Sunday, May 19, 2013

Mazda 5, 2013

 
 
 
 
  •  Mazda 5, 2013

A perked-up version of the Mazda's revolutionary compact MAV has arrived: The Mazda 5 is now even more stylish, more convenient and safer.

The model that brought dual sliding back doors to the world of compact vans can now be had in three new body colours - Zeal Red, Jet Black and Meteor Grey. On the inside, meanwhile, there is new seat trim along with the dashboard panel décor in a clean, sleek looking piano black finish.

The one of the world's safest and most driver-oriented vans, the upgraded Mazda 5 has also been given power folding side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals. And to make driving just a little easier, Mazda has added "lane change" turn signals, which are activated by simply tapping the turn signal lever and automatically shut off after blinking three times.

The tire repair kit, meanwhile, makes the Mazda 5 even lighter, which saves fuel. Newly available options include a rear parking camera and auto-dimming rear-view mirror, while a USB port, illuminated glovebox and muffler extension are all standard equipment.

Big inside and compact outside, the Mazda 5 features an award-winning design delivering class-leading aerodynamics for a smooth, quiet ride with extraordinary linear handling and stability. And that with all the practicality and superb comfort one could expect from Europe's most flexible C-MAV.
Read More

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Lincoln MKC Concept, 2013

 
 
 
 
 
  •  Lincoln MKC Concept, 2013

Lincoln introduced the MKC Concept, a vision of how Lincoln will enter the industry's fastest-growing small luxury utility segment, at the 2013 NAIAS.

With nearly 60 percent growth in 2012 and more than 200 percent in the last four years, the small luxury utility segment has far eclipsed all other luxury segments. The opportunity is a key next step in Lincoln's strategy to grow with four all-new vehicles targeted at the highest-growth segments over the next four years.

This segment growth is being driven at both ends of the demographic spectrum. Many new buyers are coming into affluence and purchasing their first luxury vehicle. Others are moving from larger vehicles to smaller ones to simplify their lives. This growth includes China, where Lincoln will begin selling in the second half of 2014 through independent dealers.

Creating 'Lincoln Experiences'
Lincoln is being reinvented in every way - from a complete new lineup of stunningly designed vehicles to how dealerships provide surprising personal client services and how drivers engage with their vehicles. The goal is to appeal to a new type of luxury clients considered cultural progressives, who are open to new ideas and experiences.

In current and future vehicles, these "Lincoln Experiences" will include a variety of distinctive features, such as push-button transmission engagement, programmable ride control, unique and diverse powertrains, personalized lighting, and a suite of customizable functions that are unique for each client as the vehicle instantly recognizes the operator and creates a personalized welcoming sequence.

Future Lincolns also will combine these unique experiences with the option of stunning, bespoke interior and exterior design appointments that will transcend typical luxury automotive standards, furthering the brand's transformation. The Lincoln MKC Concept explores many of these transformative ideas.

Exterior design
The Lincoln MKC Concept builds on the foundation of the Lincoln Design DNA found in the new MKZ. These warm, open and inviting design cues are a core element of the brand's heritage.

"The Lincoln design team has done an outstanding job with the MKC Concept in communicating Lincoln's design vision for reaching a new and discerning clientele."

An uninterrupted, highly crafted rear-view appearance highlights the signature full-width taillamps. This is made possible by a liftgate design with a side-view cutline - a Lincoln first. It shows how the dedicated Lincoln design and engineering teams have worked together to deliver customer-focused solutions that not only elevate the appearance, but also provide maximum load capability.

The continuity also is apparent in the execution of the frameless windows, which amplify the richness of the design, as does the signature split-wing grille. The exterior is augmented by warm, cream-based white metallic tri-coat paint, 20-inch premium wheels with polished chrome rims, and a large fixed panoramic roof that runs the length of the vehicle.

Interior design, colors and materials
High-end bespoke design, materials and execution inspire the four-passenger interior.

Just like MKZ - which sets the tone for the brand's thoughtful new approach to design - the Lincoln MKC Concept features a distinct push-button gear shift selector. This enables a flowing, expressive and architectural center console design covered with riveting details, and unique colors and materials.

The headliner is wrapped with high-end material, providing a warm and luxurious feel. The pillars are wrapped with premium leather. The seats also feature premium leather and include a unique embroidered Lincoln Star and crimson stitch accents.

The Lincoln Star lattice also is subtly placed on the MKC Concept's floor mats to complement the lattice design in the speaker mesh, light fixtures and lug-nut covers.

The smooth leather also wraps the door trim uppers, armrests, bolsters, console side rails, instrument panel and cargo area.

Other refined details include finishes like appliqués cut from layers of reconstructed natural wood infused with a metallic flake for a glistening effect on the steering wheel, upper instrument panel and door panels.
Read More

Friday, May 17, 2013

Lexus LS 600h L, 2013

 
 
  •  Lexus LS 600h L, 2013

With its dynamic handling, bold new design and superior craftsmanship, the 2013 LS flagship models hail the future of the Lexus brand as it embarks on its third decade in the premium luxury category. While retaining many of the qualities that have defined Lexus for more than 20 years, the LS reaches new heights with an exciting blend of beautiful design, modern refinement and advanced technology.

The 2013 Lexus LS line-up includes the LS 460, LS 460L, LS 600hL hybrid, and the first-ever LS 460 F Sport. LS 460 and LS 460L are available in RWD and AWD. The LS Hybrid is available with a full-time AWD system.

The all-new Lexus LS 460 F Sport combines a more aggressive exterior with a unique sport interior featuring F Sport seats with larger bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters and genuine aluminum trim. With a sport tuned air suspension that has been lowered 0.4 inches, a Torsen® limited slip rear differential (RWD model), Brembo six-piston caliper brakes, and 19" forged wheels with summer or all-season tires, the LS F Sport promises to be the most engaging LS ever.

The entire 2013 Lexus LS lineup is refined with dynamic, fresh styling that reflects the bold new face of Lexus. The aggressive spindle grille gives the new LS a greater road presence and stronger brand identity while heralding a significant improvement in driving dynamics, responsiveness and handling.

Increased body rigidity enhances stability, and allows for a more comfortable ride. Pitch and bounce control has been enhanced by adopting new frequency dependent shock absorbers, resulting in an even flatter, road-hugging ride. Revised steering offers improvements in accuracy and turn-in response. The braking system has been adjusted for more immediate power and greater pedal feel.

Available safety enhancements include the industry's most advanced Pre-Collision Safety (A-PCS) system with Collision Avoidance Assist. This system is designed to assist the driver in avoiding or mitigating collisions with vehicles and pedestrians under a wide range of city and highway speeds. At speeds lower than 24 miles per hour, this technology helps the Lexus LS to avoid accidents by automatically bringing the LS to a full stop.

The driver-focused interior integrates modern refinement with intuitive technology. The Advanced Illumination System (AIS), an all-LED interior lighting system, illuminates to greet the approaching occupants and then fades in sequence with the vehicle starting procedure.

The new, available Lexus Climate Concierge offers maximum comfort for every LS occupant. The customizable system uses multiple sensors to automatically regulate not only the temperature of the cabin, but also the climate control seats and the heated steering wheel, quickly bringing each occupant to their preferred temperature.

The standard navigation system is displayed on a 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display which is large enough to support simultaneous viewing of a large map display and other vehicle functions.

A next-generation Remote Touch, with one-push confirmation, is standard on all models and enables smooth, intuitive control of many vehicle systems. The Remote Touch allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located within easy reach on the center console. A number of well-placed buttons on the steering wheel and instrument panel enable the direct control of frequently used functions (e.g. temperature setting, fan speed, preset audio stations, etc.)

Lexus Enform® with App Suite leverages the customers' mobile phone technology to provide a new level of connectivity and information management. Users can conduct local searches through Bing™, utilize voice-enabled apps to make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com, tap into internet radio, including Pandora® or iHeartRadio, search business reviews on Yelp and check in on Facebook places. A one-year trial subscription is included for the App Suite.

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Brakes/Tires
  •     Numerous stabilizing fins help the Lexus LS to be one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its segment with a coefficient drag of 0.26.
  •     Laser screw welding, body adhesives and other structural reinforcements increase rigidity and enhance stability, steering feel and handling.
  •     New standard Drive Mode Select allows the driver to choose from 3 distinct drive settings (Eco, Normal and Sport). Vehicles equipped with the available air suspension add Comfort and Sport S+ modes.
  •     The available Air Suspension with Variable Gear Ratio Steering automatically adjusts the damping force for optimal comfort and performance.
  •     The available AWD system features a central, permanently engaged, Torsen Limited Slip center Differential (LSD) to further enhance grip, traction and cornering stability.
  •     Noise-reduction wheels channel resonant noise from the main air chamber to adjacent hollow areas within the wheels via resonator holes, resulting in an incredibly quiet ride.

Safety/Security
  •     The Advanced Pre-Collision Safety system (APCS) can detect stationary pedestrians and those moving at speeds of up to three miles per hour and stop the vehicle from a speed of 24 miles per hour if a collision with another vehicle is imminent.
  •     Available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) constantly monitors the distance to vehicles ahead and is capable of operating at any speed. The system can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, and accelerate away once the road ahead is clear
  •     An upgraded, optional Lane-Keep Assist system (LKA) helps the driver stay in the intended lane.
  •     New to LS, the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) uses rear millimeter-wave radar to monitor the vehicle rear side blind spots at 10 miles per hour or more. This feature includes Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) which automatically operates when the vehicle is in reverse, alerting drivers to the approach of other vehicles when backing out of a parking place.
  •     The Available Automatic High Beam system features a camera located in the inner mirror that detects light sources in front of the vehicle — including the headlamps of oncoming vehicles, the tail lamps of a vehicle ahead and street lighting - to automatically switch the high beams on and off accordingly.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
    Enhancements have been made to the sound insulation for an even quieter cabin.
    Redesigned front seats minimize pressure peaks and increase support. Both front seats feature an improved standard heating and cooling system with larger heating and cooling areas and reduced heating and cooling times.
    All AWD models including the LS600hL feature a heated steering wheel and Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heating elements which warm the front cabin area quickly after vehicle start-up. Windshield de-icer and headlamp washers are standard on AWD models.
    The LS features a standard Lexus Premium Audio System with a nine channel amplifier, 10 speakers, CD / DVD player changer, DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging, and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio. Standard entertainment and connectivity advancements include enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.
    The optional Mark Levinson Reference Surround System provides a 5.1 home theatre surround with 7.1 architecture , discrete circuitry, 15 channel, ML3-16 Processor Power Amplifier covering a frequency range of 20Hz-20kHz, and 450 watts with less than 0.1% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Luxury Options
    Available Power rear seats with Climate Concierge.
    An available Ottoman Seating Package with Shiatsu Massage and a Rear Seat Entertainment System featuring a Blu-ray DVD player, an SD card slot and a retractable, ceiling mounted, nine-inch full-color VGA screen.

Exterior Design
  •     The inverted trapezoidal upper grille and slanted lower grille that were first introduced on the GS sedan have been combined and integrated into a single element on the Lexus LS to create a more prominent spindle shape.
  •     When equipped with the optional three projector LED headlamp unit, the LS offers all LED exterior lighting, including turn signals an fog lamps
  •     Lexus LS 460 F Sport features a unique front fascia with an enhanced three-dimensional mesh grille, larger cooling openings, black grille surround, and round fog lamps. A chrome-plated bar running along the bottom edge of the rear bumper accentuates the lowered center of gravity. F Sport exterior badging completes the look.
  •     LS F Sport offers six exterior colors; Ultra White is exclusive to F Sport.

Interior Design
  •     The dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper Display Zone, with the large, 12.3-inch, LCD multi-display screen, and a lower Operation Zone, which allows access to system controls such as the second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
  •     The driver's instrument meter cluster incorporates high-visibility, large diameter Optitron dials; a 5.8-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Multi-information screen; and an aluminum analog clock with a GPS-based time correction function.
  •     The interior is offered in 5 color schemes: Ivory, Light Gray, Black, Black and Saddle Tan, and a newly available Topaz Brown.
  •     Optional wood includes Walnut, Shimamoku Espresso, Matte Brown Bird's Eye Maple. The Lexus LS 600h L also offers an eco- friendly Bamboo wood trim.
  •     The new, Shimamoku finish is an example of the finest traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Shimamoku, translated as "striped wood," involves the painstaking layering of angle-cut dark and light shaded wood veneers in a unique process which involves 67 manufacturing steps over the course of 38 days.
  •     The Lexus LS 460 F Sport features aluminum ornamentation and a unique interior, featuring a black Alcantara headliner.
Read More

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Black Design, 2013

 
 
 
  •  Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Black Design, 2013

A striking Fuji White Range Rover Evoque showcased the new Black Design Pack to full effect on Land Rover's 2013 Geneva Motor Show stand. Available on the bold and sporting Dynamic derivative, customers can place their order from April 2013.

The stunning coupé and 5-door models already offer unprecedented customer choice and personalisation options across three design themes: Pure, Prestige and Dynamic, to give every customer the opportunity to tailor their Evoque to suit their lifestyle.

The Black Design Pack emboldens the assertive and confident stance of the Range Rover Evoque 'Dynamic', with a host of striking black exterior detailing exclusive to this model, including 20-inch, 9-spoke forged wheels painted in gloss black, never before offered as an option.

All exterior bright finishes have been removed to create the Black Design Pack. Dark exhaust finishers painted in Santorini Black are complemented by a gloss black rear bumper and inner and outer sump guard, which is carried through on the front.

Darkened front headlights and fog lamps continue the black theme whilst the rear lamps have been modified to give a clear effect so that they do not visually appear permanently red. Santorini Black painted 'RANGE ROVER' lettering across both the bonnet and tailgate and a rear sport spoiler complete the look.

The Black Design Pack made its debut earlier this year on the Sicilian Yellow Special Edition Evoque. Available in coupé and 5-door, customers can choose from two exterior colour schemes unique to the Special Edition: a Sicilian Yellow exterior body finish with a Santorini Black contrast roof, or a Santorini Black exterior body finish with a Sicilian Yellow contrast roof and door mirrors. Unique interior finishes include yellow contrast stitching on seats, central storage area, door trims and fascia mid-section, plus an anodised yellow horizontal finisher. Orders are being taken now for the Special Edition, with deliveries beginning in May 2013.

The Range Rover Evoque is powered by a choice of engines. Land Rover's powerful, efficient and lightweight 2.2 litre diesel engine, in both TD4 150PS and SD4 190PS guise, combined with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox and four-wheel drive. The two-wheel drive eD4 is powered by the 150PS TD4 version of the engine combined with a six-speed manual gearbox and produces just 129g/km CO2. The lightweight Land Rover Si4 petrol engine delivers 240PS and is combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.

Customers can also choose from a broad selection of Range Rover accessories. The accessory range includes exterior and interior features, together with a comprehensive choice of practical loading and towing items.
Read More

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary, 2013

 
 
  •  Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary, 2013

In celebration of its 50th birthday and against the backdrop of the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting a very special super sports car with exclusive equipment and technology. The Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary is a limited and numbered series of 100 units worldwide. Each unit has a Forged Composite® badge with the 50° logo and a serial number.

With its output increased to 720 hp, its new performance-oriented front and rear design, the special paintwork and unique interior trim, this Aventador is one of the most exclusive models ever produced in the history of Lamborghini.

The Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary represents a new highlight of this globally successful model range with carbon-fiber monocoque, twelve-cylinder engine and permanent all-wheel drive. With its output of 720 hp, the 6.5-liter twelve-cylinder in the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary is 20 hp more powerful than the current V12 in the Aventador LP700-4. This is due to a new specific engine calibration. With its extremely fast-shifting ISR transmission, the anniversary model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 350 km/h.

The front and rear fascias of the 50th Anniversary model have been redesigned and the aerodynamics further optimized. The front air intakes and the aerodynamic splitter have been enlarged and extended, and small flaps set into the sides. The rear end is completely new and features an enlarged diffuser and expansive meshwork that further improves engine-compartment ventilation. Overall, handling stability at extreme speeds has been optimized without impacting drag characteristics due to an increase of more than 50% in the aerodynamic efficiency compared to the Aventador LP700-4.

The newly developed paintwork on the 50th Anniversary edition, Giallo Maggio (May yellow) is a tribute to the most preferred color chosen by Lamborghini costumers since the Miura and references the founding of Automobili Lamborghini in May 1963. The exclusive Giallo Maggio is an all-new color with a particularly intense glitter effect and will only be available on this edition. The structure of this paintwork in sparkling yellow includes a layer of transparent and highly reflective particles, that make the Aventador truly glisten, especially in the sun. The front and rear, as well as the sills, have a two-tone design in Giallo Maggio and matte black that emphasize the Aventador's streamlined shape. Matching perfectly are the wheels painted in high-gloss black. Naturally, the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary can also be ordered in every imaginable color through the Ad Personam individualization program.

The interior of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary is upholstered in an extremely fine, natural, semi-aniline leather. This leather, specifically developed for the Aventador 50th Anniversary, is worked through a particular tanning and coloring process that accentuates the full grain, natural look and smoothness of the leather. The colors offered are inspired by Lamborghini's home in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. Thus, Nero Ade (black) is combined with Terra Emilia, a shade of brown evoking the earth of the region, a color that evaluates the exclusive positioning of this model. An alternative color is Giallo Quercus, a yellow color matching the exterior and stressing the vehicle's sporty nature, is named for the yellow oak tree in the Sant'Agata Bolognese coat of arms. Featured in both versions is the exclusive Q-Citura stitch, a diamond pattern introduced especially for this celebratory model that highlights the Italian craftsmanship found in the interior of the Aventador 50th Anniversary.

At the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show Lamborghini is also presenting the Gallardo LP560-2 50th Anniversary. It is painted in Bianco Opalis, a shimmering white, and boasts exclusive features like the carbon-fiber rear wing from the Gallardo Superleggera and the transparent engine cover. Furthermore appearing in Shanghai are an Aventador LP700-4 Roadster in Bianco Isis and a Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder in Grigio Telesto.

All Lamborghini models built in the 2013 anniversary year feature the 50th anniversary emblem in the cockpit. Like every Lamborghini, it is made using a combination of hi-tech and artisanal craftsmanship - the emblem is produced in Forged Composite, a carbon-fiber material patented by Lamborghini. The glazed "50th" logo is then applied by hand by experienced specialists.
Read More