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SsangYong Actyon Sports (2006)

2008-04-30T10:52:00.001+07:00

The SsangYong Actyon is a direct replacement for the SsangYong Musso. The SsangYong Actyon comes in two forms the Coupe Sports (Actyon) and the Sports Utility Truck (Actyon Sports). Both models will be available in a few different guises, with both 2WD and 4WD systems on offer as well as the choice of a third generation common rail VGT turbo diesel engine or a 2.3 litre overhead cam four-cylinder petrol engine.

Replacing the original Musso, the SsangYong Actyon Sports Utility has a wider track, increased load capacity and a more fuel efficient European designed Engine.

The Vehicle also comes with Double wishbone front suspension and a five-link rear end as well as the availability of ESP (Electronic Stability Program) is a big offering from the South Korean manufacturer. Along with ESP, the Actyon comes with hill descent control as standard (on some models).

The European sourced diesel engine produces 104 kW (139 hp) of power at 4000 rpm and 310 N·m (229 ft·lbf) of torque at 2700 rpm. The 2.3 litre petrol engine puts out around 110 kW (148 hp) at 5500 rpm ad 214 N·m (158 ft·lbf) at 4500 rpm.

SsangYong Rodius (2004)

2008-04-30T10:51:00.003+07:00

The SsangYong Rodius is a large MPV/SUV by the Korean automaker SsangYong Motor Company. The car was designed by Ken Greenley, former head of the automotive design course at the Royal College of Art in London.

It is available in 7, 9, and 11 seat configurations. The engines are the Mercedes-Benz licenced 3.2 L 6-cylinder petrol engine ( 162 kW (217 hp) & 309 N·m (228 ft·lbf) ) and the 2.7 L 5-cylinder common rail diesel engine ( 121 kW (162 hp) & 342 N·m (252 ft·lbf) )

SsangYong Kyron (2005)

2008-04-30T10:51:00.001+07:00

The SsangYong Kyron is a compact 'soft-roader' SUV (although it is quite big for its class) built by SsangYong Motor Company. It has a 104 kW (139 hp)/310 N·m (229 ft·lbf) diesel engine, with Mercedes-Benz engine parts. Although the engine is a great one in its own right, it does power a car weighing almost two tonnes which makes performance lethargic at best. It is one of the few compact 4WDs to be able to actually go off road, though, with a separate chassis. Its looks was designed by MG's Ken Greely.

In 2007, the robust XDi270 diesel engine is available on the Kyron increasing the performance to 121 kW (162 hp)/340 N·m (251 ft·lbf). Both the XDi200 and XDi270 uses the 3rd-generation Common Rail technology. The sophisticated direct injection system boosts power and fuel efficiency, which lowers pollution and saves on fuel. The new 3rd generation ECU is operating on 32-bit platform rather than the 16-bit found on the previous 2 generations of commonrail technology.

SsangYong Musso Sports (2005)

2008-04-30T10:50:00.002+07:00

The SsangYong Musso was a SUV manufactured by the South Korean automobile manufacturer, SsangYong Motor Company.

First produced in 1993 the car featued a Mercedes petrol engine or a diesel engine. The car was designed by Ken Greenly and received Auto Design Award from the Birmingham Auto Show hosted in 1994 and 1996. Also known for its off-road abilities, Musso has won the first place from the Pharaohs Rally of Egypt among 4WD vehicles in October 1994. The Musso seats five people. The Musso's wheels are fit for off-road driving, similar to the smaller SUV SsangYong Korando. The SsangYong Musso Sports, a Musso variant with a truck bed, was released in later years.

SsangYong Rexton (2005)

2008-04-30T10:50:00.001+07:00

The SsangYong Rexton is a sport utility vehicle based on the last Mercedes-Benz M-Class released in Korea by the SsangYong Motor Company in late 2001. The demand for this vehicle in Korea has been huge, available worldwide. The Rexton offers high standards of appointment, quiet on-road performance, car-like handling, and yet rugged off-road capability. It can be configured to seat seven people all facing forwards, or as a five seater for more luggage space.

The car is available only with four-wheel drive and three engines: a 2.7 liter 121 kW (162 hp) / 342 N·m (252 ft·lbf) common rail diesel, a 2.9 liter diesel and a 3.2 liter 162 kW (217 hp) / 310 N·m (229 ft·lbf) petrol engine, all manufactured under license from Mercedes-Benz.

SsangYong Actyon (2006)

2008-04-30T10:49:00.006+07:00

Renault 8 (1962)

2008-04-30T10:49:00.005+07:00

The Renault 8 (Renault R8 until 1964) and Renault 10 were compact automobiles produced by the French manufacturer Renault in the 1960s and early 1970s. The 8 was launched in 1962, and the 10, a more upmarket version of the 8, was launched in 1965. Both ceased production and sales in France in 1971, although they were produced in Bulgaria until 1970 (see Bulgar Renault), and continued to be produced in Spain until 1976.

The 8 was released in july 1962 and was based on the outgoing Renault Dauphine. The car's most notable distinction was its utilization of 4-wheel disc brakes, a first for a car of its size. The 8 was powered by an all-new 956 cc engine developing 44 PS.

A more powerful model, the 8 Major, was released in 1964, featuring an 1108 cc engine developing 50 PS. A still more powerful version, the 8 Gordini, was also released that year, with a tuned engine of the same capacity but developing 90 PS and a five-speed manual transmission. The Gordini was originally available only in blue, with two white stripes. In 1965, the Renault 10 Major, a plusher version of the 8 with a different front and rear, was released, replacing the 8 Major. The 10 is significant as the first Renault model to be offered with a fully automatic transmission, which unlike all later automatic Renaults had a push button gear selector.

In 1967, the 8 Gordini received a facelift, adding two extra headlights, and its engine upgraded to a 1255 cc unit rated at 100 PS. Both the 8 and the 10 (already lost the word Major) were heavily revised for 1968, with some of the 10's features making it in to the 8, resulting into a reappeared 8 Major which replaced the basic model. The 10 itself was facelifted, with rectangular headlights added. The changes also saw the addition of the 8S, a sportier model with a 1108 cc engine rated at 60 PS. A larger unit, the 1289 cc engine from the new Renault 12, was added in 1970, giving birth to the R10 1300.

French production of the 8 and 10 ceased in 1971, with final sales as late as 1973. FASA-Renault, the company's Spanish arm, continued to produce models 8 and 8TS (quite analogue to the 8S) until 1976 for the Spanish and Mexican markets.

Renault 8 S (1970)

2008-04-30T10:49:00.003+07:00

Renault 8

The Renault 8 (Renault R8 until 1964) and Renault 10 were compact automobiles produced by the French manufacturer Renault in the 1960s and early 1970s. The 8 was launched in 1962, and the 10, a more upmarket version of the 8, was launched in 1965. Both ceased production and sales in France in 1971, although they were produced in Bulgaria until 1970 (see Bulgar Renault), and continued to be produced in Spain until 1976.

The 8 was released in july 1962 and was based on the outgoing Renault Dauphine. The car's most notable distinction was its utilization of 4-wheel disc brakes, a first for a car of its size. The 8 was powered by an all-new 956 cc engine developing 44 PS.

A more powerful model, the 8 Major, was released in 1964, featuring an 1108 cc engine developing 50 PS. A still more powerful version, the 8 Gordini, was also released that year, with a tuned engine of the same capacity but developing 90 PS and a five-speed manual transmission. The Gordini was originally available only in blue, with two white stripes. In 1965, the Renault 10 Major, a plusher version of the 8 with a different front and rear, was released, replacing the 8 Major. The 10 is significant as the first Renault model to be offered with a fully automatic transmission, which unlike all later automatic Renaults had a push button gear selector.

In 1967, the 8 Gordini received a facelift, adding two extra headlights, and its engine upgraded to a 1255 cc unit rated at 100 PS. Both the 8 and the 10 (already lost the word Major) were heavily revised for 1968, with some of the 10's features making it in to the 8, resulting into a reappeared 8 Major which replaced the basic model. The 10 itself was facelifted, with rectangular headlights added. The changes also saw the addition of the 8S, a sportier model with a 1108 cc engine rated at 60 PS. A larger unit, the 1289 cc engine from the new Renault 12, was added in 1970, giving birth to the R10 1300.

French production of the 8 and 10 ceased in 1971, with final sales as late as 1973. FASA-Renault, the company's Spanish arm, continued to produce models 8 and 8TS (quite analogue to the 8S) until 1976 for the Spanish and Mexican markets.

Renault Racoon Concept (1993)

2008-04-30T10:49:00.001+07:00

Renault Racoon

The Renault Racoon was a concept car created by Renault. This very odd concept car was first shown in 1992. The Racoon was unique in styling, but it resembled a later concept car created by Volkswagen that was called the Concept T.

The Racoon used a twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The Racoon was basically an off-road vehicle, so it used a manual transmission and an all wheel drive system. The Racoon's design was very unusual since it had an unusual shape. Also very unusual is how the driver entered the car. To get into the Racoon, the driver had to open the front of the car.

The Racoon was also unusual as it could be raised upwards to provide additional ground clearence. The construction of its suspension meant this was acheived with a levered effect, like opening a pair of scissors. The pivot for this can be seen in the centre of the car in profile pictures.

The car also featured many radical features such as rain diffusing glass, remote controlled entry, computer control, satellite navigation and cameras as opposed to rear view mirrors. While these technologies have become much more affordable and reliable, at the time of its launch most of this technology was still in its infancy.

It is for these reasons, as well as the additional costs of the unique suspension set up and the 3.0 litre twin turbo V6 the car was powered by that meant this car was never really likely to see production.

This vehicle was also aquatic-capable, and while there have been many aquatic cars launched over the years most manufacturers have come to realize that the automobile doesn't make for a good boat.

Renault Grand Espace IV 3.0 dCi (2002)

2008-04-30T10:48:00.002+07:00

Renault Espace

The Renault Espace is a large MPV originally designed by Chrysler UK in Coventry, in collaboration with Matra of France. It was manufactured by Matra in France, and marketed by Renault. Originally designed for sale as a Talbot in the late nineteen-seventies, the car was finally launched in 1984 and currently in its fourth generation, it seats seven passengers; the Renault Grand Espace is a longer-wheelbase version which seats seven and holds their luggage too. Along with the Dodge Caravan, the Espace was the original minivan.

Espace I (1984-1991)

The Espace's design was originally conceived in the 1970s by the British designer, Fergus Pollock, who was working for Chrysler UK (formerly the Rootes Group), the UK subsidiary of Chrysler, at their design centre in Coventry [1]. Later Matra, who were affiliated with Simca, the then French subsidiary of Chrysler, were involved in partnership in the design.

The Espace was originally intended to be sold as a Talbot, and to be a replacement for the Matra Rancho station wagon. Early prototypes used Simca parts, and hence featured a grille reminiscent of the Simca 1307 (Chrysler Alpine).

In 1978, before the Espace went into production, Chrysler UK and Simca were sold to the French company PSA Peugeot Citroën (PSA), and the Espace design was given to Matra.

PSA decided the Espace was too expensive and too risky a design to put into production, and Matra took their idea to Renault (PSA finally ventured into the minivan sector 11 years later with the Citroën Evasion/Peugeot 806).

The Matra concept became the Renault Espace. The design featured a fiberglass body mounted on a warm-galvanized steel chassis, using the same technique and assembly line at the factory as the Talbot Matra Murena. In fact, the introduction of the Espace required the relatively small factory to cease the production of the Murena, to make room for the Espace.

The Espace was launched by Renault in 1984 (incidentally, the minivan that Chrysler had also been developing in the US was released a year earlier than the Espace in 1983).

Espace 1 - Phase 2

Building upon its success, the Espace was revamped in 1988 with most of the Talbot/Simca content being replaced by equivalent Renault parts (the chassis and mechanical components of the car remained largely unchanged). The most obvious cosmetic exterior difference between the very first Espaces and the revamped post-1988 models were the changed headlights: the forward-slanting lights with orange indicator casing of the original Espace were replaced with backward-slanting lights with a clear indicator casing.

Espace II (1991-1997)

A heavily revised Espace was launched in 1991, adopting the Renault family look to replace the Talbot-themed styling of the original. This was essentially a re-skin of the original car, with a new dashboard and other interior improvements. The chassis was essentially unchanged.

Espace III (1997-2003)

The third generation of the Espace arrived in 1997, its most notable feature being the radical futuristic interior (with a centrally-mounted digital speedometer).

Espace IV (2003)

The fourth-generation Espace arrived in 2003 and was the first Espace designed and built entirely by Renault. All of the production of the earlier Espaces was built by Matra in their Romarantin factory. The new vehicle was also the first all-steel Espace.

It's styling was reflective of a new design direction at Renault, symbolised by the radical Vel Satis and Avantime models, marking a major departure from the previous model, which also saw the range moved upmarket.

In 2002, Renault goals were to deliver 450,000 units of the fourth-generation Espace before 2009, which will account for 20% of the European market for MPVs/minivans. This 2009 target for Espace sales figures suggest that the fifth-generation Espace will be released that same year.

In exchange for giving up design and production of the Espace, Matra were allowed to design and build the upmarket Renault Avantime model. However, due to delays in getting the Avantimes pillarless construction safety-approved, caused Renault to push their Renault Vel Satis model - whereby the Avantime when finally introduced subsequently sold so poorly that Matra ultimately shut down their automotive production altogether.

Espace IV - Phase 2 (2006)

As is common with most modern-day Renaults, the Espace has been given a minor facelift to prolong the life of the fourth generation before being replaced by an all new model. The revamp extends to a slight re-working of the grille and badge area at the front of the car, with the Renault diamond now sitting in a much deeper and more pronounced cavity. The body-coloured 'beak' between the two radiator grille openings is slimmer and sits flush with the bonnet edge above it. The headlamps have also been re-profiled so that they appear to follow the lines of the grille.

Startech Jeep Grand Cherokee (2005)

2008-04-30T10:48:00.001+07:00

Startech Chrysler 300C (2004)

2008-04-30T10:47:00.003+07:00

Startech Chrysler Crossfire Roadster (2004)

2008-04-30T10:47:00.001+07:00

Rinspeed Mono Ego Concept (1997)

2008-04-30T10:46:00.002+07:00

Rinspeed Mono Ego - the first single-seater car in the world that's licensed for the road!

To celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the Rinspeed Design AG company, Frank M. Rinderknecht has come up with something very special: the Swiss automobile tuner has created a vehicle that blends traditional beauty and forward-looking technology in a most impressive way - the Rinspeed Mono Ego. Developed in only a year, it is his company's anniversary contribution to the Geneva Salon de l'auto, an eye-catcher that could well generate active discussion among the visitors. Cooperation with leading international personalities and companies has put the "Rinspeed Mono Ego" in a position to make automobile history.

The French fashion designer Jean-Charles de Castelbajac (who numbers champagne producer Pommery among his clients) has transformed the Mono Ego into a mobile work of art. In the words of Frank M. Rinderknecht: "We granted him every possible freedom. The result is a multicultural work of art, created jointly by the Swiss Rinspeed company and by Castelbajac."

The tires come from the Dunlop company, which developed a high-tech tire with a novel tread pattern specially for the wheels supplied by Antera. This new tire generation was scheduled to reach the market by the Spring of 1997. Running-gear technology comes from the Eibach company, which not only works for the leading international motor-sport teams but also for the McLaren Formula 1 racing team. For the Rinspeed Mono Ego, Eibach is exhibiting in Geneva competition shock absorbers with four-position adjustment which it has itself developed. The Remus company has produced an optimized-flow exhaust system for the Rinspeed Mono Ego. The Swiss company Rieter Automotive Systems supplied the finest of all carpets for the interior. To ensure that Jean-Charles de Castelbajac's artistry reaches its full flower on the car's body, which was built by TLC Carossiers Inc. in Florida and transported by the air-freight specialist Lufthansa to Europe, the Burg Design company digitized all the plans and drawings by a special high-tech process. Audio entertainment and flawless route planning are taken care of by a hi-fi radio and CD system and the first-class navigation equipment from Philips Car Systems. Headlights, rear lights and mirrors come from the Hyundai Tiburon Coupé, and the exclusive golf bag was made by the Swiss travel goods company De'Shama.

Frank M. Rinderknecht utilized the very latest techniques in his development work. The vehicle was drafted out by computerized (CAD/CAM) methods, which permit every detail of a 1:10 scale model to be processed with such precision that changes are scarcely ever needed when the full-scale model is made. As Rinderknecht explains: Using CAD/CAM, we obtain unsurpassed processing quality and also an unbeatable development speed."

Under the body, which recalls racing cars of an earlier era, the supercharged aluminum-block V8 engine has a rated output of 410 horsepower. This compact power-pack accelerates the single-seater to 100 km/h from a standstill in just 4.8 seconds (and on to a top speed of 258 km/h). The Rinspeed Mono Ego's aluminum body gives it outstanding strength and rigidity, but at the same time keeps its weight down to 960 kilograms - yielding a power-to-weight ratio that will delight and impress even those who favor the most exclusive Italian sports cars. The 16-inch wheels are shod with 245/65 and 275/70 tires and protected by almost invisible fenders - the visual effect simulated by the tire treads creating a convincing optical illusion.

The Rinspeed Mono Ego, Frank M. Rinderknecht's latest automobile creation, is equally notable for the fact that it is a fully road-going car that complies with valid European Union legislation. "We wanted to build an exclusive car, but one that could be taken out on the roads as well as acting as a pilot project at exhibitions." With these words, Rinderknecht emphasizes the ambitious objectives he put into effect when designing and building the Rinspeed Mono Ego. The cost of Rinspeed's objet d'art, which combines legality and artistry so effectively, has yet to be finalized.

Stola GTS Concept (2003)

2008-04-30T10:46:00.001+07:00

Rolls-Royce 100EX Centenary Concept (2004)

2008-04-30T10:45:00.002+07:00

Rolls-Royce 100EX

The car was produced to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the meeting of businessman Charles Rolls and engineer Frederick Henry Royce. The figures speak for themselves but to get a better idea of the size of the car the solid silver Spirit of Ecstasy is seven feet (2.1 m) from the driver. The engine outputs are not stated by the company but the motoring press estimate about 700 bhp (520 kW) and 700 ft-lbs (950 Nm) of torque are close to the actual figures. There was much talk at its unveiling about a production version but Rolls-Royce have said they will not produce it. However the car would have been very easy to put into production as all the parts work. The company would not be profitable with its current saloon the Phantom and this model would help ensure the marque's viability. This car would have replaced the now defunct Corniche (2000 - 2002) as it was is the same kind of car and aimed at the same market.

However, as of 2005, it has been confirmed that a two-door, four-seat convertible inspired by the 100EX, and codenamed RR02, will go into production in 2007. It will be slightly smaller than the 100EX. Power will come from the 6.75 litre, V12 engine, which the new model will share with the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

9.0 litre 64 valve V16 engine
6 Speed automatic transmission
Dimensions: Height 1561 mm, Width 1990 mm and Length 5669 mm

Strosek Porsche Cayman (2006)

2008-04-30T10:45:00.001+07:00

STROSEK CUSTOMIZATION WITH 380 hp / 280 kW FOR THE PORSCHE CAYMAN

DRIVING DESIGN is the trademark of Vittorio Strosek. Now an exclusive STROSEK Individual Program is also available for the new Porsche Cayman. It includes striking and aerodynamically efficient body components: Engine tuning with up to 380 hp / 280 kW, custom-tailored light-alloy wheels with 19- and 20-inch diameters and precision-calibrated suspensions lend the mid-engine sports car even better handling characteristics.

To give the Cayman an even more striking front and to reduce lift on the front axle STROSEK DESIGN has developed an innovative, modular solution: The production front apron is refined with a two-piece front spoiler with integrated air dams for the front brakes. For further improved front aerodynamics there is an additional center airfoil that like all other STROSEK body components is manufactured in OEM quality from PU-Rim material.

The sides of the coupe appear longer and sleeker after the installation of the STROSEK rocker panels and the power STROSEK sport convex mirrors. The design team has also developed ram boxes for the engine that optimize power yield thanks to the RAM air effect they produce.

The rear of the various Cayman models can also be injected with additional sporty character: The roof spoiler extends past the roofline onto the rear window, thereby giving the Porsche an even lower and more aggressive look. The STROSEK rear airfoil was designed to replace the smaller production wing while still being deployed electrically like its production counterpart. The STROSEK aerodynamic-enhancement concept for the Cayman is rounded out with a diffuser for the production rear apron.

The STROSEK design for the coupe from Zuffenhausen is further characterized by forged STROSEK light-alloy wheels, which are available as one-piece or multi-piece rims with 19- or 20-inch diameters. The largest version features three-piece five-spoke wheels in sizes 8.5Jx20 and 11Jx20 with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires in size 235/30 ZR 20 in front and size 305/25 ZR 20 on the rear axle.

STROSEK DESIGN has developed custom-tailored suspensions that are the perfect match for these tire/wheel combinations. Cayman owners can choose from progressive-rate sport springs that lower the ride height of the coupe by some 35 millimeters and a sport suspension calibrated on the north circuit of the Nürburgring race track. The STROSEK suspension features variable bound and rebound plus ride-height adjustment.

Thus equipped the mid-engine sports car is well suited for additional power. STROSEK DESIGN offers two performance levels for the Cayman S: A tuning kit consisting of sport air filter, metal catalyst, sport exhaust and reprogrammed engine electronics provides an increase in power output from standard 295 hp / 217 kW to 320 hp / 236 kW.

Even more punch is available with the STROSEK DESIGN conversion to a 3.8-liter six-cylinder flat engine with 380 hp / 279 kW and a peak torque of 415 Nm. With this engine the coupe sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 288 km/h.

Regardless of whether it is used in conjunction with or without engine tuning; the STROSEK stainless-steel sport exhaust system with two high- polished tailpipes provides a more aggressive exhaust note and optimizes power yield.

For a stylish interior upgrade there are such exclusive accessories as velour floor mats with STROSEK logo and sporty aluminum shifter, foot pedals and foot rest. In addition STROSEK DESIGN offers exclusive fully leather interiors in any desired color.

Strosek Porsche Cayenne (2005)

2008-04-30T10:44:00.002+07:00

Strosek Nissan 350Z (2006)

2008-04-30T10:44:00.001+07:00

Saab BioPower 100 Concept (2007)

2008-04-30T10:43:00.002+07:00

Saab BioPower 100 Concept: Bioethanol Performance Potential Unleashed

The Saab BioPower 100 Concept, presented at the Geneva Motor Show, showcases the first production-based turbo engine to be optimized for pure, eco-friendly bioethanol (E100) fuel. The result is a level of performance never seen before from a road car using this fuel.

This exciting concept takes Saab BioPower technology to a new level by showing the true potential of combining turbocharging and sophisticated engine management with pure bioethanol fuel. And in demonstrating that greener motoring means even sportier driving, it also extends Saab's technical leadership of Europe's emerging 'flex-fuel' segment.

At the heart of the Saab BioPower 100 Concept is a modified version of a 2.0-liter turbo production gasoline engine from the current Saab 9-5 range, which in standard specification gives peak power of 150 hp. A test and development program - involving modifications to the engine management system and internal components - now enables it to exploit the high octane benefits of E100 fuel by using a higher compression ratio, together with more boost pressure. The outcome of this work is peak power of 300 hp and a remarkably high specific power output of 150 hp per liter.

"This exciting concept shows the tremendous potential of bioethanol, in terms of both performance and future opportunities to 'rightsize' engines," says Jan Åke Jonsson, Saab Automobile's Managing Director. "Bioethanol is already entering the European market as E85 fuel and we look forward to seeing further supply infrastructure developments that will make it more widely available in the future."

The Saab BioPower 100 Concept is presented as an evolution of the Saab 9-5 SportCombi. It is visually distinguished by styling features such as 'ice block' front and rear light units - extending a theme seen on the 9-3 SportCombi - and 19-inch 'turbine' alloy wheels inspired by those of the award-winning Saab Aero X concept, first shown at Geneva last year. The interior is upholstered in unique white leather, complemented by the main fascia and door trims, which are finished in black leather overlaid with a carbon fiber-effect pattern. The car is also equipped with Saab's innovative AlcoKey, an easy to use, pocket-sized alco-lock device that helps drivers steer clear of drinking and driving.

Total BioPower

Saab is already established as the leading player in Europe's emerging market for 'flex-fuel' vehicles able to run on gasoline and/or bioethanol (E85). Its current Saab 9-5 BioPower model is the best-selling flex-fuel car in Europe and Sweden and, at Geneva this year, Saab also announces BioPower's introduction throughout its 9-3 product range.

So far, Saab BioPower development has been focused on using E85 fuel, (85% bioethanol/15% gasoline). Now, with the announcement of the fully functioning BioPower 100 Concept, Saab confirms its leadership position by showing how bioethanol technology could be further extended. In combining pure bioethanol with Saab's expertise in turbocharging, the BioPower 100 Concept offers drivers an exciting win/win proposition: greener motoring with dramatically enhanced power and performance.

Running on E100, the concept car´s engine delivers peak power of 300 hp at 5,800 rpm and an exceptionally strong 400 Nm of torque between 3,000 and 5,100 rpm, withalmost 85% available at just 2,000 rpm. This strong and flexible power delivery gives the Saab BioPower 100 Concept car zero to 100 kph acceleration in just 6.6 secs and 80 - 120 kph (fifth gear) in an even more impressive 8.2 secs. The standard 150 hp gasoline engine produces 240 Nm of torque from 1,800-3,500 rpm, giving zero to 100 kph in10.2 secs and 80-120 kph (fifth gear) in 16.3 secs.

The secret behind such enhanced performance is the ability of E100 fuel to resist harmful self-ignition, or 'knocking', as the fuel/air mixture is compressed in the cylinder. This attribute is denoted by E100's high 106 RON octane rating. It permits the use of an engine compression ratio that is higher than normally possible with turbocharging, giving more power and greater combustion efficiency without risk of knocking.

The BioPower 100 Concept's engine operates with a compression ratio of 11.0:1, compared to 8.8:1 for the standard gasoline engine. This has been achieved by modifying the shape of the piston crowns to reduce the volume of the combustion chamber, thereby raising the engine's compression ratio.

New software for Saab's powerful Trionic engine management system, which controls the throttle setting, ignition timing, fuel injection and turbo boost pressure, looks after the different ignition timing and fuel/air mixture requirements of E100 fuel.

More durable valves and valve seats are fitted to the engine, together with bioethanol-compatible materials throughout the fuel system. The only other modification necessary is pre-heating of the fuel. This is required to achieve good cold-starting performance, which is the main reason why bioethanol is currently blended with gasoline and sold as E85 fuel.

In ambient temperatures below 15°C, the chemistry of E100 makes it resistant to vaporization and, as a result, it can be difficult to start the engine. To overcome this issue, the Saab BioPower 100 Concept has an experimental fuel heating system, using small heating elements in the inlet ports downstream of the injectors. When the engine is cold, these elements warm the incoming fuel sufficiently to allow it to vaporize. Shortly after start-up, the function is automatically deactivated.

On The Road

In optimizing the potential of bioethanol fuel, the Saab BioPower 100 Concept turbo engine offers improved driveability, as well as greater full power performance. The high compression ratio allows the engine to generate more torque more quickly, particularly from low engine speeds. On the road, the driver of the BioPower 100 Concept will immediately notice a sharper engine response, with a better low speed pick-up before the turbo is engaged.

On full throttle openings, the turbocharger packs up to 1.2 bar boost, without risk of 'knocking' from the high octane fuel. It gives the BioPower 100 Concept driver access to the sort of in-gear performance typical of a modern, naturally-aspirated engine of four liters or more. The smooth power delivery - without fossil fuel emissions - takes Saab's traditional 'less is more' turbo philosophy to a new level.

That impressive 150 hp/liter specific power output also indicates considerable future potential for engine 'rightsizing', giving the driver the performance characteristics of a 'large' engine without incurring its additional weight, greater complexity or higher fuel consumption. In this way, E100 offers significant potential to reduce the displacement of an engine - thereby reducing fuel consumption - while still achieving a desired power level.

The overall fuel consumption of the current Saab 9-5 BioPower engine using E85 is about 30% higher than on gasoline and the optimized BioPower 100 engine is expected to yield a near 10% gain against this. Bioethanol burns at a lower temperature than gasoline, which reduces thermal stresses on the engine and benefits fuel consumption at higher cruising speeds. With the future addition of direct injection and lean-burn technology, E100 fuel consumption can move even closer to gasoline levels.

For optimum energy saving, future E100 applications could also be combined with electric hybrid technology, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions still further. This development has already been previewed in the Saab BioPower Hybrid Concept, the world's first such vehicle to use pure bioethanol.

Whilst the BioPower 100 Concept is focused on performance, it still retains a 'flex-fuel' capability and the engine will also run on gasoline, or E85, although power levels are not so high. Trionic monitors fuel quality after every visit to the filling station and automatically makes any adjustments necessary for running on E100/E85 and/or gasoline in any combination.

To handle the increased performance, the BioPower 100 show car is fitted with a limited-slip differential and larger front brake discs (345 mm) and calipers, while using the sports chassis settings of Saab 9-5 Aero SportCombi. It also has a dual pipe rear exhaust system, with tailpipes similar to those of the Aero X Concept.

Superb Fuel

Bioethanol is a clean burning fuel that can be produced in many parts of the world from a wide range of agricultural crops and biomass. More efficient second-generation processes, using ligno-cellulose extracted from forestry and agricultural products, are also under development.

Bioethanol's simple, fixed chemical composition opens up new possibilities in engine management and control. It consists of just one hydrocarbon molecule, whereas retail gasoline is a cocktail of several hundred different hydrocarbons, as well as additives to prevent engine deposits which may not be necessary with bioethanol. It is also biodegradable and will dissolve in water.

As it is a single chemical compound, bioethanol allows engineers to exercise much greater precision in maximizing engine performance. For example, it is possible to maintain an ideal fuel/air mixture (Lambda 1) at all throttle openings without impairing the smooth running of the engine.

Saab's experimental variable compression (SVC) engine, revealed at Geneva in 2000, has played an important role as a test bed for BioPower development work. It has been used to help determine the optimum relationship between compression ratio and boost pressure for the BioPower 100 application.

"Bioethanol is a potent, high quality fuel which opens up exciting possibilities in helping to meet the environmental challenges that face us," says Kjell ac Bergström, President and CEO, GM Powertrain - Sweden, who has led the Saab BioPower 100 engine development team.

He adds: "As the need to reduce energy consumption increases, we are exploring ways to run smaller engines that give relatively high power, with and without hybrid technology. Bioethanol can play a key role in this 'rightsizing' process, while also minimizing fossil fuel emissions."

Helping to Prevent Drink-Driving

The Saab BioPower 100 Concept incorporates Saab's innovative AlcoKey, a vehicle 'alcolock' system designed to prevent the car being used if a driver is under the influence of alcohol.

The pocket-sized AlcoKey unit incorporates a cap covering a mouthpiece where the driver provides a breath sample before starting the car. Its radio transmitter then sends a signal to the engine's electronic control unit. This will allow the car to be started or, if the breath sample is found to contain alcohol above the permitted legal level, keep it immobilized.

AlcoKey recently won the Swedish Automobile Association's annual award for innovation and it is currently on user field trials in Sweden, where car fleet operators and public service providers want an effective means of reassuring the public that drivers cannot get behind the wheel if their blood/alcohol level is over the limit.

The field trials are focused on verifying AlcoKey's convenience and ease of use. Its transmitter has a range of up to 10 meters and if a breath sample is provided before entering the car, its quick three to four second clearance process should not delay the driver. In everyday use, AlcoKey can provide a useful check if a driver has had a drink some time before intending to drive or has been drinking the night before. It could be offered as an option for Saab 9-5 and 9-3 models sold on the Swedish market, priced at around SEK 3,000.

StudioTorino RKcoupe (2006)

2008-04-30T10:43:00.001+07:00

StudioTorino RK Coupé

The "RK Coupé" is the natural evolution of the RKSpyder which was presented in summer 2005., It is the perfect blend between German technology and Italian style. It will be limited to 49 vehicles and available also in the US .

The most striking feature of this custom- built car is its subtle and yet massive changes that are equally noticeable and unnoticeable. The design gives the car its well- balanced uniqueness and beauty.

The 440 horse power Coupé blends the balance of a mid engine power plant with chassis stiffness elegant curve lines and the perfect handling to make the "RK Coupé" a truly world class performer.

The RK stands for RUF KOMPRESSOR. The basis of this compressor engine is a centrifugal compressor with a planetary gearbox -a kind of mechanical turbo charger, which is driven mechanically by a Poly-Rip belt. The maximum boost is 0.7 bar. The engine has RUF designed intake manifolds with integrated intercoolers, new injectors, sports catalytic converters and a RUF electronic engine management system. The water-cooled charge cooler has a cooling water circuit with an electric water pump from the water cooler in the front spoiler.

The supercharged 3.8 litre engine of the RUF RK Coupé provides a 440 bhp (324 kW) at 7,000 RPM and 470 Nm torque at 5,500 RPM.

The acceleration from 0 - 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph) of the 3.8 litre RK Coupé with a RUF compressor engine takes only 4.3 sec., from 0 - 200 km/h (0 - 125 mph) only 13.0 sec. The maximum speed is 304 km/h (190 mph).

StudioTorino RKspyder (2005)

2008-04-30T10:42:00.000+07:00

Suzuki Swift (2005)

2008-04-30T10:41:00.002+07:00

New Suzuki Swift Press Release

1. Introduction

A new kind of compact car. A new philosophy and a new beginning.

The 2005 Geneva Motor Show presents the ideal opportunity to introduce both our new Swift compact, as well as our fresh new brand philosophy, which we've chosen to call 'Way of Life!' Like all our products, the Swift has been designed to deliver a driving experience with genuine worldwide appeal.

Our new philosophy focuses on bringing new and improved transportation solutions to customers, offering them enjoyable, relevant products that are useful to them right now, thereby enhancing their daily lives.
We are committed as well to creating cars that will result in true customer satisfaction. Our cars are easy to drive, meaning anyone can easily bring out and enjoy the performance to be had.
The new Swift embodies a globally-oriented approach to product development and manufacture. From the very beginning of its development programme, a dedicated team of Suzuki designers and engineers collaborated closely with European automotive professionals and ordinary motoring enthusiasts in pursuit of Suzuki's best compact car ever.
The new Swift is moreeye-catching, morespacious, more refined, more user-friendly, and a whole lot more enjoyable to drive than anything else in the compact-car category. And it gives an exciting glimpse of the new ideas and design approaches that will shape Suzuki models in years to come. As part of Suzuki's global strategy, the Swift will be manufactured in Hungary, Japan, China and India.

Radical innovation: The story behind the new Suzuki Swift

Suzuki recently embarked on a radical new programme of innovation: a mission aimed at reaffirming and strengthening Suzuki's position as a compact-car innovator; a mission destined to yield vehicles embodying the unique DNA of a company that's not only a world leader in compact cars but also the world's dominant force in motorcycles.
The motoring public's first view of Suzuki's new way forward came at the 2002 Paris Motor Show, where Suzuki unveiled the Concept-S, a racy, rally-inspired concept vehicle that reflected influences from Suzuki's two- and four-wheel racing activities and combined the benefits of Suzuki's racing heredity with cutting-edge technological features.
Next to emerge from Suzuki's new programme was the Concept-S2, an open-top sports car in which Suzuki evolved its new-model concept into a form with a more laid-back personality. Unveiled at the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Concept-S2 was dimensionally similar to the new-generation production vehicle toward which Suzuki was steadily working - a vehicle to be known as the new Suzuki Swift.
Plans for the new Swift took shape around a totally new mindset: Whereas Japanese car development often focuses first on the needs of Japanese motorists, the designers and engineers assigned to the new Suzuki Swift focused first and foremost on Europe; the new Swift was to be a Japanese car developed in Europe for today's global market.
The designers' first step was to establish a base in Europe, where they reassessed Suzuki's concept of car design and joined hands with European designers, who gave valuable insight into the European mindset. They stayed in Europe for six months, continuously refining the new Swift's design as they drew inspiration from the European landscape and people. The result is an innovative, sporty, and elegant design that has genuine international appeal.
The new Swift's handling, too, reflects a clear European focus. The engineers developed a totally new chassis and refined it through track tests and through a programme of road-testing across Europe. At every step, they incorporated feedback from European car enthusiasts. The result is handling that satisfies the most exacting European motorists.
And now at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, Suzuki is publicly unveiling the all-new Swift - a vehicle that embodies Suzuki's unique DNA in a way that's certain to generate excitement about Suzuki's new vision for the compact-car genre.

2. Exterior design

A head-turning fusion of dynamism and stability

Suzuki's exciting new direction in car design is instantly apparent in the exterior styling of the new Swift.
In contrast to the monoform styling adopted for many vehicles in the supermini category, the new Swift has a 1.5-box style that communicates an unmistakable sense of dynamism and substantiality; it consistently earned praise among European motorists who collaborated with the design programme.
A distinctively sporty front face incorporates clear headlamps and a wide airdam that not only suppresses front-end lift but also looks dynamic and stylish. And a stance that conveys a strong sense of stability is created by large-diameter wheels positioned near the extreme corners of the body and by boldly contoured shoulder lines that run from the headlamps to the rear of the body.
A wraparound glasshouse gives the upper half of the new Swift's body a bold, sporty look and helps to imbue the cabin with an appearance of solidity. The wraparound glasshouse design is complemented by a black finish on the A- and B-pillars for an even smarter, more integrated look.
At the sides of the new Swift, clearly defined shoulder lines are complemented by boldly flared wheel arches and side sills that further emphasize the car's strength and stability. The shoulder lines flow toward rear combination lamps that curve forward to meet them above the rear wheels, creating a uniquely solid, sporty, and well-integrated look.
And at the very rear, a substantial-looking, expressively styled tailgate meets a large, wide rear bumper that forms a solid visual base for the lower part of the body. At the top of the tailgate, the roof's trailing edge is shaped as a spoiler - a design that not only looks sporty and enhances aerodynamic performance but also realizes a valuable 1kg weight saving over a conventional bolt-on plastic spoiler.
The overall effect, which can be further enhanced by optional 15-inch, five-spoke aluminium wheels, is a look of stability and a sense that the new Swift is packed with energy and ready to deliver a dynamic drive.

3. Interior design

A cockpit designed for true driving pleasure

Inside the new Swift, the driver enjoys an environment that reflects a focus on style, sportiness, and driving pleasure.
The wraparound look of the glass surfaces is continued in the cabin design, creating not only a chic look but also a feeling of involvement with the car and confidence in it. Sporty features including a three-spoke steering wheel, a spherical shift knob, and an illuminated ring around the speedometer make driving even more enjoyable.
The top of the instrument panel is positioned optimally low to give the driver a clear view forward. This means the driver enjoys a feeling of openness and finds the new Swift easy to place accurately on the road. The overall result is confident, enjoyable driving with a satisfying feeling of involvement.
Instrumentation that promotes easy, enjoyable driving includes a sporty, easy-to-read triple-gauge instrument cluster in which the tachometer dial, in a reflection of sportbike design, has its mark positioned at six o'clock, where the eye falls naturally. It also includes a centrally located information display that shows the time, fuel consumption, and outside temperature.
The audio and climate-control systems are easy to operate thanks to optimally large, dial-type controls. For added convenience, the audio system can also be operated using optional steering-wheel-mounted controls.
The front seats offer superior support and hold, and each one has a class-leading fore-aft slide range of 240mm. Plus, the driver's seat has a height adjuster with an up-down range of 30mm. A tilt-adjustable steering column further accommodates for every driver. Even a relatively small person can easily find the optimal seating position for confident driving and easy pedal operation.
And throughout the driver's area, gaps and height differences between trim pieces are tight and accurate, further contributing to an overall sense of refinement and quality.

4. Powertrain

Efficient, enjoyable performance for every driving situation

For efficient, enjoyable performance that meets every driver's needs, the new Swift comes with a choice of three comprehensively upgraded engines (the 1.3-litre M13A petrol engine, the 1.5-litre M15A petrol engine, and the 1.3-litre DDiS diesel engine) and with choice of transmissions (a five-speed manual, a five-speed Manual Transmission Automated, and a four-speed automatic).
Each engine is tuned with an emphasis on performance at low and mid-range speeds (crucial in urban driving situations and on winding country roads) and incorporates a range of advanced technologies.
Key technologies of the petrol engines include variable valve timing (used with the 1.5-litre petrol engine), which helps to maximize torque and power throughout the rev range.
The 1.3-litre diesel engine has a common-rail fuel-injection system for superior performance, emission control, and fuel efficiency. It breathes through an intercooled turbocharger, which helps to realize a strong, flat torque curve with smooth response even at low engine speeds.
The transmissions also reflect Suzuki's focus on driving pleasure. Key features are as follows:
The five-speed manual transmission (used with both petrol engines and DDiS) has an updated short-stroke design with comprehensively enhanced shift linkages that give a firm, quick shift feel.
And the five-speed Manual Transmission Automated (used with the 1.3-litre petrol engine) offers the merits of both automated shifting and manual shifting for easy, fuel-efficient driving. Its automated mode has two driver-selectable settings: Economy mode, which emphasizes fuel economy, and normal mode, which emphasizes drivability.
The four-speed automatic transmission (used with the 1.5-litre petrol engine) has a gated shift lever that allows the driver to enjoy shifting gears for added exhilaration. This feature is common among sports saloons and coupes but has rarely been seen in the supermini category.

5. Chassis

Newly conceived systems for next-generation ride and handling

With the new Swift, Suzuki's chassis engineers targeted a dynamic driving experience together with a ride that feels sophisticated and comfortable. They achieved this difficult balance by integrating the body with a newly developed platform incorporating specially conceived chassis systems.
The newly developed platform provides the new Swift with wide treads (front: 1470mm, rear: 1480mm), a great overall width (1,690mm), and a long wheelbase (2,380mm). These dimensions not only benefit interior spaciousness but also help to enable superior on-road stability and comfort.
The front suspension has a new design in which the lower arms, steering gearbox, and rear engine mounting are attached to a suspension subframe. This design gives significantly higher mounting rigidity, which translates into lower road noise and a stronger feeling of stability.
The new Swift breaks further new ground by being equipped with torsion-beam rear suspension, which gives a superior combination of handling stability and ride comfort. One specific merit of the new arrangement is low unsprung weight, which enables camber angle and toe-in to be controlled effectively for accurate and predictable handling. Another merit is a space-efficient layout that permits a low, flat luggage-area floor.
To further enhance the driving experience, the power-assisted steering system has a newly developed steering gearbox that gives a more direct feel. And for further controllability, the braking system has an upgraded design in which increased caliper rigidity and other enhancements give sure stopping power.

6. Safety and security

Class-leading protection from collisions and theft

Peace of mind for users is always a top priority for Suzuki, so the new Swift incorporates the latest technologies for safety and security.
Developing the body from scratch enabled the engineering team to realize an outstandingly crashworthy structure; one in which high-tensile steel and tailored blanks are used extensively to ensure lightness and strength. It also enabled the team to adopt structures (notably in the bonnet, fenders, wipers, and front bumper) that help protect pedestrians in the event of contact.
In the cabin, users are further shielded from impact forces by a collapsible steering column, leg-injury-mitigating brake and clutch pedals, front-seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, energy-absorbing trim, front airbags, and available side and curtain airbags.
To help ensure that none of the advanced passive-safety technologies is ever needed, the new Swift incorporates a range of active-safety technologies including a four-wheel antilock braking system, an electronic brake-force distribution system, and a brake-assist function, which together help the driver avoid hazards.
And to give users even greater peace of mind, exemplary protection from theft is realized by a keyless start system (this permits keyless unlocking, engine startup, and locking), an immobilizer, and Suzuki's latest tamper-resistant door locks.

7. Utility

Cleverly arranged space for daily convenience

Although the new Swift has dimensions that make it easy to manage on the road, clever use of interior space realizes exceptional people- and luggage-carrying flexibility.
With all seats in use, the luggage area has a generous capacity of 213L (VDA). The luggage area is tall enough to allow a large suitcase to be loaded vertically. Plus, the luggage-area floor is smooth and flat thanks the newly adopted torsion-beam rear suspension.
In higher grades, the rear seat has a 40/60-split design and a tumble-folding function so it can be configured to create an extended, flat luggage surface on each side. Lower grades have a bench-type rear seat with a single-folding seatback that can also be used to create more luggage space. The tailgate can be unlocked electrically at the push of a button, making loading easier when the user's hands are full of luggage.
For further convenience, storage spaces for small, personal items are located around the cabin. They include a compartment in the instrument panel, a glove box, front and rear bottle holders, a seatback pocket, front door pockets (large enough for A4-size road atlases), and a tray under the front passenger seat.

8. Colours

A wide range of stylish body colours

The new Swift is available in 11 stylish body colours. Ten of the body colours were newly developed using environment-friendly water-based paint. Each body colour is a perfect complement for the new Swift's eye-catching contours and proportions.

9. An exciting worldwide promotion

This TVCF uses young world-class footballer Cristiano Ronaldo to promote the all-new Suzuki Swift's agile handling and dynamic performance. The TVCF features the Swift's agile handling as it chases a football through the city streets. Displaying the fine-tuned footwork of a world-class footballer, the nimble Swift is a world-class performer as well.
When the Swift finally comes to a halt, Cristiano Ronaldo himself steps out of the car to the great amusement of a group of kids, leading into the key phrase, 'Wanna Play?'
The all-new Suzuki Swift's performance is squarely aimed at exciting the hearts of everyone. Utilizing this thrilling promotion on a global basis will broaden the appeal of this dynamic compact car around the world.

Suzuki Swift Rally Car (2005)

2008-04-30T10:41:00.001+07:00

Suzuki Swift MK4

A redesigned Swift was announced at the Paris Auto Salon in September 2004. This Swift is intended to compete in the European B segment with the likes of Peugeot 206, Opel Corsa and the Fiat Punto. Available with 1.3 and 1.5 L engines, the new Swift is Suzuki's new "global car", to be produced in Hungary, India, Japan and by Chang'an in China. 3- and 5-door bodies are available.

The the new model is the first of its kind during which a Suzuki employed Indian engineers to design a car that would compete in the global market. The design of the new Swift was previewed on the Concept S and Concept S2 concept cars at auto shows, in the years leading up to its launch. It's proportions & essential shape are unmistakely like the BMW MINI, due to the blacked-out A-pillars and bumper-car stance. The exterior shape is described by some as "1.5 box".

Despite Suzuki's long-standing relationship with General Motors (which itself had prompted the development of the very first Swift), the new Swift is entirely Suzuki, and not based on the GM Gamma platform. The prestigious British Autocar magazine gave the new Swift a favourable 4/5 stars in road test, badging it a "thoroughly impressive all-rounder". Mk4 Swift has received a 4 stars out of 5 rating in the EURO NCAP crash tests.

Standard equipment include leather steering wheel, dual air-bag, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), front disk brake with rear drum brake, sliding storage under passenger seat, single CD player.

Since its global launch in 2005, Mkq4 Swift recorded above forecast sales. In Japan, sales figure doubled forecast. Mk4 Swift enjoyed healthy sales in India where a substantial percentage of the car is built with locally made components. Rapid sales of the new Swift model contributed to the 64% rise in Q1 profits for the Maruti corporation. Waiting period in India for the car is at least 3 months.

Suzuki Swift VVT (2005)

2008-04-30T10:40:00.002+07:00

Suzuki Grand Vitara V6 (2006)

2008-04-30T10:40:00.001+07:00

2006 SUZUKI GRAND VITARA: ALL NEW FROM THE GROUND UP

All-New Grand Vitara Offers Sleek Styling, Comprehensive Safety Features, V6 Power and a Combination of Refined On-Road Handling and Rugged Off-Road Performance

BREA, Calif. (August 22, 2005) - The 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is all new and offers sleek new styling, a larger and more powerful standard V6 engine, safety features that include six standard airbags and Electronic Stability Program® (ESP) (including traction control).

The new Grand Vitara is longer and wider than the previous model and offers increased interior space for driver and passenger comfort. In addition to extra headroom and more front and rear legroom, the Grand Vitara offers 24.4 cubic feet of storage space with the seats up and 68.9 cubic feet of storage space when the convenient 60/40 split seatbacks are folded forward.

The spacious interior features materials, fit-and-finish standards and safety and technology features usually found only in vehicles that cost thousands more. From standard front and rear side-curtain airbags to the available SmartPass™ keyless entry and start system, the 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara reaches a new level of sophistication in this market segment.

Also new for 2006 are two available four-wheel-drive options: a full-time single-mode four-wheel-drive system and a full-time four-mode four-wheel-drive system. All Grand Vitara models feature a new lightweight, yet rigid unibody construction enhanced with a built-in ladder frame to offer the best of both worlds - a refined on-road ride and the rugged off-road performance expected from Suzuki SUVs. As with all 2006 Suzuki automobiles, the Grand Vitara adventure is backed by America's # 1 Warranty.

Advanced Structural Engineering and Chassis Design

The rigid, lightweight unibody structure is teamed with four-wheel independent suspension - MacPherson struts in front and a new multi-link design in the rear - to provide precise handling both on-road and off-road. The all-new Grand Vitara also features large, front ventilated disc brakes with rear drum brakes, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and an available 225/65R17 tire package.

Every Grand Vitara model is fitted with an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and ESP. The ESP uses a variety of electronic sensors to measure speed, steering wheel angle and yaw. This information is sent to a central controller that can make assist as needed. Under certain conditions, such as when unintended oversteer or understeer is detected, the system can apply individual brakes and reduce engine torque to help the driver maintain the proper cornering line.

For example, if the system detects an understeer condition (the driver wants the vehicle to turn, but the vehicle is taking a wider line) ESP may apply braking force to the inner rear wheel and reduce engine torque to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle and take the proper line through the corner.

Standard DOHC V6 Power and Available Four-Wheel-Drive Traction

The standard 2.7-liter, six-cylinder, 24-valve DOHC engine delivers 185 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine gives the Grand Vitara an improved tow rating of 3,000 pounds — enough to haul light recreational boats, personal watercraft or motorcycles.

Advanced technology in the Grand Vitara engine also reduces maintenance requirements. The dual overhead camshafts are driven by a self-adjusting, self-lubricating timing chain (not a timing belt) that requires no maintenance in normal service. Also, a specially tuned variable induction system (VIS) improves throttle response and increases overall engine efficiency. As part of the overall refinement, the engine now sits on hydraulic engine mounts to further reduce vibration and noise.

The Grand Vitara is fitted with a smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission as standard equipment. The available automatic transmission is a high-tech, electronically controlled five-speed automatic.

Grand Vitara buyers who choose the available full-time four-mode four-wheel-drive system get one of the most advanced four-wheel-drive systems available. On the road, drivers have the security of full-time four-wheel drive, but when traveling off-road, drivers can use an interior-mounted switch to engage the center differential lock. If the going is really slow, the driver can select the Low (4L Lock) mode for low-speed power and traction. In addition, vehicles equipped with the four-mode system can be towed with all four wheels on the ground (with the transfer case switch in the neutral position) to reduce driveline wear and prevent non-driving miles from accumulating on the odometer.

The Grand Vitara is no off-road poser. With excellent approach, break-over and departure angles, and 7.9-inches of ground clearance, (7.4-inches for rear-wheel-drive models) the Grand Vitara is ready for serious off-roading.

Sleek Sophistication Meets Versatile Functionality

With its carefully engineered control layout and close attention to materials and fit-and-finish, the interior of the all-new 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is functional and attractive. The list of standard features is extensive and includes air conditioning with automatic climate control and micron air-filtration system, cruise control, digital clock with outside temperature and fuel consumption indicators and adjustable center armrest with internal storage.

The standard sound system features an AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA unit that is XM Satellite Radio-ready and features steering-wheel-mounted controls. A six-disc, in-dash CD changer with seven speakers is available, including two tweeters and a subwoofer.

Uncompromising Safety Features

The all-new Grand Vitara features a long list of safety technologies as standard equipment. Active safety features include ESP (including traction control) and ABS with electronic brake-force distribution. The Grand Vitara also features six airbags as standard equipment — driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags supplemental restraint system (SRS), advanced dual-stage front airbag SRS, advanced weight-sensing front passenger airbag SRS and front and rear side-curtain airbags.

The three-point driver and front passenger seat belts feature shoulder height adjustment. In the rear seat, each passenger is provided with a three-point seat belt system and a headrest. Second row Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) child seat system, along with rear-door child safety locks, are designed to help protect young rear seat passengers.

The innovative stamped steel unibody with built-in ladder frame provides comprehensive protection, with features such as the reinforced cabin with the added safety of a head-impact protection structure and front and rear side-impact door beams designed to help maintain the integrity of the passenger compartment.

In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, the hood is designed to absorb some of the impact and help protect against serious head injuries. The front end and the bumper use energy-absorbing materials to help reduce the possibility of serious leg injuries.

Packages and Pricing

The all-new 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara is offered in one trim level with three optional equipment packages designed to complement the Grand Vitara's high level of standard comfort, style and capability. The Grand Vitara starts at an MSRP of $18,999 with a five-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The extensive standard equipment list includes ESP (including traction control), ABS with EBD, six airbags (including front and rear side-curtain airbags), automatic air conditioning, cruise control, power mirrors and more.

Grand Vitara buyers have a choice of two high-tech four-wheel-drive systems: full-time single-mode four-wheel drive (standard on Grand Vitara four-wheel drive and Grand Vitara four-wheel drive with Luxury Package) and full-time four-mode four-wheel drive (standard on Grand Vitara four-wheel drive with XSport Package and Grand Vitara four-wheel drive with Luxury Package). An electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission is available with either rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive Grand Vitara models. The Grand Vitara with the Premium Package has an MSRP of $19,899 and includes alloy wheels, privacy glass, six-disc in-dash CD changer, subwoofer and more.

Available later in the year, the XSport Package, with an MSRP of $21,399 includes all the features in the Premium Package and adds electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission, textured fender flares and SmartPass keyless entry and start system. The standard equipment list is so complete, there are no options; buyers only need to select a rear-wheel-drive model or a full-time four-mode four-wheel-drive model. The XSport Package carries an MSRP of $21,399 for the rear-wheel-drive model and $22,799 with full-time four-mode four-wheel drive.

The top-of-the-line equipment package is the Luxury Package. This package includes all of the equipment featured in the Premium and XSport Packages and adds leather seating surfaces, woodgrain trim, electric sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, HomeLink® wireless control system and more. The Luxury Package with rear-wheel drive has an MSRP of $23,299 and the Luxury Package with full-time four-mode four-wheel drive has an MSRP of $24,699

Suzuki Kizashi 2 Concept (2007)

2008-04-30T10:39:00.001+07:00

After wowing the car world with the Concept Kizashi at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, Suzuki had unveiled the Kizashi 2 Concept at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, a crossover sports wagon whose design conveys the dynamism of a top athlete and inspires a powerful sense of excitement.

Conceived for energetic people in activities ranging from business to leisure, the Kizashi 2 Concept has an emotionally appealing shape that reflects a dual focus on status and vitality in a way that generates excitement about its performance and heightens the pleasure of ownership.

Under the bonnet of the Kizashi 2 Concept, a 3.6L V6 engine-the highest-displacement engine ever used by Suzuki-is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission for powerful-feeling acceleration and class-eclipsing performance during high-speed cruising. For superior environmental performance, Suzuki is pursuing solutions such as hybrid technologies.

Suzuki Kizashi Concept (2007)

2008-04-30T10:38:00.002+07:00

Suzuki Kizashi Concept gives a glimpse of the direction Suzuki will be taking in the third phase of their world strategy.

Although Suzuki is known for excellence in compact cars and full-fledged four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicles, we're now getting ready to expand into full-size passenger cars, and the Suzuki Kizashi Concept highlights this exciting new initiative. In the Suzuki Kizashi Concept, strength and flexibility are combined in a way that makes the car an impressive status symbol for its owner; a car that never fails to stir the spirit.

Suzuki Equator RMZ-4 Concept (2008)

2008-04-30T10:38:00.001+07:00

Built at Nissan's manufacturing facility in Smyrna, Tenn., the Suzuki Equator features a fuel efficient 2.5-liter DOHC inline four with 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque or an optional 4.0-liter, V6 DOHC engine producing a class-leading 261 hp with 281 lb.-ft. of torque. Designed for outstanding performance and durability, the Equator's V6 engine incorporates an aluminum block with cast iron cylinder liners, forged steel crankshaft, microfinished crankshaft and camshafts, Teflon®-coated pistons, variable valve timing and a silent two-stage timing chain.

The Suzuki Equator is matched to either a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission (I4 and V6) or five-speed manual transmission (I4), and offers an available shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled part-time two-speed transfer case. For enhanced off-road capability, the rugged Equator offers a comprehensive off-road traction system, including four-wheel limited slip, electronic locking rear differential, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), hill descent control and hill start assist.

The Equator's strong, fully boxed frame anchors a long 125.9-inch wheelbase (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/regular bed), enhancing driver and passenger comfort and stability, while its overall length of 205.5 inches (Extended Cab or Crew Cab/regular bed) provides the perfect balance of utility, maneuverability and composure for a midsize pickup truck. The Suzuki Equator features an all-steel double-wishbone front suspension and solid axle rear suspension with overslung leaf springs and a long suspension stroke for optimized off-road dynamics. Maximum towing capacity is rated at 6,500 pounds. EPA fuel economy estimates are still preliminary.

Other Suzuki Equator powertrain components include engine-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering for responsiveness and good on-center feel and standard four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). Equator also features a variety of available wheel and tire packages, including 16-inch off-road style wheels with rugged 265/75R16 tires and 17-inch wheels with 265/65R17 tires.

Styling and Utility

The all-new Equator features a contemporary exterior design with a number of unique Suzuki elements, including hood, front fenders, grille, bumpers, front fascia and tailgate. Both Equator Extended Cab and Crew Cab models offer an available high-utility bed that includes a factory-applied spray-on bedliner and an extensive tie-down system with adjustable tracks, providing ultimate cargo hauling flexibility through the use of five special "C" cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor and one each on the bed side rails and the bed header panel). Removable utility cleats slide into the channels, providing a wide range of attachment points for securing cargo - including Suzuki motorcycles or ATVs. Suzuki also will offer specialized bed accessories that make loading, securing and transporting a motorcycle or ATV easier than in many competitive trucks. To further satisfy the needs of active lifestyles, Suzuki will offer its customers a full range of more traditional accessories for use with the channel system, including bed dividers, sliding cargo trays and modular storage units. Crew Cab models will offer an available roof rack.

Interior

The Suzuki Equator offers the driver and up to four passengers a functional interior that combines versatility, cargo utility, comfort and convenience. Both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles feature flip-up rear seats, a fold-flat front passenger seat and removable storage boxes tucked beneath the rear seats to provide additional cargo capacity. The Equator offers additional convenience features such as a dual glove box with lock, damper and lamp, center console storage and one-liter bottle storage integrated into the front doors. A host of cupholders and power points are standard throughout the truck. Equator Crew Cab also will offer available leather-appointed seats, including a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated seats, heated mirrors and a factory-installed moonroof. Additional available interior amenities include a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system, Rockford Fosgate-powered audio system with six-disc in-dash CD audio system, optional satellite radio and MP3 capability and MP3 player aux-in jack.

Safety and Packages

The all-new Equator includes a comprehensive list of standard safety equipment, including zone body construction with front and rear crumple zones, dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and a front occupant classification sensor, three-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. To make the safety story even stronger, the Equator comes equipped with supplemental front seat side-impact air bags and supplemental curtain air bags for side impact and rollover protection for front and rear outboard passengers. Additionally, Extended Cab and Crew Cab models provide three-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants, including the center position for the Crew Cab. The LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchor system is provided in the rear seat of the Crew Cab model.

Equator RMZ-4, Quay and Quad Concept Vehicles

Designed to match Suzuki's performance-oriented motocross motorcycles, the RMZ-4 concept offers rugged off-road performance in a Crew Cab. This Equator-based concept, built by the Carlab of Orange, Calif., features a number of exterior modifications, including a bed extender provided by Amp Research, an eye-catching graphic treatment, 18-inch black chrome wheels and specialty Luzlab headlights. The truck's striking exterior is matched by an equally stunning sound system that includes an Alpine HD-Radio unit connected to Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components.

Another Carlab creation to debut in Chicago, the Quay concept is built to suit recreational boating and watersports lifestyles, with a customized paint job that reflects the look of Suzuki's line of marine engines. With an Extended Cab, long bed and hefty towing capabilities, the truck also is equipped with a state-of-the-art Visteon nav-control head unit that provides satellite radio, MP3 and navigation capabilities, in addition to Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components. The Quay also sports special 20-inch wheels and a matching locking hard tonneau cover.

Built to resemble the Suzuki QuadRunner ATV, and to accommodate a recreational outdoor lifestyle, the Quad concept was developed by Torrance, Calif.-based Andry Specialty Vehicles and comes outfitted with a Crew Cab and military "look and feel." In addition to a custom paint job and a two-and-a-half inch front end lift, the exterior of the truck has been modified with a set of 500 series fog lamps, a safari-style front bumper, front skid plate and tubular rocker guards. To enhance the vehicle's overall appearance and performance, the Quad is equipped with Yokohama Geolander tires that ride on 17-inch custom aluminum wheels and features Rockford Fosgate amp and speaker components.

Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept (2008)

2008-04-30T10:37:00.000+07:00

Performing onstage at 2008 New York International Auto Show in front of a packed house, American Suzuki Motor Corp. hosts the world debut of its sleek and athletic Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept, which completes the company's star-studded cast of media-acclaimed Kizashi concepts. In addition to the North American reveals of Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2, the global introduction of Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept coincides with Suzuki's announcement that it will produce a sport sedan derived from the Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept design.

The Concept Kizashi series was developed by Suzuki's Advanced Design Group to reflect a dynamic athlete in motion, taking design cues from a strong, honed physique while displaying the performance, strength and style befitting a flagship vehicle. The design theme began with Concept Kizashi, which made its debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, and the Concept Kizashi 2, unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, which further revealed Suzuki's new design language.

"Kizashi means 'prelude' in Japanese, and that's exactly what this design represents for Suzuki from both a business and a product standpoint," said Mark Harano, president, American Suzuki Automotive Operations. "Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept illustrates our brand character and personifies our heritage, design strength and engineering prowess. With customers in 192 countries and regions, Suzuki is truly a global brand, and the coming model carries on our mission to build the image of our automotive products in North America and eventually match our bikes' reputation."

Known primarily as a maker of small vehicles, Suzuki intends for the production derivative of the Kizashi series to serve as the company's flagship vehicle, strengthening its current product line of small cars, trucks and SUVs with a sporting, more accommodating sedan. The future production model will be built at Suzuki's brand-new Sagara plant in Japan, currently under construction, and provide an accessible alternative to the near-luxury segment. While a firm timetable has not been announced, Suzuki will deliver the Kizashi-influenced sport sedan to North American dealers by 2010.

The Concept Kizashi Series

Evoking the physical superiority and dignity of a world-class athlete, the Concept Kizashi series was developed to create a substantial presence that redefines the traditional performance vehicle and moves the Suzuki brand upscale. The overall design theme suggests physical strength from intense daily training, with the strong will, commitment and presence of a champion.

Each of the Concept Kizashi vehicles strikes a balance between driver comfort and sportiness, with roomy cabins melded to lean, dynamic exteriors. The hood and body style of all three Concept Kizashis hint at abundant engine power and wind-splitting aerodynamics, while the long wheelbase, aggressive wheel/tire combinations and abbreviated overhangs communicate a performance-oriented, energetic image. A powerful-looking body profile is incorporated throughout the series to convey underlying strength, with large wheels and a wide tread expressing a capacity for superior performance. Beyond its exterior architecture, the Concept Kizashi series constitutes a four-wheeled continuation of Suzuki's exciting, performance-oriented motorcycle heritage, represented best by its dynamic, world-renowned line of GSX-R sportbikes. Those bikes, some two decades after their introduction, continue to dominate the sportbike segment and have achieved iconic status.

Suzuki Kizashi Concept

Concept Kizashi made its world debut at the 2007 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, demonstrating Suzuki's progress toward the development of a vehicle that combines sportiness, style and substance. As the first concept in the Kizashi series, the vehicle's dynamic exterior was specifically developed to push the envelope and establish the overall design theme of the series. Reflecting the spirit of a highway athlete, the exaggerated dimensions of Concept Kizashi and its strong fascia communicate a dignified character and the overall presence of a dynamic flagship vehicle.

Suzuki Kizashi 2 Concept

Debuted at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, the Concept Kizashi 2 crossover sport wagon aims at drivers with dynamic lifestyles and can accommodate a wide range of activities. Continuing the series' athletic theme, Concept Kizashi 2 reflects the body of a triathlete, with the five-door vehicle's all-road capability enhanced by its raised height and all-wheel-drive configuration. In addition to the sport crossover's versatility, its 3.6 liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission promise a rewarding and engaging driving experience for daily drivers and enthusiasts alike.

Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept

The closest-to-production variation of the Concept Kizashi series, Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept embodies Suzuki's interpretation of the sport sedan segment in the North American market. The Kizashi's "super sport" identity, a core component of the Suzuki brand DNA, is tempered by the vehicle's overall mission to provide strong, refined urban performance.

As with Concept Kizashi and Concept Kizashi 2, the front end of the Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept expresses strength and style, with sharply fashioned headlights that emphasize the sensation of forward motion. The vehicle's exquisitely engineered body reflects Suzuki's distinctive combination of capability and refinement, with power flowing from a 3.6-liter DOHC V6 engine with plated cylinders — a weight-and space-saving technology that evolved from the lessons learned by Suzuki's motorcycle and WRC development teams. The body's monochrome finish, Kizashi Silver, gives the vehicle a sense of composure and depth of character, with metallic paint sparkling to emphasize the dynamism of the body's cross-section.

Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept Specifications

Powertrain layout: Front engine, four-wheel drive with Advanced i-AWD system
Seating capacity (persons): Five
Tires: 255/30ZR21 9.5J
Wheels: 21-inch, nine-spoke, aluminum
Engine: 3,564cm3 V6, DOHC, 24-valve
Transmission: Six-speed automatic (with paddle shifters)
Maximum power: 300 hp
Overall length: 4,650mm/183.1 in.
Overall width: 1,900mm/74.8 in.
Overall height: 1,450mm/57.1 in.
Wheelbase: 2,800mm/110.2 in.
Minimum ground clearance: 120mm

Suzuki SX4 Sedan (2008)

2008-04-30T10:36:00.001+07:00

AMERICAN SUZUKI DEBUTS ALL-NEW 2008 SX4 SEDAN AT 2007 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Created by the same Suzuki team that won European acclaim with the Suzuki Swift, the SX4 sedan joins the dynamic XL7 midsize crossover SUV, award-winning SX4 compact sport crossover and media-acclaimed Grand Vitara as an iconic vehicle that embodies the future direction of the Suzuki brand and the company's "Way of Life" spirit. Its 'poised for action' wedge-shape stance, muscular arched fenders and standard 17-inch alloy wheels all reflect the vehicle's eagerness to provide a spirited and responsive driving experience.

"The SX4 sedan will be one of the best-equipped compact cars in America and will perfectly complement our lineup of versatile vehicles," said Koichi Suzuki, president of ASMC automotive operations. "Since New York has been home to so many of our significant vehicle introductions, we're delighted to return and kick off the second quarter of 2007 with the launch of Suzuki's latest exciting product."

The SX4 sedan arrives on the heels of an impressive 2006, when American Suzuki enjoyed sales of more than 100,000 vehicles for the first time in its 22-year history. Last year's automotive sales were up 23 percent from 2005 and mark the company's third consecutive double-digit annual sales increase.

Powertrain

Built in Japan, the SX4 sedan features a sophisticated 2.0-liter, in-line four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine rated at 143 horsepower and 136 lb.-ft. of torque, making it more powerful than the segment volume leaders. It is available with either an automatic or a five-speed manual transmission.

Handling

The chassis of the SX4 sedan evolved from the award-winning Suzuki Swift that received numerous industry accolades worldwide, including many "Car of the Year" awards in Europe and Asia. With an emphasis on dynamic performance, the sport-tuned SX4 sedan brings the excitement of the Swift to the U.S. market. The SX4 sedan features a rigid steel unibody underpinned by a well-controlled chassis that was fine-tuned in Europe to provide stability, crisp and responsive handling and braking, and minimal body roll. For optimal braking performance, it features four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes as standard equipment.

Exterior Styling

Inspired by a Japanese Kabuki mask, the SX4 sedan has an aggressive front fascia and grille, and appears poised for action with a sporty wedge shape that foreshadows its rewarding driving experience. Its muscular and athletic stance is enhanced by its arched fenders, while the body features a low, rising waistline and large, triangular-shaped windows forward of the front doors to emphasize the car's great traction and dynamic performance. The SX4 sedan also features a standard aero body kit, complete with an available rear spoiler.

Interior

The stylish design continues inside the SX4 sedan. Wide door openings provide the driver and passengers with superior ease of entry and egress, while the large cabin proportions and command seating position optimize visibility to enhance driving confidence and control. The cabin allows comfortable seating for five, with more overall interior space than the segment's volume leaders. The SX4 sedan also features theater-style seating for the rear passengers.

A functional and high-tech center panel offers large, circular controls flanked by modern aluminum- colored trim. Instruments and controls are backlit by contemporary, high-tech red lighting, and the ergonomic design of the instrument cluster and dashboard provides clear views of the meters and easy access to the controls for a true driver-oriented cabin. The sporty cockpit theme extends throughout the cabin with a dark interior that features black cloth for a look that is both sharp and refined.

The sedan's handsome integrated center stack also houses a sophisticated audio system - standard AM/FM/MP3/CD with four speakers. The system is XM Satellite Radio ready and offers an available premium sound system, featuring nine speakers and in-dash six-disc CD changer.

Safety

Consistent with Suzuki's philosophy of both fun and safe driving, the SX4 sedan offers an extensive array of standard safety features, including four-wheel disc brakes with an anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). Passive safety equipment includes a reinforced body with front and rear crush zones designed to help absorb impact energy and six standard airbags: driver and front passenger airbags; driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags; and side curtain airbags designed to provide additional protection for outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. In addition, the SX4 sedan is fitted with front three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, three-point inertia reel rear seat belts and ISO FIX-compliant child seat anchors.

The all-new 2008 Suzuki SX4 sedan is scheduled to go on sale in the United States in the fall of 2007.

Suzuki SXForce Concept (2008)

2008-04-30T10:35:00.001+07:00

The Suzuki SXForce Concept is one of the latest additions to Suzuki's media-acclaimed Suzuki LIVE Series - a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers.

Reinforcing the link between the company's rich motorcycle heritage and versatile line of fun-to-drive automobiles, the Suzuki SXForce is a sportbike-inspired concept based on all-new 2008 SX4 Sport. Designed and built by Road Race Motorsports of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., the SXForce boasts a powerful 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter, turbocharged engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission.

The exterior shell of the SX4 Sport has been modified to be eye-catching to both four-wheel and two-wheel enthusiasts. It features a striking blend of carbon fiber, Flash Pearl White and Orange Metallic paint and showcases a number of performance-based automotive parts and stunning motorcycle accents, including sportbike-style side rearview mirrors and dual exhaust, also found on the championship-winning GSX-R1000.

While the Suzuki SXForce Concept is sure to be a showstopper on display, it was designed to look even better on the road. This fully drivable, track-tested SX4 Sport concept receives several performance enhancements, including a fully tuned performance suspension system, F1-style outlet gills to help underhood air flow, tailored rear bodywork with carbon fiber diffuser, Carbontrix rear wing, Tein coilover suspension height and damper setup, and reinforced structure to further enhance rigidity for optimal handling. The Suzuki SXForce is outfitted with 18-inch Enkei racing wheels and a staggered high-performance Toyo T1-R tire package - 225/45-18 in the front and 235/40-18 in the rear. It also is equipped with Rotora six-piston calipers with two-piece 355mm rotors for sportbike stopping power.

The motorcycle theme continues inside the Suzuki SXForce Concept, beginning with suede and leather seats and interior appointments, mimicking sportbike leathers. Other interior enhancements include motorcycle instrument cluster and controls, roof air intake for optimal breathing and a revised track-themed interior featuring carbon fiber components and accents. Engine vitals are monitored via a Zeitronix ZT-2 wideband data logger and all vital engine parameters are logged on a laptop and viewed on the ZT-2 gauge mounted on the Hayabusa handlebars. The Suzuki SXForce is equipped with an integrated Garmin navigation system, and its rear seats have been removed and replaced by a high-output Rockford Fosgate audio system.

Suzuki Splash (2008)

2008-04-30T10:33:00.000+07:00

SUZUKI SPLASH - A NEW SMALL PASSENGER CAR WITH EUROPEAN DESIGN

With the Suzuki Splash, a new fresh and exciting small passenger car, Suzuki Motor Corporation intends to gain a significant market share in this growing market segment in Europe. The new flexible compact car combines the sportiness of Suzuki's successful model Swift with the technologies and immense know-how of the Japanese world market leader in the mini car segment. The Suzuki Splash is not the successor of any specific former Suzuki model, but a brand-new concept to satisfy the needs of demanding European customers in terms of roominess, compactness, modern design, aerodynamics, quality, driveability, performance and environmental friendliness. The safety equipment encompasses state-of-the-art features such as six airbags and an Electronic Stability Program (ESP®). It looks fresh, energetic, juvenile and emotional and thereby underlines the aspiration of its name Splash. Within the global growth strategy of Suzuki, the Suzuki Splash is already the fourth entirely new model within three years after the launch of Swift, Grand Vitara and SX4 which all embody Suzuki's unique 'Way of Life!'-philosophy.

Within this market segment, the car convinces with a relatively tall body (1.6 metres) based on the chassis from the sporty Swift. With its overall length of 3.7 metres and width of 1.7 metres it offers an amply tall and comfortable roomy cabin with sufficient legroom for adults on all seats. Its modern design leads to excellent aerodynamic efficiency and consequently to low carbon-dioxide emissions.

The Suzuki Splash will make its worldwide debut at the International Motor Show in September in Frankfurt am Main. Sales of the car with its excellent ride comfort will start as of spring 2008. It will be available with two different petrol engines: a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, 12-valve unit with maximum power of 48kW (65hp) and a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve unit with maximum power of 63kW (86hp). With these engines, low friction and plentiful flat torque delivery at low and mid-range speeds help to ensure good driveability across the rev range while promoting fuel economy and limiting CO2 emissions. Customers preferring a diesel engine can choose a proven 1.3-litre, common rail, 16-valve unit with optional particulate filter and a maximum power of 55kW (75hp). In light of the growing need for environmental compatibility, emissions of all three engines with 5-speed manual gearbox are between only 120g/km and 140g/km. The petrol engines were both newly developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation as next-generation power engines. The diesel engine will be produced at Suzuki's plant in India under licence from GM Powertrain Europe.

Suzuki aims to sell up to 60,000 units per year of the Suzuki Splash in Europe. The brand-new model has been developed by Suzuki Motor Corporation and will be produced by its subsidiary company Magyar Suzuki Corporation in Hungary.

TechArt Porsche Cayman (2006)

2008-04-30T10:31:00.002+07:00

The sports outfit for the Porsche Cayman: TechArt Automobildesign ( www.techart.de ) introduces an elegantly styled and aerodynamically efficient bodystyling program for the new coupe.

The TechArt front spoiler, which is mounted to the production bumper, lends the front of the two-seater a more dynamic appearance. But that's not all: At high speeds it also reduces lift on the front axle.

The TechArt side sills were shaped to calm the airstream between front and rear wheel houses and further to give the Cayman a lower, sleeker appearance. To optimize the lifting effect on the rear axle and to achieve a more exciting look, TechArt Automobildesign offers a rear spoiler for the Cayman models.
The sporty TechArt looks are also characterized by custom-tailored tire/wheel combinations. The one-piece TechArt Formula wheels are especially light weight and are available for the new Cayman in 17-, 18-, 19- or 20-inch diameters, all TÜV-tested. The largest version features 8.5Jx20 wheels with ContiSportContact 2 tires in size 235/30 ZR 20 in front and 11Jx20 wheels with 305/25 ZR 20 tires on the rear axle.

The TechArt suspensions are custom-calibrated to the new tires. For a ride-height lowering by some 25 - 30 millimeters TechArt offers sport springs, which also harmonize perfectly with the PASM suspension available from the factory. A sport suspension with firmer ride is in the testing phase of development.
As a world-renowned specialist for exclusive interiors TechArt Automobildesign also creates individual interiors for the new Cayman in all colors and designs in the company-own upholstery shop.

The lineup includes exclusive fully leather interiors and sporty accessories: TechArt offers ergonomically shaped airbag sport steering wheels with three or four spokes, and aluminum foot pedals, shift knob and foot rest. In addition there are stainless-steel sill plates with TechArt logo.
Anyone longing for a sportier engine sound will soon be able to order a TechArt stainless-steel sport exhaust.
TechArt engine tuning for the new Porsche Cayman is under development.

TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo (2007)

2008-04-30T10:31:00.001+07:00

Maximum performance paired with optimized aerodynamics: TechArt Automobildesign ( www.techart.de ) turns the new Porsche 911 Turbo into one of the world's fastest and most powerful street-legal sports cars. 580 hp / 427 kW, 0 - 100 km/h in 3.46 seconds only and a maximum speed of 339 km/h are the most important performance figures of this car.

The 3.6 liter boxer engine was modified by TechArt in many details. Two bigger turbochargers contribute to the TechArt engine tuning just as the sports air filter and the stainless steel exhaust system with special manifolds and integrated high performance catalysts. All modifications get exactly tuned by the recalibrated ECU.

After the conversion the engine delivers 580 hp / 427 kW at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 700 Nm at 4,850 rpm. Power transmission to all four wheels is made via a modified six-speed manual gearbox with TechArt gearshift travel shortage and additional gearbox-oil cooling. Of course the TechArt engine conversion is also available for cars with Tiptronic transmission.

The coupe tuned by TechArt is one of the world's fastest super sports cars: The two-seater coupe catapults from 0 - 100 km/h in 3.46 seconds. Maximum speed is 339 km/h.

These performance figures make greatest demands on perfectly balanced aerodynamics. The TechArt designers developed bodywork components in the wind tunnel which don't only give the 911 Turbo its distinctive look but especially optimal aerodynamic downforce and a drag coefficient reduced by 4 percent.

The TechArt front spoiler reduces aerodynamic lift by 15 percent. They also moulded a new wing profile for the retractable production rear spoiler which produces 20 percent extra downforce in conjunction with the TechArt rear diffuser. The understated TechArt roof spoiler visually stretches the roofline.

The TechArt side sills give the 911 top-of-the-line model a longer, sleeker look. The side mirrors can be attractively upgraded using the TechArt mirror moldings. The look is rounded out with moldings for the headlights.

Especially for the new Porsche 911 Turbo they developed the striking TechArt Formula five-spoke wheels in size 8.5Jx20 in front and in size 12Jx20 on the rear axle. TechArt recommends ContiSportContact 3 tires in sizes 245/30 ZR 20 and 325/25 ZR 20 for mounting on these wheels.

The TechArt VarioPlus coil-over suspension is available for the electronically adjustable PASM damper system of the new Turbo. This chassis offers not only an individually adjustable ride height by up to 25 millimeters, but also selectable 'Normal' and 'Sport' damper settings at the push of a button on the dashboard.

However, the settings are not limited to these presets. Both settings automatically firm up their damper rates during sporty driving. The result is an optimal symbiosis of excellent ride comfort during leisurely driving and agile, highly responsive handling during fast cornering.

As a world-renowned specialist for exclusive interior creations TechArt Automobildesign also offers individual interiors for the latest 911 top-of-the-line version in all colors and designs.

The 580 hp / 427 kW Turbo was upgraded with an exclusive TechArt CarboBlack leather trim, white cockpit panels matching the car's outside color and further sporty accessories. They include an ergonomically shaped airbag sport steering wheel, foot pedals, foot rest and shift knob all made from aluminum as well as stainless-steel sill plates with TechArt logo.

TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet (2007)

2008-04-30T10:30:00.002+07:00

What is created through passionate precision and with the love of detail emphasises the respect towards an inimitable automobile. Dynamic driving through performance and optimum aerodynamics becomes an experience of the highest art with the TECHART Turbo Cabriolet on the basis of the new Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet. TECHART Automobildesign merges technology and art to produce a complete work.

Functionality and aesthetics are two inseparable components at TECHART Automobildesign. The 3.6 litre Boxer engine is modified in many details at TECHART. Two special turbo chargers, carbon suction pipes and made to measure intercoolers contribute equally to TECHART performance enhancement as the sport air filter and the stainless steel exhaust system with special manifolds and high performance catalytic converters. All modifications are perfectly coordinated using the newly programmed engine management.

Following the individualisation, up to 630 hp / 463 kW and a maximum torque of 820 Nm are available. From 0 - 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 345 km/h, combined with fascinating contours that any enthusiast will immediately notice. The power transmission to all four wheels takes place via a modified six gear manual transmission with TECHART switch path reduction and additional gear oil cooling. Therefore, the cabriolet refined by TECHART is among the fastest super sports cars in the world.

These driving performances place the highest demands in the aerodynamically optimised exterior design. In the wind channel, TECHART developed car body components that lend the TECHART Turbo Cabriolet not only an unmistakable look, but also equally the best possible aerodynamics.

Within this framework, customers can choose between two versions.

The elegant front spoiler of the Aerokit I merges seamlessly with the forms of the bumper and conveys already at first glance pure sportiness. Aerodynamic lateral sills emphasise the stretched side line and lend the flank of the automobile the typical TECHART dynamism. The lowered rear diffuser with additional, lateral air outlets and the entirely redesigned wing profile of the extendable rear spoiler complete the inimitable exterior.

The same applies to the TECHART Aerokit II. The clearly sporty appearance with clear references to the TECHART classic sports car GTstreet cannot be overlooked. Independent Aerokit II front and rear aprons perfect direction of the air masses for an improved inflow of the brakes and the intercooler. At the same time, the buoyant force on the front axle is reduced in connection with the rear spoiler II, while the down force on the rear axle is enhanced additionally.

The electronically adjustable PASM shock absorption system in the new TECHART Turbo Cabriolet is further equipped with the TECHART VarioPlus threaded chassis. This frame not only permits the option of an individually adjustable lowering by up to 25 millimetres, but also the selection of shock absorber settings between "normal" and "sport" at the push of a button in the cockpit. But while driving, one is not restricted to these pre-settings. When driving in a sporting fashion, suspension in both levels automatically gets tighter. This achieves the optimum symbiosis between excellent comfort in normal driving and agile, direct handling when driving fast into the curve.

One of the great arts of TECHART Automobildesign is not only in the name of the refiner - the individual design work turns the full circle of the performance portfolio and mirrors the philosophy of the company. The finest and highest quality leather hides, the extraordinary attention in the creation and processing of the desired interior and the craftsmanship of the TECHART upholstery shop, matured over years, provide customers with the car created specifically for them with the certain nuance of their personal style.

TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet (2007)

2008-04-30T10:30:00.001+07:00

With its 2001 TechArt GTstreet based on the Porsche 911 Turbo of the 996 model series, TechArt Automobildesign created one of the fastest and most powerful street-legal sports cars of its time. The next evolutionary stage of this fascinating concept celebrates is now available: The new TechArt GTstreet, based on the 911 Turbo of the latest 997 series, starts at 245,000 Euros MSRP.

Like the predecessor the new GTstreet edition centers on a powerful engine: The 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat engine is modified by the TechArt engine specialists and now develops 630 hp / 463 kW at 6,800 rpm, up from standard 480 hp / 353 kW. Peak torque increases from 620 Nm to 820 Nm at 4,500 rpm.

The TechArt TA 097/T3 engine conversion comprises two special VTG turbochargers, a new air box with sport air filter, high-performance manifolds, intercoolers and a stainless-steel sport exhaust system with high-performance catalysts. The precise optimal interaction of all modifications is ensured by a newly programmed engine management system.

Power is transferred to all four wheels via a modified transmission with TechArt gear-throw shortening.

Thus equipped the TechArt GTstreet delivers performance that firmly places it among the world's fastest sports cars: 0 - 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds, 200 km/h after just 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 345 km/h speak volumes.

The body kit for the TechArt GTstreet was created in the wind tunnel, and offers an optimal symbiosis of aerodynamic downforce, minimized drag and striking design.

The front fascia of the GTstreet with retractable carbon-fiber splitter produces downforce on the front axle and provides radiator, oil coolers and brakes with more cooling air, thanks to its large, striking air inlets. The auxiliary headlamp units with daytime running lights and fog lamps improve active safety. They also give the car even more passing clout.

The TechArt GTstreet fender flares on the front axle add 10 mm to the two-door's width and give it an even more dynamic appearance. But that's not all: The air outlets behind the front wheel houses optimize brake venting. The larger air ducts in the rear sidewalls provide engine and intercoolers with a larger supply of cooling air. For an optimal transition between front and rear fenders the TechArt designers have developed rocker panels that complement the new contours. TechArt mirror and headlamp moldings provide the finishing touches.

The TechArt roof spoiler extends the roofline and optimizes airflow to the adjustable rear airfoil of the GTstreet.

The TechArt GTstreet rear fascia with integrated carbon-fiber diffuser contributes to the strong downforce generated on the rear axle. It also provides the perfect backdrop for the quad exhaust of the TechArt high-performance exhaust system.

TechArt Automobildesign offers a number of versions of its popular Formula wheel in sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 12Jx20 on the rear axle. GTstreet buyers can choose from several color combinations and between the one-piece Formula and the multi-piece Formula II designs. The Formula II wheel features an exchangeable wheel lip. For optimal tires TechArt chose ContiSportContact 3 high-performance tires in sizes 245/30 ZR 20 and 325/25 ZR 20.

The large 20-inch wheels also provide the necessary space for the especially powerful and durable TechArt high-performance brake system. It features six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 390-millimeter discs on the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with 365-millimeter discs and four-piston fixed calipers.

The TechArt GTstreet comes with a TechArt VarioPlus coil-over suspension that is based on the electronically adjustable PASM damping system of the 911 Turbo. This chassis allows individual ride-height lowering by up to 25 millimeters and push-button selection of two different damper settings, "Normal" or "Sport." However, the dampers are not limited to these presets. Sporty driving automatically results in firmer damper settings in both modes, thus combining excellent ride comfort during normal driving with agile and responsive handling during fast cornering.

The cockpit of the TechArt GTstreet also differs distinctly from the stock 911 Turbo. Among the differences is an exclusive leather interior with color-contrasted stitching and sporty CarboBlack highlights. The coupe is further equipped with an ergonomically shaped TechArt sport steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals, foot rest and shifter, as well as with illuminated door sills sporting the TechArt logo.

TechArt Porsche Carrera GT (2007

2008-04-30T10:29:00.001+07:00

Is it possible to make a Porsche Carrera GT even more sporty and exclusive? Yes it is! TechArt Automobildesign ( www.techart.de ) now customizes one of the rare mid-engine super sports cars for one of its long-time customers.

The TechArt designers have developed aerodynamically efficient custom-tailored body components made from exposed carbon fiber that serve as a visual contrast to the metallic-orange special paint. A new air outlet on the upper half of the front fascia and a one-piece spoiler lip on the lower half give the front of the two-seater an even more dynamic appearance. The low-reaching front spoiler reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds further and thus further optimizes directional stability.

TechArt has also developed a three-piece gurney flap that serves as the aerodynamic counterpart in the rear. The center piece of the separation edge extends together with the pop-up rear wing and in combination with the fixed spoiler edges on the left and right produces additional downforce on the rear axle.

While suspension and tires remain untouched the peripherals of the 5.7-liter V10 engine are upgraded with a TechArt stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system and a modified intake system. Both benefit not only the engine sound that escapes through the two production tailpipes; the modifications also increase maximum power output from 612 hp / 450 kW to some 635 hp / 467 kW.

Further room for improvement of the Carrera GT lay in the cockpit. TechArt customized the interior with an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel with leather/carbon fiber rim, and a shifter made from exposed carbon fiber. Requests for even more exclusive and colorful fully leather interiors are answered by the TechArt upholstery shop.

TechArt Porsche 911 Turbo GTstreet Cabrio (2008)

2008-04-30T10:28:00.002+07:00

Uncompromisingly sporty, unreservedly suitable for everyday use. TECHART is continuing this traditional philosophy with its GTstreet Cabrio. Since 2001, when the Porsche 911 Turbo model from the 996 series was used, vehicles bearing the TECHART GTstreet logo have been among the fastest and highest performing road-worthy sports vehicles in the world.

The new TECHART GTstreet is continuing this impressive trend, based on the current Porsche 911 Turbo generation. At the world premiere on 4th March 2008, this convertible model will stand alongside the GTstreet Coupé, which was officially launched in Geneva in spring 2007 and caused a real sensation.

Unmistakable characteristic appearance and breath-taking performance. The TECHART GTstreet Cabrio now develops 463 kW (630 hp) and can reach a maximum speed of 345 km/h.

Skoda Octavia Combi 4x4 (1999)

2008-04-30T10:28:00.001+07:00

Škoda Octavia

The Škoda Octavia is a medium family car introduced in 1996 by the car manufacturer Škoda.

Mk1 - 1996 to 2004

The first generation Octavia was manufactured from 1996, and was built on the same chassis as the Audi A3 I, VW Golf IV, VW Bora/Jetta IV and SEAT León I.

The first generation Octavia had a facelift in 2001, and is still manufactured and marketed in some markets. In those markets, the first-generation Octavia is still known as Octavia, and the newer model is referred to as the new Octavia. In India, the newer model is marketed as the Laura. In Germany, and other parts of West-Europe, the older model is marketed as the Octavia TOUR, while the newer model is marketed as the Octavia. The major difference between the two is the interior. The newer one had interior that is, most people claim, way better laid out and designed with more sense, and much more resembles VW cars, rather than the dull interior of the old Škodas, that the first model has.

Mk2

A new model was introduced in 2004 -- it is based on the platform also used by VAG cars like Audi A3 II, VW Golf V, VW Golf Plus, VW Touran and VW Passat VI. Along with a new engine range, body changes included more legroom for rear seat passengers (a weak point in the original model) and increased ground clearance at front and rear to reduce the risk of grounding on steep ramps or facing kerbs.

A SUV-version of the Octavia have been annonced (fall 2006) under the name Octavia Scout. The estate version of the Octavia can already be delivered with four wheel drive - using the Haldex-system - which is based on a computer-controlled clutch-based center-differential. The Octavia 4x4 have 24 mm higher ground clearence than the standard version. The Octavia Scout is additional 16 mm higher from the ground than the Octavia 4x4.

Engines

The engines used are the same as for many other cars in the Volkswagen Group. For the 1996-2004-versions of the Octavia, the most common engines are:

1.4 - 75 bhp
1.6 - 75/100/102 bhp (8v)
1.8 - 125 bhp
1.8T - 150 bhp (180 bhp for RS-version)
1.9TDI - 90/100/105/110/115/130 bhp
1.9SDI - 75 bhp
2.0 - 115 bhp
For the second generation Octavia:

1.4 MPI - 75 bhp
1.6 MPI - 102 bhp (8v)
1.6 FSI - 115 bhp
2.0 FSI - 150 bhp
2.0 FSI Turbo - 200 bhp (Octavia RS 2006)
1.9 TDI PD - 105 bhp
2.0 TDI - 140 bhp
2.0 TDI - 170 bhp

Skoda Fabia (2005)

2008-04-30T10:27:00.000+07:00

Škoda Fabia

The Škoda Fabia is a small 5-door hatchback built by Škoda Auto and is the first model to use the VW Group's A00 platform, which it shares with Volkswagen's Polo and SEAT's Ibiza. It replaces the Felicia, which was discontinued in 2001. The car is also available in estate or saloon styles.

The range starts with the 1.2 6v Classic (which is cheaper than Volkwagen's smaller 3-door 1.0 Lupo) to the 1.9 PD TDi vRS.

The Fabia was launched in 2000 with an array of engines, body styles and trims. The Fabia is available in hatchback, estate and saloon models. The hatchback most closely resembles Volkswagen's own Polo, and is by far the most popular model. The estate has proved rather popular in its own right, despite estates based on smaller cars not being globally popular. The saloon variant is a classic three-compartment Limousine with a protruding boot. The saloon is much less popular than the other two body styles, especially in some markets where saloon cars are not popular, such as the United Kingdom. The Fabia will cease to be produced in December 2006

Part of the Fabia's success is the fact that all of its mechanical parts are developed by or in conjunction with Volkswagen, but are offered in a package that is priced to undercut other models in the Volkswagen Group. The only trace of non-VW Skoda left in the Fabia is the 1.4 8v "MPI" Engine, which was a modification to Skoda's own 1.3 engine, and was used in pre-Volkswagen Skodas such as the Favorit.

Later in the Fabia's life the mid-range Comfort Model was dropped for the name Ambiente to fit in with the rest of the range. Other models include and included the Ambiente, Ambiente SE, Blackline, Silverline, Sport, Bohemia (Estate) and vRS. Various safety features and minor changes were made over time. Easy and Junior models are sold in Eastern European markets where budgets are lower. Some of these Fabias do not even have painted bumpers or gloveboxes. Also sold in such markets is the Fabia Praktik, which is a van version of the Fabia with the rear windows and seats removed. A lesser powered version of the 1.4MPI with just 60BHP is also sold in Eastern Europe.

In 2005 the Fabia received a facelift, with changed front fog lights and grille, slightly different rear lights, new steering wheel and revised specification levels. Also the vRS had its final gearbox ratio changed. Most importantly the Sport model was added, with the 75hp 1.4 petrol being offered with a manual transmission. This engine was quickly dropped for the 1.2 HTP, which was not as powerful but is a much more free revving engine giving a more sporty feel, the sport also had its specification changed to include red seat belts and sunset privacy glass from the B Pillar to the rear.

Again in 2006 the Fabia range shown at Geneva along side the new Roomster model will have minor specification revisions. These include a center rear head rest, a central 3 point seatbelt and an additional 4 bodywork colours. The 1.4 16v 75BHP Engine is to be replaced with a more powerful 1.4 16v 79BHP engine.

TechArt Porsche Cayenne (2008)

2008-04-30T10:25:00.000+07:00

TECHART Automobildesign is presenting an extensive technology programme at the IAA 2007 with a brand new individualisation programme for the TECHART SUV on the basis of the Cayenne (model 2008).

Through the Aerodynamic Kit I, the TECHART SUV is given its perfectly formed line with an unmistakeable recognition value. The front spoiler, sill panels and rear diffuser have been revised and lend the TECHART SUV its sporting and elegant look. All chassis parts are manufactured as first fit made of PUR-RIM plastic. The sporty off and on-road vehicle thus receives the dynamic line of the Cayenne Facelift.

The TECHART Sport Module provides the option of lowering the SUV chassis by an impressive 30 millimetres - which simplifies road use and makes it more attractive. The entire adjustment range from the load level to the special terrain level is roughly 110 millimetres.

As an option, the TECHART SUV on the basis of the Cayenne Turbo can be ordered with a performance of up to 620 hp / 456 KW. A carbon cover and individually modified painting of various engine parts round off the engine optic package for this automobile highlight. In terms of tyres and rims, the designers from the House of TECHART leave none of their customers' wishes unfulfilled - the options range from Formula I rims in 10x20 ET 55 with 295/40 ZR 20 or 10x22 ET 55 with 295/30 ZR 22 on front and rear axles through to TECHART Formula II light metal rims in the dimensions 10.5Jx22. As an optimum tyre for the Formula II rims, the enhancers recommend ContiCrossContact UHP tyres in the size 295/30 ZR 22.

The format for the TECHART SUV is not simply characterised by state of the art technological standards, but also by the endless repertoire of countless options for the interior. Exclusive accessories include ergonomically formed sports steering wheels, state of the art multimedia systems or carbon applications for the cockpit in various colour options. More individual wishes can be fulfilled with exclusive TECHART full leather fittings in all conceivable colours and upholstery designs. A particularly precious version is the TECHART interior line de Sede of Switzerland, which is created in cooperation with the Swiss furniture manufactory. The high quality de Sede leather hides, which are processed to produce perfectly crafted covers for seats, door and side panels, instrument panels, roof side members and roof in the in-house TECHART upholstery shop, complete the automobile work of art of the TECHART SUV.

Panoz Esperante Jan Magnussen Edition (2003)

2008-04-24T18:55:00.000+07:00

Panoz Esperante

There are several models of the Esperante: the base model, the GT, the GTLM, the GTS, and the JRD (an aftermarket upgrade brand similar to Roush Mustangs). Additionally, Panoz is more than willing to work with the buyer to make special modifications to any of the stock models. Each model has slightly different stats. The Specs below are for the base model. The GTLM, for example, uses a supercharger to boost power from 305 hp to 420 hp, raising performance from 0-62 in 5 seconds to an amazing 4 seconds. The GTS on the other hand is built as a driver's class spec car, to SCCA standards, with harness, roll cage, side bars, etc. Additionally, it is ~600 lb lighter than the base Esperante, has a steel 5.8 liter V8 racing engine that produces 385 bhp, and is made of easily replacable panels to facilitate small impact race repair. It does 0-60 in 4.2 seconds, and can achieve 0.98 g of lateral grip.

Racing

An Esperante managed to win the GT2 class at the 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is usually dominated by Porsche 911 GT3. The best of the 911s led until the final hour but ran into trouble, finishing one lap behind the Panoz, with a Ferrari F430 ten laps down. Other competitors in that class were two Spyker C8s which showed promising performance, but did not finish, like the second Panoz which managed only 34 laps. Anyway, this success is a remarkable one for the road-going version of Panoz.

Body and chassis

Layout: Front/mid-engine, rear wheel drive, luxury sport convertible
Body: Hand assembled lightweight SPF aluminum.
Chassis: Modular extruded aluminium, bolted and bonded to steel subframes
Engine/Drivetrain

Engine: Hand assembled DOHC, 32-valve, 90-degree, aluminum V8
Displacement: 4,601 cm³
Power: 320 hp (239 kW) @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 315 ft·lbf (427 N·m) @ 4,750 rpm
Compression Ratio: 9.8:1
Bore by stroke: 3.55 by 3.54 in (90.2 by 90.0 mm)
Fuel injection: Sequential electronic
Ignition: Distributorless, coil-on-plug
Transmission: Tremec T45 5-speed manual
Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.37:1 2nd: 1.99:1 3rd: 1.33:1 4th: 1.00:1 5th: 0.67:1
Rev: 3.22:1 Final: 3.27:1
Differential: Limited-slip type, 8.8 inch (224 mm) ring gear, aluminum case
Suspension

Front: Fully independent short-long arm (SLA) double wishbone configuration with gas charged Penske coil-over shock absorbers and anti-roll bar
Rear: Fully independent, double wishbone with horizontally opposed, pushrod-and-rocker activated Penske gas charged coil-over shock absorbers and anti-roll bar.
Wheels: Aluminum BBS, 17 by 9 inches (430 by 230 mm)
Tires: BF Goodrich P255/45ZR17
Brakes

Type: Four-wheel power assisted disc
ABS: Electronic three channel, four sensor
Front: Dual-piston caliper with high-pressure steel braided brake lines and 13 inch (330 mm) vented steel rotor
Rear: Single-piston caliper with 11.7 inch (297 mm) vented steel rotor
Steering

Type Power assisted rack and pinion
Turns lock-to-lock: 2.5
Ratio: 15:1
Dimensions and capacities

Seating Capacity: 2
Wheelbase: 106.0 in (2.713 mm)
Track: front 60.9 in (1.55 m), rear 63.2 in (1.58 m)
Overall Length: 176.3 in (4.478 m)
Overall Width: 73.2 in (1.859 mm)
Overall Height: 53.4 in (1,355.9 m)
Ride Height: 5.0 in (127 mm)
Curb Weight: 3200 lb (1,450 kg)
Fuel Capacity: 15.7 U.S. gal (59.4 L)

Tesla Roadster (2008)

2008-04-24T18:54:00.003+07:00

Style: 2-seat, open-top, rear-drive roadster
Drivetrain: Electric motor with 2-speed electrically-actuated-manual-shift transmission with integral differential
Motor: 3-phase, 4-pole electric motor, 248hp peak (185kW), redline 13,000 rpm, regenerative "engine braking"
Chassis: Bonded extruded aluminum with 4-wheel wishbone suspension
Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
0-60 mph acceleration: under 4 seconds
Top Speed: 125 mph
Range : ~220 miles (based on EPA combined city/highway cycle)
Battery Life: Useful battery, 100,000 miles
Energy Storage System: Custom microprocessor-controlled lithium-ion battery pack
Full Charge: ~3.5h
Suspension

Front: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper unit; anti-roll bar
Rear: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper
Wheels

Type: Forged Light alloy
front: 5.5J x 16
rear: 7.5J x 17
Tires

Type: Yokohama Neova AD07 LTS
front: 175/55 R16
rear: 225/45 R17
Tesla Roadster Dimensions (in. / mm)

Overall length: 155.4 / 3946
Overall width - incl. mirrors: 73.7 / 1873
Overall height (at curb weight): 44.4 / 1127
Wheelbase: 92.6 / 2352
Track - front: 57.6 / 1464
Track - rear: 59.0 / 1499
Curb weight: ~2690 pounds
Leg Room (in./mm): 42.0 / 1067
Front Head Room (in./mm): 36.7 / 932
Front Shoulder Room (in./mm): 26.0 / 660
Tesla Roadster Standard Interior features

Heated sport seats with inflatable lumbar support
Three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel
Smooth leather seats and trim in black, dark gray, light gray, or beige
Blaupunkt stereo sound system with single-disc CD player, iPod interface, and MP3 playback
Cruise Control
Homelink universal transmitter to operate compatible garage, gate, and home lighting/home security systems
Power windows and locks
Air conditioning
Single retractable cup holder
Tesla Roadster Standard Exterior Features

Double-insulated black soft top
Proprietary halogen low- and high-beam headlamp assemblies
LED tail lights
Forged uni-directional seven-spoke wheels in silver finish: 16" front, 17" rear
Locking wheel lugs
Tire Inflator/sealant
Cold weather ESS heater for cold weather charging to -20 degrees Celsius
Home-based charging system with integral safety features for 3.5 hour full re-charge
Tesla Roadster Standard Safety and Security Features

Four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS)
Traction control
Tire pressure monitoring system
Front and rear crumple zones
Driver and passenger front airbags
Rigid occupant safety cell
Side impact door beams
Seatbelt pretensioners
Integrated headrests
Vehicle theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system
PIN for security in operating the vehicle
Valet mode to restrict speed, acceleration, and distance
Tesla Roadster Factory-installed options and accessories

Premium leather seats available in nine colors with embroidered Tesla Motors logo
Microfiber, non-leather seats in black
Bluetooth cellular phone integration
Satellite radio with 170 channels of digital sound
Seven-speaker premium sound system tuned for Tesla Roadster cockpit
Touch-screen navigation system with voice guidance
Matching body-colored carbon fiber hardtop with full headliner
Metallic and premium paint
Tesla Motors custom floor mats
Mobile charging system

Audio & Multimedia
Business
Communications
Desktop
Development
Education
Games & Entertainment
Graphic Apps
Home & Hobby
Network & Internet
Security & Privacy
Servers
System Utilities
Web Development

Smart fortwo cabrio (2007)

2008-04-24T18:54:00.002+07:00

The new smart fortwo - even more smart fortwo

To get straight to the point: the new smart fortwo can do everything that the current model can do - but even better. This means that the new smart fortwo is even more comfortable, even more agile, even safer and even more ecological than its predecessor.

The changed running gear and the slightly larger body make the smart fortwo even more comfortable. The active and passive safety have been further improved. The new drive engineering provides for even more agility and driving fun and also makes the new smart fortwo even more ecological.

The design has been skilfully further developed and gives the new smart fortwo a fresh, more masculine appearance. And yet it retains its unmistakable character: you can always tell a smart fortwo at first sight - by its striking tridion safety cell that is also one of the main safety features, and by the innovative plastic bodypanels that are extremely practical into the bargain.

Engines: powerful, clean, economical

The smart fortwo will be launched in April 2007 with reengineered uprated petrol engines. The three cylinder engine has capacity of one litre and delivers 45 kW, 52 kW or 62 kW (61 bhp, 71 bhp or 84 bhp). The engine power of the smart fortwo cdi has increased by ten percent and now stands at 33 kW (45 bhp).

All engines are linked to an automated manual five-speed transmission from Getrag that has also been reengineered. The petrol versions now have a maximum speed of 145 km/h - 10 km/h more than the predecessor model.

Still smart - inside and out

The dimensions have increased as against the first generation. The 19.5 centimetre increase in length benefits pedestrians, rear impact protection and especially ride comfort.

The luggage compartment can hold 220 litres - 70 litres more than before - and when loaded to the roof there is space for up to 340 litres (a further 80 litres). The new smart fortwo also features the familiar twin-section tailgate. The lower section can be used as a little platform and facilitates loading and unloading.

Like the exterior, it goes without saying that the interior of the smart fortwo remains truly smart. Typical smart characteristics include the external-mounted air vents and additional dials, the large, fabric-covered areas on doors and instrument panel, the safety seats with integral seat belts and last but not least the ignition lock behind the shift lever.

The observer immediately notices that the instrument panel is no longer curved in an S-shape towards the passenger side but is now straight. This is partly to comply with US crash regulations. Nevertheless - and perhaps because of this - the new smart fortwo offers a unique feeling of spaciousness.

Safety at the highest level

The high level of passive safety has been further improved. Internal crash tests have shown that the smart fortwo will be at the level of four EuroNCAP stars.

And that's not all: as the new smart fortwo will be sold in the USA from 2008 it also complies with the strict American crash regulations.

Likewise, new regulations concerning pedestrian protection have been implemented in the front section. Furthermore, new head/thorax side airbags offering extensive protection in the event of a side crash are available as an option.

Exceedingly low consumption

The outstanding economy of the smart fortwo is underlined by further optimisations. Despite the greater engine power, the petrol versions consume less than five litres of fuel over 100 km.

The smart fortwo with a starter generator that will be available from the end of 2007 and will be based on the 52 kW petrol version, promises further savings of up to 13 percent in city traffic.

This has particular advantages when driving in urban areas and frequent stop-and-go traffic: the three-cylinder engine automatically switches off when the car stops at traffic lights, for example. It starts again as soon as the driver presses the accelerator pedal.

The new smart fortwo cdi consumes even less fuel. The diesel engine in the predecessor model already had the lowest consumption of its class and the new smart fortwo also achieves "three litre" status (corresponds to consumption of less than 3.5 litres/100 km under standard conditions) with emissions of just 90 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.

Alternative drives are also possible and the new smart fortwo has been designed to allow for quick implementation of natural gas or electric drive concepts - as soon as there is a demand for these new drive systems and they become economically viable.

smart fortwo cabrio with an electric soft top

The smart fortwo cabrio's electric soft top is a further example of the enhanced comfort. It is now fully automatic and can be infinitely adjusted to any position. This means that the rear part, too, can be opened to the final position and closed again at the touch of a button.

Unique: the smart fortwo doesn't have to be stationary for this - the soft top can be opened and closed at any driving speed. Furthermore, the roof bars can be removed and stowed in a special compartment in the tailgate. The soft top offers further added comfort and safety with the heated rear window made of glass.

Equipment variants pure, pulse and passion, BRABUS variant

The equipment lines continue to go by the names of pure, pulse and passion. Whereas the basic pure version has a plastic roof, the pulse and passion feature a transparent, high-strength panoramic roof made of polycarbonate. Fans of the BRABUS variant also have something to look forward to: the introduction of an uprated BRABUS variant is planned for autumn 2007.

Extensive range of standard equipment and options

The most important standard features include the tridion safety cell, front airbags, seat belts with belt tensioners and belt-force limiters and safety seats with integral seat belts. Further features that are unique in the standard spec of vehicles in this class include esp, abs and an integrated brake assist.

Further excerpts from the long list of standard equipment: H7 headlights featuring projection technology, central locking with radio remote control, folding driver and passenger seat backrests that can be adjusted with a notch lever, an exterior temperature indicator, comfort windscreen wipers with speed-sensitive interval wiping and indicators with lanechanger function.

The smart fortwo can be individualised and tailored to customer requirements with a wide range of extras. These include head/thorax side airbags, air conditioning (standard for passion), electric power steering, heated seats, alloy wheels (standard for pulse and passion), leather seats, Isofix child seat fastener, a high quality audio system with a CD changer for 6 CDs and a sound system featuring a subwoofer and an MP3 interface.

Furthermore, a portable navigation system that can be integrated in the car is available. Voice instructions are given via the loudspeakers of the stereo system. Further options that are often only found in high-end cars include a light and rain sensor and electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors.

Hambach: exemplary modular production and protection of the environment

The smart fortwo is produced in the French town of Hambach. System partners on site deliver pre-assembled modules straight to the production line. The production process has been optimised and the production time reduced from 9.5 hours to 8 hours. The whole final assembly, which only took 4.5 hours for the predecessor model, now takes just 3.5 hours.

Great importance is given to protection of the environment in Hambach. Only water-soluble, solvent-free base coats are used for the smart fortwo's plastic bodypanels.

The tridion safety cell is powder coated and no solvents are needed here, either. The solid colour bodypanels in the colours black, white and yellow are fully recyclable.

Same price level as the previous model

The basic price for the new smart fortwo will stay at the level of the predecessor model. The diesel variant, too, will remain an inexpensive "three litre" car that will continue the great success of its predecessor. Likewise, the new smart fortwo cabrio will continue to be by far the cheapest production cabriolet available worldwide.

Tesla Roadster (2008)

2008-04-24T18:53:00.002+07:00

Tesla Roadster Specifications

Style: 2-seat, open-top, rear-drive roadster
Drivetrain: Electric motor with 2-speed electrically-actuated-manual-shift transmission with integral differential
Motor: 3-phase, 4-pole electric motor, 248hp peak (185kW), redline 13,000 rpm, regenerative "engine braking"
Chassis: Bonded extruded aluminum with 4-wheel wishbone suspension
Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
0-60 mph acceleration: under 4 seconds
Top Speed: 125 mph
Range : ~220 miles (based on EPA combined city/highway cycle)
Battery Life: Useful battery, 100,000 miles
Energy Storage System: Custom microprocessor-controlled lithium-ion battery pack
Full Charge: ~3.5h
Suspension

Front: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper unit; anti-roll bar
Rear: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper
Wheels

Type: Forged Light alloy
front: 5.5J x 16
rear: 7.5J x 17
Tires

Type: Yokohama Neova AD07 LTS
front: 175/55 R16
rear: 225/45 R17
Tesla Roadster Dimensions (in. / mm)

Overall length: 155.4 / 3946
Overall width - incl. mirrors: 73.7 / 1873
Overall height (at curb weight): 44.4 / 1127
Wheelbase: 92.6 / 2352
Track - front: 57.6 / 1464
Track - rear: 59.0 / 1499
Curb weight: ~2690 pounds
Leg Room (in./mm): 42.0 / 1067
Front Head Room (in./mm): 36.7 / 932
Front Shoulder Room (in./mm): 26.0 / 660
Tesla Roadster Standard Interior features

Heated sport seats with inflatable lumbar support
Three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel
Smooth leather seats and trim in black, dark gray, light gray, or beige
Blaupunkt stereo sound system with single-disc CD player, iPod interface, and MP3 playback
Cruise Control
Homelink universal transmitter to operate compatible garage, gate, and home lighting/home security systems
Power windows and locks
Air conditioning
Single retractable cup holder
Tesla Roadster Standard Exterior Features

Double-insulated black soft top
Proprietary halogen low- and high-beam headlamp assemblies
LED tail lights
Forged uni-directional seven-spoke wheels in silver finish: 16" front, 17" rear
Locking wheel lugs
Tire Inflator/sealant
Cold weather ESS heater for cold weather charging to -20 degrees Celsius
Home-based charging system with integral safety features for 3.5 hour full re-charge
Tesla Roadster Standard Safety and Security Features

Four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS)
Traction control
Tire pressure monitoring system
Front and rear crumple zones
Driver and passenger front airbags
Rigid occupant safety cell
Side impact door beams
Seatbelt pretensioners
Integrated headrests
Vehicle theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system
PIN for security in operating the vehicle
Valet mode to restrict speed, acceleration, and distance
Tesla Roadster Factory-installed options and accessories

Premium leather seats available in nine colors with embroidered Tesla Motors logo
Microfiber, non-leather seats in black
Bluetooth cellular phone integration
Satellite radio with 170 channels of digital sound
Seven-speaker premium sound system tuned for Tesla Roadster cockpit
Touch-screen navigation system with voice guidance
Matching body-colored carbon fiber hardtop with full headliner
Metallic and premium paint
Tesla Motors custom floor mats
Mobile charging system

Think city (2008)

2008-04-24T18:53:00.001+07:00

TH!NK city demands very little of you. In fact, not much more than a mobile phone. Just a little overnight power top-up, and it's ready to go in the morning. It can travel up to 170 kilometer (106 miles) on a fully charged battery and all for a fraction of the cost of petrol or diesel. All in all, TH!NK city is a lot less hassle than other cars. You just get in and drive.

Making everyday life simpler

National and local authorities are increasingly making it cheaper and more convenient to drive electric cars. In London the TH!NK city is exempt from the congestion charge. In Italy access to certain city centers is restricted for internal combustion engines but open to electric vehicles. In Norway you can drive TH!NK city through toll booths free of charge and in the special public transport lanes the entire way to work. You don't have to pay car tax every year, either. The authorities will just love you after all, politicians want the same thing as you: to protect the environment. They make it easy for you to drive TH!NK city, because it has no emissions. Did we mention that in many places you don't have to pay for public parking? It's a whole new world. And much simpler. The road is a much friendlier place when you drive TH!NK city. Contact your local authorities and see what incentives they have to make your city cleaner.

Making running a car simpler

TH!NK city is a safe small car, offering driving features that are just perfect for you. Driving a silent car will give you a totally new everyday experience. And because electric motors don't have many moving parts that require servicing, you'll also enjoy the benefit of low operating and maintenance costs. Thanks to the car's unpainted plastic bodywork, the Think City can take the rough and tumble of city life without the usual visible dents and scratches.

Safety

A comprehensive, well-established safety concept makes TH!NK city a very safe car. Behind the wheel, you are protected and secure even if you are involved in a collision. The car is equipped with ABS brakes, airbags and three-point safety belts with pretensioners. The frame is designed to absorb energy and distribute it away from the passenger cell. Even the dashboard and knee padding have been developed to absorb impact. To further protect the driver and passengers, both doors have side impact bars and pusher blocks made of shockabsorbent materials. The ceiling, the front beam above the windscreen, and much of the interior are upholstered with shock absorbent foam.

Design

The combination of a smart choice of materials, clever details and a focus on clean lines and surfaces have made the TH!NK city a prize-winning Norwegian design. The powerful shoulder line and well-defined wheel arches give the car a stance that clearly highlights its superior road handling and excellent driving features. The side indicator lights prominently placed on the wheel arches add innovative looks to exemplary functionality. TH!NK city's body is made of recyclable ABS plastic, designed for city driving, ideal for anyone wanting to avoid visible scratches and irritating little dents.

The car's interior is designed to offer the driver a pleasant environment, where the emphasis is on providing a clear view of the traffic. The interior has a feeling of space, with instruments that are easy to read. Form, quite simply, follows function. For instance, you can sit in complete comfort with your seat in the perfect position to allow you to quickly get in and out of the car during your busy daily schedule. The glass rear hatch allows you to see right down to the bumper of the car behind you when reversing. This means you can now parallel park with accuracy and control.

Designed with the environment in mind

Engineers, developers, buyers and designers have focused on the same thing: clean recyclable materials, non-polluting production processes, and the best possible use of materials. All this gives you a clean car. For example, the dashboard can be completely recycled. The fabric, body, supports, air ducts, adhesives and fixings are designed using the same recyclable materials. We have also used materials that have already been recycled wherever we could. 16% of TH!NK city is actually made from recycled materials.The plastic bodywork and other plastic panels have not been painted. This has enabled us to protect the environment from pollutants and use less energy, while also making the panels easier to recycle. Even the batteries are returned to the supplier at the end of their useful life.

Drive three times as far on the same amount of energy

A conventional car with an internal combustion engine - either petrol or diesel - uses less than 30% of its energy in getting to its destination. The remainder is lost to friction and heat. In a TH!NK city, 90% of the energy is channeled directly into getting you to your destination. In other words, its energy efficiency is three times higher than that of a car with an internal combustion engine. So, you can drive three times further for the same amount of energy. That's an energy saving proposition worth thinking about.

Thinking globally

The most environmentally friendly electricity comes from renewable energy sources, such as hydro-electric power. If you don't have an agreement with a power supplier who can guarantee you clean power, you risk using energy from non-renewable sources. To compensate for this, Think will pay for carbon offset certificates for the portion of your electricity that generates CO2 emissions.

Acting locally

TH!NK city has zero tailpipe emissions. In fact, it doesn't have a tailpipe. No CO2 emissions. No NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions. No particle emissions. This makes your local environment a cleaner place to live.

Specifications

Number of seats 2 (2 rear seats incl 3-point seat belts as an optional extra)
Number of doors 3 including rear hatch
Length 3120 mm
Width 1604 mm
Height 1548 mm
Turning radius 4,5 m
Net wehicle weight 1113 kg
Total weight 1397 kg
Load capacity 284 kg
Top speed 100 km/h
Acceleration 0-50 km/h 6.5 seconds
Acceleration 0-80 km/h 16.0 seconds
Gradient 30% from stationary
5% gradient 300 seconds at constant 90 km/h
Range IEC 170 km (summer tires, heater off)
Range FUDS 180 km (summer tires, heater off)
Range EU UDC 203 km
Typical charge time:
0-100% SOC (state of charge) approx. 10 hours, 230 VAC / 14A
0-80% SOC (state of charge) approx. 8 hours, 230 VAC / 14A
STANDARD EQUIPMENT

2 front airbags
Disable key for passenger airbag
ABS brakes
Regenerative brakes
Power steering
4 kW electric heater
Electric windows and mirrors
2 loudspeakers and aerial
Central locking
Mindbox
EXTRA EQUIPMENT

Pre-heat timer
Electrically heated windscreen
Full length sunroof
Radio CD
Radio with MP3
Radio CD with MP3, USB, Bluetooth
Winter tyres
Alloy wheels
Steel wheels
Roof rack
2+2 seats (including 3-point seat belts)

Think city (2008)

2008-04-24T18:52:00.000+07:00

Think city (2008)

2008-04-24T18:50:00.003+07:00

Think city (2008)

2008-04-24T18:50:00.002+07:00

Tramontana Tramontana (2007)

2008-04-24T18:50:00.001+07:00

It has never been seen in the automotive history a street sports car which resembles so much a Formula 1 like the Tramontana does. It is the first time in the sports car market that it has been incorporated a 100 % carbon fibre monocoque chassis inspired in the design of a Formula 1 and manufactured with the same criteria, guaranteeing a high protection for its passengers. Moreover, it introduces a new structural system that combines an indeformable central zone (cockpit) with a weight of 128kg with other 8 deformable zones calculated for the absorption of the impact energy. In fact, the results extracted of the Crash Test (according to the FIA regulation) confirm that the structural calculation guarantees the integrity of its passengers displacing the lateral components toward the outside. This shows the high impact resistance of the carbon fibre used in the vehicle.

On the other hand, this monocoque, especially developed for the Tramontana, contributes a lightness and maximum rigidity to the whole, factor that together with its suspension system, unique on its market of double wishbones with pushrod and a great length of arms, improves the dynamical aptitudes of the vehicle. All this elaborated with materials of last generation of aerospace technology like the steel to the cromolibdenium, magnesium and duraluminium. Without doubt in the Tramontana the efficiency of the geometry and the weight has been tested, obtaining as result an unequalled performance.

The structure of the monocoque carried out in carbon fibre offers a high torsion resistance, which makes the driver feel like going on a rail.

In the assembly process have been adopted handcraft techniques like the obsession by pre-impregnate and cured in autoclave to 120 ºC, that provides an exceptional finish level and makes the construction of light and strong pieces easier.

Engine, from the competition to the asphalt

Among the final solutions of the Tramontana, we find a new electronic system and a central gasoline engine V12 Biturbo capable to offer a power from 550 Hp to 720 Hp, selectable through a switch situated in the dashboard.

Associated to a 6-speed gearbox, specially developed for the Tramontana, this 12 cylinders propeller in V reaches the 720 Hp to 5.750rpm with a maximum pair torque of 920nm at 4.000rpm. The result, 345 km/h of top speed and 3,7 seconds to reach the 100 km/h from stopped departure.

The weight-power relation is elevated to the 1,7 Kg/Hp, significant data that allow us to discover the kind of sensations that this fantastic assembly of chassis and engine can offer us.

The development of the electronic switchboard is made to measure, in a craft process of more than 2000 hours, that includes full silver wiring and a power map capable to obtain the maximum performance of the engine. Moreover, for the first time in a street car, lifelong relays, fuses and protections have been replaced by a module with just one connector that has only one terminal that brings together all the functions of a conventional device. This innovative system has reduced the wiring, the complexities of the consoles of relays and the fuses, avoiding any electromechanical deterioration.

Car body, beauty and functionality

Without doubt, the design of the Tramontana combines the curves of a fighter with a narrow front and a wider rear of big dimensions and finished in first quality leather and wood imported of the classics of the Spanish automotive industry. This aesthetics remains totally clear thanks to the design of the hardtop, which covers and protects the passengers, and to the rear and front spoilers, in the form of an airplane wing, that assures a great beauty and an excellent support at the same time. In short, a perfect harmony between sensuality, fine materials and elegant lines, an authentic jewel for the collectors.

All the pieces of the Tramontana car body are also elaborated in carbon fibre, assuring the maximum lightness of the vehicle with a total weight of 1.250 kg.

Thanks to the dynamic study carried out by a.d. Tramontana, the pieces that form part of the car body have been created by considering its functionality and the important vehicle performance.

The result is some compacted forms, an expressive front and a suggestive aerodynamic outline with a marked silhouette. Everything in the Tramontana transmits force, character, personality and, above all, sportsmanship, nevertheless the new model is a worthy heir of the sports tradition of the Formula 1.

Suspensions, balance between sportsmanship and comfort

One of the key items of the Tramontana is its system of suspensions of double wishbones with push-rod and its great length of arms, elaborated with a sort of steel of aeronautical and competition specifications of the latest generation.

Two special programs have been used for the development, which have permitted the static and dynamic simulation of the whole vehicle. Different defined adjustments in theoretical calculations have been projected and experienced on it in order to analyze the performance before proceeding to the validation and arriving this way to the definition of the suspensions rates. Finally, a.d. Tramontana has bet on a suspension system that provides a better control, driving comfort, smaller oscillation and better speed cornering, due to the distance between axes, identical to that of a Formula 1.

In the same way, the Tramontana has a system of double electronic height regulation especially developed for the Tramontana, which allows the driver to raise or to lower the height of the vehicle according to the driving needs. It has been looked for a balance between the performance of a street car (at 130mm) and a sports car (at 85mm) considering the different driving styles.

Aerodynamics, the exigency of the geometry

The engineers team from a.d.Tramontana has worked very hard to find the maximal exigency and perfection regarding the aerodynamic performance of the Tramontana, an aesthetical reasoning as similar as possible to a Formula 1.

The aerodynamic performance is though to great speed cornering and, at the same time, get a minimum air penetration coefficient Cx=0,4.

The air intakes and cooling of the motor they have been designed with the objective to minimize the friction of the air and to optimize the performance of the motor.

Moreover, the vehicle has a laminated sheet situated under the vehicle, that eliminates turbulences and improves the drag.

In the same way, the wishbones, designed in the form of drop of water, they help to minimize this coefficient. In fact, all the external elements that stand out from the vehicle are thought to obtain the minimum air resistance. This is the reason of the airplane wing profile of the wishbones.

The front spoilers offer a higher lift compared with the rear ones to avoid loss direction sensations. In this sense, there is an important work to obtain a ground effect thanks to the air flow that penetrates in the lower part of the vehicle. This generates a negative lift toward the ground, making driving to high speeds easier.

Finally, another remarkable factor, has been the study to situate the centre of gravity of the Tramontana as low as possible to increase the cornering speed.

Tramontana Tramontana (2007)

2008-04-24T18:49:00.002+07:00

a.d.TRAMONTANA presents its first production model at the Geneva Motor Show 2007

Chassis, 100% carbon fibre

It has never been seen in the automotive history a street sports car which resembles so much a Formula 1 like the Tramontana does. It is the first time in the sports car market that it has been incorporated a 100 % carbon fibre monocoque chassis inspired in the design of a Formula 1 and manufactured with the same criteria, guaranteeing a high protection for its passengers. Moreover, it introduces a new structural system that combines an indeformable central zone (cockpit) with a weight of 128kg with other 8 deformable zones calculated for the absorption of the impact energy. In fact, the results extracted of the Crash Test (according to the FIA regulation) confirm that the structural calculation guarantees the integrity of its passengers displacing the lateral components toward the outside. This shows the high impact resistance of the carbon fibre used in the vehicle.

On the other hand, this monocoque, especially developed for the Tramontana, contributes a lightness and maximum rigidity to the whole, factor that together with its suspension system, unique on its market of double wishbones with pushrod and a great length of arms, improves the dynamical aptitudes of the vehicle. All this elaborated with materials of last generation of aerospace technology like the steel to the cromolibdenium, magnesium and duraluminium. Without doubt in the Tramontana the efficiency of the geometry and the weight has been tested, obtaining as result an unequalled performance.

The structure of the monocoque carried out in carbon fibre offers a high torsion resistance, which makes the driver feel like going on a rail.

In the assembly process have been adopted handcraft techniques like the obsession by pre-impregnate and cured in autoclave to 120 ºC, that provides an exceptional finish level and makes the construction of light and strong pieces easier.

Engine, from the competition to the asphalt

Among the final solutions of the Tramontana, we find a new electronic system and a central gasoline engine V12 Biturbo capable to offer a power from 550 Hp to 720 Hp, selectable through a switch situated in the dashboard.

Associated to a 6-speed gearbox, specially developed for the Tramontana, this 12 cylinders propeller in V reaches the 720 Hp to 5.750rpm with a maximum pair torque of 920nm at 4.000rpm. The result, 345 km/h of top speed and 3,7 seconds to reach the 100 km/h from stopped departure.

The weight-power relation is elevated to the 1,7 Kg/Hp, significant data that allow us to discover the kind of sensations that this fantastic assembly of chassis and engine can offer us.

The development of the electronic switchboard is made to measure, in a craft process of more than 2000 hours, that includes full silver wiring and a power map capable to obtain the maximum performance of the engine. Moreover, for the first time in a street car, lifelong relays, fuses and protections have been replaced by a module with just one connector that has only one terminal that brings together all the functions of a conventional device. This innovative system has reduced the wiring, the complexities of the consoles of relays and the fuses, avoiding any electromechanical deterioration.

Car body, beauty and functionality

Without doubt, the design of the Tramontana combines the curves of a fighter with a narrow front and a wider rear of big dimensions and finished in first quality leather and wood imported of the classics of the Spanish automotive industry. This aesthetics remains totally clear thanks to the design of the hardtop, which covers and protects the passengers, and to the rear and front spoilers, in the form of an airplane wing, that assures a great beauty and an excellent support at the same time. In short, a perfect harmony between sensuality, fine materials and elegant lines, an authentic jewel for the collectors.

All the pieces of the Tramontana car body are also elaborated in carbon fibre, assuring the maximum lightness of the vehicle with a total weight of 1.250 kg.

Thanks to the dynamic study carried out by a.d. Tramontana, the pieces that form part of the car body have been created by considering its functionality and the important vehicle performance.

The result is some compacted forms, an expressive front and a suggestive aerodynamic outline with a marked silhouette. Everything in the Tramontana transmits force, character, personality and, above all, sportsmanship, nevertheless the new model is a worthy heir of the sports tradition of the Formula 1.

Suspensions, balance between sportsmanship and comfort

One of the key items of the Tramontana is its system of suspensions of double wishbones with push-rod and its great length of arms, elaborated with a sort of steel of aeronautical and competition specifications of the latest generation.

Two special programs have been used for the development, which have permitted the static and dynamic simulation of the whole vehicle. Different defined adjustments in theoretical calculations have been projected and experienced on it in order to analyze the performance before proceeding to the validation and arriving this way to the definition of the suspensions rates. Finally, a.d. Tramontana has bet on a suspension system that provides a better control, driving comfort, smaller oscillation and better speed cornering, due to the distance between axes, identical to that of a Formula 1.

In the same way, the Tramontana has a system of double electronic height regulation especially developed for the Tramontana, which allows the driver to raise or to lower the height of the vehicle according to the driving needs. It has been looked for a balance between the performance of a street car (at 130mm) and a sports car (at 85mm) considering the different driving styles.

Aerodynamics, the exigency of the geometry

The engineers team from a.d.Tramontana has worked very hard to find the maximal exigency and perfection regarding the aerodynamic performance of the Tramontana, an aesthetical reasoning as similar as possible to a Formula 1.

The aerodynamic performance is though to great speed cornering and, at the same time, get a minimum air penetration coefficient Cx=0,4.

The air intakes and cooling of the motor they have been designed with the objective to minimize the friction of the air and to optimize the performance of the motor.

Moreover, the vehicle has a laminated sheet situated under the vehicle, that eliminates turbulences and improves the drag.

In the same way, the wishbones, designed in the form of drop of water, they help to minimize this coefficient. In fact, all the external elements that stand out from the vehicle are thought to obtain the minimum air resistance. This is the reason of the airplane wing profile of the wishbones.

The front spoilers offer a higher lift compared with the rear ones to avoid loss direction sensations. In this sense, there is an important work to obtain a ground effect thanks to the air flow that penetrates in the lower part of the vehicle. This generates a negative lift toward the ground, making driving to high speeds easier.

Finally, another remarkable factor, has been the study to situate the centre of gravity of the Tramontana as low as possible to increase the cornering speed.

TVR Sagaris (2004)

2008-04-24T18:49:00.001+07:00

The TVR Sagaris is a sports car designed and built by the British manufacturer TVR in their factory in Lancashire.

Featuring an all-new design, the Sagaris made its debut appearance at the MPH03 Auto Show in 2003. The final production model was then shown at the 2004 Birmingham Motorshow. Later that year, it was released for public sale at TVR dealerships around the world. Based on the TVR T350, the Sagaris was designed with endurance racing in mind. Several design features of the production model lend themselves to TVR's intentions to use the car for such racing. The multitude of air vents, intake openings and other features on the bodywork allow the car to be driven for extended periods of time on race tracks with no modifications required for cooling and ventilation.

The car's name derives from the sagaris, a lightweight battle-axe used by the Scythians which was feared for its ability to penetrate the armor of their enemies. The car was designed by Graham Browne.

Specifications

Engine

Engine: TVR Speed Six engine, Straight-6
Engine size: 3996 cc (4.0L)
Power Output: 400 bhp (298 kW) @ 7000 rpm
Torque Output: 349 lbf.ft (451 Nm) @ 5000 rpm
Valvetrain setup: 4 valves per cylinder, Dual Overhead Cam
Transmission

Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Suspension

Front: Independent,double wishbones, coil-over gas dampers, sway bars
Rear: Independent, double wishbones, coil-over gas dampers, sway bars
Brakes

Front: 322 mm ventilated disc brakes
Rear: 298 mm ventilated disc brakes
Wheels

Wheels: 18 in aluminum alloy wheels
Chassis/body

Body Panels: Carbon fiber
Weight: 2513 lb (1140 kg)
Performance

Top speed: 190 mph (310 km/h) estimated
0 to 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.6 seconds

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.

TVR T350C (2003)

2008-04-24T18:48:00.004+07:00

TVR Sagaris (2004)

2008-04-24T18:48:00.003+07:00

Valmet Thunderbird Glass Roof Concept (2003)

2008-04-24T18:48:00.001+07:00

Valmet Thunderbird Glass Roof Concept (2003)

2008-04-24T18:47:00.001+07:00

Vauxhall VXR8 (2007)

2008-04-24T18:46:00.002+07:00

Motoring enthusiasts across Britain mourned the passing of the Monaro. The only Australian-built car to be sold in the UK offered raw and exciting performance thanks to its 6.0-litre V8 and rear-wheel drive set up.

But the thunder from down under hasn't stopped yet - in fact it's only going to get louder. Vauxhall has announced the arrival of a new Aussie musclecar - the VXR8 - and it's more powerful and exciting than even the legendary Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions to the engine have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 420PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's price.

Yet the VXR8, based on Australia's Holden HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the outgoing Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Although practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

And VXR8 goes as well as it stops, too, with powerful 365mm front disc brakes that slow the car down from 60mph to a standstill faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5.

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox. In order to maintain the control which VXR buyers require, the optional £1,400 self-shifter has a manual override and a sport setting which ensure the performance isn't blunted - in fact the auto is only half a second slower to 60mph than the manual!

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance. As all fast car fans know, Aussie rules.......

Vauxhall Corsa 5-door (2007)

2008-04-24T18:46:00.001+07:00

A new version of the Gamma platform has been codeveloped by Fiat and Opel. It will be used by the 2006 Fiat Grande Punto (a stretched version of the Fiat Punto), 2007 Opel Corsa and future versions of Lancia Ypsilon and Fiat Idea. GM Daewoo will take responsibility for future development of the Gamma platform, so the production of the future Corsa might be outsourced to South Korea as well. The first official pictures of the 2007 Corsa were released by Opel in May 2006. Based on the photos of the Corsa, it is very likely that the 3-door and 5-door versions will remain. This car will also be sold as a Vauxhall in the UK.

Vauxhall Corsa 3-door (2007)

2008-04-24T18:45:00.004+07:00

Vauxhall Antara (2007)

2008-04-24T18:45:00.003+07:00

The Opel Antara is a mid-size crossover SUV, which is based on General Motors' Theta platform. It is closely related to the Chevrolet Captiva (made in Korea by GM Daewoo, also sold as the Daewoo Winstorm), and shares the engine lineup with it, but has a different exterior and interior, as well as different exterior dimensions. The Antara is scheduled to be launched towards the end of 2006. In the UK, the model will be sold as Vauxhall Antara.

Engines

2.0 L turbodiesel I4, 150 hp (112 kW) (developed with VM Motori) - 5-speed manual
2.4 L Ecotec I4, 142 hp (106 kW) (from Holden) - 5-speed manual
3.2 L Alloytec V6, 225 hp (168 kW) (from Holden) - ActiveSelect automatic

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.

Vauxhall Vectra VXR Estate (2006)

2008-04-24T18:45:00.001+07:00

Introduced in the summer of 2002, the current model, the Vectra C, is built in Germany, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, and is based on the GM Epsilon platform. It is also assembled in Egypt, along with the two previous versions. A four-door sedan is the staple model, while the five-door hatchback, known as the Vectra GTS, is meant to recall cult models from Opel in the past such as the Commodore GTE of the 1970s.

Engine range was substantially modified to account for the more sporty GTS model (and an increased curb weight). While a 122 PS (90 kW) 1.8 Ecotec engine was the base model, a 2.0 L turbocharged engine with 175 PS (129 kW) and a new 3.2 L V6, with 211 PS (155 kW) was also offered. Diesel power, now important for commercial success in Europe, was first provided by Isuzu (a 3.0 L V6 is still retained), but the four-cylinder diesel engines were replaced by Fiat-designed units with 1.9 L, capable of 150 PS (110 kW), in 2004.

The Vectra received a facelift near the end of 2005, and the V6 engine was replaced by an Australian-built 2.8 V6 Turbo unit, similar to the one used in the Saab 9-3. More importantly, Holden introduced, for the first time, an OPC (VXR in the UK) version the Vectra, available only in the hatchback and estate bodies. Power on the Saab V6 Turbo was increased to 255 PS (188 kW), and maximum speed falls short of 250 km/h (155 mph).

In the UK, the hatchback is not considered a specialty model. In Australasia, the rebadged Holden Vectra ZC is considered more upmarket, though not to the same extent as in Europe. A station wagon version, called the Caravan in Germany, was released in 2003.

Interestingly, the same platform that underpins this Vectra also underpins the Saab 9-3 (Sweden) and the current Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura (North America).

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.

Vauxhall Astra VXR (2005)

2008-04-24T18:44:00.001+07:00

The Opel Astra is a small family car produced by Opel, a subsidiary of General Motors. It is badged an Opel in continental Europe, the Republic of Ireland, the Middle East, North Africa, South Africa and India; Vauxhall in the United Kingdom, Holden in Australasia, and Chevrolet in Latin America. In Russia, it is sold as both an Opel and a Chevrolet.

The Astra is now built in Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, India, Poland and Russia, as well as being assembled in CKD (completely knocked-down) kits in other countries. It competes mainly against the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

Naming convention

As of 2006, there have been three generations of the vehicle. In a fashion typical for Opel models, they are designated with subsequent letters of the Latin alphabet. Opel's official convention is to continue the Opel Kadett lineage, thus referring to the first generation of Opel Astra as the Astra F (the last Opel Kadett was the Kadett E). Another convention used by GM starts with Astra A, adopting the notion that the Astra is a separate model. Models sold as Vauxhall, Holden or Chevrolet have different generation designations reflecting the history of those nameplates in their home markets and their naming conventions.

Astra G

The Astra G was launched in Europe in 1998. It was available as a 3 and 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon and two special versions: the Astra Coupé and the Astra Cabrio, both of them designed and built by Bertone. The biggest innovation is the introduction of a natural gas-powered engine. Its chassis was tuned by Lotus and formed the base of a seven-seater compact MPV, the Opel Zafira.

In some markets, such as Australia and New Zealand, the Polish-built Astra G was sold as the Astra Classic alongside the Astra H, as a rival to South Korean imports. It has now been replaced by the Daewoo Lacetti, but has been re-badged as the Holden Viva. It currently continues as the Chevrolet Astra in Latin America. In 2004, GM-AvtoVAZ, GM's joint venture with VAZ, launched the Chevrolet Viva, a four-door version of the Astra G.

Astra H

GM Europe launched Astra H at the end of 2003 and early 2004, depending on the market. Based on the then-new Delta platform, its size was increased, the engines improved and the styling and interior made distinctly more dynamic. Handling was further improved with each engine provided with its own Lotus-tuned suspension settings. It is so far available as a five-door hatchback, a five-door Caravan estate and a sporty three-door hatchback, designated the GTC for European markets, Sport Hatch in the UK and the Coupé in Australia. The GTC has the option of a panoramic windscreen (unique for a production car at the time of its launch) which extends into the roof area.

A first for any major European car is the availability of digital radio on some versions of the new Astra, while for the Astra product class first are electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting). In 2005, the new Opel Astra Diesel Hybrid appeared. By the end of 2005, estate and coupé versions were also launched.

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.

Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch (2005)

2008-04-24T18:43:00.002+07:00

Vauxhall Astra Estate (2005)

2008-04-24T18:43:00.001+07:00

Vauxhall Astra 5-door (2005)

2008-04-24T18:41:00.000+07:00

Vauxhall Monaro VXR (2004)

2008-04-24T18:37:00.001+07:00

Commodore Coupé show car was shown at the Sydney Motor Show in 1998. Journalists quickly christened it the Monaro, encouraging Holden to build it. The show car was designed for production and by 2001, the V2 series Monaro was launched after General Motors spent a mere A$60 million over a brief 22-month gestation (although 12 to 18 were targeted). It was available in CV6 (production ceased in mid 2004)and CV8 models with a supercharged 3.8 L V6 and a 5.7 L Gen III V8, choice of a 6 speed manual or 4 speed automatic, and soon to be known as one of the fastest stock cars in the world. A series 2 model debuted in early 2003 with a revised dashboard from the VY series Commodore, a new wheel design and some colours dropped and new ones added. The CV6 model was dropped after disappointing sales (reputedly 10 times as many were built as CV8s) when a Series 3 model appeared in 2004.

A HSV version (not called Monaro but Coupe) in 'GTO' (255-297 kW) and 'GTS' (300 kW tuned by Callaway) versions debuted soon after the "series 1" Monaro editions, with higher output 5.7 L engines and unique body kits. Later the 'GTS' version was dropped but a four-wheel drive version called 'Coupe4' appeared. Two special edition CV8-R Monaros were released, the first in a grey colour and the second in a more muted red. Each had special wheels and other distinguishing features.

The hottest Monaro was the HRT 427 (Holden Racing Team 427ci) this was a supercar version of the Monaro built by HSV, this car used the 427 ci (7 Litre) C5R Chevrolet racing engine modified by HRT and HSV to suit the Aussie coupe. The HRT 427 had two seats, a semi roll cage, race suspension, racing brakes and ram air induction as well as other things. This supercar was quicker than a Ferarri 360 Modena and Lamborghini Gallardo. It had 420 Kw and could sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under 4 seconds. Unfortunately, to the disappointment of Holden fans it was killed off due to high prices. However a GT racecar version of the HRT 427 went on to win the 2002 and 2003 Bathurst 24 hour against many world class race cars including Porsche GT3's, the British Mosler MT900R, the Ferarri GT Modena and the Lamborghini GT Racecar. Proving it really could have been a world beating car. The second win was also Holden touring car legend Peter Brock's 10th endurance race win at Bathurst, an amazing achievement for a 60 year old. Had the HRT 427 road car been built it would probably have the same heroic status as the other famous aussie supercar (of its time) the Falcon GT HO Phase III.

Most recently, the current Monaro has been exported to overseas markets. It is sold, in left hand drive, in the Middle East as the Chevrolet Lumina Coupe, and in the United States as the Pontiac GTO, reviving another classic muscle car icon. It is also sold in the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall Monaro where it won Top Gear's best muscle car award.

Complaints about the Pontiac GTO's sedate styling from American consumers saw the addition of two bonnet scoops in 2005, with the VZ series Monaro, to recall the later muscle-car variants of the late 1960s' models. The bonnet scoops serve no functional purpose. In the eyes of the Australian press, the scoops have spoiled the lines, while the American media seem to accept them. The 2005 and 2006 GTO also received a Gen IV 6.0 L engine putting out 400 hp (298 kW); the Australian HSV GTO coupe got a similar engine in its Z series.

Holden's PR says that the scoops recall the HT Monaro.

Third generation Monaro production finished on December 13, 2005. The last Pontiac GTO was produced with little fanfare on June 17, 2006. HSV GTO coupes may also continue longer than the Monaro itself. Like the earlier CV8-R models CV8-Zs had extra features including a metallic orange colour, special wheels and a sunroof as standard; the same price was charged for the CV8-Zs as the prior VZ CV8s.

The last ever Monaro was purchased by Emerald, Queensland businessman Darryl Mattingley for $AUD187,355.55 - around three times the normal retail price. The car was bought through eBay, with the money going to the Leukemia Foundation, setting an Australian eBay record for highest price to date in the process. Mattingley, a huge Ford collector, has stated that his only Holden will not be registered, but will make appearances at auto shows

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.

Vauxhall Agila (2004)

2008-04-24T18:36:00.000+07:00

Vauxhall Agila

The Agila, badged either as an Opel in Europe or as a Vauxhall in the UK, is a city car built in Poland, with sales commencing in summer 2000.

It was a rebadged version of the Suzuki Wagon R, which was produced in Japan. The Agila's Opel-sourced 1.0 L and 1.2 L gasoline engines were smaller than the European-market 1.3 L found in the European-market Wagon R, but were more powerful and refined. Equipment levels, low asking prices and running costs also contributed towards the Agila's success.

The Agila is built at the General Motors Manufacturing Poland factory in Gliwice, Poland. The Suzuki Wagon R was built at the Suzuki plant in Hungary until 2004, and since early 2005 has also been built in Poland.

While many European city cars (Ford Ka, Volkswagen Lupo, Fiat Seicento and Renault Twingo) come with just three doors, the Agila came with five. It is as tall as Korean city cars such as the Hyundai Atos and Kia Picanto.

Vauxhall VX Lightning Concept (2003)

2008-04-24T18:34:00.000+07:00

Vauxhall VX220 Turbo (2003)

2008-04-24T18:31:00.000+07:00

Vauxhall VX220

The Vauxhall VX220 is a mid engined, targa-topped, 2-seater introduced in early 2001. It was built for GM, along with the left hand drive version (the Opel Speedster), at the Lotus Cars, Hethel, Norfolk plant in England alongside the Lotus Elise S2. It was based on the Elise chassis, modified to accept the GM engine in preference to the K-series Rover engine used by the Elise. It carried the internal model identification Lotus 116 and the code name Lotus Skipton.

The normally aspirated version used the Astra 2.2 L Ecotec L61 engine giving 147 hp (110 kW) in a car weighing 870 kg. The Turbo model, introduced in 2003, used the 2.0 L Ecotec LSJ engine, producing 200 hp (149 kW) but weighing 930 kg. A final version, the track-oriented VXR220, based on the turbo model, was tuned to give around 220 hp (164 kW) and used Lotus-style 16 in (406 mm) front wheels that allowed the fitment of special sports tyres to gain better road holding.

The car was hailed by the motoring press as a great drivers' car and won several accolades, with the 2.2 NA (normally aspirated) version being the better handling of the two standard variants. Some journalists recommended that this version was better value for money than the Lotus.

Production ended in 2005.

Vauxhall Meriva (2003)

2008-04-24T18:30:00.001+07:00

Vauxhall Meriva

The Opel Meriva is a mini MPV based on the platform of the third generation Opel Corsa and sold under that name on all of the European markets with the exception of the UK, where it's called the Vauxhall Meriva. It's also sold in Mexico and Argentina under the name Chevrolet Meriva. It is built in Brazil by General Motors do Brasil and in Zaragoza, Spain by Opel. It first appeared in late 2002.

The Meriva is available with petrol and turbodiesel engines ranging from 1.3 L to 1.8 L, with power going from 70 PS (51 kW) to 125 PS (92 kW). The base model is also available with an Easytronic (sequential manual) transmission.

Like its bigger sibling, the Zafira, the Meriva has a flexible interior, named FlexSpace. Although it only has five seats in two rows, the second row can be moved forward and backwards, or pushed into the floor, making a straight platform for increased boot space. The second row can accommodate 2 or 3 passengers. In the 2-passenger mode, the seats are separated from the doors and from each other much like the front seats. In 3-passenger mode the back seat looks like a regular one piece seat. The front seat can be pushed fully backwards while the rear passengers can still get more than a decent amount of leg room. It has a generous trunk that can be further extended pushing the back seats into the floor.

Vauxhall VX220 (2002)

2008-04-24T18:28:00.000+07:00

Vauxhall VX220
Vauxhall VX220 (2002)
The Vauxhall VX220 is a mid engined, targa-topped, 2-seater introduced in early 2001. It was built for GM, along with the left hand drive version (the Opel Speedster), at the Lotus Cars, Hethel, Norfolk plant in England alongside the Lotus Elise S2. It was based on the Elise chassis, modified to accept the GM engine in preference to the K-series Rover engine used by the Elise. It carried the internal model identification Lotus 116 and the code name Lotus Skipton.

The normally aspirated version used the Astra 2.2 L Ecotec L61 engine giving 147 hp (110 kW) in a car weighing 870 kg. The Turbo model, introduced in 2003, used the 2.0 L Ecotec LSJ engine, producing 200 hp (149 kW) but weighing 930 kg. A final version, the track-oriented VXR220, based on the turbo model, was tuned to give around 220 hp (164 kW) and used Lotus-style 16 in (406 mm) front wheels that allowed the fitment of special sports tyres to gain better road holding.

The car was hailed by the motoring press as a great drivers' car and won several accolades, with the 2.2 NA (normally aspirated) version being the better handling of the two standard variants. Some journalists recommended that this version was better value for money than the Lotus.

Production ended in 2005.

Vauxhall Union Jack VX220 (2002)

2008-04-24T18:14:00.000+07:00

Vauxhall VX220

The Vauxhall VX220 is a mid engined, targa-topped, 2-seater introduced in early 2001. It was built for GM, along with the left hand drive version (the Opel Speedster), at the Lotus Cars, Hethel, Norfolk plant in England alongside the Lotus Elise S2. It was based on the Elise chassis, modified to accept the GM engine in preference to the K-series Rover engine used by the Elise. It carried the internal model identification Lotus 116 and the code name Lotus Skipton. Vauxhall Union Jack VX220 (2002)

The normally aspirated version used the Astra 2.2 L Ecotec L61 engine giving 147 hp (110 kW) in a car weighing 870 kg. The Turbo model, introduced in 2003, used the 2.0 L Ecotec LSJ engine, producing 200 hp (149 kW) but weighing 930 kg. A final version, the track-oriented VXR220, based on the turbo model, was tuned to give around 220 hp (164 kW) and used Lotus-style 16 in (406 mm) front wheels that allowed the fitment of special sports tyres to gain better road holding.

The car was hailed by the motoring press as a great drivers' car and won several accolades, with the 2.2 NA (normally aspirated) version being the better handling of the two standard variants. Some journalists recommended that this version was better value for money than the Lotus.

Production ended in 2005.

Vauxhall Omega (2001)

2008-04-24T18:13:00.004+07:00

The Opel Omega is an executive car produced by the German automaker Opel between 1986 and 2003. Replacing the Opel Rekord, it was voted European Car of the Year for 1987. Like the Rekord, the Omega was produced at Rüsselsheim in Germany. There were two generations of the model, the latter (Omega B) debuted in 1993. The Omega was available as sedan or estate (Caravan). Vauxhall Omega (2001)

In the United Kingdom, the Omega A was marketed as Vauxhall Carlton, and the Omega B generation as Vauxhall Omega. The Omega was also built and sold in Brazil badged as a Chevrolet Omega and Suprema (Caravan), but this name is now used for imported Holden Commodores. A badge engineered version of the Omega B MV6 was also sold in North America under the name of Cadillac Catera.

In the UK, the Omega is best known as a police car. Following the ending of production the direct Vauxhall equivalent which is used by police forces is the Vauxhall Vectra (the post-2003 "C" model). The car also been converted into limousines and hearses for use at funerals.

Production of the Omega ceased in 2003. There was no direct replacement for it, but the Vectra Caravan and Signum can be said to have partially taken over the role of the Caravan and the limousine, respectively.

The 1994 Vauxhall/Opel Omega was an all-new car with a modern exterior design but a traditional rear-wheel drive chassis. The engine range was all-new: Four cylinder engines were a 2.0 L petrol and a 2.5 L BMW-sourced turbo-diesel which were reasonably refined and gave acceptable performance. But the V6 engines (2.5 L and 3.0 L) were a far better bet. The top of the range Omega, with the 3.0 L V6, was the most expensive Vauxhall/Opel on the market at £30,000. Transmission options were a 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic GM 4L30-E transmission.

From 1997 to 2001, the top three L saloon was sold in the US as a captive import badged as the Cadillac Catera. The Omega platform was also heavily modified and enlarged as the basis of the Australian Holden Commodore (from 1997).

Late in 1999 the Omega received a facelift and a 2.2 L 16-valve engine was added to the range as an eventual replacement for the 2.0 L. The following year, a 3.2 L 'MV6' engine replaced the 3.0 L V6 unit, and a 2.6 L engine replaced the 2.5 L V6 unit.

During this time, the Omega found itself without any real competition. The demise of the Ford Scorpio (the Omega's biggest rival) left Vauxhall unable to decide where to focus the Omega. Other brands that had competed in this area had largely left the market, leaving the Omega to take on the likes of the BMW 5 Series.

Despite a strong showing, the Omega was never a serious rival to the 5 Series. Production of the Omega B finally ceased in 2003, with no direct successor, although the gap in the Vauxhall/Opel range was effectively filled by more expensive versions of the existing Vectra and Signum ranges.

Vauxhall Astra Coupe 888 (2001)

2008-04-24T18:13:00.003+07:00

The Astra is now built in Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, India, Poland and Russia, as well as being assembled in CKD (completely knocked-down) kits in other countries. It competes mainly against the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

Naming convention Vauxhall Astra Coupe 888 (2001)

As of 2006, there have been three generations of the vehicle. In a fashion typical for Opel models, they are designated with subsequent letters of the Latin alphabet. Opel's official convention is to continue the Opel Kadett lineage, thus referring to the first generation of Opel Astra as the Astra F (the last Opel Kadett was the Kadett E). Another convention used by GM starts with Astra A, adopting the notion that the Astra is a separate model. Models sold as Vauxhall, Holden or Chevrolet have different generation designations reflecting the history of those nameplates in their home markets and their naming conventions.

Astra G

The Astra G was launched in Europe in 1998. It was available as a 3 and 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon and two special versions: the Astra Coupé and the Astra Cabrio, both of them designed and built by Bertone. The biggest innovation is the introduction of a natural gas-powered engine. Its chassis was tuned by Lotus and formed the base of a seven-seater compact MPV, the Opel Zafira.

In some markets, such as Australia and New Zealand, the Polish-built Astra G was sold as the Astra Classic alongside the Astra H, as a rival to South Korean imports. It has now been replaced by the Daewoo Lacetti, but has been re-badged as the Holden Viva. It currently continues as the Chevrolet Astra in Latin America. In 2004, GM-AvtoVAZ, GM's joint venture with VAZ, launched the Chevrolet Viva, a four-door version of the Astra G.

Astra H

GM Europe launched Astra H at the end of 2003 and early 2004, depending on the market. Based on the then-new Delta platform, its size was increased, the engines improved and the styling and interior made distinctly more dynamic. Handling was further improved with each engine provided with its own Lotus-tuned suspension settings. It is so far available as a five-door hatchback, a five-door Caravan estate and a sporty three-door hatchback, designated the GTC for European markets, Sport Hatch in the UK and the Coupé in Australia. The GTC has the option of a panoramic windscreen (unique for a production car at the time of its launch) which extends into the roof area.

A first for any major European car is the availability of digital radio on some versions of the new Astra, while for the Astra product class first are electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting). In 2005, the new Opel Astra Diesel Hybrid appeared. By the end of 2005, estate and coupé versions were also launched.

Vauxhall Astra Convertible (2001)

2008-04-24T18:13:00.001+07:00

The Opel Astra is a small family car produced by Opel, a subsidiary of General Motors. It is badged an Opel in continental Europe, the Republic of Ireland, the Middle East, North Africa, South Africa and India; Vauxhall in the United Kingdom, Holden in Australasia, and Chevrolet in Latin America. In Russia, it is sold as both an Opel and a Chevrolet. Vauxhall Astra Convertible (2001)

The Astra is now built in Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, India, Poland and Russia, as well as being assembled in CKD (completely knocked-down) kits in other countries. It competes mainly against the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

Naming convention

As of 2006, there have been three generations of the vehicle. In a fashion typical for Opel models, they are designated with subsequent letters of the Latin alphabet. Opel's official convention is to continue the Opel Kadett lineage, thus referring to the first generation of Opel Astra as the Astra F (the last Opel Kadett was the Kadett E). Another convention used by GM starts with Astra A, adopting the notion that the Astra is a separate model. Models sold as Vauxhall, Holden or Chevrolet have different generation designations reflecting the history of those nameplates in their home markets and their naming conventions.

Astra G

The Astra G was launched in Europe in 1998. It was available as a 3 and 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon and two special versions: the Astra Coupé and the Astra Cabrio, both of them designed and built by Bertone. The biggest innovation is the introduction of a natural gas-powered engine. Its chassis was tuned by Lotus and formed the base of a seven-seater compact MPV, the Opel Zafira.

In some markets, such as Australia and New Zealand, the Polish-built Astra G was sold as the Astra Classic alongside the Astra H, as a rival to South Korean imports. It has now been replaced by the Daewoo Lacetti, but has been re-badged as the Holden Viva. It currently continues as the Chevrolet Astra in Latin America. In 2004, GM-AvtoVAZ, GM's joint venture with VAZ, launched the Chevrolet Viva, a four-door version of the Astra G.

Astra H

GM Europe launched Astra H at the end of 2003 and early 2004, depending on the market. Based on the then-new Delta platform, its size was increased, the engines improved and the styling and interior made distinctly more dynamic. Handling was further improved with each engine provided with its own Lotus-tuned suspension settings. It is so far available as a five-door hatchback, a five-door Caravan estate and a sporty three-door hatchback, designated the GTC for European markets, Sport Hatch in the UK and the Coupé in Australia. The GTC has the option of a panoramic windscreen (unique for a production car at the time of its launch) which extends into the roof area.

A first for any major European car is the availability of digital radio on some versions of the new Astra, while for the Astra product class first are electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting). In 2005, the new Opel Astra Diesel Hybrid appeared. By the end of 2005, estate and coupé versions were also launched.

Vauxhall Frontera (2000)

2008-04-24T18:12:00.003+07:00

Vauxhall Astra Coupe (2000)

2008-04-24T18:12:00.001+07:00

The Opel Astra is a small family car produced by Opel, a subsidiary of General Motors. It is badged an Opel in continental Europe, the Republic of Ireland, the Middle East, North Africa, South Africa and India; Vauxhall in the United Kingdom, Holden in Australasia, and Chevrolet in Latin America. In Russia, it is sold as both an Opel and a Chevrolet. Vauxhall Astra Coupe (2000)

The Astra is now built in Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Brazil, South Africa, India, Poland and Russia, as well as being assembled in CKD (completely knocked-down) kits in other countries. It competes mainly against the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf.

Naming convention

As of 2006, there have been three generations of the vehicle. In a fashion typical for Opel models, they are designated with subsequent letters of the Latin alphabet. Opel's official convention is to continue the Opel Kadett lineage, thus referring to the first generation of Opel Astra as the Astra F (the last Opel Kadett was the Kadett E). Another convention used by GM starts with Astra A, adopting the notion that the Astra is a separate model. Models sold as Vauxhall, Holden or Chevrolet have different generation designations reflecting the history of those nameplates in their home markets and their naming conventions.

Astra G

The Astra G was launched in Europe in 1998. It was available as a 3 and 5-door hatchback, 4-door saloon and two special versions: the Astra Coupé and the Astra Cabrio, both of them designed and built by Bertone. The biggest innovation is the introduction of a natural gas-powered engine. Its chassis was tuned by Lotus and formed the base of a seven-seater compact MPV, the Opel Zafira.

In some markets, such as Australia and New Zealand, the Polish-built Astra G was sold as the Astra Classic alongside the Astra H, as a rival to South Korean imports. It has now been replaced by the Daewoo Lacetti, but has been re-badged as the Holden Viva. It currently continues as the Chevrolet Astra in Latin America. In 2004, GM-AvtoVAZ, GM's joint venture with VAZ, launched the Chevrolet Viva, a four-door version of the Astra G.

Astra H

GM Europe launched Astra H at the end of 2003 and early 2004, depending on the market. Based on the then-new Delta platform, its size was increased, the engines improved and the styling and interior made distinctly more dynamic. Handling was further improved with each engine provided with its own Lotus-tuned suspension settings. It is so far available as a five-door hatchback, a five-door Caravan estate and a sporty three-door hatchback, designated the GTC for European markets, Sport Hatch in the UK and the Coupé in Australia. The GTC has the option of a panoramic windscreen (unique for a production car at the time of its launch) which extends into the roof area.

A first for any major European car is the availability of digital radio on some versions of the new Astra, while for the Astra product class first are electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting). In 2005, the new Opel Astra Diesel Hybrid appeared. By the end of 2005, estate and coupé versions were also launched.

Vauxhall Agila (2000)

2008-04-24T18:11:00.000+07:00

The Agila, badged either as an Opel in Europe or as a Vauxhall in the UK, is a city car built in Poland, with sales commencing in summer 2000. Vauxhall Agila (2000)

It was a rebadged version of the Suzuki Wagon R, which was produced in Japan. The Agila's Opel-sourced 1.0 L and 1.2 L gasoline engines were smaller than the European-market 1.3 L found in the European-market Wagon R, but were more powerful and refined. Equipment levels, low asking prices and running costs also contributed towards the Agila's success.

The Agila is built at the General Motors Manufacturing Poland factory in Gliwice, Poland. The Suzuki Wagon R was built at the Suzuki plant in Hungary until 2004, and since early 2005 has also been built in Poland.

While many European city cars (Ford Ka, Volkswagen Lupo, Fiat Seicento and Renault Twingo) come with just three doors, the Agila came with five. It is as tall as Korean city cars such as the Hyundai Atos and Kia Picanto.

Vauxhall Tigra (1999)

2008-04-24T18:10:00.002+07:00

The Opel Tigra is a sports car produced by Opel (a subsidiary of General Motors Corporation) based on its Corsa supermini. It was originally available as a small coupé, produced from 1994 to 2000, with a new roadster model introduced in 2004. The Opel Tigra was sold in the UK as the Vauxhall Tigra and in Brazil and Mexico as the Chevrolet Tigra. Vauxhall Tigra (1999)

Tigra Mk I (1994-2000)

The Tigra was based on the concept car of the same name and built on the platform of the second generation Opel Corsa. However, it shared no body panels with the model it was based on, and the interior layout was different too, with a 2+2 seating arrangement. The production vehicle was introduced at the 1993 Frankfurt Motor Show, with production starting in early 1994.

The Tigra was available with two petrol engines options, both from the Ecotec family, a more affordable 1.4 L with 90 PS (66 kW), and a larger sportier version, powered by the 1.6 L engine with 106 PS (78 kW), sourced from the Corsa GSi. Both wereDOHC 16 valve engines with electronic fuel injection. The smaller engine was available with an optional 4-speed automatic gearbox.

Added to the mass-market underpinnings was a suspension tweaked by Lotus. However, the car was overweight, with 150 kg (330 lb) over the equivalent engined Corsa models. Acceleration on the 1.6 L model was 10.5 seconds, one second slower than the Corsa GSi. However, a higher top speed of 203 km/h (126 mph) compensanted for its acceleration troubles. This speed increase was obtained thanks to the higher gear ratios, a lower drag coefficient of 0.31, and standard 15" wheels on the more powerful model.

The car was imported by Chevrolet and sold as the Chevrolet Tigra in Brazil and Mexico, and as the Vauxhall Tigra in the United Kingdom.

The Brazilian Chevrolet Tigra was imported only for a few months, between late 1998 to early 1999, due to a sudden depreciation of the Real, which forced General Motors do Brasil to end importation. Only the 1.6 L model was imported, detuned to 99 PS (73 kW) for tax purposes. The 15" wheels were also exchanged for more affordable 14" wheels.

Tigra Twin Top

After an absence of a four years, Opel resurrected the Tigra nameplate in 2004 for a new sports car based on the Corsa C. The Tigra Twin Top, as it was called, is a 2-seater coupé convertible with a retractable hardtop in the fashion of the Peugeot 206 CC. The Tigra is produced by French coachworks Heuliez.

Like its predecessor, the Tigra Twin Top is available with two petrol-powered engines. The base model uses the 1.4 L engine with 90 PS (66 kW), but now from the Twinport family, different from the previous generation's 1.4, while the top of the range uses the Ecotec 1.8 L from the Corsa GSi, with 125 PS (92 kW). An economic version, using Fiat's Multijet 1.3 Diesel engine, was introduced in 2005.

The second generation is marketed in Australasia as the XC-series Holden Tigra, only with the 1.8 L engine.

Vauxhall Corsa (1999)

2008-04-24T18:10:00.001+07:00

Vauxhall Corsa B Vauxhall Corsa (1999)

In 1993, a curvier, more attractive, Corsa was unveiled, and in the UK, Vauxhall dropped the Nova name, the car now being known as the Corsa in the UK. The next year, it was launched by Holden in Australia, as the Barina replacing a version of the Suzuki Swift sold under that name. This proved a success, and was the first Spanish-built car to be sold in significant volumes on the Australian market.

Power came from 1.2 L, 1.4 L and 1.6 L Family 1 gasoline engines, as well as an economical 1.5 L turbodiesel engine. Unlike the previous model, there was no sedan version, but one was designed in Brazil for the Latin American market, as sedans were much preferred to hatchbacks. This was also introduced in South Africa and India. A station wagon, panel van and pick-up truck were also introduced. The wagon version was sold in some European markets, including Italy, badged as an Opel. The Corsa also spawned a small coupé called Opel Tigra.

A 1.0 L 3-cylinder Family 0 economy version was launched in 1996, and a Lotus-tuned suspension was added as well as an exterior refresh. Strong competition came from new models like the Peugeot 206, Fiat Punto and Škoda Fabia.

The sedan model is still built and sold in Brazil as the Chevrolet Classic, and Chevrolet Corsa Classic in Argentina. A budget version, the Chevrolet Celta, has bodywork resembling the late 1990s Vectra and Astra. Mexico has their version of the hatchback and sedan, known as the Chevy C2, which is also sold in Colombia.

The sedan and wagon versions were produced in China by GM Shanghai as Buick Sail and Buick Sail S-RV, respectively, until 2005. In 2005, they became known as the Chevrolet Sail and SRV. In September 2006, Chile will be the first country outside China to receive the Chinese-assembled Sail; it will be called Chevrolet Corsa Plus, a 4 door sedan version, with a 1.6L engine (92cv) including double front airbags, ABS brakes, air conditioning, power windows and central lock as standard equipment.

In India, the hatchback and wagon versions were sold as the Corsa Sail and Corsa Swing respectively until the end of 2005. The hatchback model is also still produced, and extensively marketed in South Africa as the Corsa Lite and Corsa Lite Plus.

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2008)

2008-04-24T18:08:00.002+07:00

Vauxhall Corsa VXR (2008)
The new Corsa has already caused quite a sensation with its bold styling and impressive road manners, but now Vauxhall has pulled the wraps off the ultimate version - the long awaited VXR.

The performance flagship of the range is every inch a VXR, designed from the outset to deliver the ultimate in hot-hatch driving excitement and style.

Immediately distinguishable from other models in the new Corsa range, the three-door only VXR comes with several unique VXR styling cues. The mirrors, front foglamp surrounds and centre-exit exhaust tailpipe all have a triangular theme, while the aggressive front and rear bumpers are unique to this model.

Sweeping side skirts and an angular roof spoiler help accentuate the three-door Corsa's already muscular design, while a mesh front grille, blue-painted brake callipers and optional 18-inch alloys further set off the VXR's performance appearance.

The interior is dominated by the sculpted, shell-backed Recaro sports seats and the race-car style flat-bottomed steering wheel. Drilled alloy pedals, piano black trim on the facia and unique VXR detailing on the dials and gear lever make sure the Corsa VXR looks as special inside as it does on the outside.

Power comes from a compact 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, developing 192PS and giving Corsa VXR the ability to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 6.8 seconds, on to a top speed of 140mph. Like the Meriva VXR, it comes with an 'overboost' facility which can increase the torque output on demand to a maximum of more than 260Nm - useful for safe overtaking.

The power is kept in check with a dynamically-designed chassis including a specially-tuned ESP system, along with uprated brakes and suspension and variably-assisted power steering, which alters the weight and feel of the wheel depending on the way in which the car is driven - a feature unique in this area of the market.

Yet despite its wild performance and impressive technology, Corsa VXR promises to be an affordable car to run, with surprising fuel economy for a 140mph car. On extra-urban routes it returns 44.1mpg according to official figures and the combined fuel economy figure is 35.8mpg.

The Corsa VXR will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and will be available from Vauxhall retailers from mid-March. Prices will be announced nearer to the on-sale date.

Venturi Astrolab (2007)

2008-04-24T18:08:00.001+07:00

ELECTRO-SOLAR HYBRID http://autobuy.blogspot.com/
Venturi Astrolab (2007)
With 3.6 sqm of photovoltaic cells giving an exceptional yield of 21%, and covered by a film composed of nano-prisms enabling denser concentration of solar energy, Venturi Astrolab is the first high-performance solar vehicle to be commercialized in the world.

Capable of working with very little energy (16 kWc engine) and of recharging even when in motion, this vehicle of another era does not need to be permanently exposed to the sun in order to move. Its last-generation NiMH Venturi NIV-7 batteries - liquid cooled - in fact enable it to restitute stored energy, whether solar or from the electricity supply, making it the first electro-solar hybrid vehicle.

With a top speed of 120 km/hr and autonomy of 110 km, Venturi Astrolab is a real "Solar Commuter" making extensive trips on a daily basis.

Made by order, Venturi Astrolab is a vehicle with a considerable technological head-start on all other productions worldwide. It meets the needs of people's inter-urban travel, at the forefront of the best that is being achieved in terms of technology.

CONSUMPTION = 0, EMISSIONS = 0

This is very first vehicle that consumes no fossile resources in order to work: the emissions of CO2 required for its construction will even be compensated for by evironmental actions.

A parallel can be drawn between Venturi Astrolab and a sailboat: both advance silently while making best use of the elements provided by Nature. And the piloting of both makes for sensations unlike any other.

To attain this level of performance while using very little energy, Venturi Astrolab has been designed like a Formula 1: its carbon monocoque chassis is ultra-light and serves as an oversized protection cell ensuring the safety of its occupants in the event of a collision. Its profile recalls the aqua-dynamic design of great racing yachts.

A NEW ERA IN TERMS OF DESIGN

Venturi Astrolab also opens up a new era as regards automobile architecture: light and highprofiled, it offers the rays of the sun 3.6 sqm of today's most sophisticated photovoltaic cells (for an overall vehicle length under 4 m).

Its designer Sacha Lakic describes Venturi Astrolab as: "a flying wing set on four wheels".

Optimised to incoporate its solar cells, the Venturi Astrolab's design takes into account the effect of passengers' weight on the vehicle's dynamic behaviour. Very light when empty, the tandem architecture makes for perfect balance, whether the vehicle is occupied by one person or two.

With Astrolab, Venturi has given priority to the solar solution as its energy conversion technology: all of its developments allow us to hope for even higher yields in the years to come. Within a 30-year perspective, Venturi is the only automobile manufacturer capable of presenting such a solution while ensuring new driving sensations and an essential aspect of automobiles: the dream.

Venturi Fetish (2005)

2008-04-24T18:07:00.003+07:00

The Venturi Fétish is the world's first production two-seater electric sports car. It is produced by Venturi in Monaco.

Technical specifications

The car is unique in that its acceleration is comparable to a normal internal combustion engined sports car, producing as it does 300 horsepower (180 kW), with a 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph) time of 4.5 seconds. Its top speed is less comparable however, at 170 km/h (105 mph), which is respectable considering that it only has one gear. It runs at a constant translation of 9.58 : 1, with a torque of 220 Nm.

One other particular attraction of the car is that due to the electric motor, the full 300 bhp is available at all speeds, as opposed to the progressive delivery of a internal combustion engined car, where full power is only available within certain RPM ranges.

The company specifies the car with a range of 250 to 350 km (155 to 217 miles), which is perhaps the best one can get with an electric car. The batteries are all lithium ion accumulators, which recharge in about 16.5 hours at 16 amperes, or at 3.5 hours at 80 amperes.

Miscellaneous information

All the car's electric drivetrain components are designed and made by AC Propulsion.
The retail price for this car is € 450,000 (approx. US$575,000), VAT not included.
The futuristic design of the car was done by the parisian designer Sacha Lakic.

Venturi Eclectic (2007)

2008-04-24T18:07:00.001+07:00

Eclectic: Broad-mindedness enabling one to address all new ideas with understanding, taking the best offered by each different system.

THE 1st ENERGY-AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

Soaring gas prices, economic crises, wars, omnipresent pollution, irreversible changes in the climate… Our world is going through a period when the stakes in terms of energy form the very basis for worldwide chaos. While admitting that no solution for energy production can be perfect, we must become fully aware of the imperative need to limit our own personal consumption of energy.

Venturi Eclectic, the first autonomous vehicle in the history of the automobile, opens up a new era in the field of mobility: reserved for daily driving in urban areas, its low energy consumption makes it the most economical environmental vehicle ever built.

Innovative and astonishing, Venturi Eclectic is much more than a simple vehicle ; it is a production and storage plant for renewable energies, either solar or wind based. Charging of these energies, which is intermittent in certain regions, can also be complemented by electrical recharging.

FUNCTION DICTATES THE DESIGN

Of decidedly original design, this is a vehicle that has no desire to look like other cars which depend on "black gold": priority has been given to integration of the photovoltaic cells which compose its translucid roof.

Venturi Eclectic thus does not pass unnoticed in traffic: its elevated central driving position offers exceptional panoramic vision and considerable space, for both driver and passengers.

Venturi Eclectic's message is loud and clear: this is not an ordinary car, but an avant-garde way of getting around. Owning an Venturi Eclectic is also a personal commitment: it means changing one's way of getting from one place to another by exchanging one's role as a "consumer" for that of a "producer" and this, in the general interest.

Its designer Sacha Lakic describes Venturi Eclectic as: "a modern, autonomous and intelligent automobile. The energy that drives it exists all around it: it simply has to deploy its wind turbine, expose its solar cells or, if necessary, find a simple electric plug.

It is usual practice to "stylise" a car. In the case of Venturi Eclectic, its contours were born of an approach to design. Its appearance reflects its function.

Its silhouette pays homage to certain icon-cars such as the Lunar Rover, Mini-Moke and Méhari. Though its technology positions it clearly in the present and, above all, the future.

TECHNOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ADVANCES

Venturi marks a new era in technological history by launching the production of Venturi Eclectic, an urban 3-seater electro-solar vehicle which goes well beyond anything offered so far by car manufacturers of today:

1 st vehicle powered by renewable energies;
1 st solar production vehicle (2.5 sqm of photovoltaic cells);
1 st vehicle that can be directly recharged with a personal wind turbine;
Venturi Eclectic is thus the vehicle with the least possible impact on the environment.

Unlike other vehicles which are not used for over 90% of the time, Venturi Eclectic takes advantage of moments of immobilisation to store energy in its batteries ; contrary to a petrol tank, this energy reserve remains available for other uses. It's well worth betting that one day, and at national level, this could comprise a considerable reserve of energy which could compensate for breakdowns in the production of electricity as already seen, for example, in California.

Available with last-generation NiMH (NIV-7) batteries (liquid cooled), Venturi Eclectic offers a range up to 50 km at a speed of 50 km/h (electronically restricted), which suffices largely to cover daily movements in urban areas.

The share of solar recharging is approximately 7 km per day of exposure

When using electricity, a full recharge requires 5 hrs using a standard connection (16 A).

Finally, as an option, Venturi Eclectic can be recharged with one or more wind turbines, fixed either on the roof of the vehicle when it is stationary, or to the ground with a specific mast. In this case, the share of recharging is approximately 15 km per day in windy areas.

Wiesmann Roadster (2006)

2008-04-24T18:06:00.001+07:00

The Wiesmann Roadster

The Wiesmann-Roadster which is manufactured since 1993, has been adapted permanently to the latest technical development. It's a dynamic and powerful sports car, made for convertible enthusiasts, taking its very own market position, supported by an ever growing fan community. The Wiesmann brand is established.

In succeeding years the Wiesmann-Roadster has been continuously developed and kept up-to-date with engineering progress. With almost 500 examples now having been built, a quality of finish has now been achieved which is unequalled among comparable small-scale manufacturers.

In 2003, on the 10th anniversary of the factory, Wiesmann gave the models a facelift: from the 300th. Roadster, all vehicles leaving the factory had a number of optical and technical detail alterations. The classic shape of the car body, which became very successful and is particularly loved by Wiesmann customers, retained unchanged. Improvements to the interior and modest alterations to the Roadster's external appearance were signs of the continued logical development of the vehicle concept.

Additional options allow the customers to individualise their own hand-made dream car. Individuality is the magic word! After all, the customer wants a car that is individually equipped, tailored to his wishes, crafted to suit him and make him satisfied and happy.

The Wiesmann-Roadster is available with two powerful engines:
MF 30 - 170 kW/231 HP - 2,979 cc
MF 3 - 252 kW/343 HP - 3,246 cc

Even though the performance of the normally-fitted engine with 3 litres and 231 HP (achieving a power-weight ratio of 4.67 kg/HP) is adequate for a sports car, this was not always sufficient to fulfil all our customers' wishes for engine performance. This culminated in the offer of a further engine from the BMW stable, the M engine from the 3-series.

The driving qualities of the Roadsters with this engine, with its output of 343 HP and 365 Nm (resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of the car at its empty weight of 1,180 kg of 3.44 kg/HP) combined with a sequential manual 6-speed gearbox are driven to the very peak of driving enjoyment.

The extension of standard equipment covers the following new features:

Standard equipment

+ BMW M3-Motor 252 kW/ 343 HP and 365 Nm
+ Dynamics switch (throttle valve control selectable sporty/ comfortable)
+ New design of the rear light-clusters and the front flashers
+ Additional side blinkers in the sills
+ Redesigned door-lock
+ New switch design in the central console
+ New control lights display
+ New design for the instrument panel
+ Interior improvements with leather elements in cross-stitch pattern

Special equipment available at an extra price

+ Sequential 6-speed gearbox (SMG II) with switch on the steering wheel (2 driving modes: manual gear-change with steering wheel switch or with the gear stick; automatic mode)
+ Drivelogic (6 different driving programmes for comfortable driving through to sporty driving)
+ Acceleration assistant (for optimum vehicle acceleration at sports car racing level)
+ Control light display with gear indicator
+ DSC Dynamic Stability control (manual cut-out)
+ Modification of the front lighting units (additional xenon or H7 headlights)
+ Wider wheels (255/30 on 9.5x19" front, 295/30 on 11x19" rear)

The optical and aerodynamic developments, in combination with the modified standard equipment and great variety of individual possibilities, once again enhanced the attractiveness of the Wiesmann-Roadster.

Base price:
Wiesmann Roadster MF 30 € 91.000 incl. VAT
Wiesmann Roadster MF 3 € 96.000 incl. VAT

Wiesmann GT (2006)

2008-04-24T18:05:00.000+07:00

The Wiesmann GT

The success of the Roadster concept is based on a successful synthesis of classic design and state-of-the-art engineering. This encouraged Friedhelm and Martin Wiesmann to develop a new, similarly fascinating, sports car on the basis of the Roadster, the Wiesmann GT.

The two-seater coupé celebrated its premiere as a production vehicle at the IAA 2005 in Frankfurt, to be acclaimed by the motoring experts.

Despite the suggestions of a classic design as a further development of the Wiesmann-Roadster it was a completely new car which was created. Basic data were gained from the Wiesmann Racing GT, which was tested as a experimental vehicle under extreme conditions during the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring in 2002.

Since it was clear from the outset that this vehicle would not only be optically different, but based on different fundamental data, from the Roadster, there was plenty of room for manoeuvre in the development. Starting point for considerations was the engine. This was to represent a new sparkle, come what might.

Since, as it is well known, displacement can only be replaced by one thing, and that is more displacement, thoughts quickly made friends with the idea of using a BMW V8 engine of 4.8 litres capacity. This made a larger engine compartment than the Roadster's essential, which consequently meant

that all the dimensions of the Wiesmann GT would have to be oriented towards that.

Thus, the GT grew in all directions, compared with the Roadster: it was three centimetres higher, eleven wider, and no less than 37 longer. To take account of the rather higher fuel consumption of the larger engine, 10 litres additional fuel tank volume was provided, at 70 litres, to guarantee adequate range on longer journeys.

The challenge now facing the engineers was to convert the engine's output into vehicle dynamics. Normally, a larger vehicle also weighs more, which in turn adversely affects the performance figures. This was avoided by designing an aluminium monocoque, familiar from the racing scene. In this way, the increase in weight was kept within bounds, and at 70 kg was extremely modest for a car of this size. The bodywork is of lightweight, high-quality, fibreglass-reinforced compound material and in the familiar manner is also fabricated in the factory.

The xenon headlights ensure good visibility in darkness, and the rear lights, which consist of LEDs, not only give a clear signal but are also unmistakable as the hallmark of the Wiesmann GT even at night.

With a power-to-weight ratio of 3.41 kg/HP the Wiesmann GT is to be found in the leading group of sports cars. The low centre of gravity, the perfectly-tuned running gear combined with the bullish torque delivered by the engine, the optimum seating position for driver and passenger ensure unalloyed driving enjoyment.

The Wiesmann GT is an individual sports car with a classic design, which fits perfectly in the automotive landscape and which will capture its own niche.

Base price: € 111.000 incl. VAT

Wiesmann GT MF5 (2008)

2008-04-24T18:04:00.000+07:00

Completed just in time for the start of the IAA: the Wiesmann GT with the model name of MF 5 and a 10-cylinder motor. Hiding behind this unpretentious name is the most exciting sports car ever to be presented by Wiesmann to the public.

It is a perfect blend of the corporate philosophy's contents, which is a combination of beautiful body shapes and state-of-the-art technology. The appearance of this super sports car alone would clearly signal the arrival of something extraordinary: a very low and cowered-down body in combination with wide base tyres stand for abounding power and a highly racy vehicle to be expected.

Wiesmann fulfils the desire of many a GT enthousiast, who had welcome the successful expansion of the Wiesmann model portfolio, and who, at the same time, had still wanted for the engine to become even racier.

Dipl.-Kfm. Friedhelm Wiesmann (business graduate), spokesman of the board, explains: „Our intention is to meet these demands with the GT MF 5. This new sports car tops off our porfolio of models, setting the new benchmark when it comes to the Wiesmann sports cars' driving performance - which is rather impressive anyhow."

Dipl.-Ing. Martin Wiesmann (graduate engineer), managing director in charge of development and production, says: „Compared to the normal GT, it is already the outer appearance of the MF 5 that would be outstanding: both a wing as well as a diffusor generate the necessary rear-suspension drive line, thus ensuring an excellent stability especially for those high-speed moments. A lot of effort went into the development of a high-performance chassis to make sure the MF 5 driver will enjoy the ride and yet will at all times be safe no matter what."

The drive system of this super sports car comprises a 12:1 compacted V 10-cylinder front-mounted mid-engine with a cubic capacity of 5 litres boasting 507 HP which are generated by 7,750 crankshaft rotations. A maximum torque of 520 Nm ensures a powerful drive at all speeds and driving fun at its best.

GT experts will immediately notice the lower total height (- 5 cm), the slight increase in width (+ 9,6 cm), and the increase in total length by 8 cm to 4.3 m compared to the MF 4 with a correspondingly bigger track gauge of + 10 cm (front) and + 9.8 cm (rear). These details are crucial for its very low centre of gravity and hence its good roadability.

In spite of all its safety features, the vehicle's bigger size, the engine's high capacity, and the corresponding sequential 7-speed transmission system (in connection with a variable differential lock) account for a modest increase in weight of only 100 kg compared to the MF 4. The resulting driving performance is beyond each doubt: the acceleration time of 0 - 100 km/h is 3.9 seconds, and the power to weight ratio amounts to a sensational 2.7 kg/HP. With this value the MF 5 ranks among the top class of the sportsters league.

In order to be able to control such a powerful vehicle, both its driver as well as its fellow passenger need to be in close contact with it. The GT MF 5 therefore comes with especially designed bucket seats with an excellent lateral support, which by request may be adjusted to the driver's and fellow passenger's body contours. They give the necessary support, for the passengers to have a firm grasp in view of the great acceleration forces that may develop, and to be able to fully enjoy the driving performance. Special carbon seats are also available by request.

The passengers' safety is ensured by energy absorbing car body parts, by a stiff aluminium monocoque including a side-collision protection structure, and by the serial ABS combined with a dynamic stability control system DSC.

The months following the world premiere will be reserved for fine tuning and long-term as well as endurance testing, in order to fulfil all requirements of those already highly interested in Wiesmann's newest super sports car.

The market launch of the Wiesmann GT MF 5 fully suitable for daily use is scheduled for spring of 2008. The price of the GT MF 5 with its comprehensive equipment amounts to 178,900 € incl. VAT. Exclusive carbon parts are also available by request.

ENGINE
V10 Front-mounted mid-engine with three-way catalytic converter, petrol injection, stainless-steel double-pipe exhaust
cylinder/valves: 10 / 4
cubic capacity: 4,999 cm3
bore/stroke: 92.0 / 75.2 mm
max. power: 373 KW (507 HP) at 7,750 rpm
max. torque: 520 Nm at 6,100 rpm
fuel consumption:
combined: 14.8 l/100km
city: 22.7 l/100km
highway: 10.2 l/100km
CO2 emission: 357 g/km
MOTOR CONTROL
digital motor electronics (DME), double VANOS (variable camshaft control), fully electronically controlled single throttle valve, shear force oil supply, ion-current knock control system, three-way catalytic converter, heated lambda probe, activated carbon filter, controlled fuel tank venting, light-alloy engine block, light-alloy cylinder head, on-board diagnostics, double-flow exhaust system
WEIGHT/DIMENSIONS
curb weight: 1,380 kg
permitted weight in total: 1,650 kg
weight distribution front / rear: 50 / 50
length/width/height: 4,300 / 1,956 / 1,170 mm
wheelbase: 2,507 mm
front track gauge: 1,560 mm
rear track gauge: 1,636 mm
CONSTRUCTION
aluminium monocoque, bonded and riveted
BODY
high-quality, fibre-glass reinforced composite material, diffusor, rear wing, enlarged air inlets, green-toned color glazing, laminated-glass windscreen, safety glass side window and rear screen, free choice of paint
TRANSMISSION SYSTEM
sequential 7-gear SMG automatic transmission
differential: variable differential lock
DRIVING PERFORMANCE
top speed: 310 km/h
acceleration 0-100 km/h: 3.9 s
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
70 l
SAFETY
air bags for driver and fellow passenger, integrated side-collision protection, ABS (antilock braking system), DSC (dynamic stability control), safety steering column adjustable in height and length, BMW safety system incl. approved electronic immobiliser system (Elektronische Wegfahrsperre EWS lll), 3-point seat belts, hydraulic power-assisted steering
EQUIPMENT
refrigerator, bucket seats, leather interior, Xenon headlamps and additional headlamps, central locking system, electric window lift, electric wing mirror adjustment, electronic revolution counter, electronic tachometer, fuel gauge, water temperatur gauge, oil temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, analog watch, aluminium gear lever knob, velour carpet in passenger compartment and boot, glove box with lighting, passenger compartment lighting

Toyota Yaris (2007)

2008-04-24T18:03:00.000+07:00

Toyota Yaris

The Toyota Vitz, Toyota Yaris liftback, and Toyota Echo hatchback are all models of a small subcompact car first launched by Toyota in 1999. The Vitz is a 3 and 5 door hatchback automobile. In Europe, the Americas, Australia and South Africa, it is sold as the Yaris liftback (or simply Yaris). The vehicle was known as the Echo hatchback up to 2005 in Canada and Australia.

The name Vitz came from German word witz, which means "wit," "witticism," or "gag" in English. The name Yaris combines the German expression "ja," which is similar in meaning to "yes," with Charis, a Greek goddess who symbolized beauty and elegance. Coincidentally, the chief designer for the Yaris is Greek.

First generation (1999–2005)

The Yaris went on sale in Europe early in 1999. After the freshening of the European Yaris hatchback in February 2003, a slightly modified version went on sale in Canada for the 2004 model year as the Echo hatchback, but not in the United States, where the Toyota Echo sedan was the lone model. The Yaris was voted European Car of the Year in 2000.

Instead of conventional instruments, the Yaris and Echo hatchbacks utilized digital instruments which were mounted in the center of the dashboard. The Canadian Echo hatchback (and the Yaris T Sport) had a conventional speedometer but it was still mounted in the center of the dashboard.

The European Yaris was initially available with two gasoline–powered 4-cylinder 1.0l and 1.3l engines with Toyota's VVT-i technology, with the "warm hatch" 1.5l T Sport following in 2001. After the 2003 facelift, a 1.4l D4-D diesel engine offering 75hp was also included in the lineup. This diesel engine is also licensed to BMW for use in their MINI One D model.

The Japanese Vitz RS (European Yaris T-Sport) was introduced in 2001, powered by a 1.5l engine, shared with the Echo, Vios, as well as the Scion xA. The 1.5l T Sport was marketed as more fun to drive than the base models because of a sportier suspension and extra power compared to the 1.3l model.

An interesting addition to the Yaris range came in 2000 with the Yaris Verso, a small MPV which used the same running gear as the conventional hatchback, but was designed to have an even more practical interior. In Japan, the model bore the name of Fun Cargo. The model was replaced by the Ractis in 2004.

The running gear was shared with the Toyota bB and Ist, sold in the United States as the Scion xA and xB, and with the Japan-only Toyota Will Vi. The same CP platform is the base for the Japanese-only Probox and Succeed wagons.

The Echo sold in very high volumes in Canada, where smaller cars are much more popular than in the US. Sales were so high that Toyota introduced the 3 and 5-door hatchback models to the Canadian Toyota lineup for the 2004 model year. They were sold as the Echo hatchback and look almost identical to the European Yaris, but with a larger bumper to meet Canadian safety requirements.

The Echo was also very popular in Australia. First introduced in late 1999 to replace the aging Starlet, the Echo was available as a 3 or 5 door hatchback, fitted only with the 1.3l VVT-i engine. An Echo Sportivo variant, fitted with the 1.5l VVT-i engine, was made available for a limited time in Australia. The Sportivo was very similar to the European Yaris T-Sport.

The Yaris was manufactured in Japan(early models and t-sport) and France.

Second generation

Toyota redesigned the Vitz in early 2005, immediately going on sale in Japan, while the Fun Cargo was replaced by the Ractis in October 2005.

The European, Australasian, Canadian, and Mexican markets saw the second generation Vitz near the end of 2005. In the Australian and North American markets, the car was sold as the "Yaris" for the first time. The production North American 2007 Toyota Yaris was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January 2006.

The 4-cylinder 1.0 VVT-i engine was replaced by the 3-cylinder engine, also found in the Toyota Aygo and Daihatsu Sirion. The 1.3 L was revised to offer slightly more power, and the 1.4 D-4D got a 15 PS boost to 90 PS (66 kW). The Yaris became the first car in its sector to offer nine airbags.

The Canadian Yaris hatchback is available in 3 and 5-door models, running on a 1.5 L 4 cylinder VVT-i engine rated 106 hp and 103 ft·lbf torque. 3-door CE and 5-door LE versions come with 14-inch wheels, while RS models are equipped with 15-inch alloys with standard anti-lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution (EBD).

The American Yaris is similar to the Canadian variant. The 3-door model is called the Yaris Liftback, while the 5-door model is not sold in the United States, presumably to avoid internal competition with Scion's xA and xB. The CE, LE, and RS packages in the Canadian hatchback are replaced by the more modular convenience, power, and all-weather guard packages.

The Mexican Yaris is the same to the Canadian version. they're available in Core, Premium, and RS packages.

The 2007 Yaris can achieve fuel economy ratings of 40 miles per gallon during highway driving and 34 MPG during city driving.

The New Yaris is designed in France and built in both Japan and France.

Yes Roadster (2003)

2008-04-24T18:02:00.002+07:00

Yes Clubsport (2001)

2008-04-24T18:02:00.001+07:00

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2007 Acura TL

2008-04-06T18:22:00.001+07:00

The 2004 Acura TL attacked the performance luxury sedan market with its impressive styling, a luxurious and technology-packed interior, and its best-in-class horsepower. Confronted with the new competition from Lexus, BMW, Infiniti and others, the 2007 TL has been impressively updated. Now the TL is available in two versions, the luxurious TL and the reintroduced high-performance TL Type-S, to crystallize its place as the standard representative in its cla >> read

2007 Acura TL Picture Gallery

2007 Acura RDX

2008-04-06T18:21:00.002+07:00

Combining sport utility with sports sedan handling and performance, RDX features an innovative 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, Acura’s exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), and is designed to redefine the entry premium SUV segment. This near-production prototype provides an advance preview of the all-new RDX that will go on sale this summer.

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