Hyundai Elantra GT, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Hyundai Elantra GT, 2013

The Hyundai Motor America introduced the all-new 2013 Elantra GT in a North American debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Hyundai Elantra GT brings five-door functionality and European driving dynamics to the expanding Elantra lineup and is slated to hit dealerships in summer 2012. The lineup now includes Elantra Coupe and the popular Elantra sedan, the 2012 North American Car of the Year. Hyundai Elantra GT is based on the new-generation i30 model designed for the European market.

The 2013 Elantra GT will compete with the Ford Focus, Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golf, featuring more interior volume than these models, unsurpassed fuel economy and Hyundai's Driver Selectable Steering Mode.

Hyundai Elantra GT is the third vehicle in Hyundai's 7/11 product initiative (seven new or redesigned models in the next 11 months). The first two vehicles in the initiative were the Veloster Turbo and refreshed Genesis Coupe. The fourth vehicle is the Elantra Coupe.

FURTHER EVOLUTION OF 'FLUIDIC SCULPTURE' DESIGN
The Hyundai Elantra GT represents further evolution of the Hyundai form language, 'Fluidic Sculpture' - the company's distinctive design DNA. The 'Fluidic' essence provides the Elantra GT with a slippery .30 coefficient of drag. Everything about Hyundai Elantra GT is aerodynamic from the aggressive profile and low overall height, to the sleek side mirrors. Tire gaps are minimized while rocker panels are streamlined. Lower wind resistance translates into better fuel economy and a smoother ride.

Up front, Hyundai's signature hexagonal grille with chrome accents flows into the hood. The bodyside graphic features a chrome beltline molding to keep up with the sleek character lines. Sharp projection headlamps, fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels with chrome spears complete the modern design.

BEST-IN-CLASS STANDARD FUEL ECONOMY
Hyundai Elantra GT's standard fuel economy is an estimated 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway and 32 combined with the six-speed automatic transmission or manual transmission. These figures give Elantra GT a highway-only driving range of more than 500 miles and combined city/highway driving range of up to 448 miles.

LIGHTEST FIVE-DOOR HATCHBACK IN THE COMPACT SEGMENT
Hyundai Elantra GT's widespread use of high-strength steel provides a 37 percent increase in body stiffness at a lower body weight when compared to the outgoing Elantra Touring model. High-strength steel allows the suspension to work optimally. At 2,784 pounds, the automatic transmission Elantra GT is lighter than its competitors, while offering more interior room than Focus, Mazda3, Golf and Matrix. Elantra GT is the lightest five-door hatchback in the compact segment. It is 175 pounds lighter than Focus, 151 pounds lighter than Mazda3 and 222 pounds lighter than Golf. This weight-efficient unibody architecture allows for Elantra to achieve an estimated 39 mpg EPA highway rating, without the need for a special eco model. Hyundai Elantra GT's best-in-class fuel efficiency is driven by the Blue Drive strategy. A key to Elantra GT's extensive use of high-strength steel is an $8 billion dollar investment Hyundai made to become the only global automaker with its own fully integrated steel plant. Hyundai has 400 metallurgists focused on the task of developing optimized steel recipes for every part and panel in new vehicle architectures.

MODERN POWERTRAIN
Under the hood, Hyundai Elantra GT is powered by a 1.8-liter Nu four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower and 131 lb-ft of torque (145 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque for Elantra PZEV). Thanks to advanced clean engine technology, most Elantra GTs sold in California, Oregon and several Northeast states are certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) by the EPA. The PZEV Elantra GT is as clean as many hybrid electric vehicles, helping Hyundai meet its environmental commitments. Elantra is also available as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Additionally, Hyundai Elantra GT has an ActiveECO System that modifies engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response and increase real-world fuel economy by up to seven percent.

The Nu engine features an aluminum cylinder head, crank and block with a cast iron cylinder liner. The 1.8-liter Nu also offers Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) camshafts and hydraulic engine mounts for optimum power, efficiency and refinement. Using CVVT on both camshafts has several advantages when compared with using it just on the intake camshaft. With D-CVVT, there is a two percent improvement in performance (increased volumetric efficiency), two percent improvement in fuel economy (reduced pumping loss) and a 30 percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. In the valvetrain, roller swing arms and hydraulic lash adjusters reduce valve driven friction to improve fuel economy by one percent, compared with direct valve driving. The Nu engine also features a maintenance-free silent timing chain system to enhance durability and improve Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).

The application of a composite resin two-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) versus aluminum, enables switching between long and short intake manifolds, resulting in a four percent improvement in performance, a 15 percent reduction in cost and a 30 percent reduction in weight.

Another tool Hyundai engineers have incorporated into Elantra GT is an electronic throttle control. The electronic throttle control replaces the conventional cable and mechanical linkage with fast responding electronics. This system accurately controls air intake and engine torque, improving drivability, response and fuel economy.

The Nu four-cylinder engine also has an offset crankshaft design that reduces friction between the piston and cylinder wall for a one percent improvement in fuel economy.

SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
The 2013 Elantra GT can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. Hyundai Elantra GT's six-speed manual transmission provides short, crisp shifts and further optimizes engine performance. These crisp shifts are courtesy of triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, double-cone for third gear and single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears.

INTERIOR SPACE AND PRACTICALITY
Maximizing interior volume and delighting customers with various seating layouts are hallmarks of Hyundai engineering and translate into more cabin room, cargo space and versatility. The Elantra GT features seating layouts that can comfortably seat five people or accommodate four passengers, plus long items like golf clubs or snowboards. Fold down two seats, to seat three people and hold larger packages or fold all of the back seats to get CUV-sized cargo space. These options allow customers to discover that Elantra GT has more interior volume than Matrix, Mazda3, Ford Focus and VW Golf and even more cargo capacity than the Nissan Juke crossover, thanks to fold-flat rear seats and rear seat cushions than can flipped upward.

The Hyundai Elantra GT includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglasses holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, cooled glove compartment, central console storage, sliding armrest, front storage tray, front seatback pockets and a cargo area under-floor storage. The cargo area also has a 12-volt outlet for consumers who desire an outlet to plug in their portable electronic devices.

ELANTRA GT ARCHITECTURE
Elantra GT is fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension, with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. The rear suspension is comprised of a light weight coupled torsion beam for enhanced steering stability and monotube shock absorbers. A 22 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Hyundai Elantra GT is tuned for added feel, responsiveness and control, while the Elantra sedan is tuned for comfort. Modifications to the GT include higher rear spring rates, a stiffer twist beam and Sachs dampers for improved body motion control. These changes create driving dynamics which are sporty and comfortable. In addition, two suspension packages were developed to optimize tuning for the two different tire sizes. The Elantra GT's Style package offers a sportier suspension calibration that is optimized for its lower-profile P215/45R17 tire.

Behind the wheel, drivers benefit from Hyundai's all-new Driver Selectable Steering Mode. With three operating modes to select - Comfort, Normal and Sport - this innovative system allows drivers to adapt Hyundai Elantra GT steering characteristics to varying driving preferences and road conditions any time they choose. Comfort level offers the greatest ease of steering and is ideal for city and parking environments. Sport is optimized for higher-speed highways or winding roads, while Normal is ideal for a mix of driving conditions. The Driver Selectable Steering Mode not only adjusts power assistance levels in each mode, but also on-center build-up feel and steering build-up curves throughout the steering range, for a very natural, progressive feel. Steering damping characteristics, active return gain, and high frequency friction levels have also been optimized for Elantra GT in this system. Even more, Elantra GT's turning diameter of 34.8 feet is better than Matrix, Focus and Golf.

OVERALL DIMENSIONS
The all-new Hyundai Elantra GT rides on a 104.3-inch wheelbase and has an overall length of 169.3 inches. The height is 57.9 inches and the width is 70.1 inches.

CABIN REFINEMENT
Cabin refinements on the all-new Elantra GT are inspired by the high standards of the entire Hyundai lineup. Located in the center console, the available navigation system is displayed via a seven-inch touch-screen and incorporates the rearview camera screen. Elantra GT's rearview camera is like no other. This mechanized camera is hidden behind the Hyundai flying H badge on the rear hatch and only appears when needed.

Dual-zone climate controls ensure a comfortable environment for all occupants during long journeys, and the addition of a panoramic sunroof provides increased natural light within the cabin. The Dual-zone climate controls also incorporate an automatic defogging system, which detects humidity levels using a sensor and removes it from the windshield. Another premium feature in the Hyundai Elantra GT is a CleanAir Ionizer that automatically cleans the air when the heater or air conditioner is running.

Elantra GT comes standard with a 172-watt AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six-speakers and iPod®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. A Bluetooth interface is also standard. The sound system plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. The SiriusXM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and Data services, such as NavWeather®, Stock Ticker and Sports Ticker. Users can even upload personal pictures from a USB rather than a CD to be displayed on the system's home screen.

Elantra GT offers many premium features, such as:
    Standard cooled glove box
    Standard heated front seats
    10-way power driver's seat including power lumbar support
    Clean Air Ionizer
    Leather seating surfaces
    Automatic headlights
    Side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators
    Standard steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls
    Standard Bluetooth hands-free system with voice recognition

HYUNDAI BLUE LINK
Hyundai Blue Link is standard on the 2013 Elantra GT. "Blue Link combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package that works to both help simplify Hyundai owners' lives and reduce distracted driving," said Barry Ratzlaff, director of customer satisfaction and service business development, Hyundai Motor America. "We've carefully studied how drivers rely on smart phones and navigation systems as an innovative link to the outside world. Blue Link brings that seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like voice-to-text messaging, POI web search download, turn-by-turn navigation, and monthly vehicle reporting. Our agent-assisted advanced voice recognition system offers a 21st century solution to performing POI searches in the vehicle. This unique and innovative approach enables Hyundai to deliver fast, accurate searches and downloads of POIs to vehicles without traditional operator-only type systems of our competitors."

Blue Link-equipped vehicles include core safety services for an introductory period. These key safety services include: Automatic Crash Notification (ACN) and Assistance, SOS Emergency Assistance, and Enhanced Roadside Assistance. After the introductory period, owners of Blue Link-equipped vehicles can choose to extend these and other services as desired.

Blue Link Assurance further expands Hyundai's industry leadership formerly established by Hyundai Assurance, the industry's most comprehensive suite of new-vehicle protection.

SAFETY FEATURES
The all-new Hyundai Elantra GT features the latest active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants. Active safety features include ESC (Electronic Stability Control), ABS (anti-lock braking system) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist and VSM (Vehicle Stability Management). In terms of passive safety, the Elantra GT will be fitted with seven airbags as standard - front, side and curtain including an Elantra-first driver's knee airbag.

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Kia Ceed, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Kia Ceed, 2013

Making its global premiere at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show is the all-new Kia cee'd. More sophisticated, more efficient, more refined and with a more engaging driving experience than its predecessor, new cee'd is expected to build on the success of the original model, further establishing Kia as one of the leading automotive brands in Europe.

Launched in 2007, the original cee'd was a landmark and game-changing model for Kia. Designed, developed and built in Europe, cee'd was the first model to establish Kia as a serious contender to the established brands. Winning praise from media and public alike for its all-round ownership proposition, cee'd claimed fourth place in the European Car of the Year Awards that year - the highest ever ranking for a Kia vehicle.

New cee'd five-door goes on sale across Europe from the second quarter of 2012, depending on market, and will play a significant role in driving Kia's sales in Europe even higher. Further information about other models in the new cee'd family - including the SW version displayed at Geneva - will be made available later this year.

Longer, lower and more streamlined
New cee'd is both longer and lower than its predecessor, giving the five-door hatchback a more sporty profile. Overall length is increased by 50 mm (to 4,310 mm) and overall height has been reduced by 10 mm (to 1,470 mm) by lowering the ride height. Despite being based on a completely new platform, new cee'd carries over the 2,650 mm wheelbase, one of the longest in the C-segment, from its predecessor.

This more athletic appearance is further enhanced by a wider track. While the overall bodyshell is 10 mm narrower, the front and rear track have been increased (by 17 mm and 32 mm, respectively). The impact on the car's aesthetics is heightened by the availability of 17- and 18-inch diameter alloy wheels, resulting in a minimal gap between tyres and bodywork.

The new model's sleek silhouette was shaped by extensive testing in the state-of-the-art wind tunnel at Kia's R&D centre at Namyang, Korea. A reduced windscreen angle, smooth covers beneath the engine bay and the central floor, a rear spoiler above the tailgate and carefully profiled rear lamp clusters all help new cee'd achieve a Cd figure of just 0.30, placing it among the best-in-class, and helping to reduce fuel consumption and cabin noise.

New Kia cee'd will be manufactured exclusively at Kia's Zilina facility in Slovakia in a range of 10 exterior colours - including five new - and will be among the first models to bear the new-look Kia badge on its bonnet. Simpler, sleeker and with a more modern appearance, the new badge design echoes the premium feel of new cee'd and incorporates the Kia script in a single raised section for greater legibility.

Powerful and efficient engines with six-speed transmissions
In developing new cee'd, Kia's engineers had a strong focus on reducing fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing engine response or power output. Updated engines and various small but impactful changes have resulted in an average fuel consumption improvement of four per cent across the model range.

Depending on individual market preferences, the new cee'd will be available with a wide choice of engines offering power outputs from 90 to 135 ps. Across most of Western Europe there will be two petrol engines - a 1.4 MPI and a 1.6 GDI producing 100 and 135 ps respectively - plus two diesels - a 1.4 WGT with an output of 90 ps and 1.6 VGT diesel offered in two states of tune (110 and 128 ps). Certain markets in Europe will also offer a 1.6 MPI petrol unit producing 130 ps.

Kia anticipates that its top of the range diesel - the highly-efficient 1.6-litre variable geometry turbo unit - will be the most popular choice in most markets. Generating 128 ps and 260 Nm, the engine will be offered with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions and will accelerate the new cee'd to 100 kph in less than 11 seconds. Fuel consumption will be just 4.1 l/100 km on the combined cycle (3.7 l/100 km in cars fitted with Kia's EcoDynamics technologies), and CO2 emissions start at just 97 g/km.

The 'Gamma' petrol engines also offer an excellent balance between performance and economy. The most powerful, the 1.6-litre Gamma GDI engine introduced in the Kia Sportage, features direct injection to maximise power (135 ps) and torque (165 Nm) while minimising fuel consumption and emissions. With this engine, new cee'd will accelerate to 100 kph in 9.9 seconds while delivering fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km (5.2 l/100 km with EcoDynamics), and tailpipe CO2 emissions from 119 g/km.

All engines will be offered with a choice of manual or automatic six-speed transmissions. Depending on version, the 1.6 GDI will also be available with Kia's all-new six-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which improves fuel efficiency and delivers smooth automatic gear shifts for maximum comfort.

Developed by Kia's in-house transmission development team in partnership with a German-based engineering firm, the DCT makes the Korean brand one of a very small number of car makers in the world to produce its own dual-clutch transmission.

The DCT combines two manual transmissions within a single housing, each with its own dry clutch. One transmission shaft is dedicated to 2nd, 4th, 6th and reverse gear, while the other operates with 1st, 3rd and 5th gears.

Working in parallel, one shaft prepares to engage the next ratio, while the other is still engaged with a gear. Electric motor-driven actuators controlled by the Transmission Control Unit (TCU) execute gear selection and clutch engagement, resulting in swift and precise gear changes and uninterrupted torque transfer to the driven wheels, with a minimum of the efficiency loss normally associated with conventional automatics (with a torque converter).

As with other Kia models in Europe, new cee'd will be available with fuel-saving technologies developed under the company's EcoDynamics™ sub-brand to optimise efficiency and lower emissions. These technologies, which will be available on both diesel and petrol models with manual transmission, include ISG (Start/Stop), low-rolling resistance tyres and an alternator management system (AMS).

Smoother ride with improved handling, plus variable power steering

Ride and handling for new cee'd was benchmarked against class-leading competitor vehicles from near-premium brands.

Fully-independent, subframe-mounted suspension with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link set-up at the rear exploit the newcomer's wider track to deliver improved handling and road-holding.

The hugely increased torsional rigidity of the new cee'd bodyshell (45 per cent stiffer than the original model), has also enabled Kia's engineers to introduce numerous small changes to components, springs and shock absorbers that influence ride quality, refinement and NVH.

Improvements to the front suspension include an increased castor angle (from 4.4 to 5.2 degrees) for greater straight-line stability, larger wheel bearings in a reinforced hub, and larger diameter bushes for the subframe attachments. At the rear, geometry changes ensure more accurate tracking, the trailing arms have larger bushes and friction has been reduced throughout the system.

The standard steering system employs electric power-assistance and requires 2.85 turns lock-to-lock for a 10.34-metre turning circle. New cee'd is also available, on certain models, with an all-new Flex Steer™ system for improved driving dynamics. This system introduces three operating modes - comfort, normal and sport - allowing the driver to vary the level of steering assistance and the weight of feedback, in order to best suit the current driving conditions and the driver's personal preferences.

Less cabin noise, more cabin space
Kia's engineering team was determined to achieve significant improvements over the previous model in terms of cabin refinement and NVH. Measures adopted include fitting 14 per cent thicker front door window glass, low-drag exterior mirror housings, new vibration-damping engine mounts, hollow drive shafts, stronger bodyshell joints between the sills and B-pillars, double-layer door seals, and increased foam-filling in the A-, B- and C-pillars. As a result of these measures, cabin noise levels have been cut to match class-best standards.

Although the 2,650 mm wheelbase is carried over for new cee'd, the increase in overall length contributes to more interior space for people and cargo. Front seat occupants have 12 mm more headroom and 21 mm more legroom, while rear passengers gain 5 mm of shoulder room. Cargo capacity is boosted by 12 per cent to 380 litres (up 40 litres) with the rear seats upright and the split-folding rear seats can be made fully flat for maximum versatility.

High-quality equipment and advanced technologies
Higher quality cabin materials and a broader range of high-tech equipment will ensure the interior of new cee'd matches the premium exterior appearance.

Primary and secondary controls are grouped in a driver-oriented layout for intuitive ease of use, while new standard equipment will include tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, iPod, Aux and USB support, six speaker audio system and a multi-mode trip computer.

A choice of bright chrome, piano black and anodized metal trim accents will be offered, while indirect LED lighting of the centre console and sweeping 'vertical fin' door handles establish an upmarket ambience for the cabin. The seat and cabin trim will be available in a choice of two colours as standard - black one-tone and stone beige two-tone - in cloth, with a full leather interior available on high specification versions.

The features will include enhanced instrumentation - with a TFT 'Supervision' Cluster delivering high-definition resolution clarity of the instrument binnacle, dual-zone climate control, powered driver's seat adjustment with memory and a full length (1,045 mm long) powered panoramic glass sunroof.

New Kia cee'd will be available, depending on version, with LED daytime running lights, fixed cornering lamps (illuminated depending on steering angle), and advanced HID headlamps that turn the low beam to match curves in the road and enhance the driver's night vision.

Parking can be made easier with the new Parallel Park Assist System (PPAS). This features front, side and rear sensors and automatic steering control by an on-board computer to safely perform parallel parking. The driver remains in control of the accelerator and brake.

Safety structure and features target maximum rating
Kia continues to make safety a top priority and the new cee'd features advanced active and passive safety technologies to ensure maximum protection for its occupants and other road users. Kia is determined to achieve the maximum rating when tested by EuroNCAP with this new model.

Available active safety features will include ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ABS (anti-lock braking system), BAS (emergency Brake Assist System), HAC (Hill Assist Control) to prevent roll-back, VSM (Vehicle Stability Management) and ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) which flashes the brake lights when the system detects that the driver is making an emergency stop.

In terms of passive safety, the bodyshell is constructed using a high percentage (57 per cent) of ultra high-tensile steel and features numerous improvements to enhance impact resistance. New transverse cross-members are fitted to link the front and rear suspension mounts, new pressings link the rear trunk floor to the tailgate opening and the rear roof rail is connected to the C-pillars and a new floor cross-member to create an extremely strong 'safety ring'.

Side impact protection is enhanced with 50 per cent thicker door beams, plus a stronger roof cross-member between the B-pillars and side sills made from ultra high-tensile steel.

Each new cee'd is fitted with six airbags as standard - front, front side and full length curtain. Pedestrian safety is improved with the adoption of collapsible headlamps, a stiffer lower bumper lip, and shock-absorbing structures in the hood and its hinges.

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Lotus Evora GX Racecar, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Lotus Evora GX Racecar, 2013

Hot off the back of unleashing the Evora GTC racer, Lotus Racing engineers have been honing the Lotus Evora GX to meet the requirements of North America's legendary sports car series, the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

Late in the 2012 season the Evora will race under the Rolex Series' GT rules as GX rules begin in 2013. With the Lotus Evora GX, the driving experience is even more pure, and the beefy body kit is even more aggressive.

McMahon Raceworks with Condor Motorsport have placed an order for their Lotus Evora GX, and the team led by David McMahon with Armando Trentini as lead driver and consultant, will enter the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series.

Like the GTC, carbon-fibre doors, roof and engine cover have replaced the SMC and RTM composite panels of the previous evolution GT4 Enduro, and Plexiglass replaces the polycarbonate windows in order to trim yet more weight off what is already a very light car. At 1,150kg, it tips the scales at just 10kg over the weight of the GTC model, despite being fitted with the much thicker US-spec roll cage

There are aerodynamic changes too, with a new front splitter and front bumper, and the standard Rolex Series rear wing which, along with the car's wide wheels and flared arches, give it very mean stance. To meet other series requirements, ABS and traction control have been removed, putting more emphasis on driver skill.

There's also a new fuel filler system, Continental tyres, and yellow headlamps in order to tick all the race series specific boxes. The 4-litre V6 continues to pump out 440bhp and 440Nm of torque, linked to an XTRAC six-speed sequential paddle-shift. The GX is priced at $335,000.00 and will be built to order.

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, 2013

 

 

•  Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, 2013

At the 2012 Paris Motorshow Automobili Lamborghini is presenting the most successful super sports car of its entire history with a new design - even more aggressive, and more extreme: the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and the LP570-4 Edizione Tecnica. The new Gallardo LP560-4 - equipped with permanent four wheel drive- has a new front end and a new rear, while top models in the Gallardo line-up,the LP570-4 Superleggera and the LP570-4 Spyder Performante, will be offered also as the further enhanced Edizione Tecnica. The six models of the Gallardo family are now clearly differentiated and can be customized perfectly to suit every type of driver.

The new Gallardo models will be available at Lamborghini dealerships from November 2012.

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4
The unique design with its razor-sharp lines is one of the key factors in its great success worldwide. Nearly 13,000 units have already left the Sant'Agata Bolognese factory.

The Gallardo design has now been further accentuated in the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The new front end is characterized by triangular and trapezoidal forms - two shapes that are highly typical of the Lamborghini design language. Divided by diagonal elements in body color and in black, the overall look of the front end is broader and more forceful, giving it an even stronger bond with the road.

To complete the new look larger air intakes have been created ahead of the front wheels and the new 19-inch "Apollo polished" alloy wheels, painted in matt black and featuring precision-machined spokes in polished silver.

Even more dynamic rear end design on the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4. The triangle and trapezoid are, of course, the characteristic design elements here, too. The air outlet for the power unit now has now a wider surface area, which improves its thermodynamic efficiency. A new Style Package is available as an option and offers high-gloss black paintwork on the underside of the front spoiler, front and rear grilles and the transverse element of the rear trim to give the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 an even more powerful look.

The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Edizione Tecnica
With a more determined lightweight design, a focus on high performance and a purist look, the LP570-4 Superleggera and the LP570-4 Spyder Performante mark the very pinnacle of the Gallardo family. As Edizione Tecnica, they benefit from a further improved equipment level and an even more individual look. Features of the Edizione Tecnica include the fixed high rear wing, as well as brakes in carbon-ceramic technology. They combine low weight with outstanding fade resistance and durability. The power to weight ratio down to an outstanding 2,35 allows the car to be taken as one of the best references in the segment.

The Edizione Tecnica underscore sits very special look with three new exclusive optional color combinations, whereby the entire roof arch and front air intakes are painted in a contrast color. The available shades are: Nero Nemesis (matt black) body with Arancio Argos (orange) pillars and front air intakes, Bianco Canopus (matt white) body with Arancio Argos pillars and front air intakes, and Arancio Argos body with Nero Nemesis pillars and front air intakes.

In addition to this, all the new Gallardo models can be customized to a virtually limitless degree with the exclusive and well known: "Ad Personam" Lamborghini program.

The new LP560-4 and the Edizione Tecnica for the LP570-4 Superleggera and Spyder Performante, underline - even in terms of design - the differences in mechanical and driving experience among the four-wheel drive versions of the Gallardo range.

In fact, beside the Gallardo four-wheel drive, the two-wheel drive Gallardo LP550-2 in Coupe and Spyder format are still available. With its purist rear-wheel drive, it appeals to drivers that prefer a highly active and engaged driving style. The Gallardo LP550-2 offers the unique design and performance of a Lamborghini in a simple and uncomplicated form.

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Porsche Panamera GTS, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• Porsche Panamera GTS, 2012

More power and upgraded brakes, a body lowered by ten millimetres and the especially sportily tuned chassis with air suspension and PASM are the major technical modifications that make Porsche Panamera GTS the model capable of cutting it on the racing circuit - without sacrificing practicality. The sportiest of all Panamera models also conveys this to occupants and the outside world by its striking sound. In terms of looks, the new Porsche Panamera GTS signals its independence by distinctive design features in the front-end, side and rear area as well as black highlights. The interior as well is rigorously tailored to the sporty personality with sports seats, SportDesign steering wheel with shift paddles, exclusive GTS leather interior and Alcantara surfaces.

The power unit in the new Porsche Panamera GTS is a modified 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 430 hp (316 kW) at 6,700 rpm, trumping the engine in its Panamera S/4S sister models by 30 hp (22 kW). The maximum torque also increased by comparison, from 500 Nm to 520 Nm. The way in which at the push of a button the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmits the engine output to the all-wheel drive (PTM) -thanks to the Sport Chrono package featured as standard without interruption to the power flow -is especially dynamic. This collaboration enables the Porsche Panamera GTS to sprint to 100 km/h in under 4.5 seconds, accelerating on to its top speed of 288 km/h. With NEDC fuel consumption of 10.9 l/100 km - only 10.7 l/100 km with low-friction tyres - the Porsche Panamera GTS remains as much of an efficiency role model in its milieu as all Porsche models.

The standard values for sprint and top speed don't do full justice to the new Panamera GTS's sporty characteristics. Its chassis in particular makes it fit for the racing circuit: The adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) featured as standard connect the chassis and body, constantly adapting to the driving challenges by regulating levelling settings, adjusting height, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system. The damping is designed to be tauter, which helps agility and further reinforces the new Gran Turismo's sporty personality. Five millimetre thick wheel spacers between the wheel and the wheel carriers increase the rear axle track width, giving the Panamera an even more stable ride. The required grip is provided by 255/45 size 19-inch tyres on the front axle and 285/40 on the rear axle. Deceleration on the sporty Panamera is provided by the superlative braking system of the Panamera Turbo.

Engine and drive unit
4.8-litre V8 engine developing 430 hp (316 kW); Porsche Traction Management with active all-wheel drive; seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (with Launch Control); top speed of 288 km/h; NEDC fuel consumption 10.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 256 g/km; with low-friction all-season tyres 10.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 251 g/km.

The heart of the new Porsche Panamera GTS is its upgraded 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine benefiting from numerous modifications to give it even better performance. The 30 hp (22 kW) higher engine output compared with the power units in the Panamera S/4S goes hand in glove with a torque uplift of 20 Newton metres, the crankshaft now generates its maximum power of 520 Nm at 3,500 rpm.

To achieve these enhancements, the engineers increased the nominal engine speed by 200 rpm in typical sports engine construction fashion, the GTS's eight-cylinder engine achieves maximum output at 6,700 rpm. The full speed range was extended by all of 400 rpm, the maximum engine speed is 7,100 rpm. Integral to the high engine speed concept are modified valve springs with increased initial tension, ensuring that the valves open and shut precisely in all circumstances, ensuring in turn an optimal charge cycle. These engine characteristics enable the driver to change gear even later and use higher engine speeds when changing gear; allowing him to savour the dynamics of a sports car engine.

The second main focus area in revamping the eight-cylinder engine was optimising the charge cycle. A wider air intake with two additional air filter housings to the left and right at the front-end improve the air supply in the Porsche Panamera GTS. At low speeds a flap closes each of the two air intake openings. If the driver demands more power from the engine at engine speeds in excess of 3500 rpm, both flaps open and additional fresh air flows into the inlet duct. In addition, back pressure is generated at higher speeds and with it a slight charging effect that contributes to the increased output. In order to be able to handle the increased flow of combustion air optimally, two new camshafts with a one millimetre greater stroke control the intake valves on both banks of cylinders. As a result, especially at higher revs, the engine draws in more air, the cylinder charge increases and, with it, power.

Hearing performance: Sound Symposer transmits intake noises
At the push of a button, driver and passengers can hear the GTS engine "breathing" particularly well: the Sound Symposer directs the intake noise into the interior at the push of a button. This is done by an acoustic channel picking up the intake vibrations between the throttle valve and air filter. The acoustic channel incorporates a membrane that transmits the vibrations as an engine sound into the A-pillar. A controllable valve located in front of the membrane enables the Sound Symposer to be activated or deactivated by means of the Sport button.

The exhaust gases exit the Porsche Panamera GTS through a sports exhaust system, featured as standard, that comes with larger pipe diameters to reduce back pressure. This too is another building block in the increased output, and one which is audible into the bargain: the sports exhaust system features two tuning flaps, which expose additional exhaust openings, thereby emitting an even more powerful sound. The flaps are controlled by means of a switch in the centre console, which features a "last mode" function that remembers the last setting and restores it when the engine is started.

The control of the GTS power unit is handled by a modified and upgraded engine management system. It is discernible the moment the engine is started by a brief revving of the power unit. When driving, it ensures an even faster build-up in torque and thus a noticeably faster responsiveness. The modified engine management system also enables a brief shut-off of individual cylinders when changing gear, with the engine speed adjusting even faster to the transmission speed. This further reduces gear change times, accompanied by an engine sound akin to motor racing. A bonus with Sport mode selected is that a staccato engine sound and the so-called backfire, a short sharp report from the exhaust system that is particularly audible when changing down, ensures a full-bodied sports car sensation.

Chassis and driving dynamics systems
The Porsche Panamera GTS features a sporty chassis boasting performance-oriented options as standard. For example, adaptive air suspension including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) increases both comfort and driving dynamics by self-levelling, height adjustment, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system.

With the air suspension at its normal level the Porsche Panamera GTS also sits ten millimetres lower than the other models in the model line and its damping is designed to be tauter, further reinforcing the vehicle's sporty personality. Sporty performance is delivered by the combination of 19-inch Panamera Turbo wheels, five millimetre thick wheel spacers at the rear and the Panamera Turbo's braking system - recognisable by the red brake callipers.

Sport Chrono package for individual sportiness
The Porsche Panamera GTS meets particularly sporty requirements and therefore comes with the Sport Chrono package as standard, which in addition to the Normal and Sport modes offers the Sport Plus program as well. Specific characteristics of the Gran Turismo are further accentuated depending on which mode is selected: the engine responds more sensitively to changes in the accelerator pedal position, the transitions between traction and propulsion and vice versa become tauter and sportier and the load changes more spontaneous and dynamic. This instantaneous response is assisted by controlling the engine and PDK clutches that always slightly preload the entire drive line, so that every demand for power from the driver can be immediately translated into propulsion.

In Sport Plus mode, the PDK's response times become even shorter and the gear changes sportier. Even with only slight deceleration - even at high revs - in automatic mode a more dynamic braking downchange quickly kicks in. The change points as well are shifted towards higher revs, causing delayed upchanges and earlier downchanges. When changing up, the change in engine speed is deactivated so that when engaging the clutch to the next higher gear, a torque excursion ensures an additional propulsive boost.

Moreover, in Sport Plus mode the PSM stabilisation system kicks in later for greater longitudinal and transverse dynamics, making braking into corners perceptibly more agile: especially at low speeds, PSM now permits a sportier driving style when braking into corners and accelerating out of them, making for more driving fun in the process. The Sport Plus mode offers even greater agility with the PSM deactivated. For safety's sake, however, it remains on permanent standby in the background, intervening automatically if both front wheels are in the ABS control range. In addition, the adaptive air suspension lowers the vehicle to the low setting and switches to a harder spring rate. The rear spoiler angle of attack also changes to the performance-oriented setting.

Options for even greater driving dynamics: PDCC and PTV Plus
Porsche offers Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) as the final level of development of the Panamera GTS chassis, twinned with the electronically controlled rear axle differential lock and PTV Plus. PDCC prevents the body from rolling about the longitudinal axis of the vehicle by using active stabilisers on the front and rear axle to apply a countervailing force. The system also improves the vehicle's balance by dynamically distributing the roll torque. An even sportier setting of the PDCC is optimally tuned to the tauter damping of the PASM

The result: ultimate agility in every driving speed range as well as optimal cornering behaviour and stable load transfer behaviour.

The driving dynamics benefits of the PDCC are further enhanced by Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus). The system works by varying the torque distribution to the rear wheels and by employing an electronically regulated rear differential lock, optimising steering behaviour when being driven with a sporty driving style. Braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel generate an additional rotational pulse in the direction in which the steering wheel has been turned. This results in a direct and dynamic steering action as the car enters the curve.

PTV Plus complements this by improving traction as required when experiencing high lateral acceleration, when accelerating on road surfaces with varying levels of grip and when accelerating out of tight corners. During load transfer when cornering, the vehicle's turning motion into the corner is less pronounced as a result of the countervailing yaw moment built up by the rear axle differential lock and straight-line stability is improved. The result is high lateral dynamic vehicle stabilisation - i.e. chassis stability - optimal traction and high agility at any speed with precise and stable load transfer behaviour.

Body and equipment
In terms of its aerodynamics, the Porsche Panamera GTS is on a par with the Panamera Turbo: with its large air intake openings, the standard front section from the Panamera Turbo's SportDesign package emphasises the vehicle's sporty dynamics and ensures an optimal air supply for the back pressure air filters peculiar to the GTS.

This is matched in the tail section by fitting the adaptively deploying four-way rear spoiler from the Panamera Turbo. At a speed of 205 km/h and above it positions itself so as to generate downforce on the rear axle, thereby ensuring stable driving safety at high speeds.

Exterior: Sporty at first glance
The visual appearance of the Porsche Panamera GTS is characterised by numerous exterior accessories in black. The high-gloss black exterior package in particular, featured a standard, comprising the side window trim, the decorative trim on the rear lid, the headlight washer unit cover, the rear diffuser and the side air outlet panels, lends a sporty touch. Together with the black front end side terminators, the side skirts, the tail end and the sports exhaust system's matt black tailpipes the resulting appearance is clear-cut and striking.

A further point of differentiation: the bi-xenon headlights with black inner bezels. They feature four LED daytime running lights apiece, which - as with the Panamera Turbo - are not integrated into the front lights but accommodated in the main headlight. The optional paintwork in Carmine Red, available exclusively for the Porsche Panamera GTS, emphasises the vehicle's sportiness and provides an ideal contrast with the black exterior accessories.

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