Citroen C4 L, 2013

 

 

 

•  Citroen C4 L, 2013

The "Lounge" version of the Citroën C4 is positioned at the top end of the C-segment. Launched in late 2012 in China and in 2013 in Russia, the Citroën C4 L extends the C4 family and is fully consistent with the "positive energy" spirit of the line-up through its prestigious and contemporary styling, exceptional on-board well-being and creative in-car technologies ensuring comfort, safety and performance.

Dynamic, prestigious styling
The Citroën C4 L three-box saloon immediately gives off an impression of vitality with its well-balanced proportions (4.62 m x 1.78 m x 1.5 m) and road-hugging stance. It also expresses elegance and modernity through strong styling and classic Citroën design cues, including sculptural lines, a large chrome-finished grille, front and rear light signatures, and a convex rear window inspired by those on the Citroën C5 and C6.

The new model's top-end status is underscored by seamless panel joints, alloy wheels and pure and well-defined chrome detailing, all of which also serve to boost the personality of the Citroën C4 L, an elegant and refined car worthy of superior segments and featuring impressive levels of in-car equipment.

Prestigious driver's station
The impression of quality continues behind the wheel, with a high-end driver's station and a lavishly equipped console. The dashboard includes a modern instrument cluster with a sophisticated play of transparency and light and settings that drivers can set to suit their tastes. The Citroën C4 L is also extremely user-friendly and puts drivers and passengers at ease immediately. Drivers can operate the driving and comfort controls without taking their hands off the wheel.

New standards in quality
The Citroën C4 L is strong on perceived quality at all levels, from styling and materials to technologies, such as laser welding. For optimal reliability and long-lasting performance, Citroën will carry out over four million kilometres of tests worldwide before launch.

First-class travel
In line with Brand values, the Citroën C4 L was designed with the travelling comfort of passengers in mind. It brings occupants unrivalled well-being in the segment, with generous rear leg room, thanks to the longest wheelbase in the segment (at 2.71 m, some 10 cm more than the new Citroën C4), and supremely comfortable rear seats featuring wraparound bases, 29° tilting seat backs and, depending on the country, "comfort" head rests for first-class travel in a lounge-like atmosphere.

The Citroën C4 L also boasts a capacious boot, at 440 litres VDA, and a host of ingenious and roomy storage compartments, such as big door bins, a sizeable glove box and a cubbyhole under the armrest.

Top-grade thermal and acoustic comfort
The Citroën C4 L also benefits from top-grade thermal comfort and a pure cabin atmosphere thanks to an airquality management system, an air conditioning unit with three air-flow settings and, depending on the country, an air ioniser. Acoustic comfort is also strong, with optimised soundproofing (sealed-out exterior noise and filtered road noise). The aim is simple: total calm for all passengers.

Citroën road feel
Citroën fine tuned the suspension settings on the C4 L to give it optimal comfort, strong roadholding and inimitable Citroën road feel. Bumps and holes are soaked up masterfully for front and rear passengers alike. The C4 L sets a new standard in its segment on this score.

As well as comfortable, the Citroën C4 L is easy to drive, with precise steering, controlled body roll and sharp responses for dodging obstacles and braking in emergencies. The new model immediately inspires the confidence of driver and passengers.

Modern equipment
For the safety and well-being of all passengers, the Citroën C4 L is, depending on the country, available with cutting-edge technologies such as hands-free start-up, a fully heated windscreen, a reversing camera for easier parking, an automatic windscreen wiper/headlamp system, Xenon dual-function headlamps and a touch-screen GPS system.

The latest-generation GPS features a number of quality features, including a 7-inch touch screen, a DVD player, mapping with real-view 3D intersections, and, naturally, connectivity for portable devices (USB, streaming, etc.) plus a Bluetooth hands-free kit.

New range of petrol engines
The Citroën C4 L ships with a broad range of market-adapted petrol engines:

•     the THP engine, designed with the BMW group, with high-pressure direct sequential injection and a Twin Scroll turbocharger, developing 150 bhp to 170 bhp (depending on country) and generating torque of 240 Nm from 1,400 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed automatic and sequential gearbox, this engine guarantees an excellent at-the-wheel experience.
•     the new VTi 135 unit (1.8 16V with 136 bhp), equipped with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed auto/sequential gearbox. This new "core range" powerplant, launched with the Citroën C4 L, is available in China.

An international car
The Citroën C4 L is a 100% international car through:

•     its "project team". The C4 L was styled in China by a multi-cultural team, designed in Europe, developed by project teams based in Russia and China, and tested around the world in severe driving conditions. Citroën rolled out a fully international project to better meet the needs of each customer base;
•     its production sites. The Citroën C4 L will be produced as close as possible to its markets, initially at Wuhan in China and at Kaluga in Russia;
•     its product definition. By producing the C4 L locally, Citroën can adapt to the specific needs of each market in terms of interior design scheme, body colour and available features (engines, equipment, suspension settings).

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Chevrolet Sonic RS, 2013

 

 

•  Chevrolet Sonic RS, 2013

A hotter Chevrolet Sonic is about to sound off - the 2013 Sonic RS. It goes on sale in late 2012, after making its public debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show.

The new RS amplifies the Sonic's youthful style and driving experience with unique exterior and interior features matched with a 138-horsepower (103 kW) Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine. Sonic is the only vehicle in its segment to offer a turbocharged powertrain.

The Chevrolet Sonic RS is offered exclusively in the five-door body style. Chevrolet's exclusive MyLink infotainment system is standard. It enables navigation directions downloaded through a smart phone to be shown on the radio's large display, and offers the personalized connectivity of Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio.

Chevrolet Sonic RS exterior features
    New front fascia with new fog lamp design
    New RS-specific grille
    New rear fascia
    New rear spoiler
    New rocker moldings
    Unique mirror cap finish
    Retuned sport exhaust with chrome outlet
    Unique 17-inch five-spoke wheel design
    Lowered and stiffened suspension with performance-tuned dampers
    RS badging.

The more-aggressive look of the Chevrolet Sonic RS is inspired by the concept that debuted in Detroit in 2010. The Sonic RS will be available in Victory Red, Summit White, Cyber Gray Metallic and Black Granite Metallic, which is a new exterior color for the 2013 Sonic.

One of the most-dramatic cues from the concept carried into the production model is the Chevrolet Sonic RS's front fascia, which has a deep air dam design that enhances the car's road-hugging stance. Vertical intakes at the edges of the fascia reinforce the wide, low proportion and house the fog lamps.

Sonic RS interior features
    New front sport seats
    New sport steering wheel with thicker rim and racing-inspired flat-bottom design
    New shifter knob (manual transmission)
    New aluminum sport pedals
    Specific instrument panel cluster graphics
    RS-specific interior trim color for the instrument panel and door trim inserts.

The Chevrolet Sonic RS's interior is a connected environment, with the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment seven-inch color touch screen radio. This system allows customers to bring customized music libraries into the vehicle and use their smart phones and Bluetooth connectivity to access Pandora and Stitcher Internet radio and navigation. Navigation directions downloaded through a smart phone can be displayed on the screen and, when the vehicle is stopped, users can project video and even personal photo albums onto the screen from their phone.

Sonic RS performance
The Sonic RS is powered by a standard Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine that is rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) - and provides an immediate feeling of power that is sustained across the rpm band, for a greater feeling of performance at lower rpm. It's matched with a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic.

Unique gear ratios for the six-speed manual transmission and unique final drive ratio for the automatic give the Chevrolet Sonic RS a sportier feel than non-RS models.

Complementing the segment-exclusive turbocharged powertrain is MacPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bar, and a semi-independent, torsion beam axle-mount compound link-type rear suspension - featuring a robust, tubular V-shape beam - with gas-charged shocks. The front and rear tracks are identical at 59.4 inches (1,509 mm), for well-planted stability and balance.

The new RS is the only Sonic model offered with four-wheel disc brakes, which are partnered with a four-channel anti-lock braking system. The four-sensor system - one at each wheel - incorporates electronic brake force distribution, which balances braking performance based on such factors as road conditions and the weight of passengers and/or cargo.

Electric power steering is standard and features a wear compensator that continually adjusts the system interaction with the steering gear to ensure precise steering action over the life of the system.

Sonic lineup at a glance
The Chevrolet Sonic is offered in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door, with a starting price of $14,495 (including destination charge). Each body style delivers class-leading, rear-seat roominess and cargo space. Vehicle highlights:

•     Standard Ecotec 1.8L engine (non-RS models) paired with five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions
•     Standard electric power steering and StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing
•     Sedan offers trunk capacity that is greater than most compact cars; hatchback and sedan offer better rear-seat roominess than Ford Fiesta. With a rear seat that folds nearly flat, the Sonic hatchback has greater cargo capacity than Fiesta
•     Connectivity includes OnStar with six months of Turn-by-Turn navigation. Available features include XM Satellite Radio, USB and Bluetooth functionality and MyChevrolet mobile application
•     Remote start, heated front seats and sunroof - all rarities in the segment
•     Ten standard air bags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist and OnStar with Automatic Crash Response.

Sonic is built at the General Motors' Orion Assembly Center in Michigan, which received a $545-million investment in upgrades and retooling and helped restore approximately 1,000 jobs in the metropolitan Detroit area.

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Audi RS Q3 Concept, 2012

 

 

 

 

•  Audi RS Q3 Concept, 2012

At Auto China 2012 in Beijing, Audi is presenting a themed vehicle based on the Q3 - the Audi RS Q3 Concept. It interprets the character of the compact SUV in a very special way - systematically dynamic.

The blue painted Audi RS Q3 Concept is a vehicle based on the theme of thrilling dynamic performance. Its engine, a 2.5 TFSI with 265 kW (360 hp) of power, and its body - lowered about 25 mm (0.98 inches) and widened with sharp visual details - explore the potential of the Q3 model series in a new way.

Brushed and polished aluminum trim frames the Audi RS Q3 Concept's single-frame radiator grille. Its black grille insert exhibits a new geometry - the honeycombs are slightly offset to one another deeper inside, creating a distinct three-dimensional effect. The lower area of the grille integrates another sculpted feature - a silver quattro signature. The headlights are slightly tinted; inside them, some chrome parts are dark or covered by panels of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP).

The bumper was redesigned; there are now powerful edges around the outer air intakes. They are subdivided into two segments - the inner sections have honeycomb screen inserts, while their outer sections, made of CFRP, have a smooth funnel shape. The front spoiler is also made of CFRP. Its lower section is matt black. The entire lower section of the bumper is coated with blue clearcoat paint.

The same combination of black and blue tinted areas is repeated on the sides of the Audi RS Q3 Concept - on the trim strips of the doors and sills and on the add-on parts of the wheel housings. The door mirror housings consist of black CFRP, while matt aluminum trim frames the side windows. The roof spoiler runs a long way towards the rear; its middle section has been slightly shortened compared to its outer sections. It is painted in the body color Ordos Blue - a matt blue with a slight yellow tint.

At the rear, the lower bumper section has a sporty and angular style. The diffuser insert, which integrates the two large elliptical tailpipes in typical RS look, has been shifted far upward. Here too, Audi designers chose a combination of blue clearcoat and black CFRP. The rear lights and auxiliary lights in the bumper are tinted in anthracite and are made of clear glass.

Blue and black: the interior
In the interior of the Audi RS Q3 Concept, which gets plenty of light through a glass sunroof, cool black is the dominant color - on the roofliner, floor carpet, floor mats, leather-upholstered instrument panel and on large areas of the seat upholstery, which consists of Fine Nappa leather. Dark blue Alcantara is used as a contrasting element on the seat covers.

The contrasting blue color is used in an inventive way in the CFRP decorative panels - the panel material was produced by weaving brilliant blue luminescent glass fibers into it. The steering wheel has large control stalks made of CFRP, which are framed by aluminum accents. Most of the wheel is covered with black Velvet leather - a leather that gives the hands a secure grip and repels dirt very well. In the door trim panels, there are surfaces in blue Alcantara.

The inside door handle has a perforated lightweight construction look as in every RS model. In the tachometer, Chinese characters replace the usual Arabic numerals. RS Q3 badges adorn the instrument cluster, the seatbacks, door sill plates and floor mats.

The styling of the engine compartment is also extremely sporty in appearance. A layered-carbon trim panel covers the area around the five-cylinder engine that sports a red valve cover, and two laterally arranged ventilation screens feed air to the engine. As is the practice in car racing, the cylinder numbers are marked on their spark plug covers. An aluminum housing holds the open sports air filter, and the filtered air tube is made of stainless steel.

Powerful: the drivetrain
The extremely powerful 2.5 TFSI in the Audi RS Q3 Concept combines two classic Audi technologies - gasoline direct injection and turbocharging. From 2,480 cc of engine displacement, it generates 265 kW (360 hp) of power. The car catapults itself from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.2 seconds, and its propulsive force takes it to a top speed of 265 km/h (164.66 mph).

A seven-speed S tronic transfers the forces of the sonorous 2.5 TFSI to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Generally, it directs these forces almost exclusively to the front wheels. When slip is detected there, it can redistribute forces to the rear axle via a hydraulic multi-plate clutch with electronic control - instantaneously and variably.

The alloy wheels of the Audi RS Q3 Concept continue the dynamic RS Q styling and have the dimensions 8.5 J x 20. The front surfaces are high-gloss, while the sides are sandblasted. The tire size of 255/30 is not exactly typical for an SUV, but certainly for an RS model.

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BMW M5 UK Version, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  BMW M5 UK Version, 2012

For more than 25 years the BMW M5 Saloon has defined the high-performance saloon segment, in the process becoming the most successful car of its type in the world. Now a new fifth-generation model raises the concept of the premium executive saloon combining track-car dynamics and supreme touring comfort to an even higher level.

It features the most potent engine ever devised by BMW's high-performance M division, here making its world premiere, along with race-bred chassis technology that includes, for the first time, an Active M differential and electronic damping control. The unique exterior design has been dictated by the technical requirements of the car, while the luxurious sports car-like cockpit offers an extensive range of innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services.

The new M5 Saloon available in the UK in November 2011, priced at £73,040 on-the-road.

Drivetrain
The heart of any BMW M car is its engine, and never more so than with the new BMW M5. For the first time an M5 features a turbocharged power unit - a high-revving 4.4-litre (4,395cc) V8, here making its world premiere. Developing 560hp from 5,750-7,000rpm, it is the most potent series-production engine ever to emerge from BMW's high-performance M division. Incorporating the company's M TwinPower Turbo technology, twin-scroll turbochargers, high-precision direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and a cross-bank exhaust manifold, it guarantees the legendary BMW M-car thrust with seamless lag-free delivery from little more than tickover speed thanks to 680Nm of torque from only 1,500rpm.

Compared with the previous V10-engined BMW M5, maximum power is up by around 10 per cent and peak torque by more than 30 per cent. As a result, the latest M5 can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds, and 0-124mph in only 13 seconds. The voluntarily limited top speed is 155mph.

The two banks of the V8 engine are arranged at 90 degrees, leaving space to accommodate the two turbochargers and catalytic converters in their midst. This ensures that the engine is not only extremely compact, but that the catalytic converters reach operating temperature more quickly to boost efficiency, while the short length of the unique intake and exhaust ducts minimises pressure losses. BMW's patented cross-bank exhaust manifold optimises gas flow to the twin-scroll turbochargers, which have been specially developed for the BMW M5 Saloon to deliver a maximum charge pressure of 1.5 bar. The construction principle of the M TwinPower Turbo technology also helps give the BMW M5 Saloon its distinctive V8 soundtrack.

Solenoid injectors positioned centrally between the valves, within immediate range of the spark plugs, deliver multiple sprays of fuel directly into the cylinders at a maximum pressure of 200 bar. The cooling effect of direct injection allows an extraordinarily high compression ratio of 10:1, a further aid to efficiency. VALVETRONIC fully variable valve control adjusts the lift of the intake valves to minimise throttle losses in the gas cycle, while Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft control helps the engine achieve its outstanding level of torque at low rpm.

Transmission
In any BMW, performance goes hand-in-hand with efficiency, and the new BMW M5 Saloon is no exception. With BMW's seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission Drivelogic and Efficient Dynamics technology, including engine Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration, the BMW M5's fuel consumption has been reduced by more than 30 per cent to 28.5mpg, while CO2 emissions tumble to 232g/km.

The transmission offers manual (S) and fully automated (D) shift options, with three programmes in each, allowing the driver to select the most sporty, relaxed or efficient driving style at will via a rocker switch. There is also a low speed assistance function to keep the car moving smoothly through heavy traffic with only a light touch on the accelerator. At the same time the engine characteristics can be switched from Efficient to Sport or Sport Plus through another button in the centre console.

Chassis
The driving dynamics of the new M5 Saloon are grouped under an umbrella which BMW calls Hallmark M. They include a further advancement of the specially developed differential that allows M drivers to enjoy the benefits of high-powered rear-wheel-drive cars with maximum safety. Called Active M, it is an electronically controlled multi-plate limited slip differential that intervenes rapidly and precisely at an early stage to control wheelspin and keep the car stable. Its control unit is connected via FlexRay high-speed data transfer to the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system to calculate the locking force needed - anywhere between 0 per cent and 100 per cent. It also takes into account the position of the accelerator, the rotational speed of the wheels and the car's yaw rate.

As a result, the BMW M5 Saloon driver not only has the safety net of a sophisticated and responsive traction control system in slippery conditions and tightening corners, but is also able to enjoy to the full the agility which is an essential part of the make-up of all M cars.

The DSC system is linked to the anti-lock brakes (ABS), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Brake Assistant, Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying function and Start-off Assistant. By pressing the DSC button the driver can override the basic settings and select M Dynamic Mode (MDM), which raises the intervention thresholds or turns them off completely.

The new BMW M5's Saloon agility owes as much to its perfect front-to-rear weight balance and excellent power-to-weight ratio (3.3kg per bhp) as it does to the chassis dynamics which, like the engine, have benefited from BMW's participation in top-level motorsport.

The BMW M5 Saloon has bespoke M-specific suspension with specially developed axle kinematics honed not only on the race track but also through extensive testing at the Nürburgring. As a result, the chassis components are both light and strong. The new BMW M5 comes as standard with electronically controlled dampers that allow drivers to select from three settings - Comfort for normal road use, Sport when a more dynamic driving style is preferred and Sport Plus for the most extreme driving, such as on a race track.

The driver can also choose between three settings for the M-tuned Servotronic power assisted steering. Comfort requires only a small amount of steering effort when manoeuvring or parking, but still allows the instant changes of direction expected of an M car at higher speeds. Sport delivers more intensive feedback, while Sport Plus requires greater force on the wheel so that the driver gets precisely the response that is intended from every steering input.

The new M5 has six-piston caliper brakes featuring a further development of BMW's remarkable compound construction so that they resist fade even under repeated heavy loads and deliver an exceptional degree of feel. They are mounted within 19-inch M light alloy wheels with 265/40 R19 tyres at the front and 295/35 R19 tyres at the rear. Forged 20-inch alloys can be specified as an option.

Design The dynamic appearance and authoritative stance of the regular 5-Series saloon have been lifted by M-specific design features at the front, rear and sides. These have been almost entirely dictated by the technical demands of an ultra-high-performance car.

The wide-spread M black slats in the grille and the three air intakes in the low front apron are there to satisfy the cooling requirements of the twin-turbo V8 engine, for example, while the air channelling flaps at the lower edge of the front end were developed on the race track and are designed to optimise the aerodynamics of the car.

The contours of the bonnet converge into a V shape to meet the customary BMW double-kidney grille, which sits above a forward projecting central aperture between two curving side intakes which collectively emphasise the width of the new BMW M5 Saloon. Standard bi-xenon front light clusters contain visually unique LED light rings and indicator lights which consist of 10 LED units. LED accent lights cut across the top of the familiar BMW twin round headlamps.

A long wheelbase, set-back passenger compartment and high-gloss black side window surround accentuate the stretched profile of the new M5 Saloon. Flared wheel arches, flush 19- or 20-inch wheels and lowered M suspension ensure the car's sporting characteristics do not go unmistaken. The wheels give a clear view of the six-piston fixed calipers of the high-performance braking system.

The front side sections have a fresh interpretation of the hallmark M gills within a chrome frame adorned with the BMW M logo, while the mirror casings - in body colour with high-gloss black lower edges and bases - are aerodynamically shaped, emphasised by their horizontal crease line. The side skirts feature a powerful bulge and a rising crease which draws attention to the driven wheels and re-emphasises that this is the performance flagship of the 5-Series range.

At the rear, horizontal lines give the BMW M5 a wide, sporty stance, and a diffuser is incorporated in the lower edge of the apron to allow sufficient airflow through the underfloor section. A signature feature of the new BMW M5 is the twin-tailpipe exhaust system, positioned wide on either side of the diffuser.

A subtle Gurney flap on the rear edge of the boot lid provides additional downforce at high speed. L-shaped rear light units contain LED strips, indicators and brake lamps and are clearly identifiable at night as belonging to a BMW.

Interior design
The interior of the BMW M5 fuses the intimacy of a sports-car cockpit, the spaciousness of a prestige saloon and the luxury of a premium car. It features bespoke M Sports seats, Merino leather upholstery, Aluminium Trace interior trim strips and the BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite, plus the BMW iDrive control system with a 10.2-inch Control Display. M5 lettering on the sill panels is standard.

The instrument cluster with black-panel technology includes classic BMW M circular dials with red needles and white illumination. The multifunction buttons on the M leather steering wheel operate the cruise control, radio and telephone. On the left-hand side the driver will now find two M Drive buttons which can call up a pre-configured setting for the car - for example, a sports or a more comfort-orientated set of driving characteristics.

The driver can adjust no fewer than six parameters: engine management, the Servotronic power steering, the M DCT Drivelogic gearshift programme, DSC mode, the electronically variable Dynamic Damper Control and the information relayed in the standard driver Head-up Display. These can be re-configured at any time via the iDrive menu.

Standard and optional equipment
The new BMW M5 offers an extensive range of standard and optional innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services in a sports car-like cockpit that meets every requirement of a premium high-performance saloon.

Standard equipment in the UK includes Head-up Display, DAB digital radio, front and rear Park Distance Control, four-zone air-conditioning, Xenon headlights, Adaptive Headlights and front seat heating. With Professional Multimedia Navigation system and BMW Assist, a new real-time traffic information service provides accurate traffic bulletins and diversion suggestions. Furthermore, with Bluetooth and USB audio interface as standard, the integration of Smartphones and music players keep occupants entertained and informed.

Optional equipment including a rear-view camera, High-Beam Assistant, Speed Limit information, Lane Change and Lane Departure warnings, Surround View and BMW Night Vision ensure the driver is aware of anything and everything happening within the vicinity of the car. A Mobile Application preparation allows iPhone owners to receive web radio stations and display Facebook and Twitter posts on the Control Display.

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Toyota Hilux, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Toyota Hilux, 2012

First released in Japan in 1967, and one year later throughout Europe, the legendary Toyota Hilux has been a dominant presence in the global pick-up market for almost 45 years.

To date, the world's favourite pick-up has recorded cumulative global sales of over 13 million units. Last year, global sales reached 549,000 units, an increase of 25% over the previous year. In Europe, 21,866 Hilux vehicles were sold in 2010, representing close to 25% of the segment and making the Toyota pick-up the leader for the third consecutive year.

The new pick-up will be available in 36 European countries, and more than 135 throughout the world. With anticipated European sales of almost 26,000 units in 2011, the Toyota Hilux success story is set to continue.

Refined Interior Quality and more Sophisticated Exterior Design

The 2012 Hilux features extensive revisions to both its interior and exterior design. The interior changes include improved sensory quality throughout the cabin, and passenger car levels of convenience.

A new, horizontal centre instrument cluster design reinforces the breadth and roominess of the cabin. The centre cluster is clearly divided into two sections. The upper part incorporates Toyota Touch, a 6.1" touch screen multimedia unit. The lower part houses new designs for both manual and automatic air-conditioning controls.

The driver's instrument cluster has been redesigned to enhance meter clarity, and SR and SR+ grades are now equipped with Optitron meters. A new, more modern steering wheel design incorporates grade-differentiated switchgear.

Perceived quality has been significantly improved through the adoption of uniformly darker finishes with a greater colour consistency throughout the interior. This sense of increased sophistication is further enhanced through new, silver ornamentation to the display audio unit, steering wheel and gearshift knob. A choice of four seat upholstery finishes, including leather, offers improved durability and stronger grade differentiation.

The new exterior design gives the 2012 Toyota Hilux a distinctive, instantly recognisable presence, whilst maintaining the legendary toughness essential for professional work.

The front of the vehicle is entirely new from the A pillar forwards. It combines an image of rugged durability appropriate to a 'workhorse' with a more curved, three-dimensional image reflecting the vehicle's SUV-like appeal to the growing leisure segment of the European pick-up market.

The flowing lines of a new bonnet design extend into a new, more sophisticated, reverse trapezoid-shaped radiator grille. The grille is flanked by powerful headlamp clusters which project beyond the bodywork extremities to enhance turn signal visibility. A new front bumper design incorporates a large air intake flanked by integrated fog lamp housing.

In profile, the 2012 Toyota Hilux's clean, robust bodywork is enhanced by a new front and rear wing design which incorporates a strong, rearward-flowing character line adding a powerful sense of movement. The vehicle profile is further enhanced by new, robust 15" and sporting 17" steel and alloy wheel designs, and new door mirrors featuring integrated turn signals on SR and SR+ grade models.

To the rear, new combination lamp clusters and a new high level stop lamp match the projecting design of the headlamps to maximise visibility. And 'workhorse' DLX grade models mark the reintroduction of a tough, durable flat bumper design.
The 2012 Toyota Hilux will be available in a range of 8 exterior body colours, of which two, Dark Steel and Silky Gold, are new.

New Grade Structure
In order to create a stronger differentiation between 'workhorse', 'dual usage' and 'leisure' versions, the 2012 Hilux is now available in four grades: DLX, the new DLX+, SR and SR+
Fulfilling a 'workhorse'/'dual usage' role, the brand new DLX+ grade is available with 2WD or 4WD 2.5 D-4D powertrains mated to a manual transmission in all three body styles and with a 4WD 3.0 D-4D powertrain and manual transmission as a Double Cab only.

DLX models are equipped with an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), a rear differential lock, electric windows, remote door locking and electric, heated door mirrors.
The optional Styling pack for DLX+ Double Cab adds a body-coloured front bumper and wheel arch protectors, wider tyres and front fog lamps.

With a choice of three body types, two engines, manual and automatic transmission and two- or four-wheel drive, Europe's pick-up of choice now satisfies the requirements of an even wider professional and leisure customer base.

Upgraded 2Wd 2.5 D-4D, 2012 Toyota Hilux Engine Range Now Euro V Compliant
Through the introduction of variable nozzle turbocharging, 2012 Hilux 2WD, 2.5 D-4D models now benefit from a 24 hp increase in power. The improved 2494 cc, 16 valve, DOHC four-cylinder common-rail unit now develops 144 hp at 3,600 rpm and 343 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, matching the output of 2.5 litre four-wheel drive variants.

This power increase has been achieved through the adoption of a DC motor-actuated, variable nozzle vane-type turbocharger and the use of new injectors. The new injectors offer more precise fuel injection, improving throttle response and performance.

Durable, reliable and quiet, the 2.5 D-4D engine further benefits from several performance and efficiency enhancing measures. A high-performance turbo-intercooler not only increases power but also enhances emissions performance. A sophisticated Swirl Control System optimises the air-fuel mixture at low engine speeds, increasing torque availability without the need for acceleration. And an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler optimises EGR gas temperature to improve emissions performance.

As a result of the 24 hp power increase, the 2012 Toyota Hilux 2.5 D-4D 2WD accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 14.1 seconds, and has a top speed of 170 km/h.
Despite these significant performance increases, combined cycle fuel consumption has been reduced by 1.0 l/100 km to 7.3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions lowered by 26 g/km to only 193 g/km.

Complimenting this power increase, 2012 Toyota Hilux 2WD versions are now equipped with the more robust chassis design of 4WD models. This not only improves vehicle ground clearance, but also increases the two-wheel drive models' towing capacity to 2.5 tons.

The 3.0 D-4D engine develops 171 hp and when mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, and has a top speed of 170 km/h. It returns an average fuel consumption of 8.6 l/100 km, and generates CO2 emissions of 227 g/km.
Equipped with an optional, 5-speed automatic gearbox, acceleration from 0-100 km/h improves to 12 seconds, and top speed rises to 175 km/h. Average fuel consumption is 8.4 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 223 g/km.

Both powertrains benefit from high torque output across a wide engine speed range -the 2.5 D-4D generating 343 Nm between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm, manual versions of the 3.0 litre engine matching this figure between an even wider, 1,400-3,400 rpm band- offering optimum performance at any speed, across any terrain.

Thanks to the adoption of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) both 2.5 D-4D and 3.0 D-4D engines are now EURO V compliant. The DPF system collects and regenerates PM (Particulate Matter) in exhaust gas and efficiently oxidizes carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon.

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