Saturday, October 31, 2009

Axon 8080 Plug-In Hybrid

Axon 8080 Plug In Hybrid Car Pics

UK-based Axon Automotive previewed a pre-production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of its lightweight city car at the Milton Keynes Science Festival. The Axon gasoline-powered city car uses existing engine technology and carbon fibre material advances to offer 100 mpg UK (83.3 mpg US, 2.8 L/100km).

The Axon 8080 plug-in hybrid is built to accommodate two adults, with plenty of luggage space. On of the main design features of the Axon 8080 plug-in hybrid are the seats which were designed by a fashion house and made from recycled fabrics.

Using a typical UK powerstation mix to account for emissions generated during electricity generation, the Axon PHEV emits just under 50 g/km of CO2 for the mix of electric and gasoline used in the Government test. This is half the level needed for free annual road tax in UK for this car (band ‘A’ is below 100 g/km of CO2 = zero road tax in the UK).

The Axon 8080 plug-in hybrid price has not been announced yet, but the manufacturer says it will go on the market in 2011.

[Source: Axon-Automotive]

Hennessey Hyundai Genesis Carbon Coupe

Hennessey Hyundai Genesis Carbon Coupe Car Pictures

Demonstrating the wide range of aftermarket potential for the Genesis Coupe, Hyundai Motor America has partnered with Hennessey Performance Engineering (HPE) and the Tuner School to develop a powerful entry for this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The carbon fiber-wrapped, matte black Genesis Carbon Coupe. Designed with striking European vision, the Hennessey Genesis Carbon Coupe also boasts an amazing performance numbers.

The new car carries 500 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 465 lb-ft of torque and can sprint from naught to sixty in just 3.9 seconds while for the quarter mile run it needs just 12.5 seconds. Hennessey obtained these impressive numbers with several engine modifications such as a Hennessey Custom Single Turbo System, Precision 66 mm ball bearing turbocharger, Tial blow-off valve and 44 mm wastegate, a HKS boost controller, upgraded injectors and fuel pump.

Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with a Savini lightweight wheels with chrome lips and silver centers, Eibach springs and Brembo lightweight rotors.

[Source: Hyundai]

Friday, October 23, 2009

2010 Nissan GTR Price

2010 Nissan GTR SpecV




Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the release of the latest version of the Nissan GT-R, which goes on sale on December 7th at Nissan dealers nationwide in Japan. The updated GT-R receives a number of enhancements, including a revised navigation system, recalibrated suspension settings and an improved-flow catalyst system. It is scheduled to go on sale in other global markets beginning next spring.

Since its introduction in the Japanese market in December 2007, the Nissan GT-R has gone through continuous evolution, remaining on the cutting-edge of multi-dimensional performance. The GT-R has also been acclaimed globally, winning more than 50 top awards in various categories since launch. Nissan also supports GT-R owners with exceptional after-sales service.

The latest revisions to GT-R include a new HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with enhanced entertainment functions. A USB port with iPod®*1 connectivity allows the driver and passengers to enjoy their favorite music in the car, creating an even more pleasant interior environment. *2

In addition, the GT-R’s suspension has been retuned to offer enhanced, premium quality ride comfort, while still providing the driver with a feeling of direct contact with the road surface. The accuracy of the front shock absorbers and springs has been increased and the stiffness of rear suspension radius rod bushings has been strengthened. Rear diffusers with cooling ducts, previously available only on the GT-R SpecV, have been expanded to non-SpecV models, improving cooling performance around the rear floor area.

The exclusive Nissan GT-R SpecV models receive revised rear shock absorber settings, enhancing the characteristic combination of supple ride comfort and flat, predictable handling. In conjunction with this change, SpecV now comes standard with Dunlop tires. The previously standard Bridgestone tires are available as a factory-installed option.

Finally, both the Nissan GT-R and GT-R SpecV achieve improved low- and mid-range engine response, thanks to newly adopted hexagonal meshed catalyst cells that reduce ventilation/airflow resistance.

Nationwide MSRP Pricing in Japan (including consumption tax)

GT-R
8,610,000

GT-R Black edition
8,820,000

GT-R Premium edition
9,240,000

GT-R SpecV
15,750,000

2010 Nissan GTR SpecV



Wednesday, October 21, 2009

2010 Porsche Panamera

2010 Porsche Panamera

2010 Porsche Panamera

Porsche Panamera, a unique four-seater, was conceived and designed as a four-door grand touring sports car, combining numerous talents in typical Porsche style: sporting driving dynamics, a spacious interior, and the supreme comfort of a Gran Turismo. Joining the 911, Boxster and Cayman sports cars as well as the Cayenne SUV, the Panamera is Porsche’s fourth model series.

Citroen C4 Sebastian Loeb Edition

Citroen C4 Sebastian Loeb EditionCitroen C4 Sebastian Loeb Edition
Citroen C4 Sebastian Loeb Edition

Infiniti Confirms M35 Hybrid Production

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid

Infiniti today confirmed that its first production hybrid vehicle will be part of the recently announced line of 2011 Infiniti M luxury performance sedans, which are scheduled to go on sale in spring 2010 at Infiniti dealers nationwide. The Infiniti M35 hybrid is expected to arrive about 12 months later as a 2012 model. It is Infiniti’s first hybrid in its 20-year existence, as well as the cleanest and most economical car in Infiniti’s history.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

2010 Kia Cadenza

2010 Kia Cadenza

Kia Motors Corporation has taken the wraps off its new Kia Cadenza, the production version of its VG concept car – an all-new saloon car designed to deliver refinement, safety and emotional satisfaction in an ‘ideal’ driving package.

The stylish luxury sedan, which is to be called ‘Cadenza’ in markets outside of Korea, will make its overseas premiere at motor shows in the Middle East, towards the end of the year.

The Kia Cadenza name is derived from an Italian musical term used to describe an elaborate, ornamental flourish for a concerto or aria. It perfectly symbolizes the dynamic saloon’s striking design philosophy and premium image.

Sporty and sleek in appearance, Kia Cadenza features a bold headlamp design with attention-grabbing LED surrounds and a purposeful, athletic character line. The prominent front grille and stylish tail-lights emphasize the car’s high-tech feel and are a continuing expression of Kia's dramatic design DNA.

On the inside, there is a futuristic ‘floating’ dashboard that highlights Kia’s uniquely innovative design approach. The welcome system turns on the exterior puddle and interior lights to ‘greet’ the driver, while the interior mood lighting strip, which runs along the dashboard to the door trim, creates a warm atmosphere within the vehicle.

The Kia Cadenza’s dynamic design and driving performance, allied with a raft of competitive passenger-friendly high-tech features, will make it a leader in the large, luxury sedan market segment.

Luxury features will include a heated steering wheel for winter driving in cold countries, powered extendable seat cushions to give extra thigh support, automatic defogging of the windscreen and ventilated front seats providing cool comfort in hot countries.

Soon-Nam Lee, Director of the Overseas Marketing Group, Kia Motors Corporation, said, “The new Kia Cadenza will showcase the continuing evolution in Kia’s striking design language through the harmonious blend of light and lines. It will also present a new concept in luxury sedans in terms of performance and technology.”

Kia Cadenza is positioned above the existing Magentis model in Kia’s global line-up but currently there are no plans to bring to vehicle to the UK.

Kia Motors (UK) Limited Managing Director Michael Cole commented: “Despite its striking appearance and high-tech engineering I do not believe this is the right time to try and extend our range into a sector of the market that is dominated by German brands. But Kia Cadenza shows clearly how Kia’s design-led philosophy under Peter Schreyer is producing startling new products and it is clear from this car that our future new model program – which starts next year with Venga and the all-new Sorento – is going to continue the dramatic development of our brand in the UK.”

2010 Toyota Mark X Official Revealed






2010 Toyota Mark XTOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces the launch in Japan today of the redesigned "Mark X", which furthers the series' "sporty and luxurious" concept by offering enhanced quality in an authentic rear-wheel-drive sedan.

The Mark X features a dynamic low center of gravity that is combined with powerful driving performance made possible by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine. The style and driving performance of this upscale vehicle are in tune with adult sensibilities, delivering in-touch-with-the-road steering that responds instantaneously to the driver's every wish, stability at high speeds and a smooth comfortable ride.

In addition, the vehicle's environmental performance is at the top of its class1. The fuel efficiency of the Relax Selection two-wheel drive models exceeds the 2010 standards by 15%, qualifying them for incentives and subsidies under the Japanese government's taxation system for environmentally considerate vehicles.

The new Marx X, starting at an appealing 2.38 million yen, comes in a diverse lineup-standard type, sports type and premium type-to allow drivers to show their individuality.

(Products described in this press release and in any attachments are for the Japanese market.
Some descriptions apply to select model-grades/versions only.)

Monthly sales target for Japan: 3,000 units

Assembly Plant: Motomachi Plant, Toyota Motor Corporation

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (Prices in Hokkaido and Okinawa differ)

Grade Engine Powertrain Transmission Price*1 (including consumption tax)

250G F package 4GR-FSE (V6, 2.5 liter) regular gasoline - 2,380,000 yen ~ 2,674,250 yen

250G S package 4GR-FSE (V6, 2.5 liter) regular gasoline - 2,690,000 yen ~ 2,937,500 yen

250G Four F package 2GR-FSE (V6, 3.5 liter) premium gasoline - 2,611,000 yen ~ 2,905,250 yen

350S 2GR-FSE (V6, 3.5 liter) premium gasoline - 3,525,000 yen

350S Premium 2GR-FSE (V6, 3.5 liter) premium gasoline - 3,370,000 yen

350S L package Premium 2GR-FSE (V6, 3.5 liter) premium gasoline - 3,800,000 yen

*1Prices listed do not include recycling fees, *2Super intelligent,electronically-controlled, six-speed automatic transmission


Vehicle Outline

Rear-wheel drive package offers dynamic styling and exciting cruising

The design concept behind the Marx X is "glam tech"-combining the visual "glamour" conveyed by the vehicle with the "high-tech" expression of its modern and precise feel. The result is subtle contrast as well as a dynamic and stylish form.

The vehicle's silhouette is smooth and elegant, with expansive front and rear pillars to emphasize integration with the underbody.

The 1,435 mm height and 20 mm expansion for both width and track give the vehicle a low center of gravity.

Rear-wheel drive allows a front-and-rear weight distribution ratio of 54:46 for stable driving.

The bumper's wide opening and deep-set fog lights emphasize the face's low center of gravity and wide stance, while the three-lamp linear layout of the headlights and a mesh grille enhance the sense of vitality.

The combination taillights also have a three-lamp linear layout, while lights built into the lid of the trunk serve as a statement of class.

Six refined body colors are available, including the new Ice Titanium Mica Metallic.

The interior is sporty and dynamic, combining quality and precision that evokes a feeling of driving pleasure.

The leather-covered steering wheel's thicker ergonomic grip and a leather-booted gearshift add to the sporty feel.

The angles of the seat cushion and sides of the front seats have been optimized for superior hold. The driver's seat also features a switch-operated motorized lumbar support function that shifts the seatback forward or back to improve back comfort during driving.

The shoulder portion of the door trim for the front and rear seats has been pushed outward by 25 mm (total for left and right), while the distance between the front seats has been increased by 20 mm, resulting in a roomier interior.

Sports type (250G S package, 250G S package Relax Selection, 350S)

Sporty feel enhanced through tinting of headlights and combination taillights and through spoilers on front and rear bumpers and trunk lid
Interior features modern and robust black theme
Paddle shifter gives feel of manual transmission

Premium type (Premium, Premium L package)

Special plating on front grille, rocker moldings and front bumper enhance upscale image
Steering wheel and shift knob ornamentation boast wood-grain finish
Heated front seats effectively warm shoulders, lower back and legs
Power Easy Access System slides driver's seat back and tilts steering wheel upward and forward, increasing ease of ingress and egress
Refined velour-moquette seat covers are treated with mite-suppressing agent that also prevents static electricity, adding to passenger comfort

Sporty cruising performance and high-quality, comfortable ride

The new 3.5-liter V6 engine is paired with a 6 Super ECT with a driving response and acceleration management system to provide the ample and comfortable cruising characteristic of a full-scale rear-wheel drive sedan.

The 2.5-liter V6 engine (two-wheel drive) models offer outstanding acceleration, going from zero to 100km/h in just 8.4 seconds2.

Reduced friction resistance in the suspension and higher arm rigidity enhance maneuverability and provide in-touch-with-the-road steering and a smooth, comfortable ride. The sports type models are equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension, which combines mono-tube shock absorbers and computer control of damping force, delivering an exceptional ride, superior handling and stable cruising performance.

Depending on the driving conditions, the driver can-at the flick of a switch-choose between the Sport, Snow and Eco driving modes to optimally control drive force.

The newly adopted Variable Gear Ratio Steering system, which controls the angle of the front wheels according to vehicle speed to improve steering performance, is coupled with optimized electric power steering, resulting in outstanding handling.

Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management coordinates the drive power, steering and brakes to ensure excellent stability and improve preventive safety.

Expanded use of vibration-dampening materials limits noise penetration, resulting in a quiet and comfortable cabin.

Improved safety features

Outstanding safety performance is achieved by equipping all vehicle models with seven airbags, including SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) side airbags, SRS curtain shield airbags, and a driver's seat knee airbag; VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) to control skidding; TRC (Traction Control) to minimize wheel spin when accelerating; and Active Headrests up front to reduce stress on the neck in a rear-end collision.

The vehicle's Pre-Crash Safety System uses millimeter-wave radar to detect potential collisions and alerts the driver through a warning buzzer and display. In line with the possibility of collision, the Pre-Crash Brake Assist system, Pre-Crash Brake system and Pre-Crash Seatbelts minimize collision damage to achieve a higher level of safety.

When cornering with the headlights on, the Intelligent AFS (Adaptive Front-lighting System) shifts the low beams to match the steering angle and vehicle speed, thereby enhancing visibility in the direction the vehicle is moving.

The new Radar Cruise Control system, equipped with a brake-control function, detects and monitors the preceding vehicle, maintaining a fixed distance, in line with the preceding vehicle's speed, within a preset speed range.

Hill-start Assist Control prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when switching from the brake to the accelerator during a start on a steep hill.

Comfort features enhance driving pleasure

The multi-information display, which indicates average fuel efficiency, possible cruising distance and other data, features enhanced visibility through the adoption of a high-contrast white, organic electroluminescent (EL) display.

Fully automatic independent temperature controls for the driver and passenger sides-standard on all models-feature a function to remove pollen, dust and other impurities from the air in the cabin. Meanwhile, Plasmacluster Ions®3 technology combats bacteria and creates a comfortable cabin atmosphere through the balanced release of positive and negative ions.

The 480-liter4 trunk is roomy enough to accommodate four golf bags.

An HDD navigation system (compatible with the G-BOOK mX telematics service) features multimedia and other advanced functions such as Map on Demand, which provides automatic map and information updates and door-to-door guidance that pinpoints directions to a destination.

The premium models come with a G-BOOK mX telematics service-compatible HDD navigation system with built-in terrestrial digital TV tuner and gear-shifting functions for driver support in merging and exiting and at intersections; 12 speakers optimally placed to provide sound quality comparable to a live performance.

The Intelligent Parking Assist system uses ultrasonic sensors installed in the front of the vehicle to detect parking-space parameters and help the driver parallel park or back into a parking space by informing the driver when to turn the steering wheel and where to start backing up.


Reduced environmental impact

Efforts were made to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. The 2.5-liter two-wheel-drive models have a fuel efficiency of 13.0km/l5, while the 3.5-liter two-wheel-drive models have one of 10.2km/l5, thus placing both at the top of their vehicle classes1.
All vehicles in the series achieve emission levels 75% lower than the 2005 level required under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles.

The Relax Selection two-wheel-drive models have fuel efficiency that exceeds by 15% the level stipulated in the Japanese 2010 standards set out under the Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy, thereby qualifying them for incentives and subsidies under the Japanese government's taxation system for environmentally friendly vehicles.

All 2.5-liter models meet the Japanese 2010 standards and qualify for subsidies6.

An Eco Driving Indicator that lights up to signify fuel-efficient vehicle operation and an Eco Zone Indicator that shows throttle use-standard on all models-raise driver awareness of environmentally considerate driving.

Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System)-Toyota's original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system-was implemented to efficiently reduce overall environmental impact throughout the vehicle's lifecycle.

A review of the materials, processing methods and adhesives used for interior parts helped reduce the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as formaldehyde, as well as the discomforting odors sometimes resulting from such materials, to levels below those outlined in the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association's "Vehicle Cabin VOC Testing Methods (for Passenger Cars)", which are the industry's voluntary standards.

The door trim and carpet are made of low-VOC materials and the front console box is made from VOC-free water-based urethane synthetic leather.

1Compared to vehicles of similar engine displacement
2Based on TMC calculations
3Registered trademark of Sharp Corporation
4Based on Verband der Automobilindustrie measuring method
5Measured using the 10-15 test cycle of the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). The fuel efficiency indicated for the 2.5-liter front-wheel drive models is for the 250G model, which weighs 1,410kg.
6New-vehicle only, in conjunction with disposal of an end-of-life vehicle



2010 Toyota Mark X

Thursday, October 15, 2009

2010 Peugeot RCZ in UK

2010 Peugeot RCZ
2010 Peugeot 308 RCZ
2010 Peugeot 308 RCZ
2010 Peugeot 308 RCZ


The MPH show in November will be the stage for the UK premiere of Peugeot’s exciting new RCZ Coupe.

Visitors to this year’s MPH The Prestige & Performance Motor Show will be among the first people in the UK to get access to Peugeot’s stunning RCZ Coupe. Recently launched at the Frankfurt Motor show in September, the car has not been seen before in the UK.

The white Peugeot RCZ Coupe will be one of the star attractions of the show and is the first of the next generation of Peugeot cars, the car to be seen in 2010. Available with a 200 bhp turbo charged petrol engine, it will do 0 to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds and 50 to 75 mph in fifth gear in 6.5 seconds. It will clearly become the affordable “supercar” for the UK when it is launched in April 2010. The car on show will be equipped with stunning black 19” alloy wheels, carbon fiber roof, full leather interior and will be priced at £22,200 when it goes on sale in the UK.

2010 Peugeot RCZ
2010 Peugeot RCZ


2010 Peugeot RCZ



2010 Peugeot 308 RCZ
2010 Peugeot RCZ
2010 Peugeot RCZ
2010 Peugeot RCZ
2010 Peugeot RCZ

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Toyota FT-86 Concept

The Toyota/Subaru tie-up will bring rear-drive, boxer-four power to the streets for around $20K.

Toyota FT-86 concept

Toyota FT-86 concept wheel

Toyota FT-86 concept interior

Toyota FT-86 concept

2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid confirmed, coming in spring 2011

2011 Infiniti M

Infiniti confirmed today that it will offer its first production hybrid ever in its 20-years of existence with the 2012 Infiniti M35 Hybrid. The model will join the Infiniti M lineup in spring 2011.

Infiniti said that its hybrid system consists of a single electric-motor/twin-clutch arrangement, mated to a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6. The first-clutch is installed between the V6 engine and the electric motor, which Infiniti says allows for a more responsive drive. Infiniti said that the M35 Hybrid, which will carry a lithium-ion battery pack, has the ability to run solely on electric-power under certain driving conditions.

Additional technical details will be announced closer to launch.

2009 Mercedes-Benz E-class


2009 Mercedes-Benz E-classS ticker price:
$53,200 - $88,500
2009 Mercedes-Benz E-class Market price: $43,111 - $71,716

2009 Mercedes-Benz E-Class CGI


For the 2010 model year, Mercedes has introduced a new, redesigned 2009 Mercedes-Benz E-class offering more of the luscious ride quality and playful performance you expect from Mercedes along with crisper body lines and improved technology.

Still, it's not like old E-class was a slouch by any means. It was, and remains, an excellent midsized luxury car. But whenever a redesigned version of any car comes out, the old version gets huge price cuts. This case is no different. Available discounts of of $13,500, according to TrueCar.com analysts, make the 2009 E-class a truly tempting proposition.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI is a new diesel version of the Scirocco that has been announced by VW. Powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine, Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI may develops 258 lbs ft of torque from 1,750 rpm.

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds and will reach its top speed at 138 mph (DSG: 136). While for its emissions level, Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI comes with a CO2 emissions level of 139 g/km (DSG: 147) and a fuel economy of 53.3 mpg.

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI comes with optional gearboxes: a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG. For the equipment list, Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI will be equipped with 2 Zone air conditioning, rain and dusk sensor, a six-CD autochanger, and also multifunction computer.

Volkswagen Scirocco GT TDI manual version will be priced at 21,755.00 pounds. While for the DSG equipped version, the price will goes up at 23,060.00 pounds.


Press Release
The new performance diesel variant of the Scirocco GT equipped with a 2.0-litre TDI 170PS engine is now available to order. Combining effortless acceleration, made possible by 258 lbs ft of torque delivered from 1,750 rpm, and the ability to return 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle, the new model mixes style, economy and sharp dynamics.

The refined and powerful 2.0-litre common rail TDI engine develops 170 PS at 4,200 rpm and is available linked to either a six-speed manual or six-speed DSG gearbox. Both gearboxes accelerate the Scirocco to 62 mph from a standstill in 8.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 138 mph (DSG: 136), while emitting just 139 g/km (DSG: 147) of CO2.

The latest addition to the Scirocco range is available linked exclusively to the GT trim level and offers a comprehensive list of standard equipment including a six-CD autochanger, rain and dusk sensor, multifunction computer and 2 Zone air conditioning. In terms of safety, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stabilisation Program) and six airbags are all standard.

Friday, October 2, 2009

Audi R15 to require only minor modifications

tn_004__scaled_600_050

Image

Audi will have to make only minor modifications to its R15 TDI for the controversial turbodiesel-powered prototype to be eligible for next year's 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Rule guidelines issued this week for 2010 by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest--the Le Mans Organizer--suggest a compromise designed to reduce the effectiveness of the Audi's radical front end without forcing the German manufacturer to undertake a major redesign. The move on the part of the ACO follows threats by Audi not to continue with its prototype program next year if it was forced to make major changes.

The revised regulations appear designed to peg back the effectiveness of the Audi's front end, which is effectively a two-plane wing under the nose. The rules limit the position and profile of the clearly visible flap, which works in conjunction with the front splitter to create downforce.

Audi rival Peugeot claimed that it had been offered “guarantees about clarification and application of the rules” when it dropped its protest against the Audi in July. Asked whether the new rules went against that agreement, Peugeot Sport technical director Bruno Famin replied: “Maybe.”

Famin attacked the ACO for not “going far enough” and failing to write rules that are “written in black and white.”