Monday, July 2, 2012

Jaguar XKR, 2012

 
 
 
 
  • Jaguar XKR, 2012

The Jaguar XK was the first car created entirely under the aegis of Design Director Ian Callum. Dramatic and purposeful, yet as sensuous as only a Jaguar can be, the XK now receives a number of revisions that reinforce its contemporary, assertive character.

The latest lighting technology has allowed the front headlamps to be made slimmer and at the same time incorporate LED signal functions and running lights. Combined with a larger grille and new bumper design, this gives the XK instant 'rear-view mirror' recognition. Unmistakably a Jaguar, each model in the range gains unique styling attributes that distinguish it from its siblings. Chrome mesh grilles on the XK are replaced with matt black detailing on the XKR while the flagship XKR-S receives a unique front bumper underlining its sense of purpose.

The power vent along the front wing has been altered from a vertical to horizontal design with a mesh insert. Emblazoned with the Jaguar name, it serves to emphasise the potential inherent in the XK's design. To the rear, the boot lid has been revised with a slimmer chrome finisher which allows the car to be graced by the famous Jaguar 'leaper', bringing it into line with the rest of the company's products.

Complementing the design changes are 17 paint colours, five of which are new and a range of alloy wheels that now total 11 different designs ranging in size from 18 to 20 inches. A further opportunity for owners to express their individuality is available through the 'Black Pack', now also available as an option on the naturally aspirated cars as well as the Jaguar XKR. This replaces exterior chrome with a matt black finish, complemented by 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels. On the Jaguar XKR, the package also includes body coloured aerodynamic enhancements and optional side graphics.

XK Powertrain and Dynamics
Jaguar sports cars have a reputation for blending athletic high-performance with effortless cruising comfort. Nothing exemplifies this dual character more clearly than the XK's 5.0-litre AJ-V8 engine.

Now in its third generation this offers not only tremendous power but also great efficiency by incorporating the very latest technology including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT). Like the car itself, the engine is constructed from high-grade, lightweight aluminium, which in the cylinder heads is recycled to reduce the environmental impact of manufacture.

New 186mph XKR-S
Available in both naturally aspirated and supercharged forms from the beginning, the engine is now offered in a third variant in the XKR-S. Based on the supercharged unit in the Jaguar XKR, revised fuel mapping and an active exhaust have boosted power and torque to 550PS and 680Nm respectively, creating the most powerful Jaguar road car ever. This allows the car to reach 60mph in just 4.2 seconds and join the exclusive '300km/h' club with a limited top speed of 186mph. Not only extremely powerful but also efficient, the XKR-S emits just 292g/km of CO2.

All variants of the XK use the six-speed ZF automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles to control the Jaguar Sequential Shift function for greater driver control. In the XKR-S the transmission has been revised in line with the increased power and torque to optimise upshifts and allow for the increased top speed.

The XK's exhilarating driving dynamics are the result of the latest generation of Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics technology that provides a continuous and seamlessly variable damping strategy to negate the traditional trade-off between ride comfort and handling.

Luxury and performance duality
Adaptive Dynamics performs three main functions; controlling vertical body movement, roll and pitch rates. One hundred times every second, Adaptive Dynamics analyses the thousands of inputs and variables which determine ride and handling characteristics. By also monitoring wheel position 500 times every second, the system is able to achieve the famous Jaguar duality between comfort and sporting appeal. Should the driver wish to alter these characteristics, there is the option of Dynamic Mode, which increases body control, sharpens throttle response and reduces gearshift times.

The two supercharged variants of the XK also benefit from Jaguar's Active Differential Control technology. This uses a multiplate clutch to vector torque to the driven wheel with the most grip. Allied to the ABS and stability control, this allows for the ultimate in traction and precision both mid-corner and at its exit. Non-supercharged models use a mechanical differential, which delivers outstanding levels of grip and stability under power.

All models benefit from the Dynamic Stability Control system which offers four modes: normal, Winter, TracDSC and DSC Off, allowing the enthusiastic driver to choose the level of intervention dependent on road conditions.

The XKR-S model enhances both these electronic systems and the inherent stiffness of the lightweight aluminium architecture to create the most dynamic and exciting Jaguar yet.

Uprated suspension
The double wishbone front suspension has been comprehensively revised with a new fully-machined steering knuckle. This significantly increases camber and castor stiffness by 0.13 degrees per kilonewton to transform the accuracy and weighting of the steering for greater levels of connection, feedback and precision. Rear suspension geometry has been revised with rear wheel steer optimised for maximum agility while spring rates have been increased at both ends of the car by 28 percent.

The Active Differential has been programmed to reduce steering sensitivity at the very high speeds of which the car is capable, increasing stability and driver control. Bespoke software for Jaguar's Adaptive Damping has been written for the XKR-S, ensuring both total body control and maximum traction and grip. Changes to the TracDSC mode alters intervention levels to allow the experienced driver to explore the outer edges of the performance envelope, rewarded by the motorsport inspired soundtrack from the exhaust, which features an active pneumatic valve.

The suspension changes and Performance exhaust system are available as part of the Dynamic Pack option for the Jaguar XKR model.

XK Interior
The dual nature of the XK is apparent from the moment the driver enters the cabin. Luxurious and cocooning, the sporting potential is apparent from the moment the Start button pulses red. Pressing it fires the engine into life with a deep, musical reverberation and the Jaguar DriveSelector rises from the centre console as a point of first contact to begin the process of bonding man with machine.

In the latest XK, the cabin has been refreshed with a host of new trim materials including ebony soft-feel paint for the switches, gloss black finish to the centre console and phosphor blue halo illumination and ambient lighting. New veneers, colour combinations and headlining options allow owners to create a cabin ambience precisely matching their requirements.

A new leather-wrapped, multi-function steering wheel has also been added, providing a tactile interface between car and driver, complemented on the XKR-S by 'Jaguar' embossed stainless steel pedals, which are optional on other models.

New performance interiors
Standard on the XKR-S and optional on the XKR and XK Portfolio models are the new Performance front seats. Featuring integrated head restraints and increased lateral and squab support, the new seats hold driver and passenger securely and comfortably in place. The 16-way adjustment of squab, cushion, lumbar and bolster elements is supplemented by memory and heating functions. Unique to the XKR-S is a Carbon patterned and soft-grain leather interior with contrasting micro-piping and stitching. The Jet Poltrona Frau Italian leather headlining that is standard on the XKR-S is offered as an option on other models.

The central seven-inch Touch-screen provides an intuitive interface for the extensive technology that is seamlessly incorporated into the XK, including iPod and USB connectivity and satellite navigation with DVD mapping. The central screen also projects the image from the new reverse parking camera.
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Hyundai i40 Tourer UK Version, 2012

 
 
 
 
 
  • Hyundai i40 Tourer UK Version, 2012

The anticipated all-new Hyundai i40 Tourer is on sale in the UK from September 8, 2011. Prices will start from £18,395 on the road with insurance from Group 12E; and will offer customers a high level of standard specification coupled with competitive cost of ownership. Also, with the lowest 'Benefit in Kind' (BIK) cost in class, the Hyundai i40 range is an attractive alternative for company car drivers.

The Hyundai i40 Tourer is available in three main trim levels (Active, Style and Premium) with the choice of three efficient engines, four power outputs and manual or automatic transmission. Hyundai's Blue Drive technologies - incorporating Intelligent Stop & Go technology - are fitted as standard on all Active derivatives, and on the Style 1.7 CRDi 136PS Blue Drive model ensuring CO2 emissions of 119 g/km and without compromising on performance.

Standard features, which set the Hyundai i40 Tourer apart from other competitor offerings, are 16" alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, leather steering wheel with audio controls, electric heated door mirrors with integrated LED indicators, electric front and rear windows and electric parking brake with automatic hold function.

Touch screen satellite navigation with rear view camera, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control and dual zone climate control are standard on the mid-point 'Style' range.

The Premium models benefit further from the addition of leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, keyless entry and supervision instrument cluster with LCD colour display as standard, plus the choice of three option packages - Vision, Comfort and Assist which include the following features: Lane Departure Warning and Smart Parking Assist, heated leather steering wheel, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats and xenon headlamps with Adaptive Front Lighting System.

Designed and engineered at the company's European R&D headquarters in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the Hyundai i40 Tourer will be joined by a four-door saloon later this year. Both produced at Hyundai's Ulsan manufacturing facility in Korea. Prices for the saloon will be subject to a further announcement.

All Hyundai i40 models will be supported by Hyundai's industry-best, fully transparent Five Year Triple Care assurance. This package offers five-year unlimited warranty, five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks.

STYLING & DESIGN
The original inspiration for the i40 can be traced back to the Genus concept car in 2006. Debuting at the Geneva Show, Genus represented Hyundai's vision in Europe for a unique alternative within the D-segment, combining practicality with emotional design. Genus helped to forge a new identity for the company, with the debut of the hexagonal grille, a feature which has since become part of Hyundai's brand face in Europe.

The design represents an evolution of Hyundai's unique form language, 'fluidic sculpture', creating a sleek, elegant Tourer with uncompromised comfort and load capacity. The 'fluidic sculpture' design DNA is recognizable by flowing lines inspired by nature which combine to create a dynamic exterior, and was introduced on the Hyundai ix-onic concept car at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. Since this debut, 'fluidic sculpture' has been the design inspiration behind all new Hyundai models, such as ix20, Veloster and ix35.

The sleek design of the Hyundai i40 Tourer does not impact negatively on the levels of interior comfort, cabin versatility and practicality or cargo capacity. The generous wheelbase (2770 mm) and overall width (1815 mm) create a cabin with impressive capacity. The new model delivers best-in-class dimensions for front seats occupants, with head (1025 mm), leg (1170 mm) and shoulder room (1455 mm).

With significant rear headroom and the unique bonus of reclining rear seats, Hyundai's i40 Tourer promises to give all occupants the most comfortable D-segment ride available, even when spending long periods of time on the road.

Cargo capacity in the i40 more than holds its own among competitors in the class, with figures ranging from 553 litters with the rear seats occupied (loaded to the top of the seatbacks), up to 1719 liters with the rear seats folded down (loaded to the roof). Loading and unloading is also made easy by the lowest floor level in the D-segment - 592 mm from the ground, 43 mm below the Passat.

The new i40 is significantly sleeker than previous Hyundai models, with an improved aerodynamic drag figure (0.29 Cd wagon, 0.28Cd sedan) - enhancing refinement, performance and fuel economy.

FLEET
The i40 will play a key role in expanding Hyundai's presence in the UK's fleet sector, balancing efficiency with driver pleasure and providing a competitive customer assurance program and total cost of ownership. With a sales forecast of 5-6000 units in 2012, Hyundai expects approximately 60% of sales to come from the fleet sector.

Like all new Hyundai models, the i40 is backed up by Hyundai's award-winning industry-best, transparent customer care package, Five Year Triple Care. This demonstrates Hyundai's confidence in its vehicles, providing complete peace of mind to customers and making their ownership experience both rewarding and stress-free.

Hyundai has also now developed a stronger infrastructure and training programme that will deliver a first class service by our professional dealer network.

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE
The high level of equipment in the Hyundai i40 Tourer sets it aside from its competitors. It offers an extensive standard specification with numerous high-tech features - many of them available only as options on competitor models.

The Hyundai i40 Tourer will be generously equipped as standard with items such as: automatic headlights, front fog lights, Bluetooth® connectivity with voice recognition, electric front and rear windows, driver's knee airbag, active front head restraints, electric parking brake with automatic hold function, ESP, HAC (Hill-start Assist Control), manual air conditioning, and a six-speed transmission.

High-tech electronic features include Smart Parking Assist, Lane Departure Warning systems (as part of the optional Assist pack) and Xenon headlamps including static cornering lights which provide additional illumination of the 'nearside' road and the verge during cornering. Connectivity items such as touchscreen satellite navigation and rear-view parking camera come as standard on Style and Premium.

Advanced exterior and interior lighting innovations, such as standard daytime running lights with optional Xenon headlights and LCD supervision instrument cluster will further strengthen the i40's position as the lead model in both Hyundai's line-up and the D-segment.

An optional three-piece, full-width panoramic glass sunroof will be available on Premium models. The front section tilts, the center section slides and the rear is fixed. Inside, a roller blind blocks out the sun when needed and on the outside, the B- and C-pillar trims are finished in high-gloss black to complement the all-black framing of the roof.

Standard on Premium models, the memory function for the driver's seat retains the seat settings for two drivers.

To help owners cope with extremes of hot and cold climates, special options are offered. Optional ventilated seats as part of the Comfort pack provide ventilation, conducting cabin air through the cushion and backrest which can lower the temperature by 3°C (cushion) / 5°C (backrest) and lower humidity by 20% in 20 minutes. Also part of the Comfort pack, the i40's steering wheel will be available with a heated rim (up to 38°C) to enhance driver comfort in extremely cold conditions and heated rear seats are also available.

ENGINES
The all-new Hyundai i40 Tourer will be available with a choice of very competitive Euro V-compliant engines: two petrol units and one diesel with two outputs. These power units cover a 115 to 177PS output spread.

All engines are tuned for strong torque delivery extended across a wide engine-speed range, making the i40 an enjoyable car to drive around town or on the motorway. Manual and automatic transmissions will also be offered.

In a segment where diesel models represent 77% of total sales, Hyundai is anticipating that the 'high-power' version of the 1.7-litre diesel unit developing 136PS will be the most popular engine among both private and fleet buyers. This engine's high torque output (325 Nm from just 2,000 rpm) will ensure a responsive drive with acceleration to 62mph in just 10.6 seconds for the manual model and a brisk 12.0 seconds with automatic.

The 'low-power' version produces 115PS which takes it from 0-62mph in 12.9 seconds.
The petrol engine is Hyundai's all new four-cylinder 2.0-litre GDI engine, called 'Nu'. This all-aluminum engine makes its debut in the i40, promising to deliver higher torque (for enhanced drivability), improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, plus undiminished durability and excellent NVH characteristics - similar to a multi-point fuel injected engine.

Equipped with GDI (gasoline direct injection) this 1999 cc unit generates 177PS which ensures that the i40 Tourer boasts best-in-class fuel economy. An i40 with this engine and a manual gearbox will accelerate to 62mph in just 9.7 seconds registering fuel economy figures of 39.2mpg (combined cycle) and achieve a CO2 rating of just 169 g/km.

The 1.6-litre petrol engine offers a well-proven 16-valve Gamma unit. It generates 135PS and accelerates from 0-62mph in 11.6 seconds.

Eco credentials
In terms of environmental performance, the all-new i40 will feature the latest technologies developed under Hyundai's fuel-saving Blue Drive™ eco-program, including Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG), low rolling-resistance tires, an alternator management system (AMS) and a drag-reducing 'active air flap' in the front grille.

When combined with the 'low-power' 1.7-litre 115PS diesel engine, the inclusion of these Blue Drive™ features means that fuel consumption and CO2 emissions register at an impressively low 65.7mpg and 113 g/km respectively, making the i40 the most fuel efficient model in its segment. With Blue Drive features fitted, the CO2 emissions figures for the higher-spec Style 1.7-litre 136PS diesel are 119 g/km with 136PS and 62.8g/km.

Hyundai has continuously highlighted its desire to lead the way in terms of long-term environmental sustainability for the auto industry, and the new i40 furthers the company's commitment to delivering models with class-leading eco-performance.

While developing the i40 powertrains, Hyundai focused on achieving strong mid-range performance for maximum drivability and maximum driver appeal. Overall, Hyundai is expecting a 80/20% split between diesel and petrol-powered i40 sales in the UK - with the 1.7-litre 136PS diesel accounting for almost 50% of total i40 sales.

TRANSMISSIONS
To maximize fuel economy, reduce CO2 emissions and enhance refinement, every Hyundai i40 Tourer will come equipped with a six-speed transmission.

The six-speed manual is an upgraded gearbox with improved multi-cone synchronization, optimized gear design, reduced weight, enhanced efficiency, reduced power loss, an optimized differential casing and superior durability up to 300,000 kilometers. The transmission, which is filled with low-viscosity oil, is maintenance-free and requires no servicing during the life of the vehicle.

The gearbox is fitted with a 'high' sixth gear ratio, to minimize engine revs when cruising at speed, enhancing refinement and cutting fuel consumption.

Developed in-house for fitment in a wide range of future vehicles, the all-new six-speed automatic transmission demonstrates world-class engineering skills. The driver can choose from two operating modes - fully automatic or manual. For city driving, fully automatic mode is ideal, while manual mode allows for clutch-less manual sequential gear changes for greater driver involvement - either using the centre console selector lever or the new steering wheel-mounted paddles (standard on all automatic models).

The paddles enable the driver to change gear without taking his/her hands off the steering wheel. Pulling the right-hand paddle towards the driver changes up, while pulling the left-hand paddle changes down.

Although the six-speed transmission is a regular torque converter automatic, it incorporates a unique flat torque converter, with three planetary gear sets and four pinion differentials - ensuring ultra-fast, smooth and precise gearshifts throughout the engine speed range - and it weighs just 78 kilos, only 20 kg more than the manual gearbox.

Its innovative layout makes this transmission the most compact six-speed unit currently available anywhere in the world. It is 54 mm shorter and weighs 12 kilos less than a regular five-speed unit and boosts fuel economy by up to 12%. Like the i40's six-speed manual, the automatic is a 'filled for life' maintenance-free unit.

Whenever the car is stopped for more than a few seconds, the new transmission's innovative 'Neutral Control' function automatically shifts the transmission from 'D' to 'N', improving fuel economy especially in city driving.

RUNNING GEAR
Hyundai's chassis engineering team were given the challenge of exploiting the robust all-new body shell structure and the new model's long wheelbase, to ensure that the new tourer's steering and ride/handling balance delivered a responsive drive, with premium levels of refinement to rival the established best-in-class.

A new hydraulic power steering system was developed. The rack and pinion system is speed-sensitive and requires just 2.88 turns of the steering wheel from lock-to-lock, with a turning circle of 10.94 meters. Weighted to provide good steering feel and precise vehicle control, the system offers substantial feedback during out-of-town motoring and with low effort during parking and city driving.
Compact, lightweight MacPherson Strut suspension is employed at the front, with off-set, side-load springs to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation for enhanced ride quality.

A multi-link, fully-independent suspension system was engineered for the rear. It features dampers and coil springs which are mounted separately to more effectively disperse input loads and to minimize intrusion into the cabin and cargo bay.
To reduce NVH, both the front and rear suspension systems are mounted on a lightweight hydro-formed sub frame, with carefully fine-tuned rubber bushes to help isolate the cabin and its occupants from irregularities in the road surface.

Every i40 is equipped with an all-disc braking system, backed up by ESP, ABS anti-lock, EBD brake-force distribution and Brake Assist systems as standard. For maximum stopping power, ventilated front discs and solid rear discs are fitted. Larger diameter brake discs (320 mm front and 300 mm rear) are available with 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels, standard on Style and Premium models respectively.

REFINEMENT
At the heart of the Hyundai i40 Tourer's class-leading refinement and its responsive handling is the all-new body shell. The increased use of ultra-high strength steel together with advanced engineering has resulted in superior stiffness and superb structural efficiency that outperform rivals. The new body shell will ensure that i40 occupants are barely aware of any vibrations from the road surface or from the car's mechanical components.

Compared with other European models, torsional rigidity is 11% greater and flexural (bending) stiffness is 23% higher. When structural efficiency is taken into account, the i40's body in white is 27% more efficient than its closest class competitor. With minimized vibrations, the i40 body shell has enabled Hyundai's development team to deliver a car with outstanding NVH.

To bring the refinement of diesel-powered i40 models as close as possible to the petrol vehicles, a new acoustic package has been developed. By using experimental methods such as Reciprocal Holography (to visualize noise reduction levels at certain frequency) and ADNA (Advanced Diagnostic Network Algorithm) to rank noise sources in the order of their identified transfer paths - the NVH performance, has been dramatically improved.

The new acoustic package ensures materials such as air permeable carpet, sound absorbing layers for engine-room encapsulation, and textile wheel-arch liners absorb noise sources from engine, road, and muffler, providing a 20% improvement in interior noise levels (on Articulation Index), and a reduction in outside engine noise when idling (compared to an i40 without these features).

Like many of the characteristics and attributes of i40, the NVH package was created to provide a quieter and more comfortable driving environment for diesel vehicles, developed particularly with high-mileage fleet users in mind.

SAFETY
The Hyundai i40 Tourer is equipped with the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Active safety features, fitted as standard in many countries, include ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), ABS (anti-lock braking system), HAC (Hill Assist Control) to prevent roll-back when starting on an incline, VSM (Vehicle Stability Management), Brake Assist System and Emergency Stop Signal.

Several new 'active' features are introduced with i40. As part of the ESC system and a standard feature in Western Europe, VSM (Vehicle Stability Management) helps the vehicle stay in a stable position by reducing the amount of assistance if the driver is applying too much steering effort - and increasing assistance if the driver is applying too little effort.

An ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) system ensures that trailing drivers are alerted whenever the driver has to make a sudden or abrupt stop as the rear hazard lamps automatically flash repeatedly when the system senses forceful pressure being applied to the brakes.

A Lane Departure Warning System (available on Premium models as as part of the Assist Pack), automatically corrects steering when the vehicle veers out of the lane.

To assist drivers during reversing or parking manoeuvres, two active systems are available. A new rear-view parking camera is fitted with a 130-degree, wide-angle lens which transmits images to the navigation display (standard on Style and Premium).

The i40 can also be ordered with Smart Parking Assist System which features cutting-edge optional technologies that make parking easier than ever before. The system will automatically 'drive' the car into/out of parking spaces (between two cars parked in single file) that are only 100 cm longer than the vehicle, with the driver only having to control the brake and accelerator.

In terms of passive safety, every i40 on the road in the UK will be fitted with seven airbags - front, side, curtain and driver knee airbag available as standard on all models.
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Sunday, July 1, 2012

Dodge Ram Laramie Limited, 2012

 
 
  • Dodge Ram Laramie Limited, 2012

The Ram Truck expand its model lineup by adding the new, top-of-the-line Ram Laramie Limited.
Featuring premium materials, such as full-leather seating, piano-black interior components and under-stated exterior badging, Ram Laramie Limited offers a refined luxury alternative to the popular southwestern-themed Ram Laramie Longhorn edition pickup.

Exterior
Ram Laramie Limited gets a body-color front fascia with fog lamps and a matching, painted rear bumper. Ram Laramie Limited 2500 and 3500 models in white and silver exterior colors get chrome front and rear bumpers. The Laramie Limited's chrome grille surrounds billet inserts that are featured on Ram Sport models. Understated chrome accents include body-side molding, mirrors, door handles and tubular side steps.

The Laramie Limited's body side has a clean, "street truck" look and eliminates the traditional HEMI®, Cummins and Ram model line badges.
Tailgate badging includes the chrome Ram's Head logo and a small italicized block-letter "Limited."

Ram 1500 Laramie Limited shares 20-inch forged aluminum wheels with the Ram Laramie Longhorn. Polished surfaces are accented with painted silver pockets. Heavy Duty models feature 17-inch fully polished aluminum wheels. Wheel centers are embossed with the Ram brand name.

The Ram 1500 Laramie Limited is available in six exterior color choices, including: black, bright silver metallic, bright white, deep cherry red pearl, mineral gray metallic and true blue. Ram Heavy Duty models are available in black, bright silver metallic, bright white and mineral gray metallic.

The Interior
The 2012 Ram Laramie Limited Edition features a modern, luxurious interior.
A full-leather cockpit with dark slate Natura Plus leather seats and engraved details lend the Ram Laramie Limited an unmatched level of sophistication and style.

Contrasting medium graystone leather piping provides seat-edge emphasis. Additional accents are created along either side of the piping by medium graystone deck-seam stitching.
The Ram Laramie Limited's cavernous double-stacked center console is topped with a soft, double French-stitched full-leather lid.

In addition to 100 percent leather seat coverings, Ram Laramie Limited gets a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter - console mounted on 1500, column mounted on 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty models. Accent medium graystone X-stitch detailing sets off both the steering wheel and shifter.

Door trim front and rear also is wrapped in premium leather. Leather armrest uppers are further accented with the same dual French stitch used on the center console lid and instrument panel.

Ram Laramie Limited editions receive remote LED lighting at the inside door handles and a full-length light that illuminates the truck's multi-function lower map pockets, front and rear.

The dash features a center stack trimmed in high-gloss piano-black. Liquid graphite side bezels and bright chrome vent rings complete the center stack's detailing. Piano-black finishes also are used in the door panels and are trimmed in bright chrome.

Ram Laramie Limited's gauge cluster is accented with pad-print chrome rings that share the high-end appearance of a gentleman's watch and include the imprinted message: "Designed in Detroit." Gauge needles are finished in liquid graphite.
A liquid graphite glovebox spear with pinstriped details and black and chrome "Limited" badge complete the dash.

Beneath the dash is soft foot-well lighting, providing both a functional and aesthetic interior enhancement.

Passengers also enjoy solid dark slate premium berber carpet floor mats with medium graystone accent stitching. Rear flap-closure seatback map pockets with modern chrome Ram-lettered detailed metal buckles also are unique to Ram Laramie Limited. For entry and exit, brushed-silver Ram-branded door sill plates resist scuffs and add visual appeal.

Other Features
Ram Laramie Limited also is equipped with a navigational radio, remote start, back-up camera, power adjustable pedals with memory, heated steering wheel, front ventilated and heated seats and rear heated seats.

Ram Laramie Limited will be available in 1500 (1/2-ton), 2500 HD (3/4-ton) and 3500 HD single- and dual-rear-wheel (1-ton); Crew Cab and Mega Cab; four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive; and short- and long-wheelbase models.

Laramie Limited will join the other Ram trim levels, which include: ST, Tradesman, Tradesman HD, Express, SLT, Outdoorsman, Mossy Oak edition, Sport, R/T, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn and Power Wagon (2500 only).
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Toyota Hilux, 2012

 
 
 
 
 
 
  • Toyota Hilux, 2012

First released in Japan in 1967, and one year later throughout Europe, the legendary Toyota Hilux has been a dominant presence in the global pick-up market for almost 45 years.

To date, the world's favourite pick-up has recorded cumulative global sales of over 13 million units. Last year, global sales reached 549,000 units, an increase of 25% over the previous year. In Europe, 21,866 Hilux vehicles were sold in 2010, representing close to 25% of the segment and making the Toyota pick-up the leader for the third consecutive year.

The new pick-up available in 36 European countries, and more than 135 throughout the world. With anticipated European sales of almost 26,000 units in 2011, the Toyota Hilux success story is set to continue.

Refined Interior Quality and more Sophisticated Exterior Design
The 2012 Hilux features extensive revisions to both its interior and exterior design. The interior changes include improved sensory quality throughout the cabin, and passenger car levels of convenience.

A new, horizontal centre instrument cluster design reinforces the breadth and roominess of the cabin. The centre cluster is clearly divided into two sections. The upper part incorporates Toyota Touch, a 6.1" touch screen multimedia unit. The lower part houses new designs for both manual and automatic air-conditioning controls.

The driver's instrument cluster has been redesigned to enhance meter clarity, and SR and SR+ grades are now equipped with Optitron meters. A new, more modern steering wheel design incorporates grade-differentiated switchgear.

Perceived quality has been significantly improved through the adoption of uniformly darker finishes with a greater colour consistency throughout the interior. This sense of increased sophistication is further enhanced through new, silver ornamentation to the display audio unit, steering wheel and gearshift knob. A choice of four seat upholstery finishes, including leather, offers improved durability and stronger grade differentiation.

The new exterior design gives the 2012 Toyota Hilux a distinctive, instantly recognisable presence, whilst maintaining the legendary toughness essential for professional work.

The front of the vehicle is entirely new from the A pillar forwards. It combines an image of rugged durability appropriate to a 'workhorse' with a more curved, three-dimensional image reflecting the vehicle's SUV-like appeal to the growing leisure segment of the European pick-up market.

The flowing lines of a new bonnet design extend into a new, more sophisticated, reverse trapezoid-shaped radiator grille. The grille is flanked by powerful headlamp clusters which project beyond the bodywork extremities to enhance turn signal visibility. A new front bumper design incorporates a large air intake flanked by integrated fog lamp housing.

In profile, the 2012 Toyota Hilux's clean, robust bodywork is enhanced by a new front and rear wing design which incorporates a strong, rearward-flowing character line adding a powerful sense of movement. The vehicle profile is further enhanced by new, robust 15" and sporting 17" steel and alloy wheel designs, and new door mirrors featuring integrated turn signals on SR and SR+ grade models.

To the rear, new combination lamp clusters and a new high level stop lamp match the projecting design of the headlamps to maximise visibility. And 'workhorse' DLX grade models mark the reintroduction of a tough, durable flat bumper design.
The 2012 Toyota Hilux will be available in a range of 8 exterior body colours, of which two, Dark Steel and Silky Gold, are new.

New Grade Structure
In order to create a stronger differentiation between 'workhorse', 'dual usage' and 'leisure' versions, the 2012 Hilux is now available in four grades: DLX, the new DLX+, SR and SR+
Fulfilling a 'workhorse'/'dual usage' role, the brand new DLX+ grade is available with 2WD or 4WD 2.5 D-4D powertrains mated to a manual transmission in all three body styles and with a 4WD 3.0 D-4D powertrain and manual transmission as a Double Cab only.

DLX models are equipped with an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), a rear differential lock, electric windows, remote door locking and electric, heated door mirrors.
The optional Styling pack for DLX+ Double Cab adds a body-coloured front bumper and wheel arch protectors, wider tyres and front fog lamps.

With a choice of three body types, two engines, manual and automatic transmission and two- or four-wheel drive, Europe's pick-up of choice now satisfies the requirements of an even wider professional and leisure customer base.

Upgraded 2Wd 2.5 D-4D, 2012 Toyota Hilux Engine Range Now Euro V Compliant
Through the introduction of variable nozzle turbocharging, 2012 Hilux 2WD, 2.5 D-4D models now benefit from a 24 hp increase in power. The improved 2494 cc, 16 valve, DOHC four-cylinder common-rail unit now develops 144 hp at 3,600 rpm and 343 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, matching the output of 2.5 litre four-wheel drive variants.

This power increase has been achieved through the adoption of a DC motor-actuated, variable nozzle vane-type turbocharger and the use of new injectors. The new injectors offer more precise fuel injection, improving throttle response and performance.

Durable, reliable and quiet, the 2.5 D-4D engine further benefits from several performance and efficiency enhancing measures. A high-performance turbo-intercooler not only increases power but also enhances emissions performance. A sophisticated Swirl Control System optimises the air-fuel mixture at low engine speeds, increasing torque availability without the need for acceleration. And an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler optimises EGR gas temperature to improve emissions performance.

As a result of the 24 hp power increase, the 2012 Toyota Hilux 2.5 D-4D 2WD accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 14.1 seconds, and has a top speed of 170 km/h.
Despite these significant performance increases, combined cycle fuel consumption has been reduced by 1.0 l/100 km to 7.3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions lowered by 26 g/km to only 193 g/km.

Complimenting this power increase, 2012 Toyota Hilux 2WD versions are now equipped with the more robust chassis design of 4WD models. This not only improves vehicle ground clearance, but also increases the two-wheel drive models' towing capacity to 2.5 tons.

The 3.0 D-4D engine develops 171 hp and when mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 12.1 seconds, and has a top speed of 170 km/h. It returns an average fuel consumption of 8.6 l/100 km, and generates CO2 emissions of 227 g/km.
Equipped with an optional, 5-speed automatic gearbox, acceleration from 0-100 km/h improves to 12 seconds, and top speed rises to 175 km/h. Average fuel consumption is 8.4 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of 223 g/km.

Both powertrains benefit from high torque output across a wide engine speed range -the 2.5 D-4D generating 343 Nm between 1,600 and 2,800 rpm, manual versions of the 3.0 litre engine matching this figure between an even wider, 1,400-3,400 rpm band- offering optimum performance at any speed, across any terrain.
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Saturday, June 30, 2012

Audi A6 Hybrid, 2012

 
 
 
 
  •  Audi A6 Hybrid, 2012

The Audi A6 hybrid can achieve speeds of up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) purely on electricity; at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph), it has a range of 3 km. It can also operate with the combustion engine only or in hybrid mode; in the deceleration phases, it recovers power and activates both the engine and the electric motor together when accelerating quickly. Special indicators on the instrument cluster and on the MMI monitor provide of detailed display of the different driving conditions.

In the near future, Audi begin series production of the Audi A6 hybrid, its second hybrid model after the Q5 hybrid quattro. The Audi A6 hybrid employs an efficient parallel hybrid concept: Its combustion engine, a 155 kW (211 hp) 2.0 TFSI, works together with an electric motor that delivers 33 kW (45 hp) and 211 Nm (155.63 lb-ft) of torque. The electric motor sits directly behind the TFSI, occupying the space of the torque converter upstream of the modified 8-speed tiptronic. The transmission sends torque to the front wheels.

A crash-protected area of the luggage compartment houses a light, compact lithium-ion battery that provides 1.3 kWh of nominal power and generates 39 kW. Depending on requirements, it is air-cooled in two ways - by means of a blower from the interior or by means of an internal refrigerant circuit coupled to the automatic air conditioning system. This technology largely maintains the rechargeable battery within the appropriate temperature range, thereby ensuring that the vehicle operates on electric power a comparatively large percentage of the time.

The Audi A6 hybrid provides the power of a V6, combined with the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder engine. It accelerates in 7.3 seconds from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph), top speed is 238 km/h (147.89 mph) and the average fuel consumption is 6.2 liters per 100 km (37.94 US mpg), a CO2 emissions level of 142 grams per km (228.53 g/mile).
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