Lamborghini Aventador J Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Lamborghini Aventador J Concept, 2012

At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting the most uncompromising open super sports car of its entire history. The Lamborghini Aventador J is a force of nature on wheels - supremely powerful and supremely open. The Aventador J offers its pilot and co-pilot an utterly indescribable experience of power and dynamics. At the same time, the 515 kW / 700 hp two-seater is a first class technology showcase, combining innovative solutions and brand new materials and demonstrating Automobili Lamborghini's enormous expertise in carbon fiber technology.

The Lamborghini Aventador J is a radically open automobile - exterior and interior meld into each other. The designers and engineers in Sant'Agata Bolognese have not only dispensed entirely with the roof, but also with the front windshield. This requires that drivers of the Aventador J must have the right equipment for driving at top speeds higher than 300 Km/h.

The kind of driving at the limit is a highly exclusive experience - the Lamborghini Aventador J is fully functional for road use. It is an absolute one-off: a one-of-a-kind piece of art.

Continuation of a glorious tradition
With the Lamborghini Aventador J, technically based on the Aventador, Automobili Lamborghini is carrying on its glorious brand tradition. The 1970 Jota, for instance, was the stuff of legends - a Lamborghini Miura with improved performance and virtually redesigned in every detail. It remained a one-off; although some owners subsequently had their Miuras modified to look like the Jota.

The letter J is derived from the sporting rules of the FIA world motorsport organization. Its "Appendix J" defines the technical specification of race cars in the various classes.

The Aventador: Extremely open, overwhelming power
The Lamborghini Aventador J is a super sports car of positively dramatic single-mindedness and openness. It combines the overwhelming performance of the Lamborghini Aventador with the most intense experience of power and dynamics imaginable in an automobile.

The technical basis for the Aventador J is the Aventador LP 700-4, Lamborghini's new twelve-cylinder model. Presented in 2011, the Aventador has been acclaimed by customers and journalists alike. The Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4's technology package is unique - its structure is based on an innovative monocoque made from carbon fiber reinforced polymers that combines systematic lightweight design with optimum stiffness and safety. The new twelve-cylinder with a displacement of 6.5 liters and 515 kW / 700 hp combines the best in high-revving thrills with mighty pulling power. Its super-fast ISR transmission, permanent all-wheel drive and push-rod suspension combine this potent power with the utmost handling precision.

Systematic lightweight design - considerable weight reduction
Naturally, the Aventador J benefits enormously from this unique technology package. Yet the Aventador J has a significantly different interpretation to the Aventador coupé. In this open version, the monocoque has a largely new design, including the two safety bars behind the seats. The absence of a roof, of the large windshield, of the air conditioning system and of the navigation system obviously takes it to an even lower weight. With a dry weight of 1575 kilograms, the series production Aventador LP 700-4 is already extremely light for its performance class thanks to its carbon fiber construction.

Carbonskin, a brand new carbon fiber material
The unique expertise of Automobili Lamborghini in the field of carbon fiber reinforced polymers is evident not only in the hi-tech monocoque, but also in the research into further innovative solutions. Unlike traditional seats, in the Lamborghini Aventador J seats are made of Forged COMPOSITE®, with inserts of flexible carbon fiber fabrics: a result of an innovative Lamborghini patent.

The specialists at Lamborghini have developed an even more amazing version of carbon fiber material for the Aventador J. In its first automotive application, this carbon fiber fabric called "Carbonskin" is made of woven carbon fibers soaked with a very special epoxy resin that stabilizes the fiber structure and keeps the material soft. Like a hi-tech fabric, the carbon fiber mats fit perfectly to every shape. In the Aventador J, the complete cockpit and parts of the seats are clad in this material and shimmer in matt carbon fiber black. It's conceivable that in future there will be many potential applications for this freshly patented and extremely fine-looking material, even very high-end clothing.

The Design: uncompromisingly Lamborghini
An extreme Aventador obviously needs an equally single-minded design, which goes without saying at the Centro Stile Lamborghini. Every single model from Sant'Agata Bolognese bears the unique design of the brand. Clear, precise surfaces, as well as sharp, often broken lines are among the unmistakable styling tools. They consistently emphasize the power and enormous presence of these Italian super sports cars. Not one line is ever accidental - the defining principle is always 'form follows function'.

The function is very clearly defined for the Aventador J - explosive dynamics, extreme driving fun, a unique experience. Every kilometer with the Aventador J is extreme fun: something plainly evident from the very first glance.

Rear view mirror like a periscope
Virtually every part of the outer chassis was redesigned for the Aventador J, yet it shows the spirit of Lamborghini in its most concentrated form. The car's dimensions are extreme: the overall length is 4890 mm, the overall width (excluding mirrors) is 2030 mm while the height is 1110 mm.

The highest points are marked by the rear view mirror, which is perched on an arm like a periscope, and by the two safety bars behind the seats. In place of the classic front windshield there are two small wind deflectors. The occupants of the Aventador J are confronted by the element of the wind in much the same way as a superbike rider - therefore the right clothing is prerequisite for every trip.

Front scoop with winglets
The front of the Aventador J is somewhat narrower than that of the Aventador. The front end is dominated by a highly distinctive carbon fiber air scoop, with central fixing braces and upward tilting winglets on the outer edges. Viewed from the side, the front end of the Aventador J looks like a Formula 1 racing car.

Red with chrome effect, wheels with CFRP fan
The black of the carbon fiber parts is visibly evident throughout the car - the significantly wider sill elements and the mighty rear diffuser form a perfect contrast to the rich red body paintwork. The special red color was developed specifically for this Aventador - a highly intensive red with a slight chrome effect.

The wheels, of course, were also developed specifically for this car, with 20-inch rims at the front and 21-inch at the rear. The five-spoke aluminum wheels have a central lock system and an additional carbon fiber insert that functions like a small fan for optimum brake ventilation.

Naturally, the doors on the Lamborghini Aventador J also open upward. They are considerably thinner than on the Aventador and are fitted with a tiny, fixed side window. The muscular flanks around the rear wheels are hallmark Lamborghini and make it immediately apparent where this particular bull keeps his power.

Rear end purely for aerodynamics and ventilation
Because of its ample dimensions, the eye is drawn inexorably to the rear end. It consists in principle of just three elements - the carbon-fiber rear diffuser, the four huge tail pipes and the rear lights with their typical Lamborghini light signature in the form of a Y. The remaining surface area is for heat dissipation and is enclosed only by a black metal mesh. The rear end is crowned by an enormous fixed spoiler mounted on the bodyshell by two arms. 'Form follows function' to the nth degree. The spoiler is supported by two pillars connected by the diffuser: clearly inspired by racing.

Special bumpers
In comparison with the Aventador LP 700-4, the exclusive Aventador J has special front and rear bumpers. Both bumpers have been supplemented with carbon fiber fins that act as flow deviators. Their purpose is to achieve a significant increase in the vehicle's downforce at both the front and the rear.

The outside comes inside
The Aventador J's exterior and interior forms flow seamlessly into each other. This supersports car turns its inside outward and is as open as it can possibly be. Conversely, the exterior 'flows' through the interior - a red stripe runs from the front hood, between the two wind deflectors, over the dashboard, down the console to the center tunnel and back up between the seat backs, before leaving the interior and heading for the engine cover panel.

Interior is minimalist and single-minded
This band of color connects the front and the rear of the car, creates a visual separation between the driver and passenger space and is interrupted only by a small control panel housing the starter button and the switches for lights and transmission. The Lamborghini Aventador J is equipped neither with a navigation nor car audio system, nor does it have the associated screen or air conditioning controls - these would simply detract from its one and only raison d'être as an extreme driving experience. What remains, of course, are two programmable TFT displays behind the steering wheel.

The engine cover also brings the inside to the outside. To be more precise, it is not so much a cover but more a framework. This part has a new geometry (X shape) and is made of carbon fiber. Two large openings lay bare both cylinder banks of the mighty V12 power unit with its 6.5 liters of displacement - a truly stunning sight for every automobile aficionado.

A unique work of art licensed for the road
However, at the end of the Geneva Motor Show, this sight will be the preserve of just one - the future owner of the Lamborghini Aventador J. There is only one of them, no prototypes and no others for the Lamborghini Museum. The buyer can look forward to a truly unique, street-legal work of art. He will possess the most extreme expression of Lamborghini DNA in existence and a real masterpiece of high technology. But the many other fans of the super sports cars from Sant' Agata Bolognese can rest assured - the Aventador success story has only just begun.

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Toyota Camry AU Version, 2012

 

 

 

 

Toyota Camry AU Version, 2012

The 2012 Camry combines a new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission that deliver better performance while substantially cutting fuel bills and emissions.
Built in Australia, new Toyota Camry features expanded safety features, a more comfortable ride, better handling and added refinement, including an even quieter cabin.

The new range introduces two distinct looks to expand buyer appeal - an entry-level Altise and three new Atara variants.

The Atara models have unique styling, including the lower-body design, a sporty mesh upper grille, prominent side skirts and twin exhausts.
Advanced features at the top of the range include a blind-spot monitor to help prevent collisions and automatic high beam that automatically dips headlights at night to avoid blinding other drivers.

The new range arrives with zero price increases for the Altise at $30,490 and the range-topping Atara SL at $39,990, which replaces the Grande.
Price increases for Atara S (replaces Ateva) and Atara SX (Sportivo) are outweighed by added features.

Toyota Australia senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said the keen pricing delivers even better value to consumers.
Body, electrical and chassis engineers from the Toyota Technical Center in Melbourne contributed to the development of Toyota Camry as a global car from as early as 2006.

They also tuned and tested local versions to meet the demands of Australian motorists and road conditions, including calibrations for the electric power steering, blind-spot monitor and automatic high beam.
Designers at Toyota Style Australia were responsible for the interior fabrics and colour and trim of the local cars.

Camry Altise delivers 133kW of power and 231Nm of torque, substantial gains over the 117kW and 218Nm of the previous generation.

Atara variants gain twin exhausts that help lift output to 135kW and 235Nm for gains of 15 per cent and eight per cent respectively over the previous engine.
All Atara grades - S, sporty SX and luxury SL - have paddle shifts at the driver's fingertips, delivering greater driver involvement and enjoyment.

Fuel economy across the range is just 7.8 litres/100km - an improvement of one litre per 100km, which means up to an extra 100km from a tank of unleaded petrol.
It is estimated that, based on this fuel economy improvement, the total saving for Toyota Camry motorists is approximately $150 million in fuel bills over the model's life (based on a fuel price of $1.40 per litre).

Toyota has cut CO2 emissions by 25 grams/km, which equates to a quarter of a million fewer tonnes being produced over five years across the Camry fleet, compared with the current car.
Altise epitomises Camry's quality, durability and reliability and is ideal for those who demand a comfortable and pleasant mobile office with low whole-of-life costs.

It has seven airbags, better braking and brake feel, vehicle stability and traction control, anti-skid brakes, a stronger body structure and a new seat frame that makes driving more comfortable.
The introduction of electric power steering across the range, along with refinements to the suspension, has led to significant improvements to handling and ride comfort.
Altise is also equipped with 16-inch alloys, trip computer and an upgraded sound system with six speakers and controls on the steering wheel.

Atara S also features foglamps, 17-inch alloys, smart entry and smart start, reversing camera, dual-zone air-conditioning, 6.1-inch touch-screen display audio, premium steering wheel and gearshift knob and an electric driver's seat with lumbar support.
Atara SX is distinguished by unique rear bumper, rear lip spoiler, sports pedals, sports suspension, black-tinted headlamps and sports leather-accented interior.

Top of the range Atara SL features JBL premium audio with 10 speakers, a 7-inch touch-screen display with satellite navigation, digital radio, RDS live traffic updates, reversing camera with back-guide monitor, blind-spot monitor, automatic high beam, electric front seats and rain-sensing wipers.

New Camry is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price servicing, which has been extended to four years / 75,000km and up to five services at $130 per service for the new range.

New accessories include 17-inch alloy wheels and bodyside mouldings with chrome inserts.

Two objectives for new Camry
Toyota set two objectives for the new Camry in the face of changed market conditions and new competitors, according to the deputy chief engineer Keiichi Yoneda.

Mr Yoneda said this was achieved by developing:
    a fresh new "look", especially with the Atara models
    a superior "ride" with exceptional NVH
    enhanced "drive" with the new engine and transmission
    a review and upgrade of Toyota quality, durability and reliability
    impressive fuel efficiency, and
    advanced specifications and safety features.

Toyota Camry Altise is the choice of fleets
Toyota Camry has been Australia's number-one selling fleet vehicle in the medium segment for 17 years running.
Toyota says that on the back of this success the new model will continue with a tried and tested formula.

Atara models to expand Camry's appeal
Toyota Camry Atara is designed to expand the appeal of Australia's best-selling mid-size car to even more customers.

Atara is a new badge that will appear on Camry models targeted mainly at private buyers and those who choose their cars through salary sacrifice or novated leases.
Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing David Buttner said Atara embues Camry with the added style and sophistication these customers expect.

The new models are Atara S (replacing Ateva), Atara SX (Sportivo) and Atara SL (Grande).
Mr Buttner said the Atara name and strategy are unique to Australia and add an extra dimension to Camry, which remains one of the most valuable nameplates in the industry.

Atara is the Hebrew word for crown - which is a natural extension of Camry, which also means crown. It is also a derivation of the Japanese word atarashii, which means new.

New Camry: sharper styling and differentiation
Bolder, more advanced styling is the hallmark of new-generation Camry.
Special attention was paid to increasing the level of differentiation between Toyota Camry Altise and Atara.
Atara has a sporty appearance with a sports bumper, side skirts and a dual exhaust system.
Toyota has adopted new exterior colours, including Reflex Blue and Dynamic Black.
The new exterior for Camry Altise emphasises low and wide proportions, with a more integrated front grille and headlamps and a great sense of width.
Aerodynamic performance, cooling and pedestrian safety have all been enhanced, while the grille has been enlarged and enhanced.
Both sides of the bumper grille have been greatly emphasised and the upper grille is an air-intake type.

The trapezoidal shape of the rear bumper draws attention to the tyres, expressing the vehicle's strong stance.

Dynamic, clean design was the key to the side profile, with aero corners on the sides of the front and rear bumpers for improved aerodynamics.

Atara has been styled with more sporty proportions to appeal to private buyers.

The headlamps merge naturally with the mesh grille to create a sporty impression of width.

The lower grille has been divided into three sections. The side openings incorporate foglamps and, on Atara S and SL, have horizontal chrome-accented bars.

Atara SX's rear view emphasises width and agile sportiness, with a double aperture rear bumper design and a rear spoiler.

A character line on the Atara SX rear bumper matches the design of the vehicle's front end.

The side skirts have been extended further to link the front and rear styling.

Two new alloy wheel designs are used: a ten-spoke design for the 16-inch Altise wheel and a new 17-inch alloy with five pairs of asymmetric spokes for Atara.

Camry interior has a local flavour
Local designers at Toyota Style Australia (TSA) were responsible for the interior fabrics and colour and trim of the new Camry and Atara range.
Output for the new 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine - which replaces the current 2.4-litre unit - rises from 117kW to 133kW.
On Toyota Camry Atara models, the twin exhausts gain an extra 2kW - an overall percentage increase of 15.4 per cent.

Torque is improved from 218Nm to to 231Nm for Camry - or 235Nm with the twin exhausts - including substantial increases in the mid range.

The new engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Mr Buttner said Toyota would also achieve environmental benefits with its new Global Engine Line, where the new engine will be produced from the latter half of 2012.
He said it incorporated highly efficient new plant and equipment, contributing further to the reduction in CO2 emissions.

New Camry engine: more efficient, better combustion
Greater efficiency, reduced friction losses and improved combustion in the new Camry engine deliver better performance while using less fuel.
Variable valve timing has been extended to the exhaust as well as the intake camshaft, improving thermal efficiency and increasing exhaust gas recirculation, which in turn reduces emissions.
Toyota uses the acronym VVT-i - with the "i" standing for the intelligent way the system optimises valve timing across the engine operating range, providing maximum performance and fuel efficiency.

The introduction of variable exhaust timing reduces pumping losses and increases the amount of exhaust gas recirculation, for reduced emissions.

The system reduces emissions even when the engine is cold, for example, at morning start-up.
Camry's 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine also has a new acoustically controlled induction system, which improves torque from 2000 to 4000rpm in the heart of the driving range.

The intake manifold design is lightweight, quiet and made from a multi-function resin that improves airflow.
The design of the new intake port has been optimised through computer-aided engineering.
It delivers high power output and improved fuel efficiency by ensuring high air flow and intake tumble flow.
Other engine features include low-tension piston rings, an offset crankshaft, three-stage variable output oil pump and roller rocker arms.
These deliver improved fuel economy, lower emissions, high power output and reduced vibration and noise.
Highly efficient intake ports, compact combustion chambers and higher compression ratio all improve combustion.

During the research and development phase in Japan, the cylinder head was redesigned to improve output, fuel efficiency and emissions performance.

The current AZ cylinder head is made as a single part.
The new cylinder head is made in two parts to accommodate roller rocker arms and to simplify the manufacturing process.
The result is a more complex and sophisticated component, the shape of which has been optimised through computer-aided engineering.
It is a slim and lightweight design with hydraulic lash adjusters and a larger valve diameter, enhancing output.
The AR engine does a much better job of accommodating the heat generated, especially with the increased 10.4:1 compression ratio (from 9.6:1).

Temperature is also controlled with the use of sub-water jackets inside the cylinder block.
The cylinder bores change shape as the engine warms up, controlling thermal expansion and allowing higher temperatures to be reached.
The use of roller rocker arms, rather than the current system of valve lifters on a flat surface, results in better fuel economy due to significantly reduced friction between the cams and the sliding parts.

New Camry has improved steering, ride and handling
New-generation Toyota Camry has an all-new chassis package designed to provide increased stability and agility, coupled with a flat ride, high-quality damping feel and improved steering feel.

Camry has a new aerodynamic package, increased body and steering system rigidity, newly adopted electric power steering and improved tyre performance.
Engineers from Toyota Technical Center Australia (TTC-Au) have tuned the chassis package to Australian driving tastes and conditions.
Camry's new body has 20 per cent more rigidity in the front suspension mounting sections, thanks to changes in the upper cowl design.

The increased body rigidity allows force generated by the tyres to be transmitted to the body without delay, improving handling stability.
This allows the dampers to be recalibrated to provide the same level of compression damping with less damper force, thereby increasing ride comfort.

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Porsche 911 Black Edition, 2011

 

 

 

 

Porsche 911 Black Edition, 2011

The Porsche 911 Black Edition offer the core 911 principles of distinctive design with inner strength; with a high level of specification that emphasises the iconic styling of the car and enhances the interior, while retaining the authentic sporting character of the driving experience.

The Porsche 911 Black Edition is painted in plain black as standard, with Basalt Black metallic available as an option. The electric-folding hood of the Cabriolet model is trimmed in black cloth. Exterior highlights are provided by the 19-inch 911 Turbo II forged alloy wheels, the glossy metallic appearance of which perfectly complements the discreet elegance of these 911 models. In addition, the wheel rims provide an unobstructed view of the brake discs which are naturally paired with black-finished, four-piston aluminium monobloc fixed callipers.

Black lettering on the stainless steel door entry guards identifies each 'Black Edition', and provides a first hint of the high-quality interior design with its focus on pure sports car values. Inside, the colour theme of the exterior continues with a black leather interior, and facing the driver is a thick-rimmed SportDesign steering wheel. The instrument cluster naturally remains in black. On the glove compartment lid, a badge testifies to the limited production run of the Porsche 911 Black Edition. By way of contrast, the decorative fascia strip, gear lever and air vents are finished in aluminium-look paint. The rear centre console is painted in the exterior colour.

Together with the characteristic exhaust note of the flat-six 3.6-litre engine, a further acoustic highlight of the Porsche 911 Black Edition is the BOSE® Surround Sound-System that is fitted as standard. This was specially coordinated with the interior of the 911 Carrera and comprises 13 loudspeakers (twelve in the Cabriolet) including an active subwoofer and central speaker as well as a seven channel digital amplifier. Combined, this delivers a total output of 385 W for an immersive sound experience.

On the Black Edition models is satellite navigation, and a universal audio interface in the central console storage compartment that enables an MP3 player to be connected to the audio. Every Porsche 911 Black Edition also features rear ParkAssist, cruise control, automatic dimming anti-dazzle interior and exterior mirrors, and rain-sensing windscreen wipers.

The technology of the Porsche 911 Black Edition conforms to the Carrera standard: Under the rear lid is to be found the typical Carrera flat-six cylinder engine, producing 345 hp (245 kW) at 6,500 rpm from 3,614cc. Coupled with the six-speed gearbox, this output delivers a top speed of 180 mph (289 km/h) in both body versions. At its maximum acceleration, the Coupé reaches 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds, the Cabriolet in 5.1 seconds. Combined with such impressive performance figures are remarkably moderate running costs; the Porsche 911 Black Series Coupé, for example, returns 27.4mpg Combined (NEDC).

The Porsche 911 Black Edition enjoys the same technical special equipment options that are offered for all Carrera models. First and foremost is the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch gearbox. A 911 Carrera with PDK turns in record performances thanks to the seven ratios and quick gear changes achieved with no interruption to the power flow. On the one hand fuel consumption: at 29.4 mpg (9.6 l/100 km) and 28.5 mpg (9.9 l/100 km) for the closed and open-top 911 respectively, the Carreras dip under the 10 l/100km threshold. 

On the other hand dynamics: with PDK, the Coupé accomplishes the sprint in only 4.7 seconds, the Cabrio in 4.9 seconds. Responsiveness can also be further enhanced by the optional Sport Chrono Plus package. It features the additional "Launch Control" function for the fastest possible acceleration from a standing start allied with a gearshift strategy for extremely sporty driving that enables very fast gearshifts. Launch Control shaves a further 0.2 seconds off the acceleration times of vehicles equipped with PDK.

The sportiness and comfort of the Porsche 911 Black Edition can be enhanced further if so desired. For example, the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and as an additional option for the Coupé, the PASM with sports chassis lowered by 20 millimetres and mechanical rear limited slip differential. To further optimisebraking performance, Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are also available at extra cost.

The Porsche 911 Black Edition goes on sale in the UK and Ireland from April 2011 and is priced from £67,270 for the Coupé and £74,958 for the Cabriolet - the same price as the standard 911 Carrera models.

Included in the purchase price is the invitation for customers to explore the dynamic attributes of their 911 and develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

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Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Victoria Beckham, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Victoria Beckham, 2012

The Range Rover Evoque created the premium compact SUV segment since going on sale in September 2011. Recipient of more than 100 international awards, the Evoque has been an unprecedented global success attracting a whole new group of customers to Land Rover.

Thanks to its unique combination of dramatic design underpinned by the brand's core credentials of capability and luxury, 70% of customers are new to the SUV segment and the Land Rover brand.

Personalisation has formed a key part of the Range Rover Evoque's appeal. Each of the three standard trim levels - Pure, Prestige and Dynamic - can be further individualised with a huge range of options from alloy wheel designs and contrasting roof colours to 16 'Designer Choice' interiors.

Now, Land Rover has extended the principle by offering an exclusively designed Range Rover Evoque Special Edition created as a result of a collaboration between Land Rover Design, led by Gerry McGovern with Victoria Beckham, winner of the coveted Designer Brand of the Year award at the 2011 British Fashion Awards.

Design overview
The Special Edition built at Halewood manufacturing facility in Liverpool and hand- finished by Land Rover's Engineering to Order division (ETO),

Essential to the design is the high quality hand-finished matt grey paint, with contrasting gloss black finishes on the roof, side, bonnet vents, wheel arches and wheels, giving the overall vehicle a stealth-like quality.

Further underlining the bespoke luxury theme of this vehicle is the use of rose-gold accents on the unique 20" gloss black forged alloy wheels, badging and grille surround limited solely to this Special Edition.

Complimenting the ultra-modern, stealth-like exterior is an elegant and luxurious interior. The sport design four-seats are finished in a semi-aniline Vintage Tan leather - with a bold, hand-finished 'baseball' stitch detail, chosen by Victoria as a tongue-in-cheek reference to her sporting husband David. The same leather is also used to cover the door inserts, arm rests and central storage box lid.

Continuing the exterior theme is the application of rose-gold to the interior where it can be found on the centre console rotary switches and Drive Select Rotary Shifter.

Other surfaces have been deliberately understated to reflect the exterior through the extensive use of soft feel black paint on the switchgear, a piano black centre console and dark textured machined aluminium.

Ultra-luxurious mohair mats and microsuede headlining heighten the sense of occasion still further. The all-encompassing vision of this car extends to the loadspace which is trimmed in the same quality materials and will come with an exclusive four-piece leather luggage set lined in the same microsuede as the rooflining.

A hand stitched leather wallet, with rose-gold detail containing a guide to the exclusive features of the car is co-branded Range Rover Evoque and signed by Victoria Beckham.

Victoria Beckham explains the approach: "When I first started working with Gerry and the design team, on the Evoque Special Edition I did a lot of research, and created mood boards to show the team my love of timeless and classic design. I looked at yachts, luxury jets, classic cars, movies, personalities and fashion.

"It's the small detail that makes all the difference. I want everyone who gets into this car to feel special and empowered by its quality and craftsmanship. I like that it feels luxurious but also has quite a classic edge to it as well as a contemporary feel."

Land Rover Director of Design, Gerry McGovern said: "Working with Victoria in our design studio at Gaydon certainly created a buzz within the team. But we quickly recognised our similar design tastes and ambition for this car. For example at the first meeting, Victoria herself inspired the use of rose gold. She was wearing dark clothes and no jewellery apart from a rose gold, man's watch. I was struck by the juxtaposition of the masculine watch on a very elegant, feminine wrist. We both agreed it was the ideal way to introduce a softer touch to this bold, assertive exterior colour scheme.

The Range Rover Evoque Special Edition with Victoria Beckham is limited to a maximum of 200 vehicles to be sold worldwide. The vehicle is a four-seat coupé, powered by the lightweight, all-aluminium 240PS 2.0-litre petrol engine and features four-wheel drive with Land Rover's award-winning Terrain Response system.

On sale first in China with deliveries due from October 2012.

Design
Essential to the design, was the development of a hand-finished matt paint that gives the car a, stealth-like appearance and maintains the solidity of the original design. The colour also serves to highlight the inherent drama of the Evoque's design. The vehicle's carefully crafted proportions come to the fore with the use of a Santorini Black gloss finish on the roof, the sills and wheel arches, which serves to contrast the matt finish bodywork. Gloss black is further used for the bonnet and side vents, Range Rover lettering, lower bodywork finishers, exhaust finishers and fog lamp surrounds. Changes to the materials used in the head and tail lamps darken their appearance in keeping with the overall aesthetic.

Offering a counterpoint to the paint finish the rose gold is applied as 'ingots' to the unique 20" gloss black forged alloy wheels and as a surround for the grille, which features a new horizontal bar design reserved solely for this special edition. The badges on the tailgate and in the side vents feature the Evoque name picked out in rose gold lettering.

Interior
Quintessential British luxury is a hallmark of both the Land Rover and Victoria Beckham brands. This special edition allows that impression to be further heightened through the use of the finest quality materials and craftsmanship, which highlight the already ultra-premium interior ambience of the Evoque.

Unique to this model is the Vintage inspired tan leather in a semi-aniline finish which retains the grain and the softness of the hide for a gentler, more luxurious feel. Used on the Evoque's Sports seat this bold, eye-catching design provides an inviting counterpoint to the exterior and is finished with a hand-finished 'baseball' stitch. The same leather is also used to cover the door inserts, arm rests and central storage box lid.

Ebony soft-feel black paint has been used for all the switchgear while the gloss black exterior touches are mirrored here in the use of a piano black veneer on the centre console, bezels, door handles and air vents. Rose gold is used to subtle effect on the bezels on the centre console that control the heating and ventilation and around the Drive Select Rotary Shifter. Machined aluminium in a dark technical finish is used on the central 'hockey sticks' that frame the centre console.

Victoria Beckham inspired the exclusive and ultra-luxurious floor mats. The designer explained that when she was a young girl, her father owned a Rolls-Royce and she would enjoy taking her shoes off to sink her bare feet into the thick carpeting. Range Rover's designers replicated this for her by using mohair, usually reserved for luxury clothing, to make the mats. Another soft feel fabric, microsuede has been used for the rooflining.

Bespoke luggage completes the holistic design package that is the Range Rover Evoque Special Edition with Victoria Beckham. This four-piece set is based on the designer's own luggage range, using the same high-quality internal structure and clothed in hand stitched black leather. The set comprises his and hers two wheeled suitcases and wash bags, all of which incorporate the microsuede used for the rooflining and as a finishing touch, the zip pulls are finished in smoked chrome, complimenting the matt grey exterior finish.

Equipment
Enhancing the experience for driver and passengers is the fitment of the highest levels of equipment to enhance the experience for driver and passengers. The 825W audio system is provided by British experts Meridian® and features 17-speakers and state-of-the-art amplifiers to create the company's patented Trifield® surround sound which delivers all-enveloping sound to all four seats.

Driving the Evoque is made effortlessly easy with the myriad functions of the car accessed through the eight-inch touchscreen mounted high in the centre console. This features graphics that give the impression of 3D on-screen buttons, supplemented by hard keys on either side which provide shortcuts to top level menu functions. In markets in which it is available, the central screen also features innovative Dual View technology which allows two different images to be displayed simultaneously so for example the driver can view satellite navigation instructions while the front-seat passenger watches a DVD.

Dynamics
The Range Rover Evoque Special Edition has all the performance, ability and security expected of any Land Rover. The Evoque also features Land Rover's hallmark full-time, four-wheel drive and award-winning Terrain Response® system. This allows swift and straightforward optimisation of the vehicle for different off-road conditions with the driver merely needing to select the appropriate programme depending on whether the car is crossing grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, or sand, using the Terrain Response Optimisation Switch.

It is powered by the lightweight, all-aluminium 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 240PS and 340Nm of torque delivered to the wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel mounted paddles for full driver control befitting its position as the most agile Range Rover. Further aiding the driver are two innovative systems, the first is the Surround Camera System which offers a 360-degree view of the car's surroundings. Secondly is Park Assist, which automatically steers the Evoque into a suitable parking space while the driver operates the accelerator and brake.

Optimising it for the best on-road driving experience is an Adaptive Dynamics system which monitors vehicle movements 1,000 times a second to offer the best balance between handling and a controlled, comfortable ride. MagneRide® dampers are filled with a magnetic fluid that allows for infinitely variable damping control.

Nimble responses are heightened still further by the Dynamic option on Terrain Response which ties these systems together to deliver sharper handling and tighter body control for an even more rewarding driving experience. To add a real sense of occasion, automatic colour changes are activated when the driver chooses the Dynamic option, changing the ambient lighting and dials to red.

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Honda Crosstour, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  Honda Crosstour, 2012

The 2012 Honda Crosstour approaches the crossover SUV formula from a distinctively sleek, sporty and fuel-efficient perspective while also maximizing the interior's cargo capacity, versatility and premium feel. For 2012, the official name becomes Crosstour, replacing Accord Crosstour (2010 and 2011 models).

The Honda Crosstour's exterior design emphasizes a bold, aerodynamic look that also conceals an accommodating rear cargo area with a large, lift-over tailgate. Premium interior styling, appointments and details extend from the passenger compartment all the way through the cargo area. An under-floor storage area in the rear of the vehicle adds functionality, while reversible cargo floor panels accommodate dirty objects.

The Honda Crosstour is in two trim levels, the Crosstour EX and EX-L, with Real Time 4WD also available on the EX-L model. For 2012, new features on the Crosstour EX include auto on/off headlights, a rearview camera, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and USB audio interface. Two new colors are also available on all Crosstour models: Twilight Blue Metallic replaces Glacier Blue Metallic, and Basque Red Pearl replaces Tango Red Pearl.

Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional safety equipment on the Crosstour includes Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, and active front seat head restraints.

The Honda Crosstour comes standard with a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) for power and efficiency. The engine produces 271 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 254 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 RPM, while achieving an EPA-rated city/highway/combined fuel economy of 18/27/21 mpg on 2WD models. Meanwhile the Crosstour EX-L with Real Time 4WD delivers an EPA-rated city/highway/combined fuel economy rating of 18/26/21 mpg.

To maximize efficiency, the engine's VCM cylinder deactivation system is programmed to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders, based on current power requirements, and a technologically advanced 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment. For true utility-vehicle capability, the Honda Crosstour provides 6.2 inches of maximum ground clearance in addition to the available Real Time 4WD system.

Besides its new-for-2012 auto on/off headlights, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and USB audio interface, standard features on the Crosstour EX include projector-beam headlights, fog lights, 17-inch aluminum wheels with P225/65R17 all-season tires, a moonroof, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, chrome door handles, auto up/down driver and front passenger side windows and rear privacy glass. Inside are dual-zone automatic air conditioning with second-row ventilation, a 360-watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with seven speakers, steering wheel-integrated audio controls, a compass and outside temperature indicator, cruise control, an easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seatback, a hidden removable utility box and more.

Honda Crosstour EX-L adds 18-inch aluminum wheels with P225/60R18 all-season tires, leather-trimmed seating surfaces with heated front seats, a memory driver-side seat and memory side mirrors with reverse tilting capability, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob, Kevlar cone audio speakers, front aluminum dome-type tweeter speakers, an auto day/night dimming rearview mirror, a HomeLink transmitter and a cargo privacy cover.

The Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System and the Real Time 4WD mentioned above are available together or separately on the Crosstour EX-L. The Navigation system includes a rearview camera with guidance lines integrated into the display.

The Honda Crosstour is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts.

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