuel consumption 40.4mpg, figures which represent the system's advantages over conventional automatic transmissions.

Toyota Verso also gains a revised 2.0-litre D-4D diesel engine that develops a maximum 125bhp (126 DIN hp) and 310Nm from 1,800 to 2,400rpm, with 140g/km CO2 emissions, a best-in-class figure for the core 110-140bhp power range in the seven-seat MPV C-segment.

The 2.2-litre diesel engine featured in the current Toyota Verso range is carried forward for the new model and will be available to UK customers later in 2009. Output is increased to 148bhp (150 DIN hp), and maximum torque up to 340Nm, available from 2,000 to 2,800rpm. Equipped with Toyota D-CAT clean diesel technology, it produces 178g/km of CO2 and returns 41.5mpg in combined cycle driving (provisional figures). This engine will be matched to a new six-speed automatic transmission.

Ride and Handling
New Toyota Verso has been designed to give the agile handling, body control, stability and ride comfort of a conventional passenger car with its all-new high-rigidity body shell, longer wheelbase, wider front and rear tracks and extensively revised suspension geometry.

Aerodynamics
New Toyota Verso has a class-leading drag coefficient of 0.295 thanks to a carefully judged design that is fundamental to the car's body control, high speed stability and reduction of wind noise.

Particular attention has been paid to the flow of air beneath the car, with a smooth underfloor, wheel spats and wing-shaped vertical fins contributing to the control of vertical body movement and optimisation of front and rear lift coefficients. The result is a flatter straight-line ride, more controlled yaw response and better rear stability, notably in cross-winds.

The Suspension
The MacPherson-type front suspension has a new set-up with dual top mounts: a stiffer, outer mount locating the spring and a softer inner mount locating the damper. With increases in the caster angle and roll rigidity, the new format gives optimum handling with low noise transmission and excellent ride comfort.

The compact, lightweight rear torsion beam with integrated anti-roll bar has also been revised with adjustment to trailing arm angle to improve steering response. The spring and damper mounts have been separated to improve packaging efficiency, ride comfort and handling.

The Electric Power Steering
For the first time in Europe, Toyota has added active steering force compensation to its variable assistance Electric Power Steering in new Toyota Verso. If the system detects a steering input speed that is too high for the required vehicle response, it will automatically reduce power assistance delivery to limit the input and so promote smoother driving.

When the steering column torque sensor detects vibration from the wheels, an active vibration control programme with the ECU can produce a compensating signal to reduce the vibration before it reaches the steering wheel.

Brake and Tyres
New Toyota Verso is equipped with the latest ABS and VSC+ braking and stability systems, incorporating electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) to give much shorter stopping distances.

SAFETY

New Toyota Verso benefits from upgraded active, passive and pedestrian impact safety features and has a highly rigid, impact-absorbing body shell with a higher proportion of high tensile steel. These elements are designed to earn it a top five-star rating in the new, more stringent Euro NCAP crash test programme.

Active Safety
A full range of active safety systems are available for new Toyota Verso, including the latest-generation ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

The intelligent steering assist VSC+ system, fitted as standard, counteracts under or oversteer by independently applying braking force to any of the four wheels, while simultaneously generating counter-steering torque to help the driver bring the car under control. Traction Control (TRC) contains wheelspin and Steering Torque Assist counters vehicle yaw moments under braking or acceleration.
Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) provides extra control when pulling away on a gradient, preventing the vehicle from rolling backwards.

Passive Safety
Seven airbags are fitted as standard: driver front passenger front and side airbags, front passenger knee airbag; and curtain shield airbags that extend the full length of the cabin to protect occupants in both rows of rear seats - a feature that is rare in the compact MPV segment.

The front seats have active anti-whiplash headrests and all seats are linked to a seatbelt reminder system on the instrument panel. Further protection against leg injuries is provided for driver and front passenger by energy-absorbing pads built into the front footwells.

Side impact forces are channelled across the floorpan and through roof strengthening members and, in a first for a Toyota vehicle, energy absorbing pads are located on the door belt line and rear passenger hip point to reduce injuries.
A high-resistance seat rod is positioned beneath the rear seats and secured on each side of the cabin, further helping to absorb side impacts.

Pedestrian Impact Safety
New Toyota Verso's bonnet has an energy-absorbing structure and a crushable cowl at its rear edge. The wiper motor and linkage have been relocated lower down on the firewall, further away from the point of impact should a pedestrian be hit.

The bonnet lock is set well down from the upper bonnet surface and the construction of the front end of the car incorporates upper and lower leg impact absorbers, with additional absorbers located where the rear edge of the bonnet meets the upper part of the fender.

Hyundai ix35

2009-12-31T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hyundai ix35

The Hyundai ix35 development team moved away from the two-box off-roader look in favor of a sleeker, more reformed profile while aiming for a roomier cabin, extra storage capacity and fuel economy leadership.

Hyundai's new "fluidic" design language finds confident expression in the sweeping, gently curved lines of the Hyundai ix35. The hexagonal grille previewed on the Hyundai ix-onic concept at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show moves into mass production on the Hyundai ix35, a defining look that will serve to unify the family of future Hyundai products. To achieve the desired dynamic and sporty image, Hyundai ix35 gets an aggressive belt line coupled with a low-to-the-ground feel which is enhanced by the optional 225/55 R18 wheels.

The interior lines echo the dynamic flow of the sheet metal. For improved comfort, the designers have carved out extra legroom and headroom (whilst lowering the overall height of the vehicle). The feeling of spaciousness in the cabin is further enhanced by the new dual-panel panoramic sunroof, benefitting front and rear passengers. The center panel can either tilt open or can open completely by sliding up and over the rear panel.

The gauge cluster - with blue backlight - borrows Supervision technology from the Genesis sedan to display key information with crystal-clear clarity and minimal eye stress.

The Hyundai ix35 rides on a 2640mm wheelbase which is 10mm longer than the outgoing Hyundai Tucson. At 4410mm and 1820mm, it is also longer and wider than its predecessor (by 85mm and 20mm, respectively) greatly improving the interior cabin space but the overall height of 1660mm has been lowered by 20mm without affecting headroom.
Hyundai ix35

Greater travel in the front seat adjustment gives more legroom and headroom for taller drivers. The centre console box has been enlarged to 6.2 liters for more storage. In addition, the height of the rear cargo screen has been raised for extra capacity and a small storage binnacle has been added in the rear cargo area.

To further broaden its appeal, Hyundai ix35 will get the newest fuel-efficient engines and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Western European customers will be offered a choice of two thrifty and clean-burning petrol engines: the Theta-II 2.0 rated at 166ps and 20.1kg.m of torque which emits just 178g/km (2WD MT) of CO2 and the Gamma 1.6 GDI delivering 140ps and 17kg.m of torque, available from November 2010, which delivers only 158g/km of CO2. This 1.6 GDI engine will be available with ISG stop-start technology, further reducing CO2 to just 149 g/km.

The European diesel lineup includes two all-new engines: the R 2.0 and the U-II 1.7, which will be available from November 2010. The R 2.0 will come in a choice of two outputs: high (184ps/40kg.m) and low (136ps/32kg.m) producing CO2 emissions of just 165g/km (2WD MT) and 158g/km (4WD MT), respectively. The U-II will have a rated output of 115ps with 26.0kg.m and will have class-leading CO2 emissions of just 149 g/km (2WD MT) when equipped with ISG. To achieve Euro-5 emission compliance, the R is fitted with a close-coupled diesel particulate filter plus highly efficient exhaust gas recirculation with by-pass valve.

Six-speed manuals are standard with both diesels while the R will come with the option of a six-speed automatic. Hyundai's all-new six-speed automatic transaxle helps the company meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of sporty-type, manual shifting through the Shiftronic which is also new to the Hyundai ix35.

The new fuel-efficient engines and transmissions, the Hyundai ix35 features a number of other innovations which contribute to lower operational costs. Nestled between the speedometer and tachometer, the "ECO" coach is a new feature designed to promote fuel-saving driving habits. In the manual transmission version, an icon on the LCD trip-ometer screen begins to flash when the optimum gear shift point is reached. The automatic uses an "ECO" icon backlit by LEDs with either the red, white or green LED lighting up in accordance with driving behavior. Fuel savings in the range of 15 to 17 percent are attainable with the automatic "ECO" coach and 7 to 9 percent with the manual.

The multi-link rear suspension was adopted not only for its superior ride and handling characteristics but also because of its compact design which minimizes intrusion into the cabin creating extra space for passengers and cargo. Tried and true Macpherson struts are employed for the front suspension set-up.

Extensive work was done to isolate sounds and eliminate vibrations. Hyundai ix35 is discernibly quieter both at highway speeds and at engine idle. Booming noise is reduced thanks to a sub-frame dynamic damper while the rear luggage area gets extra soundproofing to isolate exhaust sounds. Road noise has been minimized by improving stiffness in the front and rear struts, rear trailing arm and the spring sheet.

The body shell structure is engineered to the very highest standards of safety: In crash safety tests conducted in-house Hyundai ix35 scores a five-star rating in Euro NCAP testing for both frontal and side impacts. The entire body shell has been made stiffer and lighter thanks to its more extensive use of ultra-high tensile strength steel.

In a panic braking situation, the emergency flash signals are automatically triggered thus reducing the risk of rear-end crashes. Active headrests are triggered by the pressure of the seat occupant's weight on the backrest, the headrests automatically moving upwards and forwards to help prevent injuries to head, neck and upper body.

The 4WD capability, Hyundai ix35's CUV credentials are strengthened with two new safety features: Hill start Assist Control and Downhill Brake Control which promote safer travel up and down steep slopes.

For safer maneuvering in reverse gear, a rear-view camera has been added, which operates in conjunction with a 3.5-inch color LCD built into the rear-view mirror. Smart-Parking Assist uses the rear-view camera to provide a graphical grid overlay to safely guide the driver into the parking spot.

Other new features:
= Push button start with smart-key proximity sensor
= Manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel
= Steering wheel-mounted audio remote control
= Air-conditioned, cooled glove box
= Low rolling resistance tires for 16" wheels

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept

2009-12-31T17:19:00.000-08:00

Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept

The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is an answer to the world of automobiles and individual mobility moving towards energy efficiency, environmental compatibility and uncompromised safety - along with dynamic attributes and driving fun. In its efforts to offer pure driving enjoyment, while meeting its ecological and social responsibilities, Mazda has been focusing on weight reduction as a core base technology. For 20 years, reducing weight has been a tradition with the Mazda MX-5. It provided the inspiration for the radical design of Mazda's latest show car and its radical interpretation of the cult roadster.

This year Mazda celebrates the 20th anniversary of the first Mazda MX-5 roadster, which laid the cornerstone for its Zoom-Zoom brand philosophy - reason enough for Mazda designers to create a fully-drivable show car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept. There are no plans to build this car, but it demonstrates how individual mobility can be maintained in a way that uses fewer natural resources.

Mazda's European R+D centre in Oberursel has created a show car that represents the essence of Mazda's fun-to-drive aspect. Based on the brand icon Mazda MX-5 Roadster, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is a pure, uncompromising two-seat sports car meant to be affordable to just about anyone. The main challenge for the design team in creating this roadster was "to evolve the MX-5, developed to perfection during the last 20 years, to a higher and extreme level," says Project Lead Designer Hasip Girgin. The result of their efforts is a roadster show car with an exciting design that is especially lightweight and distilled down to the very basics of sporty driving, that still manages to provide modern safety technologies. In an increasingly digitalized world, it creates a linear, direct bond between man and machine. Its conceptual purity means even better driving dynamics and fuel efficiency, which is accomplished by keeping the vehicle below the 1000 kg threshold. As a show car for lightweight construction and driving enjoyment, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is the ideal ambassador for Mazda's brand values.

Exterior Design

The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept was to strengthen these bonds even further. By doing this without a windshield, the retractable top and its frame, designers achieved an important step in this direction. As the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept, the allweather production roadster has mutated into a driving machine that lets sports car enthusiasts enjoy the natural surroundings unfiltered and tangible. Not only does the wind blow unimpeded during driving, pilot and co-pilot can also experience the sounds, smells and temperature changes of their immediate surroundings. And finally, the show car's intense bond between the driver and the technology of the vehicle gives it a unique closeness that can only be found in stronger form in the cockpit of a race car.

Mazda designers created special roll-over bars, not only because they are very sporty-looking, but also to contribute to aerodynamic efficiency. These also make it clear that roll-over protection is important in this concept. And they prevent wind turbulence around the heads of the passengers, from whom the law would require the wearing of helmets while driving.

By removing equipment not vital to driving, and by replacing vital things with components that support the unique concept of the vehicle, designers sharpened the character of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept.

Because there is no windshield, for instance, there is obviously no need for wipers. The roadster show car's completely open design makes the need for outer door handles, side windows and their openers unnecessary. A single, filigree aluminium, wide-angle mirror gives a good view of the road behind. It's placed inside an extension of the bonnet. Front and rear lights are the same as those of the production model with additional LED lamps at the front, and brake lights at the back of each roll-over bar, which contribute to the roadster's sporty look.

The lack of a windshield required an extension of the original aluminium bonnet into the cabin. The attached sheet here is made of lightweight carbon fibre and provides a hood for the dashboard frame.

This also changed the proportions of the body's design, making the front of the car longer and the passengers seem like they are sitting further back towards the rear-drive axle, all of which is enhanced by the massive roll-over bars and their aerodynamic cladding. The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept translates the dramatic proportions of historical race cars into a very modern form.

Interior Design

The purity in design of the exterior also characterizes the interior design, which does not have aesthetics as ultimate goal, but was conceived to contribute to reducing vehicle weight. Driver and passenger of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept are greeted by racing bucket seats made of ultra-lightweight carbon fibre. They are slide adjustable and upholstered with the same saddle coloured leather as the armrests, the steering wheel, and the lightweight aluminium shift lever and hand brake. Colour-coordinated four-point seatbelts hold the driver and passenger firmly in their seats.

The bonnet extension into the passenger cell provides a canopy for the dashboard, which makes the dashboard look smaller than the production Mazda MX-5. Made of lightweight plastic reinforced with fibreglass, it contains the same instruments as the production Mazda MX-5. These are held in place by a dashboard frame made of lightweight carbon fibre. Like a purebred race car, the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept has an ignition button in the centre of the dashboard, along with two emergency kill buttons for immediate fuel and electricity cut-off.

Supplying air and climate control to the open passenger compartment is only possible in limited form, so the show car has no air conditioning and no fans. Air-flow is increased when the roadster accelerates, and only small air vents are needed. The interior is made without any trim. Sound insulation mats and rugs do not meet the requirements of a purist roadster like this and are not used at all.

Made of ultra-lightweight carbon fibre is the "floating-design" centre console with iPod adaptor and the triangular reinforcements in the trimless doors. Driver and passenger can rest their arms here while driving.

Driving Dynamics

The Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept is fully-drivable, but there are no plans to produce it in the near future. Under the bonnet is the cultivated and frugal MZR 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine paired to the production roadster's five-speed manual transmission. It develops 93 kW/126 PS of maximum power at 6,500 rpm. For an appealing engine sound, there's a Mazdaspeed cold-air intake made of polished and powder-coated aluminium and a Mazdaspeed exhaust system, both of them specific to the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept. These systems deliver more intake air-flow, and less exhaust-gas back pressure.

The engine sound is designed to suggest an engine with much higher displacement than the concept actually has. During charge cycles, a high-resonance bubbling sound in the muffler delivers the exciting sporty sound you expect from a very powerful engine.

The show car is designed to provide improved driving dynamics as well, and uses a four-piston, fixedcalliper brake system with perforated discs that, because of their size required an increase in track of 50 mm. A specially tuned chassis with a Bilstein B16 coil-over suspension and Eibach estabilisers give the body of the Mazda MX-5 Superlight Concept a ground clearance that is 30 mm lower than the production Mazda MX-5. Its sporty hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion steering system is the same as that of the regular roadster. Its linear steering, coupled to a precise-shifting five-speed manual transmission with short shift travel, have contributed to the character of the world's most successful roadster for years.

Technical Specifications

* Body Type : Roadster Monocoque
* Seating capacity: 2
* External Dimensions
o Overall length: 4,020 mm
o Overall width: 1,720 mm
o Overall height (unloaded): 1,110 mm
o Wheelbase: 2,330 mm
o Track (front/rear): 1,540/1,545 mm
o Ground clearance: 106 mm
* Engine: MZR 1.8-litre petrol
* Max. power: 126 PS (93 kW) at 6,500 rpm
* Max. torque: 167 Nm at 4,500 rpm
* Transmission: 5-speed manual
* Front/rear suspension: Double wishbone/Multi-link
* Damper (front/rear): Bilstein® monotube
* Tyre size: 205/45 R17
* Brake type (front/rear): Ventilated discs/Solid discs
* Brake diameter (front/rear): 300/280 mm
* Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8,9 s
* Fuel consumption (combined): 6,3 l/100km
* CO2 emissions (combined): 150 g/km
* Min. kerb weight (without driver): 995 kg

Daewoo Matiz Creative

2009-12-31T17:16:00.000-08:00

Daewoo Matiz Creative

Based on GM's global mini-vehicle architecture, it took 27 months to develop the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative. KRW 295 billion has been invested in the vehicle's development. Following its launch in Korea, the global mini will be sold in over 150 markets around the world including those in Europe, Asia and North America.

Aimed at meeting the highest quality and performance standards in the most sophisticated markets, the global vehicle was put through over 1 million kilometers of intensive durability tests, extreme weather tests, and crash tests both at home and abroad.

With roof-rail curtain air bags and high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel over a majority of its body, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative ensures segment-leading occupant protection.

With a revolutionary design, advanced technology, segment-leading features and benchmark safety, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative offers much more than a mini.

Segment-Leading Size and a Dynamic Exterior

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative is a car that is ideal for those with an urban lifestyle. With the styling of a sporty hatchback, it showcases the new direction of GM Daewoo design and a new trend in the design of mini-cars.

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's roomy proportions and dynamic styling are courtesy of its segment-leading length of 3,595 mm, height of 1,520 mm, wheelbase of 2,375 mm, and width of 1,595 mm combined with its "body-in/wheels-out" stance. Dramatically sized headlamps that literally stretch from the front fascia to the back of the hood, with clear polycarbonate lenses and chrome-coated bezels, resemble diamonds, adding an upscale appearance and glamour.

A window line that is slanted dynamically upward, an arching roofline and sharp sidelines bring a sporty yet edgy look, a rarity in the segment. Secret vertical rear door handles located in the C-pillar are another unusual feature. They give the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative a unique, sporty three-door coupe appearance without sacrificing five-door utility.

A first-in-segment offering of an integrated rear spoiler as standard equipment essentially extends the rear roofline, for enhanced aerodynamic performance and provides a stable stance in high-speed driving as well as increased fuel efficiency. Round taillamps with clear polycarbonate lenses add to the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's strong rear impression.

A chrome-coated radiator grille and fog lamps, outside mirrors with two-tone color, and a refined-looking roof rack are other design cues that transport the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's styling beyond that of a mini.

The Unique Interior Defined By Fun, Fashion and Functionality

The design revolution continues inside the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative. While pursuing a harmonious theme with the dynamic exterior, the interior is more about functionality.

With its wider track and longer wheelbase, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative provides best-in-segment front legroom, rear legroom, front headroom and rear hiproom, resulting in generous space and comfortable accommodation for five adults.

The flowing interior weaves together the instrument panel, front seats and door trims, creating an environment that is harmonious, uninterrupted and inviting to the senses. An exterior-color-matched instrument panel and door trim appliqués offered in red, blue or silver enhance the unified design of the interior and exterior.

The most striking design element in the interior is a motorcycle-inspired dynamic meter cluster. The first-in-segment steering column-mounted instrument cluster combines analog and digital systems, contributing fun and unique styling as well as enhanced visibility and convenience. A trip computer in the dynamic meter cluster is another first-in-segment feature.

Adding to the refined look is an integrated center stack design that eliminates the traditional "picture framing" layout and results in a contemporary, stylish relationship. LED-lit ice blue illumination adds to the urban, edgy styling.

Pattern-printed semi-bucket seats provide a stable feeling when cornering. With high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship, they also enhance the luxurious interior atmosphere.

The new 1,000-cc DOHC Engine Delivers Power and Fuel Economy

Newly developed for the next-generation global mini at GM Daewoo, the S-TEC II engine - a 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine with a displacement of 1,000 cc - delivers great performance and fuel economy.

The S-TEC II engine includes a series of advanced features that enhance performance. The first-in-segment application of the PDA (Port De-Activation) system ensures high exhaust gas recirculation, resulting in combustion stability at low speeds and optimal performance at high speeds together with improved fuel efficiency. In addition, the PDA system contributes to a reduction in emissions, making the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative a truly eco-friendly vehicle that meets the stringent KULEV (Korea Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle) standard.

Another first-in-segment application is an automatic temperature controller inside the engine, which helps improve fuel efficiency by reducing unnecessary heat loss. A dome-type long-skirt cylinder block narrows the space between intake valves while the application of four resonators reduces engine noise.

Mated with the efficient S-TEC-II engine is a 4-speed automatic transmission tuned to GM's global standards that provides enhanced shifts for an outstanding ride.

The Solid Structure and Advanced Chassis Ensure Pleasurable Ride and Handling

The ride and handling of the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative also set it apart from any other vehicle in its segment. Adopting the body-frame integral (BFI) system, the upper body structure and frame are engineered as a single unit, resulting in better feel of the road along with a heightened sense of firmness and stability, and enhanced connectivity between the driver and vehicle.

A McPherson strut front suspension combined with a four-point mounted long engine cradle and a width power reduction spring enhances the solidity of the entire chassis, for improved crash safety and driving performance. A rear compound crank torsion beam incorporates a tubular V-beam for more effective tuning and dynamic performance.

A first-in-segment triple acoustic absorbent structure and special underbody structure prevent noise inflow from outside, for optimal quietness. Wind noise is minimized through the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative's aerodynamic body line and detailed door sealing structure.

Benchmark Safety: Class-Transcending Use of High-Strength Steel

A host of structural enhancements combined with a full offering of active and passive safety systems makes the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative a segment leader in its class.

Its body is the stiffest in the mini segment; 66.5 percent of its body is constructed of high-strength steel or over 16 percent is comprised of ultra-high-strength steel. This ensures the highest level of protection in the segment.

Ultra-high-strength steel applied to the side structure minimizes the chance of the structure deforming in the event of a crash. High-strength steel is also used in the rear body structure to protect passengers as well as the fuel tank, minimizing the possibility of fuel leakage during a collision.

The four-point mounted long engine cradle protects passengers in the event of a head-on collision by optimally dispersing crash loads. The steering column features an extended impact protection zone to enhance protection of the driver's torso.

The use of H-spider type ultra-high-strength steel bars in the underbody prevents severe deformation caused by a side crash. The tailor-welded blanking method used in the B-pillar ensures maximum protection of passengers' upper bodies. High-strength steel in the rear and first-in-segment rear crash boxes minimize the impact of whiplash.

The roof is especially stiff, for maximum rollover protection. The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative has been developed to withstand up to four times its weight - which goes far beyond industry regulations. As a result, GM Daewoo expects the Matiz Creative to receive the highest ratings in IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash testing in the U.S.

GM Daewoo engineers also factored in pedestrian safety. Ample space between the engine and hood reduces the chance of a secondary collision, meeting European safety regulations for the protection of pedestrians.

The first-in-segment application of front-end crash boxes for greater passenger protection adds an economical factor as customers will need to change only the crash boxes instead of repairing the entire vehicle in the case of a low-speed crash. As a result, the vehicle is expected to receive a good grade in the RCAR (Research Council for Automobile Repairs) test for determining customer insurance fees.

Besides driver, front passenger and side air bags, the GM Daewoo Matiz Creative also offers first-in-segment curtain air bags mounted on the roof rails to protect both front and back seat occupants. A 4-channel/4-sensor EBD-ABS system reduces braking distance and helps prevent skidding and rollover. Other safety highlights include seatbelt pre-tensioners, shock-sensitive door locks and rear parking assist sensors with a broad range.

Premium Convenience Features Go "Beyond Mini"

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative features an array of premium comfort and convenience amenities that one would expect in more expensive vehicles, including:

* Heated windshield wipers
* Roof rack
* Heated automatic outside mirror
* Speed-sensitive automatic door locks
* Tilt steering and a driver's seat armrest
* A particle filter for a pleasant dust-free interior
* 6:4 folding seats
* A wireless remote start key
* Various storage places
* A tire sealant compressor kit

The GM Daewoo Matiz Creative comes in three trim levels: Pop, Jazz, and Groove. It is priced from KRW 9.06 million for the entry-level Pop, from 9.44 million for the Jazz and from KRW 10.09 million for the Groove. (All prices include a 4-speed automatic transmission.) A manual transmission will be available starting early next year, giving consumers in Korea and overseas markets another option.

Technical Specifications

* Length: 3,595 mm
* Height: 1,520 mm
* Width: 1,595 mm
* Wheelbase: 2,375 mm
* Tread
o Front: 1,410 mm
o Rear: 1,417 mm
* Engine
o Valve Train: DOHC
o Displacement: 995 cc
o Max. Power: 70 PS at 6,400 rpm
o Max. Torque: 9.4 kg.m at 4,800 rpm
o Fuel Efficiency: 17 km / l
* Curb Weight: 910 kg

Honda Skydeck Concept

2009-12-31T17:14:00.000-08:00

Honda Skydeck Concept

The 2009 Tokyo Motor Show will mark the debut of the Honda Skydeck Concept, an innovative 6-seater hybrid MPV.
This is still a design study, but is a great example of how Honda's IMA technology can be placed in a range of different cars for different needs.
To give the Honda Skydeck Concept the practicality of a conventional MPV, many of the hybrid system components - including the high power battery - are housed in the car's centre tunnel (rather than behind the rear seats or under the floor, as with previous production hybrids). This allows for greater cabin space, and the room for three rows of two seats.
It also gives a lower centre of gravity.

Nissan Land Glider Concept

2009-12-31T17:11:00.000-08:00

Nissan Land Glider Concept

The Nissan Land Glider concept, planners and designers of Nissan have conceived a totally new form of personal zero emission mobility that combines clever, new driving experiences, all in the one compact, 4-wheeled package.

The thrills and freedom of bikes inspired the designers and engineers, an extra spice was added to the mix. Tandem architecture became the obvious choice. A unique two-seater, cocoon-like structure sitting on a zero emission powertrain. With four-wheel stability and a sense of safety that originates from a tilting cabin, the Nissan Land Glider Concept will appeal to both two- and four-wheel driving enthusiasts.

Targeted at city dwellers of all generations, the Nissan Land Glider Concept is a serious motoring statement of the new era of mobility that Nissan intends to lead.

Cocoon in the shell

The exterior incorporates a soft, sleek-looking body that appears to be protected by a special armor, The four-wheeler boasts a dynamic body design that almost seems alive. As part of Nissan's expanding zero emission family, the Nissan Land Glider Concept exudes a clean, friendly attitude."

The vehicle's two-seater tandem layout is enveloped in what seems like the canopy of a glider, while its unique `tilt' setup employs a special leaning function that holds occupants firmly in place even when the vehicle is cornering at angles. In developing the Land Glider, Nissan designers have created a two-seater that offers the sense of security of a cocoon, but delivers real driving pleasure.

Corner and lean

Described as a `personal city commuter,' the Nissan Land Glider Concept features steering-by-wire and a lean capability when cornering ? like a motorcycle ? that enables the vehicle and its tires to lean by up to 17 degrees. Able to turn sharply at nearly any speed, the Nissan Land Glider employs sensors for vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate to instantly calculate the level of lean required to negotiate a corner. All the driver must do is turn and the cabin will lean accordingly. By enabling the car to lean, designers have succeeded in minimizing vehicle width and tire tread width, thus achieving a sleek, futuristic look.

Driven by rear electric motors

Two electric motors in the rear powered by lithium-ion batteries mounted beneath the floor, the zero-emissions Nissan Land Glider Concept is quick off the mark. The car also features a non-contact charging system that can be charged whilst shopping at a supermarket or stopping at a motorway service station. This system enables vehicles to be charged cable-less at locations where the infrastructure exists.

Collision Avoidance

To ensure maximum safety whilst driving, engineers have fitted a car-robotics style crash avoidance system in which sensors mounted in the body detect other vehicles in the same way as fish swim in schools without colliding. This system directs the vehicle's path away from any obstacles.

Technical Specifications
* Overall Length: 3,100 mm
* Overall Width: 1,100 mm
* Overall Height: 1,415 mm
* Wheelbase: 2,180 mm
* Seating Capacity: 2

Toyota FT-86 Concept

2009-12-31T17:09:00.000-08:00

Toyota FT-86 Concept

The Toyota FT-86 Concept is 4,160mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,260mm high with a wheelbase of 2,570mm, giving it a compact feeling that is easy for the driver to handle while able to accommodate four occupants.
Toyota FT-86 Concept boasts the handling of a racing car as well as a 6-speed manual transmission and ADVICS brakes.

The stylish concept captures the heart with the "functional utility" of its highly-refined body. It is the creation of Toyota Europe Design Development known as ED2, which has established body lines that take into consideration a low center of gravity and aerodynamics.
The interior is distinctive, featuring an instrument panel with a gray and white base, gauges with red neon lights and digital displays, and a navigation system. A zipper that evokes an image of interior lapping with minimal covering of a highly-refined body presents a striking display.

The Toyota FT-86 Concept is neither an electric vehicle nor a hybrid vehicle, but is a sports model with a gasoline engine developed to convey the essential appeal of automobiles in a new era.
It is a must-see concept car that expresses TMC's desire to once again create a Toyota sports car.

The Small FR Sports Concept Vehicle that Combines Environmental Performance and the Joy of Driving

TMC seeks to develop the ultimate earth-conscious environmentally-considerate vehicle with a focus on hybrid technologies without losing sight of the appeal of cars themselves or the joy of driving.

Over the past several years, the need has been rising for motor vehicles that take into consideration global warming and other environmental issues, while there has also been concern that there have been too few new sports cars that make the heart beat faster and that the time is right for a new generation of sports cars.
In response to these needs, TMC has developed the Toyota FT-86 Concept, a sports car equipped with a 2,000cc, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated gasoline engine that evokes the joy of driving a car and the pleasure of vehicle ownership.
It is a compact, rear-wheel drive sports concept car that embodies speed and the excitement of driving that give cars their appeal as well as environmental performance.

Honda Accord Crosstour

2009-09-04T22:05:00.000-07:00

The Honda Accord Crosstour evolves the Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) concept by integrating a sleek and aerodynamic shape that blends sporty, low-profile contours with versatile CUV functionality.

The concept is to broaden the appeal of the Honda Accord line-up by leveraging traditional Accord strengths of fun-to-drive performance and handling while also adapting to dramatic shifts in the light truck. The Honda Accord Crosstour accomplishes that by offering a modern interpretation of a CUV while integrating the refinement and efficiency of a premium sedan."

The Honda Accord Crosstour maximizes car-like ride and refinement, yet maintains capabilities consistent with a CUV's increased ride height and all-weather potential. The Honda Accord Crosstour's styling builds on the Accord's familiar character lines and adds a bolder front grille complemented by a durable lower-body appearance, wedge-shaped C-pillars and an aggressive rear stance. The flowing roofline narrows smoothly into the rear of the vehicle to create an aggressive-looking design, which conceals a unique cargo area that can adapt to large objects that exceed the capacity of a sedan.

Hyundai ix35

2009-09-04T22:02:00.000-07:00

Design cues seen on Hyundai ix35 will be carried over to other new Hyundai models, most notably the pronounced hexagonal grille which will become a recognisable family attribute.

The Hyundai ix35 also has a smaller footprint than C-segment hatchbacks and MPVs, meaning it will also appeal to buyers who are seeking a more stylish alternative to conventional cars.

The sleeker styling contributes to enhanced aerodynamics. This, combined with more refined powertrain technology, enables Hyundai ix35 to deliver markedly better fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions than rival SUVs and compete head on in terms of running costs with mainstream hatchbacks.

Kia Venga

2009-09-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

A Kia's stylish and uniquely spacious new premium.

Designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, the 4,068 mm long Kia Venga features an unusually long wheelbase for its class of 2,615 mm - and a 1600 mm high roofline to maximise cabin space.

Skilful packaging will ensure that the Kia Venga redefines the category by offering levels of interior space typical of a larger C-segment vehicle, but within a B-segment footprint.

Every engine in the Kia Venga line-up will be available with Kia's fuel-stretching Intelligent Stop and Go technology and will comply with Euro 5 emission standards.

The Kia Venga will be equipped with a sliding 60/40 split rear seat that also folds flat into the floor to create a spacious cargo bay and, a twin-level boot floor and depending on model a tilt-and-slide all-glass panoramic roof.

"This is exactly the kind of vehicle UK motorists are looking for as we emerge from the recent economic turmoil - a fantastically flexible package providing big-car comfort and space within a compact package. It will offer our customers style, sophistication and refinement coupled with environmental economy," he added.

Mazda 3 MPS

2009-09-04T21:56:00.000-07:00

The next-generation Mazda 3 MPS is one of the world's most powerful front-wheel drive compact cars. It takes the all-new Mazda 3 hatchback as its base and raises it to new levels of driving excitement with an updated MZR 2.3-litre DISI turbo petrol engine, increased body shell rigidity and an evolved suspension. To this it adds exclusive design cues and materials to deliver a next-generation compact flagship that is even more fun to own and drive than the current model.

On top of its high performance level - one of the best in the category - the all-new Mazda 3 MPS was developed according to Mazda's long-term vision for technology development. Advanced Mazda engine and catalytic converter technologies mean the new model has an optimized power delivery, uses less fuel, and has cleaner emissions than the previous Mazda 3 MPS model.

Design - A More Expressive and Dynamic Design

The design theme for the all-new Mazda 3 called on the development team to evolve the model's visual identity to create a sportier, more aggressive appearance. The end result is a more emotionally appealing design that takes the sporty, agile compact nature of the all-new Mazda 3 hatchback to a new level of sporty refinement.

Exterior Design

A new air intake for the intercooler is introduced to the centre of the all-new Mazda 3 MPS bonnet, hinting at the power underneath. The front fender and front bumper designs are exclusive to the MPS, while subtle intonation added to the surface and character lines give the exterior an expressive and dynamic flair. The front grille and lower bumper sections share the same black metallic paint finish. These are framed by cylindrical bi-xenon headlamps and round fog lamps, to underscore the car's premium character.

Mazda 3 MPS
Silhouette and rear end

At the sides, subtle wedge-shaped and curving side character lines, along with a side under spoiler, accentuate the car's sporty, low centre of gravity. The view from the rear features a large floating rear spoiler (depending on market) that balances out the tight look begun by the new front end and adds to the compact's aggressive image. LED tail lamps have an inner lens that adds a sense of greater transparency when the lamps are not lit.

One the segment's best for aerodynamic performance

Beginning with the all-new Mazda 3 5-door hatchback, which has one of the segment's lowest coefficients of drag, MPS developers added a number of exterior features optimised for aerodynamic efficiency. These include the large front and rear bumpers, a large floating rear roof spoiler and front under spoiler. The result is aerodynamic performance that provides stability and easy control when travelling straight, changing lanes, or overtaking other vehicles at high speeds. The shape of the A-pillars and door mirrors were also designed keeping aerodynamic efficiency in mind, while increased rigidity around the door sashes, delivers improved sealing of the doors to reduce wind noise.

The Wheels and tyres

Mazda introduces all-new 18-inch (18 x 7.5J) aluminium alloy wheels designed exclusively for the Mazda 3 MPS using the same design theme as the Mazda RX-8 wheels. These have a strong, three-dimensional form that helps the car look nimble and aggressive when seen from the side.

The Interior design

Front seat area
The dashboard of the new Mazda 3 MPS is designed to give a roomy feel at the front. This is combined with a large centre console and a driver-orientated, wrap-around cockpit with just the right feeling of snugness. Exacting calculation was applied to designing the slant of the centre console and in positioning the gearshift lever closer to the driver.

New turbo boost gauge
The hoodless independent blackout speedometer and tachometer express sportiness through their design. The tachometer features a red MPS logo and a needle that travels 260 degrees as opposed to the 190-degree rotation on other Mazda 3 models. The instrument cluster for the all-new MPS also includes an LED turbo boost gauge positioned between the meters, which heightens the car's high-performance feel.

Semi-bucket front seats
The all-new MPS provides semi-bucket front seats for a great fit and exceptional torso and thigh support, a real must in a car this sporty. The front edge of the seat cushions is enlarged to improve the fit under the thighs, and the seatback length is extended to provide greater support. The MPS upholstery features an exclusive black base colour with a red graphic design and red stitching.

Materials and colour
Developers were careful in selecting materials and surface finishes for the interior that will excite the driver and passengers every time they take a seat in the car. Black is the keynote colour employed throughout the interior, while the seats and trim fabric have an organic red graphic design. This MPS-exclusive design is distributed throughout, with red stitching enhancing the sporty interior character on the steering wheel, seats, door trim, shift lever boot, and centre armrest.

Powertrain - Exhilarating Driving and Euro Stage V Compliance
The power and easy-to-control torque characteristics of the new Mazda 3 MPS turbo petrol engine are combined with an optimised gear ratio that ensures smooth shift operation for sporty driving. This is matched to a stiffer body, a suspension system with greater damping strength, Mazda's electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS), as well as specially tuned brakes. Together, they deliver a high-performance package with precise, controllable handling, and powerful braking that is fun to drive on a daily basis.

The Engine - high-performance DISI technology
The all-new Mazda 3 MPS is powered by Mazda's MZR 2.3L DISI Turbo, a high-power inline 4-cylinder petrol engine. This acclaimed engine has been further refined and now delivers a maximum output of 191 kW/260 PS at 5,500 rpm and the same generous maximum torque of 380 Nm at 3,000 rpm than the current model. This represents one the world's highest level of performance in a front-engine front-wheel drive sports compact.

High-performance compact
Pairing direct-injection with a turbocharger allows the engine to achieve performance that is on par with a larger displacement engine. Realising the right balance between lightweight and high rigidity through the effective use of high-tensile steel sheeting - including 1,480 MPa ultra-high tensile steel - means the new MPS body shell easily supports the top speed of 250 km/h and acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds.

Reduced fuel consumption and Euro Stage V
Yet, the new Mazda 3 MPS also delivers surprisingly good environmental performance and fuel efficiency for a car with this kind of power. Optimised aerodynamics helps reduce fuel consumption from 9.7L/100 km on the previous model to 9.2L/100 km on the all-new Mazda 3 MPS. Also newly introduced is the world's first single-nanotechnology, fast-reacting catalytic converter under the floor, which delivers cleaner emissions and Euro Stage V compliance.

High torque from direct-injection
The latent heat of vaporization generated by the MZR 2.3L Turbo when atomized fuel is injected directly into a cylinder at pressures of up to 11.5 MPa reduces the temperature in the combustion chamber (in-cylinder cooling effect) and improves air-fuel mixture charging efficiency. When compared to turbo engines injecting fuel via regular intake ports, this approach increases torque of the new Mazda 3 MPS by up to about 10 percent at around 3,000 rpm. This realizes a smooth flat torque profile with plenty of power that is easy to control using a single-scroll turbo charger. The intercooler is the same size as on the previous model, but the new air intake mounted on the hood delivers a supply of cool air that better ensures stable cooling performance.

The Advanced torque management
The stiffness of the left and right drive shafts is optimized to minimize torque steer. Engine optimizations help to make this powerful, high-torque front-wheel drive vehicle easier to handle when enjoying a sporty drive. These measures include intake volume and boost pressure control that suppresses sudden torque peaks for smoother, more linear torque characteristics and steering angle sensors (all gears).

6-speed manual transmission
The transmission of the new Mazda 3 MPS uses a compact, three-shaft design that keeps the overall length the same as a 5-speed manual transmission. It uses a wide gear ratio setting that can fully exploit the wide torque band of the DISI Turbo engine, with a sixth gear that contributes to a quieter ride and improved fuel economy when driving at high speed. Each gear is set to a higher speed total gear ratio than on the previous model. Of particular note is the natural feel of shifting between first and second gear as the car picks up speed, as well as the smooth feel of successive shifts while accelerating.

Triple-cone synchronizers for first, second and third gears and a double-cone synchronizer for fourth gear optimize the amount of strength required to make shifts and establish the right balance between a short, responsive stroke and pleasing feel to gearshift operation. In addition, the transmission uses low-viscosity fluid, which greatly reduces the effort required for shifting when the engine is cold.

Chassis - Safe and Predictable

High body rigidity and specially tuned suspension

Based on the highly rigid body of the Mazda 3 5-door hatchback, the all-new MPS version adds reinforcements inside the front cowl member gussets to strengthen the joints between the rear suspension towers and rear floorboard, and employs a large tunnel member. These and other local reinforcements effectively increase body rigidity and greatly improve the new model's dynamic robustness.

Suspension system

The coil spring rates for both the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension are modified exclusively for the MPS. Special tuning to support the high power of the MPS and provide satisfying driving performance also includes the introduction of larger diameter stabilizers than on the new Mazda 3 base model, and an increased span for the stabilizer mounts to achieve greater roll linearity. Special dampers for the MPS increase damping strength and combine with the coil springs and stabilizers to achieve higher roll stiffness than on the base model.

Newly-developed tyres
The Dunlop 225/40R18 tyres for the MPS are wider than on the previous model. By improving the grip of the tyres, the rigidity of their sidewalls and damping strength - along with the systems that bear the input from the tires, including body rigidity, suspension rigidity, and steering support rigidity - the new Mazda 3 MPS delivers response with a more direct feel, and a stronger sense of oneness between the driver and car. The result is a sporty drive that is more precise than on the previous model, even at high speeds. It delivers better response, greater stability and a flatter ride with fewer undulations, even when entering sharp curves or traversing wavy road surfaces. To ensure this, extensive high-speed test drives were conducted at Germany's Nürburgring.

Steering updates and EHPAS
The new Mazda 3 MPS now employs three highly rigid steering gear mount bushings instead of the two used on the previous model. The system also features electro-hydraulic power assisted steering (EHPAS), which adjusts control in accordance with vehicle speed and steering angle to realize precise, solid response for an outstanding feel to steering wheel operation. Control is set for more accurate response to vehicle speed, providing a lighter feeling at slower speeds and a firmer, confidence-inspiring feeling at higher speeds. Steering is direct and sharp at just 2.7 turns from lock to lock.

Robust brakes and new electronic brake assist
Large diameter 320 mm ventilated disc brakes in the front and 280 mm solid discs in the rear combine with an 8+9 inch tandem brake booster and 1-inch large diameter master cylinder to realize powerful and stable braking. Electronic brake assist replaces the previous mechanical system, and four-wheel ABS and DSC are also standard equipment.

Suzuki Kizashi Concept

2009-09-04T21:52:00.000-07:00

The Suzuki Kizashi Concept gives a glimpse of the direction Suzuki will be taking in the third phase of their world strategy.

Though Suzuki is known for excellence in compact cars and full-fledged four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicles, we're now getting ready to expand into full-size passenger cars, and the Suzuki Kizashi Concept highlights this exciting new initiative. In the Suzuki Kizashi Concept, strength and flexibility are combined in a way that makes the car an impressive status symbol for its owner; a car that never fails to stir the spirit.

Honda Pilot Prototype

2009-07-07T02:25:00.000-07:00

The prototype conveys the design features of the more boldly-styled 2009 Pilot, which emphasizes authentic SUV styling, clever and more accommodating interior packaging and advanced technologies for safety, fuel efficiency and convenience.
The functional eight-passenger seating, a hallmark of the Pilot, becomes even easier to access in the third row as key dimensions for legroom, cargo and occupant space increase in all seating positions. A redesigned platform allows even more refined handling and ride comfort to exist seamlessly with all-weather and medium-duty off-road capabilities.
The Pilot will feature the Honda-exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE) body structure and the most extensive use of high-strength steel in any Honda product to date.

The ACE body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. A pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle is designed to help absorb energy in the event of a collision.
A crossover SUV platform underpins the Pilot to provide the best of the car and truck worlds by integrating the refined traits and packaging advantages of a unit body car design with the utility and capability of an SUV design. A V-6 engine introduces the latest generation of Honda fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology that operates in 6-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, an improvement compared to the existing Pilot's available VCM system that works exclusively in 6- and 3-cylinder modes.

The three rows of seats provide a high degree of adaptability for people and large cargo loads. The first row provides a commanding view of the road from two captains' chairs. A wide center stack and center console form the styling anchor for the interior with a design that emphasizes spaciousness and power, while allowing for convenient access to navigation, entertainment and climate-control systems.
The 60/40 split second row, more spacious, slides further forward for increased ease of access to the third row. The 60/40 split third row, now supplies enough knee room for an above-average-sized adult male to fit comfortably, making the Pilot's third row among the most practical in the industry. Each side of the second and third row independently folds down for cargo. A flat floor is created when the second and third rows are folded down.
Among its numerous accolades, the Honda Pilot has earned Car and Driver Magazine's prestigious "5Best Truck" award on six consecutive occasions (2002-2007). The current-generation 2008 Pilot is also among an elite group of vehicles to receive both a "Top Safety Pick 2008" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a 5-star crash safety rating for frontal and side collisions from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Hyundai Veloster Concept

2009-07-07T02:23:00.000-07:00

The Style Hyundai's Design and Technical Center at Namyang, the Veloster (codenamed HND-3) coupe is the third in a series of daring concept cars to be developed by the central styling studio in Korea. The Veloster name, a compound of velocity and roadster evokes the sporty characteristics of a classic two-plus-two. A panoramic glass roof and other futuristic styling cues help project a high-tech image.

Designed to cater to the tastes of the Y-generation, Veloster combines simple, iconic design with good value and robust construction.

* Length: 4,100
* Width: 1,790
* Height: 1,450
* Wheelbase: 2,600
* Tires: 245/35 R 20
* Powertrain: FWD 2.0-liter DOHC Theta inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed automatic

Kia Sorento

2009-07-07T02:22:00.000-07:00

The Kia Sorento

The new Kia Sorento brings sleek styling and a futuristic touch to the world of the urban CUV, Longer and lower. With its longer front overhang, wedge profile, crisply defined greenhouse and accentuated wheelarch volumes, Kia's new CUV looks thoroughly modern and sporty.
The 4.7-metre long new Kia Sorento moves vehicle design in this segment up to a new level of sophistication.
As part of Kia's drive to expand market coverage with its latest CUV, the new Kia Sorento will be manufactured with a total of four engines - with different engines being available in various regions around the world in order to best suit local requirements and with CO2 emissions from just 173 g/km.

Bold frontal styling incorporates Kia's new 'signature grille' that blends seamlessly into the new Kia Sorento's four-light, black bezel wrap-around headlamps. The profile's rising upper belt-line and the dynamic bevel treatment beneath the greenhouse plus the unique trapezoid C-Pillar adds tension and endows new Sorento with a unique appearance. Extending the rear window to the outer edges of the simply styled tailgate hints at the spacious cabin and the large tail lamps enhance the sporty appearance.

During the development of the new Sorento, Kia engineers ditched the body-on-frame structure and designed an all-new unitary (monocoque) bodyshell with room for up to seven occupants. Building on those new foundations, they concentrated on eight key areas - class-leading performance, increased fuel economy, reduced emissions, improved on-road handling, more fun-to-drive responsiveness, greater cabin space and comfort, enhanced overall safety and the introduction of new technologies.

The new, longer bodyshell created for the new Kia Sorento, with its repositioned A-pillars and dashboard (moved forwards) and extended tailgate (moved rearwards), ensures that the cabin is much more spacious than the current model. The real and perceived quality of the cabin is greatly enhanced and available high-tech features will include: keyless entry, engine start button, reversing safety camera, built-in sat-nav and panoramic glass sunroof.

The new Kia Sorento's interior styling echoes the sense of power and dynamism created by the exterior appearance. Kia is confident that existing Sorento owners and new customers will be equally impressed by the cabin's generous proportions, sweeping dashboard design, high-quality fit, discreet trim accents and the availability of numerous high-tech features.

The thick-rimmed three-spoke steering wheel is becoming a Kia trademark feature and through it the driver can view another element of Kia's developing design DNA - the 'three-cylinder' instrument cluster. Similar to the cluster fitted to the latest version of Magentis and the recently-launched Kia Soul, the new Kia Sorento's cluster has clear and precise graphics.
Depending on the model, new Kia Sorento will be equipped with a six, eight or 10-speaker audio system, with MP3 and iPod connectivity, plus built-in or external amplifier and a new sat-nav system with a 6.5-inch screen. Remote controls for the audio system are mounted on the steering wheel.
The longer bodyshell created for new Kia Sorento ensures that the stretched cabin is much more spacious than the current model, with seating for up to seven people. Interior headroom is increased by 64 mm (to 906 mm) and legroom by 102 mm (to 795 mm). Luggage space in the new Sorento is amongst the best-in-class as cargo capacity is increased by 15per cent, thanks to moving the tailgate back by almost 70 mm.

During the design and engineering process to create the new Sorento, Kia's research and development team prioritized achieving a major improvement in the vehicle's refinement and minimizing its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). An excellent foundation for creating a vehicle with good NVH qualities is a stiff bodyshell structure and the new Kia Sorento features a much higher percentage (70.4per cent) of high-tensile strength steel compared to the previous model (40.0per cent).
Kia's all-new Sorento will be manufactured with up to four different engines to meet the needs of motorists in every region of the globe.
For the Korean market, Kia is offering the new Kia Sorento with three engines, including a version of its 2.7-litre V6 engine running on low-cost LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) called the 'Mu LPI'. This unit delivers 165 ps and 244 Nm - the reduced outputs are a consequence of using LPG which contains 25% less 'stored energy'. New Kia Sorento will also be available in the Korean market with the four-cylinder 2.4-litre Theta II petrol engine that delivers 175 ps and 225 Nm, as well as the new four-cylinder R2.2 diesel engine.
The all-new 'R' family of turbo-diesel engines proves that Kia's engineering capabilities are indeed world-class. The 2.2-litre engine comfortably out-performs most four-cylinder and many V6 units from rival brands, while complying with Euro 5 emissions standards thanks to their third-generation common-rail fuel system. The R2.2 generates a maximum of 197 ps and 435 Nm.

New Kia Sorento buyers will be offered a wide choice of transmissions and drivetrains - depending on model. Five-speed and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions will be offered. Both six-speed transmissions are new or upgraded.

Kia's all-new six-speed automatic transmission is a regular 'torque converter' automatic, but it incorporates a unique 'flat' torque converter, which allows the unit to be 54 mm shorter, has 62 fewer parts (than a five-speed unit), weighs 12 kgs less and boosts fuel economy by up to 12per cent over a traditional automatic transmission.
Traction is also boosted by the available HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) which prevents the vehicle slipping backwards, and DBC (Down-hill Brake Control) that limits vehicle speed to just 5 mph on steep declines.

For the new Kia Sorento, the suspension engineers' brief was to shift the handling bias a little to improve the on-road driving experience, in terms of ride quality and steering 'feel' - whilst retaining the vast majority of the previous model's off-road abilities. The suspension has been lowered by 10 mm and thanks to the new unitary (monocoque) bodyshell construction the centre of gravity has been lowered by 54 mm.

The MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension is 'carried over' from the previous model, but with significant improvements. The steering is now more direct, requiring fewer turns of the wheel lock-to-lock.
For maximum stopping power, all new Kia Sorento models are equipped with an all-disc braking system. Either as standard or an option, ABS anti-lock and EBD brake force distribution systems are available.
Reversing is made even safer by a new Kia Reversing Safety Camera mounted on the tailgate. This camera is fitted with a 130 degree wide-angle lens and transmits images to a 3.5-inch LCD display panel set within the cabin's rear view mirror whenever reverse gear is selected.
New Kia Sorento's robust all-new bodyshell structure delivers increased impact resistance. Using a much higher percentage (70.4per cent) of high-tensile strength steel the new vehicle achieves excellent rigidity and strength.

Mazda 3 i-stop

2009-07-07T02:20:00.000-07:00

The one way Mazda achieved this is to develop unique idle-stop technology that shuts down the engine when stopped in traffic jams and similar situations as a way to reduce fuel consumption.

The Mazda 3 will be powered by the MZR 2.0L DISI engine with green idle-stop technology - Mazda's unique i-stop system. Developed solely by Mazda, it is the world's only idle-stop system that restarts the engine using the remaining energy in the pistons (with a quick help of the starter motor) by injecting fuel directly into the cylinder and igniting it to force the piston down. The benefit of combining a DISI engine with i-stop (originally called SISS: Smart Idle Stop System) is that the system restarts the engine about twice as fast, and quieter, than conventional idle-stop systems.

Combining these two Mazda proprietary technologies and further measures like aerodynamic modifications, help the new Mazda 3 achieve approximately 14 percent lower fuel consumption (combined) than the previous Mazda 3.

When the driver stops the vehicle (red light, traffic jam) the engine stops automatically and sets itself to be ready for a prompt restart. As soon as the driver presses the clutch, the engine initiates the restart procedure automatically. This is a totally neutral operation for the driver.

The Mazda 3 i-stop Green Technology
When stopped at a traffic light or in a traffic jam, shutting off the idling engine can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 5 percent according to European city driving-mode tests. However, the drawback with conventional idle-stop systems is that they rely solely on the use of an electric motor to restart the engine. As such, they require a relatively long amount of time to achieve combustion in the engine when it restarts. In real-world driving, this means a lag between the moment the accelerator pedal is pressed down and the car begins to move, as well as vibration and noise.

The i-stop system for the new Mazda 3 leverages the DISI engine's direct-injection potential for improving fuel economy, restarting the engine quickly and quietly by injecting fuel directly into the cylinder and igniting it to force the piston down and set the crank in motion. The engine is controlled with precision to make this happen:

The Special engine requirements
In order to use combustion energy from the initial stage of restarting the engine, and to start the engine quickly, the following three conditions must be satisfied while the engine is stopped. (1) The engine must be able to inject fuel directly into the combustion chamber and ignite it; (2) an adequate amount of clean air must exist in the combustion chamber of the cylinder where the fuel is to be ignited; and (3) the computer control system must be able to determine which cylinder to fire immediately after starting the engine. The i-stop system, therefore, must use a direct-injection engine that can deliver fuel to the combustion chamber at high pressure, and that can easily ignite that fuel. Mazda's MZR 2.0-litre DISI petrol is the ideal engine to achieve this.

The Controlling piston position
The pistons are stopped in the appropriate position when the engine is stopped, an adequate amount of air is held within the combustion chamber, and the combustion chamber is properly scavenged to reduce the amount of unburned petrol. To this end, piston position is controlled by applying current to the engine's generator while the engine is being shut down. In doing so, it operates much like an electric motor, while using the signal from the crank angle sensor that monitors piston position as control feedback to stop the piston in the appointed position within its expansion stroke.

Special valve and crankshaft balance control
To scavenge the combustion chamber, the new Mazda 3 i-stop system momentarily opens the throttle valve slightly during the shut down process. (The throttle valve is normally closed when shutting off the engine.) Regular crank angle sensors are only able to determine forward rotation, which leaves them unable to monitor reverse rotation or to determine the correct piston position. Mazda's i-stop employs a crank angle sensor that is able to monitor crank rotation in both directions, enabling it to accurately determine the correct piston position. To maintain the proper crankshaft balance when the engine is stopped, it is rotated slightly in the reverse direction.

Faster restart + lower fuel consumption
These measures make it possible to properly inject fuel when the engine is restarted and control ignition advance, thereby allowing combustion energy to be used while the engine is stopped and to restart the engine in 0.35 seconds, roughly half the time required by conventional idle-stop systems. While Mazda's new i-stop system employs combustion energy to restart the engine, it is assisted by the starter for only the first few turns of the crank. This achieves the optimum balance between maximizing fuel savings while minimizing the amount of time required to restart the engine. As a result, it allows i-stop to reduce fuel consumption beyond what would be possible using combustion energy alone to restart the engine.

Driver support communication system
On the new Mazda 3 powered by the MZR 2.0 DISI engine, the i-stop system supports the driver by allowing visual confirmation of engine operation in relation to driving style. There is an i-stop on/off switch on the dashboard, and the driver cluster contains a light that displays "i-stop" when the system shuts down the engine in front traffic lights, for instance. When deactivated, an amber light shows that the i-stop system is not on.

Ensuring reliable operation
The new Mazda 3 i-stop system (only available with the MZR 2.0-litre DISI petrol) is equipped with an auxiliary battery that powers the system in the event that the main battery isn't properly charged or some similar problem occurs. This added control measure ensures that the driver can use the system naturally, without giving it a second thought. In addition, the system does not shut off the engine if the car is stopped on a road with an extremely steep grade, (greater than 14 percent incline).

Mitsubishi Outlander GT Concept

2009-07-07T02:15:00.000-07:00

The Mitsubishi Outlander GT Concept. Building on the success of the current Outlander, this sporty compact CUV.
Dressed in a premium Diamond white hue, the Mitsubishi Outlander GT Concept showcases a host of new technologies, such as Idle Neutral Logic that automatically shifts the transmission into neutral during vehicle standstill, improved performance and fuel economy from its more powerful 3.0-liter SOHC MIVEC V6 engine, and a Super-All-Wheel-Control System offering superior handling and control.