Fisker Karma, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fisker Karma, 2012

From the California automaker Fisker Automotive comes the Fisker Karma, the world's first true Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer) and a radical expression of what is possible in the automotive world.

Loosely translating from Hindi, Karma implies good deeds are rewarded. The Fisker Karma allows drivers who appreciate style and performance to own and enjoy a car that is also environmentally conscious, one that achieves fuel consumption and emissions performance that is simply beyond the capability of today's conventional luxury automobiles.
Combining striking, elegant design with high performance, ultra-low fuel consumption and zero emissions on demand, the four-door, four-seat Fisker Karma embodies the brand's commitment to creating Uncompromised Responsible Luxury vehicles that deliver Pure Driving Passion.

The Fisker Karma - an all-new car with all-new technology from an all-new company - arrives in showrooms this summer, setting a new benchmark for time-to-market after being unveiled as a concept in 2008 and creating the Premium Luxury EV segment.
The Fisker Karma can run purely on electric power supplied by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery for up to 50 miles (80 km); after that, a 175 kW generator driven by an efficient, 2.0 liter, direct-injection, turbocharged gasoline engine extends the range an additional 250 miles (403 km). The Fisker Karma's total range between recharge/refuel can reach 300 miles.

With a U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $95,900 before federal tax incentives of $7,500, and a €85,500 suggested retail price in Europe, the world-class Fisker Karma will be competitive with more conventional luxury sedans such as the BMW 750i AcitveHybrid, Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid, Porsche Panamera S and Audi A8 TDI. Fisker Karma also offers a tremendous value over such super sedans as the $120,000 Maserati Quattroporte and $200,000 Aston Martin Rapide.

With incredible economy, and the ability to drive tailpipe-emission free, the Fisker Karma is the only truly responsible choice for luxury car buyers.
The Karma is Fisker Automotive's first car. It is built according to the company's
Fisker understands that developing, building, marketing and disposing of cars is an incredibly energy- and resource-intensive proposition. As a new company starting with a clean slate, Fisker sees great opportunity to improve this process and reimagine what the world can expect of its automakers.

By adamantly pursuing ways to raise efficiency and reduce environmental impact - including its carbon footprint - across the entire value chain, Fisker Automotive is striving to be the automaker most dedicated to sustainability and accountability.
The Fisker Karma and all future Fisker vehicles will be sold and serviced through a global network of established, reputable, independent retailers. In the U.S., 45 locations have been identified, with a similar number planned for European markets.

Fisker's European retail network is being developed and will be managed by importers like the Emil Frey Group in Zurich, Switzerland, and Nellemann in Copenhagen, Denmark. Fisker Italia in Merano, Italy, and BD Otomotive in Istanbul, Turkey, round out the company's presence on the continent. Fisker also entered into a non-exclusive distribution agreement with China Grand Automotive in Shanghai in December, 2010.
Significantly, the Fisker Karma is the first American-designed and engineered luxury vehicle specifically developed to appeal to world markets. It is the only luxury sedan in the world that meets future fuel consumption and emission requirements, making it suitable for any international city.

True EVer
The Fisker Karma is the first and only true production Electric Vehicle with extended range (EVer). Simply put, that means the Karma is driven solely and at all times by electric traction motors. An on-board range-extending gasoline engine drives a generator to power the motors as needed; there is no mechanical link between the internal-combustion engine and the drive wheels.

The exclusive EVer powertrain was inspired by a high-performance stealth vehicle created for U.S. Military special operations. At its heart is a 20 kWh rechargeable lithium-ion battery developed by Fisker Automotive's strategic partner A123 Systems of Watertown, Massachusetts. State-of-the-art Nanophosphate technology maximizes energy, power, reliability and safety.

Running on the battery alone - which can be charged in about six hours using Fisker's available 220V wall charger - the Fisker Karma can cover 50 miles (80 km); after that, the range extender - a front/mid-mounted gasoline engine/generator set - provides another 250 miles of range by supplying supplemental power to dual rear-mounted electric motors, for a total range of 300 miles (483 km).

The Fisker Karma contributes to sustainability even when parked, with the world's largest and most powerful automotive solar panel integrated into its roof, as standard. It is the only solar installation on a production vehicle that collects energy to be stored. Enough energy can be collected by the roof over the course of a year to power the Fisker Karma for nearly 200 cost- and emission-free miles.

Two Driving Modes
The Fisker Karma is also the first and only car that allows the driver to manually select all-electric or hybrid-electric drive modes on demand. The default Stealth mode maximizes efficiency, giving the car its greatest range on battery power before activating the gas engine-driven generator to sustain battery charge. In Stealth mode, the Fisker Karma can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h).

More telling of the Fisker Karma's acceleration capability and feel, however, is the massive 981 lb.-ft. (1,330 Nm) of peak torque available instantaneously (from zero rpm). By comparison, most conventionally-powered luxury sedans develop less than half of that torque and at a much higher rpm. Because the Karma is always driven by its electric motors and a single-ratio transmission/differential combination, the driver can always feel and enjoy powerful, seamless, linear acceleration.
A single pull on the Fisker Karma's left-hand steering wheel paddle engages Sport mode. Now the gasoline engine drives the generator to provide additional current that supplements that from the battery. This is enough electricity for 403 total system horsepower, allowing the Karma to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).

The electric motors' torque characteristics, the Fisker Karma will feel even quicker.
Sport mode conserves, and in certain circumstances replenishes, battery charge. The driver can switch back to Stealth mode at any time; this can be useful when arriving in low-emission zones, which are being designated in many cities around the world.

The Fisker Karma also features a fully-blended regenerative braking system. Regenerative braking captures kinetic energy that would otherwise be wasted as brake-rotor heat, and feeds it back into the battery. Using the right-hand steering wheel paddle, the driver can operate Hill Mode to vary regenerative braking effect in three steps; this unique function provides an effect similar to downshifting a conventional car's transmission to offer varied levels of speed control. Hill Mode is ideal for downhill grades and can be used to shorten braking distances.

Read More

Porsche Boxster Spyder, 2010

 

 

 

 Porsche Boxster Spyder, 2010

This is precisely the formula already applied in creating the most successful road-going sports and racing cars throughout the history of Porsche, ranging from the legendary Porsche 550 Spyder of the 1950s to the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype race car so successful in motorsport today.

Weighing 1,275kg, the Porsche Boxster Spyder is the lightest model in the Porsche line-up, and continues this clear-cut philosophy in a package offering full homologation for the road, reflecting a common wish expressed by Porsche customers.

The new model becomes the third version in the Boxster range, joining the Boxster and Boxster S, yet stands out clearly at first sight from the other versions of the mid-engined roadster, quite simply because the Spyder has been developed first and foremost for driving in the open air. The low-slung, lightweight soft top extends far to the rear and serves to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and rain. When closed, the soft top, together with the bespoke extra-low side windows and the two unique, striking bulges on the single-piece rear lid, boasts a stretched and sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Porsche Carrera GT.

The new model weighs 80kg less than the Porsche Boxster S which, combined with a lower centre of gravity and revised suspension, gives the Porsche Boxster Spyder the calibre of driving dynamics that clearly reflect the unique look of the car.

The Porsche Boxster Spyder features a tuned version of the proven 3.4-litre flat six 'boxer' engine with Direct Fuel Injection, which is located ahead of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 bhp, 10 bhp more than in the Boxster S.

Equipped with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) twin-clutch transmission and the Sports Chrono Package, the Porsche Boxster Spyder, using Launch Control, accelerates from a standstill to 62mph in 4.8 seconds. Again with optional PDK, fuel consumption is a mere 30.4mpg (9.3 litres/100km) in the NEDC New European Driving Cycle and top speed, in turn, is 166 mph (267 km/h) - with the roof removed.

In terms of its fundamental concept, the entire Boxster family is the successor to the legendary 550 Spyder built back in 1953, both models sharing the same mid-engined roadster concept offering low weight and supreme agility combined with equally outstanding driving pleasure - in essence, an authentic roadster experience.

The 550 Spyder was the first Porsche sports car from Stuttgart developed specifically for racing but also homologated for the road. Weighing only 550kg, this unique Spyder scored numerous victories in the years following its production on the race circuits and in road races popular at the time. The 550 Spyder was followed by other extremely successful Porsche Spyders, such as the 718 RS 60 in 1960.

In 2004 and 2008 Porsche dedicated a limited edition of special Boxsters bearing the additional name Spyder, inspired by these legendary racing cars. By contrast, the new Porsche Boxster Spyder is a regular, specially developed and upgraded production model with far-reaching modifications versus the Boxster and Boxster S.

Market introduction of the new Porsche Boxster Spyder started worldwide in February 2010, and priced from £44,643 in the UK. Included in the purchase price is the invitation for customers to explore the dynamic attributes of their Porsche Boxster Spyder, and develop their own skills behind the wheel, courtesy of a Driving Experience Programme at the Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone.

Read More

Audi A5 DTM, 2012

 

 

 

Audi A5 DTM, 2012

On the eve of the 2011 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt Audi presented the new Audi A5 DTM: After the V8 quattro (1990 to 1992) and the A4 (2004 to 2011) the brand with the four rings has opted to use a two-door coupe in the most popular international touring car series for the first time.

The new Audi A5 DTM, which bears the internal project name "R17" at Audi Sport, conforms to the new Technical Regulations that will come into effect in the 2012 season. The project was premised on three key aims: the safety of the vehicles, reduction of the costs by up to 40 percent and a spectacular exterior design.
 

The Audi A5 DTM appears lower and sturdier than its successful predecessor with which Audi has won four of the last seven DTM titles. Underneath the body, which is completely made of carbon, a new type of chassis features a hybrid construction. The combination of a carbon fiber monocoque and steel cage sets new standards in terms of safety for a race touring car. In addition, the chassis is one of more than 50 components which are identical for all DTM vehicles.

The Audi A5 DTM is 5.01 meters long, 1.95 meters wide and 1.15 meters low. The wheelbase of all DTM vehicles is identical, i.e. 2,750 millimeters. Like its predecessor, the A5 DTM is powered by a V8 engine with an output of about 340 kW (460 HP). The six-speed transmission, now pneumatically operated using paddle shifters in the steering wheel, is a new development. The shifting events are more precise compared with conventional manual gearshifts and allow the mileage of the unit to be quadrupled to up to 24,000 kilometers.

The engine electronics (Bosch MS 5.1), which operate without fuses, and the central display that is already being used in the Audi R8 LMS are state-of-the-art as well. The exclusive tire partner Hankook is supplying larger and wider tires with dimensions resembling those of LMP2 sports cars.

A safety fuel tank with a capacity of 120 liters is integrated with the carbon fiber cell of the Audi A5 DTM. It would allow the current distance of a DTM race to be covered without a refueling stop. For longer races a quick refueling system is in development.

The engine sub-frame at the front and the transmission at the rear are identical for all DTM cars and limit the freedom of the engineers with respect to the suspension, which has to be mounted to these shared components. In addition, steel as the material for the A-arms and the tube dimensions are specified. For the hub carrier, the regulations define the material and the production process to be used. A milled aluminum part with a minimum weight is prescribed. Furthermore, a strict provision in the regulations defines the wheel hubs and the rims for all entrants.

The possibilities in the area of aerodynamics are restricted as well. Air flow through the body, as in the case of the current A4 DTM, and complex additional wings at the rear are no longer allowed. This creates a stronger visual resemblance between the race car and the production model. At the same time the new DTM vehicles are to respond less sensitively to body contact with other vehicles and deliver slipstream improvements - also thanks to the larger rear wing.

Read More

Suzuki G70 Concept, 2012

 

Suzuki G70 Concept, 2012

Suzuki is showcasing the G70 at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. This model made its debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show as the REGINA, and it now wears a G70 badge which originates from a nickname adopted during the development process. While the goal of reducing CO2 emissions is an absolute must throughout automotive development, Suzuki also believes that A-segment models should always be customer-responsive. With this in mind, Suzuki has focused on developing an A-segment car with CO2 emissions no higher than 70g/km for market launch in the near future, featuring - as the name suggests - the G70's environmental technologies.

Though the Suzuki G70 is a petrol model, its fuel economy and emissions are on a par with those of a hybrid, thanks to its weight of just 730kg and a drag coefficient more than 10% lower than that of a Suzuki A-segment production model. It also features a direct-injection turbo petrol engine and an Engine Auto Stop Start system with regenerative braking. All in all, the G70's CO2 emissions do not exceed 70g/km.

Platform
The Suzuki G70's platform is light but rigid, since it has more curves than a conventional platform. The components and materials used in the G70 also reflect an uncompromising focus on lightness. As a result, the G70 weighs a mere 730kg (more than 100kg less than the Suzuki Alto).

The Advanced aerodynamics
The shape of the G70 means excellent aerodynamics and greater interior comfort. A relatively upright windscreen ensures good forward visibility while directing air smoothly over the top and sides of the body. Other drag-reducing details include rear combination lamps which ensure a smooth airflow toward the rear and C-pillar garnishes which steer and adjust the airflow. The G70's drag coefficient is more than 10% lower than that of a Suzuki A-segment production model.

Powertrain
The environmental benefits of the Suzuki G70's lightness and low running resistance are complemented by a highly efficient 800cm3 turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine with CVT.

Other fuel-saving technologies
An Engine Auto Stop Start system with regenerative braking saves fuel effectively by storing and reusing the G70's kinetic energy during deceleration.

The Exterior
The Suzuki G70 is not just another car with environmental features: it also has a distinctive character deriving from its "emotional" styling. The design language focuses on "premium casual", which can be interpreted as mature elegance and fine quality. The use of transparent materials and relatively bright colours creates an airy impression and succeeds in expressing the quality of a compact car with less of an environmental burden.

The Interior
A stylish, futuristic cabin incorporates a unique floating interface which provides information on navigation, audio and climate control. A transparent touch-panel display makes the information easy to read and allows easy inputs. The G70 uses the floating interface to recommend destinations and music in line with the driver's preferences - which it infers from journey data and search records. It also uses the floating interface to show friends driving nearby on a map and enables the driver to share route information with them. Driving can be much more enjoyable with this infotainment system prompted by the G70.

Technical specifications

•     Overall length: 3,550mm
•     Overall width: 1,630mm
•     Overall height: 1,430mm
•     Wheelbase: 2,425mm
•     Seating capacity: 4 persons
•     Power unit: 800cm3 direct-injection turbo petrol engine; Engine Auto Stop Start system with regenerative braking
•     Weight: 730kg
•     Transmission: CVT. Front-engine/front-wheel drive

Read More

Toyota Avensis, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 Toyota Avensis, 2012

The new Toyota Avensis builds on the spaciousness, practicality and fuel efficiency of the current, third generation model.

It features a bolder and more refined exterior design, and interior improvements to finish quality, comfort and Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). Driving dynamics have been enhanced, and a revised grade structure offers even greater value for money. In addition to that Toyota is introducing the Touch and Go Plus, a further advancement of its existing affordable multimedia system.

The best-selling variant of the Toyota Avensis' six engine line-up, the 2.0 D-4D turbodiesel, has been revised to deliver significant improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. With a tax threshold set at 120 g/km in almost a third of European countries, the 2.0 D-4D's 119 g/km brings generous tax benefits to both private and fleet buyers.

With a choice of two body styles, three diesel and three petrol engines, three transmissions and four model grades, the Toyota Avensis has been specifically tailored to the European market. The D-segment demonstrates a 70% focus on diesel powertrains, a 64% bias in favour of fleet sales and a preference for the wagon body style with over 50% of customers.

EXTERIOR DESIGN ? Elegance and Refinement
Both sedan and wagon versions of the Toyota Avensis are just 15 mm longer than their predecessors, but have been extensively restyled to give them a more elegant and athletic appearance.

The Toyota Avensis represents the first implementation of a new Toyota design language which is based on two key pillars: Under Priority frontal design featuring a trapezoid grille opening, which focuses attention on the lower part of the car for a distinctive, more assertive appearance, and a Keen Look approach for clear, intelligent and expressive styling.

A bolder, more refined frontal treatment features the distinctive new face of the next generation Toyota family. Key to the new Under Priority design direction is a change in the proportions of the upper and lower grilles, with the emphasis now placed on enlarging the latter for a dynamic, more aggressive look.
Beneath a wider and more powerful upper grille design, the lower bumper has been expressively sculpted with a strong, protruding centre section housing a large air intake to give the vehicle a wider stance.

In conjunction with the crisp, Keen Look detailing of integral foglamp pockets placed at the bumper extremities, the design gives the Toyota Avensis a wider, more purposeful stance and a more ground-hugging appearance.

Narrower, more expressive headlamps emphasise the sleek, elegant proportions of the new design. The new headlamps now incorporate Daytime Running Lights, strengthening the Keen Look styling of the new front treatment.
To the rear, the Toyota Avensis sedan features a newly designed rear bumper incorporating a centre guard. A new, sleeker, chromed license garnish design adds a further touch of elegance.

Using LED technology to emphasise the Avensis' Keen Look detailing, both combination lamp clusters and foglamps have been restyled for greater prominence and visibility, reinforcing the wide, stable stance of the new design.

New wheel treatments and an expanded colour range further enhance the Toyota Avensis' exterior design. 16" steel wheels feature a new cap design, whilst the existing 16" and 17" Fuji alloy wheels have been enhanced through new colour and machine facings treatment resulting in a dual-tone colour effect. The other 17" and 18" alloys also benefit from a new, darker colour treatment.

One new exterior colour has been added to the range; the standard Red being replaced by a deep, premium Dark Red which brings added maturity to the new model range.

INTERIOR DESIGN ? 

Sophistication and Comfort
Within a cabin already praised for its comfort, roominess and practicality, the Toyota Avensis benefits from improved perceived quality across the model range, and upgraded upholstery in a choice of new colours.

The appearance, touch and feel of the entire dashboard have been improved. The centre console layout has been redesigned to improve the switchgear layout and operability. The central air vents have been redesigned and now share the new metal paint finish of the centre console itself, and the side air vents have become chrome trimmed.

The tactile quality and feel of frequently handled parts such as the door trim gripping area, switchgear and the front console all benefit from new, higher quality ornamentation. The driver's instrument dial backlighting has been changed from amber to a higher quality white, and the rear console box lid upholstery has been changed from polyurethane to leather.

The front seatback side support shape has been redesigned for better lateral holding performance, greater comfort and reduced fatigue, and the seat upholstery has been upgraded throughout the model range.

Entry level fabric seat upholstery has been enhanced to offer higher, Sol grade trim quality, Sol grade fabric now features Executive grade trim, Executive grade fabric has been upgraded to a newly introduced Alcantara finish, and Premium grade seats are now finished with high quality perforated leather inserts for improved comfort.

Lightening the overall ambience within the Toyota Avensis' cabin, the leather upholstery is available in a choice of two new colours, Light Grey and Warm Grey in addition to the already existing Black one.

MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM ? Affordable Touch Screen Interface
The Toyota Avensis benefits from Toyota's unique range of affordable, touch-screen multimedia equipment; Toyota Touch, and the Toyota Touch & Go and Toyota Touch & Go Plus navigation systems.

Toyota Touch
Designed from scratch with all-new hardware and software, Toyota Touch is a 6.1 inch, full colour, touch screen interface which gives centralised control of numerous vehicle functions as well as connectivity to external devices such as mobile phones and portable music players.

Fitted as standard to the Toyota Avensis from Sol grade, Toyota Touch is designed to offer the widest possible range of interactive functions without the added expense of an integral satellite navigation system.

Toyota Touch & Go
Building on the Toyota Touch multimedia base unit and unique to the mainstream market, Toyota Touch & Go offers customers a full map navigation system which represents the best value for money on the market.

Available in 14 languages, Toyota Touch & Go was developed in Europe, with European customers in mind.

Considerably less expensive than traditional multimedia systems, it includes all the most popular navigation functions, such as advanced traffic coverage, and speed and safety camera warnings.
Using a compatible mobile phone, via Bluetooth, Toyota Touch & Go also offers on-board connectivity to Google Local Search -the largest and most up-to-date search database in the world.

Via Google Maps, destinations may be input remotely from home or office, and Points of Interest may be downloaded for entry as destinations.
The installation of Touch & Go also upgrades the multimedia base unit with the addition of an SMS on-screen send and receive function incorporating a contact person image display.

Several Apps are already available to download, including fuel prices, weather and parking space information.
Toyota Touch & Go has been designed specifically to be both affordable and flexible. The system can be easily updated with the newest functions, updated maps and the latest Apps, as they become available.

Toyota Touch & Go Plus
Fitted as standard to Premium grade models and making its world debut in the Toyota Avensis, Touch & Go Plus adds numerous new, advanced technology features to Toyota's remarkable touch-screen multimedia system.
It features advanced voice recognition for navigation address input, one-shot destination entry, music search and play, and phone contact search and call.

Avensis Grade
The current generation Avensis' generous standard equipment specification is enhanced by the adoption of integral daytime running lights and USB connectivity. Seat upholstery quality has been upgraded by the addition of Sol grade trim, and the sensory quality of the centre console has been improved with a new, silver upper panel and matt black lower panel paint finish.

An expanded options list now features front foglamps, and a Comfort Pack which includes cruise control, a leather steering wheel and a 6-speaker CD stereo system with Bluetooth connectivity.

Sol Grade
To the enhanced Avensis grade specification, Sol grade adds Executive grade quality seat trim, an all-silver centre console paint finish and machine-faced 16" and 17" alloy wheels. The Toyota Touch Display Audio is equipped with a rear parking camera.
Options include the Touch & Go navigation system, rear parking sensors, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) and a panoramic roof.

Executive Grade
To the improved Sol grade standard specification, Executive grade adds a nickel and wood centre console finish, Alcantara seat trim with leather bolsters, and a new, darker coloured 17" alloy wheel finish.

Amongst the options available are an 11-speaker Display Audio system with rear parking camera, a choice of Touch & Go or Touch & Go Plus navigation systems, High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) on 2.2 litre versions with automatic transmission and a Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system incorporating Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning.

Premium Grade
Further augmenting the Executive grade specification, Premium grade adds perforated leather upholstery in a choice of Ice Grey, Warm Grey or Black colours. Ice Grey is combined with a bright silver centre console finish, Warm Grey and Black with a warm nickel finish.

High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), a Touch & Go Plus navigation system, an 11-speaker Display Audio system with rear parking camera and new dark finish 18" alloy wheels are all fitted as standard.

DRIVING PERFORMANCE ? Enhanced Driving Dynamics and Improved 2.0 D-4D
Further improvements to ride comfort and driving dynamics were fundamental goals in the development of the Toyota Avensis.

The new Toyota Avensis benefits from increased body rigidity, improved aerodynamics and NVH insulation, greater seat comfort, revised front and rear suspension, and an improved Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. In combination, these engineering enhancements deliver greater ride comfort, improved handling agility, and the promise of a more engaging driving experience.

The best-selling variant of the Avensis' six engine line-up, the 2.0 D-4D turbodiesel, has been revised to deliver significant improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This not only lowers the Total Cost of Ownership, but also -with a tax threshold set at 120 g/km in almost a third of European countries and the 2.0 D-4D generating just 119 g/km- brings generous tax benefits to both private and fleet buyers.

Increased Body Rigidity
The use of high-tensile steel in key locations throughout the bodyshell combines light weight with high structural rigidity. Spot welding points have been added to the rear door and luggage compartment openings to further enhance body rigidity and steering stability.

Enhanced Aerodynamics and Low Rolling Resistance Tyres
The comprehensive use of aerodynamics components throughout the exterior both enhances handling stability and agility and -through low drag coefficients of just Cd 0.28 for the sedan and 0.29 for the wagon- helps reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Allied to the use of extensive underbody covers, front and rear wheel arch spats and a rear boot lip spoiler, the new Avensis benefits from the adoption of an aero-step design to the front bumper to suppress lift and turbulence. In addition, aero-stabilising fins located at the base of the A pillar and integral to the design of the new rear combination lamps help smooth the flow of air down the sides of the vehicle and away from the rear, enhancing stability.

Without sacrificing ride comfort, handling performance, noise or braking distance, both the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions performance of 2.0 D-4D versions equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filer (DPF) are further improved by the adoption of low rolling resistance tyres.

Improved Seat Comfort and NVH Insulation
Front seat comfort has been improved through a change in the shape of the seatback side support, enhancing both initial fitting comfort and lateral support when cornering.
All occupants further benefit from substantial improvements to sound insulation in the Toyota Avensis, which help to deliver a quieter, more refined cabin environment.

The shape of the dashboard inner silencer has been changed to reduce the gap and it has been extended in the transmission tunnel area, the heavy layer dash inner silencer has been extended upwards, the heavy layer floor carpet has been extended towards the inner dash silencer, and sound absorption material has been added to the fresh air duct.

The additional insulation significantly reduces noise transmission from the engine bay, most notably in conjunction with the noise reduction improvements to the turbo charger, glow control and combustion chambers of the 2.0 D-4D engine.

Read More

Chrysler 200 S, 2011

 

 

 

Chrysler 200 S, 2011

The new Chrysler 200 series vehicles provide customers elegant, well-crafted mid-size vehicles with an extraordinary level of standard content and an exhilarating driving experience. From the ground up, the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan and convertible have been redesigned and upgraded to deliver great American design and engineering, with a value proposition that exceeds expectations.

The Chrysler 200 S Sedan
With an elegant style, refined ride and handling characteristics, an exquisitely-crafted interior, a new powertrain and an abundance of standard safety features, the Chrysler 200 sedan is beautifully inspired and a remarkable value. The Chrysler 200 provides drivers a little more style and elegance in segment traditionally known for its "sea of sameness."

Distinctive exterior design elements exclusive to the S model include a unique front grille with an S model-only Chrysler winged badge with a black background, body color mirrors and door handles, black background headlamps for a little extra attitude, distinctive 18-in. aluminum wheels with dark painted pockets and "S" badging.

The interior exclusive design features include a perforated leather steering wheel; leather, heated front seats with Digital suede inserts and an embroidered "S" on the front head rests; suede door trim bolsters; a black headliner and a standard Boston Acoustic sound system with a 276-watt CD/DVD/MP3/30 gigabyte hard drive media center with Uconnect® voice command.

The new 2011 Chrysler 200 provides drivers an agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work, a weekend adventure on twisty roads or going out with family and friends. Virtually every part of the suspension has been re-engineered or redesigned for 2011, including 26 of 30 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.

The 2011 Chrysler 200 S sedan is powered by the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which produces a best-in-class horsepower rating of 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, but still achieves an exceptional 29 miles per gallon EPA highway fuel economy rating The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transaxle.

Cabin quietness has been upgraded, resulting in one of the quietest cabins in the segment, and allowing passengers to enjoy their conversations, largely devoid of outside noise. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) were reduced and 45 new sound deadening treatments were added, including an acoustic glass windshield, laminated side glass usually only found in higher priced vehicles and new sound absorption materials throughout the vehicle.

Chrysler 200 S model sedans are available to order now and will begin arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the second quarter of 2011.

Chrysler 200 S Convertible
The new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible offers consumers an open-air driving experience featuring elegant craftsmanship inside and out, a fun, yet refined driving experience, innovative technology, an abundance of standard safety features and an extraordinary level of standard content. The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible is an exciting alternative for customers who want the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a surprising value.

Redesigned and re-engineered for 2011, the Chrysler 200 Convertible is unique in the standard specialty segment as a true mid-sized convertible that comfortably seats 4 adults and has enough room in the trunk, even when the power top is dropped. Consumers can choose from two automatically latching tops, a body-color painted steel, retractable hard top, or a cloth soft top, both of which can drop with the press of a button on the key fob.

The new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan S model brings a distinct style with a little bit of attitude for the customer that wants to express their individual style, at a price that makes sense.

Distinctive exterior design elements exclusive to the S model include a unique front grille with an S model-only Chrysler winged badge with a black background, body color mirrors and door handles, black background headlamps for a little extra attitude, distinctive 18-in. aluminum wheels with dark painted pockets and "S" badging.

The interior exclusive design features include a perforated leather steering wheel; leather, heated front seats with Digital suede inserts and an embroidered "S" on the front head rests; silver accent thread and a standard Boston Acoustic sound system with a 276-watt CD/DVD/MP3/30 gigabyte hard drive media center.

The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible models provide drivers a fun, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work or a weekend adventure on scenic roads. Virtually every part of the suspension has been retuned or redesigned for 2011, including 22 of 28 suspension bushings. The suspension geometry was completely re-engineered. The track is an inch wider, tire width has been increased from 215 to 225 mm and the Chrysler 200 has been lowered 12 mm in the front and 6 mm in the rear for a lower, wider, more substantial stance.

The 2011 Chrysler S Convertible is powered by the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which produces a 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, but still achieves an exceptional 29 miles per gallon EPA highway fuel economy rating The 3.6-liter Pentastar engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transaxle.

The 200 Convertible's standard safety features include: advanced multi-stage front passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted side air bags, electronic stability control (ESC) with brake assist and traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), Brake Override, active front-seat head restraints, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat anchor system, remote keyless illuminated entry, SentryKey engine immobilizer and security alarm.

Read More