Minitest 2008 Lotus 2-Eleven

VEHICLE TYPE: mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 0-door roadster
BASE PRICE (U.K.): $68,532
ENGINE TYPE: supercharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port fuel injection
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 90.6 in Length: 150.5–152.4 in Width: 67.3 in Height: 43.8 in
Curb weight: 1650 lb

We are amazed and mostly delighted by the way Lotus has played so many tunes on the theme of the Elise. Lightweight cars are the thing today, so it is a surprise to learn that this thoroughly modern British sports car dates back 10 years—although it only came to the U.S. officially for 2005.

Milestones in Elise development were the introductions of the Exige coupe, the 2-Eleven-style 340R, and a redesigned roadster, and the replacement of the original Rover engine with the 1.8-liter Toyota VVTL-i (for the U.S. launch) and supercharging that engine for the Exige S. Along the way, the same chassis, made with bonded aluminum extrusions, has been adapted to create the Opel Speedster for GM, the Lotus Europa S, and the electric Tesla roadster, and it will be further modified for Lotus's Project Eagle, a two-plus-two scheduled to appear by the end of 2008.

This is an ultra-quick car (0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, claims Lotus) that is also agile, with so much grip and responses so perfect it makes an average driver look heroic. But only on a track, because in the U.S., the Lotus 2-Eleven is not certified for public roads.

© Source: caranddriver

Spied 2009 Audi R8-RS

Audi’s R8 is already being celebrated as one of the most savory, slippery, sexalicious supercars ever to roam our roads. And, to our delight, the luxury automaker is acting more like such sports-car makers as Ferrari or Porsche by continuing to evolve the flagship sports model.

In addition to the simplified grillwork front and back and that military-grade flat gray paint job, modifications to this particular R8 mule include widened sail panels—implying the need for more air into the mid-mounted engine than satisfies the standard 4.2-liter V-8 in the regular R8—and a high-performance parts-bin braking system, complete with what appear to be Gallardo-sourced carbon-ceramic rotors coupled with large S-line calipers.

Our spy’s guess is that this is the rumored V-10 model, which makes sense, given how much the R8 shares structurally with the V-10–powered Lamborghini Gallardo.

We think there’s an equal chance, however, that this car might be powered by a high-performance diesel V-8 like that found in the Q7 4.2 TDI, where it makes 321 horsepower and an impressive 561 pound-feet of torque.

When Audi first showed us its concept for a supercar, the Le Mans Quattro, at the 2003 Frankfurt auto show, it was powered by a twin-turbo, direct-injection, gasoline V-10 developing in excess of 600 horsepower—making it more powerful than the Gallardo.

© Source: caranddriver

Spied 2010 Cadillac BRX

Although Cadillac was one of the first brands to realize the notion of the luxury SUV with its tank-sized Escalade, the brand has been notably late in further populating the luxury utility market it helped popularize.Cadillac’s first compact SUV, the BRX, will be no less tardy, set as it is to appear in 2009. It will compete in a segment that includes the Acura RDX, BMW X3, and Land Rover LR2—all of which will have enjoyed between two and five years of market traction by then. By the time the BRX goes on sale, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLK and Audi Q5 will be vying for attention.

It adds up to the fact this Caddy needs to be better than good. The BRX will be built atop a stretched version of GM’s new front- and all-wheel-drive TE platform, the same architecture used by the 2008 Saturn Vue, which is the North American version of Europe’s Opel Antara.The TE platform is a combo of the original Theta architecture found underneath the Chevy Equinox and Pontiac Torrent and the Epsilon mid-size-sedan platform that underpins the Chevrolet Malibu, Saab 9-3, and Saturn Aura.

The long-awaited Saab 9-4X crossover is also expected to be built on the TE platform. Both utes could go into production at the GM plant in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, starting in 2009, alongside the Chevrolet HHR and Saturn Vue. BRXs intended for export markets could also be assembled in Trollhättan, Sweden, alongside the Cadillac BLS sedan and wagon.Sources say the BRX will be powered by 2.8-liter and 3.6-liter V-6 engines similar to those found under the hoods of a litany of other GM products.

And although the BRX is expected to come with standard all-wheel drive, we’re not sure if this platform, with its pedestrian roots, will be able to sustain a luxury vehicle with BMW-grade performance, which is what the BRX needs to offer.At least it should look cool, based on these spy shots that appear to have photo-shopped backgrounds, but the vehicle cues seem genuine.

© Source: caranddriver

First Look 2009 Subaru Forester

Tall wagon. Small crossover. Sleeper rocket. Lesbo-chic whisk-about. The Subaru Forester has been called a lot of things, but one thing it’s never been called is good-looking. That all may change for 2009, when the Forester undergoes its first ground-up redo, featuring a three-inch-longer wheelbase, three inches of additional length, and gratefully, all-new, more macho styling.

What won’t change is its tall wagon, raised-suspension program, but the ’09 model’s off-roading capability should be heightened—literally—thanks to no less than 8.9 inches of ground clearance. Helping on-road demeanor is its stiffer, all-new platform, which utilizes a new double-wishbone rear suspension for improved cornering prowess.

As with the current model, the ’09 Forester will be powered by a choice of four-cylinder boxer motors, each displacing 2.5 liters and available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms. Better news still is that it will continue to be offered with a manual transmission, now with “Incline Start Assist”. Oh, and of course, being a Subaru, the Forester will never send its power anywhere if not to all four wheels.

The Forester will be available in a variety of flavors, from the base Forester X to the range-topping L.L. Bean Edition. Each will benefit from a more spacious cabin rendered in higher quality materials intended to distance it from its econo-car past. New interior features and options include double-stitched seat fabrics, advanced audio systems, and—finally—a navigation system. The little crossover’s safety résumé also grows to include standard stability control, in addition to surround-sound air bags with a rollover sensor.

© Source: caranddriver

Nissan Serena Highway Star

The Nissan Serena Highway Star is destined for the Japanese market. The Nissan Serena Highway Star has a very versatile interior with seats that are adjustable to 11 different positions and third-row seats that utilize assist springs. The Nissan Serena Highway Star price range is between 2,131,500 yen to 2,709,000 yen.

Nissan Releases New Serena Minivan
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Some days ago announced the release of the new Serena minivan, which goes on sale at Nissan dealers throughout Japan. The new Serena, which has been highly acclaimed by customers for its class-leading interior roominess, excellent outward visibility, flexible seating configurations and driving ease, features revised exterior and interior styling, leading technology features and a new model lineup.

New Exterior Styling
Serena’s exterior styling has been enhanced with a more distinctive and modern front end design, including a new grille, new headlights, front bumper and fenders. The Highway Star model also features more dynamic front-end styling, with even stronger character lines.

Other exterior improvements include remote-controlled power-folding body-colored outside mirrors incorporating turn signal lamps on all models, redesigned wheel covers on the 20S model and the addition of AFS to bi-xenon headlamps as Gallery: Nissan Serena Highway Star
standard on the Highway Star model, and optional on all other models.

These additions improve upon an already highly practical and stylish minivan, with large side sliding doors and low floor height for easy entry and exit, standard sliding door automatic closing feature on both sides of all models and on the 20G model, standard remote-controlled automatic sliding side doors. Eight body colors are available on the new Serena, including three new colors – a metallic Kingfisher Blue, a pearlescent Rose Red and a pearl metallic Cool Iron.

© Source: zercustoms

2008 Mercedes-Benz C300 Sport - Comparison Tests

What we noticed first inside the Mercedes-Benz C300 while running through the canyons near Ojai, California, is that the road felt as if it were coated with Crisco. Or as one staffer noted snarkily, “I’ve never hydroplaned on a dry road before, until now.” While the other sedans gripped, pounced, and powered through the corners, the Benz, wearing all-season tires that are a part of the Sport model, slid and protested its way through the Highway 33 jaunt. Mercedes does offer an 18-inch wheel upgrade for $1000 that adds dedicated performance tires, but our $37,410 example didn’t have the option and likely suffered for it as the rest of the sedans in the test benefited from having more serious performance rubber.

Step the C300 away from the performance precipice, and the Benz seemingly finds itself and connects with the driver. A comfortable ride, a nearly silent engine, a solid structure, and the low-set multifunction turn-signal stalk will have Benz owners and luxury seekers feeling right at home. Making S-class customers feel right at home should they get a C300 as a loaner is the excellent COMAND system that combines controls for navigation, audio, and a multitude of other settings into a single knob. Unlike BMW’s iDrive, the Mercedes system is intuitive and doesn’t leave an unsightly growth in the middle of the dash.

Aside from the electronics, the rest of the interior fails to impress. Much of it is made up of shiny, hard plastic that is low-rent enough to suggest that maybe it was Chrysler that divorced Mercedes. In back, a rear seat with very little space was rated the least comfortable and serves as a reminder that the C300, and the 328i, for that matter, is barely larger than a Honda Civic sedan—a Civic, in fact, has more interior space than the Benz. So Mercedes has built a refined, small sedan. It’s sporty on an intramural level; too bad the rest of the class plays on varsity.

© Source: caranddriver

2008 Volkswagen R32 - Short Take Road Tests

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 3-door hatchback
PRICE AS TESTED: $35,430 (base price: $33,630)
ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 24-valve V-6, iron block and aluminum head, port fuel injection
Displacement: 195 cu in, 3189cc
Power (SAE net): 250 bhp @ 6300 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 236 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed manual with automated shifting and clutch
DIMENSIONS: Wheelbase: 101.5 in Length: 167.2 in Width: 69.2 in Height: 57.7 in
Curb weight: 3521 lb
FUEL ECONOMY : EPA city/highway driving: 18/23 mpg

Basically, the Volkswagen R32 is a three-door GTI—already one of our favorite small cars, with a comparison-test crown and a 10Best trophy to its name—with more: a 250-hp narrow-angle V-6, all-wheel drive, a full complement of luxury features, and weight. VW manages the R32’s weight gain without losing the GTI’s playful tossability by cinching the car’s suspenders a bit tighter. Spring rates, increased just so all around, mask the additional 332 pounds quite well, leaving the GTI and the R32 nearly indistinguishable in tight Alpine switchbacks. With our test gear riding shotgun, the R32, even fitted with the no-cost-option all-season tires, managed 0.87 g on the skidpad, matching the best number posted by a production GTI in our hands (the early Euro-spec car we tested pulled 0.90 g on summer tires).

Unfortunately, the R32 manages its increase in power without a huge gain in speed over the lighter front-wheel-drive GTI. All R32s come with Volkswagen’s DSG dual-clutch sequential transmission—with launch control—so mashing the throttle yields easy, consistent hole-shots. Compared with a DSG-equipped GTI, we saw a half-second improvement in the 0-to-60-mph blast but just a 0.2-second and 2-mph lead through the quarter, with those benchmarks falling in 5.5 and 14.4 seconds at 97 mph, compared with 6.0 and 14.6 at 95.

No doubt the R32 is a special package, a rare blend of performance and comfort, and a bargain compared with other cars offering the same balance of attributes. But for $33,630, or about $6000 more than a similarly equipped GTI, some might want more than just two more driven wheels, a center-exit exhaust that emits a sexier note, and a slight calming of high-speed ride. How much is a small step toward perfection worth to you?

2009 Toyota Corolla Road Test

Base price: $15,000 (est.)
Engine: 1.8-liter four, 132 hp/128 lb-ft; XRS: 2.4-liter four, 158 hp/162 lb-ft
Transmission: Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic (base models); five-speed manual or five-speed automatic (XRS); front-wheel drive
Length x width x height: 178.7 x 69.3 x 57.7 in
Wheelbase: 102.4 in
Curb weight: 2,723-2,965 lb
Fuel economy (EPA city/hwy): 27/35 mpg (1.8-liter); 22/29 mpg (manual 2.4-liter), 22/30 mpg (automatic 2.4-liter)
Safety features: Dual front, side and curtain airbags anti-lock brakes; stability control standard on XRS Major standard features: Air conditioning; power steering; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; 60/40 split folding rear seat; AM/FM/CD (XM satellite ready) radio; outside temperature gauge; two 12-volt power outlets; driver vertical seat height adjuster
Warranty: Three years/36,000 miles

For starters, we think this new Corolla is far better looking than the near-invisible car it replaces early next year. And it steps up in power and torque to a 158-hp, 162 lb-ft, 2.4-liter 16-valve VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with "intelligence") four-cylinder engine...but only in the sportiest XRS model. The other four models, from bargain-basement base through better-equipped LE, XLE and semi-sporty S, make do with a fairly anemic 132-hp (up from the 2008 Corolla's 126) dual-VVT-i 16-valve four that pumps out just 128 lb-ft of twist (up from 122). That compares to a healthier 140 horses and an identical 128 lb-ft for the Civic's same-size four and 148 hp and a much stronger 152 lb-ft for the base '08 Cobalt's 2.2-liter four.

These new Toyota Corolla sedans roll on the same 102.4-in.wheelbase as their predecessors but sit 0.4 inches longer, 2.8 inches wider and 0.8 inches lower. The added width provides additional shoulder and hip room in front, though (for some reason) a couple inches less rear hip room. Leg room is increased about a half-inch in front and nearly an inch in back, but front head room is down a half-inch due to the lower roofline. The overall result is a slightly roomier, quieter and more comfortable cabin usable for four adults but very tight for five.

Mazda Demio Chiara

This special edition model with a brilliant custom body color and distinctive seat covers
commemorates Mazda Demio's RJC Car of the Year win

The Chiara, which means brilliant or bright in Italian, is based on the 13C-V grade Demio (the front-wheel drive (FWD) model which is powered by a 1.3-liter Miller cycle engine and a continuously variable transmission [CVT]) or the electronically controlled four-wheel drive (e-4WD) 13C grade model.

The Chiara special edition features the exclusive Golden Red Mica -- a vivid shade of red sprinkled with gold flakes – as an exterior color choice. The interior includes custom seat covers featuring a multistripe pattern, which enhances the special edition model’s distinctive style. Special equipment for the Chiara provides improved convenience through an advanced keyless entry and starter system, an auto light system, water-repellent coating for glass surfaces and rain sensing front wipers, which were all originally set as factory-installed options for the standard Demio model.

Base models
Base models are the 13C-V grade Demio (1.3-liter DOHC Miller cycle engine with a continuously variable transmission [CVT], front-wheel drive) or the 13C grade (1.3-liter DOHC engine with four-speed automatic transmission, electronically controlled four-wheel drive [e-4WD]).

© Source: zercustoms

Volkswagen Polo Match

The Volkswagen Polo model range is receiving a new version - the Volkswagen Polo Match. The Volkswagen Polo Match replaces the S level in the line-up. The Volkswagen Polo Match is equipped with 15-inch 'Charade' alloy wheels, body-colored bumper strips, door strips, door handles and wing mirrors inset into which are integrated indicators. The Volkswagen Polo Match also has a set of foglamps that are set into the twin airdams.

The new Polo Match is distinguished by a set of 15-inch ‘Charade’ alloy wheels and body-coloured bumper strips, door strips, door handles and wing mirrors inset into which are integrated indicators. At the front a pair of foglamps are set into the twin airdams.

The revisions continue to the Polo’s interior. A leather-trimmed steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake grip are joined by the option of either a six-disc CD autochanger or an iPod connection to allow access to your digital music library on the move. Practical additions include electric front windows, a split folding rear seat, height adjustment for the driver’s seat and a useful drawer under the passenger seat. All these enhancements represent an £825 improvement in value.

Powering the new Polo Match is a choice of engines ranging from the compact petrol 1.2-litre unit up to the flexible 1.4-litre TDI engine – the latter of which is placed in VED band ‘B’ equating to an annual tax bill of only £35.

Prices for the new Polo Match start at £9,315 for the 1.2-litre three-door model before rising to
£11,380 for the 1.4-litre TDI five-door variant. The Polo Match is now open for ordering at any Volkswagen Retailer. To find your nearest Volkswagen Retailer, call 0800 333 666 or visit www.volkswagen.co.uk.

© Source:zercustoms

2008 Nissan Fuga

The 2008 Nissan Fuga features two new engines: the VQ35HR and VQ25HR. The 2008 Nissan Fuga is also the first vehicle to be equipped with Nissan's Distance Control Assist (Intelligent Pedal) System. The 2008 Nissan Fuga price ranges from 3,969,000 yen to 6,279,000 yen.

The new Fuga features a revised model lineup, a redesigned exterior and interior, Nissan's new VQ35HR and VQ25HR engines and the world's first*1 Distance Control Assist (Intelligent Pedal) System*2, among other refinements, the combination of which further advances the car's all-around qualities as a premium sports sedan.
Living up to its marketing tagline of “SHIFT_luxury,” Fuga transforms the traditional notion of a luxury car. Fuga is available in three grades (GT, GT Type S and GT Type P) for three engine variations (V6 2.5-liter, V6 3.6-liter and V8 4.5-liter). 4WD version is available for 350GT.

A Responsive Driveline
Fuga showcases the latest in Nissan engine technology with its choice of 3.5-liter VQ35HR and 2.5-liter VQ25HR engines, which combine high levels of power and torque with low fuel consumption, as well as producing sounds that befit its position as a sports luxury machine.

Both powerplants are backed by a standard full-range electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with a DS mode. The DS mode works to provide maximum performance by optimizing gear selection for the applicable driving conditions. Additional control is available through magnesium paddle shifters, which are standard on the GT Type S model. (4.5-liter VK45DE engine is also available for 2WD models.)

Mazda MX 5 Niseko

The Mazda MX-5 Niseko comes in two version: a 1.8i powered version and a 2.0i. The Mazda MX-5 Niseko soft-top is powered by a 1.8 liter engine and will be available in UK in 240 units at a starting price of 17,995 pounds. The Mazda MX-5 Niseko roadster coupe is powered by a 2.0 liter engine and will be available in 560 units at a price of pounds.

The latest Mazda MX-5 can truly be described as an all-weather, all-year sports car with its enhanced heating and air-conditioning systems.
Now, to celebrate its continuing status as ‘Britain’s favourite sports car brand’ this winter, Mazda is introducing a pair of special edition ‘Niseko’ models, named after Japan’s most prestigious skiing resort.

As the latest edition of the world’s best selling roadster, the rear-wheel drive Mazda MX-5 Niseko boasts unrivalled handling and driving dynamics, and represents extremely competitive value for money. Available from £17,995 on-the-road, the Niseko offers up to £2,000 worth of additional or exclusive extras over and above the equivalent standard models.

On sale from 1 January 2008, both the ‘entry-level’ 1.8i Niseko soft-top (126ps, five-speed) and the £19,995 2.0i Niseko roadster coupe (160ps, six-speed) are available in an exclusive new bespoke colour ‘Icy Blue’ metallic, as well as Sunlight Silver metallic – for no additional charge.

As well as adding the special Niseko features, the generous standard equipment of the donor vehicles ensures that buyers can enjoy: driver’s seat height adjustment, electric windows, central locking, MP3-compatible radio/single CD player with six-speaker audio system, climate control air-conditioning, stainless-steel scuff plates, twin chrome exhaust tail pipes and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser. Despite all of the additional specification, both Mazda MX-5 Niseko special editions remain in the same insurance groups as their standard counterparts – 11E (1.8i) and 13E (2.0i).

© Source: zercustoms

2002 Peugeot H2O Concept

H2O is not just a futurist fire prevention vehicle produced by the creative people at Peugeot. H2O produces electricity and water using fuel cell battery technology. Hidden underneath the playful and dynamic appearance of a fire engine lies a very innovative propulsion method. H2O, built on a Partner Electric base, uses the fuel cell battery as a source of on-board energy and features a major innovation for this technology: the hydrogen is produced in real time, based on the system's needs, which means it can overcome the problems associated with storing pressurized hydrogen.

With its generously proportioned air intake, feline-shaped lights and plunging muzzle-like bonnet, the front of the vehicle is strongly identified with the Lion. The rear is reserved for the tank and a telescopic ladder. At the bottom of the rear end panel, instead of the exhaust (no longer needed) there are two connections for the water feed or the branch pipe. Naturally, the colour is "fire engine red", reflected in the interior with nicely matching touches of metal.

The cabin is designed for 2 firemen and to hold modern command and operating equipment, such as GPS, telephone and a touch screen on the dashboard. A second screen is linked to a PC and shows the map of the buildings.

2008 Lancia Delta

According to various websites the new generation of the Lanci Delta will be shown for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The 2008 Lancia Delta is scheduled to be launched in June next year.

The 2008 Lancia Delta will be based on the Lancia Delta HPE that you can see in the pictures. The Lancia Delta HPE was presented for the first time at the Paris Motor Show last year.

The Lancia Delta model range is most famous for the success it had in the World Rally Championship with the Lancia Delta Integrale.

© Source: zercustoms

Euro NCAP: five stars for New Renault Laguna

Laguna II was the first vehicle to ever achieve a five-star rating in the passive safety assessment tests carried out by the independent body, Euro NCAP. It was a result that took the car into a new era. Today, it’s the turn of New Laguna to achieve the same maximum five-star rating. With a total of 36 points from a possible 37, one of the highest scores ever recorded in the tests, the newcomer even outperformed its predecessor to once again highlight Renault's expertise in the realm of passive safety. In addition to its Euro NCAP credentials, New Laguna delivers reassuring handling thanks to its precise, responsive chassis, while at the same time ensuring a level of braking and technology that puts it at the top end of its category in real-life motoring conditions.

Systematic work into optimising the protection of all occupants
As Laguna II was the first vehicle to achieve a five-star rating in the Euro NCAP safety assessment tests, it was only natural that New Laguna should strive to innovate even further. Renault consequently developed a range of new solutions which take into account research into road accidents and real-life situations in a more holistic and effective manner to ensure the safety of all occupants. To guarantee enhanced protection, New Laguna evolved to ensure that its latest-generation protection equipment was triggered even faster. All configurations are now controlled by a triple algorithm in a bid to optimise protection performance in different impact situations (complex front, rear and side impacts). This effective system is combined with either six or eight airbags (optional rear thorax airbags from the second equipment level up) which are positioned all round the passengers.

For effective front impact protection, New Laguna is equipped with two new-generation dual-volume adaptive airbags and a sensor mounted on the driver's side seat-rail. When deployed, the form and volume of the front airbag adapts to the driver's size and seating position, optimising the way the load is spread out across the passenger's head and thorax. Meanwhile, each one of the three-point seatbelts is equipped with a load limiter (set at 400 and 600daN). The double pretensioners now act on each extremity of the front seatbelts (outer side of the lap-strap and reel). This solution combines with the anti-submarining hump built into the Seat cushion to hold the groin against the Seat and improve retention of the thorax in the case of frontal impact. The fixed central stalk has been improved to facilitate the belt's attachment, whilst at the rear, pretensioners and Isofix anchorage points are available for the outer seats.

Side impacts are a major cause of fatality, so specific work has gone into this domain with spectacular results. To reduce impact detection and reaction times by up to half, New Laguna features a system based on two sensors incorporated in the front door and B-pillar. A special algorithm automatically adjusts the system's response time to match the impact's force and controls a new-generation, twin-chamber, dual-pressure side airbag which protects both the thorax, which is more fragile, and the more resistant groin area. Legislation dictates that protection should be effective up to 31 mph, but New Laguna provides effective protection up to 44 mph.

New Laguna is also equipped with warning lights which warn if any of the five seatbelts are not fastened, plus an audible alarm in the case of the front seats. The seat-frames have been re-designed for enhanced efficiency and comfort. Although thinner, the seatbacks offer no impediment to the back, while protection of the neck in the case of rear impact has been improved too, thanks to new-generation headrests with built in slide-rails.

Safety in its genes and equipment
In addition to contributing to driving pleasure, weight optimisation also makes a major contribution to safety, giving shorter stopping distances to enhance active safety and less inertia in an impact to improve passive safety. New Laguna represents an average saving of 15kg across the range (up to 65kg in the case of the eco² 110hp diesel version) and this remarkable achievement makes it the first Renault model to be lighter than its predecessor, yet also safer in terms of protection thanks to its programmed collapse structure which has been engineered to absorb energy under impact, thereby sparing the cabin and ensuring that occupants are afforded the highest possible degree of protection.

In addition to its impressive chassis, New Laguna features class-leading braking performance. The new electro-hydraulic control unit incorporates the Brake Assist function which is triggered more quickly and with greater precision since it is insensitive to mechanical variations. Thanks to a 'pre-fill' function, the system prepares a build-up in hydraulic pressure if the driver's right foot suddenly lifts off the accelerator pedal. The combination of the chassis and more precise, auto-adaptive digital modelling of the vehicle's handling allows emergency situations to be detected more accurately. ABS and ESP are both standard and have been made more efficient by cutting in at the ideal moment to prevent jarring.

As well as the work which has gone into the technical aspects of New Laguna’s safety credentials, its cabin ergonomics also leaves drivers free to concentrate on the job of driving. Motoring data is displayed in a clearer, more graphic form, while the matrix dashboard display features several colours and its format varies as a function of the quantity and type of data being shown. The optional bi-xenon headlamps turn in relation to the vehicle's speed and steering wheel angle, giving up to 90 per cent extra light under cornering compared with halogen headlamps.

New Laguna also comes with modern driver aids such as cruise control, speed limiter, tyre pressure monitoring system, navigation systems and voice- or fingertip-controlled Bluetooth telephone equipment, as well as automatic headlamp and windscreen-wiper activation, plus front and rear parking sensors.

A pragmatic, committed approach
Renault's approach to safety is based on the study of real-life accidents and situations in a bid to provide products that are suited to the realities of motoring. The priority is consequently placed on providing the most efficient technologies possible to prevent the risk of having an accident, to take corrective action when faced with an unexpected driving situation and to protect passengers in the case of impact. Renault, which has long favoured a holistic approach that is not restricted to a single type of equipment or technology, has emerged over the years as the benchmark manufacturer when it comes to safety.

Laguna II	Five stars (2001 and 2003), the first ever car to achieve this degree of safety
Vel Satis	Five stars (2002 and 2005)
Mégane II	Five stars (2002)
Espace IV	Five stars (2003)
Kangoo	Four stars (2003)
Scénic II	Five stars (2003), a first for a vehicle of this segment
Modus	Five stars (2004), a first for a vehicle of this category
Mégane II Coupé-Cabriolet	Five stars (2004)
Clio III	Five stars (2005)
New Twingo	Four stars (2007)
New Laguna	Five stars (2007)

2009 Corvette ZR1 Powered By The Most Powerful Production Engine Ever From GM

When it arrives next summer, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 will be the most powerful and fastest production car ever produced by General Motors, with performance enabled by a new, supercharged 6.2L LS9 small-block V-8 engine.

Incorporating the engineering experience already found in the Corvette Z06’a LS7 engine and the new-for-2008 6.2L LS3 of the Corvette, GM Powertain is targeting 100 horsepower per liter for the LS9, or 620 horsepower (462 kW), and approximately 595 lb.-ft. of torque (807 Nm); final SAE-certified power levels will be available in early March 2008.

It is, indeed, the ultimate small-block engine for the ultimate Corvette.

“When you experience the LS9 in the Corvette ZR1, the terms performance and refinement take on a new meaning,” said Tom Stephens, group vice president for GM Powertrain and Quality. “The LS9 demonstrates an outstanding performance range, with smooth driveability at low speeds, and surprisingly fierce performance when the customer wants more power.”

The enabler of the LS9’s performance is a new, large positive-displacement Roots-type supercharger – with a unique four-lobe design – developed for the engine by Eaton. It is teamed with an integrated charge cooling system that reduces inlet air temperature for maximum performance. The LS9 represents the first of several new, supercharged small-block engines that will be introduced in GM vehicles in the near future, each using superchargers of similar design.

“The small-block V-8 once again demonstrates it boundless horsepower potential, versatile design and an architecture with proven quality, durability and reliability,” said Stephens. “We haven’t yet realized the small-block’s performance potential.”

Performance range

More than just its tremendous peak horsepower and torque numbers, the supercharged LS9 makes big power at lower rpm and carries it in a wide arc to 6,600 rpm. GM Powertrain testing shows the engine makes approximately 300 horsepower (224 kW) at 3,000 rpm and nearly 320 lb.-ft. of torque (434 Nm) at only 1,000 rpm. Torque tops 585 lb.-ft. (793 Nm) at about the 4,000-rpm mark, while horsepower peaks at 6,500 rpm. The engine produces 90 percent of peak torque from 2,600 rpm to 6,000 rpm.

Heavy-duty and lightweight reciprocating components enable the engine’s confident high-rpm performance, while the large-displacement Eaton supercharger pushes enough air to help the engine maintain power through the upper levels of the rpm band.

“The sixth-generation design of the supercharger expands the ‘sweet zone’ of the compressor’s effectiveness, broadening it to help make power lower in the rpm band,” said Ron Meegan, assistant chief engineer. “To put it simply, the low-end torque is amazing.”

The LS9 is assembled by hand at GM’s Performance Build Center, a unique, small-volume engine production facility in Wixom, Mich., that also builds the Corvette Z06’s LS7 engine and other high-performance GM production engines.

Cylinder block and reciprocating assembly details

The LS9’s aluminum cylinder block features steel, six-bolt main bearing caps, with enlarged vent windows in the second and third bulkheads for enhanced bay to bay breathing. Cast iron cylinder liners – measuring 4.06 inches (103.25 mm) in bore diameter – are inserted in the aluminum block and they are finish-bored and honed with a deck plate installed. The deck plate simulates the pressure and minute dimensional variances applied to the block when the cylinder heads are installed, ensuring a higher degree of accuracy that promotes maximum cylinder head sealing, piston ring fit and overall engine performance.

Nestled inside the cylinder block is a forged steel crankshaft that delivers the LS9’s 3.62-inch (92 mm) stroke. It features a smaller-diameter ignition-triggering reluctor wheel and a nine-bolt flange – the outer face of the crankshaft on which the flywheel is mounted – that provides more clamping strength. Other non-supercharged 6.2L engines, such as the base Corvette’s LS3, have a six-bolt flange. A torsional damper mounted to the front of the crankshaft features a keyway and friction washer, which also is designed to support the engine’s high loads.

Attached to the crankshaft is a set of titanium connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons, which, when combined with the cylinder heads, delivers a 9.1:1 compression ratio. This combination is extremely durable and lightweight, enabling the LS9’s high-rpm capability.

Cylinder head details

The basic cylinder head design of the LS9 is similar to the L92-type head found on the LS3 V-8, but it is cast with a premium A356T6 alloy that is better at handling the heat generated by the supercharged engine – particularly in the bridge area of the cylinder head, between the intake and exhaust valves.

In addition to the special aluminum alloy, each head is created with a rotocast method. Also known as spin casting, the process involves pouring the molten alloy into a rotating mold. This makes for more even distribution of the material and virtually eliminates porosity – air bubbles or pockets trapped in the casting – for a stronger finished product.

Although the heads are based on the L92 design, they feature swirl-inducing wings that are cast into the intake ports. This improves the mixture motion of the pressurized air/fuel charge. The charge enters the combustion chambers via titanium intake valves that measure 2.16 inches (55 mm) in diameter. Spent gases exit the chambers through 1.59-inch (40.4 mm) hollow stem sodium-filled exhaust valves. The titanium intake and sodium-filled exhaust valves are used for their lightweight and high-rpm capability.

To ensure sealing of the pressurized engine, unique, four-layer steel head gaskets are used with the LS9’s heads.

Camshaft and valvetrain

The broad power band enabled by the LS9’s large-displacement supercharger allows it to make strong low-end torque and great high-rpm horsepower, which allowed engineers to specify a camshaft with a relatively low lift of 0.555-inch (14.1 mm) for both the intake and exhaust valves. This low-overlap cam has lower lift and slower valve-closing speeds than the Z06’s 505-horsepower (377 kW) LS7, helping the LS9 – with its approximately 620 horsepower – deliver exemplary idle and low-speed driving qualities.

The camshaft actuates a valvetrain that includes many components, including the lifters, rocker arms and valve springs, of the LS3 engine. However, LS7 retainers are used to support the engine’s high-rpm performance.

Supercharger and charge cooler details

The LS9’s R2300 supercharger is a sixth-generation design from Eaton, with a case that is specific to the Corvette application. The supercharger features a new four-lobe rotor design that promotes quieter and more efficient performance, while its large, 2.3-liter displacement ensures adequate air volume at high rpm to support the engine’s high-horsepower aspiration. Maximum boost pressure is 10.5 psi (0.72 bar).

The supercharger is an engine-driven air pump that contains a pair of long rotors that are twisted somewhat like pretzel sticks. As they spin around each other, incoming air is squeezed between the rotors and pushed under pressure into the engine – forcing more air into the engine than it could draw under “natural” aspiration. The rotors are driven by a pulley and belt that are connected to the engine’s accessory drive system.

Because the pressurized air is hotter than naturally aspirated air, the LS9 employs a liquid-to-air charge cooling system to reduce inlet air temperature after it exits the supercharger – reducing the inlet air temperature by up to 60 degrees C (140 F). Cooler air is denser and allows the engine to make the most of its high-pressure air charge. The charge cooling system includes a dedicated coolant circuit with a remote-mounted pump and reservoir.

The design of the supercharger case and its integrated charge cooling system was driven by the space and dimensions afforded under the Corvette’s hood. To that end, the charge cooler was designed as a “dual brick” system, with a pair of low-profile heat exchangers mounted longitudinally on either side of the supercharger. Coupled with the supercharger itself, this integrated design mounts to the engine in place of a conventional intake manifold and is only slightly taller than a non-supercharged 6.2L engine. The air inlet and rotor drive pulley are positioned at the front of the supercharger.

Additional engine details

Oiling system: The LS9 uses a dry-sump oiling system that is similar in design to the LS7’s system, but features a higher-capacity pump to ensure adequate oil pressure at the higher cornering loads the ZR1 is capable of achieving. An oil-pan mounted oil cooler is integrated, too, along with piston-cooling oil squirters located in the cylinder block. The expanded performance envelope of the Corvette ZR1 required changes to the dry sump system also used in the Z06. System capacity is increased and scavenge performance improved to meet the demands of Chevrolet's highest-performance sportscar.

Water pump: To compensate for the heavier load generated by the supercharger drive system, an LS9-specific water pump with increased bearing capacity is used.

Accessory drive system: In order to package the accessory drive system in the Corvette’s engine compartment, the supercharger drive was integrated into the main drive system. This required a wider 11-rib accessory drive system to be used with the LS9 in order to support the load delivered by the supercharger.

Fuel system: The LS9 uses high-capacity 48-lb./hr. fuel injectors with center-feed fuel lines. The center feed system ensures even fuel flow between the cylinders with less noise. In order to ensure fuel system performance during low speed operation as well as under the extreme performance requirements of wide open throttle (WOT), a dual pressure fuel system was developed. This system operates at 250 kPa at idle and low speed, and ratchets up to 600 kPa at higher-speed and WOT conditions.

Throttle body: An 87-mm, single-bore throttle body is used to draw air into the engine. It is electronically controlled.

Rocker covers / ignition coils: Unique rocker covers with new, direct-mount ignition coils are used. Other Gen IV engines, such as the LS3, feature coil packs mounted to a bracket. The LS9’s direct-mounted coils offer a cleaner appearance and a shorter lead between the coil and spark plug.

Beauty cover: A special engine cover is attached to the top of the LS9. It surrounds the intercooler, which is visible through a hood window, accenting the supercharger while simultaneously reducing noise. The cover has “LS9 SUPERCHARGED” script on the left and right sides, along with a debossed Corvette crossed flags emblem on the front.

New six-speed manual transmission

The Corvette ZR1’s LS9 engine is backed by a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission, with a twin-disc clutch system. It is based on the proven T56 six-speed, but upgraded to handle the LS9’s torque output and delivers improved shift quality

The twin-disc clutch system provides exceptional clamping power, while maintaining an easy clutch effort. The system employs a pair of 260-mm discs, which spreads out the engine’s torque load over a wider area, enabling tremendous clamping power to channel the LS9’s torque. It also dissipates heat better and extends the clutch life (in normal driving).

Thanks to comparatively small plates, the twin-disc system enables similar disc inertia to the Corvette Z06, which has a 290-mm single-disc system, contributing to low shift effort and providing exceptionally smooth engagement and light pedal effort. In fact, the more powerful ZR1 has a pedal effort similar to the Z06.

ZR1-specific gearing in the transmission provides a steep first-gear ratio that helps launch the car. The car’s top speed is achieved in sixth gear – a change from the fifth-gear top-speed run-outs in the manual-transmission Corvette and Corvette Z06. The gears also are designed to balance performance with refinement. The angles of the gear teeth are optimized to provide both strength and quietness.

Swedish luxury - reconstructing luxury

Quiet beauty, rather than flashy bling. That is the essence of Swedish luxury. Designer entrepreneur and trend analyst Mathilda Tham jumps in a Volvo S80 Executive to go looking for the roots of Swedish style - and ends up in nature and tranquillity.

Luxury, throughout history, has stood for that which is rare and precious. In Western affluent society, with its abundance of consumer goods, it follows that commodities without a price tag, such as the experience of simplicity, silence, time, care and trust have become the new luxury.

With the Volvo S80 Executive, Volvo Car Corporation enters the luxury segment. But the company doesn't forget its core values: Safety and modern design.

These values are firmly rooted in the Swedish heritage - the quiet beauty of the landscape, the care about the environment and the attention to functional detail. Swedish luxury is quiet, simple, with a fine eye for exquisite details and intelligent functionality, following the ethos that ‘true beauty comes from the inside'. It offers an alternative to the flashy ‘bling' culture prominent in recent years and targets an audience with a confident, conscious and intelligent perspective, a customer that seeks a car that signals good taste.

Silvia Güllsdorf, project director of the new S80 Executive, says of the Swedish take on luxury:

"Swedes wear discrete and stylistically clean jewellery rather than chucky gold chains. Swedish furniture has a simple and pure aesthetic, yet offers high functionality. The refined and educated eye can understand both the design and the quality that is characteristic of Swedish luxury."

To understand the new dimension of luxury that Volvo Car Corporation offers with the Volvo S80 Executive we must explore the rich Swedish heritage.

"Stockholm's archipelago is Sweden's best secret, says José L. Diaz de la Vega , Chief Designer Strategic Design, Volvo Cars."

He has been with the company for seventeen years and describes how he loves the simple beauty of the Swedish landscape, a love he shares with the Swedes who cherish the country's beautiful lakes, wide meadows and open coastlines.
The landscape proved an important influence when the new Volvo S80 Executive was designed. Soft, yet distinct lines define the car's silhouette, and the gently curved instrument panel takes our thoughts to a meadow dressed in recently fallen snow.

The clean countryside and the Nordic light are translated into ingenious design solutions that create a home away from home, a haven. An important aspect of Swedish luxury is this very access to tranquillity, nature, space and time for solitude. In addition to safety, the car's spacious interior, and the craftsmanship of the hand-selected leather, offer an experience of feeling cared for. Such features communicate that time and thought have been dedicated by the design team to secure supreme comfort and safety.

The aim is to offer the customer a comfortable, dynamic and safe drive with full control over both the car and the surrounding traffic. The S80 is the first Volvo offering Adaptive Cruise Control with Collision Warning and Brake Support. This system maintains a selected distance to the vehicle in front. If the gap closes so fast that a collision is likely, the system alerts the driver and pre-loads the braking system. To Swedes and to most people of the world, the ability to care about yourself and your passengers is an appreciated form of luxury offered by the S80 Executive.

Swedes, however, don't like to brag. Consequently, they have traditionally been careful about showing off. While Volvo has always been known as a safe car of the premium quality, it is now time to reinforce Volvo Cars' position in the luxury segment.

As Chief Designer Strategic Design José L. Diaz de la Vega explains it:

"Coming from another culture, it was obvious to me that Swedes traditionally have shunned the luxurious, it has been shameful to indulge. In recent years the luxury perspective of the continent has influenced the Swedes but it is clear that they seek more understated and intelligent pleasure. With the new Volvo S80 Executive we have cracked the code of the unique Swedish luxury. Our new luxury car radiates prestigious, yet celebrates the simplicity of modern Swedish design."

Wherever in the world you may live, you can indulge in Swedish luxury behind the wheel of a new Volvo S80. It is the luxury of driving comfortably, safely and in great style.

Holden VE Ute Crowned The Reader's Favourite

Carsguide announced GM Holden's VE Ute SV6 has won their inaugural Reader's Choice award, one of three cars awarded in the 2007 carsguide Car of the Year awards.

The VE Ute SV6 received almost 20 per cent of the entries registered through the carsguide.com.au website to pick up the award.

All 11 of the carsguide's Car of the Year finalists were in the running, however the VE Ute SV6 took the honours and was described by the Courier Mail's motoring editor, Mark Hinchliffe, as "simply the best-riding ute Australia has produced."

Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Chris Gubbey, said it was an award the whole of GM Holden should be proud to boast.

"To be recognised by car enthusiasts and consumers is a great honour. After all, this is who we build cars for," Mr Gubbey said.

"And because the VE Ute is a vehicle that's conceived, designed, engineered and built from the ground up by employees here in Australia, it makes it even more special.

"Australians have a unique relationship with the Holden Ute and it is fantastic to know that they are as enthusiastic about it as we are proud."

The Daily Telegraph's motoring editor, Kevin Hepworth, praised the car for demonstrating all the inherent benefits of a ute combined with the considerable styling and dynamic advances of the VE range.

"This is simply a fun car that can be driven with all the verve of a sports car, simply cruised along as a comfortable and competent transport, or put to work." Mr Hepworth said.

"Out on the road, the Ute really shines with a compliant suspension that soaks up the worst Australia's country roads can throw at it while relaxing back to a very comfortable highway cruiser."

Alan Jones, editor of carsguide.com.au, said he was delighted with the response to the inaugural carsguide Readers Choice award.

"It's a truly national award supported by News Limited newspapers in every state, and online via carsguide.com.au," Mr Jones said.

"With that level of response from across the country, you couldn't ask for a clearer result: the nation's heart still belongs to this latest iteration of arguably its most iconic car; the Aussie Holden Ute."

This is the first award claimed by the VE Ute which was launched in October and started arriving in Holden Dealerships earlier this month.

Nissan Arctix Sport Adventure X-Trail

Nissan will launch a special version of the 150PS 2.0dCi X-Trail known as ‘Arctix Sports Adventure’ providing additional specifications and automatic transmission for a price close to the standard manual version.

• ARCTIX 150PS 2.0dCi automatic £21,995 (OTR) – eXtreme roof rails and lamps with snowstorm side steps
• ARCTIX eXpedition 150PS 2.0dCi automatic or 173 manual £22,995 (OTR) - eXtreme roof rails and lamps with snowstorm side steps, satellite navigation and colour rear view camera
• On sale now with deliveries expected early January

With the winter ski season just about upon us, Nissan is providing the perfect travel partner in the form of a Nissan X-Trail Arctix. Powered by a fuel efficient 150PS 2.0dCi engine through a 6 speed automatic gearbox the vehicle is the ideal long distance traveller.

Should the weather conditions deteriorate the all-mode-i 4x4 drive system is designed to keep you sure footed to the road. If visibility is poor switch on the front fog lamps and eXtreme roof rail lamps, whilst on full beam, and see the road ahead light up. Uphill starts, greater than 10 degrees, are assisted by the brakes being applied for a short while after releasing the brake pedal and if the descent gets a bit steep, then the downhill drive support will ease you down gently and safely at no more than 4mph. Cruise control will make motorways a pleasure and once at your destination, the black and silver snowstorm side steps will aid your exit from the vehicle.

The boot has a wipe clean rear floor area along with 603 litres of storage space behind the rear seats, extending to 1773 litres with the rear seats folded down. Underneath is a double floor trunk section with a pull out drawer for storing smaller items. Longer items such as skis can be slotted through the ski hatch located between the rear Seat armrest. or, if preferred, clipped into an accessory ski roof rack* fitted between the standard eXtreme roof rails. Protecting the carpets are unique ARCTIX floor mats.

If you need help to get you to the European snow resorts then for a further £1000 the Nissan ‘Arctix eXpedition’ is equipped with Nissan’s acclaimed DVD navigation system. Covering 23 countries throughout Europe, it is the best way to eliminate any map reading arguments between driver and passenger. The system also incorporates a colour rear view camera to aid parking by showing a clear image of the view behind when reversing.

Arctix eXpedition comes with a choice of engines; the same 150PS 2.0dCi with automatic transmission or a higher powered 173PS 2.0dCi unit, linked with a manual gearbox, for the same price of £22,995 (OTR).

Trim and equipment details for Nissan Arctix and Nissan Arctix eXpedition X-Trail’s are similar to SPORT grade with 17 inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, privacy glass, CD autochanger with 6 speakers, Bluetooth® phone integration, climate control air conditioning, automatic headlamps and rain sensing wipers. Upholstery is a charcoal coloured cloth weave whilst the exterior can be selected within a choice of six paint colours: Pearl White, Thundercloud, Twilight Grey, Ebisu Black, Atlas Blue and Chilli Pepper Red.

Vehicles will be available in showrooms from 2 January 2008 and come complete with Nissan’s peace of mind 3-year or 60,000 mile warranty (whichever comes first), 3-year paint and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.

2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Garners Five Stars in Euro-NCAP Test

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class has passed the European NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme) crash tests with flying colours. The Saloon has therefore been awarded five stars and, according to the Euro-NCAP organisation, is one of the safest cars available on the market.

2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Euro NCAP Testing

This result is confirmation that the C-Class safety concept, optimised based on the analysis of real-life accidents, also performs extremely well in standardised rating crash tests. With seven airbags, seat-belt tensioners, belt-force limiters and NECK PRO crash-responsive head restraints fitted as standard, the Saloon offers its occupants an extremely high level of protection should an accident occur. The body structure has been designed to ensure that, in the event of a frontal collision, the impact forces are distributed over a wide area and on four independently acting impact levels, meaning that the passenger cell remains largely unscathed.

2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Euro NCAP Testing

Around 70 percent of all the bodywork panels are made from state-of-the-art, high-strength steel alloys that minimise weight and maximise safety. These steel grades also play a key role in protecting the occupants in the event of a side impact. The quadruple-skinned B-pillars and the side members, which absorb the bulk of any side-impact forces and channel these forces into the body structure, are made partially from ultra-high-strength, hot-formed high-tech steel.

The C-Class safety systems are based on a tried-and-trusted Mercedes concept that takes a holistic approach towards passenger-car safety, with the emphasis firmly on accident avoidance and anticipatory occupant protection.

2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Euro NCAP Testing

Standard-fit systems such as ESP® and Brake Assist aid drivers at critical moments and help them to remain fully in control should a dangerous situation arise. Accident statistics show that the number of accidents caused by skidding and head-to-tail collisions with serious consequences is reduced significantly if these Mercedes technologies are on board. In addition, Brake Assist also helps to reduce the number of accidents involving pedestrians. Furthermore, the C-Class is the world's only car in this market segment to feature an anticipatory occupant protection system in the shape of PRE‑SAFE®. Available as an optional extra, this Mercedes-Benz innovation uses the time between detection of a potential accident situation and a possible collision to initiate preventive protective measures, thus reducing the loads exerted on the occupants in the event of an accident by up to 40 percent.

2008 Lexus LX 570 Features Mark Levinson Reference Surround

The introduction of the 2008 Lexus LX 570 all-new luxury utility vehicle, afforded Lexus' exclusive entertainment system partner, Mark Levinson, the opportunity to implement a discrete 5.1 surround sound system equal in both luxury and performance to the vehicle in which it will be housed. The result was Mark Levinson Reference Surround, a 19-speaker, 450-watt audio system initially designed for and launched on the 2007 LS 460 and now available for the first time in the all-new 2008 LX 570.

2008 Lexus LX 570

What Constitutes "Reference Surround?"

Mark Levinson Reference Surround was conceived and designed specifically for Lexus' flagship LS sedan. Building on the foundation of Mark Levinson's "next generation" Premium Surround Systems that have been firmly established in the marketplace by the new Lexus GS, IS and ES, the designers and engineers from Mark Levinson identified the differentiating performance objectives necessary to legitimately earn the "Reference" moniker: Timbre Accuracy, Timbre Matching and Dynamics.

Timbre Accuracy required the engineering of a new four-inch midrange transducer with an extended low-frequency response. The full fundamental bandwidth of a vocal tenor, for example, can be reproduced by this single midrange transducer without introducing timbral colorations and time-alignment problems typically encountered when using multiple transducers.

Timbre Matching is achieved by mating this new four-inch midrange with a one-inch titanium dome tweeter to create a high-performance, two-way system. Identical two-way systems are then employed in all seven channels, ensuring timbral matching. This creates a well-integrated, seamless 360-degree sound space in which the individual speaker locations seem to disappear, each performer is reproduced with full-range realism regardless of channel assignment, and the spatial intentions of the artist and engineer are made apparent.
Professional mixing engineers, endorsed by several academic acoustical organizations, have been utilizing the technique of identical speakers for all channels since the introduction of discrete surround sound.

Dynamics, the realistic contrast between the loudest and softest musical phrase or movie sound effect, are difficult to capture and reproduce without introducing compression and distortion. Mark Levinson engineering overcame this performance obstacle by designing all-new woofers and a subwoofer for the Reference Surround system: high-power, long-excursion 6x9 woofers for the front doors; 6.5-inch metal-cone woofers for the rear doors; and a 10-inch cast-basket high-power subwoofer housed in a 22-liter enclosure integrated into the rear passenger-side cargo area sidewall trim. All utilize powerful yet lightweight neodymium magnets. The new ML3-16 processor/amplifier, designed for the Reference Surround system, is configured to provide two bridged channels, 100 watts, to each of the front-door woofers and the integrated rear subwoofer. The combination of available power and transducers custom designed for this application successfully results in effortless and complete reproduction of the low-frequency portion of dynamic passages and movie effects with minimal levels of distortion and coloration.

Mark Levinson Reference Surround delivers the harmonic richness and superb musicality previously available only in high-end home and studio-reproduction applications. The emotional resonance and unerring clarity of your favorite musical and cinematic performances are reproduced effortlessly and faithfully, further enhancing the exceptional experience of owning and driving the all-new 2008 Lexus LX 570.

Mark Levinson Reference Surround Feature Highlights

19 Speakers – The LX 570 features seven one-inch tweeters, seven four-inch midranges, two 6x9 woofers, two 6.5-inch woofers, and one 10-inch cast basket subwoofer. The midranges, woofers and subwoofers were all custom designed specifically to achieve Mark Levinson Reference Surround's rigorous performance specifications.

15 Channels, 450 Watts – The all-new ML3-16 Mark Levinson Digital Signal Processor/Amplifier in the LX 570 produces a total power output of 450 watts, all channels driven, 20-20kHz @ less than .1% Total Harmonic Distortion. Retaining the high-performance design philosophy of Mark Levinson Power Amplifiers for home use, the amplifier circuitry in the ML3-16 is discrete, utilizing individual transistors, capacitors, and resistors. This technique provides a level of electrical and sonic performance not available from the integrated power circuits typically used in automotive audio systems.

Proprietary Metal-Cone 6.5-inch Woofers, Midranges, and Tweeters – Metal-cone and dome geometries offer greater cone rigidity and lower mass. Rare earth neodymium magnet/motor structures provide higher magnetic flux levels in a smaller and lighter transducer package. The sonic benefits of both technologies include the following:
– Lower distortion – higher resolution,
– Greater sound pressure levels – natural dynamics,
– Extended frequency response – harmonic richness and musicality.

10-inch High Power Subwoofer – Providing the deepest bass fundamentals from the most efficient, heat dissipating design possible, this neodymium magnet subwoofer is housed in a 22-liter enclosure, which allows the cast basket subwoofer to utilize 100 watts of low distortion power in the reproduction of high-energy, low-frequency effects and bass passages without taking up cargo space.

Discrete 5.1 Playback in a 7.1-Channel Surround Sound Speaker Architecture – Separate side and surround channels provide an extraordinary sense of envelopment and depth for front- and rear-seat passengers.

Mark Levinson Surround (MLS) Audio Software – This innovative, proprietary software intelligently creates a large sonic "sweet spot," positions phantom center-channel material within the soundstage as intended, and provides the full discrete 5.1 surround-sound experience to the rear-seat passengers. MLS also provides a surround-sound experience for stereo-source material such as CD, FM and satellite radio. MLS is the only expression of surround sound that has been specifically designed and optimized to overcome the acoustic obstacles of presenting surround sound in an automotive passenger cabin.

Media Compatibility – CD, CD-R, DTS 5.1 CD, DVD video, and DVD audio discs.

Format Compatibility – Two-channel stereo (analog and PCM), two-channel Surround Sound, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS 5.1, MP3, WMA, and an auxiliary input for mobile audio products, enabling an iPod or other device to be connected directly to the LX audio system.

All-Digital Signal Path – Fragile audio signals are often transmitted from the front to the back of the car in an analog format, subjecting them to sonic degradation from noise and magnetic interference as well as numerous conversion processes between analog and digital. To avoid noise pickup and unnecessary, potentially degrading conversion steps, Mark Levinson Reference Surround transmits digital information from the disc to the discrete-topology power amplifiers via SPDIF (Sony Philips Digital Interface Format); 24-bit word lengths are supported.

The LX Voicing – Over 4,000 man-hours of laboratory and on-road voicing optimize Mark Levinson Reference Surround for the specific acoustic characteristics of the LX 570 passenger cabin.

First Drive 2008 Renault Twingo

Beloved in France, the Renault Twingo that arrived in 1993 was undoubtedly one revolutionary little car. Small, but with a roomy (for its size) interior, the Twingo’s big round headlights and squat stance earned it the nickname of la grenouille (“the frog”). Roughly 2.4 million copies were sold during its life span, but after 14 years on the market and a couple of mild face lifts—plus countless special editions—the original frog had finally croaked its last. The new, more refined and mature Twingo arrived in France this past summer and officially bid adieu to the wide-eyed headlights and egg-shaped body of the original.

Unlike its equally new big brother, the Laguna, the tiny Twingo manages a smidgen of cuteness. Its tall greenhouse, very short front and rear overhangs, and upright silhouette have a jaunty charm. Far from being as adorable as the new Fiat 500, the Twingo is at least as visually appealing as the similarly sized Toyota Aygo or Volkswagen Fox. The Twingo’s 141.7-inch length (about four inches shorter than a Mini Cooper) makes it perfect for squeezing into tight parking spots and zipping through traffic.

Our Renault Twingo was in Initiale trim, which is a bizarre mix of luxury (leather seats and a large sunroof) and austerity (hard interior plastics, so-so stereo, and no tach). Thankfully, the Twingo manages to ride like a car one or two sizes larger, and the variable-assist power steering provide surprising amounts of feedback. The car’s simple strut-front suspension and torsion-beam rear axle provide a comfortable ride and soak up bumps well, in spite of the short, 93.1-inch wheelbase. However, even with a beefy, one-inch front anti-roll bar, the Twingo never gets close to what we’d call a sporty feel.

© Source: caranddriver

2008 Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR 722 GT

After repeated requests by enthusiastic SLR.Club members, Mercedes-Benz agreed to develop a track version of the SLR McLaren super-sportscar - the SLR McLaren 722 GT.

Developed by the British motor racing specialists at RML, the 722 GT has been comprehensively re-engineered for track use with more than 400 new or redesigned components. The 722's unique specification addresses the chassis, suspension, brake, and aerodynamic systems of the already capable SLR.Each of the 21 SLR McLaren 722 GTs offered for public sale produce 680 hp from their 5.5 liter kompressor V8 engines, and weigh in at 1390 kg (some 600 lbs. less than series production models).

ENGINE: The 5.5 liter kompressor engine in the 722 GT has been tuned to produce 680 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque, making the 722 GT capable of 0-60 sprints in under 3.3 seconds.

SUSPENSION: RML gave the 722 GT new uprights front and rear, strengthening the suspension and delivering improved kinematics with better adjustability, allowing the trackside RENNtech technicians to tailor each 722 GT to the owner's unique driving style.

CHASSIS: An RML engineered, FIA approved rollcage does more than improve driver safety - the cage works to stiffen the SLR 722 GT's carbon fiber chassis further, allowing for better grip and improved control over wheel movements during cornering, acceleration, and braking.

AERODYNAMICS: An RML engineered, FIA approved rollcage does more than improve driver safety - the cage works to stiffen the SLR 722 GT's carbon fiber chassis further, allowing for better grip and improved control over wheel movements during cornering, acceleration, and braking.

SAFETY: The 722GT offers a no-nonsense motorsports interior with toggle switches, FIA spec. safety measures, lightweight seats, removable steering wheel with digital data-logger, and more.

AVAILABILITY: Only 21 examples of the SLR McLaren 722 GT will be offered for sale, and only a hand-full of those will be released to the North American market.

Lexus Announces Pricing for 2008 Lexus LX 570 Luxury Utility Vehicle

Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 LX 570 luxury utility vehicle. The third-generation LX offers significantly increased performance and new safety features over the LX 470 model it replaces with a number of technological advancements and a new high-strength chassis.

2008 Lexus LX 570

The 2008 LX 570, with several new technology features, enhanced safety, performance and comfort, will carry a base MSRP of $73,800.

The LX 570 features a new 383-horsepower, 5.7-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission built to handle demanding tasks with smoothness and refinement. The powertrain advancements make the 2008 LX 570 engaging to drive while providing an increased towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. An electro-hydraulic system with four-wheel Active Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) reacts more quickly and allows for a greater range of adjustment than the system it replaces.

With several first-in-class features, the LX 570 offers perhaps the most compelling combination of luxury, safety, on-road smoothness and off-road performance of any vehicle in its segment. The new Crawl Control regulates throttle and braking, allowing the driver to focus more on steering over particularly rough ground. In addition, LX 570 is the first Lexus to offer a new Wide-view Front & Side Monitor feature designed for use in certain urban settings such as parking garages. For enhanced occupant safety, the new LX 570 is equipped with a segment-leading 10 standard airbags and a segment-first Active Front Headrests. The optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is also a segment first.

The LX 570's standard luxury features include a four-zone climate control system, a first-in-class power sliding second-row seat, and a power-folding third-row seat. Options include a 19-speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio system, Intuitive Park Assist, climate control front seats with heated second-row seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $765.

Honda Announces an All-New 2008 Honda Inspire for Japan

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the all-new Honda Inspire. The appeal of the new model has been dramatically strengthened with performance and comfort enhancements, yet the price range remains ¥3,300,000 to ¥3,900,000—very close to that of the previous model. The new Inspire will debut on Friday, December 21 at Honda dealers throughout Japan.

2008 Honda Inspire

In keeping with its status as a luxury sedan, the new, 5th-generation Inspire has inherited the sporty performance and quality feel of its predecessor, adding significant improvements to all essential elements of sedan performance—driving, cornering, and braking. The new Inspire is infused with dynamism and intelligence in all aspects of design, interior space, driving, and functionality.

The V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine, available for the first time in Japan, features an advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that switches between six-, four-, and three-cylinder combustion depending on the driving conditions. This system is combined with numerous improvements to aspiration and combustion efficiency to achieve high output of 206kW (280PS) and high torque of 342N•m (34.9kg•m), and making the new Inspire the only domestic 3.5-liter-class sedan in Japan*1 to run on regular, unleaded gasoline. Fuel economy is also significantly enhanced.

The new Inspire is equipped with a full range of safety equipment. A driver and front-passenger i-SRS airbag system, front-seat i-side airbag system, and side curtain airbag system are standard equipment on all types, along with Honda’s original Advanced Compatibility Engineering body, which provides a high level of protection to vehicle occupants while also helping to reduce the force of the impact on the other vehicle during a collision. The 35iL also features Honda’s CMBS (Collision Mitigation Brake System) and E-pretensioners as standard equipment. CMBS determines if there is a danger of a rear-end collision and alerts the driver, further functioning to mitigate injuries and vehicle damage in the event of a collision.

In order to deliver the sort of direct handling feel and smooth ride comfort one expects in a luxury sedan, the new Inspire features a newly developed suspension, along with a lightweight, high-rigidity body for a lower center of gravity and reduced inertia. The interior design blends luxury with advanced functionality. A broad range of accessories provide all the amenities needed for a long drive, creating a relaxing, luxurious space that transports the vehicle’s occupants in comfort around town and on the freeway.

*1 According to Honda survey

Key Specifications

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The neat proportions of a luxury sedan with an exterior design that breathes powerful performance

· The new Inspire features the proportions of a sleek, sporty sedan.

· The front corners are boldly sculpted with wide, sharply delineated HID (High Intensity Discharge) headlights (low beams, with auto-leveling device) positioned to create a front view that provides a sensation of speed.

· The rear area of the cabin has been tapered to emphasize the bulging rear fenders. The impressive rear view is enhanced with large-diameter exhaust pipe finishers on dual exhaust pipes left and right.

Interior design combines elegant comfort with a refreshing driving environment

· The instrument panel is laid out horizontally in arcs that spread out to either side of the center panel, creating an elegant, relaxing space.

· The instrument panel’s wrap-around design spreads out from the center module where the audio and climate controls are clustered, flowing left and right to blend with the door lines.

· The center panel’s functional design positions visual displays on top and controls on bottom, for improved visibility and operability.

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A luxury sedan package that is easy to drive yet spacious enough to provide roomy comfort for all occupants

· The lower floor, longer wheelbase and more compact mechanisms all combine to secure ample interior space. For rear passengers, the tandem distance (a measure of the distance between front and rear seats) has been increased by 25mm*2 and the floor lowered to provide a more natural seating position. Knee space has also been increased by 35mm*2, while the couple distance for front occupants has been widened by 40mm*2 to secure an ample field of view for rear passengers.

· A thinner floor frame and slender fuel tank are employed along with optimized exhaust system layout to achieve a 15mm*2 reduction in floor height. This secures ample cabin height while contributing to enhanced driving performance and sporty styling.

· The trunk has been made 54mm*2 longer to create a spacious 510-liter*3 capacity for room to spare on long trips. The trunk and rear armrest through-holes facilitate loading of longer and larger items.

*2 Compared to previous model—Honda calculations
*3 Honda calculations according to VDA formula

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Newly developed V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine with VCM (Variable Cylinder Management) system combines powerful 280 horsepower output with outstanding fuel economy while cruising

· The V6 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine achieves high output of 206kW (280PS) and high torque of 342N•m (34.9kg•m), and make the new Inspire the only domestic 3.5-literclass sedan in Japan*4 to run on regular, unleaded gasoline.

· The newly advanced Variable Cylinder Management system, available for the first time in Japan, switches between six-, four-, and three-cylinder combustion depending on the driving conditions. The engine runs on six cylinders during startup, acceleration, and up hills, and on three cylinders while cruising. It can also run on four cylinders when driving at comparatively high speeds or under gentle acceleration—conditions under which the previous model would not have operated in cylinder idle mode—for improved fuel economy during high-speed driving.
· The engine offers outstanding clean performance, and has been certified by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport as having achieved emission levels 75% below 2005 Japanese government standards.

· A 5-speed automatic transmission makes the most of the engine’s performance characteristics.

· Shift Hold Control reduces unnecessary gear changes during performance driving.

*4 According to Honda survey

Newly developed chassis delivers outstanding performance in both direct handling feel and smooth ride comfort

· The suspension features a double wishbone configuration in the front and a newly developed multi-link double wishbone design in the rear.

· VGR (variable steering gear ratio) is employed to deliver a smooth touch at the initial turn of the steering wheel, with the steering ratio quickening to increase wheel angle more rapidly as the steering wheel is turned farther. This results in handling that is surprisingly light for a vehicle of this size.
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A highly efficient body design that is lightweight and rigid with outstanding aerodynamics

· Strong, lightweight, high-tensile steel is employed in approximately 48% of the main frame components, improving torsional rigidity by some 20%*5 while also achieving major weight savings.

· Effective use of aerodynamic parts on the body’s underside and flush surfaces throughout result in outstanding aerodynamics.
*5 Compared to previous model—Honda calculations

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Quiet operation ensures comfortable driving by eliminating unpleasant noises while making the most of the powerful engine sound

· Active control engine mounts are employed to cancel out increased vibration when the engine is operating in cylinder idle mode. Engine vibration is estimated and actuators located inside the mounts expand and contract with the same phase and cycle to absorb vibration.

· Active noise control is used to generate sound opposite in phase to the engine drone produced when cylinders are idling. The frequency to be attenuated is determined based on engine revolution pulses and a signal to cancel the frequency is generated via an audio speaker, thus reducing the drone.
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Advanced functionality for enhanced security and comfort

· Avehicle speed and inter-vehicular distance control system helps reduce the burden on the driver during freeway driving. It assesses driving conditions using data from a millimeter-wave radar unit built into the front grille of the vehicle that measures the distance to the vehicle ahead for up to 100m within a 16° arc, along with data from vehicle speed and yaw rate sensors. In addition to maintaining the vehicle at a set speed, this cruise control system automatically regulates vehicle speed and distance depending on whether or not there is a vehicle in the same lane ahead.

· The Honda Smart Key System enables users to lock and unlock the doors, open the trunk, and operate the ignition simply by carrying it on their person.
· In addition to independent temperature controls for occupants in the front seats, the intelligent, dual fully automatic air conditioner*6 uses GPS information and a sunlight sensor to determine the direction and intensity of the sun’s rays and regulate temperature and air output accordingly.

· An electric rear sunshade, standard equipment on all types, shades rear seat occupants from strong sunlight for increased comfort.

· The new Inspire is equipped with the latest Honda HDD InterNavi System*7. InterNavi Premium Club provides services to enhance customer safety and comfort, providing weather and disaster information to support safe driving. It features the world’s first*8 heavy rain prediction information service.

*6 Standard equipment on the 35iL; factory option on the 35TL
*7 With rear camera (8-inch wide display; DVD/CD player with TV/AM/FM tuner, and cell phone input jack), 6 speakers, and ETC (Standard equipment on the 35iL; factory option on the 35TL)
*8 World’s first for use in a car navigation system

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Advanced safety functions and equipment that assess the danger of rear-end collisions to help prevent accidents

· Working in conjunction with the seatbelt E-pretensioners, the Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) helps anticipate collisions and mitigate injuries and vehicle damage should an accident occur. The CMBS alerts the driver to take preventive action and activates the brakes to reduce speed. The E-pretensioners automatically retract the seatbelts immediately before a collision occurs.

· The E-pretensioners (driver and front passenger seats) also retract the seatbelts when brake assist is activated due to sudden braking by the driver, even if the CMBS is not in operation.
· The Vehicle Stability Assist system (VSA), which improves handling stability while cornering, is standard equipment on all types. A side curtain airbag system that helps protect the head in the event of a side collision, a front-seat i-side airbag system with passenger-side body position detector, and a driver and front passenger i-SRS airbag system are also standard on all types.

· The vehicle’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body provides a high level of protection to vehicle occupants while also helping to reduce the force of the impact on the other vehicle during a collision.

· The vehicle is also designed to mitigate pedestrian injury in the event of a collision, particularly to the head and legs, thanks to the use of impact-absorbing structures.

· ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) with EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution) and brake assist is standard on all types.

· Honda’s original G-CON (G-force Control) technology is incorporated to create a body with a crash safety design that can withstand a 55km/h full-frontal collision, a 64km/h front offset collision, 55km/h side collision, and a 50km/h rear collision. To further improve safety in real-world collisions, Honda has implemented its own vehicle-to-vehicle collision testing program*9 with its own independently established standards. This collision testing is much more demanding than conventional tests, in which the car is crashed into a fixed barrier. The safety design of the new Inspire meets even these stringent testing requirements.

· Front active headrests reduce load on the neck area during a rear-end collision.

· ISO FIX-compatible child seat anchoring bars and tether anchors (left and right rear seats) are standard on all types.

*9 Testing involves a 50% front offset collision with a 2-ton class passenger car, with both vehicles traveling at 50km/h.

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Superior clean technology achieves outstanding environmental performance

· Complies with Japan emissions regulations for 2005.

· PVC use has been eliminated from interior and exterior components wherever possible to achieve over 90% recyclability*10.
· Meets reduction targets independently established by the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).

· VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) levels have been reduced to within the indoor density guidelines set out by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to improve air quality inside the vehicle on all types, including those fitted with the leather interior.

*10 Calclations based on 1998 JAMA guidelines for defining and calculating new-vehicle recyclability.