Fiat 500 Abarth R3T, 2010

Fiat 500 Abarth R3T, 2010

 

 

Abarth introduced its latest racing gem at the 51st Sanremo Rally. The new Fiat 500 Abarth R3T will lend its name to a promotional rally trophy in 2010, due to join the two track events (European and Italian) planned for the Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse.

For Abarth, this marks a return to promotional trophy events, a niche it has made its own for more than thirty years. Since 1977, to be precise, when the first ever Autobianchi A112 Abarth Championship was held, followed by trophies for the Fiat Uno, Uno Turbo, Cinquecento, Seicento, Punto Kit and Super 1600, Stilo, Panda Kit.

The Fiat 500 Abarth rally version will be type approved for Group R3T, the category for turbocharged cars up to 1600 cm3 in capacity. This class will be the future of the specialism because it represents a good compromise between car cost and performance. Ideal for private drivers and young people who want to show their worth in a true racing car, capable of outstanding performance by any standard.

The Fiat 500 Abarth power unit is 1368 cm3 with a Garret GT 1446 fixed geometry turbocharger capable of delivering a power of 180 hp (132 kw) at 5500 rpm.

The gearbox is sequential, front meshing with 6 speeds and includes a multiplate self-locking differential, twin plate clutch and special half-axles.

Great care has been taken to ensure the suspension can be adjusted to obtain a ride suited to each driver's individual driving style. The racing shock-absorbers are adjustable, with coaxial spring and wheel to alter the ground clearance plus special shims to adjust the caster and camber angles.

The 7" x 17" OZ asphalt rims are designed for 19/62-17 tyres.
The Brembo brakes are all disc, ventilated at the front with 4 callipers, solid disc at the rear with brake distributor and governor. The handbrake is hydraulic.
The Fiat 500 Abarth is equipped with a special welded roll-bar integral with the body, the required safety devices and FIA type-approved seats with 6 seat belt anchorage points.

The weight is the lowest set by the regulations for this category: 1080 kg unladen.
Great care has also been taken over the details, beginning with a livery that is most decidedly in keeping with tradition, complemented by a lovingly crafted interior and instruments.

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Fiat Grande Punto Natural Power, 2009

Fiat Grande Punto Natural Power, 2009

 

Fiat proudly presents the Fiat Grande Punto Natural Power, a new dual fuel (petrol/methane) version that confirms the brand's commitment to the field of environmental protection. This substantial commitment is reflected by Fiat's indisputable leadership in the field of cars with methane engines as original equipment (OEM): during the period January-August 2008 some 43,000 methane-driven Fiat vehicles were sold in Italy compared with 33,000 during the same period in 2007.

We should not forget that Fiat is the first and only manufacturer to offer, in its "Natural Power" range, a wide array of vehicles with methane-petrol dual fuel systems able to meet the mobility requirement of an extensive category of users: Multipla Natural Power, Punto Natural Power, Panda Panda Natural Power, Panda Panda Climbing Natural Power and Doblò Natural Power. Now comes the turn of the Fiat Grande Punto Natural Power, a new dual fuel car that sets standards of absolute excellence in several areas.

Firstly, a methane-driven Grande Punto proves itself to be a valid financial alternative to cars that run on conventional fuels (diesel and petrol) that are increasingly subject to rising prices. Suffice it to say that in Italy, for example, EUR 12 buys a full tank of natural gas and it costs just EUR 3.8 to cover 100 km.

Another virtue of the new model is its extraordinary range: when running on methane, it is able to cover 310 km with the tank filled to its full capacity of 84 litres. This record-breaking figure is increased by the 45 litre petrol tank capacity: this means that the Fiat Grande Punto Natural Power can be driven for more than 1000 kilometres without refuelling. So once you have a full tank you can drive with peace of mind, and in any case it is increasingly easier to refuel with natural gas because the network of service stations is extensive and continuously expanding (the number of service stations in Italy currently stands at 630).

The new model also offers a 1.4 8v Fire unit that is already compliant with the EURO5 directive and offers low CO2 emissions (just 115 g/km) that allow customers access to the maximum state incentives (EUR 2800 and 3 years of car tax if scrapped). The promotional launch price will start from EUR 12,300, complemented by 6 years of interest-free finance (offer valid to 31 December 2009).

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Fiat Fiorino Qubo, 2009

Fiat Fiorino Qubo, 2009

 

 

 

Fiat Fiorino Qubo is the name of the new vehicle being sold by the FIAT sales network. An original name that plays on the idea of "cube", which may not always be complimentary in all contexts, but in any case clearly evokes the strong points of this model: reliability and sturdiness, as well as unique and versatile functions. Not to mention the originality of changing the C of cube to Q to tell us that this vehicle is no ordinary cube, but rather a cube with a twist.

The Fiat Fiorino Qubo is targeted at a client who is a non-conformist oriented towards substance rather than show, a strong personality who is emanates confidence of his or her own well-informed choices.

Fiat Fiorino Qubo goes well beyond the concept of the MPV to venture as a pioneer into the concept of a "free space" vehicle, capable of satisfying a variety of needs for mobility. In fact, it is a highly functional vehicle with two sliding rear side doors, flexible interiors capable of offering up to sixteen different solutions. If so desired, it is also available with a front passenger seat that can be folded into a table and then flush with the boot level, making it possible to load objects measuring nearly 2.5 metres (a true record for a vehicle that measure only 3.9 metres).

The vehicle that lets you do anything you like, just as one would expect from a multipurpose vehicle, because it is as easy to handle as a city car and as spacious and comfortable as a MPV. But when compared to an MPV, the price is better for the same versatility and more compact dimensions (3959 mm long and 1684 mm wide, this boasts the best maximum capacity boot among all the vehicles in its class).

But that's not all; Fiat Fiorino Qubo manages to offer all this and at a highly competitive price, in keeping with other segment B vehicles, while including an integrated Blue&Me communications system (hands free, vocal and steering wheel commands, on-board text messaging, and a USB port).

Sales began in France in June 2008 and will continue over the summer months in Austria and Hungary. Italy, Poland, Switzerland, and Spain were next, while an October arrival is slated for Germany, Holland, Ireland, and November for Belgium and Greece (For 2009, Great Britain and Denmark should conclude the cycle).

Distinctive exterior styling and new-concept interiors
Essential and rational, the exterior styling of the Fiat Fiorino Qubo also sets itself apart for the specific side and rear body treatments that pump up its muscular personality. In the same way, not even the bold and rugged good-looks of the front can compromise the overall impression of a "unconventional yet likeable" vehicle, just as its solid appearance and "four wheels on the ground" attitude are counterbalanced by the fluid and clean lines that ooze dynamism.

These aesthetic peculiarities are in keeping with the compact exterior dimensions - 3.96 metres long, 1.72 metres tall, and 1.68 metres wide - which when united with a steering diameter of less than 10 metres, allows the new Fiat Fiorino Qubo to negotiate narrow downtown streets or the metropolitan traffic slaloms, becoming a new ingenious alternative to the city car and compact MPVs alike.

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Renault Kangoo be bop, 2009

Renault Kangoo be bop, 2009

 

Based closely on the Renault Kangoo Compact Concept show car unveiled at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, Renault Kangoo be bop is the latest addition to the Kangoo family. The compact size (length: 3.87 metres), original two-tone colour scheme and exclusive interior appointments of this innovative vehicle combine to produce a particularly forceful personality. Its extensive glazed area and four roomy seats afford a sense of space and light. Ideal for escaping the crowd, Renault Kangoo be bop offers open-top motoring at the rear thanks to its glazed sliding roof and rear tailgate window which slides out of sight. At the front it has two tilting glass panels, plus a fixed central glass panel.

A truly original reworking of a show car
Renault Kangoo be bop came into being in the wake of the enthusiasm prompted by the Kangoo Compact Concept show car at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show. A compact leisure vehicle with an original design and strong personality, Kangoo Compact Concept showed that an unusual car could appeal to active, sporty urban dwellers who share the values of fun and friendship. In addition to its design, the originality of the concept lay in its extensive glazed area and unique convertibility solutions, with the emphasis on space and light. Renault Kangoo be bop's designers have succeeded in producing a production model which echoes the strengths and features of the concept car.

Renault Kangoo be bop has the Kangoo front end with its short bonnet and droplet-shaped headlamps. Light floods into the cabin through the sweeping, steeply raked windscreen for outstanding visibility. Renault Kangoo be bop differs from its elder sibling by being even shorter (less than four metres in length), as well as through some original styling details, such as the black headlamp masks, specific bumpers, and 16-inch alloy wheels. Ground clearance has been raised 20mm compared with Renault Kangoo, while protective side mouldings lend the look of 'urban adventurer', ready to confront the great outdoors. Its robust, expressive lines are energized by the standard two-tone colour scheme handed down from the concept car. The bonnet, grille, outside rearview mirrors, front bumper bib and tailgate panel are Sideral Grey, while the rest of the bodywork is another colour, e.g. Etincelle Orange, borrowed from Kangoo Compact Concept. Another similarity is the elongated, semi-circular form of the side windows, which make Renault Kangoo be bop instantly recognisable.The large tailgate window slides right out of sight into the door. It is operated by a switch on the instrument panel or by a third button on the ignition key, and makes it possible to access the boot without having to unlock the car or open the tailgate. The system naturally incorporates an anti-pinch safety function.

Renault Kangoo be bop features the same convertible roof configuration seen on the concept car, with a fully glazed, forward-sliding panel at the rear. With the rear section of the roof and rear window in the open position, Renault Kangoo be bop's rear passengers are able to enjoy the delights of open-air motoring. The roof opens at an angle which creates a deflecting effect to prevent bothersome turbulence while on the move. Its 'open' and 'closed' positions are secured by two side locks. It opens independently of the tailgate with the help of two small rams.

The wide, fixed middle glazed panel contributes to the cabin's brightness, while the two front tilting glass panels ensure that front-seat occupants also get a taste of the open air. Even when open, the panels do not interfere with the forward-sliding rear roof. The glazed roof panels have all been treated to filter out the sun's ultraviolet rays.

A unique ride experience
Despite its compact exterior dimensions, Renault Kangoo be bop affords an amazingly generous, warm living space. The emphasis is on space and light. Its extensive 3.9 sq. metres of glazed area (roof and windows) flood the cabin with light. Front occupants benefit from the sweeping windscreen inherited from Renault Kangoo, while the large, semi-circular side windows heighten the rear passengers' sense of travelling comfort, redolent of the tranquillity afforded by a modern high-speed train such as the TGV. The rear windows also permit excellent threequarter rear vision for manoeuvring and overtaking.

At home in town and country
At only 3.87 metres in length, Renault Kangoo be bop is perfectly at home in towns and cities. Its wheelbase is 38cm shorter than that of Renault Kangoo which permits a smaller turning circle. Renault Kangoo be bop can be turned round between kerbs just 9.7 metres apart, making it as agile as the most manoeuvrable city car.

A vehicle for leisure and pleasure, Renault Kangoo be bop is powered by engines that yield genuine driveability and which are robust, economical, and kind to the environment, including two diesel powerplants - the 85hp dCi and the 100hp dCi which comes with a particulate filter and drives through a six-speed gearbox - and the petrol 105hp 1.6 16V unit.
On certain markets, the 105hp engine is available with a particulate filter which comes with a fifth injector on the exhaust line.

The 1.6 16V petrol engine develops 105hp at 5,750rpm and maximum torque of 148Nm at 3,750rpm. It delivers outstanding driveability and low combined cycle fuel consumption (7.7 litres/100km) thanks to the use of lightweight materials and a timing system with roller cam followers.

Whether on city streets or open country roads, occupants will be reassured by Renault Kangoo be bop's safety credentials, with active safety on a par with that of a family saloon. It is equipped with Bosch ABS incorporating electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist and automatic activation of hazard lights. Bosch ESC 8.0, combined with understeer control, comes as standard on Renault Kangoo.

Renault Kangoo be bop is assembled at the ISO 14001-certified MCA Maubeuge plant in France, contains 7kg of recycled plastics (6% of its weight) and is 95% recoverable by weight (85% recyclable). Renault Kangoo be bop dCi 85 emits just 138g of CO2/km, making it perfectly eligible for the Renault eco² signature.

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Renault Fluence ZE Concept, 2009

Renault Fluence ZE Concept, 2009

 

 

 

Renault Fluence ZE Concept is a statement of Renault's intention to produce a range of zeroemission vehicles that meet the needs of all types of customer. Renault Fluence ZE Concept is a genuine family car which demonstrates that attractive styling, comfort and space can go hand in hand with respect for the environment.

Renault Fluence ZE Concept is an all-electric car with a range of 160km. The battery can be charged using one of three methods: a standard charge (between four and eight hours), a quick charge (20 minutes) or an immediate solution (three minutes) in the form of the exclusive 'Quickdrop' rapid battery exchange system.

Renault Fluence ZE Concept previews the forthcoming electric version of Fluence, and represents a solution to zero-emission motoring in the world of tomorrow.

A FAMILY FATHER LOOKING FOR AN ECOLOGICAL FAMILY CAR

You don't have to be young, rich, single, trendy and living in the city to drive an electric car. Renault has proved as much with Renault Fluence ZE Concept, a car aimed squarely at the single-car family father who would use the car every day to go to the office, but who would also want to take his wife and children to the country at the weekend. Therefore, the car needs to serve to an extent as a status symbol, but it must also provide enough interior space to function as a comfortable family car. The owner is environmentally aware, but wants to maintain his or her lifestyle and habits, too, without feeling guilty for it.

ELECTRIC MOBILITY WITH A PASSION
The styling cues of Renault Fluence ZE Concept combine the design language of motoring pleasure with the visual signature of Renault's range of electric vehicles.

Renault Fluence ZE Concept possesses dynamic lines, highlighted by a fluid character line which sweeps from the headlights to the rear shoulders. It is 4,820mm long, has a wide track of 1,672 mm, is wellproportioned and exudes status-enhancing, elegant looks.

Renault Fluence ZE Concept also clearly belongs to Renault's 'family' of electric vehicles thanks to:
    * its Atmosphere Blue body colour,
    * the specific luminous blue signature which features in the curved lower part of the body sides,
    * the use of LEDs at the front and rear,
    * the design of its headlights,
    * the recess behind the logo on the bonnet.

The headlights convey the same impression of softness suggested by the vehicle's overall lines and colour. They are a high-tech feature, too: beneath the 'eyelids' formed by the indicators, the beams of the main headlights are precise and piercing, with the light focused into a single beam by means of a system of prisms.

The vehicle's status-enhancing credentials are further emphasised by the employment of chrome trimming for the belt-line and grille, as well as by its impressive 21-inch wheels. Blue polycarbonate hubcaps seem to slot into the aluminium wheels to create a spiral form which channels the airflow and improves aerodynamic performance.

LUXURY, HARMONY AND… ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Renault Fluence ZE Concept's warmly welcoming and refined interior is based on a combination of flowing forms, the use of soft, supple materials and a mottled ambience. Passengers are comfortably seated in four enveloping seats robed in light leather upholstery. The feet rest on a light blue translucent gel mat, while the brake and accelerator pedals, too, are covered in gel for a greater sense of comfort. When the doors open, the courtesy lighting recalls the luminous blue signature of Renault's electric vehicle range.

The technology used for the dashboard is sophisticated and intuitive. A TFT (Thin Film Transistor) touchscreen displays multimedia information and essential journey-related information such as the navigation function and the location of the nearest 'Quickdrop' station. The display also provides data specific to electric vehicles, such as range optimization information.

Renault Fluence ZE Concept is not respectful of the environment simply because it runs on electricity. Indeed, the entire car has been thought through to optimize energy use:
    * the photovoltaic cells meet part of the car's energy requirements with a view to complementing the power supplied by the battery,
    * the headlights use high-performance electroluminescent diodes which deliver an excellent trade-off between efficiency and energy consumption,
    * the triple-zone climate control system allows occupants to achieve just the right settings for the two seats at the front and at the rear. The air vents also feature a dynamic lighting code, with blue representing the passage of cold air and red representing warm air,
    * the car's aerodynamics have been meticulously honed to minimize drag, including streamlined rear-view mirrors with integrated rearward facing cameras, a completely enclosed underside incorporating a diffuser at the rear, and spiral-form wheel rims,
    * Renault Fluence ZE Concept runs on low rolling resistance Michelin tyres.

THREE BATTERY-CHARGING TECHNIQUES
The driver has three options when it comes to 'filling up' on energy:
    * A standard charge: takes between four and eight hours, via a charging socket situated on the outside of the vehicle.
    * A quick charge: in 20 minutes, using the same socket at specific charging points.
    * The exclusive 'Quickdrop' system: three minutes at a rapid battery exchange station.

TECHNICAL DATA
    * MOTOR
          o Type: Electric
          o Transmission type: Direct drive with forward/reverse inverter
          o Maximum power: 70 kW (95 hp)
          o Maximum torque: 226 Nm
    * BATTERY
          o Type: Lithium-ion
          o Range : 160 km
    * STEERING
          o Power steering
          o Electric variable-rate powersteering
    * DIMENSIONS
          o Rims: 21"
          o Length: 4,820 mm
          o Width: 1,882 mm
          o Height: 1,520 mm
          o Wheelbase: 2,696 mm
          o Front/rear track: 1,672/1,672 mm
          o Front/rear overhang: 996/1,135 mm
          o Unladen weight: 1,600 kg
          o Tyres: 175/55 R21
          o Boot volume (VDA): 327 dm3
    * PARTNERS
          o Body: Protostyle
          o Tyres: Michelin
          o Sealing: Rehau
          o LED lighting: Osram

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Renault Clio Campus, 2009

Renault Clio Campus, 2009

 

Renault Clio Campus continues its European career with this month's launch of the very latest version of the model. Since 2005, it has sat alongside new Renault Clio in the range and sold in 22 countries, winning over almost 400,000 customers in Europe alone. In 2008, Renault Clio Campus' leading markets were France (40%), Italy (12%), Algeria (8%), Germany (7%) and Spain (6%). Buyers are attracted by the values championed by the Renault brand and seek a reliable car with low purchase and running costs. They will continue to find these selfsame qualities in the latest-generation version which features even more attractive styling.

New front-end styling
Renault Clio Campus features a new visual identity, with Renault's design team building on the original design which has proved so popular with customers to give it a more modern and more dynamic feel. The redesigned front bumper and grille have been redesigned. The trihedral panel behind the logo has been dropped and the bottom air intake has been modified to highlight the front end's personality. The juxtaposition of curves and horizontal lines adds a distinctly elegant note, while the foglamps are now incorporated in the bumper and crystal headlamp masks have been added. The decorative black B-pillar trimming gives a more harmonious, flowing aspect to the sweep of the side windows.

Sportier upholstery
New cloth upholstery with a black and silver interwoven pattern has been introduced for the most extensively-equipped level's sporty bucket seats. The lateral air-vents, speedometer, rev-counter, gearlever, handbrake and interior door handles are picked out in satin-finish chrome paint, while the instrument needles are red.

Two petrol engines, two diesel engines and one LPG engine (depending on markets)

The Renault Clio Campus range includes a line-up of small capacity engines which all deliver responsive performance and fuel efficiency.

Two petrol engines (1.2 60 and 1.2 16V 75) : responsive performance, economical to buy and run.

Two diesel engines: the dCi 65 and the dCi 85 both emit less than 120g of CO2/km (115g/km and 111g/km respectively).

An LPG version of the 1.2 60 engine is also available. LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is clean and economical, and produces less polluting emissions than a petrol engine, while its CO2 emissions are similar to those of a diesel powerplant (126 g/km). This quiet engine runs on either petrol or LPG, allowing the driver to switch freely from one mode to the other at any time. Its total range is consequently even longer, and a light on the dashboard tells the driver which type of fuel is being used at any given moment.

An economical, ecologically friendly vehicle
All the different versions of new Renault Clio Campus comply with the three criteria required to qualify for the Renault eco² signature. The two dCi versions are eligible for the French state's eco-bonus of €700, while the LPG version qualifies for the special €2,000 eco-bonus.

Incontestable quality and reliability
Like all the models which make up Renault's small car range, Renault Clio Campus offers best-level quality and reliability. As a model, it has come of age and its robustness and build-quality have long been widely praised. Renault Clio Campus benefits from the vast experience and expertise Renault has gained with Renault Clio II since 1998 and incorporates the very latest design standards applied by the brand to all new projects.

A compact, versatile hatchback
Renault Clio Campus is built on the same proven platform which has been so highly acclaimed since the introduction of Clio II in 1998, and today still with new Twingo since 2007. This platform delivers a first class compromise between comfort and dynamic performance, and enables Renault Clio Campus to stand out as a truly versatile hatchback.

Best-level running costs
The engines which have been selected for the range, along with its small size and contained weight, ensure that Renault Clio Campus is particularly fuel efficient. Thanks to the fitment of 14-inch tyres and widely-spaced servicing intervals (every two years/30,000km for petrol versions, or every year/30,000km for diesel versions), maintenance costs are very affordable.

A high standard of active and passive safety
Renault Clio II became the first vehicle to secure a four-star EuroNCAP crash test rating in 2001, proof that the platform on which it is based has active and passive safety built in to its DNA. ABS, emergency brake assist and adaptive front airbags are standard equipment, while Renault Clio Campus's safety credentials can be further enhanced by optional lateral head/thorax airbags.

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BMW 3-Series Coupe, 2011

BMW 3-Series Coupe, 2011

 

BMW has announced substantial enhancements to the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible, including outstanding style updates for 328i and 335i models and a new engine for 335i models. The 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible models will go on sale in Spring 2010, and pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Fundamentally unchanged are each car's essential attributes of rear-wheel drive (xDrive is available on the Coupe), near-perfect 50-50 weight distribution, remarkably precise steering, and skillfully engineered suspension…all of which conspire to produce the uniquely satisfying driving experience that is quintessentially BMW.

All-new is the engine for the 335i model. Internally designated the "N55," this turbocharged, all-aluminum engine features essentially the same "short block" and 3.0-liter displacement of its predecessor, but benefits from five additional years worth of development and refinement. The result is an engine that is more responsive, more fuel efficient, and cleaner-running than its outstanding predecessor, but preserves the previous engine's output and soul: 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and a 7,000 rpm redline. The 6-speed manual gearbox - beloved by North American enthusiast drivers - remains standard, and the well-known 6-speed Steptronic automatic is optional, now featuring "pull-style" shift paddles on the multifunction steering wheel.

Design. Reflecting the legendary distinction of BMW Coupes and Convertibles

The profile of the BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible is instantly recognizable at first glance. Beyond the basic shape of the car and its classic lines, the new design of the headlights, the enhanced depth and detail of the taillights, the interior, and even the exterior mirrors were specifically created for the Coupe and Convertible. These unique design elements reflect the sporty character of the car. The driver who chooses a two-door vehicle desires a car with dynamic looks as well as driving performance. With this in mind, BMW engineers and designers set out to create a unique, unmistakable blend of design features and most importantly, driving pleasure.

It all begins with proportions. The new, long hood powerfully symbolizes BMW's loyalty to the inherently balanced inline-6 engine. The long wheelbase, short overhangs, the passenger compartment set aft and the low, sleek roofline which seamlessly slopes into the trunk are all characteristics of the BMW Coupe and BMW retractable hardtop Convertible.

In addition to the classic proportions, three design lines—the shoulder, character and lower sill lines— enhance the sleek appearance. Both the shoulder line and character line stretch uninterrupted to the back of the car, allowing one's eye to move quickly and smoothly from front to rear along the entire length of the car. The sill line of the lower edge of the door flows into the front and rear air dams, reinforcing the dynamic nature of newest BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible.

The combination of lines flowing into one another elegantly emphasizes the vehicles' performance potential. While the shoulder line rises slightly but consistently from front to rear, the character line flows in a long, stretched arch all the way from the front fender to the new taillights. As the sill line, by contrast, moves up slightly to the rear in a slow and gentle curve, the distance between the character and sill lines becomes smaller near the rear wheel arches. The fender flare around each rear wheel also serves to give the character line extra tension in both an upward and outward direction.

Attractive new innovations at the front, side, and rear - integrated precisely into the overall look of the car- give greater emphasis to the sportiness of both models. At the same time, these modifications slightly extend the overhangs front and rear (now 1.14" and 0.12" longer, respectively), which adds a sleeker and even more athletic appearance.

The new, widened kidney grille, a signature feature of every BMW, suits the broad new hood and stands out from the surfaces around it. Interaction with the three-dimensional kidney frame creates a look of power and unique style. The frame around the kidney grille now features a chrome band precisely twisted within itself.

The BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible come standard in the U.S. with Xenon Adaptive Headlights, accented by BMW's signature corona light rings. At the top, the new headlights merge into a trim bar cutting off the light beam to create that concentrated, focused look typical of a genuine BMW. The corona rings, now powered by super-bright LED light sources, can serve as daytime running lights (if that feature is activated), and also as evening city lights, making the Coupe and Convertible instantly recognizable as a BMW, day or night. The upper edge of each headlight fixture is also illuminated by an LED light source.

The new design of the taillights is unique to the BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible. The rear light cluster feature two-piece L-shapes and are further accentuated by a new color scheme. With two rows of light tubes that illuminate simultaneously, they create a night design with depth and dimension. Integrated flush into the body of the car, the lights are split into two sections and extend up the trunk lid, blending with the character lines from the side profile. Horizontal LED tube taillights give the car an unmistakable look at night. The horizontal flowing lines accentuate the wide track and low stance of the Coupe and Convertible.

An additional horizontal contour line has been added to the rear air dam to further accentuate the width of the Coupe and Convertible. It creates light-and-shade effects to give the entire rear end a flatter and smoother appearance.

The exterior mirrors also receive a new design, adding further innovation to the unique looks of the BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible. They blend harmoniously into the side view and silhouette of each new model.

Interior: a truly stylish ambiance
The emphasis on individual style, dynamic performance and exclusivity continues within the interior. Here again, the focus is on the driving experience, as announced by the standard leather multifunction steering wheel. Horizontal lines dominate the surfaces on and around the instrument panel which blend with the lines of the center console door panels to give the interior a light but dynamic feel. In true BMW fashion, all operational and informational elements essential to driving are grouped on and around the steering wheel. Climate controls, as well as those for the audio and navigation systems, are within easy reach of the front passenger.

Because the Coupe and Convertible are four-passenger cars, the rear seat passengers are treated to a center console between their individual rear seats which includes individual storage boxes, additional air outlet vents, and footwell lights.

The BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible come standard with Dark Burl Walnut wood trim. As a choice, Bamboo Anthracite wood, Light Burl Walnut wood, and Aluminum trim are optional. Like the standard Dark Burl Walnut, these materials appear on the dash, front and rear consoles, doors and rear side panels.

The standard leatherette upholstery is available in Black and Creme Beige. For the optional leather upholstery, luxurious Dakota leather can be chosen. Here too, the buyer may choose Creme Beige, Oyster, Coral Red, Saddle Brown, Gray, or Black. Upholstery leather appears on the seat facings, door inserts and door handle surrounds; other leather-trimmed items include the gear shift boot, handbrake grip and steering wheel.

In other items of trim that don't change with upholstery or trim options, the interior door handles, gearshift surround trim, steering wheel spokes, instrument dial and engine Start/Stop button surrounds, dash air-outlet adjusting tabs and the optional iDrive controller are in pearl-gray galvanic material.

An elegant ambiance is further created in the interior by special lighting and switches with a premium look and feel. Ambiance lighting, streaming down from under the ledge on the door and side panels, and running from the A pillar all the way to the rear passenger area, creates a particularly warm, indirect lighting effect.

Through its design and configuration, the cabin emphasizes the sporting and driver-oriented character of the BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible. Taking a seat behind the steering wheel, the driver's eyes will immediately focus on the instrument cluster.

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Bentley Mulsanne, 2011

Bentley Mulsanne, 2011

 

  

 

While paying homage to past Bentley greats, the brief for the new Bentley Mulsanne design and engineering teams was to create a Bentley that represents the pinnacle of British luxury motoring.
The new Bentley Mulsanne, designed and engineered at Crewe from the ground-up, reaffirms the marque's intent to create a new flagship Bentley with refined performance, unparalleled levels of interior luxury and coach building skills to the fore.

The return of the Mulsanne name underlines Bentley's sporting heritage and passion for power and speed. Nothing reflects that prowess better than the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours, a race that Bentley has won on six occasions, where its powerful and reliable race cars thundered down the long Le Mans straight into the famous Mulsanne corner, from which the new model takes its name.

A pure expression of Bentley design
The design of the new Bentley Mulsanne is a unique fusion of sportiness, coachbuilt elegance and solidity. Echoing the Bentley S-Type of the 1950s, the Mulsanne features a bold frontal design dominated by the traditional Bentley matrix grille and highly prominent, classic round inner headlamps with chrome surrounds, flanked by two, smaller outboard lamp clusters, all featuring the latest in lighting technology. The iconic 'Flying B' retractable radiator mascot is available as an option.

The long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang help to convey a sense of power and movement, reinforced by muscular haunches and sharply sculptured lines which flow gracefully from the front wings to the rear. Uniquely designed 20-inch wheels (and optional 21-inch) reinforce the Bentley Mulsanne's powerful, sporting stance.

Design Director Dirk van Braeckel explains the inspiration behind the Bentley Mulsanne's distinctive appearance: "The opportunity to design a new flagship Bentley is something afforded to very few designers. The team set out to create a sculpted form that blended classic Bentley heritage cues with modern lines that allow the marque to stride confidently into the 21st century."

The body is produced in a new manufacturing facility at Bentley's headquarters in Crewe where traditional metalworking skills, developed over six decades, are still used extensively during the nine-week build process. It is the very opposite of volume-production car-building… but the very epitome of Bentley.

The rear screen, for example is fully enveloped by the coachwork. This provides a flowing, flawless line to the rear of the car, complementing the exquisitely formed D-pillars - whose complex curves can only be created by skilled coach-builders. All spot welds are performed by hand during the Bentley Mulsanne's construction and all panel joints are hand-brazed. These further enhance that 'hewn from solid' appearance and result in an extremely stiff body.

The complex form of the aluminium front wings, impossible to achieve with normal pressing techniques, is created using superforming, a technology usually reserved for the aerospace industry. This also makes the wings both lighter, stiffer and provides superb surface definition. Other lightweight materials, such as the composite bootlid, are used to remove mass wherever possible without compromising quality.

New construction techniques meant the designers could also incorporate details such as the 'floating' elliptical LED tail lights, which uniquely echo the shape of the exhaust tailpipes.

To accentuate the beauty of the bodywork, the Bentley Mulsanne features 'brightware' exclusively in polished stainless steel, including sill treadplates and matrix grilles. Bentley is the only manufacturer in the world to do this. The stainless steel door handles also incorporate the traditional Bentley 'knurling' to their inboard surface for enhanced grip, reflecting the company's typical attention to detail.

The sporting character of the Bentley Mulsanne is reinforced by front wing vents and large diameter tailpipe finishers.

Sumptuous interior meets advanced technology
The latest in-car technologies are discreetly placed within the Bentley Mulsanne's sumptuous interior. A multimedia system with 40 GB hard disc drives satellite navigation, audio/video, personal data, telephone and Bluetooth® connectivity. The upper dashboard houses an 8-inch multimedia screen, positioned unobtrusively behind an electrically operated veneered door, while below sits a stylish, leather-lined MP3-player stowage drawer.

A state-of-the-art 14-speaker audio system with Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and 6-CD autochanger is provided as standard while the Naim for Bentley premium audio system may be specified as an option. This forging of two British luxury brands provides customers with the world's most powerful 2200 Watt in-car amplifier, eight dedicated DSP modes and 20 custom-made speakers, delivering an unparalleled sound quality.

A personalised keyless entry system allows multiple pre-programmed configurations and automatically sets radio stations, phone book, seat (including ventilation and massage modes, both front and rear), steering column and seatbelt settings and even the electrically operated rear-seat blinds for side and rear windows. As a world-first, the keyless system operates with the stainless steel door handles which incorporate touch points to initiate communication with the key for verification and entry. The Bentley Mulsanne also features keyless start, having a stop/start button on the centre console.

The Bentley interior design team has continued to develop and evolve the luxurious interiors for which their cars are renowned, based on a large-scale, research programme to identify the classic signature features that have defined Bentleys from the 1920s to the present day.

Armed with this invaluable resource, the Bentley Mulsanne's design team set itself highly challenging targets for key interior characteristics such as material design, smell, colour harmony and handcrafting. Similar targets were set for the operational refinement and robustness of all control mechanisms. The result is a hand crafted interior that fully reflects traditional Bentley values, executed to the highest possible standards, where customers may tailor their cars to their individual specification.

As Head of Interior Design, Robin Page says: "Over 170 hours - almost half the entire build process - goes into crafting the interior of the new Bentley Mulsanne. At Crewe, Bentley's way of working is the opposite of mass production - we start where others stop."

The use of wood and leather hides has increased significantly to create an even more refined and luxurious cabin. While classic design features such as bulls-eye air vents (now also fitted in the rear compartment), high-quality mirror-matched wood veneers, leather hides and hand-finished stainless steel are retained, they are mixed with new touches such as beautiful glass switches.

The entire cabin is encased within a 'ring of wood' waistrail with an unbroken panel of wood gracing the Bentley Mulsanne's dashboard. Inverted dial needles within the instrument cluster are evocative of early Bentleys while the entire dashboard and console design is a subtle reminder of the Bentley wings motif.

The Bentley powertrain engineers were set three objectives for the Bentley Mulsanne:
   1. To produce the effortless torque from extremely low revs that customers expect of a grand Bentley
   2. To maintain the highest levels of refinement
   3. To satisfy strict current and future environmental standards through improved engine efficiency

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VW Amarok, 2011

VW Amarok, 2011

 

 

The Volkswagen Amarok.
Production of the Volkswagen Amarok is about to start at the Volkswagen factory in Buenos Aires.
The Volkswagen Amarok has a generous payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes and maximum towing limit of 2.8 tonnes. Its 2.52 m² cargo area has the largest dimensions in its class at 1,555 mm long and 1,620 mm wide, plus a best in class width between the wheelarches of 1,222 mm, which means that for the first time on a mid-size pick-up, it is possible to load Euro pallets sideways, saving on space.

The official photos show the Volkswagen Amarok reflects the latest Volkswagen design DNA with frontal styling in line with the latest Transporter and Golf. It is 5.25 m long with a ladder frame chassis and will be offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive and switchable or permanent 4MOTION all-wheel drive.
For maximum convenience, the switchable all-wheel drive is engaged by the push of a button, and also has low off-road gearing.

Designed to tackle the toughest off-road terrain, the VW Amarok is offered with an electronic differential lock (EDL) and Off-Road ABS to significantly shorten braking distances in off-road conditions or gravel roads. At speeds of under 20 mph it also activates Hill Descent Assist to control hill descents by using selective braking interventions. Furthermore, the ESP Plus system includes Hill Hold Assist, which prevents the vehicle from rolling back by holding it in place on inclines until the driver presses the accelerator pedal.

Under the bonnet there will be a choice of two 2.0-litre fuel-efficient, Euro5 compliant, common rail TDI engines producing 163 PS, with torque of 400 Nm at a low 1,500 rpm, or 122 PS with maximum torque of 340 Nm from 2,000 rpm.

Both engines have a 6-speed manual transmission and will have impressive fuel economy with low emissions to make the Volkswagen Amarok the first all-wheel drive pick-up in this class offering CO2 emissions of less than 200 g/km.
Like the new Transporter and Caravelle, the Volkswagen Amarok has a gearchange indicator to help drivers achieve the best fuel economy, which with an 80-litre fuel tank should offer a range of over 600 miles.

The large and ergonomically designed interior is the largest in its class and in many ways resembles that of a Volkswagen passenger car. Easy entry, lots of headroom and ample legroom for passengers on the rear bench seat make the Volkswagen Amarok a fully-fledged five-seater. If only two people are travelling, interior storage space can be increased by folding the rear seat.

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