Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, 2010

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, 2010

 

 

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini has created a driving experience like absolutely no other - fascinating design, breathtaking performance and extreme handling characteristics come together with all the sensual intensity and open-air pleasure that only a soft top super sports car can deliver.
An even more powerful engine, permanent all-wheel drive and an all-new chassis mean that the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder offers yet another significant increase in performance against its predecessor. With its innovative design, the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder takes the unique Lamborghini styling ethic to the next level; the Spyder displays this powerful and elegant design language with even greater distinctiveness, making it all the more unmistakable.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is a simply breathtaking automobile - and utterly unparalleled in its commitment to extreme motoring. In its new generation, the Gallardo Spyder represents more than ever before automotive passion in its purest form. As in the Coupé, its enormous power is delivered by the new 5.2 liter V10 with an output of 560 horsepower (412 kW) at 8,000 rpm. The increase in 40 horsepower (29 kW) over its predecessor, as well as the 44 pound (20 kilogram) reduction in vehicle weight, improves the power-to-weight ratio to 6.10 pounds (2.77 kg) per horsepower, thus improving performance even further.

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder takes only 4.0 seconds to sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100 km/h), reaching 124 mph (0 to 200 km/h) in only 13.1 seconds and going on to a top speed of 201 mph (324 km/h). The new driveline, featuring the "Iniezione Diretta Stratificata" direct fuel injection system also makes for impressive efficiency. Despite the considerable increase in performance, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by a staggering 18 percent.
Engineers at the Ufficio Tecnico Lamborghini, Sant'Agata-based Technical Department, have also improved traction, handling and stability at high speeds. The redesigned four-wheel drive transmission, the new suspension, the improved stiffness of the Spyder bodyshell and the optimized aerodynamics all contribute to the overall improvements in the vehicle, as do the reduced weight and decreased friction throughout the components.

The powerful elegance
Every Lamborghini is a high-performance athlete. Its sensuality is based on precision, performance and on spontaneous action. A Lamborghini's elegance is that of sheer, pure power. This DNA of the Lamborghini brand is taken to the next level with every new car by the Centro Stile. Thus the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder displays the precise lines and clean surfaces of a minimalist design ethos that resists ornamentation or embellishment of any kind. Even more than the Coupé, the Spyder places emphasis on the powerful basic wedge form, complemented by the tightly cut soft top.
Each evolution of the Lamborghini form is strictly dictated by the demands of function. The redesigned front end lends the LP560-4 a firm, low stance that also contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency. In line with the increased engine output, the enlarged and clearly accentuated air intakes increase the air flow critical to such a high-performance automobile. The spoiler, positioned low between the air intakes, improves aerodynamic stability at high speeds.

Characteristic LED daytime running lights
The new headlights have characteristic daytime running lights integrated beneath the bi-xenon lamps. 15 LEDs are arranged in a Y form, with the same pattern repeating in the rear tail-lights. The rear and brake lights were inspired by the Miura concept, the Murciélago LP640 and the Reventón. The Y-shaped elements are now signature features of contemporary Lamborghini models, appearing most recently in the Estoque concept car, the innovative super sports sedan from Sant'Agata.
The completely redesigned rear gives new meaning to the term "powerful elegance". The rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser are precisely arranged to add tremendous visual breadth to the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder, while sustaining its firm bond with the road surface. In addition, the streamlined covers left and right of the bonnet accentuate the powerful shoulders and the taut lines of the new Gallardo.

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Jaguar X-Type Estate, 2008

Jaguar X-Type Estate, 2008

 

 

The Jaguar X-Type gets a fresh look for 2008, along with a host of new features inside and outside the vehicle and a new automatic transmission in the acclaimed 2.2 diesel. With significant revisions including nearly 500 new components, the new generation Jaguar X-Type retains all the original car's strengths, and adds some new ones of its own.

The new Jaguar X-Type's exterior styling is significantly refreshed - with changes that reflect some of Jaguar's new saloon car design language - with subtle interior revisions and greater choice of trim and equipment, further emphasising the Jaguar X-Type's premium car credentials.

The diesel-automatic alternative
For the first time in the Jaguar X-Type range, buyers can opt for diesel power and an automatic transmission. The 2.2 litre diesel is paired with a new six-speed automatic gearbox, which has the added attraction of 'one-touch control' Jaguar Sequential Shift, for manual gearchanges.

The six gear ratios are chosen to deliver refined cruising while maintaining sporty performance - the balance that Jaguar research shows an Jaguar X-Type owner wants. Where the 2.2 litre diesel with manual transmission can achieve maximum torque from second gear, the new combination can achieve maximum torque in all six gears, utilising optimum gear change points to ensure best use of the available torque. This delivers significant benefits to performance 'feel' and the performance of the diesel automatic is impressively close to that of the diesel with the manual transmission. In the new Jaguar X-Type saloon, the 2.2D manual version has headline figures of 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds (0-100kph in 9.1 seconds), a maximum speed of 134mph (216kph), a combined economy of 47.1mpg (6.0l/100km), and a CO2 rating of 159g/km. The respective figures for the 2.2D automatic are 9.5 seconds (9.9 seconds), 129mph (208kph), 41 mpg (6.9l/100km) and 184g/km. The comparative figures - shown in full in the specification tables - are similar for estate versions.

Technology moving forwards 

Building on its strengths

The exterior surfaces are clean, confident and above all, contemporary, visually confirming the new Jaguar X-Type as a thoroughly modern Jaguar. The frontal styling introduces a new '3D' bright mesh grille, with a bold frame and body coloured outer surround that echo the design themes of both the XJ and XF. And the new Jaguar X-Type is proud of its Jaguar identity, with a new Jaguar 'growler' emblem prominently mounted within the mesh grille.

New front bumper covers define the new Jaguar X-Type's face, with taut, clean lines and neatly integrated side marker reflectors. A bright 'splitter' in the lower air intakes also adds visual width to the new Jaguar X-Type, while the front bumper neatly incorporates colour-keyed sensors for the next-generation park-aid system and re-profiled covers for the headlamp power-wash system where those features are fitted.

The redesigned rear bumper continues the clean, confident theme, with smooth, simple surfaces that shrink the visual mass of the rear of the car. Echoing the bright splitter in the front, a full-width bright chrome signature blade gives the new Jaguar X-Type a strong identity in line with the rest of the Jaguar range. In another neat touch, a new roof-mounted Antenna Pod for saloon and Estate replaces the previous aerial.

The lower, sportier profile is underlined by cleaner, more modern side mouldings, while replacing the side indicator repeaters with bold new Jaguar 'ingot' badges adds a striking piece of jewellery to the front fenders - very much in line with new Jaguar design. The Sport pack also offers a subtle body-coloured rear boot-lid spoiler.

The strong new growler grille badge clearly identifies the X-Type as a Jaguar, and there is a new script style for the X-Type badge. High-specification models are appropriately identified by an Executive or Sovereign badge, but aside from this, simplicity is the key with the all-wheel drive, AWD badges and engine identifier badges seen on the previous generation X-Type deleted, for a cleaner look.

The inside
The interior freshening of the new Jaguar X-Type complements the exterior changes, focussing on contemporary Jaguar design, but with familiar levels of comfort, luxury and craftsmanship.

The new Jaguar X-Type introduces four new seat styles, each with its own matching door trim.
One has leather borders with sport cloth centre cushions, and bold new horizontal twin-needle stitching - complemented by door trim pads matching the two seat trim colours, Champagne or Warm Charcoal. Those seats also have electrical four-way adjustment, for both driver and front passenger.

A second option offers either six-way or ten-way driver and passenger seat adjustment (market dependent), all leather seat facings with twin needle horizontal stitch, and door trims in seat trim colour with a three-diagonal twin-needle stitching pattern - with the additional choice of Ivory colour.

Customers wanting a sportier interior trim can choose the Sports Pack. In soft grain leather with twin-needle diamond stitching for the centre cushions, in contrasting colours - Warm Charcoal leather with Stone stitching, Ivory or Spice with Warm Charcoal - the Sports Pack seats have ten-way adjustment with driver's seat memory function, and the luxurious diamond-stitching pattern repeated in the matched door trims.

The range-topping Luxury Pack also offers ten-way adjustment, with memory, plus a subtly different all-leather style, combining horizontal stitching and contrasting piping - Champagne leather with Warm Charcoal piping (or vice versa), and Ivory leather with piping in another new colour, Oyster. The Luxury door trim matches the seats, but adds traditional walnut inserts.

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Jaguar X-Type, 2008

Jaguar X-Type, 2008

 

The Jaguar X-Type gets a fresh look for 2008, along with a host of new features inside and outside the vehicle and a new automatic transmission in the acclaimed 2.2 diesel. With significant revisions including nearly 500 new components, the new generation Jaguar X-Type retains all the original car's strengths, and adds some new ones of its own.

The new Jaguar X-Type's exterior styling is significantly refreshed - with changes that reflect some of Jaguar's new saloon car design language - with subtle interior revisions and greater choice of trim and equipment, further emphasising the Jaguar X-Type's premium car credentials.

The diesel-automatic alternative
For the first time in the Jaguar X-Type range, buyers can opt for diesel power and an automatic transmission. The 2.2 litre diesel is paired with a new six-speed automatic gearbox, which has the added attraction of 'one-touch control' Jaguar Sequential Shift, for manual gearchanges.

The 6 gear ratios are chosen to deliver refined cruising while maintaining sporty performance - the balance that Jaguar research shows an Jaguar X-Type owner wants. Where the 2.2 litre diesel with manual transmission can achieve maximum torque from second gear, the new combination can achieve maximum torque in all six gears, utilising optimum gear change points to ensure best use of the available torque. This delivers significant benefits to performance 'feel' and the performance of the diesel automatic is impressively close to that of the diesel with the manual transmission. In the new Jaguar X-Type saloon, the 2.2D manual version has headline figures of 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds (0-100kph in 9.1 seconds), a maximum speed of 134mph (216kph), a combined economy of 47.1mpg (6.0l/100km), and a CO2 rating of 159g/km. The respective figures for the 2.2D automatic are 9.5 seconds (9.9 seconds), 129mph (208kph), 41 mpg (6.9l/100km) and 184g/km. The comparative figures - shown in full in the specification tables - are similar for estate versions.

Technology moving forwards
The new Jaguar X-Type also introduces significantly upgraded electronic features, from new digital audio options to improved Bluetooth® connectivity and 'Generation 5' parking aids.
As digital broadcasting becomes increasingly widespread around the world, the new Jaguar X-Type offers Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) systems, while retaining the ability to receive both analogue and digital broadcasts.

Building on its strengths
The new Jaguar X-Type announces its arrival with a fresh new look that reflects Jaguar's new design language.
The exterior surfaces are clean, confident and above all, contemporary, visually confirming the new Jaguar X-Type as a thoroughly modern Jaguar. The frontal styling introduces a new '3D' bright mesh grille, with a bold frame and body coloured outer surround that echo the design themes of both the XJ and XF. And the new Jaguar X-Type is proud of its Jaguar identity, with a new Jaguar 'growler' emblem prominently mounted within the mesh grille.

New front bumper covers define the new Jaguar X-Type's face, with taut, clean lines and neatly integrated side marker reflectors. A bright 'splitter' in the lower air intakes also adds visual width to the new Jaguar X-Type, while the front bumper neatly incorporates colour-keyed sensors for the next-generation park-aid system and re-profiled covers for the headlamp power-wash system where those features are fitted.

The redesigned rear bumper continues the clean, confident theme, with smooth, simple surfaces that shrink the visual mass of the rear of the car. Echoing the bright splitter in the front, a full-width bright chrome signature blade gives the new Jaguar X-Type a strong identity in line with the rest of the Jaguar range. In another neat touch, a new roof-mounted Antenna Pod for saloon and Estate replaces the previous aerial.

The inside
The interior freshening of the new Jaguar X-Type complements the exterior changes, focussing on contemporary Jaguar design, but with familiar levels of comfort, luxury and craftsmanship.
The new Jaguar X-Type introduces four new seat styles, each with its own matching door trim.

One has leather borders with sport cloth centre cushions, and bold new horizontal twin-needle stitching - complemented by door trim pads matching the two seat trim colours, Champagne or Warm Charcoal. Those seats also have electrical four-way adjustment, for both driver and front passenger.

A second option offers either six-way or ten-way driver and passenger seat adjustment (market dependent), all leather seat facings with twin needle horizontal stitch, and door trims in seat trim colour with a three-diagonal twin-needle stitching pattern - with the additional choice of Ivory colour.

The range-topping Luxury Pack also offers ten-way adjustment, with memory, plus a subtly different all-leather style, combining horizontal stitching and contrasting piping - Champagne leather with Warm Charcoal piping (or vice versa), and Ivory leather with piping in another new colour, Oyster. The Luxury door trim matches the seats, but adds traditional walnut inserts.

A dark, distinctively-grained Rosewood veneer is a new option with a fresh, contemporary design feel, and depending on model includes the automatic shift surround and ashtray lid.

Piano Black is a modern, stylish and luxurious option that is often seen as an expensive option on some rivals, but which comes as standard as the facia highlights on the opening trim level for the new Jaguar X-Type. These same models also include a Charcoal leather gearknob on manual versions, Piano Black shift knob and surround on petrol automatic versions, and leather with Piano Black inserts for the new diesel automatic combination.

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Jaguar XKR Portfolio, 2008

Jaguar XKR Portfolio, 2008

 

 

The Jaguar cars is adding even more appeal to the 'must have' XKR with the unveiling of the all-new special edition Portfolio model. The 4.2-litre supercharged sports car will be sold worldwide and each one will feature notable additions to the already strong specification of the XKR, which is capable of hitting an electronically controlled top speed of 155mph and can accelerate to 60mph in just 4.9 seconds (5.0 seconds for the convertible).

The XKR's already powerful sporting styling cues - an enhanced front bumper, bonnet louvres and aluminium-finish grilles and side power vents - will remain and exclusive Celestial Black exterior paint and 20-inch polished Cremona five-spoke alloy wheels add to the overall presence.

The XKR's interior represents a truly sophisticated yet driver-focussed environment thanks to class-leading ergonomics, user-friendly in-car technology and simple, clear information displays in the instrument panel and main dashboard area.

The XKR Portfolio combine this acclaimed design and performance with Jaguar's engineering and craftsmanship skills to take the XKR to an even higher level. Every XKR benefits from its class-leading, advanced aluminium construction, which ensures that its power is matched by a dynamic, lightweight chassis that handles supremely, rides exceptionally well and stops with surefooted reassurance time after time.

400 mm front brake discs - an increase of 45mm over the standard XKR - are retarded by powerful six-piston callipers, while at the rear four-piston calipers operate on 350mm discs. Innovative race-developed crescent-shaped grooves cut into the surface of the discs prevent a build-up of deposits on the brake pads and improve braking performance under extreme use.

By allowing the heat created within the system to dissipate quickly and efficiently the XKR Portfolio's brakes produce fade-free performance whilst maintaining Jaguar renowned blend of refinement and stopping power. Unique 'R' branding on the front brake calipers reveals the six-piston set-up beneath.

Surrounding the XKR Portfolio's brakes are polished 20-inch five-spoke Cremona wheels, while behind the front wheels sit all-new Power Vents which are hewn from polished aluminium and incorporate the indicator side repeater and Jaguar signature 'ingot'. An exclusive Celestial Black exterior paint will also serve to differentiate the XKR Portfolio edition. (UK and Switzerland have a Liquid Silver paint option as well.)

A host of new additions to the interior further the luxurious look and feel of the XKR Portfolio. A unique, and quite beautiful, Engine-Spun aluminium veneer is standard on the Portfolio, while customers will also have the option of an elegant Satin American Walnut veneer. A new alloy and leather gearshift selector, soft-grab door handles, contrast stitching throughout the cabin, leather-edged mats with a Jaguar logo and distinctive Portfolio treadplates on the doorsills complete the effect.

The XKR Portfolio also marks another first for Jaguar: the first production example of its new partnership with renowned audio entertainment specialists Bowers & Wilkins. This world-leading loudspeaker manufacturer worked alongside Jaguar to create a stunning speaker system for the recent C-XF concept car, but the XKR Portfolio is the first production Jaguar to benefit from the relationship.

Taking Jaguar's 525W Premium Audio system with Dolby Pro Logic II surround sound as a starting point, Bowers & Wilkins have crafted a signature speaker system specifically for the XKR's cabin. High-output, low-distortion Kevlar mid-range speakers and specially designed aluminium-dome tweeters deliver superb mid-range and extended high-frequency responses.

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Jaguar XJ, 2008

Jaguar XJ, 2008

 

 

 

Jaguar XJ, 2008

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Mercedes C63 AMG Estate F1 Medical Car, 2009

Mercedes C63 AMG Estate F1 Medical Car, 2009

 

The Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG F1 Safety Car, another permanent feature of each Formula 1 race is the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate F1 Medical Car. At the start of every Grand Prix, the high-speed AMG estate car follows the Formula 1 field on the first lap. This is because the first lap represents a critical phase of the race in which the Formula 1 vehicles are especially tightly bunched. In the event of an accident during the race, the Medical Car is the first vehicle on the scene and is able to guarantee the fastest possible emergency treatment.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate has excellent credentials for such a challenging task, where literally every second counts: the high-performance estate vehicle is powered by the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which delivers 336 kW/457 hp and 600 Newtonmetres of torque. The AMG sport exhaust system boasts larger pipe diameters and new rear silencers, this resulting in a considerably more distinctive sound that comes out of the two chrome-plated dual tailpipes. In order to guarantee greater reliability, the cooling of coolant, engine oil, transmission oil and power steering has been optimized, this being visible also from the new AMG front apron with its considerably larger cooling-air openings. The power from the engine is transmitted via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7G-TRONIC PLUS, which blips the throttle when changing down for even greater smoothness. Perfect traction is guaranteed by the combination of 3-stage ESP® and differential lock with 35 percent locking effect.

Coil-over suspension and AMG high-performance braking system

An adjustable coil-over suspension and 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, measuring 8 and 9 inches wide and fitted with tyres of sizes 235/35 (front) and 255/30 (rear), respectively, help to ensure perfect contact with the road. The powerful AMG high-performance braking system, with its internally ventilated and perforated composite brake discs on the front axle, guarantees extremely short stopping distances. The Official F1 Medical Car differs from the standard-production Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate with its new AMG front apron with larger cooling-air openings as well as special brake cooling. The active cooling of the rear-axle differential is integrated into the diffuser insert at the rear. Like the Safety Car, the Medical Car, too, draws attention to its special role on the track through its F1 logos, roof bar and strobe-like LED flashlights at front and rear. Enhanced visibility in darkness or bad weather is ensured by the LED-illuminated number plate with Medical Car lettering on the boot lid tailgate.

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate F1 Medical Car is driven by racing driver Alan van de Merwe (South Africa). His co-driver is Dr. Gary Hartstein (Belgium), who is the official FIA Grand Prix Chief Medical Officer. Both of them are accommodated in AMG sports bucket seats with 4-point seatbelts, as are the two medical assistants in the rear. Two monitors in the centre console help the crew to supervise the action on the racetrack, while an on-board two-way radio system is responsible for communication with the race management. The functional feel of the interior is marked by black leather appointments and aluminium trim parts. The 365-millimetre AMG performance steering wheel with its flat underside on the steering wheel rim and AMG aluminium shift paddles guarantees perfect control over the vehicle. With its unrivalled volume of 485 litres, the luggage compartment offers ample space for the full complement of emergency equipment, including defibrillator and respirator.

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Mercedes B-Class, 2009

Mercedes B-Class, 2009

 

 

The restyled front end injects the Mercedes-Benz B-Class with more poise and assurance than before. This is primarily down to the radiator grille with its three chromed cross fins painted in metallic grey and the Mercedes star integrated into its centre. However, the more imposing appearance of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class also stems from the new-look bumper - whose design emphasises the large air intake at the bottom - as well as the modified bonnet. This new design idiom makes the front look broad and, as a consequence, especially powerful, symbolising the sporty attributes of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class even more clearly than before. The design at the sides seems more harmonious and elegant than before, because the exterior mirror housings, door handles and skirt panels are now painted to match the body colour on all model variants.

The rear styling picks up on the dynamic flow of lines at the front and along the sides. A direct visual link is created by the tail light assemblies, whose upper edges merge seamlessly with the character line along the vehicle's sides. The tail lights sport a new high-brilliance look and draw the gaze to the large tailgate, which now comes with en ergonomically enhanced chrome handle strip.

Interior: high-grade appointments with new upholsteries and trims
High-class appeal, attention to detail and a sense of ample spaciousness - these qualities have always been intrinsic to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The winning blend of forms, colours and materials teams up with the interior's roominess, the pleasant feel of all its surface materials and the expansive window areas to produce a most inviting ambience. This is helped by the high seating position - which, incidentally, improves the driver's all-round view, too - while the relatively high waistline fosters a sense of security without making the occupants feel confined.

The Mercedes design team has further upgraded the interior with a new upholstery fabric, plus a new fabric pattern for the seat cushions. If the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is ordered with the sports package, the side seat bolsters are trimmed in ARTICO man-made leather and the centre panels in fabric. The interior door linings likewise feature a new fabric trim.

The centre console continues to be bordered by trim strips on both sides, but they are now made from diagonally brushed aluminium in a smoke grey finish. The same, integrated trim is found again in the vicinity of the gearshift and in the door panelling, giving the interior an added sense of refinement.

Diesel engines: fuel consumption reduced by seven percent
the Mercedes-Benz B-Class continues to be available with a choice of six engines - two direct-injection diesel units (80 kW/109 hp and 103 kW/140 hp) delivering up to 300 newton metres of torque, as well as four petrol engines with a peak power output of up to 142 kW/193 hp and a maximum torque of 280 newton metres. The four-cylinder power units have undergone a series of detailed improvements in order to further reduce fuel consumption.

For the diesel models, this means that the combined NEDC fuel consumption of the B 180 CDI and B 200 CDI has dropped by as much as seven percent - depending on tyre size - to 5.2 - 5.4 and 5.4 - 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres, respectively. The two turbodiesel models, which are particularly smooth-running thanks to a balancer shaft, will therefore be an even less frequent sight at the filling station from now on; the B 180 CDI can clock up over 1000 kilometres on a single tank of fuel (54 litres).

Petrol models: new fuel-saving ECO start/stop function
Depending on the model and engine output, the four petrol variants of the B-Class return fuel consumption figures of between 6.6 and 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres on the NEDC driving cycle. From autumn 2008, motoring is set to become even more economical with the arrival of the B 150 and B 170 BlueEFFICIENCY models featuring the ECO start/stop function. This newly developed function automatically switches the engine off when the driver shifts to neutral at low speed whilst depressing the brake pedal. If the criteria for stopping the engine are fulfilled, a special display appears in the instrument cluster to inform the driver.

Natural-gas drive: a clean and economical alternative
A further new addition to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class range bears the initials "NGT" on the right-hand side of its tailgate. They stand for "Natural Gas Technology" and identify a model variant which is as economical as it is environmentally compatible, courtesy of its bi-fuel drive: the B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY is able to run on both natural gas and premium grade petrol while delivering an identical maximum output of 85 kW/116 hp.

In addition to the petrol tank, there are five natural gas reservoirs whose total capacity of 16 kilograms equates to a range of over 300 kilometres. With overall NEDC consumption figures of 7.3 litres of premium petrol and 4.9 kilograms of natural gas per 100 kilometres, the new B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY is therefore able to attain a total range in excess of 1000 kilometres. The driver determines which power source the engine is run on at the touch of a button using the multifunction steering wheel; an electronic control unit carries out the switch instantaneously without any jolts - even while on the move.

The four-cylinder engine has been modified by Mercedes-Benz to include additional gas injectors on the underside of the intake manifold. A close-coupled pressure governor with an electromagnetic shut-off valve regulates the supply of natural gas and keeps the pressure within the system constant.

The installation of the gas reservoirs, which are located in the rear and underneath the front passenger footwell, reduces the boot capacity of the B-Class by 128 to 422 litres (as per the VDA measurement method), but there is still sufficient space for carrying a family's luggage.

The lower carbon dioxide emissions and cheaper fuel costs make natural gas an attractive alternative to petrol and diesel, both ecologically and economically speaking. On the NEDC cycle, the CO2 emissions are 17 percent lower than in the petrol-powered B 170 at 135 grams per kilometre. If the 4.9 kilograms (7.5 m³) of natural gas consumed per 100 kilometres by the new B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY is converted into the equivalent quantity of petrol energy, the fuel cost per kilometre is around 50 percent less than when running on petrol.

Environmental Certificate: first ever lifecycle assessment for NGT drive too
Mercedes engineers have, for the first time, compiled an eco balance sheet for the natural-gas drive. It forms one element of the Environmental Certificate awarded to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class by Germany's TÜV Technical Inspection Authority. Mercedes-Benz is the only automotive brand in the world to have been granted this certificate, which is based on the stringent international standard ISO 14062 "Design For Environment". It is a confirmation of the Stuttgart-based brand's commitment to all aspects of environmental protection. In contrast to just the standardised measurement of exhaust emissions and fuel consumption on the roller dynamometer, Mercedes engineers analyse the environmental compatibility of vehicles over their entire lifecycle - starting with their manufacture, continuing with their many years of use and finishing with their end-of-life disposal.

The results of this integrated analysis over a total distance travelled of 150,000 kilometres highlight, for example, a number of clear advantages for the natural-gas drive. The overall CO2 emissions are some 20 percent below the figure for the comparable petrol-engined model. Nitrogen oxide emissions are eleven percent lower, while the experts have calculated a 54 percent difference in carbon monoxide emissions over the entire lifecycle in favour of the natural-gas drive. The greater ecological cost of the manufacturing process for the new B 170 NGT is therefore balanced out after a distance of 17,300 kilometres.

Occupant protection: extensive safety features enhanced yet further
When it comes to safety, the Mercedes-Benz B-Class sets an example for all other models of these dimensions to follow: in the European NCAP test programme, the Sports Tourer was awarded the highest rating of five stars.

The comprehensive safety specification, comprising two-stage front airbags, belt tensioners for the front and outer rear seats, belt force limiters plus active head restraints in the front, ISOFIX child seat attachment points and head/thorax sidebags, has now been complemented by the addition of crash-responsive emergency lighting in the passenger compartment. Following an accident of a predetermined severity, the lighting comes on automatically to allow the occupants to get their bearings more easily in the dark and expedite the work of the rescue services.

Active safety: flashing brake lights as a warning to other motorists
Accident prevention is the overriding priority of the Mercedes safety concept - a concept that is geared towards motoring reality. To help them bring critical situations under control safely and with ease, drivers of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class can count on highly effective, standard-fit technology in the form of systems such as ABS, Brake Assist and ESP®. Mercedes engineers have however gone that little bit further by seeking to devise a way of offering other motorists added safety too. The result is a simple but highly effective method of avoiding rear-end collisions: flashing brake lights. This safety technology is included as standard on the 2008 model year B-Class.

During testing, Mercedes engineers were able to ascertain that the braking reaction time of motorists is quickened by an average of 0.2 seconds if they see a flashing red warning signal instead of conventional brake lights in an emergency braking situation. This shortens the stopping distance by around 4.40 metres if they are travelling at a speed of 80 km/h, and by a whole 5.50 metres or so when braking from 100 km/h. Brake lights flashing at a high frequency therefore prove to be an effective means of alerting drivers behind to the risk of a rear-end collision.

The flashing brake lights are triggered automatically if the driver initiates emergency braking when travelling at a speed of 50 km/h or more. And if the B-Class is braked to a stop from a speed of over 70 km/h, the hazard warning lights will come on too.

Assistance systems: automatic parking with ultrasound and electric steering
The Electronic Stability Program has been expanded to include a new, standard function: the automatic hill-start assist. This prevents the Mercedes-Benz B-Class from rolling backwards as the driver switches from the brake to the accelerator pedal when starting off uphill. In such situations, the ESP® briefly maintains the brake pressure to make pulling away easy.

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Opel Zafira, 2008

Opel Zafira, 2008

 

With fresh design accents and three additional engines, the new Opel Zafira will be available at dealerships from February 2008. The Zafira's striking looks communicate dynamics and self-confidence. Its 1.6-liter gasoline and two 1.7-liter CDTI engines embody the current trends: powerful, economical and affordable. This all puts the Opel compact van in an excellent position to continue the success story of the world's first fully versatile seven-seater, which will see its two millionth unit rolling off the assembly line early next year. Following the introduction of the second generation in mid-2005, this Zafira also belongs to the top of its vehicle class with over 450,000 units sold and around ten percent market share in Europe. The new edition of the bestseller makes its world premiere at the Bologna Motor Show (December 7 - 16, 2007).

Alain Visser, Chief Marketing Officer of GM Europe, describes the new Zafira as "the right offer at the right time. We know that customers are very satisfied with its quality, reliability, functionality and versatility. And now we've made the Zafira even sportier and equipped it with more efficient engines. This all keeps the Zafira in benchmark position in the European compact MPV class."

Dynamic V-styling defines face
The new Zafira is characterized by striking front and rear design elements that give the car a sporty note. The confident wide front chrome beam with integrated Opel logo takes the hood tapering and draws it into the two-part radiator grille fins, which are now fully chromed. The distinctive lines around the fog lamp recesses also integrate the bumper into the dynamic V-styling; headlamp housings are also in chrome-look. The Zafira Sport boasts an even more impressive look with its bold, full front lip. The resulting sweep continues from the flared wheelarches, over the side sills to the pronounced rear apron. Other new eye-catching features include two transparent 3-D cells in the red tail lamps. The design enhancement is rounded off by the rear lamps' silver-white strip, which crosses over into the rear chrome beam.

The further refined interior is accentuated by glossy chrome-rings around climate and radio controls as well as new decorative trim on the instrument panel and doors. The Cosmo version features elegant piano lacquer trim on the center console and decorative molding on the steering wheel. The infotainment systems with Navi, CD, DVD and MP3 functions also have stereo connections for external audio equipment, such as an iPod.

The Zafira's "trademark" Flex7 seating system is of course always on board. The unrivalled versatile system ensures fast reconfiguration of the interior without cumbersome removal of the seats.

New engines
The motto for engines is higher economy and power. With a new 1.6-liter gasoline and two 1.7 CDTI common-rail turbo-diesel engines, the range now boasts further highly-efficient propulsion alternatives. In future, Zafira customers can choose from a total of nine different engines. Their output spectrum ranges from the 94 natural gas hp of the especially economical and environmentally-compatible Zafira 1.6 CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) to the 240 turbo hp of the sporty top model Zafira OPC. With these two engines, Opel also enriches the segment with two innovative variants: the natural gas Zafira with only 138 g CO2 paved the way for this alternative form of propulsion, while the OPC version with 240 hp took over the pioneer role for sport vans.

The Zafira model line's favorable operating costs result from a number of factors including low fuel consumption, low maintenance requirements, long service intervals and above all high value retention. This all helped the Opel van to take first place in the "Best Value 2006" awards in specialist magazine "Auto Bild".

The new, weight-optimized 1.6 TWINPORT ECOTEC with seamlessly controllable intake and exhaust camshafts has output of 85 kW/115 hp. The four-cylinder, four-valve unit replaces the 77 kW/105 hp 1.6-liter engine and consumes just 7.0 liters of fuel per 100 km. This reflects a savings of 4.3 percent compared to the predecessor. At the same time, better driving performance can be achieved thanks to the increased power, which is reflected in the 9 km/h higher maximum speed and acceleration of 13.4 seconds from zero to 100 km/h.

The new 1.7 CDTI engines with 81 kW/110 hp and 92 kW/125 hp both come with six-speed manual transmission as standard and feature common-rail injection, four-valve technology with swirl control as well as maintenance-free diesel particulate filter. They replace the 74 kW/100 hp 1.9 CDTI and the manual gearbox version of the 88 kW/120 hp 1.9-liter diesel. With increased torque of 20 and 40 Nm respectively, the 1.7 CDTI units provide noticeably more power while consumption and emissions are reduced. Efficiency is increased by up to 5 percent. Both diesel units require 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 km and emit just 152 g CO2 per km.

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Opel Meriva Concept, 2008

Opel Meriva Concept, 2008

 

 

The Opel Meriva Concept, due to be unveiled at the 78th International Motor Show in Geneva (March 6 - 16, 2008), illustrates how the new Opel design language can be adapted to create bold, fresh design solutions for this segment.

The Opel Meriva Concept takes flexibility to new heights with its innovative FlexDoors system, which consists of rear-hinged rear doors that swing open toward the back of the car. As the B-pillars have been purposely retained for passive security reasons, the Meriva Concept's front and rear doors can also be opened independently of each other. Other rear-hinged rear doors already on the market can only be opened after the front door has been opened. This innovation makes access to the car interior much easier and also offers a range of safety benefits over conventional car doors. In the Meriva Concept, this innovation is combined with the highly variable FlexSpace rear seating system familiar from the production Meriva.

The Flex Doors system also enhances comfort and functionality, as the highest point of the roof - just behind the B-pillars - is exactly where the passengers enter and exit the vehicle. This architecture enabled designers to create a very dynamic and unique silhouette, with the arched roof line sloping down to the C-pillars.

Especially eye-catching is the dynamic "wave" in the window line just behind the B-pillars, which provides an excellent all-round view for rear passengers, particularly for children. The body also boasts the distinctive "blade" bodyside form, which was a design element of the GTC Coupé and Flextreme. Another feature is the U-shaped windshield, which stretches up and back over the rear passengers' heads - echoing the Astra GTC's panorama windshield. The slim A-pillars and windshield pulled far down ensure plenty of light and a spacious interior atmosphere. Both elements contribute to the outstanding all-round visibility for the occupants.

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