Ford Territory, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Ford Territory, 2012

Following an extensive development programme the covers have finally come off the highly anticipated new-model Ford Territory. The Australian-designed-and-developed SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle) has undergone an extensive visual update inside and out. The new Territory wears a stylish suit cut from Ford's kinetic design language and its bold new look makes it instantly recognisable as a member of Ford's comprehensive model family.

Redesigning the multi-award-winning Ford Territory meant building on its already clean and attractive looks, the result of the first-generation Territory's original design goal: to create a vehicle that embodied the strength and power of a traditional SUV while having the prestige, agility and nimbleness of a sporting sedan. The new Ford Territory has taken this to another level.

Underpinning new Ford Territory's design was its dual personality: a sophisticated and sporty urban wagon for weekdays and a family getaway vehicle on weekends. Successfully presenting these two functional roles in an exciting visual form was the responsibility of the Ford Australia design team, headed by Chris Svensson, Design Director for Ford Asia Pacific and Africa.

Externally, significant changes to Territory's styling have resulted in a stunning new look. At the front, the vehicle uses an all-new tri-plane front-end architecture. The new trapezoid-shaped main grille is one of the new Ford Territory's most noticeable updates. This larger, lower grille in a unique three-bar design connects with the slim-line treatment given to the upper grille opening, a feature which sees the famous Ford roundel now surrounded by its own elegant winged structure.

New slim-line headlights with projector beam technology are another stand-out feature of the new Ford Territory's frontal styling. The high-series Titanium variant takes this a step further with the introduction of LED (Light-Emitting Diode) position lamps integrated into its redesigned front bumper. At the bottom of Territory's new face is a U-formed lower chin skid plate.

Combining these stunning elements has produced an impressive new look.
Moving rearwards, the new Territory sports a sculpted new bonnet and subtle flutes for the front guards. Bold wheel lips emphasise its athletic stance.

A new C-pillar design smooths the transition from front to rear. Resurfaced door cladding and a lower rocker moulding combine to give Ford Territory a lower, athletic stance.

At the rear, Svensson's highly skilled team has made a number of enhancements. New Territory sports sleek horizontal tail lights that wrap around the rear of the vehicle that create a seamless visual link to the rear of the vehicle. Connecting them is a new rear lift-gate appliqué. Finishing the new rear styling is a redesigned bumper and new lower-level valence panel.

Rounding out new Ford Territory's exterior is a new catalogue of locally designed wheels, which will be available in diameters of 17 and 18 inches in model-specific designs.

On the inside, the popular SUV maintains its famed ability for almost endless adaptation to Australian lifestyles. Its car-like cabin is sporty and sophisticated and continues its "dual personality" theme by delivering stunning form and excellent function.

The new Territory is fitted with an all-new Instrument Panel (IP) featuring - for the first time - an eight-inch touch screen and new functional storage solutions. Ford Territory drivers will find the technologically advanced touch screen both easy to reach and use and its central location makes it simple for both front occupants to operate.

A new four-spoke steering wheel puts drivers in control of the new Territory's impressive handling capabilities and gives finger-tip control to audio and cruise control functions.

Ford Territory's new Interior Command Centre (ICC) provides front-seat occupants with familiar and simple-to-use controls for functions such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning. At the bottom of this new ICC is an all-new storage area. This stylish and functional feature uses a smooth-action tambour door which adds to the interior's equally smooth style. It is here the new IP connects with Territory's stylish and functional centre console. Versatile cup holders, deep console bin storage and USB / iPod connectivity exemplify Ford Territory's famed user-friendliness.

Carefully selected materials and colours bring the new Territory's exterior design inside. For example, high-gloss spears adorn the centre console in the Territory Titanium and connect the front of the interior with the middle seat row. Spears of a similar design feature on the new IP.

The EXTERIOR DESIGN
For some, designing a vehicle with two personalities would be considered a tough challenge. Not for Todd Willing, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa's Melbourne-based chief designer responsible for the new Territory's stunning look.

Front
The front end of the new Ford Territory uses a modern tri-plane design. This kinetic facial layout achieves its dynamic look by combining several important elements.

Precision-design projector headlights give the new Territory an immediate attitude that is modern and polished. These are connected visually by a slim-line upper air intake grille that wears a unique wing-formed shape formed from a single bar. This sharp design element surrounds the centrally mounted Blue Oval badge. It is an entirely new design feature from the Ford Australia design team.

One of new Territory's most dominating frontal features is its new centrally located main grille opening. This clipped trapezoidal air intake is an important part of Territory's kinetic styling and features an eye-catching triple open-bar design. These bars are given additional attention on the range-leading Titanium version by wearing a chrome finish for a high-jewel effect.
The clipped trapezoid-shaped air intake is more than just a showpiece; its eye-catching shape is also the result of the Ford Territory's cooling needs.

Todd Willing: "The overall main grille design is tied into Territory's engine cooling airflow requirements so getting the final shape absolutely correct had as much to do with engineering as it did aesthetics."

Moving downwards, new Ford Territory's face is completed by an integrated U-form lower chin skid plate. This subtle design feature emphasises Territory's versatility as an outdoor-lifestyle vehicle. It is also a strong yet smooth design element that finishes the vehicle's new frontal style.

Another first for new Ford Territory is the fitment of high-tech LED (Light-Emitting Diode) position lamps. These are fitted to the range-leading Territory Titanium and are usually found on more expensive European SUVs. They are located at the outer edges of the lower trapezoid grille and they operate as position lamps. They also constitute a signature design feature for Ford Territory Titanium. Round fog lights are fitted to the mid-range TS model.

Bonnet
Moving up to the bonnet, Willing and his team have added more surface sculpting.

Side profile
The new Territory wears fender features, also known as guard flutes, that add to its sense of strength. This design detail also helps differentiate between each of the models in the series: TX, TS and Titanium. The chrome finish fitted to the Titanium hints at its premium status.

Rear
To unite the new Territory's front and rear designs Willing's team has made the C-pillar sit flush with the body and there is a subtle kink to the top edge of the C-pillar side window to give a more three-dimensional look.

Immediately apparent at the rear of the new Territory is the new design of its tail lights. These shoulder-set lights wrap around into Ford Territory's rear three-quarter panels and connect the side- and rear-end treatments. Their design is more car-like and their jewel-like effect transforms the look of the new Territory at the rear, especially at a three-quarter angle.

A number of subtle yet highly effective enhancements underpin the new Territory's overall modern rear styling.

The range-leading Titanium model features twin chrome C-shaped accents embedded into the lower valence panel. This subtle graphic touch again differentiates the range-leading version and helps emphasise new Territory's tapered rear design.

The new Territory retains the clever multi-piece tailgate with integrated release handle and easy-access flip-glass.

INTERIOR DESIGN
The Ford Australia design team responsible for the new Territory's interior has worked to build on the model's famed functionality and attractive cabin. New Ford Territory's five- or seven-seat flexibility, user-friendly technology and driver-oriented cockpit provide the ideal environment for today's modern family.

Melbourne-based Scott Ferrier, Ford Asia Pacific and Africa's Design Manager for passenger car interiors, said it was vital to maintain familiarity when developing new Territory's interior.

Instrument Panel (IP), Steering Wheel and All-new 8-inch Touch Screen
The new Ford Territory's fundamental interior architecture remains unchanged and starts with its seven-seat "theatre-style" seating layout (standard fitment on Titanium and TS, optional at extra cost on TX).

Each of the three variants - TX, TS and Titanium - receives unique cabin treatments taken from new Territory's kinetic design DNA.

Headlining the list of enhancements are the new instrument panel (IP), centre console, and four-spoke steering wheel, all of which share their design origins from the current-model FG Falcon sedan. The design of their push-button controls and elegant layout add to the interior's up-to-date feel.

Behind the new four-spoke steering wheel, the new instrument panel's easy-to-read gauge cluster with centrally mounted LED screen is elegant and effective. New, round air vents are located at each end of the new instrument panel. These not only enhance the look of the cabin but also provide efficient cooling and heating.

The new Territory's Interior Command Centre (ICC) - which is located at the centre of the instrument panel - is also familiar from the FG Falcon but it arrives in the new Ford Territory with a special addition. In an Australian Ford-first, the new Territory will be available with Ford's advanced eight-inch colour touch screen - a technology milestone for an Australian-built Ford vehicle. This stylish and simple-to-use feature will be fitted to the Territory TS and Titanium models as standard equipment. The Ford Territory TX will be fitted with a 5.8-inch monochromatic display screen.

This signature touch-screen feature is mounted at the top of the instrument panel's ICC and within easy view and reach for both the driver and front passenger. The sleek-looking unit controls functions such as Territory's audio system, telephone and climate controls.
 

At the base of the ICC and located just ahead of the transmission gear shifter is another all-new feature. A stylish tambour door conceals a deeply recessed storage bin with ample room for mobile telephones, CDs, iPods or small cameras. It also offers dedicated storage for a tissue box and has an integrated pen holder and a 12-volt accessory outlet.

The storage unit is a clever addition to Territory's famed functionality and packaging. The roller-action tambour door has been carefully developed to provide a smooth and damped action reminiscent of those found in more expensive European cars. It has also been sculpted as part of the new Ford Territory's centre console, the comfortable design of which will also be familiar to Ford drivers.

The centre console now comes with recessed cup holders for better stowage and their rubber surrounds offer increased support. They are also located well clear of the handbrake and transmission shifter.

Another key aspect of the new Territory's interior design is the structural wrap-around for the centre console and the satin spears. These emphasise strength and are one of the many kinetic design touches that match Territory's interior with its exterior.

COLOUR AND MATERIALS DESIGN
An essential element of new Ford Territory's interior design brief was the use of more luxurious fabrics on all model variants, giving the occupant space a high level of quality, sophistication and comfort.

Emily Lai, Ford Australia's Design Manager for Colours and Materials, said the new Territory's architectural-type interior finishes of satin and bright chrome were the result of customer feedback.

The stylish cabin design carries from the front-seat area to the middle- and third-row passengers, areas often overlooked by designers. There is no compromise with the look and feel of the materials from the front of the cabin to the rear.

The new Territory will be available in a variety of upholstery colours and finishes. For example, the no-cost optional light-coloured leather seats in the new range-leading Titanium model, Cashmere, provides a tonal environment that reflects light with the use of high-gloss and satin-metallic finishes. It adds a feeling of heightened visual comfort traditionally found in luxury cars and SUVs. The interior of the Titanium model is partly upholstered in high-grade leather and will also be available in a Shadow (black) environment. The mid-level TS model also wears a Shadow environment and will feature a colour keyed cloth-suede combination seat trim and satin-metallic finishes. The TX  available in a Shadow environment offering a colour-harmonised cloth seat trim and technical satin finish accents.

The new Territory's instrument panel wears the same high-quality grain finish that was developed specifically for the current-model FG Falcon. Called "Natural", it is designed to vary subtly in size, scale and depth throughout the IP. Natural gives a softer, more leather-like appearance.

Storage: Clever and Practical Packaging
New Ford Territory builds on its famed interior functionality. Customers  enjoy the clever lockable drawer located under the driver's seat and the handbag / umbrella recesses next to both the driver and front passenger seats. In addition to the revised centre console-mounted cup holders there are adjustable door-mounted versions for cups and bottles of varying size. Each rear door has an integrated stowage area as do the sides of the third-row passenger compartment, which are fitted with armrest bins and cup holders. The new Territory also comes fitted with map pockets and seat pockets along with a flat folding floor for the rear compartment.

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Fiat Punto, 2012

 

 

 

 

•  Fiat Punto, 2012

The new 2012 Fiat Punto builds on the Italian company's heritage of producing mould-breaking, class leading small cars. Aimed at the most competitive and dynamic sector of the car market, the 2012 Punto cements its hard-won reputation as a stylish, technologically advanced supermini.

Available with either three or five doors, the new Punto features a wider range of planet pleasing engines, more equipment, and more choice of specification than ever before. This enables it to meet buyers' ever more demanding requirements for smaller, more environmentally friendly cars that are affordable to run, easy to live with, yet still chic, safe, comfortable and fun to drive.

The simplification of the name to simply Punto matches the rationalisation of the look, with a new exterior design, a new range of exterior colours, new alloy wheel designs, new colours and materials inside, and a new engine with the ground-breaking TwinAir joining the line-up.

The importance of the new Fiat Punto shouldn't be underestimated. The supermini segment accounts for approximately a quarter of all the new cars sold with around 30 models from Europe, Japan and Korea all vying for a share of the market. Since its launch in 1993 the Punto has been a leader with more than 8.5m vehicles sold throughout Europe. The new 2012 Punto is tasked with developing this while appealing to a younger customer profile.

The five trim levels, Pop, Easy, Lounge and the new GBT and TwinAir, reflect this. The Pop version has been designed to appeal to price sensitive customers who don't want to forego style just because they're buying a very affordable car. The interior boasts stylish denim inserts on the seats, all models get Daytime Running Lights and the Blue&Me TomTom LIVE infotainment system can be specified.

The Easy version will be the big seller of the 2012 Fiat Punto range and features a combination of style and technology. Additionally, this gets body-coloured door handles and mirrors, remote control door locking, a rear bench that splits 60/40, heated mirrors, plus manual air-conditioning.

The range-topping Lounge gets new trim for the interior and features a new finish to the dash. Other luxury touches include sculpted sports seats, a front arm rest, climate control, cruise control, white ambient light on the dash and front fog lights.

The GBT model, built to celebrate Fiat's support for British Cycling, is based on the Easy version, with sportier wheels, lowered sports suspension, darkened privacy glass, a body coloured rear spoiler and side skirts. The TwinAir model is also based on the Easy with 15-inch multi-spoke diamond finish wheels, glossy black mirror covers and door pillars, unique seats, and darkened privacy glass.

Compared to the Fiat Punto Evo range that the new model replaces, the engine line up has been rationalised too. It now includes the award-winning TwinAir Turbo engine which offers the performance of a four-cylinder combined with the economy of a two-cylinder and the sound-track of something that thrives on being driven.

Fiat's clever MultiAir technology also features in a pair of 1.4-litre engines, one with a turbo, one without. The MultiAir philosophy controls combustion directly through the intake valves rather than by the throttle to give better efficiency and more power than other similarly sized units. The petrol line-up is completed by conventional 1.2 and 1.4-litre units which use the latest variable valve timing to ensure they're as economical as they are fun to drive.

Finally there are a pair of class-leading MultiJet 2 diesels. These put out 75 and 85hp with the latter engine benefiting from more new technology to emit just 90g/km of carbon dioxide.

All this is housed in a re-working of the Punto's now familiar shape that makes it even more handsome and brings it right up to date.

DYNAMIC AND DISTINGUISHED
The new 2012 Fiat Punto maintains the model's instantly recognisable and dynamic shape but it's been made even more elegant and characterful thanks to a host of detail changes, inside and out.

Outside
The most noticeable of these modifications is a new front bumper. To ensure the exterior look of the car reflects the cutting edge technology inside, it blends the strong points of the 2005 Grande Punto's design with those of the 2009 Punto Evo. Whether in three or five door, the new bumper gives the front an elegant look, aided by being painted the same colour as the rest of the car. The two air intakes are split by the number plate but enclosed in a single trapezium-shaped perimeter. The direction indicators remain on either side of the number plate with headlights above, the round fog lights with cornering function are located within the lower air intake.

All models have a black grille with a hexagonal mesh pattern. This makes the grille stand out from the rest of the car giving the new Fiat Punto's appearance a more technical and sporty feel. The body coloured front bumper also helps the Fiat badge stand out more prominently than before.

At the rear the Fiat badge now doubles as the door lock: push it and the tailgate opens. The Punto logo sits beneath it in the centre and has a red dot in the same colour as the Fiat badge. As at the front, the rear bumper has been redesigned to be the same colour as the rest of the car. Beneath it the rear fog and reversing lights have been elongated and integrated into the surrounding surface.

New-look wheels and colours complete the makeover. The 15-inch alloys have a new design and there are three new metallic bodywork colours. The TwinAir name denotes a new trim level which has a dedicated colour, Unplugged Green, with a glossy black roof available as an option.

Inside
To go with the smart new appearance outside, brand new fabrics on the seats and dashboard have been used inside to give the 2012 Fiat Punto a fresher, more youthful look. Fabric with electro-welded patches to facilitate ventilation in hot weather and even a Sportex material with a hexagonal pattern similar to the front grille are available. There are also new soft touch coverings available on the dashboard.

Trims
The entry level Pop model has been designed to be an accessible, simple and functional way into Punto ownership. Even so, it's still very well equipped, coming with stylish Spicy Grey interiors complete with fabric seats that have red stitching on them, height and reach-adjustable steering wheel, height-adjustable driver's seat, trip computer, remote central locking, electric front windows, driver, passenger and window airbags, radio, CD and MP3 player, rear head restraints and ABS anti-lock braking.

The mid-range Easy and GBT trim levels offer an exceptional price to equipment ratio. Designed to embody a combination of style and technology, their dashboard has black Diamond inserts and the seats feature embellishments in one of three colours which contrast with the charcoal interior elsewhere. On top of the equipment in the Pop the Easy has as standard manual air-conditioning, driver knee airbag, leather covered steering wheel and gear lever knob, a rear bench that splits 60/40, darkened headlights, body-coloured electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, body-coloured door handles and 15-inch Comfortline alloy wheels.

The GBT version has the same specification as the Easy, but with 15-inch Sportline alloy wheels, darkened privacy glass, sports suspension and body coloured rear spoiler and side skirts.

Top of the range is represented by the elegant and sporty Lounge model. This has 15-inch Sportline alloy wheels, front fog lights with cornering function, the Skydome electric sun roof, chrome-plated exhaust pipe, sculpted Castiglio fabric seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, front arm rest, ESP, electric rear windows on the five door, ambient lighting inside and Blue&Me with Bluetooth plus USB and Aux inputs.

To emphasise the unique, innovative and cheeky personality of the TwinAir model it gets its own trim. Exterior details such as the door mirrors and pillars are gloss black while the 15-inch alloy wheels also get a glossy diamond finish. The darkened burnished headlights and a special TwinAir logo complete its identification.

In addition to its unique Unplugged Green paint, most of the other 12 shades of the Punto range are also available with a gloss black roof in TwinAir spec. Inside, the seat upholstery is grey Sportex fabric complete with the TwinAir logo embossed on the front headrests while the soft touch fascia has the black Diamond finish. In addition to the same equipment as the Easy, it also features darkened privacy glass and front fog lights with a cornering function.

With the new model, Fiat Punto owners will be able personalise like never before. To create a car that's truly made to measure there are a total of 13 body colours, five trim levels, seven types of interior upholstery, 11 types of stylish alloy wheel and a host of other accessories. The result is an infinite number of combinations for owners to give their Punto a unique touch.

NEW ENGINES IMPROVE EFFICIENCY
To demonstrate its technical excellence, at the heart of the 2012 Punto is a revamped range of five petrol and two diesel engines. Each offers a varying degree of driveability and class-leading efficiency to ensure the new Fiat Punto is capable of satisfying all manner of demanding drivers. All engine options feature Fiat's Start&Stop (optional on Easy 1.2) combined with a Gear Shift Indicator which suggests the best gear to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 15 per cent on an urban route.

TwinAir Turbo
For the first time, the Punto comes with Fiat Powertrain's ground-breaking TwinAir Turbo engine. Winner of the 2011 International Engine of the Year, and Best Green Engine 2011, this is a two-cylinder that drives like a four cylinder. It works with a six-speed gearbox to pair two distinct characters in one compact, low weight package to appeal to multiple driving styles.

In Normal mode, full engine performance is on tap to ensure lively and spirited progress courtesy of a zesty peak power of 85hp at 5500 rpm and maximum torque of 145Nm at 2000rpm. Pushing the Eco button on the dashboard reduces torque to 110Nm at 2500rpm. This makes the engine even better at coping with town driving conditions, reduces fuel consumption and emissions, and helps the engine achieve its amazing 98g/km of CO2.

Engineers settled on the capacity of this two-cylinder engine after numerous thermodynamic calculations specified the optimum surface-to-volume ratio of the combustion chamber to yield maximum efficiency. A small turbocharger was chosen to ensure maximum torque from low engine speeds. Combined with dedicated valve management, this minimises engine response times and keeps power levels high to amplify driver pleasure. The result is performance that's approximately 25 per cent better than the 1.2-litre 8-valve engine.

Thanks to Fiat's MultiAir technology, engine combustion is controlled directly through the intake valves. This facilitates high combustion stability even at very low engine loads which uses the injected fuel in the most efficient way to reduce emissions.

But the TwinAir isn't just notable for the driving pleasure and low fuel consumption it offers. It's also remarkably refined. Engineers worked hard to maintain the distinctive sound of the two-cylinder while reducing vibrations courtesy of a balancing countershaft and dual-mass flywheel.

MultiJet 2 Turbo diesel
Fiat has a proud history of world firsts in diesel engine development. There was the first direct injection diesel engine in a production saloon car in the 1980s, and in the 1990s it invented Common Rail. Then in 2003 Fiat came up with MultiJet. The 2012 Punto features an evolution of the MultiJet 2 engine, which is available in this latest Fiat Punto with two power outputs.

The new 85hp 1.3-litre 16-valve version sees the MultiJet 2 family of engines take another step forward with the introduction of two new technologies. An Intelligent Alternator optimises the recharging strategy of the battery when the engine is cut by the Start&Stop system. Intelligent Flow employs a variable displacement oil pump and optimisation of the cooling circuit to improve efficiency. The results are a punchy 200Nm of torque at 1500rpm combined with CO2 emissions of just 90g/km which makes the Punto one of the cleanest cars in its class. It's also one of the most economical, with a Combined Cycle figure of 80.7 mpg.

As with all second-generation MultiJet engines, both this unit and the 75hp version employ a new common rail injection system with a balanced solenoid servo valve. This controls the quantity of diesel injected into the cylinder with enormous precision to allow a quicker and more flexible injection sequence than previously.

The eight injections per cycle also feature Fiat's ground-breaking Injection Rate Shaping (IRS) technology. This consists of two consecutive injections with zero hydraulic dwell in between. It means combustion is more gradual and at higher loads is smoother leading to improvements in consumption, emissions and noise. In real terms, consumption and CO2 emissions of these Euro 5 compatible engines are believed to be improved by around three per cent, and nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced by 20 per cent.

Further gains in efficiency are made thanks to low viscosity transmission fluid and second generation turbochargers. The fixed geometry turbo in the 75hp version and the variable vane geometry of the 85hp version ensure the best possible turbo function at any engine speed. On top of that, torque at low revs is improved by 25 per cent compared to the previous engine. The 1.3-litre MultiJet 2 engines come with a five-speed manual gearbox.

MultiAir petrol
Just as Fiat has revolutionised the world of diesel engines, so it has also been instrumental in technological advances in petrol power, courtesy of its MultiAir range. Compared with a traditional petrol engine, a MultiAir unit has increased power and torque along with lower fuel consumption and emissions. The 2012 Fiat Punto range features two different power outputs of MultiAir engine: 105hp and 135hp.

MultiAir takes dynamic control of drawing air into the engine, cylinder by cylinder and stroke by stroke without using the throttle. At its heart is a new electro-hydraulic valve management system that uses a high pressure oil chamber between the camshaft and the intake valve, managed by a solenoid valve connected to the engine's ECU. This enables increased flexibility in valve lift schedules and allows them to vary, depending on how much air the engine requires.

As a consequence, full valve lift is only used when full engine power is required. At start-up, late intake valve opening gives a higher air speed intake to optimise the petrol/air mix and its combustion. At partial engine load, early intake valve closing optimises volume efficiency and reduces pumping losses. Backflow into the maniflow is avoided and air mass trapped in the cylinder optimised. Combustion can be further enhanced by multiple valve opening or multi-lift at low engine speeds or from idle.

The result of this versatile technology isn't just a 10 per cent reduction in consumption and emissions. It also boosts power by 10 per cent and torque by 15 per cent compared to regular engines. And since air intake is adjusted precisely according to road conditions and driving style, the MultiAir engines are more relaxing to drive in heavy traffic and more fun, with improved dynamic responses on the open road.

The 135hp 1.4-litre MultiAir engine has a turbocharger that gives the 2012 Fiat Punto the performance of a sports car. The turbo gives optimal torque delivery throughout the rev range and sees it hitting 62mph from standstill in just 8.5 seconds. But despite this and a top speed of 124mph it still returns 50.4mpg on the Combined Cycle and 129g/km of CO2 emissions.

FIRE
The 2012 Fiat Punto range starts with the 1.2-litre Fire EVO II engine. This 1.2-litre eight-valve has continuously variable valve timing to optimise the opening and closing of the valves. This ensures maximum efficiency but still means the engine feels peppy thanks to a healthy 102Nm of peak torque at 3000rpm and a maximum power output of 69hp.

The other engine in the range is the 1.4-litre eight-valve. As with every other engine in the line-up it's compliant with Euro 5 exhaust emissions legislation and has a handy 77hp and 115Nm of peak torque. Like the 1.2, this engine comes with a five-speed gearbox. It is also the only engine in the 2012 Punto range to be available with the five-speed Dualogic semi-automatic gearbox.

Air Technologies
With such a host of high efficiency, low environmental impact technologies now available on its cars, Fiat has given them an umbrella name. Included in the new Air Technologies brand are the Start&Stop and Gear Shift Indicator plus the exclusive eco:Drive software.

TECHNOLOGY IN ACTION
In its various previous guises, the Punto has been renowned for a high level of exciting and innovative technology. It became the first car in the supermini sector to feature an in-built infotainment system courtesy of Blue&Me. It was also the first car in its class to be able to analyse and give suggestions for improving driving styles in real time thanks to eco:Drive. The 2012 Fiat Punto builds on these attributes.

Blue&Me TomTom LIVE
Fiat recognises that it's vitally important for drivers to be able to concentrate on the road and not on finding directions or operating in-car entertainment systems, so the 2012 Punto can be specified with Blue&Me TomTom LIVE.

Designed for maximum user friendliness, this integrates mobile phones and media players with the car's built-in systems so drivers can use them in total safety without taking their hands off the wheel. Featuring a 4.3-inch high definition touch screen that mounts in a cradle on the dash board, this system is much more than mere satellite navigation.

Using Fiat's intuitive Blue&Me, phones and media players can be synched via Bluetooth, meaning there are no untidy wires. The devices can then be controlled through the touchscreen, with buttons on the steering wheel or using voice commands, without drivers taking their eyes off the road or their hands from the wheel.

The Blue&Me TomTom LIVE screen is mounted on the dashboard but can be removed so the driver can also use it as a portable navigation system. The navigation system features detailed maps, a routing system that chooses the best roads after analysing traffic conditions, and TomTom HD Traffic with detailed information on traffic, queues, road blocks and engineering works updated every two minutes during the journey.

Eco:Drive
Blue&Me also incorporates Fiat's revolutionary eco:Drive system. This enables users to download information about their driving to a USB stick. This can then be uploaded to their computer and by accessing Fiat's eco:Drive website, acceleration, deceleration, gear shifts and speed are analysed to give drivers a personal eco:Index of between 1 and 100. The eco:Drivers then receive tips on how to improve their performance and can become part of the eco:Ville on-line community. This has so far enabled 64,000 users to save 4300 tonnes of CO2 through improvement in their driving styles.

Start&Stop and Gear Shift Indicator
To boost economy further, all engines are equipped with Fiat's Start&Stop. This is specifically designed for city driving and switches the engine off when traffic signals or conditions require the vehicle to stop, while keeping all functions such as lights, windscreen wipers, climate control and the sound system operating. When it's time to move off again, lifting off the brake or touching the clutch triggers the engine to fire up.

The Start&Stop comes with a Gear Shift Indicator (GSI). This offers a discreet prompt to drivers to change gear at the optimum point to minimise fuel consumption. In urban driving fuel economy can be boosted by up to 15 per cent if both these technologies are employed.

Safety
As with every Fiat, the priority is to ensure the safety and well being of everyone on board. The vehicle body is made out of high strength steel and handling has been made as predictable as possible thanks to independent MacPherson strut suspension at the front and torsion beam at the rear.

Fiat's Dualdrive electric power steering gives the driver plenty of feedback without drawing too much power from the engine. Driver, passenger and window airbags are standard fit on every model, as are front and rear adjustable head restraints. But there are also plenty of features that are usually considered the preserve of larger models.

To ensure that drivers can see, adaptive cornering fog lights show the way round corners. To make sure that cars can be seen they feature Daytime Running Lights (DRL). These use less power than dipped beam headlights and are switched on automatically by the key going into the ignition. Using them doesn't illuminate the instrument panel so this maintains its visibility during daylight. As well as this, the front fog light flashes at the same time as the first indicator blink to signify a lane change manoeuvre.

The Punto is fitted with a powerful braking system that is supplemented by various electronic systems. There's ABS anti-lock braking that detects and prevents wheel locking in extreme braking or on slippery surfaces. The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) helps increase the amount of control the driver has in all conditions. By monitoring steering inputs the ESP can tell if the car is deviating from its intended path and steps in to brake individual wheels so the car returns to its correct trajectory.

The same computer controls the Hill Holder which maintains braking pressure after the driver lifts off the pedal to ensure perfect hill starts every time. The 2012 Fiat Punto can also be specified with rain sensors. Using an infrared LED installed in the front of the screen these detect the presence of rain and automatically switch the windscreen wipers on if it's sufficiently wet.

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Lexus GS 350 F Sport, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Lexus GS 350 F Sport, 2013

Lexus will reveal the all-new 2013 GS 350 F Sport package at the 2011 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. Building on the excitement of the fourth-generation GS 350 which was revealed at Pebble Beach in August 2011, the Lexus GS 350 F Sport package was designed to engage driving enthusiasts with factory engineering and the ability to take performance to an entirely new level. Unique to the F Sport package will be aggressive 19-inch wheels, F Sport-tuned Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), thicker anti-roll bars, bushing changes, and new larger front brakes with high friction pads. In addition, rear-wheel drive (RWD) models will be equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels and Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS). Inside, the all-new package also features a sporty attitude with a new 16-way power driver's sport seat, unique interior design treatment and available F Sport exclusive Cabernet Red leather interior.

Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
As with the GS 350, the GS 350 F Sport package is powered by an advanced 3.5-liter V6, with four cams, and four valves per cylinder and dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence. At 306 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful base engines in the segment, as well as the only one with both port and direct injection. It propels the car from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and at the same time, fuel economy has been improved.

Acceleration from 30 to 50 mph can take just 3.0 seconds, and improved engine sound characteristics complement the bolder, more energetic personality of the new GS. The six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission has paddle shifters and sport driving functions as standard equipment.

The transmission incorporates many features adopted from the Lexus IS F high-performance sedan — including faster shifts, and downshift throttle blips — to support four driving modes that can be operated by toggling the Lexus Drive Mode selector. In addition to the Normal mode, the driver can customize the driving experience using ECO, Sport S and Sport S+ modes.

An optional electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system is designed to enhance traction in a variety of driving conditions. The system can vary front-to-rear torque balance from 50/50 to as much as 30/70, depending on driving conditions, for exceptional control.

Chassis

To provide a more engaging driving experience, including a new aerodynamic body, a completely new platform with a wider stance and stiffer structure, a transmission with quicker shifts, distinctive engine sound and exhaust notes, and better seat support, Lexus engineers looked to the Lexus LFA supercar for inspiration.

The new platform has been designed to be more rigid. Engineers conducted extensive platform testing, ultimately increasing the number of spot welds and adding laser welds in very specific locations. The track, wider by almost two inches, works in combination with a revised suspension design to help ensure a more solid stance and superior cornering performance.

The new suspension system is designed to help guide the 2013 GS through corners with precision. In the front, upper and lower control arms are made from aluminum and employ larger bushings. The rear subframe has been completely redesigned to accommodate an all-new multi-link rear suspension, using improved suspension geometry that helps retain tire cornering force and enhances rear control. With the stiffer platform and lighter components, the shocks can use lighter-viscosity oil, so they move easily and respond to small inputs more quickly.

The use of front and rear aluminum control arms helps reduce unsprung weight and results in significant improvements in agility, roll damping, ride comfort, body control and steering precision. Overall, the suspension is lighter and stronger, allowing it to react to driver input readily, and ride quietly without harshness.

The Lexus GS 350 F Sport package will offer an optional newly developed Lexus Dynamic Handling (LDH) system with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) for those seeking more agility. This leading edge platform technology offers Lexus' first integration of DRS; Electric Power Steering; and Variable Gear Ratio Steering. Monitoring vehicle speed, steering direction and driver inputs, the system calculates the optimum angle for all four wheels. LDH helps to optimize the vehicle slip angle. Using VGRS in the front and DRS in the rear, the system can independently manage both front and rear wheel steering angles to help improve turn-in response, rear grip, vehicle control and overall agility when cornering.

The latest generation of Lexus' unique Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management system coordinates Lexus Dynamic Handling; the Anti-lock Braking System; Traction Control; Vehicle Stability Control; and Adaptive Variable Suspension. Adaptive Variable Suspension helps front and rear wheel control and provides agile, sharp and confident driving behavior with a more direct response to the driver's actions. The LDH system monitors vehicle speed and yaw rate, steering angle and speed, and lateral G to calculate the required rear wheel steering input, to a maximum DRS angle of 2.0 degrees. At most speeds below 50 mph the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions. In certain conditions at speeds over 50 mph the front and rear wheels turn in the same direction.

Further coordinating DRS with VGRS and AVS, the Lexus Dynamic Handling system will automatically customize the adaptive suspension tuning and active safety systems to suit road conditions, vehicle speed and driving style, giving drivers the confidence to fully utilize the exceptional driving performance of the GS with F Sport package.

The GS 350 RWD with F Sport package will be exclusively equipped with 19-inch staggered width wheels paired with 235/40/19 front and 265/35/19 rear tires, the widest rear tires ever on a Lexus sedan. The wider width wheels allow for a sportier look, and will also help provide added traction. All-wheel drive (AWD) models will be paired with 235/40/19 all-season tires in the front and rear.

Safety/Security Features
As with the GS 350, the GS 350 F Sport package will be standard equipped with 10 airbags, including a knee airbag for both front driver and passenger. Rear seat occupants have seat-mounted side airbags, and all four outboard occupants are equipped with side curtain airbags. Also standard are new Whiplash Injury Lessening front seats designed to help limit excessive head movement, and help decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries in certain types of rear-end collisions. Standard seatbelts with pretensioners with force limiters used for front and outboard rear seats further assist occupant protection.

Available options to help further enhance occupant safety include a Pre-Collision System, which uses the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control System to provide early warning of certain objects traveling directly ahead that might result in a front-end collision. The system also uses a Lexus-first infrared camera with new scanning technology to monitor the driver's eyes. In the event that the driver does not appear to be looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will initiate the warning at an earlier threshold. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate maneuver, the system will initiate braking intervention up to 1.2 seconds prior to impact, helping to lessen the severity of the collision. With available Lexus Dynamic Handling, PCS will help further mitigate the occurrence of a collision.

Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System that enhances driver visibility at night; Heads Up Display; a Blind Spot Monitor that helps detect vehicles in rear/side blind spots; and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). GS is the first in its segment to offer LKA with active steering torque to provide a small amount to assist in maintaining course, while the LDW feature alerts the driver if the system detects that the vehicle is beginning to drift out of the lane.

Exterior Design
The 2013 GS expresses a new generation of Lexus' design philosophy with its precisely sculpted exterior and will lead the rest of the lineup in an entirely new direction. When designers shaped the GS they visualized the flow of air around it and, like the LFA supercar, maximized aerodynamic efficiency for low coefficient of drag.

Following the inspirational design cues of the IS line-up and CT 200h, the F Sport package separates itself from the GS line-up with distinctive exterior details. To display its aggressive attitude, the Lexus GS 350 F Sport package will be outfitted with a sport front bumper and rear lower valence, rear lip spoiler, unique F Sport mesh grille inserts and F Sport badging.

The GS fuses distinctive style with engineering functionality. The signature spindle grille with its trapezoidal contours fully integrates into the aggressive front bumper allowing for efficient airflow. Air inlets located on the outer edges of the lower grille serve as cooling ducts. This distinctive Lexus design feature combined with the deep-set, high-tech headlamps and L-shaped LED daytime running lamps further express the vehicle's confident and dynamic character. The headlamps use a projector beam design, adding a strong, chiseled appearance and excellent illumination. Fins incorporated into the side of the tail lamps and the design of the trunk area all help direct air over and past the car. The rear bumper underbody area was designed for reduced wind resistance to help keep the car firmly planted on the ground.

From the side, the GS projects the image of a spacious sport sedan with a road-hugging wider stance. The tapered lower rocker panel and the short front overhang give the vehicle a sense of motion. Width-enhancing front and rear wheel arches add an athletic stance-enhancing the vehicle's dynamic presence.

The rear bumper features a distinctive exhaust diffuser and centered aero fins to help control underbody airflow. Combined with the L-shaped LED tail lamps, a Lexus design cue, these rear bumper features lend a high-performance appearance. Overall, the new GS sheet metal represents a significant extension of the Lexus L-finesse philosophy that is the core of all Lexus product design.

The Lexus GS 350 F Sport package will feature two new colors: Riviera Red and Liquid Platinum, and also be available in Starfire Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl and Obsidian. Vehicles in Riviera Red will benefit from glass flakes incorporated into the coating that adds a high level of brilliance to the paint. Lexus engineers developed a new advanced coating process for Liquid Platinum exteriors. The GS 350 will be the first Lexus to adopt this new coating technology. Vehicles with the Liquid Platinum exterior will appear more radiant as an additional metallic texture gives both strong shading and defined, sharp highlights. This metallic effect makes subtle and defined bodylines more noticeable and the surface appears finely polished.

Interior Design
To complement the aggressive-looking exterior of the F Sport package, the interior will feature an exclusive design treatment with smooth striated aluminum trim, unique perforated leather trim, black headliner and aluminum pedals. Distinctive F Sport badging will be showcased on the steering wheel. Focusing on the driver, the F Sport package will feature a new 16-way power sport seat for increased lateral support. The driver's seat will include a Lexus-first with power side bolsters, thigh support, adjustable seatback and four-way lumbar. To complete the uniqueness of the F Sport package, a striking Cabernet Red leather interior will also be available.

Painstaking attention to detail was applied to the GS cabin as well, to create a balance of luxurious and technological amenities and emotional design. The new layout of the long, sculpted dash gives the driver and front passenger a sense of roominess through its clean center stack and new, large high-resolution center control display placed deep near the front windshield. Most of the comfort and convenience controls, such as audio and climate, were relocated to provide a cleaner and more sophisticated dash layout.

The interior includes a number of embedded premium upgrades as standard equipment. A new energy-saving auto climate control system called S-Flow uses the occupant-detection system to focus airflow only to the front area where passengers are actually seated, a first-in-class technology. A next-generation Remote Touch with one-push confirmation is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive operations control.

The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with the controller, eliminating the need to reach out. Remote Touch also reduces eye movement and helps users operate functions with reduced effort and distraction. A standard rear back-up camera helps add convenience.

The finely crafted cabin detail is complemented further by ambient lighting that unobtrusively welcomes and guides the user into the vehicle, providing a carefully designed experience. New white LED lights are sequentially lit to illuminate the areas around the doors, center console and footwells. A new analog clock with LED indicators, carved from an ingot, adds a unique touch, at once both modern and traditional.

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Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback, 2012

 

 

•  Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback, 2012

Since its market introduction in 2009, the Chevrolet Cruze has won the heart of many motorists worldwide. Sporting distinctive, powerful body lines, it launched a revolutionary design language for the Chevrolet brand.

With the arrival of the Cruze Hatchback, Chevrolet will be present in full force in Europe's hard-fought compact segment. The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback will offer customers the style and versatility of a five-door car, while featuring the same qualities associated with the award-winning Cruze Saloon.

When setting out on the task of creating a five-door hatch based on the Cruze Saloon, Chevrolet's engineering and design team had to take into account that the customer base for the compact five-door market is very heterogeneous. The result is a car that need not shy comparison with the mainstream competition in Europe.

Featuring a bold, expressive Chevrolet design, the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback combines a progressively styled passenger cabin and leading interior space with a line-up of efficient petrol and diesel options. In the domain of safety, too, the Cruze delivers a lot of value, with comprehensive safety equipment standard with all models.
All Chevrolet Cruze Hatchbacks will come with enhancements to the interior. Customers will be able to choose from three different trim levels, LS, LT and LTZ.

Sporty profile, lots of space and technical features
The exterior of the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback evokes movement and kinetic energy. The main design cues which underscore this impression are the fast roofline, the slightly swept, concave shoulder line as well as the headlamps with their pointed, arrow-like housings. The hatchback's proportions, its short front and rear overhangs, and body sides which slope inward when viewed in profile, all reinforce the car's grounded, secure stance.

"It is the speedy, sporty profile and the wide, confident stance that distinguishes the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback from many of its more static contemporaries. We were fortunate to have a great proportion from the Cruze saloon to work with", says Martin Love, Chevrolet Cruze design manager.

Like the Cruze Saloon, the hatch has an assertive front appearance created by the horizontally separated radiator grille and the headlamps' twin halogen bulbs. Moving to the rear, the roof-mounted spoiler and a subtle crease in the pillar which runs to the base of the rear screen reinforce the visual expression of speed. The tail light cluster shows attention to detail and contributes to the upmarket appearance of the Cruze.

Inside, the Cruze is characterised by a flowing cabin arrangement, and by copious amounts of space and great versatility. In reference to executions seen in the iconic Chevrolet Corvette sports car, the Cruze features a dual cockpit layout. It is separated by the integrated centre stack which flows into the centre console. In conjunction with the mid-instrument panel, made of fabric or technical grained protein vinyl, and the LED-backlit instrument cluster, these elements add to the feeling of relaxed comfort.

Luggage capacity is 413 litres with the seats up and rear passengers enjoy 974 mm of headroom. Folding the rear seats forward in a 60/40 split increases the cargo volume to 883 litres. Various storage spaces in the two-tier glove box, the centre console and door pockets, as well as the seatback pockets can be used to stow away a wide array of everyday items, such as books, CDs and small laptops.

Other technology and comfort features:

• A full-feature driver information centre that is now standard with all trims
• A Radio/CD system, MP3 playback functionality and radio digital signal; up to six loudspeakers
• A two or four-colour infotainment display (depending on trim level)
• USB jack located in the centre console storage on LT and LTZ specifications, for MP3 or iPod connectivity
• Manually-controlled air conditioning with particulate filter on the LS model; automatic climate control on all other specifications, plus automatic air recirculation and an air moisture sensor on LTZ models

Efficient powertrain options, excellent traction and handling
Under the bonnet, there is a choice of three engines - two petrol units and one diesel. In early 2012, moreover, a new 1.7-litre diesel engine will become available. All engines are four-cylinder units featuring double overhead camshafts, 16 valves and either multi-point fuel injection, or in the case of the diesels, common-rail technology.

Both the 1.6 and the 1.8-litre petrol engines operate using continuous variable cam phasing. The model year 2012 modifications include new intake manifolds on both units. Powertrain engineers furthermore raised the 1.6-litre engine's compression ratio and adjusted the 1.8-litre's engine control calibration.

At 6,200 rpm, the 1.6-litre petrol engine has an output of 124 hp when equipped with a manual transmission. The 1.8-litre engine delivers 141 hp at 6,200 rpm. Its maximum torque is 176 Nm at 3,800 rpm. Both engines return 42.8mpg, with the 1.6-litre unit emitting 153 g/km of CO2 and the 1.8-litre petrol engine producing 155 g/km of CO2.

Being one of the most powerful engines in the compact segment, the 2.0-litre turbo diesel available in the all-new Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback and model year 2011 Cruze Saloons, can count on increased peak firing pressure in the combustion chamber and a chain-driven timing system.

Excellent throttle response, impressive torque of 360 Nm at 1750 rpm and compliance with Euro 5 standards (147 g/km of CO2) are among the key characteristics of this engine. It produces 163 hp at 3,800 rpm, achieving a top speed of 127mph when combined with a manual transmission and requires 8.3 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60mph. All engines can be combined with either a manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

Key to the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback's excellent handling characteristics are its wide track width, the body structure and its advanced suspension system. The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback has a body-frame-integral (BFI) that is made of high-strength steel and among the most rigid in the segment.

The BFI provides a superior foundation for achieving the nimble, responsive yet relaxed driving that can be experienced in the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback. It also facilitates measures aimed at dampening noise and vibration.

The McPherson strut front suspension has side-load compensated front strut modules with specially shaped springs. The hydraulic ride bushings effectively absorb road input loads and provide a high degree of ride isolation. The design of the compound crank (torsion beam) rear suspension contributes to a lower centre of gravity and also enables weight savings and consistent wheel-camber control.

Steering is either hydraulically or electrically power-assisted and provides the driver with a solid on-centre feel.

Occupant safety a top priority
Both in terms of the materials used and build quality, the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback represents a major improvement over Chevrolet's previous compact hatch. The structure of the Cruze Hatchback is close to identical to that of the Cruze Saloon, which achieved a 5-star NCAP safety rating.

A host of electronic systems has been incorporated in order to prevent accidents from happening. In an emergency, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) will intervene to help the driver keep his vehicle on track and assist him during challenging braking or acceleration maneouvers.

At the core of the Hatchback's safety architecture lies its body frame integral which consists of a single welded unit made of full-length beams, pressings and box sections. Door-beams of ultra-high strength steels provide excellent protection against side impacts.
The six airbags as well as the five three-point seatbelts are controlled by the car's Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM), a device linked to sensors in the front bumper and the B-pillar. Child safety seats can be secured in compliance with ISOFIX standards.

In order to reduce the risk of injuries to the driver in the event of an accident, a collapsible pedal assembly folds away in moderate-to-severe impacts. Meanwhile, the design of the bonnet provides more space between the bonnet and the engine, which makes direct contact between a pedestrian and the engine block much less likely. The bumper system, too, has been configured to reduce the likelihood of pedestrians sustaining injuries from the vehicle's structural components.

Exterior Design
With global sales figures for the four-door variant of the Cruze exceeding even the most optimistic estimates in 2009 and 2010, Chevrolet's designers faced the challenging task of coming up with a design for the hatchback version that would match the Saloon's universal appeal.
The result of these efforts is an exterior that is every bit as dynamic as the Saloon's and even sportier. While it shares the four-door's attractive character lines and key design cues, the five-door has a distinctive, fast-back silhouette.

In keeping with Chevrolet's global design language, the Cruze hatchback has a bold, purposeful stance which sets it apart from its competitors. From every angle, its harmonious proportions and aerodynamic refinement appeal to the eye and convey sportiness, stability and a feeling of speed.

A bold, confident look
Designers of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback adopted the key styling cues that earned them acclaim when the Saloon was unveiled. In fact, from the front, the two cars look exactly the same. The grounded, athletic posture is highlighted by body sides that slope inward as they rise toward the roof. The signature dual-port grille, a trademark on all Chevrolet passenger cars, is separated horizontally by a body-colored crossbar with the bowtie placed in the center. In LS and LT trim, both grille openings are framed in matte chrome.

The grille is flanked by headlamp housings whose upper edges rise sharply to a point along the top of the bumpers. They accommodate twin halogen bulbs that are placed within bright finished pods and covered by clear polycarbonate outer lenses. In conjunction with the piano black background, this arrangement brings a sparkling look to the Cruze's face.

While the bonnet has been carefully sculpted to incorporate the pointed headlamp housings, the lower part of the vehicle's front section includes a trapezoidal air intake as well as outer recesses for optional fog lamps. A fine spoiler lip forms the bottom edge of the front fascia.

Dynamic lines flow into sleek rear section
In profile, an arching roofline and a distinctive concave shoulder line emphasise the car's dynamic posture. The shoulder line runs along the side of the car and is gently swept, implying movement and pent-up energy, ready to be released. Short overhangs both at the front and the rear reinforce the visual expression of stability and sporty performance. Overall vehicle length is 4510 mm while width is 1797 mm.

The design of the hatchback's rear section includes a spoiler with integrated stop lamp which has been fitted to the upper perimeter of the rear glass for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. Clearly visible and centrally located: the Chevy bowtie. The liftgate, meanwhile, has been carefully shaped to be in tune with the car's nimble appearance.

The pronounced rear bumper features a large recess which incorporates the number plate, a rear fog lamp on the left and a back-up lamp on the right hand-side. The flush-mounted tail light clusters emulate the execution seen in the headlamps, with the upper corners extending into the side of the car body. Two circular shapes in each unit echo Chevrolet's traditional twin light styling motif. The LED diodes in the shelf-mounted rear stop light help to underscore the car's upscale visual credentials.

Uncluttered, clean exterior
All trim levels are characterised by their high build quality and close attention to detail. A major factor contributing to the car's appeal is its unadorned exterior which is devoid of ornaments and highlights the elegance inherent to the fundamental design.

The Chevrolet Cruze hatchback has very tight panel gaps and shut-lines. Door-to-door, door-to-fender, and lamp-to-fascia gaps have been designed to measure 3.0 mm or less.

While two wheel sizes - 16 and 17 inch - are available, the space between wheel arch and tyre will remain the same in either case, thanks to constant wheel/tyre diameters of 670 mm. Compensating wheel offsets ensure that the same wheel/body proportions are maintained when the car is viewed from the front or the rear.

Interior design
Like its longer sibling, the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback offers customers a progressively styled, high-quality interior, which can comfortably accommodate five adults. Its passenger cabin has been designed to be in harmony with the vehicle's taut outside appearance while providing leading total interior space and lots of flexibility.

Today's finance-conscious buyers in the compact car segment will prudently scrutinise a vehicle's interior when weighing the return on their investment. An attractive cockpit and passenger cabin layout, precisely arranged interrelated elements, the use of quality materials and the integration of Chevrolet's trademark design cues are the principal factors adding to the feeling of relaxed comfort inside the Cruze Hatchback.

Flowing lines for a modern yet iconic cockpit design
The interior of the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback features the dual-cockpit layout with integrated centre stack design which proved so successful in the four-door. Encapsulating both driver and front-seat passenger, the twin cockpit is a nod to the arrangement seen in the Chevrolet Corvette, one of the world's most famous sports cars.

Separating the driver's space from the front-seat passenger is the integrated centre stack (ICS) that flows seamlessly into the center console. The relatively shallow angle and flowing lines of the centre stack layout distinguishes it from more conventional box-like arrangements often encountered in the segment.

The upper portion of the centre stack incorporates squarely shaped heating, ventilation and air-conditioning outlets to the left and the right, whereas the uppermost section, which intersects with the instrument panel, holds a slightly recessed two or four colour infotainment display.

In up-level specifications, a consistent 'U'-shaped accent trim, in matte silver or molded-in film, helps to visually balance the interior. This is applied across the upper portion of the centre stack, including the centre air vents, to the sides and lower portion around the gear shift, as well as to the lower part of the steering wheel spokes.
Reinforcing the impression of fluid, up-market design is the mid-instrument panel that is made of fabric or technical grained protein vinyl, coloured to match the seat inserts and door trims.

Easily accessible information
The efficiently packaged instrument cluster combines visual clarity with sophisticated styling. Consisting of three hooded speedometer and tachometer analogue dials, as well as fuel and temperature gauges, it provides the driver with the essential information required.

A new element on LS base level Cruzes is the same full-feature driver information centre, which previously was only available from mid-level cars upward. In addition to showing the travel distance and mileage, the centrally located digital readout highlights average speed, selected gear in automatic transmissions and fuel range while updating the driver on instantaneous as well as average fuel economy.

White and ice-blue, LED-powered illumination emanates from behind the gauges and displays, contrasting with the red instrument cluster needles for a classy ambience. All variants of the Cruze hatchback carry a three-spoke steering-wheel with thicker rim section for improved grip and feel. Mid and up-level models allow for tilt and telescoping adjustment of the steering wheel. Steering wheel buttons for remote operation of the audio system and cruise control are standard on mid and up-level trims. Leather-trimmed finishing is available on up-level models.

Technology that paves the way for more comfort
On top of the amenities already mentioned, the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback comes with a wide array of tech equipment designed to make modern driving a more pleasurable experience. All Cruze Hatchback models will have a secure digital (SD) memory card updated navigation system.

The Radio/CD system offers single disc operation and includes MP3 playback functionality as well as radio digital signaling. Related information and a digital clock appear on the infotainment display. Two front-door installed speakers are standard, up to six can be fitted into the car, depending on the trim level.

Mid- and up-level cars have a USB jack offering iPod connectivity in the armrest close to the centre console. The center console provides an auxiliary power outlet for recharging various electronic devices.

A manually-controlled air-conditioning system is standard across the range. All cars with air conditioning incorporate a filter that reduces the inflow of particulates and pollutants which may cause asthma and other respiratory conditions. Mid to upper-level specifications have dual-zone automatic climate control, with LTZ variants featuring automatic air recirculation and an air moisture sensor.

Generous space, flexible seating and neat storage solutions
The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback offers leading interior space and, thanks to its flexible rear seats, enables stowage of bulky cargo. Rear head-room is 974 mm, as compared to 963 mm in the salon. Luggage capacity is 413 litres with the seats up - a 150 percent increase over the 275 litres of cargo room available in the previous five-door Chevrolet in this segment, the Lacetti hatchback. The rear seats fold forward in a 60/40 split, enabling pass-through access to the load area and expanding cargo volume to 883 litres.

Seat upholstery consists of two fabrics or genuine leather and is always colour-coded with the mid-instrument panel. Whereas base level seats feature a woven fabric with dull sheen finish, mid-level models use a knit weave on a colour backing for a two-dimensional look.
French seam stitching that has been benchmarked against the best offerings in the world and firm durometer foam contributes to the seats' high-quality appearance and feel.

Practical opportunities to pack away items of various sorts continue to be appreciated by customers, and the Cruze Hatchback offers plenty of them. The large centre console accommodates CDs and has an adjustable dual cup-holder. Above the centre sits a 62 mm deep recess, which is covered in LS and LTZ variants and can hold different small items.

Further stowage spaces include door pockets with integrated bottle storage (1.5 litre front, 500 ml rear) a large, illuminated two-tier glove-box, a small driver's side storage compartment and seat-back pockets sufficiently large to carry slim laptops.

Engines and transmissions
Designing an engine for today's compact hatchback segment is no easy feat, as customers are expecting lively performance while equally looking to drive a vehicle that consumes as little fuel as possible.

The engine line-up for the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback delivers on both counts and incorporates the latest improvements undertaken as part of the model year 2011 engine enhancements. These include new variable intake manifolds and transmission changes, higher power output, as well reduced CO2 emissions and lower fuel consumption.

Across Europe, three engines will be offered in the near future - two petrol engines and a diesel-powered unit. Beginning in early 2012, a new 1.7-litre diesel engine will be available on the Cruze. All engines are four-cylinder units, with common features including double overhead camshafts, 16 valves and either multi-point fuel injection, or in the case of the diesels, common-rail technology.
While the 1.6-litre petrol engine comes as standard with base (LS) and mid-level (LT) models, the 1.8-litre petrol engine is standard with LTZ variants.Only LT and LTZ variants of the Cruze hatchback will be equipped with the 2.0-litre turbo diesel.

1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines
The enhanced 1.6-litre units will be equipped with a new variable intake manifold. Its compression ratio has been raised from 10.8:1 to 11.0:1. Both the modernised 1.6-litre engine and the enhanced 1.8-litre unit will benefit from revised engine control calibration.

The two petrol engines feature double continuous variable cam phasing. Using lightweight hydraulic vane type phasers, the angle of the camshafts is continuously varied against the crankshaft. Continuous double camshaft adjustment results in an optimised charge cycle, which in turn enables a higher power output and torque characteristics over a wide range of engine speeds, reduced emissions and fuel consumption.

On the 1.8-litre engine, a two-step intake manifold using a rotary sleeve instead of a flap-switching device minimizes airflow resistance at higher speed. Thanks to constant length runners, tonal quality is improved in comparison to conventional manifolds with inlets of unequal length.
Further engine features include a crankshaft of increased strength, aluminum pistons with oil spray cooling, re-engineered water jackets in the cylinder head and block, and integration of an oil/water heat exchanger in the cylinder block.

The 1.6-litre petrol engine delivers 124 hp at 6,200 rpm, when combined with a manual transmission. Performance data for the 1.8-litre engine, mated with a manual transmission, includes a maximum power output of 141 hp at 6,200 rpm, with maximum torque 176 Nm at 3,800 rpm. Top speed is 124 mph. In terms of acceleration, the 1.8-litre Cruze can sprint from 0-60mph in just 9.8 seconds.
Fuel consumption figures are common to both engines, with 42.8mpg. Both engines meet Euro 5 emission requirements. The 1.6-litre unit emits 153 g/km of CO2 whereas the 1.8-litre petrol engine produces 155 g/km of CO2.

Potent turbo-diesel engine for the compact segment
The 2.0-litre turbo diesel available in the Cruze Saloon and hatchbacks are among the most powerful engines in the segment. As of model year 2011, this engine features several enhancements over 2.0-litre turbo diesels previously used in the Cruze. In particular, the engine is now in compliance with Euro 5 emission criteria.

A double overhead camshaft replaces the single overhead cam design seen on older engines while the belt drive timing system is substituted by a chain drive timing system. Other changes include a new 'variable swirl' intake manifold and a closed loop fuel control system instead of an open loop system.
The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel uses high-pressure common rail, multiple fuel injection. Peak firing pressure within the combustion chamber has been increased to 180 bar as part of the modifications.

Thanks to the continually varied pitch of the vanes within the variable geometry turbocharger (with intercooler), the 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine delivers excellent throttle response, particularly when accelerating from low speeds.

Just like the 1.6 and 1.8-litre petrol engines, the 2.0-litre turbo diesel is mounted onto a cast-iron block and has oil-jet cooled pistons and aluminum cylinder heads. Efficient cooling is provided by a water jacket with horizontal fins. Improved exhaust-gas recirculation contributes to increased power and reduced emissions.

When coupled to the six-speed manual transmission introduced on model year 2011 vehicles, the 2.0 litre turbo diesel delivers 163 hp of output at 3,800 rpm, propelling the Cruze to a top speed of 127mph. Engine torque is impressive, with 360 Nm at 1750 rpm while specific power is rated at 81.6 hp/litre. Per kilometre, the engine emits 147 g of CO2 using a manual transmission.

Enhanced transmissions line-up
All engines can be combined with either a manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The five-speed manual transmission coupled to the Cruze's petrol engines has needle bearings for all gears which ensure low friction gear meshing. Triple cone synchronisers for first and second gears enable smooth and easy shifting operation.

The 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine will be mated with a six-speed manual transmission instead of the five-speed application seen in model year 2009 and 2010 vehicles. The on-axis design of the Hydra-Matic six-speed automatic transmission allows for more compact packaging and enhanced crumple zone performance. Adaptive shifting control and widely spaced ratios with a short first gear enable efficient take-off from standstill and long top gear for maximum fuel economy on the open road.

Ride and handling
The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback is bound to attract attention with its sporty looks. Engineers have taken care to ensure that the car's handling matches the five door's agile appearance, and is relaxing but equally responsive. In so doing, they were able to draw valuable inspiration from their colleagues in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) who have worked to design what has recently been one of the most successful touring car designs (for details on the Cruze's success at the WTCC see Racing chapter).

A car's chassis and suspension systems, as well as its fundamental proportions, are the primary elements that determine its ride and handling characteristics. They also influence the noise and vibration heard and felt inside the vehicle. The Cruze Saloon and Hatchback feature two of the most rigid body structures in the segment, made from advanced steels throughout, as well as sophisticated front and rear suspensions.

Large front and rear disc brakes as well as a number of advanced electronic systems play their part in providing the heightened sense of solidity, stability and confident road command that typify the driving experience in the Cruze.

High-strength steels key to rigid body structure
With a wheelbase of 2,685 mm, a front track of 1,544 mm and a rear track of 1,558 mm, the Cruze hatchback has a proportionally wider stance than its predecessor, the Chevrolet Lacetti. This directly translates into outstanding road-holding.

The more mass-efficient and stiffer a car's structure, the easier it is to fine-tune its ride and handling performance to the specific requirements of different markets. The Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback and Saloon have a unitary structure, with the upper body and the car's frame engineered as a single unit.

Crucially, 62 percent of the Cruze's body frame consists of high-strength steels, about 50 percent more than the percentage used in its predecessors. Torsional stiffness is rated at 40 hertz, which places the Cruze among the best in its class.

Suspension ensures optimal balance of ride
The McPherson strut front suspension has side-load compensated front strut modules with specially shaped springs. These reduce the sliding friction caused by the bending load on the strut. Meanwhile, side load compensation allowed engineers to move the front wheels further outboard for a geometrically more stable footprint.

Lightweight front control arms made of aluminum facilitate easy and agile handling while hydraulic ride bushings effectively absorb road input loads, providing a high degree of ride isolation. Engineers also sought to ensure maximum wheel travel.

The front strut system yields a very competitive 76 mm of jounce travel. Rebound travel is also a competitive 96 mm.

At the rear, a compound crank suspension (torsion beam) combines the advantages of a conventional torsion beam - such as minimum space requirements - with low weight and consistent wheel camber control. A major advantage of the rear axle design is its contribution to the vehicle's lower center of gravity. The 60-litre fuel tank is placed between the wheels, which in turn enables a lower positioning of the rear seats.

Thanks to the 'magnetic-arc' welding process used to attach the beam to the trailing links, the thickness of the torsion beam may be varied. Different attachment angles between the beam and the trailing links are possible. Depending on the engine type, vehicle weight and body style, this allows for optimal roll-rate and roll-steer adjustments.

Blotting out noise and vibration
The 68.5 mm bushings fitted to the rear suspension are just one of a number of measures taken by engineers to successfully reduce noise and vibration.

A key enabler to the Cruze's quiet running is the isolation of the sub-frame by means of four rubber mountings. The extension of the front motor compartment side rails into the main longitudinal members in the cabin floor effectively disperses noise and vibration emanating from the powertrain.

The entire car body has been comprehensively insulated using an array of sealants. At interfaces between small body sections, for instance, damping patches were melted into place. This resulted in a 10 to 40 percent better damping performance when compared to what was previously achieved with adhesively applied materials. Elsewhere, nylon baffle packages were molded to fit into specific locations to disrupt the transfer of noise through hollow sections.

As an effective abatement to noise transfer, moreover, the front bulkhead panel is sandwiched with two damping mats. A pre-formed fiberglass sheet is attached to the underside of the bonnet, while pliable rubber seals are placed along the bonnet and between the rear edge of the bonnet and air induction panel.

Other sound dampening features include a three-layer acoustic headliner with a two-layer polyurethane outer skin for an upscale, woven fabric appearance, 14-ounce interior carpeting and a fibreglass blanket in the doors as a barrier against noise, airflow and water.

Fast-acting steering, secure braking
Less than three turns of the steering wheel are required lock-to-lock, giving the Cruze a turning diameter of 10.9 metres curb-to-curb. Steering is hydraulically power-assisted and provides the driver with a solid on-centre feel. Mid- and up-level cars feature rear parking sensors and cruise control.

Disc brakes, with single piston calipers, are fitted all round, 276 mm, ventilated at the front and 268 mm, solid at the rear, for the base model. On up-level variants, front/rear disc sizes are increased to 300/292 mm. The corrosion protected front and rear brake knuckles are made of aluminium, which helps reducing vehicle mass and fuel consumption.

Safety
From the very outset, excellent occupant safety was an overriding objective in developing the Cruze. With the Saloon having won top safety awards - including a 5-star Euro NCAP rating - expectations are high for the five-door variant. Since the fundamental structure of the two vehicles is close to identical, a very similar safety performance can be anticipated.

At the heart of the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback's safety design lies its rigid body structure. Both in terms of the materials used and the way in which it was built, the Cruze Hatchback represents a considerable improvement over Chevrolet's previous compact hatch. A set of sophisticated electronics has been included in the design, in order to prevent an accident from happening in the first place.

Load paths distribute impact energy
A vehicle's crashworthiness depends on the integrity of its structure and how it responds to an impact. The body frame integral around which the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback is built consists of a single welded unit made of full-length beams, pressings and box sections. The torsional rigidity of the Cruze Hatchback exceeds that of its predecessor by about 140 percent. It also has about 30 percent more spot welds.

62 percent of the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback's structure incorporates high-strength steels. The front and rear crush zones have been engineered to collapse in a controlled fashion, so as to maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin.

At low speeds up to 4 km/h, the lightweight aluminum front and rear bumpers are designed to absorb light impacts, thereby minimising damage to the car's bodywork. Meanwhile, the long engine cradle and the frame rails carry the brunt of a possible collision. Together, the two structural elements create a continuous dual load path that effectively distributes the impact energy.

The side structure is a single piece. Welded tubular section-members were used to reinforce the door openings and the roof. The door beams are of ultra-high strength steels and are crucial in providing excellent protection against side impacts.

At the rear, the strong suspension cross member helps transfer loads to the sill areas after deformation of the longitudinal rails. The fuel tank has been placed low down between these rails and is capable of recovering from compression without rupturing.

Adding flexibility where it is needed
While the vehicle's structure is very strong, engineers also had the safety of pedestrians in mind when conceiving the car. The design of the bonnet provides more space between the bonnet and the engine. This minimises the chances of a direct collision between a pedestrian and the engine block. The bumper system, too, has been configured to reduce the likelihood of pedestrians sustaining injuries from the vehicle's structural components.

Inside the car, a collapsible pedal assembly folds away in moderate-to-severe impacts, making injuries to the driver's feet and legs less likely. Child safety seats can be secured in compliance with ISOFIX standards. Two steel loops at each rear outboard seating position and a set of three top tethers on the rear surface of the back seat enable secure attachment.

Six airbags and electronic stability control are standard
All Cruze Hatchbacks are equipped with five three-point seatbelts and six airbags. Apart from the driver and front passenger airbags, two airbags in the outboard edges of the driver and front passenger seat-backs ensure thorax and pelvis protection. Additional head and neck protection is provided by head-curtain airbags fitted into the roof rails between the A and C-pillars.

Both the airbags and the seatbelt pre-tensioners on the front seats are wired to and controlled by the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM). This device enables the airbags to deploy in a matter of milliseconds. It receives information from sensors installed in the front bumper and the B-pillar.

Another standard feature in the Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback is Electronic Stability Control (ESC). ESC helps the driver maintain control in challenging driving situations and keeps the vehicle heading in the intended direction. It also enables more precise, controlled anti-lock braking performance as well as exceptional traction and steering stability.

The Traction Control System (TCS) enhances traction during starting up and acceleration by preventing the wheels from spinning. Anti-lock braking (ABS) allows the driver to brake and steer at the same time, helping to prevent potential collisions. An integrated electronic brake distribution (EBD) system proportions brake pressure during braking manoeuvres.

Specification and pricing
The new Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback offers a premium specification and great styling at a surprisingly affordable price.

With the range kicking off at only £13,995, the new model brings extra levels of sleekness and practicality to the motorsport-proven Cruze line-up, the Saloon variant of which won both the 2010 British Touring Car Drivers championship and both drivers' and manufacturers' titles in the World Touring Car series.

It also moves the Cruze into the mainstream - since 1988, the compact hatchback market has been the UK's most prolific market segment, especially among fleet customers.

Backed by a five-year warranty at retail, the hatchback variant of the Cruze is offered in three trim levels, and with a choice of two petrol or one diesel engine. Further engine variants will follow, including a smaller capacity diesel. All have Electronic Stability Control as standard, along with a host of safety features comparable to the five-star Euro NCAP rated Cruze Saloon.

The entry-level LS model, equipped with a 1.6 litre engine developing 124PS, comes with an array of standard equipment that is more commonly found on other manufacturers' mid-trim variants. Air conditioning, remote locking, electric-front windows, follow-me-home headlights, electrically-adjustable heated door mirrors and a quality radio/CD player with auxiliary input are all included in the price.

Moving up the range, the LT model starts at an extremely attractive £14,895 on-the-road for the 1.6-litre 124PS petrol variant. A 1.6 auto and a 163PS 2.0 VCDi diesel manual are also available.
LT trim includes extra premium features, such as cruise control, electric windows all round, parking distance sensors, 16-inch alloy wheels, front fog lamps, steering wheel audio controls and a leather steering wheel and gearknob.
Starting at £16,095, the LTZ trim offers exceptional levels of standard kit, including Bluetooth, a USB port, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, an electro-chromatic rear view mirror, 17-inch alloys and aluminium-effect trim on the instrument panel.

Top of the range is the LTZ with Executive Pack, which gets leather trim as standard, along with satellite navigation and heated front seats. Available only as a diesel, prices start at £19,295.

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