Land Rover Defender Electric Concept, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Land Rover Defender Electric Concept, 2013

Land Rover is continuing to champion British innovation and cutting-edge automotive engineering by unveiling seven new Electric Defender models at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. The research vehicle delivers zero emissions while retaining its tough, go-anywhere capability.

The standard diesel engine and gearbox have been replaced by a 70kW (94bhp), 330Nm electric motor twinned with a 300-volt, lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 27kWh, giving a range of more than 50 miles. In typical, low speed off-road use it can last for up to eight hours before recharging. The battery can be fully charged by a 7kW fast charger in four hours, or a portable 3kW charger in 10 hours.

The electric vehicles (EVs) retain the Defender's legendary four-wheel drive system and differential lock. Because the electric motor delivers maximum torque from the moment it starts, there's no need for gear shifting and the transmission comprises a single speed, 2.7:1 reduction gearbox combined with the existing Defender four-wheel drive system. A modified version of Land Rover's Terrain Response® System has also been incorporated.

The vehicles were developed by Land Rover's Advanced Engineering Team following successful trials of the Defender-based electric vehicle, Leopard 1. The vehicles' capability has been tested in extreme and environmentally sensitive conditions, demonstrating capabilities not shared by conventional road-going EVs. Trials included pulling a 12-tonne 'road train' up a 13 percent gradient and wading to a depth of 800mm.

In keeping with Land Rover's 'Tread Lightly' philosophy the smooth, low-speed capability of the electric drivetrain makes the Electric Defenders especially well suited to climbing obstacles without damaging the ground unnecessarily.

The battery weighs 410kg and is mounted in the front of the Defender in place of the diesel engine. Kerb weight is 100kg more than a basic Defender 110 and ranges from 2055kg to 2162kg depending whether the body style is a pick-up, hard top or station wagon.

All the major components in the electric powertrain - including the battery, inverter and motor - are air-cooled rather than liquid cooled, saving a considerable amount of weight and complexity and adding robustness. Regenerative braking has been optimised to such an extent that using Hill Descent Control, the motor can generate 30kW of electricity. Because the battery technology can be charged very quickly at a rate of up to twice its capacity of 54kW without reducing battery life, almost all of the regenerated energy can be recovered and stored. Up to 80 percent of the kinetic energy in the vehicle can be recovered in this way, depending on conditions.

Though there are no plans for the all-terrain Electric Defender to enter series production, the seven EVs will go into service in specialist applications later in 2013.

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Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary, 2013

 

 

•  Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary, 2013

In celebration of its 50th birthday and against the backdrop of the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show, Automobili Lamborghini is presenting a very special super sports car with exclusive equipment and technology. The Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary is a limited and numbered series of 100 units worldwide. Each unit has a Forged Composite® badge with the 50° logo and a serial number.

With its output increased to 720 hp, its new performance-oriented front and rear design, the special paintwork and unique interior trim, this Aventador is one of the most exclusive models ever produced in the history of Lamborghini.

The Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary represents a new highlight of this globally successful model range with carbon-fiber monocoque, twelve-cylinder engine and permanent all-wheel drive. With its output of 720 hp, the 6.5-liter twelve-cylinder in the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary is 20 hp more powerful than the current V12 in the Aventador LP700-4. This is due to a new specific engine calibration. With its extremely fast-shifting ISR transmission, the anniversary model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 350 km/h.

The front and rear fascias of the 50th Anniversary model have been redesigned and the aerodynamics further optimized. The front air intakes and the aerodynamic splitter have been enlarged and extended, and small flaps set into the sides. The rear end is completely new and features an enlarged diffuser and expansive meshwork that further improves engine-compartment ventilation. Overall, handling stability at extreme speeds has been optimized without impacting drag characteristics due to an increase of more than 50% in the aerodynamic efficiency compared to the Aventador LP700-4.

The newly developed paintwork on the 50th Anniversary edition, Giallo Maggio (May yellow) is a tribute to the most preferred color chosen by Lamborghini costumers since the Miura and references the founding of Automobili Lamborghini in May 1963. The exclusive Giallo Maggio is an all-new color with a particularly intense glitter effect and will only be available on this edition. The structure of this paintwork in sparkling yellow includes a layer of transparent and highly reflective particles, that make the Aventador truly glisten, especially in the sun. The front and rear, as well as the sills, have a two-tone design in Giallo Maggio and matte black that emphasize the Aventador's streamlined shape. Matching perfectly are the wheels painted in high-gloss black. Naturally, the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary can also be ordered in every imaginable color through the Ad Personam individualization program.

The interior of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50th Anniversary is upholstered in an extremely fine, natural, semi-aniline leather. This leather, specifically developed for the Aventador 50th Anniversary, is worked through a particular tanning and coloring process that accentuates the full grain, natural look and smoothness of the leather. The colors offered are inspired by Lamborghini's home in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. Thus, Nero Ade (black) is combined with Terra Emilia, a shade of brown evoking the earth of the region, a color that evaluates the exclusive positioning of this model. An alternative color is Giallo Quercus, a yellow color matching the exterior and stressing the vehicle's sporty nature, is named for the yellow oak tree in the Sant'Agata Bolognese coat of arms. Featured in both versions is the exclusive Q-Citura stitch, a diamond pattern introduced especially for this celebratory model that highlights the Italian craftsmanship found in the interior of the Aventador 50th Anniversary.

At the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show Lamborghini is also presenting the Gallardo LP560-2 50th Anniversary. It is painted in Bianco Opalis, a shimmering white, and boasts exclusive features like the carbon-fiber rear wing from the Gallardo Superleggera and the transparent engine cover. Furthermore appearing in Shanghai are an Aventador LP700-4 Roadster in Bianco Isis and a Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder in Grigio Telesto.

All Lamborghini models built in the 2013 anniversary year feature the 50th anniversary emblem in the cockpit. Like every Lamborghini, it is made using a combination of hi-tech and artisanal craftsmanship - the emblem is produced in Forged Composite, a carbon-fiber material patented by Lamborghini. The glazed "50th" logo is then applied by hand by experienced specialists.

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Kia Sorento EU-Version, 2013

 

 

 

 

•  Kia Sorento EU-Version, 2013

There is an all-new platform and a more rigid bodyshell with additional front, side and rear structures to disperse impact energy. Torsional stiffness has been increased by 18 per cent compared with the previous model, thanks to the use of 25 per cent ultra-high-strength steels in the body construction. This should ensure New Kia Sorento maintains the five-star Euro-NCAP safety rating awarded to the previous model, despite increasingly tougher test conditions.

The length and width of the car are unchanged at 4,685 mm and 1,885 mm respectively, but New Sorento is 10 mm lower than the outgoing model at 1,700 mm as a result of a corresponding reduction in ride height. This has the benefit of lowering the centre of gravity, an ideal starting point for the much-improved on-road agility and responsiveness of New Sorento as well as improved access and easier loading ability as well.

Re-engineered chassis for a sharper drive
The sharper driving dynamics of New Sorento are also down to the major changes introduced to the suspension, steering and brakes. While the basic suspension layout of MacPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link arrangement at the rear has been retained, a new H-shaped front subframe and an additional reinforcement at the rear have improved straight-line stability and ride comfort and raised road holding through more precise tyre contact with the road. New high-performance dampers at all four corners, larger suspension bushes and longer trailing arms at the rear also add to New Kia Sorento's greater levels of comfort.

The hydraulic power steering system on the outgoing model has given way to Kia's widely used Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) in New Sorento. This saves fuel by drawing power from the engine only when the car is turning and improves agility thanks to a lower steering gear ratio. The Kia Flex-Steer system, which allows the driver to choose between Normal, Sport and Comfort levels of assistance according to where and how the car is being driven, is fitted to the range-topping 'KX-3' model. The 18-inch alloy wheels which are standard on' KX-3' are now 7.5 inches rather than 7 inches wide, increasing the contact patch on the road for greater traction and turning capability. They also help to improve stopping power, which benefits further from the larger front brake discs now fitted to all models. New Sorento requires up to 2.6 metres less than its predecessor to come to rest from 62 mph.

The suspension revisions also contribute to New Kia Sorento's greater refinement. In addition, a three-layer dash pad, a tunnel insulator and a redesigned wind deflector ahead of the panorama roof fitted to 'KX-3' help to reduce vibrations, boom and road noise entering the cabin - what engineers refer to as noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

Engine revisions lower fuel consumption, emissions and running costs
All versions of New Sorento are now powered by a revised version of Kia's 2.2-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine, driving all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox or the company's' six-speed automatic. A new exhaust-gas recirculation system has helped New Sorento achieve class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions of 47.9 mpg and 155 g/km (manual) - improvements of 5.7 mpg and 22 g/km over the outgoing model, which in turn rewards buyers with a saving of £155 in the first year's road tax (VED). The figures for New Sorento with the six-speed automatic transmission - still one of only a few to be completely designed, engineered and built in-house in the global auto industry - are 42.2 mpg and 175 g/km with the 17-inch wheels fitted to the majority of models, or 41.5 mpg and 178 g/km for KX-3 with 18-inch wheels. These represent reductions of up to 4 mpg and 19 g/km. Automatic versions of New Sorento have Kia's Active ECO feature which adjusts the operation of the engine and transmission to promote maximum fuel economy.

The 2.2-litre CRDi engine develops 194 bhp at 3,800 rpm and 422 Nm of torque from just 1,800 rpm, endowing New Kia Sorento with outstanding driveability on- and off-road. New Sorento accelerates from 0-60 mph in 9.4 seconds (manual) or 9.5 seconds (auto), and all versions have a top speed of 118 mph.

More space and luxury with additional equipment
The new platform which underpins New Sorento has improved space for passengers in rows two and three without any increase in the car's overall footprint or wheelbase. In the middle row there is an extra 30 mm of knee room and for occupants of the two rearmost seats an extra 9 mm of knee space.

All occupants benefit from more luxurious surroundings, with notable improvements in the soft-touch materials used to trim the cabin and higher levels of equipment for all four trim grades - 'KX-1', 'KX-2', 'KX-2 Sat-Nav' and 'KX-3'. Leather is used to trim the steering wheel of every model, the door pillars (except 'KX-1') and extendable sun visors are cloth-lined and chrome has been applied around the cabin as a garnish, while a wood grain finish on the 'KX-1' and 'KX-2' and metal inserts on the 'KX-3' have been added to the dash and door trims, giving New Sorento a premium look and feel. All versions apart from 'KX-1' have ambient lighting in the front centre console and door trims and every model has door sill scuff plates - aluminium on the two 'KX-2' models and aluminium with front illumination on 'KX-3'.

In 'KX-3' the standard three-dial instrument cluster has been replaced by a 7-inch TFT LCD multi-function high-definition display. In all models dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat air ventilation is fitted, allowing all occupants to fine-tune the temperature in their area of the cabin.

The new front centre console features flexible cup holders with a sliding cover, while the re-designed gearshifters of New Kia Sorento leave more space for storing small items. A slightly smaller boot of between 116 litres (seven seats upright) and 1,530 litres (all rear seats folded) includes an under-floor storage tray and power outlet. 'KX-2' and 'KX-3' variants have a luggage net.

Additional equipment to be found as standard on all versions of New Sorento includes body-coloured bumpers, chrome exterior door handles, aero blade-type front wipers, projection headlamps with cornering lights, electrically folding, adjustable and heated door mirrors, chrome interior garnish, rear air ventilation, LED daytime running lamps, cruise control, extendable sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors and a ticket pocket, reversing sensors, high-performance dampers and MDPS steering.

'KX-2' versions additionally now have rain-sensing front wipers, a leather-trimmed instrument panel and a 4.3-inch LCD colour touch-screen with reversing sensors. The 'KX-2 Sat-Nav' version adds a seven inch touch-screen navigation system with European mapping and Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC) while the luxurious 'KX-3' model also has the panoramic sunroof, Xenon adaptive front lighting with automatic levelling, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated outer rear seats, a heated steering wheel, a multi-function full colour display and the Flex-Steer.

The satellite navigation system is combined with a 10-speaker premium audio system delivering 495 watts of power. It includes a central speaker, external amplifier, sub-woofer and an 11-channel DSP amplifier for maximum surround-sound quality.

Refined sturdy looks point to outstanding safety
When Kia began designing the second-generation Sorento it took into account that SUV buyers are younger, increasingly likely to be female and often wealthy urbanites who want the car for family use rather than the traditional country lifestyle. New Sorento builds on the sophistication, refinement, design and quality of the outgoing model while preserving the air of solidity and safety that has always been one of its greatest attributes, with its towing capabilities remaining at up to 2,500kgs.

The new front end has an even stronger but more modern appearance, with a simple moulding and greater body-coloured areas - including the new bumpers, which help to emphasise the high-tech detailing of the latest lamp units. Careful attention to surface detailing has reduced aerodynamic drag. All models now have projection headlights and LED daytime running lamps.

The tailgate has been completely redesigned to give New Kia Sorento a more high-tech appearance and visually stretch the width, while the new body-coloured bumpers include a step which adds to the robust image. Redesigned rear lights - LED on 'KX-3' - add a touch of extra sportiness to Kia's large Sports Utility Vehicle.

New Sorento's look of solidity and strength is more than matched by the safety it delivers. The safety specification is uniform across the range. Particular attention was paid to the B-pillar areas, where a roll-over hoop is incorporated and ultra-high-strength steel made by the hot-stamping method is used in the side sills and the floor and dash cross members plus the fuel-tank surround. Additional side impact protection is provided by the absorbent interior door trim panels.

Every Sorento has anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to allow drivers to steer and brake simultaneously in emergencies and to ensure the stopping effort is directed to the wheels with most grip. A flashing LED Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) is also fitted to warn following motorists if the driver has to brake rapidly or severely.

New Sorento also has Electronic Stability Control (ESC) featuring Downhill Brake Control (DBC). Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) connects to the ESC and steering system to automatically correct any tendency to under steer or over steer by braking individual wheels, reducing engine torque or both. DBC maintains a steady speed of 5mph on steep descents. There is also Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) to prevent wheel-spin or roll-back when setting off on steep or slippery upslopes.

Six airbags (twin front, side and side curtains) are standard, as are active front headrests that prevent or minimise whiplash injuries should the Sorento be hit from behind. There are also front seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters.

New Kia Sorento, like every other Kia, benefits from a seven-year or 100,000-mile warranty.

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Jeep Compass, 2014

 

•  Jeep Compass, 2014

With unmatched Jeep® capability in all weather conditions, fuel economy of up to 30 miles per gallon (mpg), and a refined design, the new 2014 Jeep Compass continues to set the standard in the compact-SUV segment.

The 2014 Jeep Compass delivers a new six-speed PowerTech automatic transmission, refreshed exterior and interior design, unsurpassed 4x4 off-road capability in the compact-SUV segment, fuel economy of up to 30 mpg highway, and is a remarkable value for customers.

Delivering the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car, the 2014 Jeep Compass also boasts more than 30 safety and security features, including standard front-seat-mounted side air bags, side-curtain air bags for all rows, electronic stability program (ESC), electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), four-wheel anti-lock brakes, LATCH child seat anchors and available ParkView rear backup camera.

The Jeep Compass offers an array of clever features consumers will appreciate whether commuting to work, driving in challenging weather conditions, or exploring new trails or out-of-the-way places. Uconnect media center with iPod interface, SiriusXM Radio, navigation with SiriusXM Travel Link, power sunroof, a premium audio system with nine Boston Acoustic speakers, illuminated cup holders, liftgate speakers and fold-flat rear seats are some of the available features that make the Compass the perfect compact SUV, enabling consumers to enjoy any adventure.

The 2014 Jeep Compass is packed with standard features that provide value and convenience for drivers and passengers. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power/heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry, fog lamps, cruise control, illuminated cup holders, a removable/rechargeable light, outside temperature display, electronic stability control, front driver and passenger active head restraints, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist, front-seat-mounted side air bags, anti-lock disc brakes, 60/40 fold-flat rear seat and sunscreen glass.

The Jeep Compass continues to offer an All-weather Capability Group option which includes Goodyear 17-inch all-terrain tires, all-season floor mats, daytime running headlamps, engine block heater and tow hooks, making the Compass the most capable compact SUV off-road and in all weather conditions.

6F24 six-speed Power Tech automatic transmission
Available for the first time in most 2014 Jeep Compass models is the world-class 6F24 six-speed automatic transmission. Independently developed by PowerTech and refined for application to the 2014 Jeep Compass, the six-speed automatic is fully electronic, and designed for fuel efficiency and improved performance.

Compact and lightweight, the 6F24 eliminated many potential extra engineering efforts from a packaging standpoint with the chassis layout. Overall length of the transmission is 378.5 mm.

The six-speed automatic features a closely aligned 5.46 gear spread that provides nearly imperceptible shifting from launch through highway speeds. With a 4.21 first gear and standard Auto Stick for manual-like shifting, acceleration characteristics deliver fun-to-drive excitement.

With a 0.77 sixth gear, engine rpm is significantly reduced at highway speeds for optimal fuel efficiency. The stepped shift schedule across all six gears is designed for optimal fuel economy in city driving as well. Customers will notice extremely quiet operation throughout the gear ranges with the use of noise-resistant gears that effectively reduce noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

The final drive ratio when mated to the 2.0-liter I-4 engine is 3.648. When mated to the 2.4-liter I-4 engine both the 4x2 and 4x4 versions will have a final drive ratio of 3.367.

The new six-speed transmission also helps reduce maintenance costs and the cost of ownership with its fill-for-life design. There is no transmission dipstick and transmission filter or fluid changes are not required under normal driving conditions. Low-viscosity fluid is used to improve fuel economy by enabling quicker operating temperatures on the transmission to reduce drag on internal components.

Design
The exterior of the 2014 Jeep Compass has been refined with specific updates that move the design forward. At the front of the Compass Latitude and Limited models the grille has been enhanced with a plated upper grille trim and mold-in-color Billet Silver grille texture. The halogen headlamps now have a black inner bezel on the Sport and Latitude models, and the Limited models sport projector halogen headlamps with a black inner bezel and chrome fog lamp bezels. The Compass also features painted mirror caps, tail lamps with a new "smoked" inner bezel, a plated chrome insert on the tailgate trim applique, new available 18-inch aluminum wheels on Limited models, and a new plated chrome insert with recessed "Jeep" badge on the tailgate trim applique for models equipped with the available rear backup camera.

For 2014, the Jeep Compass interior has been tastefully upgraded with accents and trim that customers will appreciate. Upgraded features include a new interior trim option in the Compass Limited model: Saddle Brown perforated leather seating with accent stitching. The Latitude model includes a new sport mesh and vinyl seat with light gray accent stitching, and the Light Pebble Beige trim features a new Tangerine accent stitch on the seats. In addition, the armrests and center console lid are now wrapped in vinyl and the instrument cluster overlay graphics have been updated. New satin chrome finish adorns the center bezel, shifter bezel and pull cups and a new bin applique with badge round out the interior design upgrades.

Segment-leading capability
The 2014 Jeep Compass offers customers unsurpassed Jeep 4x4 off-road capability with Jeep Freedom Drive II.

Jeep Compass is available in three drivetrain configurations. In addition to the standard front-wheel-drive system, Jeep Compass also is available with Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package.

Jeep Freedom Drive I 4x4 is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is recommended for daily use, including slick conditions that come with rain and light snow. Freedom Drive I also features a lockable center coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Compass in four-wheel-drive lock mode to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

The Jeep Freedom Drive II 4x4 Off-road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that delivers Jeep Trail Rated capability in Compass form. The Freedom Drive II Off-road Package includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with low range (CVT2L) that engages when the off-road mode is activated, 17-inch all-terrain tires and aluminum wheels, a one-inch raised ride height, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and manual seat height adjuster. The available Freedom Drive II Off-road Package is recommended for off-road situations that include steep grades, occasional wheel lift and rock or log climbing.

The 2014 Jeep Compass' powertrain options are designed to deliver world-class performance in all weather conditions, fuel economy and refinement, all at an affordable, value-packed price.

The 2014 Jeep Compass features a standard 2.0-liter World Gas Engine for the Sport and Latitude models that provides 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft. (191 N•m) of torque coupled with the standard five-speed manual transmission or the available new 6F24 six-speed automatic transmission, and delivers fuel economy of up to 30 mpg on the highway when mated to the five-speed manual transmission.

The proven 2.4-liter I-4 World Engine produces 172 horsepower (129 kW) and 165 lb.-ft. (224 N•m) and is available on all models and standard on the Limited. This 2.4-liter World Engine has dual variable-valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, which helps optimize the torque curve at all speeds and produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology typically not available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Jeep Compass' price class. The Jeep Compass' 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transaxle in front-wheel drive configuration delivers 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Jeep Compass also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle on the Compass Sport model, a new six-speed automatic transmission that is available on the Compass Sport model and standard on the Latitude and Limited models and the continuously-variable transmission II (CVT2L) transmission on vehicles with Freedom Drive II. The Compass' CVT2L is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for a pleasing engine response and precise ratio control.

The 2014 Jeep Compass also provides up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity.

Jeep Compass model lineup
The 2014 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations: Sport, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time active 4x4 system, or the Freedom Drive II Off-road full-time active 4x4 system with low-range capability.

2014 Jeep Compass Sport model
The 2014 Jeep Compass Sport model is powered by the 2.0-liter I-4 World Gas Engine which produces 158 horsepower and 141 lb.-ft. of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Standard features include: new acoustic laminated front windshield glass, front-wheel drive, front-seat-mounted side air bags, advanced multistage front driver and passenger air bags, all-row side curtain air bags, front driver and passenger active head restraints, electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, brake assist, Hill-start Assist, anti-lock front disc and rear drum brakes, air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power-heated fold-away exterior mirrors, body-color exterior door handles and liftgate brow, illuminated keyless entry, Sentry Key engine immobilizer theft-deterrent system, illuminated cup holders, removable/rechargeable flashlight, floor mats, outside temperature display, tilt steering column, speed control, rear 60/40 split folding seat, fold-flat rear seat, cruise control, projector fog lamps, deep tint glass, rear window wiper/washer, 16-inch steel wheels and bright roof side rails.

Jeep Compass Latitude model
In addition to the features that are standard on the Sport model, the 2014 Jeep Compass Latitude standard features include: 6F24 PowerTech six-speed automatic transmission, heated cloth front seats, driver seat height adjuster, fold-flat front passenger seat, 60/40 rear seat recline, 115-volt power inverter and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and speed controls.

Jeep Compass Limited Model
The 2014 Compass Limited model offers the standard features of the Compass Latitude model as well as: 2.4-liter I-4 dual overhead cam engine that produces 172 horsepower and 164 lb.-ft. of torque mated to the new 6F24 six-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, leather-trimmed front and rear seats, power six-way driver seat with manual lumbar adjust, leather-wrapped parking brake handle, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), AM/FM/six-disc CD/DVD/MP3/HDD radio, SiriusXM Radio, auto-dimming rearview mirror, bi-function projector halogen headlamps, 18-inch aluminum wheels with Firestone tires, automatic temperature control, universal garage door opener, bright exhaust tip and bright accent on rear fascia.

The 2014 Jeep Compass is available in the following exterior colors: Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Black Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat, Maximum Steel Metallic Clear Coat, Mineral Gray Metallic Clear Coat, Rugged Brown Pearl Coat, True Blue Pearl Coat and Winter Chill Pearl Coat.

Available options include Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II four-wheel drive systems, 2.4-liter I-4 World Gas Engine producing 172 horsepower (129 kW) and 165 lb.-ft. (224 N•m) of torque, ParkView rear backup camera, 6F24 six-speed automatic transmission, power sunroof, Security and Cargo Convenience Group, Sun and Sound Group, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, Uconnect 230 or Uconnect 430 CDDVD/MP3 HDD radio, Premium Sound Group with nine-speaker audio system with liftgate speakers, navigation with SiriusXM Travel Link and the Trailer-tow Prep Group.

Built in America at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill., the 2014 Jeep Compass models will begin arriving in dealer showrooms in the second quarter of 2013.

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Jaguar F-Type, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

• Jaguar F-Type, 2014

The new Jaguar F-Type represents a return to the company's heart: a two-seat, convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver involvement. The F-Type is a continuation of a sporting bloodline that stretches back more than 75 years and encompasses some of the most beautiful, thrilling and desirable sports cars ever built. Joining the XK convertible and coupe models, the new F-Type provides Jaguar with a broader line of sports and GT models.

The 2014 Jaguar F-Type combines low vehicle weight (starting at 3,521 pounds), high power (340hp, 380hp and 495hp versions) and superb aerodynamics to achieve a pure sports car experience, yet with Jaguar elegance and luxury.

A true two-seat sports car, the all-new Jaguar F-Type is equipped with a modern, lightweight soft top that, when lowered, serves as its own tonneau cover. This not only provides a weight savings, but also improves packaging and contributes to the car's low center of gravity for greater agility. The top can be fully raised or lowered in just 12 seconds at speeds of up to 30 mph. Its multi-layer construction includes a Thinsulate® lining for optimal thermal and sound-insulating properties.

EXTERIOR DESIGN
Jaguar cars have always defined sinuous, muscular elegance, and the F-Type continues - and advances - this tradition with new, assertive design language. Two "heartlines" define, in just two bold strokes, both the profile and top-down view of the Jaguar F-Type. The main "heartline" theme begins in the blade dissecting the shark-like gills on either side of the grille. This first heartline runs up and forms the sharp top crease of the fender line, which provides sight lines that aid the driver in cornering maneuvers. It leads the eye along the top of the front fender, which is emphasized by the headlamp design, and then into the door and toward the rear of the car where it gracefully disappears.

The sweeping line is mirrored by the feature line that runs back from the side vent. Along with "lightcatcher" surface detailing above the sill, the line instills a sense of speed to the car. The lightcatcher surface detailing also allows the door surface to wrap around the side of the car, creating a fuselage effect.

The second "heartline" swells out to form the muscular rear haunch before sweeping dramatically around the rear of the car. The clean, sleek lines of the tail are made possible in part by the inclusion of an active rear spoiler that deploys at speed to reduce aerodynamic lift. The spoiler rises when the F-Type reaches 60 mph and then lowers to fit flush when the speed drops below 40 mph. Further discreet aerodynamic aids include a front splitter and a sculpted rear valance.

The headlights run vertically rather than horizontally, which leads the eye naturally up and along the fender crease. Technology has facilitated the design language of the Jaguar F-Type; the compact xenon unit requires just one projector, while the J-Blade LED running lights further emphasize the design of the heartline running through the lamp.

The grille leans slightly forward to create a suggestion of motion when the car is stationary. The lower edge of the clamshell hood forms the top of the side vent. The mesh in the grille and side vents is a hexagonal design that gives greater form and depth.

The hidden, automatically deploying door handles support the design purity. The handles remain flush with the door panel until activated by either unlocking the car with the key fob or touching a touch-sensitive area of the handle. Their automatic deployment provides a mechanical "handshake," inviting the driver and passenger to enter. Once the car is moving, the handles retract to leave an uninterrupted aerodynamic surface.

Full LED rear lamps create a new Jaguar sports car signature by reinterpreting classic cues from the past. By wrapping the lights around to the trailing edge of the rear wheel arch, the car's powerful rear-wheel drive stance is emphasized. Reflecting the way the front grille leans forward, the tail tucks inward, reinforcing the impression that the car is poised to leap forward.

Differing exhaust and tailpipe designs distinguish the V6 and V8 variants of the F-Type. The V6 models feature twin center outlets in a nod to the classic Jaguar E-Type introduced in 1961. The boldest exhaust finishers ever fitted to a Jaguar, these are stamped from a single piece of stainless steel, creating an unbroken gleaming surface. The V8 S model exclusively features four outboard-mounted exhaust outlets, with twin outlets on each side.

Further detail differentiation between the three variants is found in the exterior trim. The Jaguar F-Type V6 model is marked by satin black trim elements in the grilles, vents, front splitter and rear valance, while the two 'S' models receive gloss-black finishes in these areas. The V6 model features standard 18-inch alloy wheels, with 19-inch and 20-inch wheels standard for the S and V8 S, respectively, and available as options for the V6. The V8 S also receives additional aerodynamic features, including front vanes beneath the shark gills and flat side sill extensions to manage airflow.

ALUMINUM STRUCTURE
Jaguar, which has innovated the use of aluminum body structures, built the new Jaguar F-Type around its most advanced rigid and lightweight aluminum architecture to date. Jaguar engineers applied more than a decade's worth of aluminum construction experience to achieve the twin goals for the F-Type of low mass and an extremely rigid body.

Key to this was the further development of alloy technology. AC300, a 6000-series aluminum alloy, was specifically selected for parts of the Jaguar F-Type to meet these goals. The F-Type structure is riveted and bonded, and this manufacturing process emits up to 80-percent less CO2 compared to that from welding a comparable steel structure.

In addition to the structural alloy, Jaguar further developed an AC600 aluminum panel alloy in order to deliver the desired design language. This AC600 alloy offers robustness and quality of finish but with a great degree of formability. The effects can be seen in the clarity and tightness of radii and feature lines. It was the radius tightness of just 8mm that allowed the engineers to reproduce the car's "heartlines" exactly as the designers had intended.

Aluminum construction, including all-aluminum double wishbone front and rear suspensions, helps endow the F-Type with an ideal balance, which enhances the agility demanded of a pure sports car. The new structural alloys used in the F-Type construction results in high rigidity. Using detailed Computer Aided Engineering programs, Jaguar achieved lateral stiffness gains of up to 30 percent in key areas, such as the front suspension mounting points, compared to other Jaguar models. This rigidity provides a precision foundation for a finely tuned suspension system to deliver a superb driver connectivity and fidelity of response.

Significantly, the beautiful clamshell hood, an exotic signature feature of the Jaguar F-Type and where the front heartline begins, is a one-piece stamping, made using a 1,000-ton press. Jaguar developed other new manufacturing techniques in order to deliver both the design and structural integrity engineered into the F-Type. A new process, known as "warm forming", is used to produce the inner door stamping. The ordinary stamping process with cold metal could not achieve the desired shape. Jaguar engineers developed a method in which the metal is heated to 500°F (260°C) before pressing. As a result, the desired shape and structure are achieved from one large pressing rather than numerous smaller ones, reducing complexity and weight.

The F-Type employs more composite materials than in any previous Jaguar, with structures under the sill and the trunk lid constructed from high-strength polymers. Extensive analysis throughout the car's structure, powertrain, body and convertible roof contributed to the overall vehicle weight of about 3,521 pounds (1,597 kg). Concentrating as much of the mass as possible within the wheelbase by minimizing the front and rear overhangs also contributes to the car's agility and stability.

Aluminum forms a great part of the commitment Jaguar has made to sustainability. More than half the content of the car comes from recycled or reclaimed metal. In addition, Jaguar is rolling out its closed-loop recycling system to its suppliers, ensuring all waste metal from the manufacturing process is reused.

PERFORMANCE
The F-Type showcases the new supercharged Jaguar engines, a 3-liter supercharged V6 in 340hp and 380hp states of tune and the 5-liter supercharged V8 in the Jaguar F-Type V8 S with 495hp and 460 ft-lbs of torque. All are equipped with the new Intelligent Stop/Start system to enhance fuel economy under certain driving conditions.

The 340hp version of the supercharged V6, which debuted in the 2013 XJ and XF sedans, produces 332 ft-lbs of torque at 3,500-5,500 rpm. The 380hp version, exclusive to the F-Type, produces 339 ft-lbs of torque at 3,500-5,500 rpm. The V8 produces an even broader torque curve, with 460 ft-lbs produced over the 2,500-5,500 rpm range.

The 340hp V6 model can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in 5.1 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.3 seconds). The 380hp S model lowers that to 4.8 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds), and the V8 S can hit 60 mph from rest in just 4.2 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.9 seconds). Electronically limited maximum track speeds are 161 mph (260 km/h), 171 mph (275 km/h) and 186 mph (300 km/h), respectively, for the V6, V6 S and V8 S models.

In addition to rapid zero-to-60 acceleration, the new Jaguar supercharged engines give the F-Type outstanding merging and passing performance. The 340hp V6 model will go from 50 to 75 mph in just 3.3 seconds; the 380hp S version in 3.1 and the V8 S model in 2.5 seconds.

Based on the Jaguar 5-liter V8 engine, the 3-liter V6 shares its all-alloy construction. The lightweight die-cast aluminum block is stiffened with cross-bolted main bearing caps, increasing rigidity and refinement. A system of counter-rotating front and rear balancer weights help give the new supercharged V6 the smoothness and refinement characteristics of the V8 on which it is based.

The supercharged V6 and V8 engines combine high compression, direct fuel injection, dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT) and a supercharger to deliver their high levels of performance and efficiency. A twin vortex supercharger is mounted in the engine's "V", and a water-cooled intercooler reduces the temperature of the intake air to optimize power and efficiency. The supercharged V6 uses a higher compression ratio than the V8, 10.5:1 vs. 9.5:1.

In both the V6 and V8, the aluminum cylinder heads package an innovative valve control system. The dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT) system is activated by the positive and negative torques generated by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves, allowing exceptionally quick actuation rates of more than 150 degrees per second throughout the rev range.

Spray-guided direct injection delivers precisely measured quantities of fuel directly into the center of the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 150bar (2175 psi) , creating a more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion. This is aided by spark plugs that are precisely indexed both in relation to the injector and within the combustion chamber.

Intelligent Stop/Start
The new Intelligent Stop/Start system offers fuel economy benefits under certain urban driving conditions. Stop/Start uses a twin solenoid starter, enabling the system to restart the engine quickly as the driver's foot to move from the brake pedal to the accelerator. There is also a strategy for engine stop-start "change of mind" scenarios. This will bring the engine back up to speed even during its run-down phase if, for instance, the car is coming to a halt at an intersection when the driver sees an opportunity to join the traffic flow. As the engine is shutting down, but before it has completely stopped, it can rapidly restart by injecting fuel into the cylinders.

Active Exhaust
Standard for the V6 S and V8 S models and optional for the V6, an Active Exhaust system enhances the exhaust note. Electronically controlled bypass valves in the rear section of the exhaust open under hard acceleration, effectively providing a free-flowing straight-through arrangement. At cruising speeds, the valves will close, retaining a powerful exhaust note with comfortable sound levels.

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