Opel Adam, 2013

 

 

 

•  Opel Adam, 2013

With the all-new ADAM, ais entering the fashion-led A-segment with a chic, small, urban car. The Opel ADAM combines bold, powerful design with potential for almost unlimited personalization, making each ADAM totally unique. It also provides premium technologies from upper segments, including a new onboard infotainment system which integrates the owner's smartphone in the car (Android and Apple iOS) and thereby makes internet-based applications available in the cabin.

Measuring almost 3.70 meters in length (1.72 meters width excl. mirrors), the agile three-door is perfect for urban environments. Inside its cabin, the Opel ADAM offers seating for four people who will benefit from its premium-inspired atmosphere and a high degree of roominess unusual for a small car. In the A-segment, Opel already offers the Agila which impresses with its practical strengths. Now the new sporty and elegant Opel ADAM targets especially trendy urban customers who are looking for a car that expresses their personal style. Experts predict the lifestyle-orientated sub-segment to grow steadily over the next years.

The Opel ADAM will initially be offered with three efficient gasoline engines (1.2 l 51kW/70 hp, 1.4 l 64 kW/87 hp and 1.4 l 74/100 hp) combined with a five-speed manual transmission. All powertrains are available with an ecoFLEX technology pack including fuel-saving Start/Stop technology. Later on, a new generation small gasoline engine will make its premiere in the ADAM, featuring direct injection turbocharging for further enhanced efficiency and performance. This new engine will be combined with a completely new generation six-speed manual transmission.

Customize: "Almost unlimited" choices
Opel ADAM innovates and introduces a totally new trim approach. Rather than having the well-known trim hierarchies, customers can choose from three different highly individualized trim moods or worlds: JAM is unconventional, fashionable and colorful, GLAM offers a more elegant, refined and sophisticated setting and SLAM appeals to those with energetic and sporty attitudes. ADAM JAM, ADAM GLAM and ADAM SLAM: these three "mood" worlds set the stage for a virtually unlimited potential for personalization with a wide choice of exterior colors, three roof colors, different interior colors, decors and various headliners -including an LED lit "starlight" roof trim - and other premium inspired distinctive design elements.

Select: Bold exterior with iconic silhouette and premium inspired interior

ADAM introduces Opel's award-winning philosophy of "sculptural artistry meets German precision" to the fashion-led A-segment. And unlike other rivals, Opel ADAM bucks the trend of retro-based design with a modern and bold look.

Opel ADAM's striking and unique "floating" roof which is visually disconnected from the body allows a perfect execution of a two-tone color combination. The car's name badge is - unlike with most other cars - placed at the end of the chrome "signature" window molding on the rear pillar, which adds to its unique appeal. In the wide front grille, the ADAM has the new wing-shaped chrome bar with the embossed Opel emblem as introduced in the new Astra line-up. On the flanks there are design cues such as the blade shape in the lower door and the characteristic crisp "shock wave" around the door handles known from the Astra GTC. The headlamps feature wing-shaped daytime running lights (DRL) typical for Opel. For the first time in the A-segment, both the headlamps and the taillights are available with state-of-the art energy-saving LED technology.

The interior design delivers what its upmarket exterior promises: style and premium inspired ambience in a remarkably spacious environment for a small car. With sculpted, harmonious surfaces and graceful flowing lines just like its bigger brand brothers Astra, Meriva and Insignia, the ADAM rounds off Opel´s brand promise in its latest and smallest declination. The round, chronograph-style instruments and chrome bezeled switches convey an aura of sporty precision.

Connect: With upscale equipment including smartphone integration
Opel ADAM is the first car with Opel's all-new state-of-the-art infotainment system that not only brings its owner's smartphone capabilities to the vehicle but also adds further value to them, offering even more convenience and flexibility than a conventional system. The new system is exclusive to the A-segment because it not only offers smartphone connectivity for Apple iOS software but is also compatible with Android operating systems.

The new infotainment system makes selected smartphone content including internet based applications such as GPS navigation available in the cabin. It collects the content and displays it on the seven-inch, high-resolution and full-color touch screen which also provides quick and intuitive access to various user friendly control-functions via five easy to navigate menus.

In addition, new media sources such as MP3 players, iPodsTM and tablets can be brought to the Opel ADAM thanks to BluetoothTM and USB connectivity. There is a plug-in outlet for music devices that do not use USB or BluetoothTM connections. Opel ADAM owners who wish to enjoy a video or personalized slide show, can do so when the car is stationary.

Activate: Upscale advanced technologies for the first time in the A-segment
Opel ADAM introduces many upscale and innovative technologies into the A-segment that can usually only be found in higher segments. For the first time it makes the new generation Advanced Park Assist (APA II) available. Drivers engage the system with a button on the dashboard and it tells them when they pass a parallel parking space large enough to accommodate the car. The system then automatically steers them into the parking space, with the driver just controlling the brake, clutch and gears. It always comes in combination with Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) which also uses ultrasonic sensors. Another first in the A-segment is the heated steering wheel which adds another premium touch to Opel ADAM's cabin.

Ride: Agile and crisp chassis with ESP standard on all ADAMs
Opel ADAM's bold stance is further emphasized by its broad footprint (front track: 1485 mm/ rear track: 1478 mm). Its chassis with a wheelbase of 2311 mm is geared towards maximum active safety and comfort. MacPherson struts with a sub-frame have been fitted to the front axle. The rear axle of the Opel ADAM features a torsion beam compound crank design. Wheel sizes range from 15" to 18", and cars that are specified with 17" or 18" rims come standard with a more responsive Sports chassis and steering feeling. The Opel ADAM's Electrical Power Steering (EPS) includes a dedicated CITY mode which at the flick of a switch increases power assistance at lower speeds - particularly useful for maneuvering. The comprehensive ESP of the latest generation is also standard in all ADAMs and comes complete with many useful sub-functions such as Hill Start Assist.

A high level of passive safety is ensured by an ultra-rigid passenger cell mainly made from high-strength steel. This is complemented by front, side and head curtain airbags as well as Dual Seat Belt Pre-tensioners at the front seats which offer additional knee and leg protection. Other safety features include two sets of ISOFIX points plus top tethers in order to easily and safely attach child seats on the 50:50 split foldable rear bench.

The all-new Opel ADAM will be available to order after its official world premiere at the 2012 Paris Motor Show (September 29 - October 14, 2012). First cars will hit the showrooms in January 2013.

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Lexus ES 300h, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Lexus ES 300h, 2013

Lexus unveiled the all-new 2013 ES lineup, including the ES 350 and ES 300h equipped with Lexus Hybrid Drive. Featuring a progressive new design and enhanced handling, the 2013 ES sedan is set to continue as a favorite of luxury car buyers.

ES 350 Now Complemented by ES 300h Hybrid
For the first time, the Lexus ES will be available with Lexus Hybrid Drive. Featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine, the Lexus ES 300h hybrid is expected to earn an EPA fuel economy rating of approximately 40 mpg combined city/highway.

This new, low friction twin cam engine utilizes a sophisticated power management system, 12.5:1 compression ratio, and Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The beltless motor is designed to improve fuel economy and durability, and a near zero evaporative fuel system helps reduce emissions.

The Lexus ES 300h hybrid offers the driver four modes: Normal, Sport, Eco and EV. EV mode allows short distance drives, at reduced speed, using only the power from the hybrid battery pack. Normal mode provides a blend of performance and efficiency that is suited to everyday driving, while Eco mode favors fuel economy. Sport mode increases powertrain responsiveness.

The ES 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with Dual VVT-i. The six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides enhanced performance, fuel efficiency and smooth shifts. Low friction materials further improve efficiency.

Signature Lexus Design
The new ES features a lower, progressive profile, and clean, continuous styling lines from front to rear. All four corners are pulled tightly inward to the wheel arches, creating distinctive proportions. The wheelbase of the new ES has been lengthened by 1.8 inches, while the overall length of the vehicle has grown by just one inch, resulting in a more spacious interior.

The new ES unmistakably bears the new face of Lexus with its distinctive, spindle grille. The LED daytime running lights and combination rear lamps reflect the "L" design motif. The ES 350's rear bumper sports dual exhaust pipes, while the Lexus ES 300h hybrid features a distinctive rear design with hidden exhaust and an integrated spoiler. New exterior colors for the 2013 ES include Fire Agate Pearl and Silver Lining Metallic.

Interior Designed for Comfort and Spaciousness
The modern interior of the 2013 ES has been designed to provide both a sense of openness and security. Sightlines and visibility are improved, controls are logically placed, and new cabin materials express a high level of craftsmanship.

A newly sculptured seat enhances driver comfort. The steering wheel angle has been reduced from 24 degrees to 22 degrees for a more natural control position. Fluid-filled engine mounts, new sound absorbing materials and a tuned engine intake minimize the intrusion of outside noise.

Greater rear seat legroom and knee room are the hallmark of the redesigned, more spacious cabin. Knee room is increased by 2.8 inches and legroom is increased by 4.1 inches. The new design also offers additional foot room below the front seats.

Available comfort and convenience features include manual door window shades, a power rear shade, and a one-touch power trunk closer. Optional ambient lighting, discretely placed under the wood trim, softly illuminates the surfaces of the instrument panel and all four doors.

The new ES will feature enhanced NuLuxe seating surfaces, developed to reduce environmental impact. Genuine leather is also available, as is semi-aniline leather for an even more refined look and feel. Interiors are available in Black, Light Gray, and Parchment. Trim colors and materials include Piano Black, Espresso Bird's-eye Maple, and Bamboo.

Crisp, Confident Driving Dynamics
Suspension and steering changes and a stiffer body deliver more precise handling. Opposite-wound coil springs on the front suspension enhance straight-line stability. Revised rear suspension geometry and improved shock absorber damping characteristics enhance ride comfort. A reduction in the steering gear ratio delivers a more responsive and direct steering feel. Increased body rigidity is achieved through lightweight, high tensile strength steel, added bracing and additional spot welds. Despite its larger size, roomier interior and additional luxury appointments, the weight of the new ES is reduced by almost 90 pounds.

The ES will be equipped with standard 215/55R17 low rolling resistance tires on 17-inch alloy wheels, and for the first time, available 18-inch high-gloss alloy wheels.

Driver-Focused Cockpit
Designed with attention to ergonomics and driver focus, the cockpit features separate display and operation zones to help keep the driver's eyes on the road. The instrument panel, with its long, layered look, places the main information display directly in the driver's line of sight. Just below the center display is a self-illuminating LED analog clock. Controls are clustered beneath the information zone, on the steering wheel, and on the center console.

The second-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) allows the user to operate the climate, audio, phone controls, optional navigation system and more. The screen menus are selected with a controller conveniently located on the center console. RTI reduces eye and hand movement, helping reduce effort and distraction.

Safety Features
An array of safety features aid the driver. The available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) helps detect vehicles in side blind spots. The RCTA alerts the driver to rear cross traffic when backing out of a parking spot. Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is integrated with automatic high beam dimming technology. The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) uses sub-millimeter wave radar to detect obstructions and prepare the vehicle for a potential collision.

The ES features a segment-leading 10 airbags as standard equipment, including driver and front passenger knee and front air bags, as well as front and rear seat-mounted side and curtain airbags. Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to limit excessive head movement in certain rear-end collisions helping to decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries.

Lexus Safety Connect, including Enhanced Roadside Assistance, an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Stolen Vehicle Location services, and Automatic Collision Notification to a Safety Connect center is standard on the new ES. A one-year trial subscription for Safety Connect is included.

Lexus Multimedia
The new ES features the next-generation Lexus Enform system. Lexus Enform provides seamless connectivity with Bing search, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable, Pandora, Yelp and Facebook Places through compatible smart phones. Apps are updated through over-the-air downloads, so new apps and content can be added as they become available. One-year trial subscriptions to Lexus Enform with Safety Connect and the Application Suite are included.

The standard Lexus Premium Sound System features eight speakers with Automatic Sound Levelizer, CD player, USB/iPod connectivity, Bluetooth and a SiriusXM receiver. The available Display Audio package adds a seven-inch screen, a backup camera, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, Bluetooth audio, phone transfer, and a vehicle information display. The optional HDD Navigation System includes voice command and an integrated backup camera.

An available 15-speaker Mark Levinson audio system features an eight-inch display screen, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, DVD audio/video and a SiriusXM receiver. Exclusive GreenEdge technology from Mark Levinson doubles the output of the amplifier, while reducing energy consumption by fifty percent.

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Infiniti Etherea Concept, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

•  Infiniti Etherea Concept, 2011

Making its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the Infiniti Etherea Concept re-imagines the compact luxury car for a discerning new generation of younger buyers, while providing a glimpse of a future European Infiniti line-up where the brand's convention-defying distinctiveness reaches into the compact class for the first time.

Encapsulating everything that Infiniti stands for - including no-compromise hybrid power and maximum driving pleasure - in a car 4.4m long, Infiniti Etherea Concept proposes a bold new approach to the premium compact segment. Its dynamic character and highly sculptural, near mono-volume form provide a silhouette unlike anything currently in the class.

Performance
Infiniti Etherea Concept's segment-busting appeal is based on the coming together of several vehicles styles. It is part elegant coupé, part spacious sedan, part practical hatchback and even part tall crossover. And being an Infiniti, there is also a large helping of sports car in the way it drives.

Like all Infinitis, Etherea puts driving pleasure high up alongside design. The concept car has been designed for a potent yet highly efficient hybrid drivetrain based around an in-house platform and the innovative one electric motor/twin clutch system used in the Infiniti M35h, the marque's first hybrid currently going on sale around Europe.

A supercharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 245 PS provides quick response and strong acceleration throughout the performance range. Boosting power when more is needed, and providing silent, emission-free driving at low speeds, is an electric motor. The transmission is a continuously variable (CVT) type and, in an Infiniti first, drive is to the front wheels.

Like the M35h, the hybrid powertrain is designed to use clean electric power more often, for longer periods and at higher speeds than hybrids generally manage, endowing Infiniti Etherea Concept with a hybrid's advantages out on the open road as well as in busy city streets. This maximises efficiency and cuts CO2 emissions even further while imposing no compromises on the driving front.

Independent suspension, regenerative braking and advanced drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering further enhance the balance between performance and greenness.

Design
Designed in Japan under the direction of Shiro Nakamura, Etherea is more coupé than hatchback in inspiration, with many Infiniti flourishes first seen on the Essence concept supercar. However, Infiniti Etherea Concept's elegant profile is not at the expense of practicality. Despite appearances, Etherea boasts a large lift-up tailgate.

Utilising an in-house platform developed for use by Infiniti, the long wheelbase and minimal overhangs guarantee characteristic Infiniti visual poise and sporting appeal. The bonnet may not be as long as that of rear-drive Infinitis, but the proportions are just as finely judged and the overall look just as balanced, with the unique crescent C-pillar offering a dynamic, and very distinctive, Infiniti signature.

The spacious four-seat cabin offers all the luxury that Infiniti owners expect plus unrivalled ease of access and egress, boosted by an H-point which is higher than that of the average compact luxury car. Four wide opening doors, rear-hinged at the back, and an absence of B-pillar offer an unprecedented feeling of openness.

Familiar Infiniti design language has evolved to meet the challenge of the concept car. The headlights, for example, define the Infiniti "face" more clearly than ever. With a subtly curving shape, the lamps incorporate daytime running lights formed out of a crescent of LEDs. Going forward, the new lights are destined to become a familiar Infiniti characteristic.

Project leader and exterior designer, Giichi Endo, says Etherea can be summed up as a "four-door coupé with five-door practicality - a hatchback that doesn't look like a hatchback." Key was managing the new front-wheel drive architecture - all very different from the rear-drive FM platform that Infiniti designers are used to working with - to provide the traditional Infiniti "seductive lustre" to the design while delivering the interior roominess crucial for a car in the 4.4m class.

Wide opening doors, the rear doors hinged at the back, and no B pillar were central to the idea of being able to make the cabin as open and welcoming as possible. Access is further eased by the car's height. Infiniti Etherea Concept is not a crossover but with a driver H (hip) point higher than in a regular compact car, it does hint at the easy access and commanding driving position that distinguish an Infiniti such as the FX. The designers have dubbed the slightly elevated body style the "Lift-up".

The front of Infiniti Etherea Concept offers an unmistakable impression of solidity. In a design that instantly links it to the rest of the Infiniti family, the high bonnet line is fronted by a deep grille. An updated version of Infiniti's familiar double arch design, the grille's translucent mesh finish with illumination is both entirely functional and highly artistic.

Shiro Nakamura says in profile there is a suggestion of a mono-volume design - very different from current contenders in the compact luxury segment.

The design highlight for Nakamura, however, is the area around the base of the A-pillar - as he says, one of the most complex areas for a designer to get right in any car. In Etherea, this area is executed in a style unlike that of any other car - apart from Essence, which again provides the inspiration. Key to making it work is the front fender whose exaggerated length extends to the A-pillar in a highly sculptural coming together of planes. A small quarter window in the A-pillar guarantees a clear view out. It all makes for a contemporary and innovative design that injects energy into the whole car.

Comfort, space and craftsmanship
Just as the front-wheel drive platform presents new design opportunities for an Infiniti on the outside, so too does it allow a bold new approach in the cabin. With its flat floor and welcoming openness, Infiniti Etherea Concept's interior is designed for comfort and space while offering the luxury and craftsmanship Infiniti buyers expect. As Francois Bancon says, "Your first premium luxury car experience should feel like this."

The B-pillar-less design and opposing doors opens up the cabin and highlights its easy access and excellent roominess. With no transmission tunnel and a flat floor, the welcoming openness of Etherea's cabin extends throughout the car, with only elegantly slender consoles between the four seats to act as armrests and house ancillary controls.

Like any Infiniti the driving position is sporting. The control layout is very driver centric, though not in a way that excludes passengers. Here is a concept where the luxury and sportiness can be shared by all. For example, the centre of the dashboard features twin screens, both as easily accessible to the front seat passenger as the driver. The lower, nearer display is a touch-screen for control of functions such as climate control and entertainment, while the screen further away is used purely to display information.

Harmonious design and materials are central to Infiniti Etherea Concept's interior, just as they are to any Infiniti. Features making their debut on Etherea include Kumihimo, the kimono-inspired piping on the seats, and Inuyarai, the striking vertical strips on the inside of the doors. Etherea also debuts Infiniti's newest trim, a version of the parchment paper-style finish known in Japanese as Washi. The new finish is called Kasane-Washi and introduces a new way of layering the paper, enhancing its texture. The craftsmanship in Infiniti Etherea Concept is inspired by Japanese culture and re-interpreted through leading-edge technologies.

As an exploration of a future entry-level Infiniti production model, Etherea breaks free of existing market segments while showing that Infiniti, with the help of its Alliance partners, is serious about competing in both the compact luxury class and in Europe.

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Jaguar XF Sportbrake, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

•  Jaguar XF Sportbrake, 2013

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake takes Jaguar's globally acclaimed sporting saloon and extends its versatility and practicality while retaining the model's core values of dramatic, muscular elegance, a dynamic driving experience and contemporary luxury.

"The XF epitomises the Jaguar sporting dynamic with its combination of innovative, seductive design and performance. In the XF Sportbrake this is complemented by a no-compromise approach to practicality and versatility." Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake builds on the extensive refresh received by the XF saloon for the 2012 model year which saw it adopt a more assertive appearance in line with the flagship XJ model - including striking new lightblade headlamp technology.

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake is entirely new from the B-pillar backwards, endowing it with a very different aesthetic, exemplified by the tautly-drawn elegance of the side-window line and highlighted by its polished finish. The conjunction of flowing rear window graphic, rising waist and estate roofline lends the XF Sportbrake a dynamic, broad-shouldered stance.

The design-led approach that created the Jaguar XF Sportbrake's exterior has been achieved in tandem with the goal of maximising practicality. The extended roofline affords rear-seat passengers an additional 48mm of headroom and the seats offer both a 60:40 split fold function and integral ski hatch. Remote-fold levers inside the load-space opening allow the seats to be stowed flat quickly and easily, creating a cargo volume of up to 1675 litres.

Befitting the Jaguar XF Sportbrake's perfect balance between usability and beauty, it is powered exclusively by Jaguar's range of powerful, refined and efficient diesel engines, driving the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The 2.2-litre engine is fitted with Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system, making it the company's most efficient powertrain to date, while the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 is available in two states of tune, with 275PS in the range-topping Diesel S.

DESIGN
Launched in 2008, the XF introduced a coupe-like profile to the sporting saloon template and received plaudits worldwide for its seductive combination of dynamics, performance, quality, design and luxury.

Substantially redesigned both inside and out for the 2012 model year, the saloon is now joined by the Jaguar XF Sportbrake which builds on the model's undoubted performance credentials and provides an additional level of practicality.

The Jaguar design philosophy is based on the smooth, uninterrupted flow of lines that lead the eye along and around the vehicle and this is readily apparent in the Jaguar XF Sportbrake which, despite sharing an identical wheelbase with the saloon, is imbued with even greater presence.

The first of these elegantly simple feature lines begins in the propeller-inspired blades fitted to the side air intakes, leading the eye into the lower wing crease and then along the sills of the car and around the rear bumper. The second feature line runs up from the outer edge of the same intakes, defining the edges of the front wings before wrapping the entire way around the car, creating the XF Sportbrake's muscular shoulder line.

Sharing the same new lightblade headlamp technology as the saloon, the Jaguar XF Sportbrake also adopts the new, more upright grille and purposeful bonnet, giving it an enhanced 'rear-view mirror' recognition factor. The lights themselves feature bi-function HID xenon technology and LED daytime-running lights arranged in a distinctive Jaguar 'J-Blade' pattern.

From the leading edges of the grille, strong feature lines rise over the bonnet, then seamlessly into the A-pillars and over the roof, defining the load area before flowing down to form the slope of the tailgate and rear bumper. The roofline itself is echoed by polished roof rails (when specified) that add both functionality as well as a strong feature element. The signature Jaguar side window graphic is here seen in its most elegant and elongated form, stretched backwards to the rear windscreen like a taut bowstring and highlighted with a brightly polished finish.

The clever conjunction of the side window graphic tapering down to meet the rising shoulder line not only emphasises the Jaguar XF Sportbrake's strong haunches but also helps the rear roofline appear to taper elegantly towards the tail. This impression of fluidity is heightened by the use of gloss black finishers on the rear pillars, providing a wraparound effect in conjunction with the tinted rear screen, an aesthetic inspired by the superstructures of luxury yachts. The rear lamps feature LED technology for brake, light and indicator functions and, by their width and the manner in which they sandwich the chrome signature blade, emphasise the solid rear stance of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake.

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake is  available with two optional exterior design packages that serve to further strengthen the assertiveness of its appearance. The Aero Pack (standard on the 'S' model) adds a deeper front bumper, side sills and rear valance plus a rear spoiler enhancement - a tailgate spoiler being standard on all models. The Black Pack replaces the exterior bright finishes with gloss black and pairs them with similarly finished alloy wheels to create new colour combinations that are subtly distinctive and eye-catching.

THE INTERIOR
As with the exterior, the cabin of the XF has been upgraded to ensure it retains that essential Jaguar appeal, creating a sense of sporting luxury by using the finest combinations of premium quality, crafted materials, complemented by the use of intuitive technology.

A centrally-mounted touch-screen offers control of the navigation system and a range of other functions, while the switchgear features new soft-touch matt black paint and a soft phosphor blue illumination theme throughout. The metallicAurorafinish to the majority of the brightwork complements new aluminium and veneer accents. More sculpted, heavily bolstered front seats introduced for the 2012 model year hint at the dynamic potential of the car and feature a 'racetrack' design device that creates a sporting bucket seat aesthetic.

For the Jaguar XF Sportbrake, entirely new rear seats, which allow generous seating for five, are comprehensively redesigned and feature an integral ski hatch and a 60:40 split. Rear passengers also enjoy an additional 48mm of headroom.

Remote-fold levers situated just inside the tailgate allow the rear seats to be folded down with just one touch to provide an uninterrupted load surface that is 1970mm in length. The practicality of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake's load-space is further enhanced by its width which allows, for instance, sideways stowage of golf clubs. The tailgate features soft-close power latching and can be specified with a fully powered open and close function.

The load-space displays Jaguar's typical attention to detail as it is trimmed in materials identical in quality to the Jaguar XF Sportbrake's cabin. The central portion of the load-space floor can be lifted to reveal an extra, hidden storage compartment and can also fold and lock into position to quickly and easily divide up the bay.

The practicality of the load-space is extended through the inclusion of a floor rail system, which allows the quick fitment and release, for example, of optional nets and retaining bars to compartmentalise the space. A wide range of accessories engineered for the Jaguar XF Sportbrake will allow owners to extend its versatility still further by organising or extending its carrying capacity.

A towbar can also be specified - when not needed the tow-hitch can be removed quickly, stored in a dedicated stowage space inside the boot, and replaced with a rear valance cover to disguise its mounting point. When fitted with the towbar, the Jaguar XF Sportbrake's Trailer Sway Mitigation system is activated. This uses the car's Anti-Lock Braking and stability control systems to reduce the risk of 'snaking' when towing.

DYNAMICS
The Jaguar XF Sportbrake firmly emphasises both the practical and sporting sides of its character through its powertrain choices. Exclusively fitted with Jaguar's range of four-cylinder 2.2-litre and V6 3.0-litre diesel engines, the XF Sportbrake offers an exemplary combination of refinement, fuel economy, low emissions, plentiful power and refinement.

The 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine is offered in combination with an eight-speed gearbox and Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system, enabling the Jaguar XF Sportbrake to offer the performance and driver appeal expected of a Jaguar with reduced emissions and improved fuel consumption. When the car comes to a halt a range of parameters are automatically assessed and, if suitable, the engine is stopped. A Twin Solenoid Starter then restarts the engine in less time than it takes the driver's foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. The system also offers 'change of mind' functionality, enabling the engine to quickly restart even during its rundown phase to allow the driver to, for example, exploit a gap in traffic at a junction.

Jaguar's 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine is offered in two states of tune in the Jaguar XF Sportbrake, both mated to the same eight-speed gearbox that in all models offers driver control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The range-topping 'S' model offers 275PS (202kW) and 600Nm (442lb/ft) of torque, fulfilling all the requirements of an enthusiastic driver.

Every derivative of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake is fitted as standard with self-levelling air suspension at the rear to replace the coil springs fitted to the saloon. This system has been developed and tuned by Jaguar's chassis engineers to offer the same linear responses and ensure the XF Sportbrake offers identical dynamic attributes in terms of ride and handling as the saloon while keeping the car level even when fully laden.

Additionally, all Jaguar XF Sportbrake models are available with the Jaguar Adaptive Dynamics system which continuously monitors the suspension and, courtesy of active dampers, can alter damping rates up to 500 times a second to ensure optimal stability and handling with no loss of comfort. The system also allows the driver - at the touch of a button - to alter suspension and throttle response parameters to increase the level of involvement.

The intuitive use of driving technology is also evident in the XF Sportbrake via safety features including Adaptive Front Lighting, which deflects headlamp beam into corners, while intelligent high beam functionality automatically switches between low and high beam when appropriate. Adaptive Cruise Control enables the XF Sportbrake to monitor vehicles around it, automatically braking should a slower vehicle be ahead, then resuming set speed once the road is clear. Operating in conjunction with Adaptive Cruise Control is an Intelligent Emergency Brake system which, in the event of detecting the necessity for a severe stop, applies maximum optimal braking force.

JAGUAR XF SPORTBRAKE DIMENSIONS

•     Length: 4966 mm
•     Width (inc. mirrors): 2077 mm
•     Width (exc. mirrors): 1877 mm
•     Wheelbase: 2909 mm
•     Front track: 1559 mm
•     Rear track: 1605 mm
•     Load-space maximum length: 1970 mm
•     Load-space minimum width: 1064 mm
•     Load-space maximum volume: 1675 litres
•     Load-space volume behind rear seats, under tonneau: 550 litres
•     Permitted trailer load, braked: 1850kg

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Infiniti M35h GT, 2013

 

 

•  Infiniti M35h GT, 2013

The choice for the world's fastest-accelerating hybrid saloon has just got easier. A new Infiniti M35h GT version of the record-breaking Infiniti V6 saloon delivers all the performance and low emissions for which the M35h is known - but at a considerably more attractive starting position. The additional model at £41,101 costs £3,970 less than the Infiniti M35h GT Premium which until now was the sole version available.

The Infiniti M35h GT arrives in Infiniti Centres from July 2012, and in common with every new M the line-up benefits from a highly competitive new price structure as well as several enhancements, including a soft-closing boot function.

The additional entry model ensures Infiniti's "no compromise" hybrid approach reaches as large a market as possible. A recent reduction in CO2 emissions further cuts running costs with both versions of the M35h falling below the important 160g/km tax threshold.

Previously the navigation system was available only as part of a package with 16-speaker Bose surround sound. But, in response to customer wishes, a new separate option of Connectiviti+, Infiniti's navigation/entertainment system, has been introduced on GT and S models at a highly competitive £1800 - a price that also includes one of the most sophisticated climate control systems available, Forest Air.

The option, if taken, will add to the famously generous specification expected from any Infiniti product. On an 'M' these include such items as semi-aniline leather seat facings, heated and ventilated front seats, bi-Xenon headlights with Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS), alloy wheels and White Ash wood trim finished with real silver powder.

As before, M30d S, M30d S Premium and M37 S Premium add a sporting focus with larger alloy wheels, 4-Wheel Active Steering, and sports suspension, brakes and seats, along with black lacquer trim in the cabin.

Well established in the range, Infiniti's top-selling 'Premium' models are equipped with Infiniti's complete suite of safety and convenience technologies including Blind Spot InterventionTM, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Prevention (LDP).

The overall quality of the Infiniti M has also been recognised within the American J.D. Power Initial Quality Study. The Infiniti M came top of the Midsize Premium Car segment ahead of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

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