Saturday, May 26, 2012

Mazda 5, 2011

 
 
 
  • Mazda 5, 2011
The Mazda Motor Corporation staged the global premiere of the all-new Mazda 5 (known as the Mazda Premacy in Japan) during the press days of the 2010 Geneva Motor Show on March 2 and 3, 2010. Embracing dynamic and elegant Nagare design, the new Mazda 5 emits approximately 15 percent less CO2 than the current model thanks to Mazda's "i-stop" idling stop system, a direct injection gasoline engine and other technologies. European sales of the all-new Mazda 5 will commence during fall 2010.

The new Mazda 5 features an emotional design that blends elegance with a dynamic spirit. It be the first Mazda production model to fully adopt Mazda's Nagare (meaning "flow" in Japanese) design language, which finds inspiration in the beauty of flows found in nature. Nagare design has appeared in certain elements of recent production models and was previously showcased through a series of concept cars. The new Mazda 5's design achieves excellent aerodynamic characteristics with an outstanding drag coefficient and lift balance. In order to meet wide-ranging customer requirements, it also offers a high level of functionality, with dual sliding rear doors and multiple seat arrangements. This includes a karakuri second-row center seat that can be converted to a versatile storage space. With a sportier and smoother ride, the new Mazda 5 responds precisely to the driver's commands, enabling the whole family to travel in comfort and security.

Based on its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda is striving to improve the eco-friendly performance of its products. Whether stuck in traffic or cruising on the highway, the all-new Mazda 5 with 2.0L direct injection gasoline engine and i-stop significantly reduces CO2 emissions thanks to the effective combination of i-stop, the high combustion efficiency provided by direct injection, and a six-speed manual transmission with optimized gear ratios. The new Mazda 5 cuts CO2 emissions by roughly 15 percent compared to the model it replaces and provides a more comfortable ride with linear and smooth performance characteristics. It is now one of the most eco-friendly minivans in its class in Europe.

The new Mazda 5's green credentials are further enhanced by its other available powertrains, which include a 1.8L gasoline engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Commenting on the development concept, Hideki Matsuoka, the Mazda 5 program manager, said, "The all-new Mazda 5 meets the many needs of today's customers. In a single model, we offer the competitive eco-performance necessary to address current market trends together with our distinctive, emotional design. The Mazda 5 features outstanding functionality with sliding rear doors and multiple seat arrangements, and it delivers fantastic comfort with a linear and smooth ride that responds precisely as the driver intends."
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Maybach 62 S, 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
  •  Maybach 62 S, 2011

Since 2002 Maybach has been defining new standards in the top league of high-end luxury saloons, whilst at the same time continuing the tradition of legendary Maybach vehicles which were part of the elite in the German and international automotive construction industry in the nineteen twenties and thirties of the last century. It is the challenging legacy that the luxury brand is carrying forward - in the form of an extensive facelift of the Maybach saloons, celebrating its premiere at Auto China 2010 in Beijing. The prestigious, tradition-steeped Maybach brand is consolidating its top position in the high-end luxury segment with a more striking design and even more extensive equipment and appointments.

Striking, self-confident design
Following their facelift, the Maybach saloons shine with their self-confident, effortlessly superior, distinctive charisma. It is above all the new dominant chrome radiator grille that emphasises their exceptional status - it is meticulously crafted in two different variants. In the Maybach 57 and 62 models it is graced with 20 fine longitudinal bars and in the 57 S and 62 S Maybach models twelve solid double louvres with a "shadow strut" put the spotlight on the vehicle's tremendous power. Both arrow-shaped radiator grilles are also higher than before, have considerably larger dimensions, are positioned more upright and further forward in the direction of travel - clearly symbolising the self-confident status and effortlessly superior, striking appearance.
The designers have elevated the modified bonnet with a higher front upper edge and given it sharply defined contours. It has a shaped edge and appears distinctly arrow-shaped, more expressive and longer than previously. A restyled, horizontally structured bumper trim gives the Maybach saloons an even broader look from the front. Daytime driving lights featuring LED technology and bordered with a chrome insert have been integrated into the outer air intakes.

The new exterior mirrors with optimised aerodynamics for less driving noise harmonise very well with the striking front. Their large mirror surface also means improved vision. Dark red tail lights of exquisite material quality complete with chrome embellishment, plus chrome trim used on the handle in the boot lid lend the end section a powerful, distinguished look. This in turn is underlined by new high-sheen 21-spoke 19-inch wheels in titanium silver for the Maybach 57 and 62 models. The Maybach 57 S and 62 S models will in future be shod as standard with new 12-spoke 20-inch wheels painted in noble sterling silver. And all the models are available in the new, exclusively developed Bahamas Blue paint.

Interior - superb craftsmanship
As one would expect, the Maybach MANUFAKTUR showcases masterly handcraftsmanship with no compromises in the interior, where materials of the highest quality abound. As is the case with everything from Maybach, the utmost attention has been paid to every last detail. Every seam, every joint is perfectly executed, viewed from every angle this is a feast for the eyes, touching every single feature is a tactile delight - noblesse oblige.

There are three new interior appointments with different leather, carpet and headlining colours (Saona Beige for the Maybach 57 and 62, Whitehaven Beach and Kuril Islands for the Maybach 57 S and 62 S). They create an elegant, light and stimulating lighting mood - especially in conjunction with the unique electrotransparent panoramic glass sunroof in the models with a long wheelbase. It spans the roof liner above the rear passengers like an atrium, allowing light to flood the rear compartment and gives a rare degree of control over the illumination of the surroundings. It features a liquid crystal membrane of conductive polymer plastic. When an alternating current is applied to it, the crystals in the plastic membrane are arranged in such a way that the glass becomes transparent and allows daylight into the rear of the Maybach 62 models over its entire area. As soon as the power is switched off, the liquid crystals lose their transparent arrangement again and the light is fragmented in all directions. The glass becomes nearly opaque and filters the daylight falling on it to produce a pleasant, diffused glow. This electrically operated transparency function is also used in most countries for the partition screen that can be ordered as an option.

An electrically driven sliding liner rounds off the luxurious lighting package. Its electroluminescent membrane can be switched on at the touch of a button when closed, emitting a pleasant, diffused light over its entire surface. A rotary switch in the rear console of the Maybach 62 models gives the rear passengers complete control over the illumination of the membrane and strength of the ambient lighting.

Some exquisite new additions have found their way into the large selection of trim available. There is now trim in selected dark brown bird's-eye maple, which can also be combined with brilliant porcelain piano lacquer in the Maybach 57 S and 62 S models, underlining the refined ambience. As an alternative, a sporty touch comes in the form of carbon-fibre trim elements in new colours, among them silver and red.

Lovers of more compact vehicle dimensions will in future be able to enjoy the outstanding comfort afforded by the rear reclining seats - previously only available in the Maybach saloons with a long wheelbase. With immediate effect this first-class armchair can also be installed on the passenger side in the rear of the Maybach 57 and 57 S models as an option. At the same time Maybach has enhanced the craftsmanship of the seats for all models. The look of the seat upholstery layout has been refined and given additional piping. On request the piping running round the seats can also be supplied in a hand-braided version with four fine, individual leather stripes or adorned with valuable CRYSTALLIZED Swarovski Elements. In the upper part of the seat backrest, a redesigned badge in hand-polished 925 sterling silver with the embossed Maybach logo and "MAYBACH MANUFAKTUR" lettering is an impressive indication of the great love of detail, serving as a reminder of the prestigious ambience in which one is travelling.

A scented haven of wellbeing
Maybach cuts an equally fine figure when it comes to the range of individualisation options available for the luxury saloons, which has been extensively extended. For the very first time there is an extremely high-quality flacon perfume atomiser available on request, having been developed exclusively by Maybach. Up until now it was reserved only for the special Maybach Zeppelin model, limited to just 100 units. This exquisite equipment detail - the only one of its kind anywhere in the world - represents a very special highlight indeed. At the touch of a button it produces a unique fragrant experience thanks to the use of sophisticated technology and high-quality perfume which discreetly, unobtrusively and gently stimulates the passengers' senses. There is absolutely no comparison between this and other solutions containing concentrates or particulate matter.

At the heart of the system lies an internally illuminated Plexiglass sphere on the rear centre console, into which Maybach owners can insert a flacon containing a perfume they have personally selected. A compressor then directs a gentle flow of air into the Plexiglass sphere, fanning the flacon's perfume molecules into the vehicle interior.

The perfume atomiser can be activated either from the driver's seat or by means of a button in the rear centre console, with an additional thumbwheel in the rear for sensitive aroma control. The chosen fragrance gently wafts into the passenger compartment within ten to twelve seconds. On models with a partition screen, only the passengers in the rear are able to activate the atomiser.

The aroma experts took the particular biological characteristics of the human nose into consideration when designing the control mechanism. As it adjusts to smells in such a way that it no longer perceives them after a short while, the perfume atomiser switches off after about ten minutes. Once the system has switched off, the fragrance - which does not seep into the interior's materials or the occupants' clothes - quickly evaporates. Reactivating the atomiser later allows the fragrant experience to be enjoyed all over again.

Entertainment and electronics are state of the art

Entertainment galore comes courtesy of a new multiformat DVD player. It reads all important formats such as DVD-R/DVD-RW/CD-R/CD-RW, DVD video/video CD and CD-DA playback/MP3. As an option a large high-resolution cinema screen with a 19-inch diagonal can now be fitted to the centre of the partition in the Maybach 62 models, as an alternative to the 9.5-inch monitors in the rear available until now. Sound in concert-hall quality is on tap in the form of a 600-watt sound system with 21 loudspeakers from renowned hi-fi specialist BOSE®.

As an option Maybach can now also install an overview camera in the vehicles with a partition and cinema screen. Rear passengers are then able to keep an eye on the traffic in front of them without being seen themselves - even with an opaque partition window. This creates an oasis of seclusion in which they can always enjoy total privacy.

An innovative WLAN router takes care of wireless internet access - even during the journey. As an alternative, mobile devices can also be connected via a cable to a LAN socket in order to reduce electromagnetic radiation in the interior. This sophisticated internet connection is unique in this vehicle segment and utilises the rapid transmission standards HSDPA, UMTS and GSM/EDGE. It is capable of serving three mobile devices such as laptops simultaneously, so now it is child's play for Maybach owners to synchronise the data on their laptop with those on their computer at home or in the office, or to keep constant track of the current news via the internet, for instance. A mobile phone hands-free system with Bluetooth functionality and voice transmission via the vehicle's existing loudspeakers and microphones is also available as a further option.

More powerful yet fewer emissions
Even though the engineers at Maybach have increased the output of the Maybach 57 S and 62 S by 13 kW (18 hp) to 463 kW (630 hp), they were able to reduce the consumption figures (from 6.4 to 15.8 l/100 km) and the CO2 output (from 390 to 368 g/km CO2) at the same time. The output of the 57 and 62 models remained unchanged, but consumption (15.0 as opposed to 15.9 l/100 km) and CO2 output (350 as opposed to 383 g/km) was also cut here. All the Maybach twelve-cylinder engines meet the EU5 standard/LEV2.

Warranty covering eight years or 200,000 kilometres
To coincide with the facelift, Maybach has introduced a new warranty policy. With the country-specific Maybach service and warranty packages Excellent and Basic, service and warranty are covered up to a vehicle age of eight years or a mileage of 200,000 kilometres/125,000 miles. After this point the life-long mobility warranty applies.

The numerous different variants of the Maybach service and warranty package can be purchased at various points in time and extended again according to personal requirements, which means that it offers even more extensive cover in case of damage, plus calculable maintenance costs. A unique feature of the package is the fact that it includes, for example, replacements in case of wear such as paint, leather, wood, carpet and upholstery, as well as noise repairs. The Maybach experts use only genuine Maybach parts of the very highest quality, meaning that the Maybach is always in pristine condition. This facilitates the luxury saloons' long-term value retention and is an advantage not to be underestimated when it comes to resale.

Maybach means: unique and masterful down to the last detail
The name Maybach has always been synonymous with the continuous striving for aesthetic appeal, perfection, elegance and the ultimate in comfort. This is why the luxury saloons from the Maybach Manufaktur are painstakingly crafted by hand with the utmost skill and care. At least 30 days pass between the time a Maybach leaves its birthplace in Sindelfingen and the point at which it is handed over to the customer. The owner is the receiver of an automotive dream with enviable levels of spaciousness, fitted with the very finest woods, the softest leather and deep-pile carpets. It is for this reason that many customers prefer to travel in the superior comfort the rear of a Maybach offers as opposed to a private jet - sometimes for distances of over 1000 kilo-metres.

Like travelling in a sedan chair
Journeying in a Maybach means relaxing in peace and calm. If at all, noise from the road or airflow reaches the ears of the passengers as though from afar. The high-end luxury saloons from Sindelfingen possess nigh-on proverbial quiet-running characteristics. The smooth ride is all thanks to the carefully optimised, low natural body frequencies, a suspension with a hydraulic subframe and shock absorbers meticulously developed with enormous attention to detail. Also co-responsible for the exemplary smooth ride are the four-bearing propshaft, the differential with gears carefully ground-in by hand and the large wheels with tyres specially developed for the Maybach. Michelin had made no less than 27 tyre samples available just for the Maybach saloons, and it was only after lengthy tuning work that the best result was finally achieved.

But it is not only these major measures that turn the Maybach saloons into a blissfully peaceful haven reminiscent of a sedan chair. An equally important contribution is made by textile trim in the wheel arches, which dampen the clatter of stone chippings that are thrown up, acoustically dampened air ducts, in whose acoustically effective labyrinth sound waves become lost and an unusually long exhaust system - measuring six metres in length - which is characterised by multiple flexible decoupling. A total of 224 parts in every Maybach saloon boast superb acoustic effectiveness - such as the windows with acoustic film, which connects two panes, thus preventing them from vibrating, or 93 kilograms of function-optimised acoustic material.

And Maybach does not leave the task of achieving perfection at the highest level merely to intensive engineering work - this happens first and foremost in the Maybach Manufaktur itself. Only the very best specialists work here. Just as every single Maybach is individually equipped, they also treat each Maybach as an individual. And they add their signature to the certificate which belongs to every saloon, confirming the high quality of their work. This means that the Maybach is far from being an anonymous product - each employee is identifiable and takes personal responsibility. This also applies to the employees at the Manufaktur who are responsible for the final inspection. At the end of the process they test-drive the finished luxury car and subject it to meticulous scrutiny with their sensitive senses - an extensive procedure which

Individualisation

Tailor-made individualisation is part of the recipe for success of the luxury Maybach brand. It offers its customers unique ways of customising the specification of its top-class saloons. The Manufaktur in Sindelfingen turns a whole host of special requests in reality: of crucial importance in the work performed are the materials and cutting-edge technologies used to offer an extraordinary visual and tactile experience. This is why the Maybach specialists repeatedly come up with superb new materials and paint finishes - many of them specially developed for Maybach and not available from any other vehicle manufacturer. One of the brand-new features is the option of having individual motifs included on the partition window.

With its flair for the extraordinary, its acute understanding of the perceptual capabilities of the senses and through continuous dialogue with its customers, the Maybach Manufaktur continuously expands its range of optional and customised extras in order to keep fulfilling the wishes and requirements of the automotive market's most prestigious clientele. And it is for this reason that the luxury Maybach saloons will again be available with special protection after the facelift.
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Friday, May 25, 2012

Dodge Charger SRT8, 2012

 
 
 
 
  •  Dodge Charger SRT8, 2012

The new product onslaught continues for the Dodge brand with the announcement at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show that the Dodge Charger SRT8  return for the 2012 model year.

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8  built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and in dealer showrooms in late 2011.

"AWE-INSPIRING" POWERTRAIN
Under the hood, the new 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 delivers more horsepower and torque than the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces. It also will offer improved fuel economy.

Estimated power ratings for the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 are 465 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, including an estimated additional 80 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,900 rpm. Specific horsepower, torque and fuel economy numbers will be announced closer to the vehicle introduction.

Building upon the standard Fuel Saver technology (four-cylinder mode) found in the new 6.4 HEMI V-8, a new for 2012 adaptive valve exhaust system allows the technology to engage over a wider rpm range, which delivers improved fuel efficiency or the use of all eight cylinders when the power is needed.
An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low-end torque for impressive standing starts while optimizing high-end power.

For the first time in any Chrysler Group LLC SRT product, standard paddle-shift technology joins the standard AutoStick on the floor shifter. Both are mated to the proven W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission, allowing a choice of spirited shifting on the road and the racetrack.

Both shifting methods give the driver the ability to shift while the transmission controller calibration prevents situations that might over rev the engine. Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

OUTSTANDING RIDE AND HANDLING
New for 2012, the Dodge Charger SRT8 features an adaptive damping suspension that uses a wide range of on-road and driver inputs, such as vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral acceleration, to automatically tune the suspension for specific conditions. Drivers also can manually choose between "Auto" and "Sport" settings that quickly change the shock damping and harshness characteristics from the ease of everyday commuting to harsher, more challenging driving situations.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully hydraulic steering system also is improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

New, split five-spoke, 20-inch lightweight forged and polished aluminum wheels with black painted pockets provide great looks, and the available three- or four-season tires make the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 easy to handle and fun to drive.

OUTSTANDING BRAKING
World-class stopping power for the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 comes through four-piston Brembo calipers and vented/slotted rotors measuring 14.2 inches up front and 13.8 inches in the rear.

The Dodge Charger SRT8's Ready Alert Braking system anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and engages the electronic stability control pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application.

AGGRESSIVE AND FUNCTIONAL EXTERIOR
Exclusive new front and rear fascias, along with a new rear spoiler, distinguish the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 with a high performance look.

The front grille, grille surround and Dodge crosshair feature high-gloss black finishes and the SRT badge. A newly sculpted hood features a 6.4 L (liter) badge and black air exhauster for added engine cooling.

In the rear, the Charger's new signature "racetrack" taillamp design with 164 illuminating LEDs receives new 4-inch round dual exhaust tips and an SRT8 decklid badge to boldly show the Street and Racing Technology DNA.

Unique fside-sill cladding is painted to match the body color.
A newly designed underbody belly pan features integrated brake ducting to improve cooling and brake fade performance at all four corners.

RACE-INSPIRED AND FUNCTIONAL INTERIOR
Building upon the all-new design from 2011, the interior environment of the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 combines more world-class accommodations with race-inspired technology and appointments.

An all-new, leather-wrapped, SRT-exclusive steering wheel features a unique rim section with a flattened bottom surface that showcases the SRT logo. The standard paddle shifters flank both sides of the new steering wheel behind the new contoured palm rests.
For the high-performance look, carbon-weave, fiber aluminum interior trim pieces are integrated into the new instrument panel and shifter bezel.

The front seats have unique, aggressive bolstering and perforated suede insert fabric to help "grip" the driver and passengers, keeping them in place during spirited driving. Heated and ventilated front seats are standard. Reactive headrests also are standard. The SRT logo is embroidered in the seat backs. Rear seats also are heated for passenger comfort.

Modified door trim panels feature unique bolster material and accent stitching on arm rests to match the seats.

The Dodge Charger SRT8 features a 900-watt, 19-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harmon Kardon. The intuitive user interface for the system is controlled through the state-of-the-art Uconnect® Touch on the largest standard touchscreen display (8.4-inch) in the segment. Benchmarked against the best E-segment sedans from Europe, Asia and North America, the easy-to-use system also features Uconnect Voice to deliver world-class functionality to keep all passengers easily connected, comfortable and secure.

Exclusive Performance Pages are new for 2012 and included within the touchscreen display. The instrument panel display can be customized to view driver preferences and expanded to include instant feedback on steering input measurements, horsepower, torque, expanded engine information, along with 0-60 mph time, 60-0 braking, g-forces and one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times. The color graphic Electronic Vehicle Information Center also includes the Performance Pages timers and added engine information.

SAFETY AND SECURITY
For everyday commuting, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 incorporates features like Keyless Enter-N-Go, adaptive-cruise control with Forward Collision Warning and Blind-spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection, to keep drivers and passengers secure.

Standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver's knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

Standard three-mode electronic stability control with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features, offer improved overall vehicle handling and performance both on the road and the track.

DODGE CHARGER SRT8
  •     Engine: 6.4-liter (392 cubic inch) HEMI V-8
  •     Power: 465 bhp (est.)
  •     Torque: 465 lb.-ft. (est.)
  •     Handling: .88g on skidpad (est.)
  •     Top Speed: 175 mph (est.)
  •     0-60 mph: High 4-second range (est.)
  •     ¼ mile: High 12-second range (est.)
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Dacia Duster Trophee Andros, 2010




Dacia Duster Trophee Andros, 2010

The Dacia has chosen to base its challenge in the 2009/2010 Trophée Andros ice-racing season on the so-called 'Silhouette' category. All the circuits visited by the Trophée Andros put reliability to the ultimate test, and give Dacia a chance to showcase the fact that robustness forms an integral part of the brand's DNA. The discipline also places a cap on excessively complex and costly technical solutions, while the chassis, gearbox and tyres, for example, are all carefully governed by the regulations, forcing teams to explore simple, ingenious solutions, an approach which totally fits the Dacia spirit.

Dacia's newcomer get its first taste of ice racing in the hands of Alain Prost, with the brand seeking to spring a surprise by using the campaign to premiere Dacia Duster, the lines of which preview the 4x4 model that is due to go on sale in 2010. Dacia Duster's high body line and prominent wheel arches are clear pointers to its 4x4 credentials, while the bodywork of the competition version is perfectly suited to the specific demands of the Trophée Andros. The extensive front glazed surface area and the positioning of the windscreen pillars ensure outstanding forward and lateral visibility.

The Dacia brand has forged a reputation for challenging established thinking in the automotive world, delivering all the essentials… at just the right price.

The Trophée Andros stands out as one of motor sport's most exacting disciplines. In ice racing, the track conditions can change very quickly as a result of prevailing weather conditions, and driving calls for precision, rigour and race-craft, three qualities which all come naturally to a champion of Alain Prost's calibre.

The DACIA DUSTER PREPARED BY RENAULT SPORT TECHNOLOGIES
Over and above driver talent, the cars that contest the Trophée Andros undergo specific preparation.

The competition version of Dacia Duster has benefited extensively from the motorsport expertise of Renault Sport Technologies. Its glass-fibre body conceals a tubular chassis which houses a three-litre, 24-valve V6 engine from the Renault-Nissan Alliance range. This powerplant has been carefully tuned in order to optimise its performance potential at the high altitudes at which the races will be held. It delivers peak power of 350hp at 7,500rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm at 5,500rpm. The six-speed sequential gearbox ensures fast, precise gearshifts, even when drifting through corners at full speed. The mid-engined layout offers perfect weight distribution, whilst the low centre of gravity ensures enhanced control.

The double wishbone suspension and long-travel dampers have been specifically engineered to allow Dacia Duster to take in its stride the different conditions it  encounter during the Trophée Andros campaign. The competition version of Dacia Duster is equipped with limited slip differentials which are indispensable for the extreme conditions. This feature, which is also seen on other Renault Sport Technologies-developed competition and road cars, ensures efficient traction irrespective of the road surface, driving style or type of corner. The competition version of Dacia Duster also incorporates a four-wheel steering system for complete cornering control. This mechanical system links the front and rear wheels, and can be rapidly adjusted to meet the demands of each circuit.

DACIA DUSTER COMPETITION CAR - TECHNICAL DATA
    * CHASSIS
          o Tubular steel chassis
          o Double wishbone suspension, front and rear
    * ENGINE
          o Renault-Nissan Alliance VQ 30
          o Position: mid-engined
          o Six cylinders (V6)
          o Number of valves: 24
          o Cubic capacity: 2,987cc
          o Bore x stroke: 93mm x 73.3mm
          o Maximum power: 350hp at 7,500rpm
          o Maximum torque: 360Nm at 5,500rpm
    * TRANSMISSION
          o Six-speed SADEV sequential gearbox
    * BRAKES
          o Front: 260mm-diameter ventilated steel discs
          o Rear: 265mm-diameter steel discs
    * WHEELS
          o 5.5" x 16" (magnesium)
          o Tyres: Continental Racing Contact 3
    * DIMENSIONS / WEIGHT
          o Length: 4,001mm
          o Width: 1,900mm
          o Front/rear track: 1,690mm
          o Wheelbase: 2,500mm
          o Weight: 950kg
          o Fuel tank capacity: 25 litres
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Thursday, May 24, 2012

Honda Civic EU-Version, 2012

 
 
 

 
  •  Honda Civic EU-Version, 2012

Honda announces the new Civic at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). Developed specifically for the European market, the Honda Civic  offered exclusively as a five-door hatchback and will compete in the C-segment. It reach European showrooms in early 2012.

The Introduction
The Honda Civic team led by Mitsuru Kariya, the 'Large Project Leader' (LPL), were given the task to create and develop the new Civic. With the current Civic being known for its unique exterior styling and interior practicality within the C segment in Europe, Mitsuru Kariya and his team were keen to further understand the needs and desires of the European customers. The current Honda Civic became the benchmark focus for their research to create a car that was even better.

With the current increase of fuel prices across Europe and the environmental targets set to achieve low emissions, it was concluded from the European customer survey that the current Honda Civic customer not only considers modern styling and performance to be important but also advanced technologies to create a Civic that was even more cost efficient to run and eco-friendly.

The development period for the new Honda Civic spanned over four years. Nearly all of components are new to the Civic or have been further developed with areas of focus on the suspension set-up to improve the ride and handling, the interior materials to improve the overall interior quality, the new design styling and aerodynamics for a refreshed image and improved efficiency, and the engines for improved performance and reduced CO2 emissions.

Overall the new Honda Civic builds on the core strengths of its predecessor and takes them to an appreciably higher level. It also is one of the sector's best in performance against low CO2 emissions - the diesel model produces just 110 g/km with 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque.

Background and Research
The current Civic originally launched in 2006 saw a change in the type of layout approach with the development of a unique platform based on a "centre tank" layout designed to offer practical benefits such as large cabin space meeting the needs of Europe's "C" category customers. The Honda Civic was designed and developed for the European market receiving positive feedback in areas such as design and versatility/practicality which have helped define the current Civic as having 'road presence' with its 'futuristic looks;' and having a 'multi-purpose' function with the large boot space and multiple seat arrangements offered by the 'magic seats'.

As research commenced, the development team for the new Honda Civic considered these key milestones achieved with the current Civic and opted to maintain and even look to enhance the current Civic model qualities. The team wanted to create a new emotional design with the ability to surprise and provide the unexpected in terms of roominess and other practical features whilst also improving the visibility and widening the field of vision to enhance the overall ownership experience.

The current Honda Civic had already achieved superior interior space with an unbeatable boot capacity among its competitors. Focus now was on maintaining this class leading interior space whilst improving the overall packaging and space efficiency in the attempt to reduce overall dimensions. This would lead to a new exterior design, improved aerodynamic performance, reducing weight that play a role in raising the car's overall performance envelope.

Focused research was conducted to determine the latest and most important requirements for the European market. European and Japanese designers and engineers worked together closely throughout the development process. Testing was carried out first in Japan and then repeatedly in Europe to ensure suitability for the world's most demanding C-segment customers.

The Honda Civic development team turned to drivers, dealers and the media to evaluate the existing Civic and define the essential 'must keep' features and qualities, as well as the priorities for the new model. Drivers appreciated the distinct styling and form of the car, with its futuristic looks and practicality. However their feedback suggested that the car's rear design could be more sophisticated and that rear view could be improved. Inside the Civic the modern and user-friendly cockpit design was appreciated, as were the spacious cabin and versatile 'magic seats', but users demanded an improvement in the quality of the materials used. Drivers were impressed with the driving experience, but noted that suspension noise could be reduced and ride comfort increased.

Research revealed that the typical Honda Civic driver is attracted to unique, fresh design with sporty performance and advanced technologies. The environment was defined as a high priority, with customers demanding high fuel economy and low emissions.

Concept and development
Initial ideas for the new Civic explored the realm of the car having a 'Lean Energetic' design. 'Lean' was to emphasize the environmental-conscious world existing today, and 'Energetic' to express Honda's vitality. This design direction translated into a 'Clean-Dynamic' design concept.

The design team often referred back to their sources of inspiration to help define 'Clean- Dynamic', a 'blended body' airplane in which fuselage and wings blend into a single body for superior aerodynamic performance, quietness and habitability. Other inspiration was swimwear and track outfits worn by the athletes which provide low resistance.

Initial sketches focused on elegantly flowing designs taken from the 'blended body' airplane (a concept model designed by engineers at the University of Cambridge) and low resistance swimwear with no obvious borderlines between surfaces with bumper and fender lines blending seamlessly into the body.

The concept was a clear break in a new direction, rather than relying on sheer strength and engine power to convey a sporty image, a 'blended body' with reduced resistance would demonstrate a smarter image for the new Honda Civic.

The team returned to these sources over and over again during the design process, using them as a touchstone when they needed to reaffirm their direction.

Drive trains
The new Honda Civic  offered with three engine options: a 1.4 l petrol unit, a 1.8 l petrol unit and a 2.2 l diesel unit. All the engines are combined with a 6-speed manual gearbox, ECO Assist, advanced fueling control technology and Idle Stop. They are also equipped with Hill Start Assist. The 1.8 l engine can be paired with a specially designed 5-speed automatic transmission.

The chief goal in the engine and transmission development was to maintain the high performance driving experience whilst improving the overall efficiency of the engine resulting in lower running costs.
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Lexus IS 350, 2011

 
 
 
  •  Lexus IS 350, 2011

The Lexus IS 350 AWD model joins the IS 250 AWD, which has accounted for 30 percent (nationally) of IS 250 sales since the model's introduction. Now, IS customers can have the traction and grip of all-wheel drive with the Lexus IS 350's higher performance capability.

The F Sport Package available for the 2011 IS 250/350 RWD takes inspiration from the IS F ultra-performance sedan, combining special suspension and steering tuning and 18-inch wheels with distinctive design touches. Giving the IS 250 and IS 350 F Sport Package model a sporty demeanor are a front lip spoiler and rear deck spoiler, plus the 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark super-chrome finish. There is also a matching dark-chrome front grille insert, and a new Ultrasonic Blue exterior color is available in conjunction with the F Sport Package.
Inside, special F Sport heated front seats feature a special microfiber insert and leather side bolsters to provide more grip for the driver and passenger during cornering. The package also adds F Sport badging to the steering wheel, shift knob and doorsill scuff plates.

The Engine
The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The Lexus IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 offers a more potent 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. The IS 350 RWD model can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.

The 3.5-liter V6 also differs in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, optimizing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds.
An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the Lexus IS 350 models and the IS 250 AWD. The IS 250 RWD comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.

The Chassis
The Lexus IS models provide a sporty driving experience while also offering a supple, quiet ride. The double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension use high-strength steel and aluminum components to reduce unsprung weight. Sophisticated monotube shock-absorbers integrate multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort.

The all-wheel-drive system available for the IS 250 and IS 350 provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
The Lexus IS 350's brake system is equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors and aluminum four-piston front calipers. Standard all-season performance tires are 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 and IS 350 AWD). Eighteen-inch wheels are available.

Safety
A reinforced passenger compartment helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats. In addition to the advanced dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall occupant protection.

The IS 250 offers optional High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with LED daytime running lamps. Lexus IS 350 models feature standard HID headlamps with LED daytime running lamps and headlamp washers. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear. The exterior mirrors integrate turn signals.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, helping to alert the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system's seven-inch touch screen display.

The Luxury
The Lexus IS models include a standard leather-trimmed interior with 10-way power front seats; some competitive vehicles make a leather interior optional. The numerous standard amenities in the IS models also include dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on Lexus IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, HomeLink® and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The AWD models in addition feature standard heated seats. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse.

The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts (max.) total power, 13 speakers, iPod®/USB connectivity, Bluetooth® hands free phone and music streaming and an integrated satellite radio receiver. The Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds.

The Luxury Options
An optional Luxury Plus Package includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats, plus three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.

Like all Lexus models, the IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system's color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.

The Lexus IS also offers a telematics system, Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®, available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative XM services including XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather™ and XM Sports and Stocks services. XM services require separate XM subscriptions. The XM Sports and Stocks service is included with an XM radio subscription. All XM services offer complimentary 90-day trial subscriptions.

Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).

A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there.

The Interior Design
The IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, contribute to an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
The multi-information display located within the speedometer integrates a trip computer and an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location. When equipped with the available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.

F Sport Performance Accessories
Lexus offers a selection of F Sport Performance Accessories for the IS models, including performance-enhancing parts such as 19-inch forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust system and more. F Sport Performance Accessories by Lexus U.S.A. are engineered by Toyota Racing Development (TRD). When installed by an authorized dealer, the accessories are covered by warranty for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.
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