Toyota RAV4 EU-Version, 2013

 

 

 

•  Toyota RAV4 EU-Version, 2013

Toyota is proud to claim to have created the compact SUV market with the launch of its first Recreational Active Vehicle with 4 Wheel-Drive (RAV4) in 1994.

Launched as a compact (3.69 m), 3-door model, the first "Urban 4WD" was quite different to a traditional 4x4. It featured a relatively small, 2.0 litre engine mounted transversally within a monocoque bodyshell, and all-round independent suspension. The compact SUV market was born. Today, there are some 20 different models in the segment.

Available in over 150 countries, three generations of Toyota RAV4 have sold more than 4.5 million units since 1994, of which European markets have accounted for over 1.2 million sales.

The fundamental design features accounting for this success remain equally relevant for this fourth generation model. As for the last 18 years with previous model generations, the new RAV4 has been developed to fully respond to the evolving customer requirements of the core C-SUV market: active lifestyle families with a growing demand for space and versatility.

The new Toyota RAV4 reflects this stronger emphasis on family use building on its segment creating core values. The new RAV4 offers customers distinctive, sophisticated styling, refined, premium-quality interior design, a new Integrated Dynamic Drive System and an engaging drive with fuel efficient powertrains.

DESIGN
Longer (+205 mm), wider (+30 mm) but lower (-25 mm) than its predecessor, the fourth generation of Toyota's compact, versatile SUV showcases an all new silhouette that emphasizes its versatility, roominess and improved dynamic capabilities.

The all-new exterior combines the sophisticated, stylish signature elements of the new Toyota frontal design language with clean, frill-free aesthetics and the muscular image of durability expected from a vehicle with its class-leading four-wheel drive credentials.

The new face of Toyota combines the company's Under Priority grille design with Keen Look headlamp and LED Daytime Running Light (DRL) detailing to give the new SUV a powerful, more dynamic and agile-looking road presence.

The Under Priority design features a large, trapezoidal lower opening within the front bumper, and a smaller upper grille running full width between the new headlamps.

The black resin finish flows from the bottom corners of the lower bumper opening in the form of a tough, durable skirt around the base of the entire vehicle, including the wheel arches, providing off-road protection to the bodyshell and further emphasising the new SUV's muscular posture.

In profile, the new RAV4 inherits the combination of space-efficient packaging, rising belt-line and distinctive silhouette that has hallmarked successive generations of Toyota's compact SUV.

Above a more pronounced belt-line, blacked out B and C pillars emphasise the lengthened glasshouse and an increase in the vehicle's interior roominess. Below, the contrast of convex body surfacing and sharply concave treatment to the pronounced wheel arches and door cills brings added dynamism and strength to the new Toyota RAV4 silhouette.

To the rear, the cabin tapers strongly inwards, contrasting with the width of the lower body and creating muscular shoulders over the rear wheel arches to emphasis the vehicle's, stable, planted stance.

The increased strength of the belt-line and wheel arch shoulder at the rear of the car is further emphasised by a new rear combination lamp design which is generated by the proportions of the rear shoulder and flows around the corner of the vehicle to underscore the tailgate glazing.

Topped with an integral roof spoiler, the new tailgate itself is now top-hinged, and the spare wheel has been removed to complete the new RAV4's cleaner, more aerodynamically efficient design.

The new RAV4 will be available in a choice of nine body colours, including 3 new to the model range: Greyish Blue M.M., Moss Green and Black M.M.

Innovative, Higher Quality Interior Design
Combining a spacious, comfortable cabin with a cockpit-like driver's environment, the all-new interior design build's on the RAV4's inherent practicality with greater roominess, higher quality finishes and a more focused, engaging SUV driving experience.

Horizontal-lined design is used on the instrument panel in order to emphasize strength and wide-front design.

The dynamic, bold architecture of the new dashboard features powerful, upper and lower horizontal beams interrupted by a curved, metal-finish spar. Rooted in the transmission tunnel, the spar frames the driver's new instrument binnacle, steering wheel and footwell to reinforce the new Toyota RAV4 interior's more driver-focused credentials.

The clean, sophisticated elegance of the new design is further strengthened by the use of high quality materials, soft padding in many areas of occupant contact, crisp trim finishes and new colours throughout. Extended use of leather on the instrument panel contributes to emphasise the high quality feeling of the cabin.

All instrument and switchgear back-lighting is now a Clear Blue colour; a crisp, cool after-dark illumination which brings sophistication and a powerful visual consistency to the new interior.

Focused, Ergonomic Driving Position
With cockpit-like driver's environment, the driving position of the new RAV4 has been designed for excellent ergonomics, greater comfort, better forward visibility and a more engaging driving experience.

The driver's seat hip point has been lowered by 5 mm, the seat height adjustment range increased by 15 mm and the steering wheel angle lowered by 2.3 degrees.

At the same time, the driver's forward visibility has been improved. The A pillars have been repositioned to a more outward location, increasing the driver's forward field of vision by 3 degrees, and the cross-sectional width of the pillars themselves has been reduced by 8%.

Greater Space and Versatility
Though retaining the compact exterior dimensions essential to manoeuvrability, the new RAV4's overall length of 4.57 m and its wheel base length of 2660 mm equip it with significant additional interior space, bringing passenger roominess and loadspace up to a par with larger, D segment vehicles.

With a front to rear seat couple distance, now a best-in-class 970 mm, and a new thinner front seatback design, space at rear seats has been increased.

The 60:40 split folding rear seats have been made more comfortable, benefitting from an increase in cushion surface angle of 2 degrees and higher side bolsters for improved support.

Thanks to Toyota's unique, easy flat seating system, the RAV4 retains all the practical, flexible versatility its customers have come to expect from the compact SUV.

The rear seats may be split 60:40 for maximum flexibility and each section can be reclined independently.

The length of the loadspace has been increased, raising luggage capacity to 547 litres. Undertray storage has also increased by 49 litres from 51 to 100 litres.

The side-hung tailgate has been replaced by a top-hinged version, which may be equipped with power operation. At 645 mm, the new tailgate opening boasts the lowest loadspace lip height in its class, as well as a wide aperture of 1335 mm.

POWERTRAINS
Featuring two new powerplants -a 2.0 litre diesel for the Western European market and a 2.5 litre petrol unit for the Russian market- and with a 2.2 litre diesel engine now available in Russia for the first time, the new Toyota RAV4's comprehensive engine range offers an unmatched balance between outstanding, front- and four-wheel drive performance and class-leading CO2 emissions in all petrol and diesel variants.

Western European Engine Line-up
The Western European powertrain line up now comprises a 151 DIN hp 2.0 litre petrol engine, a new 124 DIN hp 2.0 litre diesel, and a powerful 150 DIN hp 2.2 litre D-4D diesel engine.

Every engine in this new line-up benefits from reductions in CO2 emissions, averaging some 12% across the powerplant range.

Of particular note, the 2.0 litre diesel, front-wheel drive derivative new to the RAV4 range is equipped with Toyota's Stop & Start technology, reducing CO2 emission to only 127 g/km.

Eastern European Engine Line-up
The Eastern European powertrain line up comprises a 145 DIN hp 2.0 litre petrol engine, a new, 180 DIN hp 2.5 litre petrol engine, and a newly available, 150 DIN hp 2.2 litre D-4D diesel engine.

DRIVING PERFORMANCE
Successive generations of RAV4 have established a reputation for their ride comfort, ease of driving, manoeuvrability and reassuring capabilities on even the most challenging of road surfaces.

In conjunction with a new, more comfortable and focused driving position, the new Toyota RAV4 builds on these key SUV attributes with retuned front and rear suspension systems, revised Electric Power Steering, and a New Integrated Dynamic Drive System with all-new Sport mode function.

In combination, these developments award the new RAV4 greater stability and agility on both wet and dry roads, offering customers a confidence-inspiring, more intuitive and engaging driving experience.

The new RAV4 is also available with both Down-hill Assist and Hill Start Assist Control. Fitted as standard to all vehicles equipped with automatic transmission and particularly useful during icy or snowy descents, Down-hill Assist Control automatically regulates gear selection, engine speed and the individual wheel braking capabilities of the ABS system to help the driver maintain skid-free control of the vehicle on slippery descents.

Integrated Dynamic Drive System
The Integrated Dynamic Drive System is a sophisticated, high-speed interactive management system which coordinates control of the Toyota RAV4's new Dynamic Torque Control 4WD, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Electric Power Steering (EPS) systems to enhance the compact SUV's performance, handling and safety.

The new Dynamic Torque Control 4WD system continuously monitors and controls the torque transfer between the front and rear wheels via an electromagnetically controlled coupling positioned in front of the rear differential.

Front to rear torque distribution can vary from 100:0 to 50:50, with front-wheel drive (100:0) automatically engaged under normal driving conditions to improve fuel consumption.

The Dynamic Torque Control 4WD system uses information sent from various sensors (speed, steering angle, throttle angle and yaw rate) to automatically govern the transmission of torque to the rear wheels, as required.

In Normal mode -when neither Sport mode nor Lock mode are activated- torque transfer to the rear wheels will take place not only when the slip is detected (as in thethird generation RAV4), but also when the system detects understeer during cornering on-road. As a result, the overall agility and driving performance of the new RAV4 is enhanced during both on- and off-road driving.

When all new Sport mode (standard on AWD models) is selected, torque transfer to the rear wheels will start from the moment the steering wheel is turned. The new Dynamic Torque Control AWD System, with the feedback from driver steering input, will adjust automatically a 90:10 front/rear torque distribution to reduce the load on the front tyres.

If later, an actual understeer develops, torque transfer to the rear wheels is automatically increased by up to 50%, further reducing front tyre loading to provide improved lateral grip.

As well as activating the 'Dynamic' behaviour of the system's front to rear torque transfer, the new Sport mode also modifies the Toyota RAV4's power steering, throttle and transmissions; decreasing power steering assistance, sharpening throttle response and offering higher revs', automatic and CVT gearbox management, for a more dynamic, sporting driving experience.

For off-road driving, the system incorporates a 4WD Lock button. This allows drivers to lock torque distribution in a fixed, 50/50 ratio at speeds up to 40 km/h.

SAFETY AND TECHNOLOGY
The new Toyota RAV4 builds on the very highest standards of occupant safety and pedestrian impact protection evolved over three generations of the compact Toyota SUV, with even higher levels of active and passive safety.

With a new, high rigidity, multi-path impact load body designed to provide optimum occupant and pedestrian impact protection, the new RAV4 has been engineered to achieve a 5-Star rating in the gruelling, 2013 Euro NCAP crash test programme.

The new Toyota SUV is equipped with a new anti-whiplash seat design, and 7 airbags are fitted as standard, including a driver's knee airbag and twin-chamber front seat side airbags.

The new Toyota RAV4 may also be equipped with three new technologies -an Automatic High Beam system, a Lane Departure Alert system and a Blind Spot Monitor system- further raising standards of safety and driver convenience.

Automatic High Beam system
The Automatic High Beam system employs a camera to monitor the road ahead and automatically switches the headlamps from high to low beam when it detects either a preceding or oncoming vehicle.

Lane Departure Alert system
The Lane Departure Alert system employs a lane recognition camera sensor mounted at the head of the windscreen to determine if the vehicle is unintentionally leaving its lane. The system then alerts the driver via an audible warning buzzer and a flashing line icon in the multi-information display.

Blind Spot Monitor system
The Blind Spot Warning system notifies drivers of a vehicle travelling in an adjacent lane in their blind spot by illuminating the relevant indicator mounted in the outer door mirror surface. The system uses radar sensors mounted on both sides of the rear of the new RAV4, which monitor the blind area of the driver. If the turn signal lamp switch is in operation, the indicator will flash at fixed intervals to alert the driver.

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Subaru Forester, 2014

 

 

 

 

•  Subaru Forester, 2014

The fourth generation Subaru Forester was developed with the goal to maximize its value as a true SUV. The all-new Forester enhances basic vehicle performance such as driving, safety and environmental friendliness and features Subaru's unique Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system at its core. In addition to that, the Forester's user-friendly utilities and fun-to-drive characteristic with stress-free driving were further improved.

Since its launch in 1997, the Forester has been acclaimed world-wide for its driveability and riding comfort with rugged rough-road capability and utility with superior maneuverability.

Subaru's brand statement "Confidence in Motion" is the foundation of the brand's automobile development. Subaru is committed to engineering excellence and "Enjoyment and Peace of Mind" and to create products in harmony with customer lifestyles and values. The new Forester is also a product embodying Subaru's brand direction.

Subaru defines the value of a true SUV as : providing user-friendly versatile utilities ; fun-to-drive character and ride comfort for long distances, even under harsh conditions; and stress-free driving. To realize this, both driving performance and ride quality were highly improved by adopting Subaru's latest technologies together with the enhanced body rigidity.

Excellent fuel efficiency and safety performance realize a "Peace of Mind" driving experience. Interior comfort and functionality have been further refined to provide a vehicle that is "fun-to-use" as an SUV. While maintaining a high-level of basic vehicle performance, a new AWD control system delivers not only "fun to drive" characteristics but comfortable and confident driving in all road conditions.

The Exterior Design
The all-new Forester was designed with SUV-like powerful eye-catching looks while considering better aerodynamics and functionality.

By extending the bottom end of the A-pillar 200 mm forward than the previous model, an elegant form has been achieved.

Designs of the front section, door panels and a rear gate express massive and powerful images. The wheel arch and wheel designs project a greater road presence and off-road capability.

Interior Design
The interior design suggests spaciousness as well as boldness and provides a powerful look as a SUV, with a quality feel due to its sophisticated shape and soft touch materials.

The instrument panel is styled to add to the spacious atmosphere.
Soft touch materials enhance the feeling of quality in the cabin.

Packaging / Utility
The cabin design was carefully considered for greater comfort and utility for all passengers.

Both roominess and a sense of openness have been achieved by redesigning the cabin , each pillar's location and floor shape in the rear section. Seating positions were also totally reviewed to provide better visibility to all passengers, compared to the previous model.

By enlarging the cargo space and rear gate opening, better utility of the cargo space has been achieved.

A new "clean side sill" design protects passengers from dirt, when getting in and out of a car by keeping the sill clean.

Wider door openings and lower side sills vastly improve ingress and egress of passengers.

A multifunction display monitor shows details of the vehicle's driving conditions to support fuel-efficient and safe driving.

Sturdy and functional roof rails are optional.
Hill start assist function has also been adopted. When the vehicle stops on any hill, braking will be kept to maintain vehicle's position temporarily as the driver takes off the brake. Due to this function, driver can easily start the vehicle on a slope.

A powerlift tailgate allows automatic opening and closing. The opening height of the tailgate can be adjusted so that the tailgate does not hit a garage ceiling, for example. Obstacles can also be detected during opening and closing.

Driveability
The layout of Subaru Symmetrical AWD system with low center of gravity and superior weight balance has embodied compliant ride quality in various road conditions.

By combining the new generation Boxer engine with Lineartronic, both high engine output and good fuel efficiency have been achieved.

Further increased rigidity of body and chassis provides comfortable driving with "Peace of Mind" for every driver.

2.0-liter, DOHC, Horizontally-Opposed, 4-cylinder, petrol engine

A new generation Boxer engine achieves both fast engine response and high fuel efficiency.

Improved low to mid speed torque was adopted with a focus on manageability in practical use.

2.0-liter, DOHC, Horizontally-Opposed, Direct Injection Turbocharged, 4-cylinder, petrol engine "DIT"

Subaru's own direct injection turbo technology was adopted for the new generation Boxer engine. By injecting fuel directly into cylinders, combustion efficiency was improved, resulting in both high engine output and fuel efficiency.

By employing the newly developed twin scroll type turbo charger with superior response at low engine speed, high performance with high engine output and torque was achieved at 206kW (280PS) and 350Nm @ 2000rpm. It also has good environmental friendliness.

Transmission - Lineartronic (CVT)
Further advancing the benefits of Chain-driven CVT such as lightness, compactness, superior fuel efficiency and wide ratio coverage, Subaru has adopted a CVT with improved driveability and environmental friendliness by optimizing the parts and layouts.

The new Lineartronic was applied for higher torque of the newly developed 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo engine. Some parts such as the torque converter and chains were modified to endure high performance of the direct injection turbo engine.

Body & chassis
In pursuit of a linear response and secure driveability while absorbing any road surface irregularities, the rigidity of key points in chassis & body have been improved. Agile handling, comfortable driving and noise reduction have been achieved while body roll was minimized.

The chassis was tuned exclusively for the turbo-charged model. Suspension rigidity was reinforced for better stability during high speed driving. Vehicle sway was minimized due to damper tuning and enlarged stabilizer diameter, turbo models offer superior stability when changing lanes and cornering.

X-MODE
The new AWD control system "X-MODE" has been developed for the driving on uneven or slippery road condition. Engine, Transmission and VDC are controlled cooperatively.

The system simulates various road conditions. By pushing "X-MODE" button, any driver can use the system easily and make the vehicle stable.

The system also has the hill descent control mode which can maintain the same vehicle speed when driving down a steep hill.

SI-DRIVE
SI-DRIVE which is effective for both driving pleasure and fuel-efficient driving was adopted. It has "Intelligent mode" and "Sports mode". Driver can use either of them as the situation demands. The SI-DRIVE switch was equipped on the steering for easy operation.

The "SI-DRIVE" was finely tuned for the models with DIT engine. It has "Intelligent mode", "Sports mode" and "S# (Sports sharp) mode". In case of Sport# (S#) mode, the driver can shift between 8 steps. In addition to the smooth shift change of the CVT, the driver can enjoy sportier driving by selecting the mode with direct feeling like AT or MT vehicles.

Safety
Subaru's unique driving assist system "EyeSight (version II)" is available for both Turbo and Non-turbo models.

By using high tensile steel effectively for the body structure, the body has been reduced in weight while attaining high rigidity. Superior crash safety performance has also been achieved.

Environmental friendliness
Adoption of the new generation Boxer engine and Lineartronic; enhanced aerodynamic performance; and Auto Start Stop system improved fuel efficiency.

A multifunction display monitor shows the condition of fuel consumption to support fuel-efficient driving.

The fuel efficiency of the models equipped with the Lineartronic achieved the 2015 Japanese fuel standards.

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Seat Mii Vibora Negra, 2013

 

 

 

•  Seat Mii Vibora Negra, 2013

Within just one month of putting the SEAT Mii city car on sale in the UK, SEAT introduced the sensational Vibora Negra edition.

The Vibora Negra - which means black viper in Spanish - is the ultimate iteration of SEAT Mii. It showcases a complete range of personalisation accessories available for the car, and marks the beginning of a host of planned customisation packs.

The SEAT Mii packs plenty of visual punch as it is, but this new range of visual accessories takes it to a new level; the Vibora Negra pack transforms the Mii into one of the most striking, visually aggressive and sportiest city cars currently on sale, endowing it with the spirit of SEAT's most powerful FR and Cupra models.

The complete Vibora Negra pack is compatible with any Mii, from entry level S to range-topping Sport, and comprises:
    Black Vibora Negra twin stripes (bonnet, roof and tailgate)
    Black Vibora Negra side stripes
    Black 14- or 15-inch alloy wheels
    Black tailgate spoiler
    Black side skirts
    Black mirror caps
    Black gloss gear knob
    Black chequered dashboard decal

The above items can be ordered individually, although a 10% discount applies when the pack is ordered complete, saving around £160.

The total cost of the Vibora Negra pack, including VAT and fitting, is £1,628 with 14-inch wheels equipped, or £1,740 with 15-inch wheels. It can only be bought from franchised SEAT dealerships.

With the SEAT Mii having just gone on sale in the UK (18th June 2012), the quick availability of the Vibora Negra pack is a clear indication of SEAT's desire to make it the most desirable and distinctly sporty city car on the market.

The Vibora Negra pack, which is only available to UK buyers, comes hot on the heels of the dramatic Mii FR concept, shown at the 2012 Worthersee festival in Austria; the upgrades give buyers the tantalising opportunity to own a car with a marked visual similarity to that concept.

The SEAT Mii range begins at £7,845 RRP OTR for an entry-level S model, meaning a Vibora Negra can be bought for under £9,500.

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Renault Fluence, 2013

 

 

 

•  Renault Fluence, 2013

The new Renault Fluence makes its debut at the 2012 Istanbul Motor Show. The modern styling and on-board technologies of this three-volume saloon car, which is poised to continue the model's international career, have been designed to match the needs of its customers as closely as possible.

Modern, dynamic styling
New Renault Fluence features Renault's new styling identity. Its front end is the same as that of the brand's other new models, with a vertically-set logo at the centre of a broad black strip picked out by chrome beading which provides the car with a dynamic stance.

The LED daytime running lights and chrome/gloss black inserts also contribute to the newcomer's modern appeal.

The design of the interior is also more modern, including digital instrumentation for all versions.

The cabin is as roomy as ever and has been enhanced by the use of new upholsteries for segment-topping comfort.

A choice of petrol or diesel engines, with automatic transmission, ideal for motoring in built-up areas

The new 1.6 16V 115 engine drives through the new-generation X-Tronic CVT automatic transmission to combine a seamless, jar-free ride with sprightly driving pleasure, as well as a significant reduction in fuel consumption which is down by 1.3 litres/100km to 6.4 litres/100km, while CO2 emissions are down 15 percent to 149g/km.

Along with the previously available diesel dCi 110 EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) engine, New Renault Fluence can be specified with petrol or diesel power mated with advanced automatic transmission.

The diesel range has been extended to include the new dCi 130 engine (depending on market) which has already been widely acclaimed for its performance and the driving enjoyment it delivers. This 1.6-litre diesel engine is the most powerful in its class yet its fuel consumption has been reduced to just 4.6 litres/100km, equivalent to 119g of CO2/km.

New Renault Fluence has a raft of on-board, connected technologies and innovations

The new Renault Fluence comes with numerous driver-aid technologies - hand -free card with remote central locking, front and rear parking sensors, automatic parking brake, etc. - which have become essential equipment for city motorists.

From the basic equipment level up, all versions are 'connected' thanks to the availability of new Bluetooth® radios equipped with USB and jack sockets.

At the higher-end of the range, New Renault Fluence features a major innovation in the form of the Renault R-Link multimedia system which provide connected services and is ideally suited to motoring use thanks to its touchscreen display and voice commands. Renault R-Link incorporates the navigation system and telephony function and can be connected to portable music players. In a second step to come soon after the launch, it  also provide access to R-Link Store's catalogue of automotive applications that can be downloaded in the same way as smartphone applications.

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Porsche 911 Carrera, 2013

 

 

 

•  Porsche 911 Carrera, 2013

The new generation Porsche 911 Carrera is emerging from one of the biggest development steps in the long history of this classic sports car. Almost 90 per cent of all components have been redesigned or redeveloped. With its all-new lightweight body, further drivetrain efficiencies and new suspension systems, the Coupé offers the driver improved Porsche Intelligent Performance. This manifests itself in yet further enhanced driving dynamics, up to 16 per cent lower fuel consumption and emissions combined with even greater everyday practicality.

The Porsche 911 Carrera's design and proportions have developed in step with the technology. One of the most pronounced points of differentiation is the 100 millimetre (3.94 inch) longer wheelbase.The body on the other hand is only 56 millimetres (2.20 inch) longer overall lengthwise, the overhangs being shortened by 32 millimetres (1.26 inch) at the front and twelve millimetres (0.47 inch) at the rear. The Carrera's roof line is around seven millimetres lower than that of its predecessor and around six millimetres for the Carrera S. The maximum headroom remains virtually unchanged. For Coupés with a sunroof, which for the first time is of the electric slide/tilt type, headroom has even increased by 15 millimetres. With an overall length of just under 4.5 metres (176.81 inch) and a maximum width of approximately 1.8 metres (71.18 inch) the 911 Carrera remains the most compact sports car in its class.

The Porsche 911 Carrera's stylistic evolution is apparent from every angle. Viewed from the side, new styling, larger alloy wheels and the more convex windscreen contribute to the even jauntier, more coupé-like character. Typical of the revised, wider front end are the new headlights and larger side air intakes. The wider, variably extending rear spoiler emphasises the new 911 Carrera models' greater power output. Together with other aerodynamic optimisations, it also ensures significantly lower lift while retaining an equally good cd value. Redesigned, narrower LED technology rear lights complete the rear profile.

The Porsche 911 Carrera sets new standards in Porsche Intelligent Performance. The innovative aluminium-steel lightweight body, combined with a raft of new components and functions, benefits efficiency and driving dynamics in equal measure.

The new 911 Carrera is the first passenger car in the world to feature a seven-speed manual transmission as standard. It is based on the module of the optional seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK). The close ratio of the first six gears affords the driver outstanding acceleration capability, with the seventh gear's quasi overdrive attributes offering further scope for fuel economy.

The Porsche 911 Carrera is the first sports car that Porsche has equipped with an auto start/stop function. The system can save up to 0.6 litres per 100 kilometres based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). The auto stop/start function is married with both the PDK and manual transmission as standard. The joint thermal management system for engine and transmission and on-board electrical system recuperation reduce the new 911 generation's fuel consumption by a further 0.35 l/100 km. As the new cooling design dispenses with ventilation openings in the underbody, it also affords aerodynamic advantages, which are of benefit to performance.

The "sailing" function, making its very first appearance in a sports car with the optional PDK transmission, can save up to one litre of fuel for every 100 kilometres in everyday driving. If the driver takes his foot off the accelerator, depending on the driving situation, the engine is disengaged from the transmission; the 911 Carrera continues on its way with the engine idling. Especially at higher speeds, this function taps additional potential fuel economies.

In the Porsche 911 Carrera, optimised fuel consumption is complemented by Porsche-style downsizing: The 3.4-litre engine delivers more power from a smaller displacement than its predecessor with a displacement of 3.6 litres. That means the Porsche 911 Carrera with PDK is the first Porsche sports car to make it below the 200 g/km CO2 emissions threshold.

With its completely revamped suspension featuring numerous redeveloped components, the Porsche 911 Carrera raises the driving dynamics bar yet another notch. The longer wheelbase alone, combined with the wider track width at the front, generates an entirely different geometry with more sure-footed tracking and roll stability at high longitudinal and cornering speeds.

With the new electro-mechanical power steering, the Porsche engineers managed to develop a system that combines Porsche's trademark precision and feedback with superior consumption and comfort for the very first time. As the system only requires power when steering, the electro-mechanical system saves at least 0.1 litres per 100 kilometres.

The new active Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), available for the Carrera S as an optional extra, expands the lateral dynamics boundaries yet again by a sizeable margin. PDCC is an active roll compensation system that detects the very instant the vehicle begins to roll when cornering, eliminating it almost entirely. The system makes for greater agility in every speed regime, improved cornering and stable load change behaviour. PDCC therefore represents a new highlight in terms of driving dynamics.

Making its debut in the Porsche 911 Carrera S, Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), featured as standard, ensures even better tracking and tracking stability, together with reduced sensitivity to load changes. Together with a seven-speed manual transmission, this system comprises a mechanical rear differential lock and variable torque distribution to the rear axle. In vehicles fitted with the Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK), the even higher-performance PTV Plus comes with the electronically controlled, fully variable, rear differential lock. PTV or PTV Plus further improves agility and steering precision by means of selective braking interventions applied to the inside rear wheel. PTV and PTV Plus are also available for the 911 Carrera as an optional extra.

To complement the Porsche 911 Carrera's new exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior, the architecture of which takes its cue from the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted gear lever or gear selector located especially close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. The most important function and settings buttons for operating the vehicle are grouped in logical clusters on the centre console. Centrally located in the completely redeveloped dashboard, a larger seven-inch touch screen is used to control a rich array of functions. Naturally, the classic, established Porsche touches, such as the five round instruments with the centrally located rev counter and the ignition lock to the left of the steering wheel are also to be found in the new model. Also, both driver and front passenger are seated on newly developed sports seats with electric four-way adjustment. Additional sports seat versions with 14 and 18-way adjustment are also available as an option.

The new Porsche 911 generation made its debut in two versions
911 Carrera: 350 hp (257kW) 3.4-litre boxer engine; rear-wheel drive, seven-speed manual transmission, optional seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.8 seconds, with PDK in 4.6 seconds (4.4 seconds with Sport Chrono Package); top speed 289 km/h (179.6 mph), with PDK 287 km/h (178.3 mph); fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.0 l/100 km, CO2 212 g/km; with PDK 8.2 l/100 km; CO2 194 g/km.

911 Carrera S: 400 hp (294 kW) 3.8-litre boxer engine; rear-wheel drive, seven-speed manual transmission, optional seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); acceleration 0 - 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.5 seconds, with PDK in 4.3 seconds (4.1 seconds with Sport Chrono Package); top speed 304 km/h (188.9 mph), with PDK 302 km/h (187.7mph); fuel consumption (NEDC) 9.5 l/100 km; CO2 224 g/km; with PDK 8.7 l/100 km; CO2 205 g/km.

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