BMW 1-Series Coupe, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  BMW 1-Series Coupe, 2012

BMW announced several modifications to the 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe that accentuate efficiency and premium quality. The unmistakable profile of the BMW 1-Series Coupe, which represents the purest expression of BMW DNA is now sharper than ever. The new design of the front fascia on the 128i includes BMW's innovative Air Curtain that counters turbulence near the wheel arches and so reduces the aerodynamic resistance of the vehicle. New exterior design accents have been incorporated into the headlight and tail light clusters. In the interior, new switches and controls have a more refined look and feel. The updated BMW 1-Series Coupe will go on sale in the Spring of 2011.

In 2008 BMW introduced the 1-Series to the US, an authentic performance coupe that drew inspiration from the iconic BMW 2002 model of some 40 years ago. As perhaps the next BMW legend, the BMW 1-Series Coupe represents the core BMW philosophy of pure performance, compact dimensions, and premium design. By combining sporty rear-wheel-drive dynamics, agile handling, powerful engines and seating for four, the 2012 1-Series Coupe continues to reinvent the niche that the legendary BMW 2002 created.

Powerful engines, the rear-wheel drive typical of the brand and inspirational agility make the BMW 1-Series Coupe stand out from the crowd. It possesses characteristics unique in the compact premium vehicle segment.

With these updates, the BMW 1-Series Coupe develops further as one of the most desirable Ultimate Driving Machines® in the business. Two versions are available: the 128i Coupe and the 135i Coupe. Each has been enhanced to improve convenience and comfort for the BMW 1-Series' fourth model year.

Powered by a 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline-6 engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque, the 128i Coupe features BMW's Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology and aluminum/magnesium construction - core elements of BMW's EfficientDynamics. The 2012 BMW 135i features BMW's newest, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine. Equipped with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and BMW's revolutionary Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, the engine produces 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Referred to internally as the "N55", the engine reaches peak torque at 1,200 rpm and maintains peak torque all the way to 5,000 rpm. With High Precision direct gasoline injectors, optimum performance and fuel efficiency are achieved with even faster engine response across the entire engine speed range. For the 135i Coupe, acceleration from 0-60 mph is accomplished with the standard 6-speed manual transmission in 5.1 seconds.

The 135i can be equipped with BMW's 7-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT), as featured on the BMW Z4 Roadster. Equipped with DCT, the 135i Coupe will accomplish the 0-60 mph sprint in a scorching 5.0 seconds. A 6-speed Steptronic automatic remains optional on the 128i. So equipped, the 128i Coupe runs 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds, or 6.1 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual transmission.

Innovative Aerodynamics: Air Curtains
Consistency between form and function is crucial to engineers at BMW who seek perfect balance of various aerodynamic factors in the wind tunnel. As a result, the new Air Curtain is BMW's latest aerodynamic innovation. Introduced first on the BMW 1-Series M Coupe, the Air Curtain will now be a standard feature on the 128i Coupe. The Air Curtain improves air flow around the front wheel arches with the benefit of significantly reduced turbulence. The 128i Coupe can also be equipped with special Aero Wheels to further enhance the performance of the Air Curtain system.

The innovative feature consists of openings in the outer section of the lower front fascia that route high-pressure air through ducts at each front corner. The ducts are approximately 10 x 3 centimeters wide and are designed to channel air to openings at the front of each wheel arch, where it is discharged through a very narrow opening at high speed. The escaping air stream covers the side of the front wheels like a curtain, thereby reducing aerodynamically unfavorable turbulence around the rotating wheels.

Air Curtain has a key role to play in the development of future aerodynamic innovations. An example of the air curtain principle was first presented in the concept study BMW Vision EfficientDynamics at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in 2009, and the developers of the BMW 1-Series M Coupe took on the pioneering task of applying this element to a production vehicle. To do so, they utilized the unique capabilities of the new full-scale "rolling road" Aerolab wind tunnel at the BMW Group's new Aerodynamic Testing Center. Now it has been added to the 128i Coupe.

Good looks with sporting intentions
The 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe combines unique, dynamic and unmistakable design elements with a powerful and muscular body. The greenhouse with its characteristic "Hofmeister kink" is moved rearward and offers a particularly nimble look with its long hood. The short overhangs, long wheelbase and large frameless doors sit on a body with a striking shoulder line for a modern interpretation of BMW's characteristic look. On the 135i Coupe, an M Aerodynamic Kit is standard.

The 1-Series boasts aggressive rear end styling. The trunklid has an integrated spoiler chiselled into the rear end of the car to accentuate the short rear section. On the 135i, an additional lip spoiler provides greater downforce on the rear end at high speeds. The individual sections within the L-shaped rear taillights give the vehicle a lower, sportier look. Horizontal elements integrated in the rear light clusters offer a homogeneous lighting effect. When equipped with Adaptive Xenon headlights (standard on 135i), these horizontal elements are powered by light-emitting diodes (LEDs). This light design, as found on other BMW models, makes the BMW 1-Series Coupe stand out at night. Also, the Adaptive Brake Lights, which operate in two stages relative to brake application force, are yet another feature typical of BMW with the benefit of added safety.

The standard Adaptive Xenon headlights (optional on the 128i) complete with integrated Cornering Lights make driving in the dark safer than ever. The daytime running lights function in typical BMW style with two corona rings on each headlight unit enhances the perception of the car under normal and "murky" light conditions.

Luxurious interior appointments with today's technology
The innovative interior design incorporates high-quality and sophisticated trim elements with luxurious upholstery and color choices. A 60/40 split rear seat is standard. The control console for the entertainment and air conditioning functions is integrated smoothly and harmoniously into the dashboard through its soft radii and flowing surfaces. Added in 2009, a Heated Steering Wheel is included in the optional Cold Weather Package for the 128i Coupe, and is available as a stand-alone option on the 135i Coupe (Cold Weather Package required). BMW's iDrive controller featured in the optional Navigation system is integrated into the center console, again following BMW's philosophy of good ergonomic design. Galvanized pearl gloss surfaces adorn the interior door handles, the glove compartment handle, the radio's rotary knob, the knobs of the automatic air conditioning system, the iDrive Controller, and the ornamental trim strips featured on the sports steering wheel.

The BMW 1-Series Coupe is available with a choice of two upholstery options - sporty and comfortable Leatherette or rich Boston Leather. Boston Leather upholstery adds further style to the high-quality impression of the interior. For 2012, a new interior trim option is available. All the trim elements may be ordered in Gloss White for a sporty and fresh look. The optional Sport Package includes sports bucket seats with enhanced side support which are available in highly distinctive leatherette materials or Boston leather.

High-tech suspension with Electronic differential
In typical BMW configuration, the BMW 1-Series Coupe transmits power to the rear wheels exclusively. This concept- engine at the front, drive wheels at the rear - guarantees optimum traction, near-perfect weight distribution front-to-rear, excellent directional stability, and predictable handling.

The BMW 1-Series Coupe has a sophisticated suspension system with an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension in lightweight steel. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also includes a Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function that provides electronic intervention to prevent loss of vehicle control, but at a higher threshold before activation. This allows the driver to experience more spirited driving on dry roads and offers more flexibility when driving in more challenging conditions such as in snow. If the driver desires, both DSC and DTC can be disabled entirely. Optional Active Steering - a variable ratio steering system exclusive to BMW - is available only on the 135i Coupe. In addition to its duties as a safety system, the DSC system on the 135i Coupe is designed specifically to enhance performance-oriented driving.

The rear differential on the 1-Series comes from a new generation of final drives optimized for running smoothness and fuel efficiency. Featuring double-helical ball bearings for the first time, the differential runs at an even lower operating temperature reached more quickly than before thanks to the reduction of fluid required in the differential. Electronic rear brake management is always used to simulate a differential lock for stronger acceleration in turns and low-traction conditions.

The front suspension on the BMW 1-Series is also built to a unique standard in its competitive group. The double-pivot spring and strut front suspension with its anti-roll bar, is made largely of aluminum and offers an optimum combination of stiffness and low weight. The stable track control arms and thrust rods, as well as near-perfect wheel positioning, make an important contribution to the car's driving dynamics.

M-inspired design for the M Sport Package
Model year 2009 saw the introduction of a new M Sport Package, available on both models of the BMW 1-Series Coupe. Features of the M Sport Package include an Aero kit for reduced lift at speed (standard on 135i) , an increased top speed limiter, better brake cooling, and enhanced aesthetics while the Sports Suspension offers higher traction and reduced body roll with unique wheels and performance tires. On the 135i Coupe, the Sports Suspension also includes a high-performance brake system incorporating 6-piston fixed calipers on the front and 2-piston calipers at the rear. Additionally, the M Sport Package for both models includes BMW Individual high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, sport seats, BMW Individual anthracite headliner, and M branded trim components including driver footrest, gearshift knob (for manual transmission), and door sills. Finally, LeMans Blue Metallic exterior paint is available exclusively when the M Sport Package is ordered.

High safety standards exceed international requirements
No less than six airbags come standard within the 2011 BMW 1-Series Coupe for optimum protection of the car's occupants. The advanced frontal airbags are activated in stages relative to impact severity while the side airbags integrated into the sides of the front seat backrests reduce the risk of injury at chest and hip levels in side impact situations. HPS (Head Protection System) side curtain airbags fitted in the roof lining protect both the occupants on the front seats and the passengers at the rear. The 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe also comes with crash-optimized seats with active headrests that significantly reduc the risk of neck injury in an impact from the rear.

All seats within the BMW 1-Series Coupe are fitted with three-point inertia-reel seat belts and headrests, with the front seat belts fastened on the frames of the driver's and front passenger's seats, keeping the belt in an optimum position around the occupant's hips regardless of seat height or for-aft seat adjustment. Also, the driver's pedals move back automatically with a predetermined amount of deformation in the event of a frontal collision so that the risk of driver foot injury is reduced. And last but not least, the rear seats come standard with LATCH attachments for child seats.

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Jaguar XKR, 2012

 

 

 

 

• Jaguar XKR, 2012

The Jaguar XK was the first car created entirely under the aegis of Design Director Ian Callum. Dramatic and purposeful, yet as sensuous as only a Jaguar can be, the XK now receives a number of revisions that reinforce its contemporary, assertive character.

The latest lighting technology has allowed the front headlamps to be made slimmer and at the same time incorporate LED signal functions and running lights. Combined with a larger grille and new bumper design, this gives the XK instant 'rear-view mirror' recognition. Unmistakably a Jaguar, each model in the range gains unique styling attributes that distinguish it from its siblings. Chrome mesh grilles on the XK are replaced with matt black detailing on the XKR while the flagship XKR-S receives a unique front bumper underlining its sense of purpose.

The power vent along the front wing has been altered from a vertical to horizontal design with a mesh insert. Emblazoned with the Jaguar name, it serves to emphasise the potential inherent in the XK's design. To the rear, the boot lid has been revised with a slimmer chrome finisher which allows the car to be graced by the famous Jaguar 'leaper', bringing it into line with the rest of the company's products.

Complementing the design changes are 17 paint colours, five of which are new and a range of alloy wheels that now total 11 different designs ranging in size from 18 to 20 inches. A further opportunity for owners to express their individuality is available through the 'Black Pack', now also available as an option on the naturally aspirated cars as well as the Jaguar XKR. This replaces exterior chrome with a matt black finish, complemented by 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels. On the Jaguar XKR, the package also includes body coloured aerodynamic enhancements and optional side graphics.

XK Powertrain and Dynamics
Jaguar sports cars have a reputation for blending athletic high-performance with effortless cruising comfort. Nothing exemplifies this dual character more clearly than the XK's 5.0-litre AJ-V8 engine.

Now in its third generation this offers not only tremendous power but also great efficiency by incorporating the very latest technology including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT). Like the car itself, the engine is constructed from high-grade, lightweight aluminium, which in the cylinder heads is recycled to reduce the environmental impact of manufacture.

New 186mph XKR-S
Available in both naturally aspirated and supercharged forms from the beginning, the engine is now offered in a third variant in the XKR-S. Based on the supercharged unit in the Jaguar XKR, revised fuel mapping and an active exhaust have boosted power and torque to 550PS and 680Nm respectively, creating the most powerful Jaguar road car ever. This allows the car to reach 60mph in just 4.2 seconds and join the exclusive '300km/h' club with a limited top speed of 186mph. Not only extremely powerful but also efficient, the XKR-S emits just 292g/km of CO2.

All variants of the XK use the six-speed ZF automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles to control the Jaguar Sequential Shift function for greater driver control. In the XKR-S the transmission has been revised in line with the increased power and torque to optimise upshifts and allow for the increased top speed.

The XK's exhilarating driving dynamics are the result of the latest generation of Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics technology that provides a continuous and seamlessly variable damping strategy to negate the traditional trade-off between ride comfort and handling.

Luxury and performance duality
Adaptive Dynamics performs three main functions; controlling vertical body movement, roll and pitch rates. One hundred times every second, Adaptive Dynamics analyses the thousands of inputs and variables which determine ride and handling characteristics. By also monitoring wheel position 500 times every second, the system is able to achieve the famous Jaguar duality between comfort and sporting appeal. Should the driver wish to alter these characteristics, there is the option of Dynamic Mode, which increases body control, sharpens throttle response and reduces gearshift times.

The two supercharged variants of the XK also benefit from Jaguar's Active Differential Control technology. This uses a multiplate clutch to vector torque to the driven wheel with the most grip. Allied to the ABS and stability control, this allows for the ultimate in traction and precision both mid-corner and at its exit. Non-supercharged models use a mechanical differential, which delivers outstanding levels of grip and stability under power.

All models benefit from the Dynamic Stability Control system which offers four modes: normal, Winter, TracDSC and DSC Off, allowing the enthusiastic driver to choose the level of intervention dependent on road conditions.

The XKR-S model enhances both these electronic systems and the inherent stiffness of the lightweight aluminium architecture to create the most dynamic and exciting Jaguar yet.

Uprated suspension
The double wishbone front suspension has been comprehensively revised with a new fully-machined steering knuckle. This significantly increases camber and castor stiffness by 0.13 degrees per kilonewton to transform the accuracy and weighting of the steering for greater levels of connection, feedback and precision. Rear suspension geometry has been revised with rear wheel steer optimised for maximum agility while spring rates have been increased at both ends of the car by 28 percent.

The Active Differential has been programmed to reduce steering sensitivity at the very high speeds of which the car is capable, increasing stability and driver control. Bespoke software for Jaguar's Adaptive Damping has been written for the XKR-S, ensuring both total body control and maximum traction and grip. Changes to the TracDSC mode alters intervention levels to allow the experienced driver to explore the outer edges of the performance envelope, rewarded by the motorsport inspired soundtrack from the exhaust, which features an active pneumatic valve.

The suspension changes and Performance exhaust system are available as part of the Dynamic Pack option for the Jaguar XKR model.

XK Interior
The dual nature of the XK is apparent from the moment the driver enters the cabin. Luxurious and cocooning, the sporting potential is apparent from the moment the Start button pulses red. Pressing it fires the engine into life with a deep, musical reverberation and the Jaguar DriveSelector rises from the centre console as a point of first contact to begin the process of bonding man with machine.

In the latest XK, the cabin has been refreshed with a host of new trim materials including ebony soft-feel paint for the switches, gloss black finish to the centre console and phosphor blue halo illumination and ambient lighting. New veneers, colour combinations and headlining options allow owners to create a cabin ambience precisely matching their requirements.

A new leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel has also been added, providing a tactile interface between car and driver, complemented on the XKR-S by 'Jaguar' embossed stainless steel pedals, which are optional on other models.

New performance interiors
Standard on the XKR-S and optional on the XKR and XK Portfolio models are the new Performance front seats. Featuring integrated head restraints and increased lateral and squab support, the new seats hold driver and passenger securely and comfortably in place. The 16-way adjustment of squab, cushion, lumbar and bolster elements is supplemented by memory and heating functions. Unique to the XKR-S is a Carbon patterned and soft-grain leather interior with contrasting micro-piping and stitching. The Jet Poltrona Frau Italian leather headlining that is standard on the XKR-S is offered as an option on other models.

The central seven-inch Touch-screen provides an intuitive interface for the extensive technology that is seamlessly incorporated into the XK, including iPod and USB connectivity and satellite navigation with DVD mapping. The central screen also projects the image from the new reverse parking camera.

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Volvo Universe Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Volvo Universe Concept, 2011

At the 2011 Shanghai Auto Show, Volvo Car Corporation visualises a masterpiece of Scandinavian Design for car buyers with exquisite tastes.
The Volvo Universe Concept is a large, luxurious sedan with a new human-centric design language that honours the beautiful lines of classic Volvo models.

Volvo Car Corporation's long-term strategy is to be a successful, truly global company with products designed around our customers' needs and lifestyle.
Scandinavian Design is about understanding and caring about people. Volvo Car Corporation aims to be the brand that best interprets what buyers of modern luxury cars want.

The Volvo Universe Concept has been designed to spark a subconscious desire and a feeling of eternal beauty.
It moves towards the future with its coupe-like roofline and contemporary, solid rear, but it also echoes Volvo's proud heritage by borrowing design cues from classic models of the past.

User-focused and pure
The interior of the Volvo Universe Concept is a comfortable, cultivated environment that is also user-focused and refreshingly uncomplicated. It is driver-orientated in the front and comfortably relaxed in the rear.

The in-command driver environment has intuitive controls and a touch-screen that approaches the hand when the driver reaches towards it - with everything operated from a seat that is inspired by ultra-comfortable chairs.
Passengers in the rear seat are embraced by pure comfort. The interior moulds into the rear seat and becomes part of the seating environment.

The dynamic feel and the dark colour scheme of the front seats fades seamlessly towards the rear until it fully transforms into a light rear seat haven of calmness. Volvo Universe Concept is full of classic forms, materials and textures, used with a twist to create a special contemporary luxury experience.

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Ford Focus Zetec S, 2012

 

 

• Ford Focus Zetec S, 2012

Ford introduces the sporty Zetec S to its acclaimed all-new Focus line up. Developed specifically for UK customers, Ford Focus Zetec S combines sporty styling with the debut of the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost petrol engine.

Based on the existing Zetec model, it adds a full sports styling kit including unique front and rear spoilers with lower sill extensions and 17in alloy wheels together with sports suspension featuring stiffened springs and dampers, aluminium-style sports pedals, rear LED tail lamps and Ford Power starter button.

Anthony Ireson, Ford Britain marketing director, said: "Zetec S models have always been popular with UK customers and so we are delighted to welcome our new Focus Zetec S to the range. With sporty exterior body styling and impressive performance and economy, this latest addition is set to be another showroom hit."

The Ford Focus Zetec S is available now in five-door bodystyle with estate to follow in February 2012, and is offered with a choice of four engines including the 1.6-litre 180PS EcoBoost turbo-charged petrol engine which has a top speed of 138mph, reaches 0-62mph in just 7.9sec and emits only 139g/km CO2. Any Focus Zetec S chosen with this engine or the 1.6-litre 115PS TDCi will carry the ECOnetic Technology badge, as they benefit from auto start-stop, Ford ECO mode, gear shift indicator, active grille shutter and smart regenerative charging.

The 1.6-litre 125PS Ti-VCT petrol and the 2.0-litre 163PS TDCi are also available and can be specified with either manual or PowerShift automatic transmission.

At £18,745 on the road the Ford Focus Zetec S is priced just £1,250 above the equivalent Zetec derivative, which represents outstanding value, as if purchased separately, the additional features would add over £1,700. The Zetec S and Titanium are identically priced so customers can choose either sport or luxury at the same price point.

Options include the technology-laden Driver Assistance Pack which has received several awards, cruise control with Active Speed Limiter and a Zetec S interior pack featuring Inferno Red partial leather, heated front seats, power driver seat, power rear windows and global closing for £800.00.

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Hummer H3R Off Road Concept, 2007

•  Hummer H3R Off Road Concept, 2007

The efforts of the Team HUMMER racing team, led by Rod Hall, the HUMMER H3 has quickly proved to be a formidable off-road competitor. It runs - and wins - in stock-class off-road races, where racers must rely on production chassis and powertrains. The H3R pays homage to the racing SUV while pushing the envelope on what could be considered "stock" - supposing the factory decided to drop in the 505-horsepower, 7.0L V-8 from the Corvette Z06. In addition to the high-powered engine, the H3R also sports a number of racing-inspired exterior modifications and an interior that blends racing functionality with boulevard comfort and convenience. No, a production H3 equipped with an LS7 engine isn't in the cards, but for 2008, HUMMER offers the H3 Alpha, which is powered by a new, 300-hp 5.3L all-aluminum V-8.

The highlights

•     * H3R concept
•     * LS7 7.0L V-8 with 505 horsepower and Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled four-speed transmission
•     * Custom valve covers and ignition coil covers
•     * New, forward-tilting hood with Lexan see-through insert
•     * Power-operated hood hinges
•     * Custom air induction system with dual air boxes
•     * Racing-inspired paint scheme with custom badging
•     * Off-road lighting package with unique light bar
•     * Custom rear dual exhaust system with four outlets
•     * Wheel flares with quick-remove fasteners
•     * HID headlamps from Starr Lighting
•     * Clear front corner lamp lenses
•     * Front bull bar
•     * Body-color "Jerry" can mounted on the spare tire carrier
•     * Twenty-inch wheels
•     * Mickey Thompson Bear Claw 35-inch off-road tires
•     * Rotora high-performance brake package
•     * Fixed quarter window inserts
•     * Eaton front locking differential
•     * Enhanced cooling system with larger radiator
•     * Modified suspension with Tenneco/Rancho four-inch lift package and Rancho reservoir shocks
•     * Re-trimmed interior with brushed metal accents and trim
•     * Front racing seats with five-point safety harnesses and weather-resistant seat material
•     * Simpson window safety net
•     * Washable rubber floor covering replaces carpeting
•     * Navigation radio system
•     * Off-road integrated display gauge package with compass, inclinometer, altimeter and timer
•     * Auxiliary performance gauges
•     * Auxiliary 20-gallon fuel tank
•     * Second-row seats deleted
•     * Cargo-area spare tire mount

GM Accessories (production and concept)

    * Rocker protectors
    * Underbody shield
    * Side-window weather deflector
    * Roadside assistance package
    * First-aid kit
    * Hitch receiver cover
    * Body-color grille

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Cadillac XTS, 2013

 

 

 

•  Cadillac XTS, 2013

Cadillac unveiled the 2013 XTS, the newest addition to the Cadillac luxury sedan lineup. It arrives in showrooms in U.S. and Canadian showrooms in the spring of 2012 as the most technologically advanced production car in the brand's history.

Larger than the CTS, the new Cadillac XTS delivers the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are Cadillac signatures, but with entirely new and technically advanced methods tuned for a new generation of luxury customers. It also marks the debut of CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and media control.

In addition to the CUE interface and connectivity, many other advanced technologies are integral to the new XTS. It will be the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control - the world's fastest-reacting suspension. Advanced technologies that enhance vision and safety surround the driver are available as well.

Positioned directly above the centerpiece CTS family in Cadillac's revamped lineup, the new XTS features a 3.6L direct injection engine and advanced all-wheel drive system, marking a shift to more-efficient performance in a spacious luxury sedan.

Cadillac CUE is the highly customizable user interface that exemplifies XTS' blend of advanced technology and artistic design. The heart of CUE, which stands for Cadillac User Experience, is the standard eight-inch (203 mm) screen in the "center stack," the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls. CUE features several industry firsts, including capacitive-touch control with proximity sensing, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.

Exclusively on the Cadillac XTS is the 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable cluster. It features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS' technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car's design, capabilities and performance

Highlights:
Advanced Haldex all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
Magnetic Ride Control, rear air suspension, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo brakes - all standard
Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
Direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
    Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
    Folding rear-seat headrests that enhance rear visibility
    Safety Alert Seat that vibrates to alert the driver
    Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
    Short- and long-range radar systems that support:
    Adaptive Cruise Control
    Front and Rear Automatic Brakes
    Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The XTS is also the most-spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area, where it has 40 inches (1,016 mm) of rear legroom. That's about four more inches than the BMW 5-Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class and about two more inches than the Audi A6 - and comparable to larger sedans.

The Cadillac XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding both midsize and full-size competitors - more than Audi A6 and A8 L, BMW 5 and 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz E- and S-Class. For XTS customers, the cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.

Technology reinforces multidimensional design philosophy
Cadillac XTS' hardware and spatial dimensions are the foundational layers that support a new level of surface detail. Multidimensional exterior and interior elements, including the grille, headlamps and new use of accent lighting, coalesce to give the XTS a presence and attention to detail unlike any Cadillac that has come before it.

CUE, for example, represents the pinnacle of technology, but it is being showcased using a subtle and sophisticated interior appearance that blends with other features to create a soothing and inviting feel. It offers more capability and driver-selectable choices than ever before from Cadillac, but the center stack has only seven buttons - three of them for the radio. That's less than half the controls found on the center stack of the typical car.

The Cadillac XTS' surface details also convey a more-nuanced design philosophy, with elements that support the long, sleek proportion that is a welcome return to Cadillac. They bring forward more beauty and elegance with refined, graceful forms and surfaces working harmoniously with established Cadillac linear forms. It is a car that conveys the next step in Cadillac form and surface vocabulary.

The Cadillac XTS Platinum is the fullest expression of Cadillac's multidimensional philosophy, with features that include a chrome/satin-chrome grille finish, polished 20-inch aluminum wheels with chrome inserts, a fully wrapped leather interior with Alcantara headliner and more.

Advanced safety features based on 'control and alert' strategy
The Cadillac XTS' technology fundamentally supports a suite of advanced safety features, based on a "control and alert" strategy that extends the vision around the vehicle. It helps drivers identify potential crash situations and even intervenes when a crash threat appears more imminent, employing layers of visual, audible and tactile (vibration) alerts, depending on the alert feature.

The alerts are designed to identify obstacles with sufficient warning to give the driver time to react and make changes - including the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver's seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern. The intervening features, including Automatic Collision Preparation, take over if the threat appears more immediate or the driver does not react to previous alerts.

Two levels of control-and-alert protection are offered in the Cadillac XTS' Enhanced Safety Strategy (ESS) packages.

ESS I:
    Lane Departure Warning
    Forward Collision Alert
    Safety Alert Seat
    Side Blind Zone Alert
    Rear Cross Traffic Alert
    Reflected LED display.

ESS II includes all ESS I content plus:
    Head-up display (in color)
    Front and Rear Automatic Brake
    Adaptive Cruise Control
    Automatic Collision Preparation

Cadillac XTS also features OnStar as standard. OnStar service also includes myCadillac and OnStar myLink mobile apps, whichoffer vehicle information and OnStar services via the customer's smartphone.

AWD and Magnetic Ride Control support new driving experience
A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies - all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection and serves as the foundation for the advanced-chassis system.

A smart Haldex all-wheel-drive system - with an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels - complements an advanced HiPer Strut front suspension and standard Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the Cadillac XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling traits. A linked H-arm design with "air springs" comprises the rear suspension.

HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride-and-handling characteristics in four significant ways:

    Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
    Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
    Reduces torque steer
    Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.

Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control - "reading" the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and Brembo four-wheel disc brakes with four-channel antilock brakes - all features that add important layers of control to the driving experience. Like Magnetic Ride Control, Cadillac XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac's V-Series of high performance models.

Horsepower for the Cadillac XTS comes from an advanced 3.6L V-6 that's known by its "LFX" engine code. It is rated at an estimated 300 horsepower (224 kW). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.

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