Saturday, April 27, 2013

Spyker B6 Venator Concept, 2013

 
 
  •  Spyker B6 Venator Concept, 2013

The global resurgence of Spyker as a creator of meticulously built automobiles whose beauty is equaled by their unrivaled craftsmanship. The brand's revival is heralded by the introduction of the Spyker B6 Venator Concept, a unique alternative in the High Luxury Sports sector, at the 83rd Geneva International Motor Show. The Spyker B6 Venator Concept is a compact, 2-door mid-engine sports car that offer the discerning driver of the highest standards a new choice, delivering a rare combination of heritage, design, performance and exclusivity.

Designed by Victor R. Muller, Chief Executive Officer of Spyker N.V., the Spyker B6 Venator Concept makes a defiantly contemporary statement whilst paying homage to its past, making it instantly recognizable as a Spyker. Highly detailed design, bespoke materials and aviation-inspired elements are a core part of the Spyker DNA. With the announcement of the Spyker B6 Venator Concept, the company once again proves its Latin axiom: "Nulla tenaci invia est via" - "For the tenacious no road is impassable." The name "Venator" is Latin as well, meaning "Hunter" - a nod back to Spyker's "Hunter" fighter aircraft of the early 20th century.

The Spyker B6 Venator Concept begin production in early 2014 for key markets including Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and India, followed by the US in autumn 2014.

The Spyker B6 Venator Concept is being shown for the first time at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show alongside the Spyker C8 Aileron that was first introduced at the 2009 Geneva International Motor Show. The design of the Spyker C8 Aileron represented another significant step in the evolution of Spyker, shifting from propeller to turbine inspired design.

The introduction of the Spyker B6 Venator Concept marks the beginning of a new era for the brand, one that will include a significant increase in production led by a management team that has never been stronger. Last year Spyker expanded its global leadership with the appointment of John Walton as Chief Commercial Officer. Together, Muller and Walton are leading a passionate team that is supremely dedicated to creating unique and beautiful high- performance sports luxury cars.

Since the brand's rebirth in 2000, the company has lived its motto - "for the tenacious no road is impassable" - making bold moves to ensure that Spyker will continue to be a viable, no-compromise brand. The company was taken public in 2004 in order to fund product development and growth. After a few bleak years and newfound partnerships, the momentum is all in the right direction. The financial standing of Spyker N.V. is strong, thanks to the recent conversion of all shareholder debt into equity and a €10M share issue to Youngman. The result: in 2012, Spyker N.V. recorded a €125M profit, laying the foundation for brand's global resurgence that is signaled today by the introduction of the Spyker B6 Venator Concept.

Victor R. Muller, Spyker's CEO said, "There is no denying that Spyker went through a very rough period in recent years. However, today we prove the truth of our motto since 1914, 'Nulla tenaci invia est via' - 'For the tenacious no road is impassable.' Our dealer body and prospective clients have been asking us to make a more affordable car for everyday use. The Spyker B6 Venator Concept is that car and more: it is the highlight of our hard work to create a viable future for our company. By offering an exquisite, hand-crafted, exclusive car at a more accessible price point of approximately $125,000 / $150,000, more of those discerning drivers who have aspired to own a Spyker able to achieve that dream. Spyker B6 Venator Concept represents our view of the future, the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our history."

Exterior highlights
  • The trademark radiator grille's mesh is V-shaped, referencing Spyker models of the previous century. The 1903 Spyker logo harkens back to an era when Spyker built racers such as the amazing 60HP.
  • The aerodynamically shaped glass aircraft canopy extends rearwards to minimize drag, optimizing performance.
  • The 3D LED rear lights are akin to the iris-type after burners of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft.
  • The brake light has been sculpted into the rear panel design to ensure smooth, flowing design lines.
  • Elegantly aggressive 19" TurbofanTM wheels are shown in mirror polish finish.

Interior highlights
  •     Interior surroundings crafted from the finest materials are unusually open and airy for a sports car, the light and glass akin to an aeroplane cockpit. The leather is sourced from the Litano range produced by the Royal Hulshof Dutch Tanneries in Lichtenvoorde. Hulshof uses only West European first choice bull hides and a special tanning process that produces the beautifully rich colour palette.
  •     The red cover on the ignition switch evokes the spirit of starting an aeroplane, as does the dashboard that lights up as part of the 'pre-flight check.' The dashboard is shown with a turned aluminium fascia, similar to those seen on Spykers of the 1920s.
  •     Pressing the engine start button brings to life a powerful V6 engine that delivers 375+ bhp.
  •     The trademark exposed gear change mechanism was inspired by early aircraft controls from Spyker's aviation heritage.

Technical Specifications

    Body: All carbon fibre
    Chassis: All aluminium platform

    Engine
        Engine mount position: rear-mid
        Engine orientation: transverse mounted V6

    Drivetrain
        Drivetrain type: RWD
        Transmission: 6-spd automatic

    Dimensions
        Overall length: 4347 mm
        Wheelbase: 2500 mm
        Kerb weight: < 1400 kg

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Friday, April 26, 2013

Smart fortwo electric drive, 2013

 
 
 
 
 
  • Smart fortwo electric drive, 2013

12 June 2012 - this date marks the starting signal for the first real alternative to the usual refuelling stops. With the launch of the new smart fortwo electric drive, in future smart customers can enjoy even more fun at the wheel of an attractively priced vehicle that has the familiar compact dimensions - as a coupé or a cabriolet. The most important feature distinguishing it from its siblings with conventional engines is the fact that it does not produce any emissions on the road. With its 55kW electric motor the smart fortwo electric drive accelerates from 0-60 km/h in 4.8 seconds, and with a maximum speed of 125 km/h driving pleasure is also guaranteed on urban motorways. The 17.6 kWh battery enables the urban two-seater to travel approximately 145 kilometres in city traffic without producing any local emissions. The new sale&care model makes opting into electric mobility particularly attractive: it offers customers an opportunity to buy, finance or lease the vehicle at an attractive price and to rent the battery for a monthly fee.

Extensive experience and customer feedback from various electric mobility projects were integrated in the further development of the smart fortwo electric drive. Ever since 1998 the smart has been revolutionising urban mobility like no vehicle before it. Compact, agile, environmentally friendly and stylish - it has evolved from a practical small car to a lifestyle product and has long become a familiar sight on the roads of cities around the world.

From the summer the smart fortwo electric drive will start winning wide-ranging buyers in more than 30 international countries for its innovative and forward-looking drive concept.

The new model is fitted with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor - the first product from the EM-motive joint venture founded together with Bosch - ensuring that it is as agile and lively as ever.

With torque of 130 Newton metres it accelerates powerfully from 0 to 60 km/h in 4.8 seconds, and thanks to better acceleration in the higher speed range it can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds as it has much more tractive power than its predecessor.

This makes for speedy driving and overtaking. The battery-electric two-seater smart fortwo now has a higher top speed of 125 km/h, as well. That is putting it on a par with the combustion-engined smart - also on the motorway.

A battery from the joint venture "Deutsche ACCUmotive" with Evonik Industries is fitted in the new smart fortwo electric drive for the first time. With capacity of 17.6 kWh the lithium-ion battery enables 145 kilometres of pollutant-free driving fun. In addition to the higher battery capacity clear improvements have been made to the efficiency of the drive system, resulting in a greater range. When completely empty it takes a maximum of seven hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station on the electricity systems of most countries i.e. overnight.

Quick charging in less than one hour
For the feasibility of quick charging it is possible to optionally equip the car with a quick-charging function. The 22 kW on-board charger enables a completely empty battery to be fully charged in less than an hour. A power cable is needed for this which is used to connect the vehicle to a public quick-charging station or a "wallbox" at home or work.

smart will offer this in future in cooperation with SPX, one of the world's leading suppliers of technology solutions in the fields of energy and automotive as a global installation and service partner, and with KEBA, a specialist for innovative E-charging infrastructure and wallboxes. If a customer decides to install a wallbox at home or work the smart Sales department will contact SPX. SPX will examine the local conditions, make an individual offer, and after a purchase decision, arrange for installation of the wallbox from KEBA. The wallbox is standardised and can of course also be used to charge vehicles from other manufacturers, for example if there is a mixed fleet.

There are two different types of wallbox: Basic and Connected. Both variants can be used for the quick charging of a single vehicle, or several vehicles one after the other. For private customers who want to charge up quickly and easily at home, a Basic wallbox is the perfect solution. It provides quick charging up to 22 kW and can be used both indoors and outdoors. The Connected wallbox also provides internet connectivity once linked up to the customer's web connection.

Furthermore, the Connectivity Plus system is an ideal solution for fleet customers. It enables up to 16 Connected wallboxes to be linked up to the "fleet server". This fleet server then enables several vehicles to be charged at once, all controlled intelligently and automatically. For example, certain vehicles can be given priority or a load limitation can be set. SmartCharging is also possible: economical charging and charging with green electricity (if the utility company provides the relevant data). This is financially advantageous to customers as they always have full control over their charging. The relevant charging cables are of course also available from SPX.

Attractive introduction to electric mobility
The smart fortwo electric drive makes opting into electric mobility very attractive with a new marketing concept. With the sale&care model customers can buy, lease or finance the vehicle at an attractive price and rent the battery. The rental costs include regular maintenance and, if necessary, quick battery replacement. smart also has a solution for all those who want to buy the entire vehicle.

In Germany the price for the vehicle with the sale&care model is €18,910 inc. VAT for the coupé and €22,000 for the cabrio. As well as this there is the standard battery rental charge of €65 including VAT in all sale&care markets. In view of the low operating costs electric driving is therefore a very attractive form of individual mobility.

National promotion programmes in many countries and various mobility benefits such as the use of special lanes or exemption from city congestion charges are further advantages of electric driving. With the attractive sale&care package and the significant technological advancement of the smart fortwo electric drive smart offers its customers affordable driving pleasure in daily use based on the environmentally friendly drive.

smart also has an attractive offer for customers who want to buy or lease the complete vehicle with the battery: including VAT the new smart fortwo electric drive costs €23,680 as a coupé and €26,770 as a cabrio.

Since the International Motor Show in Frankfurt anyone interested has been able to register on www.smart.com with no obligation to receive all the latest news on the new electric smart. In some markets, including Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the UK customers have been able to make advance reservations for a vehicle online - and these customers will be among the first owners of the new smart fortwo electric drive. A four-figure number of reservations has already been received - and a five-figure number of people have even registered on the smart website.

Fill up on renewable energies
Electric vehicles cut down greenhouse gases on a sustained basis, especially when they are powered by renewably generated electricity. This is why the company is supplying as much additional energy generated by wind power to the German grid as is needed to run all new electric smarts sold in Germany - thus supporting the ambitious climate targets of the EU. The energy needed for this is supplied by a new wind power plant on the A9 motorway, which Daimler has acquired in order to supply additional power generated from a completely renewable source to the grid on time for the launch of the new electric smart. Within the framework of this initiative Daimler is deliberately not taking up support measures from the German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). With nominal output of 2.3 megawatts per year the onshore wind energy plant type Enercon E82 will generate enough green electricity to run the approximately 2,500 smart fortwo electric drives initially sold in Germany. Any power required over and above this could also be covered with electricity from wind power, without EEG funding.

A fresh green and even more colours
With a larger radiator grille featuring the electric drive logo, stylish LED daytime driving lights below the headlamps, wider door sills and several modifications to the rear the new model is much more dynamic than its predecessor. The new E-smart comes in all smart colours and colour combinations that are also available for the diesel and petrol models.

The new colour fresh green is a particularly visible manifestation of electric driving fun. The electric drive design package comprises crystal white bodypanels and white alloy rims, tridion cell and mirror caps painted in electric green and numerous green accents in the interior, which form an attractive contrast to the black seats.

Those looking to give their vehicle an even more exclusive touch can choose from the range of options offered by smart BRABUS tailor made - with an even greater choice of colours and materials.

Perfectly equipped
As to be expected the new smart fortwo electric drive features extensive equipment. A highlight is the fully automatic air conditioning with pollen filter and pre-entry climate control. When it is connected to the power supply the vehicle can be automatically pre-cooled or pre-heated as required for a programmed departure time. A new feature is the possibility to start the pre-entry climate control via the internet or a smartphone at any time. The standard equipment furthermore includes electric windows, a leather steering wheel, leather gear knob, the audio system basic, power steering, 9-spoke alloy wheels and a luggage compartment cover. In addition to the standard solid roof, a glass roof and a cabrio version are available. The trip computer - also a standard feature in the electric smart - shows journey information including the remaining range. And like the predecessor model the two round instruments show the battery state-of-charge and the energy used and recuperated. In addition, the smart fortwo electric drive can be equipped with a navigation system and a 3-spoke leather steering wheel.

Clever app for infotainment with smartphones
smart is the first car brand to develop its own drive app for the iPhone®. Together with the smart kit and cradle for the iPhone® the cult phone becomes a multimedia trip computer that is optimised for the smart fortwo in terms of function and design. The smart drive app for the iPhone has all the important features needed whilst driving: phone calls via hands-free system, your own extensive music collection, internet radio and a clever navigation system with a special smart touch. There are also smart extras - for example the Car Finder that will guide you back to wherever you parked your car.

The new smart drive app for the iPhone is simple to operate, for example thanks to extra-large buttons. The new app therefore makes urban mobility even easier and more fun - the declared objective of the smart philosophy.

Two new elements developed by smart make the two-seater car and the iPhone a perfect team:
    The smart cradle for the iPhone with control unit and microphone serves as a stylish and functional holder. It charges the iPhone and also functions as a hands-free system using the loudspeakers of the smart radio for sound output and automatically muting it when phone calls are made
    The smart drive app for the iPhone is the world's first drive app on the market to be developed by a car brand. It combines all the features needed on the road in a single app. All the functions are extremely easy to use thanks to extra-large buttons and extra-large letters

Always know how far you can go: connected services

The smart drive app for the iPhone can be supplemented with further functions tailored to the smart fortwo electric drive. However, the current state-of-charge or the SmartCharging charge configuration can also be conveniently controlled and managed via a web portal from a home computer or with any modern smartphone.

The Vehicle Homepage offers every smart fortwo electric drive customer a chance to visualise the range on an interactive map with 3D views.

All the destinations that can be reached with the current battery charge are displayed. The public charging stations within reach can also be seen at a glance. If a desired destination is further away than the available range the Vehicle Homepage can be used to quickly check how long the battery still needs to be charged for to reach it. Among other factors, the depiction of the range considers the topography and the route profile. The intuitive graphic depiction that can be combined with 3D views and satellite images is an attractive feature. Furthermore, the vehicle itself can also become active: information on the charge status and range can be sent by email or Twitter messages for example. The driver is notified as soon as the desired range can be reached with the current charge.

Intelligent charging
The smart fortwo electric drive can be connected to the internet at home via a standard powerline adapter (Homeplug AV) for SmartCharging. After entering the planned departure time in the vehicle or the web portal the vehicle will be fully charged in a battery-saving and economical way. The smart fortwo electric drive also makes charging at public stations easy. With Plug&Charge the vehicle identifies itself as soon as it is plugged into a compatible charging point and the charging process is settled automatically.

"Electric history at smart"
With the start of the first electrically driven test fleet in 2007 in London smart also took on a pioneering role in the area of electric mobility when 100 smart fortwo electric drives took to the roads of the British capital - with great success.

With the introduction of the second generation in 2009 the smart fortwo electric drive was ready to take to the roads. The electrically driven avant-gardiste from Stuttgart was introduced in 18 markets. The objective was to gather as much experience as possible about how customers use and charge electric vehicles. The huge demand exceeded all expectations. Instead of the planned 1000 vehicles more than 2000 smart fortwo electric drives were produced in Hambach. This means that smart has one of the largest fleets of electrically driven vehicles on the roads worldwide and a trove of customer experience and wishes that have been input in the new smart fortwo electric drive.

A higher top speed and better acceleration at speeds above 60 km/h were right at the top of the customers' list of priorities. However, contrary to prevailing opinion the range wasn't the crucial point from the perspective of the test customers. The vast majority of users confirmed the results of surveys which say that people drive approximately 30 to 40 kilometres per day on average in urban areas and they expressed great satisfaction with the range of their smart.

Technical specifications
    Electric motor: Magneto-electric synchronous motor from EM-motive
    Continuous output: 35 kW
    Maximum output: 55 kW
    Max. torque: 130 Nm
    Battery: Lithium-ion battery from Deutsche ACCUmotive
    Battery capacity: 17.6 kWh
    Maximum speed: > 120 km/h
    Acceleration
        0-60 km/h: 4.8 s
        0-100 km/h: 11.5 s
    Range (NEDC): 145 km
    Charging time (0-100%)
        domestic socket: 7h (without wallbox), 6h (with wallbox)
        400V: Less than 1h
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Thursday, April 25, 2013

Skoda Citigo 5-door, 2013

 
 
 
 
  •  Skoda Citigo 5-door, 2013

Å koda presented the new Citigo 5-door subcompact. Following a successful debut in its Czech home market, Å koda will be introducing its seventh and most recent model line in other European markets this spring as both a 3- and a 5-door version. This 3.56 metre long car is Å koda's entry into the fast-growing subcompact segment. The Citigo stands for a perfect price-value ratio and offers a maximum of space, clever features, high safety, perfect handling and an attractive design. The Å koda Citigo is produced in Bratislava.

Compact and roomy
At 3.56 metres long, 1.65 metres wide and 1.48 metres high, the Citigo ranks among the most compact and at the same time among the roomiest cars in its segment. The Citigo is to conquer new customer groups for Å koda especially in Europe. Says CEO Vahland: "The Citigo puts us on the map in a car segment that today represents almost 10 percent of global car sales. Europe accounts for one quarter of these sales. In the years to come, demand for cars with low fuel consumption, an attractive price and low operating costs will grow sharply. This means the Citigo is coming at just the right time and will win over many customers for Å koda, especially in Europe."

A subcompact for all generations
In marketing the Citigo, Å koda is targeting young drivers just as much as families looking for a second car or so-called "best agers." "Our new model is a subcompact that transcends generations and caters to individuals that are highly cost-conscious and have a high demand for quality, practicality, design and safety," Winfried Vahland stresses. It is exactly the combination of these qualities that the Å koda Citigo embodies perfectly. Three trim lines are available: Active, Ambition and Elegance.

Clever all around
True to the "City Clever" motto, the car is an allrounder made for the city. It handles easily and offers superior visibility. At the same time, the car offers Å koda's typical interior values, providing a high level of "Value for Money". No competitor from outside Volkswagen Group has a bigger boot volume (251 litres) and interior width (1.36 metres). Folding down the back seat rest increases luggage volume to 959 litres. Thanks to a 2.42 metre wheelbase, four can sit in comfort even on long trips. In the three-door version, an Easy Entry function facilitates access to the rear seats.

Quite a character
This city runabout's design shows a character typical of the brand. The first look will tell you: her comes a real Å koda. The Citigo is the first model ever to bear the brand's new logo. Å koda's new crest, set into the moulded front edge of the bonnet and onto the car's rear has been reduced to bare essentials and is executed in chrome and black. The winged arrow is contoured more precisely than hitherto and comes in chrome where it used to be green. The round emblem carrying the arrow at its centre is black with an enclosing chrome ring. The laurel wreath and Å koda lettering have been dropped from the new logo.

The chrome-framed slat grille and the precisely moulded headlights combine with the new logo to create the typical Å koda face. The designers also outdid themselves in the lateral body layout, which impresses with its clear contours and large glass surfaces. The brand's typical C-shape in the taillights and the logo make the Citigo as unmistakable from the rear as it is from the front.

Simply Clever
The clean and clear layout of the cabin and the bicolour dashboard in the higher-value trim lines create a sense of wellbeing on board the car. A number of ingenious features make the Citigo a real "simply clever car" à la Škoda. One expression of this are the many storage options, cup and multimedia holders and the storage nets on the sides of the front seats' back rests. Other clever solutions include the bag hook integrated into the glove compartment opening mechanism or the photo holder on the dashboard. A convenient range of nets permits safe transport of objects in the boot.

Safety writ large
The Å koda Citigo's designers placed great emphasis on safety. As a result, the Citigo - together with the Volkswagen up! and the Seat Mii - was awarded the top score of five stars in the Euro NCAP crash test. For the first time in a Å koda, head-and-thorax airbags are available for the driver and front seat passenger. This and other features amount to an exemplary passive-safety package. The new "City Safe Drive" braking assistant is an innovation and a safety highlight. This optional city emergency braking function activates itself at speeds below 30 kph. A laser sensor will detect an impending crash. Depending on speed and traffic situation, the subsequent automatic brake actuation can reduce the severity of an impact or even prevent them altogether. This significantly lowers the risk of inner-city rear-end crashes. Together with the VW up! and the Seat Mii, the Å koda Citigo is the only car in the subcompact segment so far to offer this emergency braking function.

Efficient engines
Two new three-cylinder petrol engine in two power variants has been available in the Citigo from its launch: the engine has a displacement of 1.0 litre (999 cu cm) and output 44 kW/60 hp or 55 kW/75 hp. In Green tec, the most efficient variant, average fuel consumption is 4.1 l/100 km. CO2 emissions are 96 g/km. Engines and transmissions have been designed for optimum fuel efficiency in the city and in an urban environment. They will reach their operating temperature quickly even during short trips and will thus operate extremely economically.

Despite their small displacement, the engines achieve a high torque at a low noise level. Based on current plans, a gas-powered engine will be available besides the petrol engines. In this version CO2 emissions will be 79 g/km. In addition, an automated transmission will complement the manual gearbox before year 2012 is out, further improving the Citigo's efficiency.

Distinctive front end
Innovative and fresh, the Citigo immediately conveys the message: I'm with the Å koda family! The car's appearance displays all the elements of Å koda's new design.

Å koda's redesigned logo rests prominently in the bonnet's moulded front edge. Clear and precise, the winged arrow is now executed in chrome on a black-matte base. The Å koda logo rests atop the distinctive grille, whose 19 slats are enclosed by a finely drawn chrome frame. Expressive headlights flanking the grille create the unmistakable face of the car, which endows the front of the Å koda Citigo with additional optical width.

The new Å koda Citigo's headlights give the car a pleasant appearance. Chamfers in the cover glass create optical vibrancy and a precise grinding of the glass. The reflectors in the main headlights, blinkers and daytime running lights all contrast with their shiny black cover plates, thus creating three-dimensionality and optical depth. The front bumper displays a clear and orderly layout. The air intake with its vertical slats and integrated horizontal bar complete the new Citigo's distinctive appearance, as do the circular foglights with their black frames.

Designers went all out in creating the car's side section. The car's lateral contour shows a 1 ½ box design with a short engine area and generous passenger space, one of Å koda's basic brand values. The Citigo impresses with its cleanly modelled surfaces, precisely drawn lines, clear contours and ample side windows. A slightly rising beltline conveys dynamism without obstructing rear seat passengers' visibility. The wheelhouses' vigorous arching and ample lateral surfaces makes the wheels appear larger and underlines the car's solid appearance.

A long wheelbase and minimal overhangs at the front and at the rear make for good proportions and perfect handling in the city. The Å koda Citigo may be ordered as a 3-door or as a 5-door model. In the three-door version, the doors will open to circa 130 cm at an angle of about 80 degrees, permitting easy entry and exit.

The Citigo's rear section displays an equally clear and distinctive layout. The new Å koda logo is positioned centrally on the ample tailgate's raised area. The tailgate's contours run on into the taillights, whose brilliant and three-dimensional execution is typical of Å koda, as is the C-design with a finely drawn reflector band creating unmistakable recognisability both by day and by night. Slender and vertical, the taillights make room for the wide tailgate, which is handsomely framed by the pillars on either side and by the bumper. A clearly designed bumper unit with an integrated numberplate holder underscores the optical width of the car's rear thanks to its horizontal lines, rounding off the Å koda Citigo's solid and high-quality appearance.

Just as compelling is the new subcompact's interior. The first impression on boarding is a surprise at a space that is generous and airy for its class. The cockpit shows a horizontal layout, clearly conveying optical width. Depending on the trimline chosen - Active, Ambition or Elegance - the cockpit is available in interesting colour combination. At the centre of the driver's attention is a steering wheel with lots of grip displaying the new Å koda logo and a combination instrument in a compact design. For good ergonomics, the control unit for the air conditioning, radio and other functions has been placed in the middle of the dashboard. Atop it sits a wide flat-jet nozzle providing draft-free ventilation inside the car. Round jets that can be completely shut have been positioned near the pillars.

The seats with their integrated headrests have been ergonomically designed and provide optimum lateral hold. A large number of combinations of colours and materials convey quality and lots of wellbeing. Numerous storage compartments in the centre console, the glove box and the doors offer enormous storage space and deliver on the Citigo's functional promise. A multitude of Å koda-typical "Simply clever" solutions such as the bag hook on the glove compartments opening handle, the photo holder on the dashboard or the optional "Move&Fun" navigation system will turn every trip in this car into a special experience.

The Å koda Citigo proves its enormous space offering not just to the driver and the front seat passenger, but also to rear seat occupants. Comfortable seating elements can be tilted to permit an enormous increase in boot capacity.

The new Å koda Citigo is a completely new car with a clear and attractive design, perfect functionality and an excellent price-to-value ratio which is bound to set new benchmarks. Here is a car with extremely compact dimension representing a milestone in the ultracompact segment regarding precision and space economy.

Generous space, perfect comfort on board
One of the longest wheelbases in its segment - engines positioned far out front - newly designed axles: the Å koda Citigo's engineers pulled out all the stops to make optimum use of space in the car down to the last millimetre. It's a success: occupants ride with space to spare, in comfort with no hint of tightness. The new Citigo demonstrates that even a subcompact can be roomy on the inside.

The car's interior width is another best in segment. At 1.36 metres, it is way above what most competitors have to offer and makes for good freedom of movement. Headroom numbers in the back also leave nothing to be desired.

The three-door version's "Easy Entry" function enables effortless access to the rear seat. This involves pushing front seats forward and simultaneously folding down its backrest with just one motion of the hand so that rear-seat occupants can sit down easily.

Ergonomic aspects impress with their excellent design, as does seating comfort. Seating position is not too low, and sufficient thigh support in conjunction with knee room creates a comfort level not generally associated with a subcompact. In this connection, designers paid special attention to the positioning of the steering wheel column including the steering wheel itself

At 251 litres, the Citigo's boot space is the largest in its class. The boot also impresses with its height: it will hold objects up to 58 cm high. The boot lid will open to 185 cm. On folding down the rear seat backrest, boot volume increases to 959 litres (Å koda Citigo 5-door). In addition, the resulting loading surface is almost level, permitting to transport objects up to 2 metres long in the Citigo. Other practical items include four hooks in the boot for bags or other objects. In addition, a double storage net attachment suitable for holding objects up to 3 kg in weight in space is available for the boot.

Practical through and through
The Å koda Citigo is a practical car for the city. This is thanks to its agility and easy handling, but also to many simple and practical solutions in its interior. First and foremost, practicality means enough storage space, but without wasting even a millimetre. There are storage areas in the centre console and in the glove compartment. Bottle (up to 1.0 litre) and cup holders are also available. An extremely practical and unique detail is the bag hook attached to the glove compartment. A document and photo holder on the dashboard is also bound to come in handy. A multimedia holder is for storing a mobile telephone, an iPod and other mobile little helpers. The Citigo's "storage net programme" offers practical options for holding small objects on sides of the boot. List of simply clever solutions includes also storage pocket on front seats.

Small car - big on safety
Modern small cars today do not compromise on safety. The Citigo boasts exemplary active and passive safety features, which Euro NCAP, the consumer protection organisation, awarded a top rating of five stars only a few weeks ago. An innovation and a highlight in the subcompact segment at the same time is the "City Safe Drive" automatic braking assistant. This optional automatic emergency braking function helps prevent urban accidents. This assistant automatically activates itself at speeds of 5 to 30 kph. In the first stage, a laser sensor integrated into the windshield will scan the space 10 metres ahead of the Citigo. If an impending collision is detected, the braking system will be conditioned in the second stage if the driver shows no reaction, with the hydraulic braking assistant being switched to increased sensitivity. Depending on the situation, the third stage involves an automatic emergency braking action through to standstill or support for the driver to achieve maximum braking deceleration if the driver himself does not brake hard enough. In case of extreme collision danger, deceleration will reach 10 m/s2. Depending on speed and the actual traffic situation, "City Safe Drive" can reduce an accident's severity or prevent impact altogether.

In all this, a driver will retain full control and responsibility for the vehicle at all times. A driver can deactivate the system's function at any time by accelerating, steering or pressing the clutch pedal. He may also choose to switch the function off by pressing a button. In this case, a symbol with the wording "off" will indicate deactivation. This indication will be visible for 5 seconds, reappearing whenever the car is in motion within the 5 to 30 kph speed band. In case of malfunction, the symbol will flash slowly and continuously.

Mobile information and navigation with "Move&Fun"
The Å koda Citigo also proves clever when it comes to modern multifunction systems. Available for the first time ever in a Å koda is the optional "Move&Fun" mobile multifunctional infotainment system. "Move&Fun" is about navigation, telephone, information and entertainment. The system was developed in cooperation with Navigon, the German navigation system specialists.

The system will not just show the right way while driving, it can also be carried outside the car. In addition, important vehicle data such as onboard computer information or parking sensor signals are displayed via the mobile system's touch screen. To fix "Move&Fun," simply click into place in its sturdy holder located on the middle console. This will connect the system to the car's electronics.

The "car" menu area holds all of the onboard computer's relevant information regarding range, consumption data, trip time and speed. An instrument panel that is generated digitally but features analogue displays shows engine speed, engine oil temperature and coolant temperature. In addition, status displays show whether all doors are closed.

The "navigation" menu area contains the navigation system. It includes maps for a total of 37 countries. In addition, it will display so-called "Points of Interest" (PoI): up to 500 personal favourites, in full detail and in in 3D. Also, "Move&Fun" can point out 2 million landmarks. Other useful features include a search function for parking lots and parking garages, import of Outlook addresses or a "vehicle log".

In cars fitted with the "Funky" Radio-CD system, the "Media" menu area allows operation of Radio and CD or MP3 player via "Move&Fun" as well. Select stations or tracks and play them on the radio, from a micro SD card readers (for cards with up to 32 Gigabyte) or via the "Funky"'s CD/MP3 player. Or play music from your iPod or iPhone via Bluetooth. Photos can be displayed from an SD card. In addition, the driver or front seat passenger can still actuate radio functions on the radio itself. Thus, when "Move&Fun" is being used for navigation, tracks or volume can still be selected and adjusted on the radio without affecting the on-screen display.

Finally, the telephone menu area: At the core is the hands-free function, which connects to a Bluetooth-enabled telephone to allow safe and legal conversations. The touchscreen will display a keypad and a connected telephone's entire phonebook as well as numbers dialled last. Voice operation is also possible.
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Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Seat Ibiza, 2013

 
 
 
 
  • Seat Ibiza, 2013

The next generation of the successful Spanish model is here - the new SEAT Ibiza captures the heart with its young, emotional design and fun-to-drive zest, and convinces the head with its innovative technologies and further improved functionality and quality. Plus, the new line-up offers enormous breadth to meet every individual demand - from the compact and sporty three-door SEAT Ibiza SC, to the dynamic and universal five-door SEAT Ibiza, to the elegantly practical SEAT Ibiza ST estate car. When it comes to engines, the line-up extends from the extremely efficient Ibiza E-Ecomotive with 89 grams of CO2/km to the exceptionally sporty SEAT Ibiza FR with 110 kW (150 hp). There are two strengths in particular that are common to all versions - a very high standard of quality and outstanding value for money. Market launch of the new SEAT Ibiza is scheduled for spring 2012.

The SEAT Ibiza is one of the best-selling models in its segment throughout Europe and the average age of its buyers is the youngest in its market segment. Design has long been one of the Ibiza's foremost strengths - named as the most important reason for purchase by customers, and to the same degree across all three body variants. This trend is set to continue in future - with its modern, fresh and optimistic look, the new Ibiza marks a further significant development of the SEAT design identity and prepares the way for future models.

Beneath its striking design, the new SEAT Ibiza offers an impressive array of innovative technologies. The latest-generation state-of-the-art TDI and TSI power units, the DSG transmissions and the start/stop system combine dynamics with exceptional efficiency and guarantee SEAT's signature driving fun.

The bodyshell - three variants, one for every requirement
With its three bodyshell variants, the new SEAT Ibiza fits perfectly into every lifestyle. The five-door Ibiza, the three-door Ibiza SC and the Ibiza ST estate are not only design masterpieces, they also offer an interior that is exceptionally spacious and flexible for this class of vehicle.

The new Ibiza - universal five-door
On its market launch in 2008, the SEAT Ibiza was the first model on the all-new Volkswagen Group platform developed for this segment. This means not only more stability and comfort, but also an excellent standard of safety. The five-door with its sporty, eye-catching design comes with a luggage capacity of 292 litres. With such a generous amount of space, the Ibiza is ideally equipped for the practical challenges of everyday life.

The new Ibiza SC - sports coupé with three doors
At SEAT, sporting character is anchored firmly in the brand philosophy. With the three-door Ibiza SC, the company offers a model with a distinctly dynamic design and incredibly neat dimensions (4,043 millimetres long and just 1,428 millimetres high). Yet, behind the rear bench is room for 284 litres of luggage. The sports coupé boasts exceptionally agile handling characteristics, without making any compromises in comfort.

The new Ibiza ST - the most beautiful estate in its class
With its harmonious and highly elegant estate bodyshell, the SEAT Ibiza ST offers a wide range of possibilities for everyday and leisure use. The Ibiza ST offers an extremely high level of functionality, without making any concessions in its design. Despite its sporty lines, the storage capacity behind the rear bench is generous at 430 litres. There are two possibilities for increasing the load volume, both requiring just a few simple movements. The fast version is to fold the rear seat back onto the bench; as of the Style equipment line, the rear bench is split 60:40. Alternatively, you can first tilt the seat cushions upright; this delivers a virtually flat load surface, while the compact rear headrests fit into niches on the underside of the bench. Loaded to the roof, the SEAT Ibiza ST then offers up to 1,164 litres of storage space. There is even plenty of room for two bicycles with their front wheels removed. The maximum load capacity is 515 kilograms.

The standard equipment package for the Ibiza ST includes illumination and bag hooks in the luggage compartment. As an option, SEAT can deliver nets and additional box compartment under the tray for the load compartment. The accessories programme includes mounts and fixtures for the transport of skis, bicycles and roof boxes, as well as a tow hook. Depending on the engine version, the SEAT Ibiza ST can tow up to 1,200 kilograms (braked, on an 8 percent incline).

The new design - attention to detail
Sporty character and high product quality are written all over the new Ibiza's face - SEAT Design stands for technology and precision, as well as for youthful avant garde. The distinctive centrepiece is the trapezoidal grille featuring the SEAT logo. The flatter proportions and horizontal honeycomb structure of the grille and the lower air intake emphasize the width of the new SEAT Ibiza. The bumpers front and rear have been redesigned with a look that is particularly accentuated on the sporty Ibiza FR version. Standard equipment on the FR and available as an option on the other models are the large fog lamps with integrated cornering lights.

The sophisticated design of the headlamps bears testament to the enormous attention afforded by SEAT to the details. The edgy style of the lamps is a hallmark feature of the new SEAT design language, while being perfectly integrated into the SEAT Ibiza's sculptural form. The headlamps are available in two halogen versions or with optional bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. The latter trace the form of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, as do the optional LED rear lights (standard on the FR).

Clear and athletic character
From the side, the new Ibiza looks like a precisely hewn sculpture on wheels. The characteristic "Línea Dinámica" runs from the headlamps over the powerfully drawn wheel arches to the rear. A second, equally sharp character line runs across the muscular rear shoulders to the rear lamps. These powerful lines and the interplay of taut surfaces lend the Ibiza an athletic character - on both the three-door sports coupé and the universal five-door.

And even the functional estate car conveys an unmatched look of dynamism - without any restriction to its exceptional utility. The self-confident design of the rear end gives the SEAT Ibiza ST a very powerful sign-off. The roof-edge spoiler with integrated third brake light protrudes a little beyond the large rear windscreen. The rear lights emphasise the width of the vehicle with their horizontal, inward running design. At the spot where their extended lines meet is the large SEAT logo that - as on the five-door and SC, too - serves as the handle for the rear hatch.

The interior - high quality on the inside, too
The emotional power of the exterior design is also reflected in the interior of the new SEAT Ibiza - with a forceful but extremely minimalist and clearly structured cockpit design. The exceptional feeling of quality, the high precision of the workmanship, the wide choice of colours and materials ranging all the way to fine leather upholstery serve to underscore SEAT's standards. The level of detail can be sensed throughout the new Ibiza - in the new three-spoke steering wheel, in the new control unit for the Climatronic, in the new paint surfaces. The focus, however, always remains on functionality - the new instrument binnacle with its improved display is one example, the significantly larger glove compartment, another. With a generous storage volume of 10.7 litres, this storage unit now offers space for a lot more accessories and useful items than simply a pair of gloves.

The seats in the SEAT Ibiza are ergonomically formed, with a sporty, low-slung mounting position that can also be positioned higher, according to preference. The seats are generously padded with cold foam - they combine comfort with excellent body support and are outstanding over long distances. In the Ibiza FR, the exclusive sports seats have pronounced side cushions - providing the body with exceptionally firm lateral grip.

A further comfort factor is the steering wheel, which is adjustable for height and reach. The steering wheel and gearknob are optionally available clad in leather, a feature that is standard for the FR line. In the SEAT Ibiza FR the steering wheel has its own distinct and even sportier design.

All display and operating elements are conceived so that the driver can read and use them completely intuitively. Beneath the elegant cover of the redesigned instrument binnacle are the large dials for engine revs and road speed recessed into sporty tubular surrounds. The display between the dials shows fuel level, temperature and information from the on-board computer, which is standard equipment as of the Style line.

The new control unit for the air conditioning is located in the lower section of the centre console. A manually controlled air conditioning unit is optional with the Reference line. For the Style and FR lines, SEAT offers optionally the fully automatic Climatronic system, which shows the selected temperature in a large illuminated display.

Above the air conditioning control is the operating unit for the audio system, which also incorporates an aux-in connection. A USB interface and Bluetooth hands-free set-up are among the options.

The tautly executed dashboard, circular air vents, the three-spoke steering wheel and a short gearstick - the sporty, emotional character that distinguishes the exterior of the SEAT Ibiza carries through to the inside, too. All details of the interior display meticulous workmanship, recognizable in the quality of the materials. All buttons and switches have precise movements with clearly defined travel and a satisfying "click" operation; the dashboard surface is padded with soft foam.

In the Style and FR equipment lines, black leather upholstery is available as an option for the seats. For even more individualisation, there is an additional Design package.

The Drive - sporty and efficient engines
The engine line-up for the new SEAT Ibiza is broad-ranging and consists of new-generation three and four-cylinder power units. The range of petrol units extends from the incredibly economical 1.2 litre with 44 kW (60 hp) to the energetic 1.4 TSI with supercharger and turbocharger. 110 kW (150 hp) and the standard-fit DSG transmission catapult the SEAT Ibiza to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds, and onwards to an impressive top speed of 212 km/h. In the new Ibiza, this power unit is now also available for the ST estate version, which will wear the FR badge for the first time.

Particular efficiency is delivered by the Ibiza 1.2 TSI Ecomotive - the state-of-the-art power unit with 77 kW (105 hp) delivers refined drive with its maximum torque of 175 Newton metres from 1,550 r/min to 4100 r/min, yet sips on an average of just 4.9 litres/100 km - thanks also to the start/stop technology that is fitted as standard.

The TDI engines with common-rail injection are even more efficient when it comes to fuel consumption and emissions. The 1.2 TDI CR makes do with just 3.8 litres/100 km (Right Hand Drive: 3.9 litres/100 km) and achieves excellent CO2 emissions with 99 grams/km (Right Hand Drive: 102 grams/km). The 1.6 TDI CR, available with an output of either 66 kW (90 hp) or 77 kW (105 hp), also boasts exemplary fuel consumption at 4.2 litres/100 km (CO2 emissions - 109 grams/km) for the 66kW version and 4.7l and 24g/km for the 77kW.

The sporty pinnacle of the SEAT Ibiza diesel line-up is marked by the 2.0 TDI CR with 105 kW (143 hp) - shared beween the Ibiza SC FR and Ibiza five-door FR. No competitor in this segment offers such a powerful diesel, and no other masters the combination of performance and efficiency so effectively - its performance off-the-mark (0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds) and top speed of 210 km/h is balanced by an average fuel consumption of just 4.6 litres/100 km (CO2 emissions - 119 grams/km).

The Ibiza 1.2 TDI CR E-Ecomotive - particularly efficient
The efficiency highlight is the SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TDI CR E-Ecomotive with an average fuel consumption of just 3.4 litres/100 km. This equates to a first-class CO2 figure of 89 grams/km - in all bodyshell variants. Yet the compact hi-tech TDI delivers attractive performance with its 55 kW (75 hp) and its highly respectable torque of 180 Newton metres. The Ibiza 1.2 TDI CR E-Ecomotive is fitted as standard with start/stop technology that contributes to fuel saving without the driver having to make a conscious effort. When the car stops at a red light, for instance, and the driver goes into neutral, the start/stop system switches the engine off. As soon as the clutch pedal is depressed again, the engine immediately restarts automatically. The car is also equipped with a recuperation system that regenerates energy during every braking manoeuvre. This reduces the load on the engine and lowers fuel consumption.

The efficient Aerodynamic package on the Ibiza 1.2 TDI CR E-Ecomotive incorporates an enclosed radiator grille and a lower air intake that optimises airflow within the engine compartment. It also includes a 40 millimetre longer front spoiler, a spoiler on the rear hatch, special deflectors on the rear wheel arches and 15-inch wheels with closed covers. These modifications result in a drag coefficient of 0.30. A shift recommendation display and slightly increased tyre pressure (2.9 bar front, 2.7 bar rear) complete the efficiency savings package of the SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TDI CR E-Ecomotive.

Hi-tech transmissions and running gear
Just as modern as the engines are the transmissions in the new SEAT Ibiza. Alongside perfectly spaced ratios within the five and six-speed manual gearboxes, a number of engines are offered with DSG transmissions either as standard equipment or as an option. This dual-clutch transmission offers not only the comfort of an automatic, but also the benefit of compelling efficiency.

The running gear of the new Ibiza boasts an extremely sophisticated layout that has been carefully fine tuned, giving the compact model handling characteristics that are as sporty as they are safe. The ESP electronic stability program is standard equipment. Engines as of 77 kW/105 hp are combined with the XDS electronic differential lock. When the electronics recognise that there is too little load on the front inside wheel during cornering it applies a brief braking impulse. The system compensates in this way for understeer, making the handling neutral and delivering powerful traction - just like a mechanical differential lock. The well balanced interaction between the various electronic systems ensures safety even in difficult situations. A powerful brake system with ABS is another example.

The standard electrohydraulic power steering has a sporty and direct set-up. It delivers a precise feel, fast feedback and intuitive changes of direction. It has a variable output pump, which uses only the amount of energy necessary for steering - remaining inactive during straight-line driving. This solution offers major benefits compared with a purely hydraulic system that permanently circulates its oil volume.

Comprehensive equipment, perfect individualisation
The equipment lines of the SEAT Ibiza range have also been revised, independent of bodyshell form. The base model Reference makes a compelling argument with all the key comfort and safety features. Above it is the Style version, which comes with air conditioning as standard. The Ibiza FR sets particularly sporty accents with expressive design elements front and rear, alloy wheels and a leather-clad steering wheel. The FR version of the new Ibiza is available in all bodyshell variants with the 1.2 TSI (77 kW/105 hp) or 1.4 TSI (110 kW/150 hp) petrol engines, or the 1.6 TDI CR (77 kW/105 hp) diesel. Reserved exclusively for the Ibiza SC FR and Ibiza FR is the 2.0 TDI CR (105 kW/143 hp) diesel. And every SEAT Ibiza can be adapted perfectly to suit personal style and individual preferences with an extensive range of colours, options and accessories.

The Ibiza runs on redesigned wheels ranging from 14 to 17 inches in diameter. For the Reference line, these are 14-inch steel wheels with 175/70 tyres; for Style, there are 15-inch steel wheels with 185/60 tyres. The new Ibiza FR runs on 16-inch alloy wheels clad in 215/45 tyres. SEAT offers sophisticated alloy wheel designs as options for all equipment versions - 15-inch for Reference, 16-inch for Style and, for the FR, even a 17-inch model. All tyres have been optimised for rolling resistance without compromising on comfort, safety and handling characteristics.

The new SEAT Ibiza is built for all global markets entirely at the state-of-the-art SEAT plant in Martorell near Barcelona. The new generation of the SEAT Ibiza will also be introduced in China in 2012. SEAT's combination of young, dynamic design-driven attributes with state-of-the-art technology, quality and precision - as epitomised by the Ibiza - will be well appreciated by discerning Chinese car-buyers.

In Europe, the extremely sporty Cupra will follow later in 2012 - superior performance and thrilling dynamics are guaranteed.
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Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Scion iQ, 2012

 
 
 
 
  • Scion iQ, 2012

Scion announced that its 2012 iQ premium micro-subcompact will begin arriving in dealerships October 2011. The Scion iQ is only 10 feet long yet seats four people, making it the world's smallest four-seater.

Meeting the needs of a new trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the iQ succeeds at taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package. Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the iQ is a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that drivers expect from a car twice its size.

Intelligent Design, Not Sacrifice
Instead of sacrificing features or comfort to reduce its footprint, the iQ relies on intelligent design. Six engineering innovations are responsible for the iQ's ability to be small in size, but large in capability. A compact front-mounted differential, high-mount steering rack with electronic power-steering, and a compact air-conditioning unit all amount to significant decreases in front-end length. In addition, the iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang. Slim-back front seats optimize rear legroom, while the "3+1" offset seating arrangement allows one adult to sit behind the front passenger and a child or small package behind the driver.

Driving Performance of a Larger Car
With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design - consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a compact torsion beam rear suspension - the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic. In addition, its overall length of only 120.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs allows the Scion iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario. Although short in length, the iQ has a wide stance at 66.1-inches, giving it a confident stance that handles like a much larger car.

Smooth Drivetrain and Better Fuel Efficiency
The 2012 Scion iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 94 horsepower and 89 lb.-ft of torque. It features the latest dual VVT-i, which allows the engine to be efficient, providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.

The engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency. The iQ is rated an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II) and achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating of 37 miles per gallon, comparable to similar vehicles of its size.

Small in Size but Big on Safety
In order to be considered a premium micro-subcompact, the Scion iQ comes standard with safety features that drivers expect and demand. The iQ is packed with an industry leading 11 standard airbags, including the world's first rear window airbag. Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seatmounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver- and front-passenger seat-cushion airbags.

All iQs will come standard with the Star Safety System, which includes antilock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRAC), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Smart Stop Technology brake-override. A tire-pressure monitoring system is also standard equipment.

Iconic Styling
The iQ's profile, defined by a strong and high beltline, glides from the large, stout headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wraps around the rear, emphasizing the iQ's geometric shape. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design and give it a premium look.

The rear emphasizes the vehicle's modern style. Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the bumper's rear diffuser-like accent, creating a substantial presence.

The iQ will be available in seven exterior colors, including Blizzard Pearl, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Hot Lava, Pacific Blue Metallic and Black Currant Metallic.

High-Tech Interior
The iQ's functional "3+1" seating equates to the world's smallest four-passenger vehicle. The four-seat configuration is made possible because the driver and frontpassenger seats are slightly off set.

The rear seats are extremely versatile, featuring a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough storage to accommodate large suitcases. The iQ comes standard with a leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching, and features a flat bottom that provides additional thigh room. The steering wheel incorporates audio controls to manage the iQ's impressive sound system.

The Scion iQ comes standard with a Scion Drive Monitor that displays information like outside temperature, average MPG and an ECO-drive indicator that helps the driver maximize the iQ's fuel efficiency.

Impressive Audio with Standard Bluetooth® and HD Radio™ Technology
The iQ truly focuses on youth with its all-new standard AM/FM/CD/HD/USB 160-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system. Standard features for all 2012 Scions include Bluetooth connectivity, which allows both hands-free phone connection and streaming audio capability, and HD Radio technology. Streaming audio allows compatible phone or personal media devices to pair with the audio system and deliver music through the vehicles sound system. The audio system also features an organic electroluminescent (OEL) screen with a personalized welcome screen, iPod®/USB connectivity, Advanced Sound Retriever (ASR), and a subwoofer RCA output. The USB port and universal auxiliary (AUX) port are located on the center console, which allows users to listen to their portable music collection through the iQ's four Pioneer speakers.

The optional 200-watt maximum output Pioneer Premium audio system has the same features as the standard Pioneer audio, but it is enhanced with a 5.8-inch LCD touch-screen display, features iTunes® tagging, Pandora® internet radio connected through iPhone®, and six RCA outputs to add external amplifiers.

A Scion Navigation audio system is also available for urban drivers who would like the added convenience of easily finding their way around the city. The 200-watt SNS 200 system has all of the features of the standard and premium audio systems but it adds a navigation system and DVD player that are accessible through an easy-to-use seven-inch touch-screen LCD display. Navigation functions include a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system with comprehensive U.S. and Canada map coverage, plus guidance to millions of points of interest.

All three of the audio systems retain key Scion audio system features such as Scion Sound Processing® (SSP), where listeners can choose from three pre-set equalizer settings, satellite radio compatibility and MP3 and WMA capability. In addition, all units have the capability to adjust the volume control based on driving speed.

Pricing
The 2012 Scion iQ will begin arriving at dealerships on the west coast starting this October. The car will be available in other regions of the country beginning in early 2012. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Scion iQ is $15,265. The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $730 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.
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Monday, April 22, 2013

Renault Clio, 2013

 
 
 
 
  •  Renault Clio, 2013

Taking all its different generations into account, Renault Clio stands out as one of Renault's best-selling cars, as well as a market benchmark that has generated total sales of almost 12 million cars since 1990. Today, Renault has capitalised on the model's hallmark strengths and everyday versatility to deliver New Clio which seeks to win over customers thanks to its attractive blend of emotion and solid core strengths.

New Renault Clio also champions Renault's new design identity which places the emphasis on simplicity, warmth and sensuality.

Thanks to the availability of two systems, including the introduction of Renault R-Link, New Renault Clio breaks new ground in the world of automotive multimedia. it also delivers a high standard of comfort and safety equipment across the range and features an affordable personalisation programme on an unprecedented scale for Renault.

New Clio's versatility is founded on even more efficient road holding and enhanced travelling comfort, while power is provided by a choice of engines that show the way forward in terms of low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. the range includes a diesel powerplant which returns an unbeatable 3.2 litres/100km and 83g of CO2/km.

Meanwhile, New Renault Clio boasts a spacious cabin and a particularly big boot (300dm3). it is also rigorously designed, targets the highest possible level of active and passive safety (5 stars euro NCAP new rating) and is built to Renault's exacting quality standards.

Buoyed by the passion of the teams behind its design, New Clio, like its predecessor, continues to pack features that are normally only associated with larger cars and responds to market demands in a rational, yet emotional way.

The hatchback version of New Clio will go on sale in October 2012, while Clio Estate and Clio RS are scheduled to follow in the first quarter of 2013.

New Clio: an incarnation of Renault's new design identity
New Renault Clio is the first production model to give full expression to the Renault design renaissance inspired by Laurens van den Acker. the objective was to take the style and emotion of the brand's concept cars and carry them over to production models. New Clio meets that goal.

New Clio is instantly recognisable thanks to its front-end styling which features a prominent Renault logo, set bold and upright against a gloss black background, a signature first seen on the DeZir concept car. This frontal treatment is made more distinctive still by the headlights units, which include chrome details, and LED daytime running lights.

Available exclusively in five-door form, New Renault Clio has a sporty silhouette, accentuated by the integrated rear door handles concealed close to the rear quarter lights.

New Renault Clio will be available from launch in a choice of eight body colours, four of which are new. One of these is the distinctive launch colour, Flame Red, which takes its inspiration from the DeZir concept car.

Balanced, dynamic exterior proportions which express sportiness and confidence

Renault designers paid particularly careful attention to achieving balanced proportions for New Clio. Standing at 4,062mm in length, 1,732mm wide (excluding mirrors) and 1,448mm tall, it sits 45mm closer to the ground than its predecessor. Meanwhile, the front and rear track have been significantly widened (by between 34 and 36mm).

The lower ride-height ensures an assertive stance which is also beneficial to the car's aerodynamics. pronounced shoulder lines make New Renault Clio visually distinctive.

New Clio's coupé-like silhouette is accentuated by the integrated rear door handles concealed close to the rear quarter lights.

The ratio of wheel-size to vehicle-height has been fine-tuned for a more dynamic look. The large-diameter wheels are pushed 15mm outwards compared with Clio III in order to fill and finish flush with the wheel arches. A steeply raked windscreen adds to this dynamic feel, as does the improved glass / body ratio when New Clio is seen from the side (one-third and two-thirds respectively).

A modern, welcoming, occupant-friendly interior
The desire to combine beauty with functionality shows through clearly in numerous aspects of the interior design, from the dashboard in the shape of an aircraft wing, to the neat packaging of the multimedia systems in the centre console, the availability of stowage space throughout the cabin and careful attention to detail. The wide choice of colours and the use of chrome and gloss-black highlighting add to the warmth exuded by the cabin.

New Clio's range of easily distinguishable equipment levels and interior trims provides customers with a choice of inspiring, exciting and status-enhancing ambiences.

A choice of finishes, each with its own personality

Each of the New Clio range's equipment levels and trims has its own personality and ambience. The quality of the design and materials (e.g. colour inserts in the upholstery) is apparent even in the case of the extensively-equipped entry-level version (height- and reachadjustable steering wheel, 60/40-split folding rear bench seat, electric front windows and mirrors, plus keyless entry and ignition - all of which are standard across the range).

A lavishly-appointed, range-topping 'initiale paris' version will be added in 2013.

The exact specification and name of the different equipment levels will differ in some of New Clio's markets.

A personalisation programme covering core-range versions
Both inside and outside, New Clio was designed from the very beginning to take personalisation to a new level, from the steering wheel to the side protection mouldings. there are countless combinations and buyers will be able to select a specific character for their New Clio based around one of the three decor themes: 'trendy', 'sport' or 'elegant'. there is something for every budget, while personalisation features are fitted at the factory and available for the best-selling versions.

Original and "Unmistakably Renault"
The personalisation programme is structured around three distinct decor themes ('Elegant', 'Sport' and 'Trendy'), plus a selection of configurations based on a careful match between body colour and the dominant colour of the graphics and wheels.

The personalisation programme features:
    Five exterior decor packs to enhance different areas of the body with chrome or colour trims.
    Three different roof graphics.
    A choice of two colours for the 16-inch diamond-effect wheels and a choice of the 17-inch diamond-effect wheels.
    Seven interior decor packs which highlight different parts of the cabin with colours or motifs.
    Four interior ambience packs which co-ordinate the colour of the dashboard colour with that of the upholstery and door panels.

For the exterior:
    Exterior decoration elements are available in five different finishes: Chrome, black, Red, blue and Ivory. These finishes concern the grille, rear hatch and side protective moulding trims. In addition, the door mirror housings, rear bumper apron and side protective mouldings are picked out in gloss black lacquer.
    The roof graphics come in a choice of three different themes: 'Elegant', 'Sport' or 'Trendy'.
    The 16-inch diamond-effect 'Passion' wheels are available in a choice of two colours: Black or ivory.
    The 17-inch diamond-effect 'Drenalic' wheels will be available from November 2012 in a choice of our colours: Black, red, Blue or ivory.

For the interior:
Interior gloss colour touches are available in a choice of four colours (black, Red, blue, or Ivory) and echo the same three themes as the exterior graphics ('Elegant', 'Sport' and 'Trendy'). These highlights concern the steering wheel, door panels, gear lever surround and air vent surrounds and are directly incorporated using a technique known as insert moulding.

In the case of the Dynamique equipment level, customers can choose from four colours for the interior ambience (black, Red, blue or Havana). These colours apply to the dashboard trim strip and door panels, with a matching colour for the upholstery fabric. A finishing touch for each ambience comes in the form of colour co-ordinated carpet mats, available as accessories.

Purposely designed
The personalisation programme emphasises New Clio's assertive character. From the very start of the project, areas lending themselves to highlighting were incorporated into the model's design. Meanwhile, quality is assured by the fact that features are assembled at the factory.

Affordable and versatile
New Clio's personalisation programme means that made-to-measure looks are now available for a versatile five-door family car. The programme covers all the different engine variants and the best-selling versions, making it an affordable reality for the bulk of the model's customers.

Create and share your favourite Clio
Examples of Clios personalised with off-the-shelf configurations will be on display at dealerships from launch date to show customers the scope of possibilities opened up by the three different personalisation themes.

A dedicated website provides a taste of the range of personalisation possibilities available for New Clio. Web users can configure and view their ideal New Clio.

Packed with innovations
New Renault Clio is poised to shake up the market by bringing a number of technological innovations to a much wider audience. true to tradition, it also establishes a new benchmark for its class in terms of its performance and equipment packages. On the multimedia front, New Renault Clio packs an unprecedented double punch for this level of range, while audio quality has been boosted by the introduction of the Renault Bass reflex system, not to mention the availability of a reversing camera among the long list of equipment...

Advanced Bluetooth® radio from the entry level version
New Renault Clio features a range of Bluetooth® radios with audio streaming. Occupants can enjoy music stored on portable players and also benefit from hands-free use of their telephone. The radio has access to numbers stored on the driver's cell phone (depending on telephone), while the car is equipped with its own microphone. sound processing quality has been optimised and all radios come with a jack socket and a UsB port to charge and scroll through the menus of portable music players and cell phones.

Media Nav: essential multimedia functions
New Renault Clio proposes a choice of all-new multimedia solutions. built into the centre console, the Media Nav system provides all the basic multimedia functions and is standard equipment for two of the model's three equipment levels. Thanks to its seven-inch (18cm) touchscreen display, it is intuitive to use and, in addition to the radio, includes Bluetooth® connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free telephony. Portable music players can be connected via the fasciamounted USb port or jack socket. Media Nav also incorporates Nav N Go navigation with 2D and 3D (birdview) display. The UsB port and a dedicated web interface make it easy to update NAVTEQ maps.

Renault R-Link: an integrated tablet connected to the car and the Internet
Having been first on the market with notable innovations such as steering wheel-mounted remote control of the radio (1982, R11 Electronic) and in-car navigation (1994, Safrane); after bringing keyless entry to volume cars (in 2001) and GPS navigation with high-resolution graphics (Carminat TomTom®, priced at under €500 for Clio in 2009); and having launched on-board connected navigation in the shape of Carminat TomTom® LIVE for Clio, Renault continues its stream of innovations with Renault R-Link.

Available as an option for New Clio, Renault R-Link will certainly appeal to technically-minded motorists and provides a bridge between the vehicle and the connected world outside thanks to:
    A large seven-inch (18 cm) touchscreen display, intuitive voice commands and, a market first, a home page that can be personalised by the user for safe, simple access to key functions, without the driver having to take his or her eyes off the road.
    A menu with six icons which provide access to the six main functions: Navigation, Multimedia, Phone, Vehicle, Services and Applications, and System.
    TomTom® connected navigation including LIVE services: the market's best real-time traffic information service, minimisation of journey times and fuel consumption, plus Coyote Series alerts.
    A connection with the car's own electronic systems permits access to an advanced eco-driving function (Driving eco²) which analyses the driver's behaviour and provides advice to help reduce fuel consumption.
    Renault R-Link store, the automobile world's first ever evolving Application Store. Users can easily view or download a comprehensive selection of apps from their car or computer (via 'MyRenault').

Key functions and information available on the centre console
Renault R-Link's user-friendly seven-inch (18cm) touchscreen display forms an integral part of the modern centre console and provides a full range of multimedia functions (navigation, radio, bluetooth® telephony and audio-streaming, connectivity for portable music players, connected services, 'eco' driving, etc.) in one place for maximum comfort and enjoyment.

Renault R-Link ensures that information is available as and when it is needed, thereby avoiding the driver having to take his or her eyes off the road. Renault R-Link's touchscreen display permits fingertip control which doubles up with the steering wheel-mounted remote controls for the audio and telephone functions. Renault R-Link can also be controlled using intuitive voice commands to dictate the address of a destination for navigation purposes, for example, or to call up different functions using instructions such as 'telephone', 'apps', 'send an e-mail', etc. This facility makes use of the system even more practical and safer. The Text To Speech function (TTS) permits messages or RSS feeds to be read out loud.

R-Link apps cover a wide range of useful functions:
    Communication: e-mails, social networking, web navigation, etc.
    Journey optimisation: TomTom® LIVE services (HD Traffic®, speed control warnings [where authorised], TomTom Places, weather forecasts, Coyote Series alerts [where available], fuel prices, location of parking places, etc.).
    Practical information: personal phone numbers, Yellow Pages, hotels, restaurants, etc.
    Mobility: multi-mode journey planning, public transport.
    Budget guides: 'by-the-kilometre' insurance, Renault tips, etc.
    Vehicle information: monitoring of vehicle servicing, owner manual, etc.
    Entertainment and leisure: games, information, travel information, engine sound profile, personalisation, etc.
    Professional use: Fleet Managers will benefit from services for their business needs thanks to the vehicle connections

The apps developed for Renault R-Link are adapted for use by motorists, either by ensuring they are simple to use or by restricting access to certain functions while on the move. For example, functions which are overly interactive or long to use may only be used when the vehicle is at a standstill.

The catalogue of apps will cover a large spectrum of uses, extending from journey optimisation (TomTom LIVE services, fuel prices, location of parking places) and vehicle information (the monitoring of servicing, etc.), to budget guides ('by-the-kilometre' insurance, Renault tips, etc.), practical help (phone numbers, Yellow Pages, etc.), communications (e-mails, social networking, R-Tweet app) and entertainment/leisure (travel information, etc.) and emergency calls.

Renault's intention is to make R-Link store the benchmark automotive app store. To achieve this, it has favoured an open innovation strategy founded on input from major partners and development companies, as well as from start-ups which are brimming over with exciting ideas in the field of connected services and apps for automotive use. Partners in France include Pages Jaunes, La Poste, I-Dispo, Elle, balumpa, Michelin, Falk, Métro, Euronews, La Fourchette, Apila and NavX.

3D Sound by Arkamys®
All versions of New Renault Clio equipped with R-Link also benefit from 3D sound by Arkamys®. Thanks to special digital signal processing software, this system adds depth and texture to listening pleasure thanks to spatial positioning of the sound. Drivers can select where sound is to be directed in the cabin: for their ears only, for front occupants only or for all occupants.

Plus basic multimedia functions
To cater for the rapidly expanding use of portable music players, R-Link is equipped with bluetooth® audio and telephony connectivity, as well as a USB port and a jack input.

Bringing innovation to the widest possible audience
For enhanced safety and driving pleasure, nearly all the engines available for New Renault Clio incorporate hill start assist. When the driver lifts his or her foot from the brake pedal on a slope, the system - which is connected to the ESC - holds the vehicle stationary for two seconds, allowing the driver to pull away without the vehicle moving backwards. Every version of New Clio is equipped with esC, Asr traction control, ABs and emergency brake assist, as well as more direct variablerate electric power steering which ensures a level of agility that is particularly appreciable in built-up areas.

The standard equipment list also includes cruise control with speed limiter, while New Clio comes with 'motorway-mode' indicators, an extremely practical feature which produces three flashes of the indicator when preparing to overtake by lightly moving the indicator stalk.

Practical
New Renault Clio is an entirely keyless car. The key is replaced by an electronic card (depending on equipment level) which locks and unlocks the doors and permits the engine to be started without the driver removing the card from his or her pocket, bag, wallet, etc.

All versions of New Clio come with a height - and reach - adjustable steering wheel.

The long list of standard equipment is rounded off by electric, heated door mirrors, and electric front windows.

New Clio occupants benefit from plenty of practical stowage space located throughout the cabin:
    A tray in front of the gear lever which can hold items like a portable music player, mobile phone or portable CD player.
    A large seven-litre glove box capable of containing a 1.5-litre bottle of water.
    A 1.2-litre tray situated above the glove box.
    Two easy-to-access cup holders and additional stowage for small items between the seats at the foot of the centre console.
    Storage in the optional central armrest (almost one litre).
    Bins in each door designed to contain a 1.5-litre bottle of water.

A single switch allows all the windows of New Renault Clio to be demisted at the same time, while the climate control system has been improved to run even more quietly and more efficiently than that of Clio III.
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