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Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Ferrari FXX Evolution, 2008

The innovative FXX programme, based on the eponymous prototype car and launched by Ferrari in June 2005, is being extended to 2008/2009. The Ferrari FXX, which is the most advanced GT ever created at Maranello, has been updated with an evolution package aimed at further improving its handling and performance. The package was developed as a result of Ferrari's collaboration with its Client Test Drivers and with the invaluable support of Michael Schumacher. The FXXs equipped with this package will also sport a new livery in addition to new rear wing profiles.

The Ferrari FXX is not homologated for road use and there are no plans to compete with it either. In fact, the Ferrari FXX prototype is designed exclusively for track driving as part of a specific R&D programme agreed with a selected group of just over 20 clients involving 14 group test sessions and 14 private ones in the last two years. Thanks to readings taken over the 16,500 kilometres of tests carried out in 2006 and the 18,500 kilometres covered in 2007, the modifications made to the car have focused on honing its aerodynamics, running gear and electronics. Seven-times Formula 1 World Champion Michael Schumacher also joined the ranks of the client test drivers and gave the programme the benefit of his vast experience on several occasions.

Maranello's engineers studied the wealth of information gained to develop a kit which will cut the FXX's Fiorano lap time to under 1'16'' (previously it was 1'18''). The Ferrari FXX's 6262 cc V12 engine can now punch out a massive 860 hp at 9500 rpm. Gearshifting takes just 60 ms, a drop of 20 ms on the previous time, and the gear ratios have been adapted to make use of the extra 1000 rpm now delivered by the engine.

The car's new traction control system, developed in close collaboration with the GES Racing Division engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than nine different settings (plus the off position) which are selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This means that the driver really can modify the car's behaviour on the track from corner to corner, just as the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and reduce tyre wear. The Ferrari FXX's traction control is also now less invasive and more flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driving style of each driver - a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme car was being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.

The Ferrari FXX's special 19" Bridgestone tyres now last longer too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes, which boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long. Thanks to the drivers' feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed new aerodynamic solutions aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle. The Ferrari FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear flaps which have combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% overall. The active front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to take these modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring of the steering angle and brake pump pressure will further boost the interaction between Client test drivers and the company's engineers also. From next year onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the existing rear-facing one. This will, of course, give the drivers excellent rear visibility without having to impinge in any way on the car's aerodynamics.

The Ferrari FXX Evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

Ferrari 430 Scuderia, 2008

Lightweight, simple and striking with a distinctive engine and exhaust sound: every last detail of the Ferrari 430 Scuderia exudes uncompromising sportiness as a direct result of its close links to the world of racing, which is reflected in the car's name: "Scuderia". Seven-times World Champion Michael Schumacher was also involved in the car's development, with the result that the most advanced single-seater technology is now available to Ferrari's sportiest and most passionate clients. With a dry weight of 2775 lb (1250 kg) and 510 hp delivered at 8500 rpm by its naturally aspirated 4308 cm3 V8 engine, the Ferrari 430 Scuderia boasts an extraordinarily low weight-power ratio of just 2.45 kg/hp, which allows it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. It can also complete a lap at Fiorano in a time comparable to that of the Ferrari Enzo, the Ferrari that has come to epitomise Maranello's philosophy of transferring F1 content to its road cars.

ENGINE AND ENGINE SOUND
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia's engine is an evolution of the Ferrari F430's 90° V8 which features a number of modifications to boost its specific power output from 114 hp/litre to 118 hp/litre. The inlet ducts and exhaust system have been optimised, most notably through the adoption of the exhaust geometries derived from the Ferrari F430 Challenge and the use of carbon-fibre on the

The Ferrari 430 Scuderia's compression ratio has also been increased to 11.88:1, thanks in part to a new piston design.

Particular attention was paid to achieving just the right sound from the engine and exhaust as this has always been one of the real trademarks of every Prancing Horse car. Cutting-edge calculation tools were employed to optimise the Ferrari 430 Scuderia's intake and exhaust systems and sound damping, with the result that the exhaust and engine sound inside the cabin is clear, powerful and particularly thrilling in full acceleration.
F1-SUPERFAST2 GEARBOX
The F1-SuperFast2 is an evolution of the F1 gearbox used on all of Ferrari's models and reduces gear-shifting times to just 60 ms, the fastest time of any of the models in the Prancing Horse range, the lowest overall of any automated-manual gearbox. Significantly, Ferrari calculates the gear changing time according to the acceleration gap, not just the time it takes to engage the gear. The various stages are implemented in parallel (non-sequentially). In the case of the F1-SuperFast2, genuinely innovative integrated engine and gearbox management programmes allow the combined disengaging/engaging of the gears to take place partly in parallel with letting the clutch in and out.

E-DIFF2: E-DIFF WITH F1-TRAC
The E-Diff2 (which is integrated with the gearbox) is one of the primary components which clearly demonstrate the Ferrari 430 Scuderia's links to the track. In use for many years now in Formula 1, it is integrated with the car's stability control system.

The Ferrari 430 Scuderia is the first high performance road car after the F430 to sport an electronic differential. Torque is continuously distributed between the wheels via two sets of friction discs (one for each driveshaft) controlled by a hydraulic actuator.

The amount of torque actually transmitted to the driven wheels depends on driving conditions and brings considerable advantages in terms of performance, direction stability, active safety and handling feedback.

RACING MANETTINO
The manettino has already featured in several of Ferrari's road cars but the Ferrari 430 Scuderia features the special Racing version which puts the emphasis firmly on track-specific sporty driving and provides the driver with even more choice in terms of the car set-up. With this in mind, the ICE setting available with the F430 has been removed and a new CT- (Traction Control Off) setting has been introduced. This deactivates the car's traction control, but unlike the CST position, retains the safety of the car's stability control system to ensure a level of safety is maintained.

BRAKES
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia boasts a specific braking system featuring CCM (carbon ceramic material) discs with specific dimensions to cope with the car's increased performance.

The front discs are now 18 mm larger than those on the F430 and are designed to dissipate the extra heat created by the higher performance and are even more hard-wearing for greater efficiency. These components, together with 6-pot calipers, guarantee blistering performance at all times and, equally importantly, consistently efficient braking during prolonged track use.

AERODYNAMICS
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia's external styling has been honed to improve its aerodynamic efficiency by increasing overall downforce whilst still retaining the same drag values as the Ferrari F430. The aerodynamic efficiency of the newly-styled rear diffuser has been enhanced by the addition of a revised profile for spoiler at the rear of the engine cover and by the large venturis that run from the front wheel houses to the rear bumpers, achieving the patented "Base Bleed" effect developed by Ferrari as part of the Ferrari FXX project. The Base Bleed effect has the double advantage of reducing the pressure in the rear wheel arch, thereby increasing downforce and lowering drag by blowing the car's "wake".

STYLING AND PERSONALISATION
The Ferrari 430 Scuderia's ultra-sporty character and blistering performance have led to the redesign of many of its exterior and interior styling features. This was done to give the F430-inspired model its own strong personality and to further enhance the aerodynamics of what is a very extreme car. The modifications made to the exterior focus on increasing downforce. In-depth research went into reducing the car's weight and has led to extensive use of carbon-fibre, including some of the bodywork components.

The cabin has been inspired by racing and, once again, the emphasis has been on weight reduction and using technical materials where possible.

Ferrari 430 Scuderia Technical Specifications

* Vehicle dimensions
o Overall length: 177.6 in (4512 mm)
o Overall width: 75.7 in (1923 mm)
o Height: 47.2 in (1199 mm)
o Wheelbase: 102.4 in (2600 mm)
o Front track: 65.7 in (1669 mm)
o Rear track: 63.6 in (1616 mm)
o Dry Weight: 2775 lb (1250 kg)
o Kerb Weight: 2975 lb (1350 kg)
o Weight Distribution: 43% Front, 57% Rear
o Boot capacity: 8.83 cu ft (250 l)
o Fuel tank capacity: 25.1 US gal (20.9 UK gal) (95 l)
o Brakes: Carbon-ceramic; Front 15.6 x 1.4 in (398 X 36 mm), Rear 13.7 x 1.3 in (350 X 34 mm)
o Tyres: Front 235/35 19", Rear 285/35 19"

* Engine
o Type: 90° V8
o Bore and Stroke: 3.26 x 3.19 in (92 x 81 mm)
o Total displacement: 263 cu in (4308 cm3)
o Compression ratio: 11.88:1
o Maximum power: 375.4 kW (510 CV) @ 8500 rpm
o Specific output: 118.4 CV/litre
o Maximum torque: 470 Nm (346.67 lb ft) @ 5250 rpm
o Maximum rpm: 8640 rpm (with limiter)

* Performance
o Acceleration
+ 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): under 3.6 s
+ 0-124 mph (0-200 km/h): under 11.6 s
+ 0 - 1000 m: 20.9 s
o Top Speed: 198 mph (320 km/h)
o Dry weight/Power: 5.4 lb/CV (2,45 kg/CV)

* Electronic Controls
o CST Stability and Traction Control with new traction control logic F1-Trac integrated with the electronic differential (E-Diff)

* Transmission and Gearbox
o Electronic differential: E-Diff2 (E-Diff + F1-Trac)
o Gearbox: F1, 6-gears + Reverse

* Fuel Consumption
o Combined: 15.7 l/100 km

* CO2 Emissions
o Combined: 360 g/km

Dodge Dakota, 2008

New for 2008 are striking exterior and interior enhancements that bear signature Dodge styling cues while creating a new persona for Dakota.

Powertrain selections
Dodge trucks have always earned a reputation as bold, powerful and capable. The powerful and capable parts of the equation in the 2008 Dodge Dakota begin with powertrain choices, which include a new V-8 engine -- the only V-8 option available in the mid-size pickup segment.

The new 4.7-liter V-8 offers better fuel economy, power and torque than the previous 4.7-liter High Output engine, while at the same time delivering improvements in refinement. The new 4.7-liter V-8 incorporates two spark plugs per cylinder (the only Chrysler Group engine to do so, other than the 5.7-liter HEMI), increased compression ratio, improved cylinder-head port flow and a new combustion system. The result is 290 horsepower, a 25 percent increase; and 320 lb.-ft. of torque, a 10 percent increase. The new engine is also capable of operating on E85 ethanol fuel, making the Dodge Dakota equipped with this engine a Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV).

Refinement improvements in the new 4.7-liter V-8 result from significant revisions to the induction system, a lightweight piston/rod assembly and reduced accessory drive noise through lower accessory drive speed. Engine smoothness at idle is enhanced with a new valve-lash adjuster system. The new 4.7-liter V-8 is also equipped with Electronic Throttle Control.

The new 2008 Dodge Dakota comes standard with a 3.7-liter Magnum V-6 engine producing 210 horsepower and 235 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine also comes with Electronic Throttle Control for positive throttle response, and exhaust gas recirculation to help lower emissions.

The new 2008 Dodge Dakota's powerplants are backed up by a choice of a six-speed manual transmission, standard on all V-6 equipped 2008 Dodge Dakota models except Laramie; a four-speed automatic with overdrive available with Dakota's V-6 engine; and a five-speed automatic available on V-8-equipped models.

For more capability when traction is at a premium, the new 2008 Dodge Dakota may be equipped with a transfer case featuring two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive with locked high and low ranges, or an available transfer case with full-time four-wheel drive as well as selections for locked high and low ranges. The 2007 Dodge Dakota is the only pickup in its segment to offer full-time four-wheel drive.

In addition to powerful and capable, Dodge trucks are also known as bold.
For that part of the equation, the 2008 Dodge Dakota's exterior includes a newly styled hood, grille, front fascia, rear spoiler, fenders and headlamps. The front end has been designed to improve aerodynamics and features better fit and gap management. The hood surface was designed to signify power and further amplify the drop-fendered, signature look for Dodge trucks. With these styling enhancements, the "face" of the 2008 Dodge Dakota is better aligned with the rest of the Dodge truck lineup.

Like the Dodge Nitro, headlamps are rectangular units primarily for a contemporary appearance, but also to maximize the surface area for better forward lighting. Reflectors are deep-set behind each lense to achieve a serious demeanor.

All-new fascias better integrate with the restyled grille and incorporate fog lamps. The 2008 Dodge Dakota's tailgate includes a new spoiler that helps smooth air flow over the rear of the truck to improve fuel economy, and the top surface of the cargo box has a new protective surface.

Interior loaded with form and function
The 2008 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab's Full Swing rear access doors open nearly 170 degrees - unique in the segment -- to an interior with class-leading room and seating for five. With rear seats folded, up to 30 cubic feet of storage space is available. A total of six storage hooks are located on the Extended Cab's rear interior panel.

Separately, the 2008 Dodge Dakota Crew Cab best-in-class room - 37.1 cubic feet -- and seating for up to six. With rear seats folded, a new under-seat storage system, a first for Dodge Dakota, is easily accessible. This system includes a unique, collapsible and removable cargo management system that enables gear to be organized and taken anywhere.

Other storage options are provided throughout the interior. For example, an additional storage bin is located above the glove box, providing easy access for everyday items. An all-new center console incorporates cup holders with modular inserts and a pull-out bin specifically designed to hold electronics such as an MP3 player (which can be plugged into any of the 2007 Dodge Dakota's audio systems), cell phone or Personal Digital Assistant. An additional power outlet is also provided.

Electronic choices include AM-FM stereo radios with MP3 capability and available SIRIUS Satellite Radio that delivers more than 125 channels of music, sports, news, talk and weather. Also available as stand-alone options are a 508-watt SoundBox system (available on Extended Cab models) and a DVD navigation system with turn-by-turn directions. A power accessory delay, standard on all 2008 Dodge Dakotas, allows power functions, including radio, to operate after the vehicle is turned off.

Dodge Dakota = versatility
The foundation of the new 2008 Dodge Dakota is a ladder-type frame, with main rails formed to precision tolerances under liquid pressure and fully boxed for strength and rigidity. All 2008 Dodge Dakotas feature independent front suspension with coil-over shock absorbers. The result is identical ride height for two- and four-wheel-drive models, which contributes to smooth ride and handling characteristics.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota continues to offer the largest and longest standard cargo bed in its class: 6-foot-6-inches in the Extended Cab. Built-in utility rails make cargo box tie-downs infinitely adjustable. The 2008 Dodge Dakota's dual-position tailgate may be secured in a mid-position, which provides support for extra-wide or -long cargo laid on top of wheel wells and extending beyond the end of the bed.

The new 2008 Dodge Dakota also continues to wear the crown for highest tow ratings in the mid-size pickup market, with towing ability of up to 7,050 pounds.

As a complete package, the 2008 Dodge Dakota is as safe as it is capable and versatile. Up front, octagonal front frame rail tips collapse rearward in an impact in order to absorb energy and deter force from the cabin. An anti-lock brake system is standard on rear wheels, and available on all four wheels.

Dodge Challenger Targa Concept, 2008

The Dodge Challenger Targa is a full-blown competition car that raced and completed the infamous Targa Newfoundland race this year. "Samantha" started life as a Mopar Challenger drag race package car. Many features were borrowed from the Dodge Viper, but the most noticeable is the snakeskin green paint. To keep the front end down, a Mopar chin spoiler "Splats" developed in a full scale wind tunnel, was added to the front of the car. Mopar gauges keep a close eye on the vital signs.

The Mopar hood is equipped with a scoop to make room for the 540-horsepower, 490 lb. ft. of torque, 392 HEMI V-8 Mopar crate motor. Mated to a Tremec six-speed manual gearbox, the engine blasts power to the rear wheels. An abundance of fade resistant stopping power comes from Stop-Tech brakes.

Up front, the six-piston calipers clamp 380-millimetre rotors, while in the rear, four-pot calipers work with 355-mm rotors. Developed by KW, the race suspension and brake upgrades came from a proven hero — the Dodge Viper ACR, which just broke the production car lap record at the world-renown Nurburgring in Germany. With only a few exceptions, the Dodge Challenger Targa was built using parts available through Mopar.

Citroen C5 Airscape Concept, 2007

C5 Airscape features powerful, dynamic exterior styling and an interior of exclusive design, made for driving pleasure and the comfort of three passengers. The original mechanism of the folding roof underlines the overall sophistication of design.

Styled for maximum appeal, C5 Airscape also delivers maximum performance. New-generation Snow Motion traction control provides a level of traction close to that of a four-wheel drive. Other useful features are provided by the UrbanHybrid system. This unit prevents noise and vibration when the engine stops and boosts engine torque when needed. At the same time, it shows real respect for the environment.

An expression of power and elegance
C5 Airscape is a car to turn heads. Its elegant proportions and sleek bodywork convey a sense of performance with a promise of power. The innovative folding top is an invitation to climb on board and take to the road. The interior layout, with its premium materials, delivers the highest standards of on-board comfort for the driver and all the passengers

Power and sophistication
A car of elegant lines, C5 Airscape conveys an impression of strength and sophistication, with its cleanly drawn body lines and ribbing at the top. The powerful look of the body is brought out by the raw, intense grey of the bodywork. whose intensity varies according to the light, gives C5 Airscape an elegant and precious look, consolidating its status as an executive vehicle.

Through its assertive front end, featuring large air intakes and long incisive headlamps, C5 Airscape makes a statement of performance. The headlamps - positioned on the bonnet with its two pronounced ribs - flank the large chrome chevrons stating Citroen's identity.

The profile of C5 Airscape reflects efforts to achieve optimal aerodynamic design. The roof line, particularly large windows and tapering chrome-plated door handles underline the flowing lines of the body, while the high waistline, clearly marked wheel arches and 19-inch wheels clearly identify C5 Airscape as a vehicle of status.

The powerful design of the front and rear ends highlight the on-road stance of C5 Airscape. The high-positioned rear lights extend the waistline and optimise the vehicle's dynamic looks. At the same time, a double chrome tail pipe underlines the car's luxurious design as does the concave rear window, which clearly identifies C5 Airscape as belonging to the family of large Citroen saloons.

The sophistication of C5 Airscape can also be seen in the original design of the folding roof, whose glazed upper part lets light flood into the cabin. Made entirely of carbon, this roof opens and folds away simply, without detracting from the looks of the concept car. It folds away automatically, without assistance, and without the driver having to open the upper part of the roof storage area in the boot. C5 Airscape reflects the purest traditions in vehicle design in that the metal-look roof with its textile lining resembles a roof made of canvas - the emblematic signature of executive cabriolets.

Leisure and sophistication
Fully upholstered in dark brown leather, the cabin of C5 Airscape conveys an appealing impression of sophistication. The particularly well designed seats suggest luxury and precision. The central section of the seats brings to mind the links of a watch strap, while the decorative stitching on the edges of the seats reinforces the taut, well-muscled look of the whole. To add the finishing touch to the executive design of the interior, the gear lever knob is set with leather and chrome. The chrome echoes the metal strip underlining the air conditioning controls and central console.

The design of the driving position on C5 Airscape was also dictated by the pursuit of driving pleasure. Refinement is the key word for the driver's surroundings, as reflected in the specific design of the instruments and their layout.

The driving position features a fixed-centred controls steering wheel that brings the main comfort functions and driving aids (navigation, radio, cruise control and speed limiter, on-board computer) within easy reach. Considered as points of contact, the pushbuttons feature an original covering resembling the texture of skin. They create a strong, fast-reacting sensory interface between the vehicle and the driver.

The sophisticated design of the instrument cluster on C5 Airscape reflects the requirements of optimised ergonomics and ensures that information is laid out legibly. The three dials feature annular needles, symbolising an advanced level of technology. The needles run around rather than across the dial for greater legibility and a more attractive design.

The air vents next to the dials underline this cabriolet's powerful character, as does the upper part of the instrument cluster, which takes the form of an air intake as on a competition car. The overall effect is enhanced by the clean, sculpted design of the dashboard. Its straight lines symbolise precision, while the soft curves symbolise dynamic performance. This configuration contributes to full driver control and exceptional driveability.

Driving sensations and improved respect for the environment
Styled for maximum appeal, C5 Airscape also delivers maximum performance. This concept vehicle is equipped with a V6 HDi engine associated with a particulate filter and able to run on biodiesel, along with an innovative Snow Motion traction control system for a performance close to that of a four-wheel drive, and UrbanHybrid technology for low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. As a result, C5 Airscape boasts remarkable levels of performance that show real respect for the environment.

Technology serving the environment
Through its powerful engine, particulate filter and UrbanHybrid system, C5 Airscape illustrates Citroen's ability to reconcile vehicle performance with respect for the environment.

With its reversible alternator-starter and super-capacitors able to temporarily store large amounts of energy, the UrbanHybrid system delivers real benefits in terms of environmental protection, driving pleasure, acoustic comfort and vibration control.

In Drive mode, when this concept vehicle is travelling at under 6 kph and the driver's foot is on the brake pedal, the engine cuts out. For maximum driveability, it starts again instantly and automatically as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal. When the car is at a standstill, fuel consumption is zero and CO2 emissions are around 24 g over a combined cycle. Further, the onboard network (air conditioning, radio etc.) is powered by energy recovered during the deceleration and braking phases. This brings savings in fuel consumption and eliminates additional pollutant emissions.

Driveability and performance in all circumstances
The executive positioning of C5 Airscape is reflected by the presence of the 208 bhp 2.7 V6 HDi engine and particulate filter. Combining power and fuel economy, this engine develops 150 kW EEC (208 bhp DIN) at 4,000 rpm for torque of 440 Nm at 1,900 rpm. Right from the lowest speeds, it delivers smooth, gradual power with exceptional operating comfort. Driveability is further increased by a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

To deliver a high level of performance and improve active safety, C5 Airscape features Snow Motion, an innovative traction control system with extended functions. This system offers remarkable performance in terms of vehicle traction and "take-off" on surfaces with low grip, such as snow for example. The benefits, already significant with conventional tyres, are further increased when the concept car is shod with winter tyres. In this configuration, the performance of C5 Airscape is close to that of a four-wheel drive.

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

The 5 seat C4 Picasso slips naturally into Citroën's compact MPV range between the established, best-selling Xsara Picasso and the award-winning seven seat version, known as the Grand C4 Picasso. With three compact MPVs and the full-size C8 people carrier, Citroën now boasts the broadest MPV range in its history.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso benefits from the same forward thinking that shaped the design of the recently launched Grand C4 Picasso, with outstanding all-round visibility, a light and airy interior, leading cabin and boot space, incorporating a new version of Citroën's Modubox folding trolley, and the use of high quality materials. The easy-to-use and flexible interior lay-out combines with the uncluttered interior space and the highest levels of comfort to ensure that travelling is a pleasurable experience.

The interior of Citroën's newcomer is refreshingly light, with outstanding visibility provided by the huge windscreen, slim pillars and optional panoramic sunroof. Artificial lighting also plays a major role with the availability of various useful features, such as automatic welcome lights under the door mirrors, a portable torch in the boot and reading lights on the back of the front seats, all designed to make journeys easier.

The exterior dimensions (4.47m long, 1.83m wide and 1.66m tall) give the C4 Picasso an extremely spacious interior. This feeling of space is enjoyed by all passengers, with those in the front benefiting from the simple, uncluttered design of the dash, and those in the back from three individual, full-size seats and a flat floor. The innovative seating design, first seen in the Grand C4 Picasso, allows the rear seats to be quickly and easily folded flat into the floor.

When all 5 seats are in use, the new model leads the class with 500 litres of boot space underneath the luggage cover, extending to a maximum 1,734 litres once the rear seats are folded down. Helping to keep the boot tidy, the five seat C4 Picasso can also be equipped with a new version of Citroën's renowned Modubox. This innovative, removable trolley makes it easy to divide boot space and to transport objects outside of the vehicle.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso provides a relaxing journey for all occupants. Suspension comfort can be further enhanced by the optional pneumatic rear suspension, while laminated acoustic side windows can be specified to make it even quieter inside. An automatic electronic parking brake.

Developed on the same platform as the Grand C4 Picasso, which scored five stars in Euro NCAP tests, the new C4 Picasso meets the most stringent criteria for occupant protection, offering the likes of four Isofix seats, audible seatbelt warnings for all seats and seven airbags as standard.

Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon, 2009

Alfa Romeo 159 is an exclusive sedan combining refined Italian style with the "elegant sportiness" of Alfa Romeo. The Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon on the other hand combines the style, performance and handling of a genuine sports car with the flexibility of use and luggage space versatility of a prestigious station wagon.

The powerful Alfa Romeo 159 sedan is offered in the TI sporting version, featuring lowered geometry, bigger tires, 19 inch alloy rims, miniskirts and large aluminum brakes with red calipers. So, a very determined-looking car with a decidedly "ground-hugging" look. Inside, the TI environment is recognizable from the shaped sports seats in perforated leather with the Alfa Romeo logo stitched in red, plus the steering wheel with sports grip and the gear knob covered in leather with red stitching.

The internal coverings are black and the insignia are in "brushed dark aluminum". The same impression of sportiness appears in the instrument panel graphics, the pedals and the aluminum scuff plate with TI logo. Finally, this particular version comes with high-end equipment including triple-zone climate control, VDC system with Electronic Q2, Blue&Me Nav GPS and entertainment system, Bose Hi-Fi system and Cruise Control.

The public can admire an Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon equipped with the new 2.0 liter 170 HP JTDM engine (Euro 5). With this engine, the car can reach 216 km/h and takes 9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. The version displayed at Geneva is a Sport which is differentiated from the outside by the exclusive 18 inch alloy rims with the new "Turbine" design.

Inside, the eye is caught by the sports steering wheel with radio commands, the gear knob covered in leather with black stitching and the new sports seats covered in leather. Giving a further impression of sportiness, the head lining, the parcel shelf and the pillar fairings are black, while the badges are in "brushed aluminum" and the instrument panel employs "sporty" graphics. Finally, the equipment (standard and optional) offered on this car is very high-spec: triple-zone climate control, Cruise Control, VDC system (with Electronic Q2), Bose Hi-Fi system, GPS system (with telephone and voice commands), and Visibility Pack (rain, mist and twilight sensors).

Alfa Romeo 159, 2009

Alfa Romeo 159 is an exclusive sedan combining refined Italian style with the "elegant sportiness" of Alfa Romeo. The Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon on the other hand combines the style, performance and handling of a genuine sports car with the flexibility of use and luggage space versatility of a prestigious station wagon.

The Alfa Romeo 159 is fitted with the new 1.75 liter TBi engine (Euro 5) - maximum output 200 HP from 4750 to 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 320 Nm at 1400 rpm - giving it a maximum speed of 235 km/h and acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in barely 7.7 seconds.

The powerful Alfa Romeo 159 sedan is offered in the TI sporting version, featuring lowered geometry, bigger tires, 19 inch alloy rims, miniskirts and large aluminum brakes with red calipers. So, a very determined-looking car with a decidedly "ground-hugging" look. Inside, the TI environment is recognizable from the shaped sports seats in perforated leather with the Alfa Romeo logo stitched in red, plus the steering wheel with sports grip and the gear knob covered in leather with red stitching.

The internal coverings are black and the insignia are in "brushed dark aluminum". The same impression of sportiness appears in the instrument panel graphics, the pedals and the aluminum scuff plate with TI logo. Finally, this particular version comes with high-end equipment including triple-zone climate control, VDC system with Electronic Q2, Blue&Me Nav GPS and entertainment system, Bose Hi-Fi system and Cruise Control.

Next to this car, the public can admire an Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon equipped with the new 2.0 liter 170 HP JTDM engine (Euro 5). With this engine, the car can reach 216 km/h and takes 9 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h. The version displayed at Geneva is a Sport which is differentiated from the outside by the exclusive 18 inch alloy rims with the new "Turbine" design.

Inside, the eye is caught by the sports steering wheel with radio commands, the gear knob covered in leather with black stitching and the new sports seats covered in leather. Giving a further impression of sportiness, the head lining, the parcel shelf and the pillar fairings are black, while the badges are in "brushed aluminum" and the instrument panel employs "sporty" graphics. Finally, the equipment (standard and optional) offered on this car is very high-spec: triple-zone climate control, Cruise Control, VDC system (with Electronic Q2), Bose Hi-Fi system, GPS system (with telephone and voice commands), and Visibility Pack (rain, mist and twilight sensors).