Super Car Review

Toyota Camry

2011-06-01T01:51:00.001-07:00

The RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition is a special two-door version developed by RK Collection (RKC).
The project was developed with the dual purpose of building and running a high-performance street legal Toyota Camry with a NASCAR engine.
The exterior shell of the vehicle is a custom made 2010 Camry two-door body sheet metal. It is combined with several race car features including a custom body kit, carbon fiber brake ducts with fog lights and TRD emblems.
The engine is a TRD NASCAR V8 engine that measures 358 cubic inches and delivers 680 horsepower at 8500 RPM. The engine is mated to a Tremic T-56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission with a Ram dual-disc street clutch.
After its debut at the 2010 SEMA Show the RK Colle

NEW ISUZU PANTHER

2011-05-23T07:23:00.000-07:00

The Panther is a next-generation multipurpose vehicle that is equally suited to carrying large loads of passengers or cargo. The Panther, which classifies as an Asian utility vehicle (AUV), was developed to meet local conditions in terms of climate, roads and family structure as a durable vehicle. The Panther has established a favorable reputation for performance, reliability and durability. The same model is so popular in the Philippines and Vietnam.

Model variations

The series of new Isuzu Panther that was launched on August 2004 are Grand Touring, Touring, LS Turbo, LS, LV Adventures, LV, Smart and LM type. The new Isuzu Panther has 10 selections of color for you to choose.

Styling

The exterior combines the sophisticated styling of the latest minivans with the rugged styling of an SUV. The luxury feel combines with a clean and aerodynamic design. The newest version of Panther features a sporty front face accentuated with redesigned bigger headlamps, front grille, bumper and fenders. Inside, the Panther offers all the functions and comforts of a true passenger car. It boasts ample shoulder, head and legroom.

Engines

A normally aspirated 4JA1 and a turbo-charged 4JA1L are available. These 2,499 cc direct-injection diesels offer an excellent combination of high power and good fuel economy.

Isuzu i-Series

2011-05-23T07:16:00.000-07:00

After selling rebadged General Motors trucks as its own, Isuzu has finally gone to the big garage in the sky, no longer selling cars or trucks in the North American market. The Isuzu i-Series pickup truck was one of its last models, a reskinned version of the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon twins. There were some variations between the models in trims and options, but all came as extended-cab or crew-cab pickups and shared the same mechanical hardware.
Unfortunately, the GM trucks were never the best choices for badge engineering. Though decently engineered and value-priced, the Isuzu i-Series was outclassed by more refined choices in the compact/midsize pickup segment such as the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma.

Most Recent Isuzu i-Series
The Isuzu i-Series debuted for the 2006 model year. The '06 i-Series came in three trims: an i-350 LS crew cab, an i-280 S extended cab and an i-280 LS extended cab. The two engines offered for that first year were a 175-horsepower 2.8-liter four-cylinder (in the i-280) and a 220-hp 3.5-liter five-cylinder (in the i-350).

For its final two years, the Isuzu i-Series was available as the i-290 or the i-370. The engine in the i-290 was a 185-hp 2.9-liter four-cylinder. A five-speed manual transmission came standard, while a four-speed automatic was available as an option. The i-370 trims came with a 242-hp 3.7-liter five-cylinder, and a four-speed automatic transmission was standard. The i-290 was available as an extended-cab or crew-cab pickup truck, while the i-370 came as a crew cab only. The extended-cab body style offered a 6-foot cargo bed and small reverse-opening rear doors. There were miniscule rear seats in the extended cab, but if you think of them more as storage space, you won't be disappointed.
The larger crew-cab model had a reduced 5-foot cargo bed, but more rear-seat room and four doors. The rear bench seat was big enough for three adults and folded down in a 60/40 split. Extended-cab models come with rear-wheel drive only. For the i-370 crew cab, four-wheel drive was optional.
Isuzu vehicles were not traditionally known for luxury, and the i-Series does nothing to change that impression. Interior design, materials and build quality were hit and miss (and mostly miss). There were two trim levels for the i-290 (S and LS) and just the LS trim for the i-370. The base i-290 S trim was a bare-bones number. It had air-conditioning, cruise control and little else. The LS trims added bucket seats, full power accessories and a six-speaker stereo, but you had to order the Limited package available on LS models to get a six-CD changer and a locking rear differential.
In road tests, we found the Isuzu i-Series to have a reasonably refined ride and some unexpected agility. However, the performance was modest compared to brawnier rivals. Its selection of inline engines didn't offer much grunt or towing ability. In that regard, used i-Series pickups fall short of more evolved compact and midsize trucks.

Isuzu VehiCROSS

2011-05-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

Review
Isuzu's VehiCROSS began as an innovative concept vehicle that garnered loads of attention back in 1993 and then entered limited production for the Japanese market. Because of its excellent reception in Japan, the continued popularity of sport-utility vehicles here in the States, and the company's need for an image vehicle in the U.S., Isuzu decided to bring the VehiCROSS across the pond last year.
Powered by a 215-horsepower, 3.5-liter, direct-injection DOHC V6, the VehiCROSS comes with a four-speed automatic transmission with winter and power modes. It also boasts technical innovations like an advanced Torque-On-Demand (TOD) four-wheel-drive system, limited-slip differential and four-wheel ABS. Isuzu's TOD system (the same one found on the Trooper) senses driving conditions and adjusts the torque balance between the front and rear wheels, changing from 100-percent rear drive to 50/50 four-wheel drive in a matter of milliseconds.
Isuzu's front double-wishbone torsion bar and rear four-link coil suspension are enhanced by an industry first: an extruded aluminum shock absorber with attached expansion chamber, which makes for greater endurance and superior shock cooling. On rough roads, the truck's 18-inch alloy wheels and modified steel-belted radial tires are stopped by ventilated 11-inch front and 12.3-inch rear disc brakes.
The truck's capabilities as a trailblazer seem solid, but what most people first notice about the vehicle is its unconventional, techno-styling. The VehiCROSS has an expansive windshield, composite bumpers, underbody moldings, roof-end spoiler, integrated headlamps with marker lights, and unpainted polypropylene covering the lower section of the truck's body. An Isuzu spokesperson said that the truck is meant to appeal to consumers who "want to be different." We'd have to agree. Inside, the vehicle seats four and provides a sports car atmosphere complete with red and black leather-trimmed seating. With tinted glass, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, and collapsible, heated side mirrors, the VehiCROSS mixes ruggedness with luxury. Features include a matte black panel inset in the hood to reduce glare, roof rail system, aircraft-type fuel filler door, and a side-hinged tailgate that carries the spare tire securely inside the cargo door.
The $995 special edition "Ironman" option, available only in white, gets you front seats embossed with the "Ironman Triathlon" label, a special hood insert and a few more decals on the tailgate and beneath the C-pillar.
Available in only three colors: Ebony Black, Astral Silver Metallic and Victory White, Isuzu believes the VehiCROSS is in a category all its own. Not quite a mini-sport-ute or a big SUV, the 2001 VehiCROSS is a contemporary vehicle that isn't quite like any other. Whether you want to buy one or not, this truck will be hard to miss.

Isuzu Trooper

2011-05-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

The original Isuzu Trooper debuted during the early 1980s. Thanks to the public's nascent demand for SUVs, the Trooper was fairly successful although it was plain and very utilitarian. Its boxy, two-door body has an obvious Land Rover appeal, but early versions were available only with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and were quite underpowered.
Soon, a four-door model joined the lineup, and a GM-sourced V6 engine became available. As the sport-utility market grew, luxury amenities were added to the Trooper, but by the early 1990s, it was apparent that Isuzu needed to redesign the Trooper so it could remain viable in a market populated by steadily improving competitors.
It's this new "box with round edges" Trooper most people remember. Still truck-based, this wider, longer and taller Trooper added features such as a more powerful V6 and antilock brakes. That design lasted 10 years, and for some of those years Acura sold a rebadged version called the SLX. By the start of the new millennium, however, the Isuzu Trooper had been eclipsed by newer and superior competition and was still suffering from the effects of a negative report published in Consumer Reports magazine. With sales stalled, Isuzu discontinued the model for 2002.
As a used midsize SUV, the second-generation Isuzu Trooper is nicely equipped (in Limited trim) and, thanks to aggressive depreciation, priced affordably. Good off-road ability, excellent outward visibility and a spacious interior are among the Trooper's other positive attributes. Poor on-road handling and mediocre fuel economy are the Trooper's main drawbacks. The best years for the Trooper are the mid-to-late '90s. After that, models like the Ford Explorer or Toyota 4Runner or Sequoia are better choices.

Most Recent Isuzu Trooper
The second-generation Isuzu Trooper was produced from 1992-2002. Isuzu made some important updates for 1998, and it's probably these later Troopers that most used-SUV shoppers will be looking at.

In that year, this five-passenger midsize SUV gained a new, more powerful 3.5-liter 215-horsepower V6 and full-time four-wheel drive became standard. The Trooper also got a slight styling update that made it look more upscale than similar-era SUVs. The Trooper was available in two trim levels, base S and upscale Luxury, with the latter changing its name to Limited the following year. By 2000, an LS midlevel trim was added and once again a rear-wheel-drive version was offered. Only minor feature updates were made for the Trooper's last couple of years.
Our last full test of an Isuzu Trooper was in 1999 and we praised the vehicle's improvements, noting that the new engine added needed power and the interior was surprisingly quiet. We also praised the Trooper's roomy interior and cavernous cargo bay. Still, there's no disguising the fact that the Trooper is a truck. It looks like a truck and it rides like a truck. Anyone expecting a smooth ride and sharp handling will be disappointed.
For earlier years of this generation Trooper, there are a few things to watch out for. These Troopers were not as powerful. Base Trooper S models had a single-overhead-cam V6 that made an adequate 175 hp, while upscale-looking LS models had a dual-overhead-cam V6 that was good for 190 hp. Both engines displace 3.2 liters. In addition to its extra horsepower, the LS also offered ABS as an option, so used shoppers should consider that trim level.
Changes over the years were few, but one of the more noteworthy included the addition of a short-wheelbase two-door Trooper with the RS trim level designation in 1993. A few years later it was dropped. If you live in a cold climate, consider a 1994 or newer Isuzu Trooper, as those models offered the option of heated and powered front seats.
The real bargain is the Trooper Limited version added for the 1995 model year. It included such features as a power sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats and wood grain trim. Prices for a Limited are only a few hundred dollars more than a lesser equipped Trooper, and all '95 models offered a slightly more compliant ride thanks to a revised suspension. The Trooper lineup for 1996 was minus the two-door RS. Shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive also made its debut that year. By 1997, ABS became standard and the Limited trim was renamed the Luxury model.

Past Isuzu Trooper
The first-generation Trooper ran from 1981-'91. A diesel version was offered as well, and later versions of first-generation Troopers were available with a V6. Early Troopers were available as two- and four-door versions but it was the roomy four-door that became popular with American drivers.

Isuzu Rodeo Sport

2011-05-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

Review
Looking for a fairly affordable vehicle that offers a sporty personality, decent off-road skills and the possibility of open-top excitement? The Isuzu Rodeo Sport could be the vehicle for you.
Formerly known as the Amigo, the Rodeo Sport comes in a multitude of configurations including a hard or soft top, two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, four-cylinder or V6, and manual or automatic transmission.
When you're out for a jaunt in the sun, the soft top can be stored in the cargo area, while the hardtop features a rear passenger moonroof for maximum UV exposure. A hard plastic spare tire cover is standard with the 16-inch wheels.
Powering the base Rodeo Sport is a 2.2-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine that pumps out 130 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful 3.2-liter V6 engine, the same one found under the hood of its four-door Rodeo sibling, makes 205 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque. Four-wheel drive models have a dash-mounted switch that engages the shift-on-the-fly transfer case at speeds up to 60 mph.

While on-road ride quality is better than a Jeep Wrangler's, it's still a generally unpleasant affair. The Rodeo Sport handles sloppily and does not inspire confidence in the vehicle's abilities. Disconcertingly light steering, a shaky ride and sub-par brakes all contribute to the sensation that this SUV shouldn't be taken to the limit. Its short wheelbase (96.9 inches), however, does make it easy to maneuver around town and into parking spaces.
Four-wheel ABS is standard on all models, with cruise control standard on V6 editions. You'll also get driver and passenger airbags and rear bench seats that fold down to reveal more than 62 cubic feet of space. Power windows, locks, air conditioning, keyless entry and a CD player are all available options. If you're worried about durability, know that all Isuzus come with a transferable 10-year/120,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Blithely fun-loving individuals might be willing to overlook Rodeo Sport's flaws in favor of its sunny demeanor and truck-based utility. The four-wheel-drive model offers a viable alternative to those who crave the Jeep Wrangler's off-road ability and youthful appeal, but appreciate Isuzu's slightly more refined design and comparatively quiet cabin. For buyers looking for a cute-ute with genuine off-road ability who don't mind putting up with stunted on-road performance, the Rodeo Sport might be the answer. But we recommend taking a close look at some of the other small SUVs on the market and going on a few test-drives before settling for this warmed-over Amigo.

Isuzu Axiom

2011-05-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

Launched in 2002 and retired just a couple of years later, the Isuzu Axiom came by its name in a thoughtful and democratic way. Its moniker wasn't the result of myriad brainstorming sessions by a cadre of marketing types locked away in some remote steel tower. Rather, Isuzu held a contest to see who could come up with the best name. "Axiom" was picked by a citizen of Redmond, Washington, who got a brand-new Isuzu Axiom for his efforts.
Unfortunately, this degree of thoughtfulness was not reflected in the Axiom's design and overall quality. The Axiom wasn't as new as it should have been: The SUV shared an aged platform with its sibling, the Rodeo. Ergonomics within its cabin were poor; many controls were non-intuitive and illogically placed. Legroom was cramped for those riding in back. And the Axiom's sluggish steering and non-existent road feel didn't exactly enhance its fun-to-drive quotient.
Still, this Isuzu had its assets. A chiseled chin and crossover-like styling gave the vehicle some visual distinctiveness, and its V6 was up for most of the tasks thrown its way. The Axiom's available four-wheel-drive system was also fairly sophisticated. But on the whole, the Axiom was lacking in too many areas. In our editors' ratings, the Axiom earned a "not recommended" score in all the key areas: dynamics, comfort, design/build quality and function. If you're shopping for a used SUV, you would be better served by pretty much any of the Axiom's competitors.

Most Recent Isuzu Axiom
The Axiom was a midsize SUV that was available in just one generation lasting from 2002-'04. There were two trims: base and XS. Base models offered standard features like full power accessories, air-conditioning, keyless entry, a CD changer and a trip computer. XS models stirred in the sugar by way of amenities like foglights, heated front seats and a power moonroof. The options list on base models included leather seats, a power moonroof and a trailer hitch; on XS models, a trailer hitch was initially the sole available option.

It was on the market for just a brief spell, but the Isuzu Axiom still witnessed a few changes. In 2003, the base trim was renamed the S. A CD changer was dropped from the standard features list on S models, instead becoming available as an option; also, chrome wheels and a roof rack were added to the options list for XS models. In 2004, the S model saw further erosion to its standard features list with the deletion of its cassette player. The SUV's speaker count also dropped from eight to six. All Axioms got a new chrome finish on the grille; the optional alloy wheels on the XS also got spruced up with a new chrome finish.
Onboard all Axioms was Isuzu's Intelligent Suspension Control, which utilized sensors to track vehicle variables like speed, engine rpm and braking. These sensors continually adjusted the Axiom's shock valving to match ride and handling to real-time driving conditions. Also, the system allowed drivers to choose between Sport and Comfort suspension modes. In practice, this setup wasn't nearly as impressive as it sounds. In Comfort mode, the Isuzu Axiom exhibited an unacceptable degree of roll and wallow. Selecting Sport mode brought some relief, but we were still disappointed with this area of the SUV's performance.
Isuzu's hauler was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 good for 230 horsepower and 230 pound-feet of torque; the engine was a retuned version of the V6 that motivated the Isuzu Trooper. In 2004, the Axiom's engine benefited from new gasoline "direct injection" technology that served to boost hp to 250 and torque to 246 lb-ft. Two- or four-wheel drive models were offered.
Four-wheel-drive Axioms came with Isuzu's "Torque on Demand" feature. Operated via a dash-mounted twist knob, this system utilized sensors to gauge throttle position and axle speeds, with the aim of predicting wheelspin so power could be transferred to the front wheels in an idealized fashion.

Isuzu Ascender Review

2011-05-23T06:40:00.000-07:00

The Isuzu Ascender was a product of Isuzu's alliance with General Motors. In terms of design and running gear, it was pretty much identical to GM's other truck-based SUVs such as the Chevrolet TrailBlazer. Only in terms of styling and trim levels did the Ascender offer any significant variation.
The Isuzu Ascender lacked brand recognition, a third-row seat and some desirable features. It also lagged in terms of overall refinement. Only its low price stood out. Given that Isuzu no longer sells cars in the United States, this is a lame duck best avoided.

Most Recent Isuzu Ascender
The Isuzu Ascender was launched in 2003 as a seven-passenger extended-wheelbase model only. The smaller five-passenger version was first released in 2004. Both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive variants were available. Power for the Isuzu Ascender came from a 4.2-liter, inline six-cylinder engine. It produced 285-291 horsepower (depending on year) and 277 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard. Older models had the option of a 290-hp 5.3-liter V8. In 2005, the V8 was equipped with Displacement on Demand technology to improve fuel economy. But the V8 and seven-passenger Ascender were discontinued for the 2007 model year.
Trim levels were added and subtracted over time, as were equipment items. Generally, though, base Ascenders were sparsely equipped, while upper trims were borderline luxurious. Standard equipment included dual-zone manual climate control (with rear-seat controls), power locks and windows, power accessories and a CD player stereo. Available items included power mirrors and driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, keyless entry, cruise control, sunroof, leather upholstery, heated seats, driver memory functions, a six-CD changer and upgraded audio.
In road tests, we found the Isuzu Ascender to offer a comfortable ride and decent power. However, the Ascender's handling was rather sloppy. Feedback to the driver was numb and slow. Buyers looking for an urban-oriented SUV might be disappointed and would be better off looking at more evolved midsize SUVs or crossovers. Off-road, the 4WD Ascender comes more into its own given its body-on-frame construction and low-range gearing.

Isuzu Hombre Regular Cab

2011-05-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

Review
The Hombre is Isuzu's entry in the compact-pickup market, built with sheetmetal stamped by General Motors and the basic mechanical and structural components of the Chevrolet S-10/GMC Sonoma twins. When it debuted in 1996, the Hombre came with two-wheel drive, a regular cab and a weak, 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine-not exactly the tough stuff truck buyers craved.
Isuzu introduced a spacecab extended-cab model, a 4.3-liter V6 engine and a four-speed automatic transmission in 1997. Last year, four-wheel drive became available. And for 1999, Hombres boast a change in bumper design and a third-door option. But while these small improvements are slowly accumulating, the Hombre pickup is not likely to take the world by storm just yet.
Built in the United States, Hombres are available in a variety of cab and powertrain configurations, ranging from a standard-cab, 2WD model with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine to a 4WD, 4.3-liter V6 spacecab model featuring an optional third door.
The regular-cab versions are available in S and XS trim levels, and options are few. S models are the workhorses, with vinyl floor covering and limited options that include air conditioning, stereo and rear step bumper. Hombre XS models are better equipped, offering custom cloth upholstery, carpeted floors and a tachometer.
Extended-cab models are offered in XS trim only and provide vinyl folding jump seats in the rear and easy-entry seats in the front. If ordered with the optional third door, the truck comes equipped with only one jump seat. Four-wheel antilock brakes and a theft-deterrent system are standard on all models, and 4WD Hombre buyers will enjoy standard alloy wheels. New colors to choose from this year include Indigo Blue, Meadow Green and Victory Red.
Isuzu hasn't been selling many pickups in the past several years. As personal-use pickup sales skyrocketed, the company stuck with basic trucks more suited for work than play. Only time will tell if the Hombre can change Isuzu's bleak forecast in this segment.

Isuzu Rodeo Review

2011-05-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

Just about every automotive manufacturer produces a sport-utility vehicle today. But back in the early 1990s, there was only a sprinkling of truck-based, off-road vehicles to whet the appetites of those trendsetters who were ahead of their time in appreciating elevated seating heights and macho styling. The Isuzu Rodeo was one of these pioneers; a midsize SUV with ample room for five passengers and a comfy ride. Compared to more rough-and-tumble models from Jeep or Chevy, the Rodeo was much easier to live with on a day-to-day basis, and it quickly became a best-selling import SUV.
For the second-generation Rodeo, Isuzu concentrated on weight reduction, noise deadening, passenger comfort and improved on-road driving dynamics that all made the Rodeo a more livable daily driver. Thanks to a generous warranty, it was initially one of our top choices in the segment, but quickly found itself outclassed by newer competitors despite some minor updates.
Although a well-maintained used Isuzu Rodeo should satisfy shoppers on a tight budget, those willing to spend a bit more would be better served by more refined SUVs such as the Nissan Pathfinder or Toyota 4Runner.

Most recent Isuzu Rodeo
The second-generation Isuzu Rodeo midsize SUV arrived in 1998 with the same basic shape of its successful predecessor. The spare tire was now attached directly to the hatch (rather than a separate swinging tire carrier), or it could be mounted under the truck for a cleaner tail end design. These two configurations also reduced weight, which was a key design goal for Isuzu's engineers. In total, 285 pounds were shaved off the Rodeo by reducing frame and engine weight, by switching to rack-and-pinion steering and by using a five-link rear suspension design.
This reduced the burden on the four- and six-cylinder engines, which despite going up in power, were hardly known for providing quick acceleration. The standard 2.2-liter inline-4 engine available on the base S model made an anemic 129 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque, and could only be coupled to a five-speed manual. The 3.2-liter V6 available on the S and standard on the LS and LSE produced 205 hp and 214 lb-ft and was mated to either the manual or a four-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive was standard with four-wheel drive being optional on all trim levels, but only with the V6.
The base S model with the four-cylinder engine was essentially a stripper (though antilock brakes were standard) with only a few options like air-conditioning available. Standard and optional equipment on upper trim levels included alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential, full power accessories, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, keyless entry, moonroof, leather upholstery and a six-speaker stereo with cassette or CD player.
In 2000, the Isuzu Rodeo received more than 200 changes, including an aggressive styling refresh, updated seating and an optional Intelligent Suspension Control (ISC) system that automatically selected one of 17 shock rebound and compression rates depending on road conditions. A new Ironman LS package included sunroof, alloy wheels, ISC, special decals and a Best of Black Sabbath album (wait, that's a different Ironman). A transferable 10-year/120,000-mile powertrain warranty also became standard in 2000 and a two-door Rodeo Sport model was sold from 2001 to 2003.
When that second-generation Rodeo debuted, we considered it one of the top midsize SUVs on the market. We were particularly impressed with its quality interior, silky V6 engine and roomy backseat. After a long-term test and two years later, however, we were no longer so enamored (quite the opposite, really) and thought that in general, recently introduced SUVs were much better choices than the Rodeo.
While the V6 and ample space continued to score points, our long-termer's three breakdowns, shoddy build quality and numerous electrical gremlins were simply unacceptable and we began to view the interior plastics as increasingly cheap compared to those in the newer competition. We also complained about the vehicle's paltry gas mileage, low towing capacity and rough-riding suspension.

Past Isuzu Rodeo models
The original Isuzu Rodeo was introduced for 1991. Like its replacement, it was available with four- and six-cylinder engines and a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. With its long wheelbase, this Rodeo offered one of the best rides and largest backseats on the market.
Initially, both the 3.1-liter V6 and 2.6-liter inline-4 made only 120 hp. The V6 made 30 more lb-ft of torque, but its upgrade to 175 hp in 1993 was certainly welcome. The four-cylinder remained unchanged. Early Rodeos were also not very safe, receiving poor crash test scores and offering almost no safety equipment. Antilock brakes were standard, but were rear-wheel only with four-wheel ABS becoming an option in 1995. That year also saw front airbags added along with a redesigned dashboard courtesy of Honda, which rebadged the Rodeo as its Passport SUV a year previously. The only other significant changes for the Rodeo occurred in 1996 when Isuzu bumped the V6 up to 190 hp, added a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system and improved the vehicle's ride quality.

Isuzu Oasis

2011-05-23T06:26:00.000-07:00

Review
For several years, Honda has been purchasing Rodeo sport utilities from Isuzu, and rebadging them as the Honda Passport. Honda dealers were clamoring for an SUV, and rather than wait for engineers to develop a new model from scratch, the company forged a relationship with Isuzu. Starting last year, Honda also began selling an upscale version of the Isuzu Trooper as the Acura SLX, to capitalize on the booming luxury-SUV market.
To reciprocate the favor, Honda allows Isuzu to rebadge a Japanese-market sedan for sale across the Pacific, and has donated the slow-selling Odyssey minivan to fill a niche in Isuzu's U.S. lineup. The Oasis has a different grille, different wheels, and an Isuzu-embossed steering wheel center hub.
The Oasis is actually a better deal than the Odyssey, mainly because Isuzu offers a more comprehensive warranty, and the few options available are priced by the factory, not individual dealers, which reduces the dealer's ability to rip off the consumer. Powered by a strong 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and featuring four conventional doors, the Oasis scores well in government crash tests, and offers side-impact protection that meets 1998 passenger car standards. Antilock brakes are standard equipment.
The Oasis S can accommodate up to seven passengers, but LS models have center row captain's chairs which reduces capacity to six. The third-row bench seat folds forward, flips backwards for tailgate parties, or folds away into the floor to create a flat load floor. With seats removed and folded, the LS model can hold up to 102.5 cubic feet of cargo.
Despite the distinct lack of V-6 power, we think the Oasis offers solid value as a family wagon. It's roomy, attractive, and well-equipped. Best of all, prices are in line with the new Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable station wagons, as well as the Volkswagen Passat Wagon. Oasis offers more versatility and cargo capacity than any of these competitors, an excellent warranty, and proven Honda mechanicals. What's not to like?

Isuzu Amigo Review

2011-05-23T06:20:00.000-07:00

Though it has imported cars into the U.S., Isuzu is more well-known here for its trucks and truck-based SUVs. One of its more popular offerings in the latter realm was the diminutive Isuzu Amigo, a two-door compact SUV sold intermittently during the 1990s.
Amigo is, of course, a Spanish word that means "friend," but this Isuzu was somewhat less friendly than its name or cuddly dimensions suggest. The vehicle's refinement and ride quality were not as good as on competing car-based SUVs. Slow steering sapped much of the fun from the driving experience, and noise from the Amigo's engine was excessive, making for clamorous times within its cabin. The vehicle's two-door body and short wheelbase also made the rear seat an unpleasant place to get to and sit on.
On the plus side, the Isuzu Amigo was attractive-looking, with sharp angles and a sporty, pugnacious stance. The ute's dual-range four-wheel drive and high ground clearance made it competent off-road. Later models also offered a powerful V6 that provided brisk acceleration.
Still, these charms are not enough to compensate for its lack of refinement relative to others in its class. If you're in the market for a used compact SUV, saying adiós to the Amigo in favor of its competition is probably a wise decision.

Most Recent Isuzu Amigos
The second-generation Isuzu Amigo was built from 1998-2000. It was initially offered only as a two-door convertible, but a hardtop configuration joined the lineup in 1999. Mechanically, it was related to Isuzu's larger Rodeo, which meant it had body-on-frame construction and a non-independent rear suspension.

This Amigo came in one trim, the S, whose standard features included an AM/FM/cassette audio system, antilock brakes and dual sunroofs on hardtop models. Powering the Amigo was either a 130-horsepower, 2.2-liter four-cylinder or a 205-hp, 3.2-liter V6. Initially, both engines were connected to a five-speed manual transmission. Beginning in 1999, a four-speed automatic transmission became available and was offered as standard equipment on Amigos equipped with the V6 engine. Both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel drive-versions of the Amigo were offered.
Models equipped with the inline-4 offered an options list that included air-conditioning, a CD player, alloy wheels, a trailer hitch and side steps. Those equipped with a V6 engine had a more generous options list, which included keyless entry and full power accessories.

On the market for just a couple of years, this generation of the Amigo benefited from just one notable tweak. It got redesigned front styling for 2000, along with a new Ironman package that included adaptable shock absorbers. For 2001, Isuzu rebadged the vehicle as the Rodeo Sport.
In reviews of the time, the Isuzu Amigo scored high marks for its handsome exterior styling, powerful V6 and respectable off-road ability. Its short wheelbase also made it easy to maneuver in urban environments. But we were turned off by its interior, which was cramped and fitted with low-quality plastics and a poor sunroof design on hardtop models. Additionally, the Amigo's soft suspension settings and slow steering reduced handling ability and couldn't fully mask the SUV's truck-based underpinnings that often resulted in a harsh ride over broken pavement.

Past Isuzu Amigos
The first-generation Isuzu Amigo was built from 1990-'94, and was available only as a convertible in two trims. Base S models offered little more than cloth seats as standard equipment. XS models added alloy wheels, a tilt steering wheel and power steering. Options included air-conditioning and an AM/FM/cassette audio system.
Under the hood was a 2.3-liter inline-4 good for 96 hp and 103 lb-ft of torque; an optional 120-hp 2.6-liter inline-4 was available for those who needed more juice. Initially, these engines were connected to a five-speed manual transmission, and both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive were offered.
A few changes were logged over the years. In 1991, XS models got a locking center console standard; the item was optional on S models. In 1992, a four-speed automatic transmission was added to the options list. The following year, Amigos got a new grille. In 1994, the automatic transmission was deleted from the options list, and the base 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine was scrapped. The standard features list grew to include power steering, power outside mirrors, a center floor console and 16-inch wheels.

Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse

2011-05-22T23:48:00.000-07:00

Fiat has announced the 2008 Fiat 500 Abarth Assetto Corse, a super limited-run track day sports car based on the lowly Fiat 500 subcompact, then modified in every way into a lightweight, high-powered racing machine. Think John Cooper Works Mini Cooper S, minus a few pounds and inches in the waistline.
The Abarth marque at Fiat has come to signify small, lightened Italian sports cars that are the antithesis of nameplates like Ferrari and Maserati, yet still fast and sporting in their own right. The 500 Abarth Assetto Corse, like the less exclusive Fiat 500 Abarth,
The Abarth Assetto Corse is a limited-run Italian sport compact car, with only 49 units going to production. With 200 horsepower on tap in a package this small, the Assetto Corse will be tearing up Italian back roads soon for those Fiat fans lucky enough to get their hands on one.

Back to the track: 500 Abarth Assetto Corse
Abarth returns to track racing, and it has chosen to do so with its new '500 Abarth Assetto Corse', the baby supersports car from Abarth, due to be produced in a Limited Edition (49 cars).
The new vehicle, designed by the Fiat Group Automobiles Style Centre and produced by a team of Abarth Engineers and Designers will be the star of track races from next year and its creation confirms Abarth's racing vocation.
The Assetto Corse version of the petite 500 Abarth takes up the baton from its forerunner, the '595' that notched up numerous successes and great victories from 1963 and led to the coining of the description 'small but deadly'.
The cars sports a full racing outfit: wide track, white 17' special ultralight racing wheels, low ride, sports racing mirrors and a place for a number on the sides. Available in pastel grey with red Abarth side stripes, the '500 Abarth Assetto Corse' reveals an assertive front end that houses a badge bearing the Abarth logo and, below this, wide bumpers complete with an aerodynamic spoiler and screen-printed grilles to replace the plastic louvres on the standard production version. In addition to the classic bonnet clips, the bonnet houses two carbon air intakes bearing the Abarth scorpion logo.
The rear part of the car features a white winged spoiler, a badge bearing the Abarth logo and a twin exhaust pipe.
The Abarth identity is expressed to the full with a thunderbolt logo on the side representing the brand's racing image and a red band and four white chequers on the roof, just as on the winning Abarth 850TC version of the 1960s.
Inside, the '500 Abarth Assetto Corse' is equipped with a roll-bar type-approved for racing that is completely hollow to make the car lighter and faster. The car weighs approximately 180 kg less than the road version. The anatomical seats, the steering wheel (special for racing) and the carbon door panels make the 500 Abarth Assetto Corse a real baby sports car with a indomitable character all of its own.
Abarth has also thoughtfully provided a clothing set for the driver, that will be delivered in an original Abarth-branded leather bag. Owners of the '500 Abarth Assetto Corse' will therefore be resplendent in overalls, helmets, gloves and shoes, all meticulously branded with the ultra-new 'Assetto Corse' logo produced for the limited edition of the car.

Fiat Grande Punto Abarth

2011-05-22T23:42:00.000-07:00

Fiat is relaunching one of the motor industry's legendary performance and sporting car brands at the 2007 Geneva International Motor Show, when it takes the wraps off its new Grande Punto Abarth, the first of a new range of high performance and sporting Fiats, as well as performance and sporting kits for the Fiat range.
Luca de Meo, CEO of Fiat Automobiles SpA, decided some time ago that Abarth had to be much more than merely a badge attached to certain models in the Fiat range. So the new Abarth division of the company will run its own racing and rally teams, starting with the successful Grande Punto Abarth S2000, which won both the Italian and European Rally Championship titles last year, in its debut season. The new Abarth division will also prepare racing and rally cars for customers in a wide range of series and one make championships.
For road car customers, Abarth will develop new models for the Fiat range, starting with the Grande Punto Abarth, as well as developing performance and styling packages for the owners of existing Fiat products. Promotion of merchandise and clothing lines will also be a key element in the company's plans for Abarth.
Founded in 1949 by Carlo Abarth, the Abarth company produced classic sporting versions of key Fiat models and ran racing teams that were dominant forces on both the race track and on rally stages. The famous scorpion badge was chosen as a clear indication of what Abarth was all about - small cars with a big sting in the tail!
"The link with tradition is not just an idea, but tangible and concrete," says Luca de Meo. "This is a real rebirth, that will start with the triumphant return of Abarth activities to our historic premises in Corso Marche, Turin, where the famous 'Officine Abarth' will be recreated."

Grande Punto Abarth
The first of a new generation of Fiat Abarth performance cars being unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this year is the Grande Punto Abarth, which is equipped with a 1.4-liter turbo petrol engine that delivers 150 bhp at 5500 rpm, boosted to 155 bhp when 98 RON petrol is used. Peak torque of 152 lb-ft is developed at just 2000 rpm, but 169 lb-ft is produced at 3000 rpm by driver activation of the Sport mode. And thanks to the availability of an aftermarket booster kit, some 180 bhp can be made available, representing a peak power output of almost three times that of the entry level Punto.
All of which is a revival of past traditions: for example, the 1957 Fiat 500 delivered 13 bhp at 4000 rpm with a top speed of 53 mph, while the Fiat 500 Abarth of the same year delivered over 20 bhp at 5000 rpm and a top speed of 73 mph. The new Grande Punto Abarth aims to revive the feats of these entertaining performance cars, and Abarth aims to offer young enthusiasts in particular an opportunity to enter the world of motor sport in complete safety and at an accessible price.

Grande Punto Abarth S2000
Abarth is planning to repeat the stunning 2006 competition debut of this car, by entering the 2007 Italian Rally Championship with Giandomenico Basso and his co-driver Mitia Dotta. On the international scene, the Grande Punto Abarth S2000 will compete in the IRC (Intercontinental Rally Challenge) with drivers Andrea Navarra, and co-driver Guido D'Amore, together with the young Umberto Scandola and Anton Alen.
Powered by a 2000cc normally aspirated engine that delivers 270 bhp, with 4-wheel drive, the latest Grande Punto Abarth S2000 is a development of the machine that won the 2006 Italian Rally Championship with Paolo Andreucci and Anna Andreussi, winning 7 of the 11 events in the series. During the same season, Giandomenico Basso/Mitia Dotta also won the European Rally Championship and the International Rally Challenge, with a similar car.
As well as possessing a highly successful standard bearer in the Grande Punto Abarth S2000, and an outstanding team of drivers, the new Abarth & C. company also boasts a staff with vast experience: a total of 113 experts, including 26 engineers, 43 on the manufacturing side of the business and nine dedicated purely to motorsport.

Bentley Continental GT

2011-05-22T23:32:00.000-07:00

But finding the correct basic seat position for those in the front was only the start. Mindful of the fact that drivers do not all come in the same convenient size, Bentley's packaging team resolved to ensure that the GT coupe fitted a wider range of potential Bentley customers than any other coupe in its history. And job one in this quest was to travel to New York and measure some professional basketball players. This led to exhaustive adjustment and extension of the seat runners until the car was capable of accommodating people for whom supercars could hitherto not even be considered.

Bentley Arnage

2011-05-22T23:27:00.000-07:00

As Bentley has moved toward sleeker, trimmer luxury cars that trade a little heritage in the name of modern styling, the Arnage has become a bit of an orphan. Still, there will be those Bentley customers who are up crying at night, sad to see the Arnage go, especially in its potent twin-turbocharged Arnage T iteration.
To give the Arnage line a sendoff appropriate to a car costing multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars, Bentley has just announced the 2009 Bentley Arnage Final Series, a special edition Arnage limited to 150 units that epitomizes everything that has made the Arnage line a success despite its stratospheric price tag.
Dressed to the nines and carrying the most appealing parts of each Arnage model, the Final Series is both beautiful in the square-shouldered Bentley way and huge in the performance specs department. The fact that a vehicle carrying a scary curb weight of 5,700 pounds can still run 0-60 in 5.2 seconds and attain a top speed of 179 mph is testament to the powerful twin-turbo V8 sitting under the long, sculpted hood.
The rather-silly luxury Arnage Final Series touches we would expect from the Bentley of Bentleys include a retractable "Flying B" hood ornament, which can be electronically stowed in its own special compartment to prevent it from ending up around some car shwag collector's neck. If you have been an Arnage fan since 1998 but have never been able to put your wallet where your mouth is, the 2009 Arnage Final Series is your final chance.

BENTLEY ARNAGE FINAL SERIES
Handcrafted at Bentley, Crewe, Arnage Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, celebrating the last of Arnage
Combining the performance of the T with the refinement of the R, Arnage Final Series is the ultimate expression of class-leading luxury and effortless power
Arnage Final Series is the culmination of 90 years of Bentley heritage and marks the 50th anniversary of the company's iconic V8 engine
Arnage Final Series also signals the end of an era as Bentley prepares for the future

INTRODUCTION
(Crewe, 24 September 2008) -- Since its debut in 1998 the Arnage has conveyed an air of sophisticated understatement as the four-door flagship of the Bentley range. Over the last decade the car has undergone a process of constant refinement to its body, design, chassis and powertrain to maintain its class-leading position in the high luxury market.
To celebrate 10 years of the Arnage, 50 years of its mighty V8 engine and 90 years of the marque, Bentley Motors will launch its limited edition model at the Paris Motor Show next week.
Called the Bentley Arnage Final Series, the new model features a unique specification, combining the performance of the 500 bhp Arnage T with the refinement of the Arnage R and design elements from the Brooklands coupe, for the ultimate expression of British luxury and effortless power in a four-door saloon - a grand finale, for the grandest of Bentleys.
Hand crafted at Bentley's Crewe facility, the Final Series is an exclusive run of 150 cars, a unique example of the marque's flagship created to bid 'farewell' to the highly successful Arnage line in the most appropriate manner and style. Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, explains:
"For 10 years, Arnage has enjoyed extraordinary success at the pinnacle of the luxury saloon market. The Final Series is a celebration of the Arnage era as Bentley prepares for the next generation of its flagship model."

BENTLEY ARNAGE FINAL SERIES - NEWS IN BRIEF
Limited production run of 150 cars
Arnage T powertrain with 6¾ litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500 bhp and 1000 Nm of torque
Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard
Exterior design styling changes include:
20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels
Retractable 'Flying B' bonnet mascot
Body coloured headlamp bezels
Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles
Lower front wing air vents
'FINAL SERIES' badge on front wings
Bentley 'Jewel' fuel filler cap
Twin exhaust tail pipes
Interior design enhancements include:
'FINAL SERIES' treadplates to front doors
Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals
Waistrails with inset chrome strip and recessed Bentley marque badges (for the first time on Arnage)
Rear cocktail cabinet and document stowage trimmed in hide
FINAL SERIES stainless steel flask and shot glasses
Two picnic tables available in a range of premium unbleached veneers
Four Bentley umbrellas with wooden handles
Further enhancements to the standard Final Series specification include:
Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot
Removable rear cup holders for rear centre armrest
Hide covered boot rail
Further enhancements to the Final Series optional specification include:
iPod interface
Rear remote control for infotainment system
Naim for Bentley audio system: 1100W, 10 speakers and next-generation Digital Signal Processing (DSP) with eight modes to create the world's best in-car sound stage.

A COMMANDING ROAD PRESENCE

For the last 10 years the Arnage's combination of muscular lines and understated luxury have endowed it with a commanding road presence synonymous with all Bentley Grand Tourers, subtly conveying the car's formidable performance potential. This powerful exterior profile is underpinned by a torsionally stiff bodyshell (with an astonishing 6,500 spot welds) that helps to deliver outstanding ride and refinement.
Based on the sporting Arnage T, the Final Series offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance. Key ingredients of the distinctive appearance include a dark-tinted Bentley matrix radiator grille with Flying 'B' mascot and dark-tinted lower grille. The iconic Flying 'B', which can retract neatly into the grille surround, was originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby and was first used on the 1930 Bentley 8-Litre.
The Arnage Final Series is further distinguished by exterior design features first seen on the exclusive Bentley Brooklands coupe, comprising 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and 'Le Mans' lower front wing air vents.
Additional unique features include body-coloured front and rear lamp bezels, 'jewel' fuel filler cap (made from billet aluminium) together with 'Final Series' wing badges and polished stainless steel treadplates to the front doors.

EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP
The Arnage Final Series will have a very special appeal to Bentley customers, as Peter Guest, Head of Department, Body & Trim, explains:
"Thanks to its hand-built exclusivity and superb quality, Arnage has become a world-wide benchmark for automotive craftsmanship. The Final Series epitomises the truly bespoke feel we aspire to and are determined to maintain."
Inside, the Final Series is everything you would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, but discerning audience. The interior offers a remarkably spacious, luxury cabin to provide the ultimate in first-class travel for four adults.
Many of the most desirable Mulliner options are included in Final Series as standard, most notably the hand-made waistrails with inset chrome strip with recessed Bentley badges, the new rear cocktail cabinet and document storage trimmed in hide, plus the beautifully designed picnic tables available in a choice of three premium unbleached wood veneers - all prime examples of Crewe craftsmanship.
Bentley is the only automobile manufacturer in the world to offer as standard a cabin trimmed entirely with leather hides - including the headlining. The hand-crafted steering wheel requires up to 16 hours of double-stitching.
A set of mirror-matched veneers for each car takes 13 days to craft, while 17 hides and almost 400 separate pieces of leather are used for the upholstery, trim and headlining. Arnage Final Series spans the many eras between traditional coachbuilding skills and 21st century high-performance automotive engineering.
As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim, be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel, uses authentic materials. Built by hand, the creation of each Arnage takes a minimum of six weeks and owners can take full advantage of Mulliner, Bentley's specialist commissioning department, as Trevor Gay, Personal Commissioning Manager, Mulliner elaborates:
"Up to 80 percent of Arnage customers specify Mulliner features. Mulliner is completely dedicated to fully understanding their requirements and to delivering a bespoke experience and a uniquely high level of personal service."
Arnage Final Series is available in the full Bentley range of 42 exterior colours, 25 interior hides, and three veneers, plus the comprehensive line-up of Mulliner options and its bespoke colour-matching service that enable Bentley owners to create a uniquely personal car.
To help customers finalise the specification of their Arnage Final Series, the Bentley design team recommends six classic colour and trim combinations - Titan Grey (with Anthracite interior), Royal Ebony (with Beluga), Windsor Blue (with Windsor Blue), Meteor (with Imperial Blue), Burnt Oak (with Burnt Oak) and Black Velvet (with Burgundy).

NEW FEATURE ENHANCEMENTS
Arnage Final Series buyers will also benefit from a range of standard and optional feature enhancements. Standard enhancements include:
New audio head unit - with larger display screen and an SD (secure digital) memory card slot instead of the single CD slot.
New rear cup holders - displaying Bentley craftsmanship, these removable cup holders attach to the front edge of the rear centre armrest, or can be stored inside the armrest.
New hide covered boot rail - features coordinated leather trim and a chrome strip along the top edge.
New optional enhancements available at extra cost:
iPod Interface - links to the Infotainment system and enables customers to play their favourite music through the car's audio system. Supplied with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and a 3.5mm AUX jack. Includes a 12 volt power outlet for charging purposes.
Rear remote control - enables the rear seat passengers to control the infotainment system. When not in use it can be stored in a dedicated pouch inside the rear centre armrest.
Naim for Bentley world class audio system - delivers the world's best in-car sound stage. Created in partnership with Bentley by Naim Audio, a UK-based high end hi-fi manufacturer, this system features 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and a 1100 watt amplifier - the world's most powerful production unit fitted in a car. Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system which features eight individual modes to reproduce true emotions and a 'live' concert-like experience.

EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE FROM CREWE'S MIGHTY V8
The engine, transmission, chassis and running gear of the Arnage Final Series are identical to those previously employed in Arnage T. In this specification, Bentley's remarkable all-aluminium 6 ¾ litre V8 engine produces 500 bhp (507PS/373kW) and 1000 Nm (738lb ft) of torque - figures that ensure that the legendary Bentley 'wave of torque' delivers effortless performance for a unique driving experience.
Acceleration to 60 mph is accomplished in 5.2 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.5 secs) with 100 mph reached in 12.1 seconds (0-160km/h in 12.0 seconds). Top speed of the Final Series is 179 mph / 288 km/h. Each V8 engine bears the signature of the team leader who oversaw its hand-built construction in the Crewe factory.
The six-speed ZF automatic transmission, first introduced for the 2007 model, ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Semi-Automatic) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500 bhp V8 engine.

DYNAMIC HANDLING, SUPERB RIDE AND AWESOME BRAKING
Significantly upgraded in 2007, the Arnage's fully independent double wishbone front and rear suspension features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation. These endow the Arnage with impressive body control in all driving conditions, while the new five-spoke, two-piece 8.5J x 20-inch Sports alloy wheels with 255/40 ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tyres - originally developed for the Brooklands coupe - aid handling and road holding.
As an option, Final Series may be specified with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake discs. Measuring 420 x 40 mm (front) and 356 x 28 mm (rear), these discs are the largest fitted to any production car on sale today. With eight-piston callipers, the brakes provide impressive retardation and also give an 8kg reduction in unsprung weight, benefiting steering response, ride suppleness and acceleration.
This lightweight braking system ensures virtually fade-free use, time after time, and superb resistance to disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal use, the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and pad life is doubled compared to the standard system.
The Traction Control system is calibrated with the aim of avoiding all unnecessary reductions in engine torque. The ESP logic system, which is set-up to allow spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety, monitors the car's overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the V8 engine to be fully exploited.

50TH ANNIVERSARY FOR BENTLEY'S MIGHTY V8
The fitment of Bentley's legendary V8 engine in the Final Series in its most powerful Arnage form is an ideal way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this renowned powertrain.
Drawing on the wealth of aircraft engine experience gained at Crewe - manufacturing thousands of Merlin engines to power such famous British WW2 planes as the Hurricane, Spitfire, Mosquito and Lancaster - the first Bentley V8 engine was designed and built in 1959.
The fact that Bentley's V8 design has served the marque remarkably well for five decades should not come as a surprise, as Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, comments:
"The original forward-thinking design of the all-aluminium Bentley V8 was a masterpiece and so good that we have been able to improve it continuously for nearly 50 years.
"Today's engine produces around two and a half times the power of its 1959 predecessor, fuel consumption is only 60 percent of the original and emissions are an incredible 99 percent lower."
In 1959 the power and torque of that first 6.23-litre 90-degree V8 engine in the Bentley S2 saloon was officially described as "adequate". Actual output was around 200 bhp with 400 Nm of torque. Today, the Final Series 6 ¾ V8 produces 500 bhp and 1000 Nm with over 90 percent of that torque available between 1,800 and 3,800 rev/min.
One of the reasons Bentley's V8 engine has evolved so successfully is the position of the exhaust valves, high in the cylinder head with short ports, originally designed for rapid heat dissipation to help engine cooling. Decades later this meant that the catalytic converters could be quickly heated thanks to the short path from valves to catalysts, which benefits exhaust emissions.
Driven by the need to meet increasingly stringent exhaust gas legislation around the world and the desire of many Bentley drivers for more power, the V8 engine has progressively evolved over the years.
In 1962 an increased compression ratio enhanced performance. Seven years later, for the Bentley T-series, the V8 engine underwent a far greater power boost with a longer stroke increasing capacity to 6 ¾ litres, where it remains to this day.
The introduction of turbocharging in 1982 delivered an even more dramatic increase in power to 297bhp to create the Bentley Mulsanne Turbo. The later introduction of port injection systems and a charge cooler for the turbo further improved performance.
In 1999 the V8 engine was introduced into the Arnage, codenamed "F1", with a single turbocharger, by now developing 400bhp/298kW and 616 lb ft/835 Nm of torque. This was followed in 2002 by the "F6" version featuring twin turbochargers, boosting power to 450bhp/336kW with 645 lb ft/875 Nm of torque.
The V8 engine underwent perhaps its most extensive development in 2006 taking power to 500 bhp and torque to 1000 Nm. The introduction of two low-inertia, quick-reacting turbochargers that operate with far greater efficiency at lower engine speeds, reach maximum turbine speed in half the time of the previous units.
Furthermore, a re-profiled camshaft with an all-new roller tappet system provided revised valve timing and substantially improved refinement. These changes also delivered increased power, enhanced durability and ensured compliance with European EU IV and US LEV II emission standards.

Bentley Brooklands

2011-05-22T23:21:00.000-07:00

The Bentley Brooklands is a stunning new model that marks the company's return to the luxury coupe market and reaffirms its reputation as creator of the world's most exclusive coupes. It is the ultimate Bentley: a stylish, four-seat, grand touring coupe with classic British proportions and muscular performance.
Bentley's chairman Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen describes the motivation behind the new coupe: "Bentley's proud sporting pedigree, forged by the exploits of the immortal 'Bentley Boys' on the famous Brooklands* racetrack in the 1920s, was the inspiration for our new coupe, capturing all the style, power and splendour of that era."
Sporting design cues are matched by the phenomenal performance engineering of Bentley's legendary Crewe-built V8 engine. The new Bentley Brooklands possesses the most powerful V8 the company has ever produced - a 530 bhp, twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter unit that also produces a prodigious 775 lb-ft of torque.
Each Brooklands coupe will be hand-assembled, employing traditional coach-building techniques and the craftsmanship skills in wood veneer and leather hide for which Bentley is renowned. To ensure exclusivity, lifetime production will be strictly limited to just 550 cars, with deliveries expected to start in the first half of 2008.

Exterior Design: Classic British Proportions
Bentley's rich coupe heritage provided the stimulus for Director of Styling, Dirk van Braeckel and his design team. For van Braeckel, the task was very clear: "To create a powerful, muscular and rakish grand touring coupe with classic British proportions, in the finest Bentley tradition."
While the new Brooklands is influenced by Bentley's fine coupe lineage, its design and engineering are thoroughly contemporary. The proportions of long bonnet, short front overhang and long rear overhang achieve the design objective perfectly, while the low roofline, steeply raked screens and pillarless side glass convey both power and movement.
As the Brooklands will be built in very limited volume, the designers were able to introduce unique features that necessitate specialist coach-building techniques, as Programme Director, Ashley Wickham, reveals: "The Brooklands' beautiful flowing lines are testament to the traditional coach-building skills and craftsmanship of Crewe's highly talented workforce."

Peerless Craftsmanship with a Sporting Character in the Interior Design
As in every Bentley, peerless craftsmanship is to the fore, enhanced by the warmth and richness of the finest natural materials. To tailor for their individual requirements, customers may choose from an extensive palette of hides, veneers, carpet tones and seat belt colors.
Its four-seat architecture and deeply bolstered seats lend the Brooklands' interior a distinctly sporting atmosphere, complemented by design accents such as aluminum foot pedals and footrest. A new, single-piece, hide-trimmed roof lining flows uninterrupted from the front windscreen all the way to the rear of the car, mirroring the long, sleek profile of the elegant exterior.
The interior designers sought to offer the very highest levels of comfort and legroom, in true Bentley grand touring tradition, while the pillarless window design enhances the feeling of space.

Most Powerful Crewe-built V8 Ever
Beneath its muscular, rakish, coach-built body lies the most powerful Crewe-builtV8 engine ever produced, developing 530 bhp. Maximum torque is an astonishing 775 lb-ft, the highest ever developed by a production V8 engine. Although performance figures are subject to final confirmation as part of the on-going development program, the new Bentley coupe will deliver supercar levels of in-gear acceleration combined with Arnage refinement.
At the beginning of the project, Dr Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, tasked his power train specialists to deliver an extraordinary driving experience in the Bentley coupe tradition: "Exhilarating, effortless, accessible performance for those truly passionate about their driving was our prime objective."
As with the latest Arnage, the V8 engine is mated to a six-speed transmission with strengthened casing that transforms the way in which both parts of the drive train communicate. A sophisticated, locking torque converter and ESP system ensure that the driver can readily access the prodigious power. A semi-automatic function allows manual gear selection for even greater driver control.
*The challenging Brooklands banked racetrack, which this year celebrates its centenary, was the birthplace of British motor racing. During the 1920s and early thirties, Brooklands, located in Surrey, England, was the scene of some of Bentley's greatest racing triumphs, forging an inextricable link between the company's motorsport heritage and this historic race circuit

Bentley Continental Flying

2011-05-22T23:10:00.000-07:00

The new Bentley Continental Flying Spur is set to deliver even greater levels of refinement, comfort and opportunities for customer personalisation. The class-leading 12-cylinder luxury saloon will also be joined by the 600 bhp (610PS) Continental Flying Spur Speed. The most powerful 4-door car ever produced by the British manufacturer, the Flying Spur Speed offers the pure driving experience and uncompromising performance synonymous with all Bentleys bearing the Speed legend.
The Continental Flying Spur has been an extraordinary success story for Bentley since its launch in 2005. Its unrivalled combination of exciting performance, luxury, craftsmanship, style and four-door practicality has broadened the appeal of the Continental range. The Flying Spur has become the most successful 12-cylinder luxury saloon in the world and has played a pivotal role in the revitalisation of Bentley.
The instantly recognisable style of the Flying Spur undergoes a subtle evolution with changes to the front and rear design. The new, more upright grille and bolder lower air intake accentuate the distinctive Bentley profile, while the new rear bumper delivers a more aggressive and sleek appearance.
A comprehensive range of noise-absorbent measures including acoustic glazing, tri-laminate body undertrays and wheelarch liners ensure that cabin refinement, already a hallmark of the Continental Flying Spur, is best in class.
The new Flying Spur may now be specified with a sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control system, which monitors traffic ahead and manages the throttle and brakes to maintain a pre-set time gap, up to a driver selected set speed.
As a further option, the new Naim for Bentley audio system provides the world's best in-car sound stage. Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, the system features an 1100 Watt amplifier, the most powerful unit offered in a production car, and 15 custom-built Naim speakers, including dual Naim sub-woofers. The next-generation Digital Signal Processor further enhances the listening experience.
The aluminium-intensive suspension of the Flying Spur features revised spring and dampers and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tyre for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort and refinement.
Bentley's commitment to the highest quality of craftsmanship and customer personalisation is highlighted with an enhanced choice of beautifully crafted wood marquetry and chrome inlays. In addition, seat piping, a traditional Bentley feature, is introduced on Flying Spur together with two new hide colours. Three new colours and four duo-tone paint combinations are added to the exterior paint palette.
The 600bhp Continental Flying Spur Speed unleashes the same potent performance and intense levels of driver engagement as its highly acclaimed stablemate, the Continental GT Speed.
Inspired by Bentley's legendary 'Speed' models that first appeared in 1923, the Flying Spur Speed offers a range of headline performance figures including a 0-60mph sprint time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 200mph.
A lowered ride height, uprated and redesigned suspension as well as retuned steering deliver outstanding agility and body control. Exceptional grip comes from the unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero UHP performance tyres.
The Flying Spur Speed is distinguished by subtle design cues which emphasise its performance credentials, including dark-tinted radiator and air intake grilles, wider rifled exhaust tail pipes and unique 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels.
Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen explains the rationale behind the new range:
"The global success of the Continental Flying Spur has created a new generation of Bentley owners. Responding to their feedback, we have refined an already remarkable car and with the debut of the Flying Spur Speed we are extending its appeal."

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR RANGE - NEWS IN BRIEF

CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR
Styling evolution
- New front end design with:
More upright front grille with bright chrome matrix
Larger, lower air intakes
Chromed headlamp bezels
Optional bright chrome matrix lower grille
- New, more slender rear bumper design with:
Wraparound brightware and black valance.
Bright tail lamp bezels.
Best-in-class cabin refinement
Acoustic glass to side and rear windows
New acoustic tri-laminate undertray and wheelarch liners
Retuned exhaust system
Enhanced driving dynamics
- The aluminium-intensive suspension features revised spring, anti-roll bar and damper settings and a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli UHP tyre, for outstanding levels of ride quality, comfort, response and refinement.
- New design 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels.
- Retuned Servotronic power steering for improved feedback and feel.
- New 'Sport Traction' mode from ESP 8.1 system offers superb traction without being intrusive.
- Optional fade-resistant carbon ceramic brakes provide improved brake feel (only available on 20-inch wheels).
Discs last lifetime of car and pad life doubled (in normal driving conditions).
- New, follow-to-stop precision radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control with five time-gap settings.
- Power output of the twin turbo 6.0 litre W12 engine remains at 552bhp (560PS/412kW).
- Top speed of 195mph (312km/h) and 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.2).
Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience
- New optional exclusive Naim for Bentley audio system with 1100 Watt amplifier provides the world's best in-car sound stage.
- New optional glovebox-located iPod, MP3 & USB interface connects personal music to the in-car infotainment system.
- Multi-layer seat construction for enhanced comfort.
- New optional full width rear seat with electrically adjustable outboard positions and fixed central seat.
- Park distance control system with new graphics on infotainment screen
- Aluminium foot pedals incorporating the "B" Bentley logo.
Improved personalisation and bespoke choice
- Enhanced choice of handcrafted interior and exterior finishes include:
Contemporary style marquetry with crossbanding to door waistrails (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
Traditional style marquetry with crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console (Walnut & Chestnut veneers only).
New chrome inlay strip to door waistrails.
New two tone interior hide colour options providing greater opportunities for personalisation.
Two new interior hide colours, Linen and Imperial Blue.
Seat piping now available in 16 colours to allow customer to match secondary hide or single tone interior.
Three new standard exterior paint colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx) along with four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) for the first time on the Continental family

THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED

The new Flying Spur Speed shares the enhancements of the Continental Flying Spur model above with the following additions taken from the acclaimed GT Speed:
- A more powerful 600bhp (610PS/449kW) version of Bentley's highly acclaimed W12 with 553 lbft (750 Nm) of torque.
A 9% increase in power and 15% increase in torque.
Maximum torque constant from 1750 rev/min.
- More engaging Bentley driving experience through uprated chassis:
10mm lowered ride height, uprated spring/damper settings and uprated anti-roll bars for improved agility and body control.
Exceptional roadholding thanks to superior grip from unique 9.5Jx20 multi-spoke alloy wheels with bespoke Pirelli P-Zero performance tyres.
Improved steering response achieved through retuned speed-sensitive Servotronic system, solid-mounted front subframe and stiffer rear bushings.
'Dynamic' mode introduced on the uprated Bosch 8.1 ESP system with more progressive intervention to cater for the more spirited driver.
- 0-60mph in 4.5 secs (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and a top speed of 200mph (322km/h).
- Unique Speed model styling cues:
Front grille and lower air intakes in dark-tinted chrome matrix.
Bright chrome grilles available as a no cost option.
Wider rifled sports exhaust tail pipes.
'Speed' treadplates to all four doors.
3-spoke Sport leather steering wheel.
Optional bright or dark tint aluminium fascia panel.
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals, knurled chrome/hide gearlever.
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and door panels.
THE NEW 2009 CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR

With typical Bentley understatement the styling of the new Continental Flying Spur is both evolutionary and subtly effective. At the front, the new bright chrome radiator grille, now more vertical, has a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the distinctive Bentley profile.
Beneath the grille, the new lower bumper features a wider, bolder central air intake. The black matrix grille also provides a 14 percent increase in airflow for the more powerful Speed version and the charge cooler intakes are positioned on the corners.
The lower grilles may also be specified in bright chrome to complement that of the main radiator. Chromed bezels around the headlamps complement the new frontal design.
At the rear, the new bumper with black lower valance and wraparound chrome trims make for a more slender appearance that is complemented by new chromed tail lamp bezels. Director of Design, Dirk van Braeckel explains the styling evolution:
"The Flying Spur is instantly recognisable on the road and we were keen to retain its individuality. The subtle styling changes have given the car a fresh look at the front and sleeker, more balanced appearance at the rear."
Enhanced cabin refinement
Since its launch in 2005, the Continental Flying Spur model has achieved a well-deserved reputation for outstanding cabin refinement. For the new model range, the Bentley engineering team were tasked to build on this success and create a unique cabin ambience with best in class refinement and comfort.
Key to that improvement is a comprehensive package of enhancements to the Flying Spur's already impressive acoustic suppression technology. The complex double-glazed windows, a standard feature since launch, now feature a sophisticated acoustic laminate inner layer for all side and rear windows. In addition, new tri-laminate acoustic underbody trays and wheel arch liners absorb road noise.
A redesigned exhaust system provides greater refinement while maintaining the sporty, baritone character of the exhaust note. Overall, these changes deliver a substantial improvement in cabin refinement.
Bentley's Head of Body and Trim Engineering, Peter Guest, explains the effect of this acoustic management:
"We are immensely proud that the cabin refinement of the new Flying Spur is best-in-class. While achieving superb levels of noise insulation, the sporting character and sense of connection with the road is undiminished."
Enhanced driving dynamics and ride comfort
At the heart of the Continental Flying Spur is Bentley's 6-litre, twin turbocharged W12 engine, the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production. The 48-valve head employs four camshafts and continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via an uprated ZF six-speed automatic transmission.
The W12 engine continues to produce 552bhp (560PS/412kW) at 6100 rev/min and a maximum torque of 650Nm (479lb ft) from 1600 rev/min across virtually the entire rev range.
In common with all Continental models, the Flying Spur employs a complex four-link suspension at the front and a trapezoidal multi-link system at the rear.
Much of the suspension is made from lightweight aluminium, benefiting steering feel and rolling comfort. Self-levelling air springs are standard, constantly monitoring and adjusting the ride height and damping according to road conditions.
Outstanding levels of ride quality and comfort were the target for the new Continental Flying Spur and to achieve this, Bentley engineers have recalibrated both spring and damper settings and introduced a new bespoke 19-inch Pirelli P-Zero UHP tyre.
Using the same technology as the 20-inch performance tyre introduced on the 2008 Continental GT Speed, the 19-inch version is specially developed to optimise ride comfort and noise suppression, while providing outstanding grip and agility.
The hydraulics of the speed-sensitive Servotronic rack and pinion steering system have been retuned to reduce friction and improve steering feel and driver feedback.
The uprated advanced electronic stability control (ESP) 8.1 system has a new 'Sport Traction' mode that moderates ESP intervention at low speeds whilst providing a greater degree of driver interaction and control, offering superb traction without being intrusive.
Both Flying Spur models can now be specified with Bentley Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
As with conventional cruise control, ACC will maintain, within close limits, a 'set speed' as selected by the driver. In addition, ACC uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts braking and acceleration to maintain a 'time gap', as selected by the driver.
The 'time gap' also controls the vehicle dynamic response. The larger the time gap the more relaxed the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to tune the ACC system to suit their own driving style and traffic conditions.
All Flying Spur models are equipped with the largest brakes of any production passenger car on sale today, with 405mm x 36mm ventilated front discs and 335mm x 22mm rears.
Bentley's carbon/silicon carbide brakes (CCB) are offered for the first time as an option on Continental Flying Spur. With even larger 20mm x 40mm cross-drilled front discs and 356 x 28mm rears, with eight-piston callipers, they may only be specified with 20-inch alloy wheels.
The lightweight, fade-resistant braking system minimises disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal driving conditions the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and brake pad life is doubled compared with the standard system. A 20kg reduction in rotating and unsprung mass also benefits steering response and handling.
Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:
"True to the Bentley tradition, the Flying Spur delivers effortless power while significant advancements in ride quality and comfort further emphasise its deserved reputation for world-class luxury. The new Speed model exemplifies our passion for creating cars that deliver truly exceptional performance and driving enjoyment."
Enhanced cabin comfort and customer convenience
The 2009 the Continental Flying Spur is the first model to feature the new Naim for Bentley audio system to create the world's best in-car sound stage.
Designed exclusively for Bentley by Naim, the renowned British hi-fi manufacturer, it features an 1100 Watt amplifier – the world's most powerful production unit fitted in a car – and 15 speakers. The speaker drive units are specifically tailored by Naim to the cabin of each model in the Bentley range to provide a unique and personalized audio experience.
Bentley is also the first car manufacturer to use a next-generation Digital Signal Processor (DSP) in its audio system, enhancing the listening experience still further.
All cars are now fitted as standard with a handset allowing rear passengers to control the main infotainment system.
A new optional iPod, MP3 and USB interface is located in the glovebox, enabling customers to connect personal music to the in-car infotainment system. When an iPod is connected, the tracks are displayed on the infotainment screen.
This perfectly complements the optional rear seat entertainment package that comprises two headrest-mounted 7-inch LCD screens, a 6-DVD multi-changer and two sets of headphones. An enhanced remote control unit now incorporates the rear seat entertainment systems.
A further driver convenience feature is introduced for the park/distance control. The new graphics readout on the console-mounted infotainment screen complements the audible signal.
All new Flying Spur models also benefit from significant developments to the cabin interior. The seating of all new models is extensively redesigned, with a multi-layer seat construction the comfort of which is optimised using different materials.
Employing the latest body profiling databases, the seats are constructed to offer the optimum shape for front and rear seat occupants. In addition, the rear seat cushions are lengthened by 40mm for additional comfort and support.
For the first time on Flying Spur, customers specifying a five-seat configuration may now opt for a rear-seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat. The outer seats have full lumbar adjustment together with heating and massage functions and a facility to adjust the position of an unoccupied front passenger seat for even greater legroom. Seat ventilation is available as an optional extra.
Improved personalisation and bespoke choice
Already renowned for its unrivalled standard of interior craftsmanship, the cabin of the Continental Flying Spur is now even more luxurious, offering unparalleled opportunities for personalisation in this segment of the market. This follows an extensive development programme that marries the latest production technology with the skills of Bentley's craftsmen and women at its factory in Crewe, England.
Continental Flying Spur customers may now choose from an array of beautifully crafted inlays. These include chrome inlays to door waistrails and a choice of intricate marquetry wood inlays in contemporary and traditional designs, creating a unique and personalised appearance.
The contemporary style inlays comprise crossbanding to the door waistrails while the traditional style inlays feature crossbanding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console. Both are available for Walnut and Chestnut veneers.
To further enhance the interior specification, seat piping is now available as a cost option and can be ordered in a contrast or non-contrast condition from the full colour palette of interior hides.
In addition, a new approach to the interior hide colour combinations provides customers with greater opportunities for personalisation. The door waistrails and lower door panels may now be matched to secondary hide while the centre door pads and armrests remain matched to the main hide colour creating a new two-tone effect.
Additions to the 2009 Flying Spur palette include two new hide colours (Linen and Imperial Blue) as well as three new standard exterior paint colours (Havana, White Sand and Onyx). Four unique duo-tone paint combinations (Havana, Dark Sapphire, Onyx and Midnight Emerald) are available for the first time on the Continental family.
THE NEW CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED
Following the highly successful introduction of the Continental GT Speed coupe in 2007, Bentley – almost half of new Continental GTs now sold are Speed versions – Bentley now offers the 600bhp (610PS) W12 powertrain in the new Continental Flying Spur Speed to deliver a more powerful and engaging Bentley driving experience.
The Speed engine develops 15 percent more torque and nine percent more power than the standard Flying Spur, while engine efficiency is optimised by the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system. The resultant performance is exceptional, with a top speed of 200mph (322km/h), a zero to 60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8s) and effortless overtaking capability.
The most powerful four-door Bentley ever made, the Flying Spur Speed blends understated design cues to distinguish it from the Flying Spur. Its front grille and lower air intakes are dark-tinted chrome, while at the rear wider rifled sports exhaust tailpipes hint at the potential of the Speed model.
New 20-inch multi-spoke wheels available in both bright silver or darkened tungsten carry bespoke Pirelli PZero performance tyres introduced on the GT Speed model, which provide the car with superb grip and feedback.
The Speed's sporting performance is complemented by a highly capable chassis. Tauter handling and greater steering response with sharper turn-in and improved driver feedback is achieved through a retuned Servotronic steering system, direct-mounted front subframe and stiffer bushings.
Improved agility and body control is also achieved through uprated spring and damper settings as well as thicker anti-roll bars front and rear. To aid the car's high-speed dynamics, the Flying Spur Speed's self-levelling air suspension sits 10mm lower.
The advanced electronic stability programme (ESP), uprated to ESP 8.1 for both models, provides a greater degree of driver interaction and control.
The Flying Spur Speed offers a new 'Dynamic Mode' that allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds. Torque is reinstated more quickly after the traction control system is triggered, giving the spirited driver a greater sense of control and the ability to exploit the full potential of the new engine.
Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board Engineering, comments:
"The new Flying Spur advances its Bentley performance credentials while delivering outstanding refinement and comfort through our unique application of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship.
With 600 bhp and a sports-tuned chassis, the Flying Spur Speed redefines customer expectations of a large, four-door luxury saloon. The performance, handling and agility set new benchmarks."

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

MODEL TYPE
Four-door
ENGINE
Type 12-cylinder, 6-litre twin-turbocharged engine
Installation Front, longitudinal, all-wheel drive
Construction Alloy heads and block
Bore/stroke 84 x 90.2mm
Capacity 5998cc
Compression ratio 9.0:1
Valve gear Chain-driven DOHC per bank, 4 valves per cylinder, cam phased inlet and outlet
Power Flying Spur: 552bhp/560PS/412kW @ 6100rev/min
Flying Spur Speed: 600bhp/610PS/449kW @ 6000rev/min
Torque Flying Spur: 479lb ft/650Nm @1600rev/min
Flying Spur Speed: 553lb ft/750Nm @ 1750rev/min
Fuel 98 (95) RON

TRANSMISSION
Type Continuous all-wheel drive
Gearbox ZF 6-speed automatic
Ratios 1st: 4.17
2nd: 2.34
3rd: 1.52
4th: 1.14
5th: 0.87
6th: 0.69
Final drive: 3.526

PERFORMANCE
Top speed Flying Spur: 195mph (312km/h)
Flying Spur Speed: 200mph (322km/h)
0-60mph (0-100km/h) Flying Spur: 4.9 seconds (5.2 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 4.5 seconds (4.8 seconds)
0-100mph (0-160km/h)
Flying Spur: 11.3 seconds (11.3 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 10.5 seconds (10.4 seconds)
50-70mph (80-120km/h) Flying Spur: 2.6 seconds (3.3 seconds)
Flying Spur Speed: 2.4 seconds (3.1 seconds)

SUSPENSION
Front Complex multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar
Rear Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, anti-roll bar

STEERING
Type Rack & pinion, power-assisted, speed-sensitive
Turns lock to lock 2.7
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) 11.8m (38.7 ft)

BRAKES
Front 405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm carbon/ silicon carbide, cross-drilled discs)
Rear 335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm carbon/ silicon carbide, cross-drilled discs)
Anti lock Standard with Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)

BODY & CHASSIS
Construction Steel monocoque
Length 5290m m (208.26in)
Width (inc. mirrors) 2118mm (83.39in)
Weight 2475 kg (5456lb)
Height Flying Spur: 1475mm (58.1in)
Flying Spur Speed: 1465mm (57.7in)
Wheelbase 3065mm (120.67in)
Front track 1623mm (63.9in)
Rear track 1607mm (63.27in)
Wheels Flying Spur: 9.0J 19-inch Alloy (optional 9.0J 20-inch Alloy)
Flying Spur Speed: 9.5J 20-inch Alloy

Tyres (bespoke) Flying Spur:
275/40x19 bespoke Pirelli P Zero (optional 275/35x20)
Flying Spur Speed:275/35x20 Pirelli P-Zero
Tyre pressure monitoring standard

Luggage volume 475 litres (16.7 cu.ft./ 0.47m3)
Fuel tank capacity 90 litres (19.8 gallons/23.8 US gallons)

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Front legroom 1054mm (41.5in)
Rear legroom 980mm (38.58in)

FUEL CONSUMPTION/EMISSIONS
Fuel consumption Urban: 11.2mpg (25.3 litres/100km)
Extra Urban: 24.3mpg (11.6 litres/100km)
Combined: 17.0mpg (16.6 litres/100km)
Carbon dioxide emissions 396g/km
Emission controls EU 1V and US LEV II
EPA Drive Cycle City Driving: 10.0mpg (US)
Highway Driving: 17.0mpg (US)
CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR STANDARD FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS
INCLUDE:
EXTERIOR FEATURES
Bright chromed grille
Black lower grille
Twin Bi-Xenon headlamps with chrome surrounds
Twin oval stainless steel tail pipes
Keyless entry and ignition
Power latching to all doors
Rain sensing wipers
Electronic tyre monitoring system
Choice of 16 standard exterior colours

INTERIOR FEATURES
Burr walnut to fascia, front & rear console and door waistrails
Choice of 17 standard interior hide colours
Single tone, 4-spoke hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
Hide and chrome trimmed gear lever with
manual shift change facility
Four-zone electronic climate control
Electronically adjustable front seats with memory and heat settings
Integrated Bluetooth phone system with remote SIM access profile (rSAP)
Telephone voice dialing
Infotainment system with DVD Satellite Navigation and hi-fi system with remote control and 6 CD changer
Breitling clock
Steering column-mounted gear shift paddles
Engine stop/start button
Electronic cruise control
Footpedal with Bentley 'B' emblem
CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SPEED FEATURE SPECIFICATIONS
INCLUDE:

EXTERIOR FEATURES
Dark chromed radiator and lower grille
Sports tuned exhaust with twin rifled oval stainless steel
Sports tail pipes
Lowered sports suspension (10mm front & rear)
Painted black finish to engine cover
20 x 9,5J wheels with bespoke performance tyres
INTERIOR FEATURES
Unique treadplates bearing 'Speed' name
Diamond quilted hide to seat facings and doors
Embroidered Bentley emblem to head rests
Indented hide headlining
Single-tone, 3-spoke hide-trimmed multi-function
Sports design steering wheel with silver switch surround
Sporting gear lever finished in knurled chrome and hide
Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
A SELECTION OF OPTIONS AVAILABLE SEPARATELY:
Naim for Bentley Premium Audio System
iPod/ MP3/USB interface
Traditional style cross banding and inlay to fascia, door waistrails and upper centre console (Walnut and Chestnut veneers only)
Contemporary style cross banding to door waistrails (Walnut and Chestnut veneers only)
Chrome inlays to waistrails
Choice of upgraded veneers
Fascia panels available in bright or dark tint* aluminium
Fascia panels, header and centre console in bright or dark tint aluminium*
Rear seat configuration with fully adjustable outboard positions and a fixed central seat.
Seat piping to front and rear seats in 17 colours
4-spoke wood and hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel
Exterior paint match service to customer specification
Exterior paint colour from Arnage range

Bentley Continental GTC

2011-05-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

Now, the introduction of the new GTC range builds on this success with a subtle evolution of its distinctive style and a range of technical and feature enhancements benefiting comfort and customer choice. The appeal of the GTC is further strengthened by the addition of the new 600bhp (610PS) GTC Speed model. It is Bentley’s most powerful convertible ever and inspired by Bentley’s legendary ‘Speed Models’ from the 1920s.
The new GTC models share a fresh frontal appearance. The radiator grille is more upright with a more pronounced square edge, accentuating the Bentley profile, and bolder lower air intake. These latest models are further distinguished by chrome headlamp bezels, the availability of two new exterior paints and a new colour hide.
For the standard GTC, new low-friction dampers provide improved ride comfort. In addition, two significant new options may be specified on both GTC models: lightweight, fade-resistant, carbon-ceramic brakes, the largest production passenger car brakes in the world, and a sophisticated follow-to-stop Adaptive Cruise Control system with long-range radar sensor that monitors traffic ahead and manages throttle and brakes to maintain a driver-selected time gap.
The GTC’s chassis and exceptionally rigid steel body have proved more than capable of coping with the power of the 552bhp (560PS) 6-litre W12 engine. For the new Continental GTC Speed, Bentley’s twin-turbocharged W12 now develops 600bhp (610PS) that delivers true 200 mph (322 km/h) performance, with the roof up, with exhilarating, effortless acceleration. Even with the roof down the GTC Speed can reach 195 mph (312 km/h).
The Continental GTC Speed is visually distinguished by subtle design enhancements which emphasise its higher performance credentials. At the front, the radiator and lower air intake grilles feature a dark tinted matrix as standard. Larger diameter 9.5J x 20-inch, multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres, lowered and uprated suspension, wider twin-rifled exhaust tail pipes and a new boot-mounted lip spoiler that enhances high speed aerodynamics, reinforce the sporting character of the Speed model.
The GTC Speed’s 600bhp (610PS) W12 engine develops 9 per cent more power than the standard GTC. However, it is the 15 per cent increase in torque that really distinguishes the Speed model, which now develops an impressive output of 750 Nm (553lb ft). This is achieved across virtually the complete rev range, from just 1700 to 5600 rev/min, delivering that characteristic Bentley wave of torque.
The 0-60 mph sprint is despatched in a mere 4.5 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.8 seconds) and 0-100 mph in 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).
The GT Speed coupe, which debuted in 2007, has become the top selling GT model across the globe. This was followed in summer 2008 by the 4-door Continental Flying Spur Speed. Now, the Speed family is completed with the introduction of the GTC Speed, which is expected to account for up to two-thirds of GTC sales worldwide in its first year of production.
Bentley Chairman and Chief Executive, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen explains the rationale behind the GTC Speed:
“The Continental GTC is an elegant Grand Touring convertible in the Bentley tradition, exciting the emotions with its distinctive blend of performance, luxury, craftsmanship and modernity. The GTC Speed completes the family of Continental Speed models and broadens the appeal of the GTC to customers who demand a more focused, open-top driving experience.”

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GTC – NEWS IN BRIEF
* New more upright front grille and larger, lower air intake
* Chrome headlamp bezels
* Retuned Servotronic power steering for improved feedback and feel
* Optional follow–to -stop, radar–based Adaptive Cruise Control system
* Optional fade-resistant high-power carbon ceramic brakes (only available with 20 - inch wheels)
* Two new exterior colours – Aquamarine & Blue Crystal
* New interior colour – Aquamarine

Technical
* 600 bhp (610PS) W12 engine, 9 per cent more power and 15 per cent more torque
* Top speed (roof up) of 200 mph (322km/h) and 0–60 mph in 4.5 secs (0–100 km/h in 4.8 secs)
* Top speed (roof down) of 195 mph (312 km/h)
* Lowered suspension (10mm front, 15 mm rear) features revised spring, anti-roll bar and damper settings for optimised ride quality, comfort and refinement
* New design 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels with Bentley-bespoke Pirelli PZero UHP 275/35 tyres
* New ‘Dynamic’ mode for ESP 8.1 system with progressive intervention

Exterior
* Dark-tinted matrix grilles to upper and lower air intakes
* Bright chrome matrix grilles available as a no cost option
* Dark tint finish to alloy wheels available as an option
* Wider rifled sports exhaust tail pipes
* New aerodynamic rear spoiler
* Black lower bumper valance

Interior
* ‘Speed’ treadplates to both doors
* 3-spoke Sport leather steering wheel
* Drilled alloy sport foot-pedals
* Knurled chrome and hide gear lever
* Diamond quilted hide to seat facings, door pads and rear quarter panels
* Optional turned aluminium inserts to fascia, centre console and door pad inserts.

Continental GTC
* Power output of the standard W12 engine remains at 552bhp (560PS)
* Top speed is unchanged at 195mph (312km/h) with a 0–60mph time of 4.8 secs (0–100 km/h in 5.1 secs)
* Improved ride comfort with new low-friction dampers
* Bentley ‘B’ brake pedal

Enhanced powertrain delivers more power and torque
Both Continental GTC models are powered by Bentley’s 6-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine which is produced exclusively at the company’s Crewe engine plant. The Bentley W12 is the most compact 12-cylinder engine in production with 48 valves and 4 camshafts with continually variable valve timing. Power is transmitted via a ZF six-speed automatic transmission.
The new Continental GTC Speed is powered by Bentley’s W12 engine in its most powerful, 600 bhp (610PS) form. It develops 15 per cent more torque and 9 per cent more power than the 552bhp (560PS) standard GTC.
Engine efficiency improvements result from the use of lower friction, lighter-weight components and a new engine management system, while twin, low inertia turbochargers with minimal turbo lag contribute to the W12 engine’s flat torque curve. In 600 bhp (610PS) form, the W12 develops a maximum torque of 750 Nm (553 lb ft) from 1700 rev/min all the way up to 5600 rev/min. The GTC Speed engine is visually differentiated by the ‘crackle black’ finish to the intake manifold.
This endows the GTC Speed with a top speed of 200mph (322 km/h) with the roof-up and a 0-60mph sprint time of just 4.5 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.8 secs). It also accelerates from 0-100 mph in just 10.6 seconds (0-160 km/h in 10.5 seconds).
The six-speed transmission can be left in two fully automatic modes (Drive and Sport) or used as a clutchless manual where the driver can change gears sequentially, via either the gearlever or paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.
The advanced continuous all-wheel drive system of both GTC models provides exceptional traction in all weathers. The drive is transferred between the front and rear axles via a highly sensitive centre Torsen differential. If the differential detects a deviation in torque demand between the two axles it automatically sends more power to the wheels with greater grip.
Both the GTC and GTC Speed also feature an advanced electronic stability programme (ESP 8.1). The ‘Sport Traction’ mode for the GTC moderates ESP intervention at low speeds, benefiting driver interaction and control, particularly on low traction surfaces. The ‘Dynamic Mode’ of the GTC Speed allows increased wheel slip at higher speeds compared to the standard chassis. This ensures that torque is reinstated more quickly, allowing the driver to exploit the full potential of the engine.

Brian Gush, Director, Chassis and Powertrain Engineering, comments:
“The new GTC Speed exemplifies our passion for creating cars that deliver exceptional performance and driving enjoyment. It is a driver’s car which will redefine people’s expectations of what a luxury convertible can achieve.”

A luxury convertible with outstanding ride and handling
The Continental GTC’s steel body has an exceptionally rigid torsional stiffness of around 30Hz that not only minimises ‘scuttle shake’ but provides a very stable platform for the aluminium-intensive suspension system, optimising its performance. Despite the boost in power and torque for the GTC Speed model, no changes to the body structure were required.
For the 552bhp (560PS) GTC, new low-friction dampers provide improved secondary ride (the response of the car to poor road surfaces) and even greater levels of comfort.
The GTC Speed has a range of dynamic enhancements that deliver a more sporting, open-top Bentley driving experience. The retuned Continous Damping Control (CDC) system ensures that the body response matches the inputs from the new sports wheels and tyres, while improved body control reduces pitch and roll when cornering enthusiastically. In addition, stiffer rear axle bushes deliver better axle control and turn-in response.
The GTC Speed’s suspension is lowered by 10 mm at the front and 15 mm at the rear for improved handling, while the retuned speed-sensitive steering system and solid-mounted front subframe, shared with the standard GTC, benefit steering response.
The wider 9.5J x 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, unique to the GTC Speed, are fitted with bespoke 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres that provide the car with superior grip as well as sharper steering response and feel.
To ensure optimum aerodynamic balance at speeds up to 200 mph (322 km/h) the new GTC Speed is fitted with a discreet spoiler on the trailing edge of the bootlid. This provides additional downforce and increases the top speed.
For both models, Bentley’s carbon-ceramic brakes (CCB) are offered as a cost option. Larger diameter (420 mm front, 356 mm rear), lightweight discs and eight-piston callipers offer fade-resistant braking performance with minimal disc distortion under high thermal conditions. A 20kg weight saving reduces unsprung mass and benefits steering response and handling. This braking system may only be specified with 20-inch diameter wheels and are the largest and most powerful brakes ever fitted to a production car.
The standard-fit tyre-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) allows drivers to select tyre type and speed range parameters. As well as monitoring pressures, the system warns drivers if their speed is too high for the tyre pressures or if tyre speed ratings are exceeded on winter tyres.

Commenting on the GTC Speed’s character, Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering, said:
“The GTC Speed offers supercar performance, superb refinement, comfort and unrivalled craftsmanship all in one car. It perfectly evokes the spirit of the original Bentley ‘Speed Model’ of the 1920s.”

Subtle evolution of the GTC’s distinctive style
Both the GTC and GTC Speed benefit from subtle revisions to their frontal appearance.
The matrix grille is now more vertical and has a more pronounced square edge that accentuates the distinctive Bentley profile. A new lower bumper design with a widened air intake reinforces the sporting stance of both GTC convertibles, complemented by new chrome headlamp bezels. The new design also provides a practical benefit by improving airflow to the more powerful Speed engine by 14 per cent.
The GTC Speed has a unique set of design cues, notably a dark-tinted matrix grille to the upper and lower air intakes, a black lower bumper valance, wider, rifled exhaust tailpipes and 20-inch, silver-painted, multi-spoke alloy wheels. The wheels are available as an option with a special dark tint finish.
GTC and GTC Speed customers have a choice of 17 ‘standard’ paint colours including two new colours (Aquamarine and Blue Crystal).

Luxurious hand-crafted cabin
The cabins of both GTC and GTC Speed are available with a choice of 6 natural, unbleached, laser-cut wood veneers and 17 premium grade leather hides, including the new option, Aquamarine.
The GTC Speed’s cabin is based on that of the Mulliner Driving Specification (a cost option on the standard GTC). It features diamond quilted hide seats with embroidered Bentley emblems, a knurled chrome and hide gearlever and a three-spoke multi-function steering wheel with brushed aluminium switch surround. These are complemented by drilled alloy foot-pedals and ‘Speed’ logos to the polished treadplates. The standard GTC also receives a new Bentley ‘B’ brake pedal.
A range of options give further opportunities for personalisation, including fascia panels, centre console, door pads and rear quarters in bright aluminium. Uniquely, the GTC Speed is also available with a dark tint aluminium option.

New adaptive cruise control system
A sophisticated follow-to-stop, radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system is now available on both GTC and GTC Speed. It uses a long-range radar sensor, mounted in the lower front grille, to monitor the road ahead for other vehicles. When a slower moving vehicle is detected, the system automatically adjusts the throttle or brakes to maintain a ‘time gap’, as selected by the driver.

GTC and GTC Speed interior key features:
* Electronically powered, insulated three-layer fabric roof folds flat in 25 seconds
* True 2+2 configuration
* Fully adjustable electric front seats incorporating three-position memory (seats, steering column, exterior mirrors) and electric lumbar control with optional massage facility
* Rear seat panel removable to reveal lockable ski hatch
* Electronic climate control system
* Comprehensive infotainment system includes:

- DVD satellite navigation system with route guidance and post-code entry
- Optional television tuner (except for US market)
- Climate control operation
- Computerised suspension control operation (damper and ride height settings)
- 6-CD auto changer in glove compartment
- Optional Naim for Bentley premium audio system featuring 1100 Watt amplifier and 14 speakers

Bentley Azure T

2011-05-22T22:55:00.000-07:00

Though the Bentley Azure T convertible has big power from its sweet twin turbocharged V8, this is a much different car than your typical British luxury sport convertible. The Azure T is a boulevard cruiser first, think effortless power here when it's needed but very cushy luxury all the time.
Just take a look at the interior. Bentley, as might be expected with a car costing multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars, will offer 8 accent wood choices and 25 leather hide types to choose from, allowing each buyer to feel totally comfortable when traveling at more than 170 mph in a portable living room on steroids.
Exterior styling gets some fancy performance accents over "standard" Bentley Azure models, like what Bentley calls ‘Le Mans’ lower front wing air vents and imposing 5-spoke 'Bright Finish' 20 inch alloy wheels. Make no mistake about it, the Azure T is a beautiful car through and through.

Bentley Azure T Performance - More Than a Pretty Face
But the Bentley Azure T, which is perhaps the heaviest convertible in the world at an F150-dwarfing 5699 pound curb weight, still hits 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Chock that up to the 500 bhp twin turbo that also spits out 738 lb-ft. of torque.
All kinds of fancy electronic gizmos ensure that ride stays silky smooth without plowing hard in the corners. Bentley has taken great pains to make this a quiet, neutral car even at speed as much as any drop to can be. Bentley boasts that the Azure T has the largest brake calipers fitted to any production car in existance. The ultra high-tech braking system, with calipers made from carbon/silicon carbide, give the Azure T enough slow-down-and-stop to offset big torque and disgusting vehicle weight.
This is rare convertible with enough utility to be a daily driver. The massive trunk, unfettered by the folding soft top, will have no trouble swallowing your golf clubs. Not like it matters much, as Bentley Azure T buyers carry 4-car garages at minimum.

BENTLEY AZURE T
* The world’s most elegant four-seat convertible now with 500bhp Azure T model
* Azure T delivers exhilarating, class-leading performance
* Unique Bentley ‘T’ styling cues reinforce the sleek, sporting stance of the Azure

INTRODUCTION
(Crewe, England. 12 November 2008). Stylish and powerful, the new Bentley Azure T is the world’s most elegant convertible and destined to become a future classic. With unique Bentley ‘T’ styling cues reinforcing its sporting stance, the 500bhp Azure T delivers driver-focused performance with the ability to transport four adults in first-class, open-top luxury.
The new Azure T, specified with the high performance version of Crewe’s iconic 6¾ litre V8 engine, is the latest in a line of Bentley models to bear the ‘T’ legend. The 1996 Continental coupe was the first modern Bentley ‘T’, followed in 2002 by the Arnage T, both flagship models with a distinctive sporting character and thunderous performance.
The Azure’s already striking form is now enhanced by 20-inch 5-spoke wheels and tyres, ‘Le Mans’ front wing vents, dark tint matrix grille and a sculpted, retractable Flying ‘B’ mascot.
For the performance-oriented Azure T, the twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque – an 11 per cent increase in power and a 14 per cent increase in torque over its 450bhp/875 Nm Azure stable mate.
The famous Bentley wave of torque is even more prodigious than before and performance is significantly raised with a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) and a 0-60 mph time of just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 sec). Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, Stuart McCullough comments:
“The new Azure T reflects our passion for creating the world’s most exhilarating and prestigious convertibles that, true to the Bentley T tradition, blend sophistication with a powerful presence.”

BENTLEY AZURE T – NEWS IN BRIEF
* Exterior design styling changes, as standard, include:
20-inch five-spoke ‘Bright Finish’ alloy wheels
Retractable ‘Flying B’ bonnet mascot
Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles
‘Le Mans’ lower front wing air vents
Bentley ‘Jewel’ fuel filler cap
Twin exhaust tail pipes
Choice of 42 exterior paint colours
* Interior design enhancements, as standard, include:
Diamond quilting to seats and door panels
Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals
‘Engine-turned’ aluminium finish to fascia
Instrument faces in black
Embroidered ‘Bentley’ emblems to front seats and rear seat centre
iPod/USB interface
Choice of 8 unbleached veneers and 25 hides from full Bentley range
Knurled finish to: organ stops, mirror adjustors, door handles (interior and exterior), light switch and seat lumbar controls
Knurled & chromed gear knob

* Further enhancements to the standard Azure T specification include:
Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot
Hide covered boot rail

* Further enhancements to the Azure T optional specification include:
‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system delivering the world’s best in-car sound stage and featuring 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual Digital Signal Processor (DSP) modes to reproduce true emotions and a ‘live’ concert-like experience.

* Arnage T powertrain with 6¾ litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque – increases of 11% and 14 % respectively
* Top speed raised to 179 mph (288 km/h).
* 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds).
* Acceleration to 100 mph cut to 12.1 seconds (0-160 km/h in 12.0 seconds).
* Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts
* Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected
* Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard

A UNIQUE OPEN-TOP MOTORING EXPERIENCE
Based on the Azure, the Azure T offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance and hint at its increased performance potential. Key ingredients of its distinctive appearance include design features 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and ‘Le Mans’ l1ower front wing air vents.
Further distinguishing points from the Azure are standard features such as dark-tinted upper and lower grilles, ‘jewel’ fuel filler cap (made from billet aluminium) and door mirror mountings finished in body colour.
Like the Bentley Brooklands, the Azure T sports the iconic Flying ‘B’ mascot, which can retract neatly into the grille surround. Originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby, the ‘B’ was first used on the 1930 Bentley 8-Litre.
With exterior lines that echo visual elements of the Bentley Mk.6 from 1946, the Azure was enthusiastically received on its original debut as a concept car at the Los Angeles Show in January 2005. Now, as the Azure T makes its own ‘debut’ at LA, Raul Pires, Manager of Exterior design for Bentley Motors, notes:
“The Azure’s proportions provided us with the ideal platform to work with when creating the new Azure T. The prominent haunches and ‘supermodel’ body inspired our designers to create a new interpretation of a Bentley convertible with the accent placed on a more muscular, sporting stance.”
Bentley’s designers highlight the 1955 Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupé and 1995 Azure as the main influences for the current Azure and Azure T. Like the ’50s convertible, the car has a deep body with a single feature line that runs along both flanks and rises at the powerful rear haunches before spearing off at the rear of the car. Similarly, the Azure T’s fast and flowing roofline is echoed in its seven-bow canvas roof that gives the car a visible sporting profile when raised.
Prominent wheel arches grace a slender, narrowing boot that results in a ‘horse shoe’ trailing edge. This elegant shape is reminiscent of the first Crewe-built Bentley, the Mk.6, and the overall effect is a subtle hint at the power and performance that lies beneath the Azure T’s bodywork.
Delicate brightware detailing accentuates the flowing lines of the Azure T and this includes rear tail-lamp bezels, exhaust finishes and slender strips that run the length of the car.
Significant time and effort has gone into making the Azure T’s folding roof attractive as well as highly functional. Operated hydraulically at the touch of a switch, the impressive, three-layer canvas roof is elegantly stowed beneath the rear parcel shelf in a matter of 25 seconds. Because the roof is held in a separate well area, there is no impact on the generous boot space which was designed to hold two sets of golf clubs and hand luggage.

EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE FROM MIGHTY V8
The engine and transmission of the Azure T are identical to those already employed in the high-performance Arnage T and Arnage Final Series saloons. In this specification, Bentley’s remarkable all-aluminium 6¾ litre V8 engine produces 500 bhp (507PS/373kW) and 1000 Nm (738lb ft) of torque – with over 90 per cent of that torque available between 1,800 and 3,800 rev/min – figures that ensure the signature Bentley ‘wave of torque’ delivers effortless performance for a unique open-top convertible driving experience.
Each of these hand-made V8 engines comes with a black-finish air intake manifold bearing the signature of the team leader who oversaw its construction by Bentley technicians in the Crewe factory. The six-speed ZF automatic transmission ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Manual) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500 bhp V8 engine.
A sophisticated electronic management system provides fast yet smooth gearshifts regardless of how the car is being driven. Another important feature of the latest Azure T is the separation of the sports suspension and sports gearbox settings, allowing the driver to select their preference for each system independently – via a ‘Sport’ switch on the dashboard for the suspension and by positioning the gearlever for the transmission’s Sport mode.
Bentley’s V8 guarantees outstanding performance levels. From standstill, acceleration to 60 mph is achieved in just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h 5.5 seconds), 100 mph reached in 12.1 seconds (160 km/h in 12.0 seconds) and a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) is possible.

DYNAMIC HANDLING, SUPERB RIDE AND AWESOME BRAKING
The Azure’s double wishbone front and rear suspension is carried over to the Azure T unaltered. Set-up and fine-tuned to give a refined ride that best suits the character of this convertible Bentley, the system features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation.
The Azure T’s suspension delivers impressive body control in all driving conditions, while the new five-spoke, two-piece 8.5J x 20-inch Sports alloy wheels with 255/40 ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tyres further improve handling and road holding.
As an option, Azure T owners may specify an upgraded braking system with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake ventilated discs. Measuring 420 x 40 mm (front) and 356 x 28 mm (rear), these discs are the largest fitted to any production car on sale today. With eight-piston callipers, the brakes provide impressive deceleration and also give an 8 kg reduction in unsprung weight, benefiting steering response, ride suppleness and acceleration.
This lightweight braking system ensures virtually fade-free use, time after time, and superb resistance to disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal use, the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and pad life is doubled compare to the standard system.
For Azure T and its Bentley stable mates, the Traction Control system is calibrated with the aim of avoiding all unnecessary reductions in engine torque. The ESP logic system, which is set up to allow spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety, monitors the car’s overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the Azure T’s V8 engine to be fully exploited.
The Bentley Azure T enjoys an 11 per cent power and 14 per cent torque increase compared with Azure and the strength and stiffness of the original chassis are such that no changes were deemed necessary, as Brian Gush, Director of Powertrain and Chassis, explains:
“The Azure chassis has always had an immense potential and this enables us to offer the extra power of our 500 bhp V8 engine and the driver-focused qualities of a true Bentley T without compromising ride comfort.”
Compared with the Arnage, the Azure T benefits from significant stiffening members. These strengthened steel parts lie in the sill section of the car and extend into the A-pillars that form the windscreen frame. Beneath the front and rear of the Azure, carbon fibre cross-bracing members reinforce the whole bodyshell, while adding far less weight than steel.
Strengthening has also been applied to the body structure behind the rear seats where an advanced rollover protection system is fitted. This immediately detects if the car is in danger of inverting and deploys two hoops that are integrated within the rear headrests. In conjunction with the strengthened front windscreen frame, these are capable of supporting 2.5 times the entire weight of an over-turned car.

EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP
Befitting its role as a new Bentley flagship convertible, the Azure T embodies a range of standard features that were previously unavailable or only available as cost options on the Azure. The seats and door panels have Diamond Quilting, the fascia features an ‘engine-turned’ aluminium finish (reminiscent of 1920s racing Bentleys), and the instrument faces are finished in Black rather than Parchment.
Bentley emblems are embroidered on the front seat backs and the rear seat centre, an iPod/USB interface is provided, while the full range of Bentley’s premium veneers is available, a knurled finish is applied to several handles and switches and a knurled, chrome gear knob is fitted.
The new Azure T will have a strong appeal to Bentley customers, as Trevor Gay, Personal Commissioning Manager at Mulliner (Bentley’s specialist commissioning department), explains:
“The Azure has always stood apart from the rest of the Bentley range and the higher-performance Azure T will allow customers the opportunity to use the Mulliner service to create a bespoke convertible to their exact specification.”
Although many of the most desirable Mulliner options are included in Azure T as standard, Bentley anticipates that the majority of buyers will request additional enhancements. Inside, the Azure T is everything customers would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, discerning audience. The interior offers a spacious, luxurious cabin to provide the ultimate in first-class, open-top travel for four adults.
As in every Bentley, craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim, be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel, uses authentic materials.
Azure T is available in the full Bentley range of 42 exterior colours, 25 interior hides, and the full range of premium veneers, plus the comprehensive line-up of Mulliner options and its bespoke colour-matching service that enable Bentley owners to create a uniquely personal car.
Of course, the nature of a convertible means that its interior is often on display as much as its exterior and Bentley’s design team knew that the Azure T’s spacious cabin should make a strong a statement. Consequently, warm and inviting leather hide extend past the seats and onto the parcel shelf and this emphasises the dimensions of the rear compartment.
A new audio head unit with larger display screen and an SD (secure digital) memory card slot instead of the single CD slot is fitted. At the rear, a new hide-covered boot rail with coordinated leather trim and a chrome strip along the top edge gives the load area a tidier, premium appearance.
All Azure T models come with an iPod Interface linked to the Infotainment system, enabling customers to play their favourite music through the car’s audio system. The system is supplied with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and a 3.5 mm AUX jack and includes a 12 volt power outlet for charging purposes.
As an option, Azure T buyers can specify the Naim for Bentley premium audio system. Created in partnership with Bentley by Naim Audio, a UK-based high end hi-fi manufacturer, this system features 10 speakers, a dual-channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual DSP modes to reproduce true emotions and a ‘live’ concert-like experience.
In Azure T the sub-woofers are located in the rear passenger footwells and contained within a special enclosure to ensure the sound of this pure music remains within the open cabin.

BENTLEY MULSANNE

2011-05-22T22:45:00.000-07:00

Nearly 80 years later, while paying respect to this illustrious past, the new Mulsanne is a thoroughly modern statement of luxury driving and grand touring. Conceived, styled and engineered entirely at Bentley’s headquarters in Crewe, England, the Mulsanne, with its completely new and unique platform, goes into production next year in a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility within the Crewe factory.
Introducing the Bentley Mulsanne at Pebble Beach, where Bentley was the featured marque, Dr. Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, said:
“The challenge we set our engineers was to create a new grand Bentley that would stand as the pinnacle of British luxury motoring, offering the world’s most exclusive driving experience. They have responded to this challenge with real passion and the result is a luxury grand tourer that sets new standards in terms of comfort, effortless performance and hand-crafted refinement – the very qualities for which Bentley is renowned.“
The Bentley design team, lead by Dirk van Braeckel, have created a flagship that offers the classic sporting, styling cues long-associated with Bentley - expressed in a thoroughly contemporary way.
“From the very first hand sketches in the styling studio, we were inspired by the traditions of the grand touring Bentleys and have sought to evolve this story for a new generation of Bentley enthusiasts.”
The return of the Mulsanne name to a car carrying Bentley’s iconic ‘Winged B’ emblem underlines the company’s racing pedigree and nowhere reflects that heritage better than the famed Le Mans circuit, the scene of no fewer than six Bentley triumphs. Few places offer a stronger or more emotive connection with the Bentley marque than the famed Mulsanne corner.
The Bentley 8-litre displayed alongside the Mulsanne in California was first shown at the 1930 London Motor Show. It was the second-built and was W.O. Bentley’s company car for two years. Capable of reaching more than 100 mph, the 8-litre demonstrated W.O. Bentley’s ambition and ability to build a grand luxury car capable of surpassing every other leading manufacturer of the day. A total of 100 cars were built in 1930 and 1931.
“The 8-litre’s breathtaking performance and quality was perhaps the finest example of a ‘pure’ grand Bentley. Every mechanical detail carried W.O. Bentley’s unique stamp and it was the clearest demonstration of a car built without compromise,” commented Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board Engineering.
“The Mulsanne has been designed with exactly the same guiding principles, so it is entirely fitting that these Bentleys from different eras share the same stage.”
The Bentley Mulsanne will go on sale from mid 2010. It will also be displayed at the forthcoming IAA Frankfurt Motor Show (15-27th September, 2009) where Bentley Motors will provide additional product information.

BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT

2011-05-22T22:35:00.000-07:00

Now the new Continental GT 4-seat coupe builds on the success of its iconic predecessor, capturing that GT spirit but with even higher standards of design, engineering, luxury, craftsmanship, dynamic performance, everyday practicality and refinement.
A beautifully sculptured new body gives the GT coupe an even crisper, more defined appearance. The contemporary interior offers new levels of cabin design, comfort and hand-crafted luxury. The seats, for example, provide even greater support and rear leg-room; a sweeping dashboard even more style and modernity. The new touchscreen infotainment system features state-of-the-art navigation, Google Maps and entertainment while the latest Balanced Mode Radiator speaker technology and Dirac Dimensions™ digital sound processing deliver enhanced audio quality.
Bentley’s acclaimed 6-litre, 12-cylinder, twin-turbocharged powertrain now has a raised power output of 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) of torque and this is mated to a new Quickshift transmission which enables double downshifts. Thanks to advanced FlexFuel technology it can also run on both standard unleaded petrol (gasoline) and sustainable bioethanol (up to E85) or any mix of the two.
In late 2011 an all-new, high-output 8-cylinder engine will also be available to order. This advanced power unit will deliver a 40 percent reduction in emissions compared with the W12 engine and will offer a class-leading CO2 emissions-to-power ratio with Bentley levels of performance and refinement.
Both engines are coupled to an all-wheel drive system with a sporty 40:60 rear-torque bias (compared with the 50:50 bias of the original Continental GT), minimising understeer during hard cornering and allowing the experienced driver to control the car’s line and balance via precise throttle control.
“The new Continental GT is an automotive work of art, with superb craftsmanship and elegant, contemporary design. It drives like a supercar, but without the usual sacrifices in ride or practicality. It is a car that you can enjoy every moment of every day.”
Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen, Chairman and Chief Executive
THE NEW CONTINENTAL GT COUPE – AT A GLANCE
Sculptured exterior design
•Advanced production techniques such as aluminium Super Forming (front wings and boot lid) allow for a more sculpted body and sharp ‘power lines’
•Unique jewelled headlamps with LED daytime-running lights
•More upright matrix radiator grille and new ‘double horseshoe’ rear profile first shown on the flagship Bentley Mulsanne Contemporary, hand-crafted cabin
•New interior with a bold, sweeping dashboard and instrument panel finished in premium, soft-touch leather hides
•Distinctive ‘cobra’-design seats for added comfort and enhanced rear cabin space
•A new touchscreen, 30GB infotainment system introduces advanced satellite navigation with dynamic route guidance, seven-digit postcode entry and Google Map compatibility (market specific)
•Audio systems feature the latest wide frequency Balance Mode Radiator speakers as standard
•Revolutionary Dirac Dimensions™ DSP for exceptional sound reproduction (Naim for Bentley premium audio).
More powerful W12 and new high-efficiency V8 FlexFuel engines
•6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 575PS(567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) of torque.
•0 – 60mph in 4.4 seconds (0 – 100km/h in 4.6 seconds)
•0 – 100mph in 10.2 seconds (0 – 160km/h in 10.2 seconds)
•Top speed of 198mph (318km/h)
•Overall weight saving of 65kg (143lb) versus predecessor
•New high-output, high-efficiency V8 engine due for release in late 2011.
Dynamic Bentley driving experience
•ZF 6HP28 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50% and enables double downshifts
•New 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
•Increased front and rear track improves grip and stability
•Advanced ESC system fully exploits the potential of the more powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
•20” and (optional) 21” wheels
SCULPTURED EXTERIOR EXUDES QUALITY AND DESIGN INTEGRITY
Inspired by the iconic Bentleys of the past, Bentley’s design team under the leadership of Director of Design, Dirk van Braeckel, has created a thoroughly modern, sculptured body, built with advanced production technologies to ensure the highest standards of quality and body integrity.

Aluminium Super Forming technology is employed to create the front wings and the boot lid. This process heats the aluminium panels to nearly 500 degrees Celsius before shaping them by air pressure. By using a single sheet of aluminium, no seams or welding are required.
The latest body construction techniques deliver crisp, highly defined feature lines and form to every area of the exterior design. The familiar power lines and rear haunches – echoes of the original 1950s R-Type Continental – now have even sharper radii to create highly distinct surfaces, bringing the feel of a truly coachbuilt car to the new coupe.
The GT coupe’s new look is bolder than ever. The classic Bentley matrix radiator grille is more upright, while the new headlamp design, in traditional four-lamp format, has exquisite jewel-like detailing including eye-catching, LED daylight-running lamps.
At the rear, Bentley signature ‘floating’ LED lamps extend around the corners of the wings, emphasising the new coupe’s width and purposeful stance. The track is wider by41mm at the front and 48mm at the rear than the previous model. The bootlid design has a powerful ‘double horse-shoe’ motif, reminiscent of the new Bentley Mulsanne, while flared elliptical exhaust tailpipes reinforce the new GT’s sporting credentials.

The shape of the new GT coupe’s body is also more aerodynamic following extensive wind tunnel analysis. In conjunction with a range of extensive underbody refinements (including wheel arch and exhaust aerodynamic aids) the GT’s coefficient of drag has been reduced to 0.33Cd and the lift at the front and rear axles has also been reduced to create greater stability at higher speeds.
The new GT is specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard, with, for the first time on the Continental family, the option to upgrade to 21-inch designs. Three styles of wheel are offered – a 20-inch five-spoke version and two 21-inch Elegant and split-rim Sports variations, which come in a variety of chromed and painted finishes.
“The new GT coupe has an even stronger sporting character than ever before. It is an exceptionally refined and comfortable 2+2 Grand Tourer but with the heart, soul and looks of a supercar.”
Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design
CONTEMPORARY, HAND-CRAFTED CABIN WITH BENTLEY’S RENOWNED REFINEMENT
With an entirely hand-crafted interior, the Continental GT’s cabin sets new standards in refinement and luxury to create a stylish space in which up to four people can relax in total comfort.
The instrument panel and dashboard subtly echo the flying wings of the Bentley motif and are fashioned from the highest quality soft-touch leathers. New touchscreen technology and chrome-bezelled dials are housed within this dynamic cockpit area, which rises from the centre console in the form of dramatically surfaced ’wing’ buttresses.
The striking and unique ‘Cobra’ design seats are supremely comfortable thanks to the introduction of the latest body-supporting materials which use complex foams to provide softness at first touch but with excellent support over longer journeys.
The seats can be specified with front-seat ventilation as well as a state-of-the-art massage system with 10 individual massage cells and individual side airbags are provided as standard for all passengers. Front seatbelts feature a new electrically-operated automatic presenter, making buckling-up effortless. Driver knee airbags are standard fitment.
The new Continental GT offers superb everyday usability. The new slim-line front seats with scalloped backs also provide a further 46mm of legroom for back-seat passengers and easy access to the rear cabin.
No other Grand Tourer offers such impressive levels of refinement thanks to the advanced noise-suppression technology that includes acoustic glazing, under-floor shields and hidden anti-vibration panels throughout the interior.
The cabin is trimmed with soft-touch leathers, a full range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets – all hand-crafted in Bentley’s unrivalled workshops at the factory in Crewe, England. The attention to detail even extends to applying a UV stabilizer to the wood veneers to protect from bleaching, thus ensuring they can be enjoyed as new for decades to come.
Every leather hide is still sewn under the watchful eye of Bentley’s highly skilled craftsmen and women. By incorporating ingenious, angled ‘ramps’ behind the leather, the interior designers have created sharp, well-defined styling lines, while maintaining a soft-touch.
Other simple yet practical functions include a powered boot as standard, Electronic Park Brake with Move Off Assist and newly designed, leather-lined door stowage bins with an integrated bottle holder.
Perhaps the most stylish new storage device in the new Continental GT is the exquisitely designed, folding, removable case designed to hold items such as keys and pens and which can also be slipped into a pocket or bag. Crafted from veneers to match those of the coupe’s interior, the case (available as a cost option) is finished with inlaid Bentley wings, satin-chromed and leather-lined, and is secured in a recess above the twin drinks holders in the centre console.
“The new GT coupe interior combines form, practicality and innovation. Our task was to translate the original design sketches for the car’s cabin – which were quite extreme, almost revolutionary for a Bentley – into the final design. The result is a cockpit that moves the Continental GT on to the next generation.”
CLASS-LEADING INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS
Complementing its contemporary cabin, the new Continental GT also features advanced new touchscreen technology with rich map imagery and a 30GB on board hard drive.
The 8-inch screen displays the car’s audio system, telephone, ride and comfort settings and the very latest navigation system, which uses both an in-car hard-disc drive and a DVD player to access route data. It also employs dynamic navigation to guide you around areas of heavy traffic, finds destinations using geo-tagged photos from an SD memory card and is Google Maps-compatible (market specific).
The infotainment system, with 7 digit postcode entry, uses a combination of touchscreen controls and classic knurled rotary switches to offer instant usability and crystal-clear feedback. The graphic interface of the screen is engineered in-house to ensure its visuals are completely in keeping with the style of the interior. Look closely and you will see that the knurled switches on the screen are ‘virtual’ echoes of the knurled switches below.
The Continental GT’s new infotainment system also provides the ultimate in in-car audio entertainment. An eight-speaker sound system is offered as standard employing the latest Balanced Mode Radiator technology. These unique compact, flat-panel speakers provide exceptional clarity with a very wide frequency range.
An 11-speaker Naim for Bentley system – created exclusively for the Continental GT by British audiophiles Naim – employs revolutionary Dirac Dimensions ™ digital signal processing. This industry-first technology creates a virtual ‘sound field’ independent of speaker layout to deliver concert hall-quality sound reproduction for every occupant wherever they may be sitting.
The GT coupe also benefits from telephone and music player connectivity, digital television (where available) and DVD movie playback. Music can be played and controlled directly from an iPod®as well as from a six-disc CD changer, SD card reader or directly from the car’s hard-disc drive, which can store up to 15GB of music.
MORE POWERFUL W12 AND NEW HIGH-OUTPUT, HIGH-EFFICIENCY V8
The Continental GT is set to have a choice of two very distinctive high-performance engines. In addition to the new 575PS version of Crewe’s renowned 6.0 litre W12 powertrain, a new high-output 4.0-litre V8 engine option will be introduced in late 2011.
The new 4.0-litre V8 engine honours Bentley’s environmental commitment to deliver a powertrain that achieves a 40 percent improvement in CO2 emissions. The new V8 is being designed specifically by Bentley’s engineers to deliver all the exhilarating power and torque synonymous with the marque. The new Crewe-built engine will also offer a class-leadingCO2 emissions-to-power ratio.
At launch, the new Continental GT coupe is powered by the latest evolution of Bentley’s acclaimed 12-cylinder, 6-litre twin-turbocharged engine, now calibrated to provide even greater performance, thanks to increases in power, torque and fuel efficiency.
Designed in a unique ‘W’ configuration, it is the most compact and technologically advanced 12-cylinder engine in the world. Four camshafts and 48 valves allow the engine to breathe effortlessly and help to generate the distinctive Bentley wave of torque. It is also capable of running on petrol (gasoline), E85 bioethanol or any mix of the two – all from a single tank.
In 2008, Bentley announced a far-reaching environmental programme that included a 15 percent improvement in powertrain efficiency and the adoption across the Bentley model range of FlexFuel technology by 2012. Bentley’s FlexFuel models are capable of delivering potential CO2 reductions of up to 70 percent on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis – the measurement of CO2 released by a fuel from its production (well) through to its combustion or deployment (wheel).
To ensure that the power and torque generated remain constant (whatever the fuel) an advanced Fuel Quality Sensor continuously monitors the ratio of the fuels used. It then guides the Engine Control Unit to adjust the engine’s timing. This provides the seamless power delivery for which Bentley engines are renowned, and ensures there is no compromise on performance when using fuels that create lower CO2 emissions.

Further revisions to the new GT coupe’s engine include low friction, lightweight components which allow the W12-format engine to rev even more freely, while the latest engine management system and twin, low-inertia turbochargers are optimised to ensure minimal turbo lag.
Overall, the GT coupe is 65kg lighter than its predecessor thanks to reductions in all areas of the car from engine components through to new seats. With its power output raised by 15PS and torque by 50 Nm - to 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) – the result is a 6 percent improvement in the new GT’s power-to weight-ratio, making it capable of accelerating from zero to 60mph in just 4.4 seconds (0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds) with a top speed of 198mph (318km/h).
The increased power and torque are transmitted to the all-wheel drive system via an uprated six-speed Quickshift transmission, which halves shift times (to just 200 milliseconds). The revised gearbox also has the ability to deliver double downshifts (sixth to fourth gear, for example) and improves acceleration across the entire gear range. To cope with the additional power and torque, the planetary gear set of the six-speed ZF transmission is also strengthened.
Positive torque during downshifts is achieved through engine and gearbox electronic controller interaction for extra throttle and fuel injection during the overrun, replicating manual throttle ‘blips’ for precise rev matching . During transmission upshifts, fuel and ignition are cut momentarily to give faster mechanical shift times through torque reduction, also improving shift quality and durability.
“The W12’s extra power and torque and Quickshift transmission endow the new GT with instantly accessible supercar performance across the complete rev range. At the same time, Bentley’s pioneering use of FlexFuel technology underlines our ongoing environmental commitment.”
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE FOR OPTIMISED RIDE AND HANDLING
Both engines are coupled with a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions and all weathers.
In the new coupe, the power split has a 40:60 rear bias for a significantly more sporting feel in terms of handling and mid-corner acceleration. However, it can adjust instantaneously the power split between the front and rear wheels depending on the available grip. In addition, an uprated Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system provides additional security and grip whatever your driving style.
The new GT’s chassis delivers the optimum ride and handling balance. The wide front and rear track benefits agility and handling, while solid aluminium cast-forged, high-stiffness front suspension uprights and aluminium gravity die castings at the rear work in conjunction with a redesigned front anti-roll bar and retuned spring and damper settings. The result is improved response and stability at all speeds.
Continuous Damping Control (CDC) constantly monitors the car’s attitude and poise. By adjusting the suspension settings hundreds of times a second it can provide a remarkably supple ride at low speeds and increased control as speeds climb. It can also lower the car in ‘V-Max’ mode for enhanced stability at the highest speeds.
SUMMARY
Throughout Bentley’s history, iconic grand tourers have forged the marque’s reputation. In the 1950s the beautiful R-Type Continental set new standards of performance and style. In 2003, Continental GT revolutionised the luxury coupe market, combining supercar performance and dynamism with remarkable everyday practicality.
Now, the new Continental GT coupe sets even higher standards in every area of design, craftsmanship and engineering.

BENTLEY MOTORS SHOWCASES NEW CONTINENTAL SUPERSPORTS

2011-05-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

Americas’ motor show debut for new 2011 Bentley Continental Supersports Convertible
o Bentley’s fastest, most potent drop-top ever will be available from this summer, starting at $280,400
o FlexFuel technology becomes standard on all 2011 Continental models, reaffirming Bentley’s on-going environmental commitment to make all its cars biofuel-compatible by 2012
(31 March 2010. New York, NY USA) Bentley Motors is showcasing its fastest, most potent drop-top ever – the new 2011 Continental Supersports Convertible – during the New York Motor Show beginning this week. The newest addition to the Continental model range features a 621-horsepower, twin-turbocharged W12 engine that is capable of running on both gasoline and E85 bioethanol, making it both powerful and environmentally conscious.
The new, muscular four-seat Supersports Convertible will be priced from $280,400 when it arrives at Bentley retailers this summer. Unmistakably Bentley in its design and craftsmanship, its interior signifies a dramatic re-interpretation of Bentley luxury. Satin-finished carbon fibre, Alcantara™ and ‘Soft Grip’ leather create a unique ambience with a distinctly sporting and contemporary style.
The entire 2011 Continental model range, including the new Supersports Convertible, will be capable of running on both gasoline and E85 bioethanol, or any combination of the two, reaffirming Bentley’s ongoing commitment to make all its cars biofuel compatible by 2012. Pioneered by the Supersports Coupe, this FlexFuel technology offers a reduction of up to 70 percent in CO2 emissions on a ‘well-to-wheel’ basis, a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions.
“The new Supersports Convertible is the most powerful drop-top we’ve ever produced,” said Christophe Georges, President & Chief Operating Officer for Bentley Motors, Inc. “This extreme power combines with pioneering FlexFuel technology, now shared with all Continental models, reflecting Bentley’s ongoing commitment to more environmental motoring.”
The Continental Supersports Convertible
The new Continental Supersports Convertible is a car that must be driven to be fully understood. Behind the wheel it is immediately clear that a Supersports Bentley is a ‘fusion of extremes’ – the ultimate in extreme performance, every day practicality and unrivalled hand-crafted luxury.

Bentley’s Supersports program began as an ‘under the radar’ project exploring the possibilities of weight reduction on the Continental GT Coupé but with more power and torque. The largely experimental project soon crystallized into an official new car program, driven by the passion and enthusiasm of a small group of Bentley engineers and designers. Now the Supersports Convertible has received the same focus and the results are equally dramatic.
“The ‘extreme’ Bentley stable now has a new occupant in the form of the Supersports Convertible,” said Dr. Ulrich Eichhorn, Member of the Board, Engineering. “It is a car every bit as purposeful and potent as the Coupé but with the panache of roof-down motoring.”
FlexFuel Technology Introduced On All 2011 Continental Models
FlexFuel technology, pioneered on the Continental Supersports Coupé in 2009, is now extended to the complete 2011 Continental range, including the new Supersports Convertible. The W12 6-liter power unit now has the technology to run on gasoline, E85 bioethanol or any mix of these two fuels – all from a single tank.
Bioethanol is blended with gasoline in a variety of percentages ranging from E10 (10 percent bioethanol) to the most widely known, E85, a ratio of 85 percent bioethanol to 15 percent gasoline to ensure cold-start capability.
Bioethanol presents other unique engineering challenges compared with gasoline, due to its chemical composition and characteristics. E85 biofuel has a very high octane rating of 105 but a lower energy content that requires a 30 percent increase in the engine fuel-flow rate.
This necessitated a complete review of the fuel system to identify and, if required, replace components deemed to be insufficiently resistant to the properties of ethanol.
Increased fuel flow is achieved through a returnless fuel system, twin variable flow-fuel pumps and a new closed-loop fuel rail design with pressure sensor. For the fuel system all O-rings, seals, gaskets and pipes are new while new valve coatings and hardened valve seat material provide additional lubrication. New spark plugs with a wider heat range allow for slower combustion.
A snsor in the fuel supply system detects the blending ratio in real time and varies the engine mapping to ensure power, torque and emissions remain at the same levels whatever fuel is used.
FlexFuel offers the possibility of up to a 70 percent reduction in CO2 net emissions on a ‘well to wheel’ basis, calculated by adding the CO2 emitted during the extraction and refining process (the ‘well’) with the CO2 released when the fuel is burnt during motoring (the ‘wheel’).
Biofuels can be sourced from sugar cane or soybean, or from “second-generation” sources such as agricultural waste and forestry residues. As biofuels are not derived from fossil fuels, the CO2 released during combustion is reabsorbed by plants during the photosynthesis process, thus creating an unbroken energy cycle.
The New Continental Supersports Convertible – At a Glance
The fastest, most potent drop-top Bentley ever
• 6-liter W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 621bhp at 6,000 rev/min and 590lb ft of torque at 2,000-4,500 rev/min
• 0 – 60mph in 3.9 seconds
• 0 -100mph in 9.6 seconds
• Top speed of 202mph
• Overall weight saving of 198 lbs versus GTC Speed
A highly focussed, extreme Bentley convertible driving experience
• Revised ZF 6HP26 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by 50 percent and enables double downshifts
• New 40/60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering’
• Retuned Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system, stiffer suspension bushes and uprated rear anti-roll bar benefit body control, steering response, turn-in and balance
• Increased 2-inch rear track improves grip and stability
• Lightweight, 20-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels offer 22 lbs weight saving per car, reducing unsprung and rotating mass and improving brake cooling
• 275/35 ZR20 Pirelli Ultra High Performance tires
• Advanced ESP system fully exploits potential of the powerful W12 engine and improved chassis
• Standard-fit carbon-ceramic brakes provide fade-free braking and contribute a 44 lb reduction in rotating and unsprung mass from the front axle
Muscular yet elegant styling with four-seat practicality
• Form follows function: distinctive center air intake and vertical grilles feed larger volume of air (+ ten percent) to turbocharger intercoolers while bonnet vents extract hot air from engine bay
• Subtly curved rear wheel arches with newly tooled side panels accommodate increased rear track of the uprated chassis and provide muscular stance
• Distinctive ‘smoked steel finish’ to all exterior ‘brightware,’ including the first automotive application of ‘Physical Vapour Deposition’ to stainless steel
• Larger, twin elliptical exhaust tailpipes and rear valance with discreet vertical divider
• Fixed rear boot lid spoiler for improved aerodynamics
• Unique driver-focused, four-seat cabin
• Lightweight, carbon fibre, front sports seats, saving 99 lbs per car
• Alcantara™, carbon fibre and ‘Soft Grip’ leather provide a new interpretation of Bentley craftsmanship
The standardization of FlexFuel capability across the 2011 Continental model range reaffirms Bentley’s on-going environmental commitment
• FlexFuel available on all 2011 Continental models, including the new Supersports Convertible, from June 2010
• All Continental models are now capable of running on gasoline and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two
• Power and torque remain constant whatever the ratio of gasoline to E85 biofuel
• A Fuel Quality Sensor detects the blending ratio of the fuel in real time sending a signal to the engine control unit (ECU), initiating the correct engine mapping. This ensures all performance parameters remain balanced and consistent
• Offers a reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 70 percent (well-to-wheel,) a measure of a fuel’s net contribution to the atmosphere, not just tailpipe emissions
ENDS

TOYOTA ALPHARD

2011-05-22T22:12:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Alphard is a luxury MPV produced by the Japanese automaker Toyota since 2002. It is available as a seven or eight-seater with 2.4 and 3.0-litre gasoline engines in 3 different model lines - Alphard G, Alphard V and Alphard Hybrid. The Alphard is primarily made for the Japanese market, but is also sold in Indonesia, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Singapore Thailand, and Malaysia. The vehicle was named after the Alphard, the brightest star in the constellation Hydra.

Toyota states its "E-Four electric 4WD system that regulates a rear-mounted, rear-wheel-propelling electric motor and coordinates electric power distribution to all four wheels. An ECB (Electrically Controlled Brake system) provides efficient wheel-by-wheel brake control."

The full-size Alphard Hybrid MPV qualifies as an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV), achieving levels 75% lower emissions than the Japanese government's 2000 benchmark. The 2.4-litre gasoline engine has been developed specifically for use in Toyota's hybrid systems and features a high-expansion ratio cycle that raises efficiency and reduces friction.

In 2006, a Royal Lounge Alphard was introduced. It is a luxurious, four-seat version of the Alphard.

"BY-WIRE" TECHNOLOGY

The Alphard Hybrid uses "by-wire" technology that monitors brake pedal pressure and vehicle speed in order to calculate the optimum hydraulic pressure. By-wire works with the E-Four to maximize the collection of kinetic energy from braking for conversion into electric power.

The Alphard Hybrid Minivan can generate up to 1,500 watts and is equipped with standard 100-volt AC power outlets, allowing a wide range of appliances to be used, such as laptops and emergency lights. The electrical outlets can also be used to recharge items such as power-assisted bicycles and electric carts, adding a new dimension to leisure activities.

The Alphard Hybrid also offers some advanced safety features not seen on other hybrids. In fact, standard on the "G edition" and optional on standard grades are ( with a G-BOOK compatible DVD voice navigation system):

Mobil Mewah Ferrari 458

2011-05-11T02:47:00.000-07:00

After a few products - Ferrari 458 - burning and mentioned will withdraw it, on Thursday (2 / 9), Ferrari finally officially declare exciting 1248 model. The Italian supercar manufacturer claimed that amount is the amount of Ferarri 458 scatteredthroughout the world.
"Ferrari also said it would replace the glue on some parts. Because the adhesivematerial used in some parts (cars) can melt when exposed to temperatures too hotand may burn, "said detroitnews.com, Friday (3 / 9).
Previously, cars in Europe and America priced U.S. $ 253 thousand or approximatelyUSD 2.3 billion that had been burned a few units.
Page topspeed.com, Wednesday (1 / 9) calls until late August carrying 11 unitssedikiiktnya Ferrari 458 on fire. The car that burned was located in several countries, including France, Switzerland, China and California. Last fire occurred in CostaMesa, California, USA on 23 August.
Stefano Lai, a spokesman for Ferrari said it had asked the owner of the car to bringhis car to a Ferrari dealer to get repairs. He added that the repair or replacement thatis free of charge.

Mercedes-Benz Mobil Mewah

2011-05-11T02:12:00.000-07:00

At this time, I will discuss about the Mercedes-Benz Luxury Cars Best Indonesia who wasmuch talked about. Let us start.
Mercedes-Benz is one of the cars is very famous brand in the international automotiveworld. The car maker Mercedes-Benz brand is Daimler Chrysrler which is also the world's oldest automobile manufacturer. Because it has a lot of experience in the automotive world this is, which makes Mercedes-Benz brand cars one of which is able to provide assurance on the quality of its products.
Mercedes-Benz car itself started in 1880, the two men are friends of Gottileb Daimlerand Carl Benz who work together in marketing cars Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach's creation. Carl Benz in this case acts as a seller of products created by Daimler which atthat time has not been given a brand.
By Carl Benz and Maybach cars Daimler's creation is given the Mercedes brand.Mercedes name itself is taken from the name of one of Carl's daughter. From thatbeginning, Mercedes-Benz name that appeared in the 1900s.
Mercedes-Benz Luxury Cars Best Indonesia
Mercedes-Benz itself has many variants in its product. Starting from commercial vehiclesto private vehicles a memorable luxurious and exclusive, like a sedan with two seats.Mercedes-Benz also produces heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses. As personalvehicles, Mercedes-Benz sedan has several kinds of variants to the Multi Purpose Vanor MPV.

Kelebihan Mercedes-Benz
Sebagai produsen mobil tertua didunia, Mercedes-Benz sudah melekat di hati para pencintanya, khususnya para pencinta yang ada di Indonesia. Oleh karena itu sekarang banyak bermunculan komunitas Pencinta Mercedes-Benz baik penyuka jenis classic maupun yang sporty. Khusus di Indonesia sendiri, sekarang sudah berkembang komunitas Pencinta Mercedes-Benz yang tersebar di kota-kota besar di Indonesia. Hal ini timbul karena mereka percaya akan banyak kelebihan yang didapat bila mempunyai mobil ini. Beberapa kelebihan yang dimiliki oleh Mercedes-Benz diantaranya:
Mercedes-Benz mengutamakan kenyamanan bagi para pengendara dan penumpangnya. Sehingga para pengendara dan penumpangnya tidak merasa cepat lelah saat menempuh perjalanan yang cukup jauh.
Mercedes-Benz mengutamakan segi keamanan dan keselamatan dengan dibekali dengan beberapa fitur canggih yang menunjang keselamatan bagi para pengendaranya.
Mobil Mercedes-Benz mempunyai ruang interior yang lapang, sehingga para pengendara akan merasa betah berlama-lama didalam mobil.
Ketangguhan mesin yang sudah terbukti mampu bertahan lama dan tidak mudah rewel. Berbeda sekali dengan merek mobil lainnya.
Mercedes-Benz terkenal dengan kemudahan perawatannya. Cukup dengan pengecekan secara rutin, maka mobil mewah Anda akan menemani keseharian Anda.
Interior mobil Mercedes-Benz selalu memberikan kesan mewah dan elegance, sehingga akan menumbuhkan dan meningkatkan sifat percaya diri bagi pemiliknya.
Harga Mercedes-Benz yang cukup mahal akan menumbuhkan prestise dan gengsi bagi pemiliknya.
Demikian sekelumit tentang mobil Mercedes-Benz. Jika demikian tidak ada salahnya, saya dan Anda menobatkan Mercedes-Benz Mobil Mewah Terbaik Indonesia. Bagaimana dengan pendapat Anda. Silahkan berikan pendapat Anda dengan berkomentar dibawah ini.

Mercedes-Benz Mobil Mewah Terbaik Indonesia

2011-05-11T01:58:00.000-07:00

Kontes Seo – Mercedes-Benz Mobil Mewah Terbaik Indonesia

Selain Menjadi Mobil Mewah Terbaik Indonesia, Mercedes-Benz juga adalah perusahaan mobil tertua dan terbaik di dunia.

Kilas balik Mercedes-Benz Mobil Mewah Terbaik Indonesia

Pada 29 Januari 1886 Carl Benzuntuk pertama kali mengajukan paten di Berlin untuk kendaraan bermotor roda tiga yang diciptakannya dengan nama Benz Patent Motorwagen.
Dan pada saat yang hampir bersamaan Gottlieb Daimler juga membangun kendaraan bermotor empat roda pertama “motorised carriage”.

Benz Patent Motorwagen.
Mobil tiga roda bertenaga setengah tenaga kuda

Benz Patent Motorwagen. Mobil tiga roda bertenaga setengah tenaga kuda ini merupakan mobil pertama yang dipatenkan Carl Benz pada 29 Januari, 125 tahun silam.

Kendati pada awalnya kedua belah pihak membangun secara per-seorangan, namun itulah tonggak berdirinya Daimler AG, perusahaan yang secara global telah sukses menempatkan merek utamaMercedes-Benz sebagai batu fondasi untuk semua mobil-mobil penumpang, kendaraan komersial, dan bus-bus yang hadir di hari ini.

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento

2011-05-06T17:17:00.000-07:00

Seems Familiar and Futuristic

Despite an overt familiarity to its shape, the Sesto Elemento is nevertheless detached from the brand's current styling language. The wild details turn it into something you’d expect only in a video game, or in some crazy tuner's showroom, but not quite from Lamborghini, not after the brand has been working hard to overcome the styling clichés of its past. In fact, we hear there was a considerable amount of discussion within Lamborghini and at parent Audi about showing such an extreme concept car. In the end, the view prevailed that it wouldn't hurt to deviate a bit from the production models' somewhat aloof and architectonic proportions and design—traits that will apply to that Murciélago replacement, by the way.

One of the most striking features of the Sesto Elemento is that its entire body is constructed from visible, matte-finish carbon fiber (the so-called "sixth element” indicated by translating the concept’s name from Italian), as expensive a material as it is light. In fact, the curb weight of the entire car is claimed to be a mere 2200 pounds. That's 1100 fewer than our estimated curb weight for the supposedly “superlight”Gallardo Superleggera.

Wicked Quick

Combine the low weight with the V-10’s 570 hp at 8000 rpm—torque stands at 398 lb-ft at 6500 rpm—and performance should be explosive; Lamborghini says the car is capable of reaching 62 mph in 2.5 seconds. Top speed—only mentioned, says Lambo, "in the interests of completeness,” as top speed has been downgraded to the fourth-highest priority for its products—is said to be “well over 185 mph.” We suspect this modesty belies a terminal velocity north of 200 mph.

The use of carbon fiber extends beyond exterior panels: The passenger-holding monocoque, front subframe, crumple zones, and wheels are made of the material as well. The rear subframe, by contrast, is made of aluminum. Most anything else has simply been omitted. There is no dashtop—the underlying structure itself is laid bare—and the seat cushions are glued to the monocoque. One element we wish had been included is a clutch pedal. The Sesto Elemento is equipped with the e-gear six-speed automated manual transmission; power runs through it to Lambo’s all-wheel-drive system.

Foreshadows Future Lambos

If the sinister design won’t redefine Lamborghini styling, the Sesto Elemento is nevertheless significant as a rolling testament to the brand’s commitment to carbon fiber; all future Lambos will make extensive use of the stuff. AWD systems and heavy, ten- and twelve-cylinder engines take their toll on curb weights, and eliminating hundreds of pounds through the use of carbon fiber will give Lamborghini a potent weapon in the fight to create the most extreme supercars.

It's good politically for the brand within the VW Group, too. With its sales numbers taking a dive, Lamborghini needs another leg to stand on, and carbon-fiber expertise will for the first time make the raging bull a technology leader among VW’s brands. Lamborghini is working with the University of Washington in Seattle to develop its carbon-fiber tech, and aircraft maker Boeing is a partner in the university's Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory, too.

Yes, we were hoping to see the next Murciélago, but we’ll admit the Sesto Elemento is one hell of a substitute, and it further raises our expectations for the next production Lambo. This thing is so over the top, it’s almost too much—just as any proper Lamborghini should be.

Lamborghini Madura

2011-05-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

Anda pastinya tahu mobil sporty mewah dari Lamborghini yang merupakan salah satu perusahaan mobil utama Italia dan juga merupakan induk dari Grup Volkswagen. Perusahaan ini berbasis di Sant’Agata Bolognese, Bologna, Italia. Didirikan tahun 1963 oleh Ferruccio Lamborghini (1916-1993).(wikipedia)

Baru-baru ini Slavche Tanevsky, seorang mahasiswa di Universitas Munich Applied Sciences, membuat sebuah desain mobil Lamborghini dengan nama Madura. Kata Madura ini bukan lain adalah pulau di Indonesia yang memiliki budaya Karapan Sapi. Memang nama Lamborghini Madura ini diakarenakan terdapat jenis sapi atau banteng dari Madura yang kuat dan dapat berlari cepat yang digunakan untuk Karapan Sapi. Hal ini juga mirip dengan lambang Lamborghini yang berupa Banteng.

Lamborghini Madura ini memiliki desain ramping, lebih terfokus, dan lebih agresif. Pada bagian depan, terdapat lampu yang sangat ramping dan intake udara besar. Di bagian belakang terdapat desain garis-garis yang menambah kegarangan mobil ini.

“Madura adalah sebuah proposal untuk Lamborghini hibrida pertama dijadwalkan untuk 2016. Mobil ini lebih efisien dan ramah lingkungan, tidak berarti tidak boleh menarik, tampan dan cepat. (Tapi) menurut pendapat saya sistem propulsi baru ini harus terwakili pada mobil ini” kata Tanevsky.

CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

2011-05-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet Traverse 2009 test road

Chevrolet Traverse 2009 full views desktop wallpapers

Chevrolet Traverse 2009 side views desktop computer wallpapers

Daihatsu e:S (eco and smart), fuel efficiency of 30km per liter

2011-05-05T14:31:00.001-07:00

Daihatsu e:S (eco and smart), fuel efficiency of 30km per liter
New compact car line-up from Daihatsu is coming.
The car which is equipped with Idling Stop System results in an estimated fuel efficiency of 30km per liter, named Daihatsu e:S.
Daihatsu e:S is powered by a 660 cc engine and has a weight 700kd.
The e:S name stands for ‘eco and smart’.

New Honda MPV: New Step WGN

2011-05-05T14:30:00.001-07:00

New Honda MPV: New Step WGN
Honda has announced their new MPV called New Step WGN.
The come of New Step WGN proves that Oddysey will have company in the market.
The advantage of the new MPV is the baggage of New Step WGN located under the seater so that make comfort the passangers.
The engine of New Step WGN is 2000 cc i-VTEC with continuous variable valve timing (CVT) technology and 5 speeds matic transmission.
This car will offered in 2 different type which are , Step WGN Spada and Step WGN Spada Special.
New Step WGN scheduled to go on sale about October 9, 2009 in Japan with cost about 228 million rupiah.

Murcielago LP 670-4

2011-05-05T14:29:00.001-07:00

Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 Super Veloce and LP650-4 Roadster have been ascertained to come in Indonesia.
Actually the both types will come about May 2009, however, it’s not known it’s fail to come.
Murcielago LP 670-4 Super Veloce will be equipped with engine 6.5 liter V12 that can give off energy till 670 hps with maximum torsion as high as 487 lb-ft and accelerate till speed 341 km/hour and can run from position of rest till reach speed 100 km/hour in 3.2 second.
While the LP650-4 Roadster acceleration from 0-100 km/hour in 3,4 second.

Jaguar Neiman Marcus XJL Supercharged

2011-05-05T14:27:00.001-07:00

The sport premium car Jaguar Neiman Marcus XJL Supercharged has launched in UK.
The Neiman Marcus XJL Supercharged reported sold out just in 4 hours and 4 minutes after the launch.
The engine installed of the sport car is 6 speed automate and produce power up to 470hp with torsion 424 lb-ft.
However, the maximum speed has been set on this car, which is max speed 155 mph
The price of 2010 Neiman Marcus XJL Supercharged is $105,000 for exclusive type and $90,500 for standard type.

Ford Mondeo 161 PS Duratec To Malaysia

2011-05-05T14:26:00.001-07:00

Ford Mondeo 161 PS Duratec To Malaysia
New Ford car, Ford Mondeo, will come to Malaysia about November 2009.
The Mondeo Ford Malaysia will be equipped with engine with capacity 2.3 liter 161 PS Duratec and automatic 6 speed torsion conventer Durashift.
The Mondeo promises the more elegant design then Ford Focus.

Grand Livina 1.5 Manual 7 Seater MPV

2011-05-05T14:25:00.001-07:00

Grand Livina 1.5 Manual 7 Seater MPV
To meet the customer requirement, PT Nissan Motor Indonesia has released new economize Grand Livina called Grand Livina 1.5 Manual transmission.
The price of Grand Livina 1.5 Manual is about 164.5 million rupiah on the road in Jakarta.
The Livina 1.5 is equipped with rear wiper, tachometer and second row headrest that available in five different colors in which black sapphire, grey metallic, light green metallic, diamond silver metallic and orange metallic.
The engine of Nissan car is HR15DE and completed with CVTC (Continuously Variable-valve Timing Control) and drive-by-wire technology.

Honda Civic Type R

2011-05-05T14:24:00.001-07:00

Honda civic Type R Euro Japan 3 Doors 2010
Again, Honda brings the second car that was made in Europe to Japan.
The car is Honda Civic Type R Euro 3 Doors which produces in UK.
Previously Honda brought Honda Civic Type R 4 doors in year 2007.
The Civic powered by engine capacity 2.0 liter, DOHC and i-VTEC high compression.
The engine will produce power 148 kW (201) @7.800 rpm and maximum torsion 193Nm (19,7kg-m) @5,600rpm.

Nissan Fuga 2,500 cc VQ25HR &3,700 cc VQ37VHR

2011-05-05T14:23:00.001-07:00

Harga Nissan Fuga 2,500 cc VQ25HR &3,700 cc VQ37VHR
Nissan Fuga is a premium car that equipped by engine 2,500 cc for VQ25HR type and 3,700 cc type for VQ37VHR.
The price of Nissan Fuga is about US$ 44,676 to US$ 61,605.

Mazda2 1500cc Competitor Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz & Suzuki Swift, Same Engine With Ford Fiesta in Indonesia

2011-05-05T14:22:00.003-07:00

Mazda2 1500cc Competitor Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz & Suzuki Swift, Same Engine With Ford Fiesta in Indonesia
PT Mazda Motor Indonesia scheduled to launch Mazda2 1500 cc in Indonesia on November 25, 2009.
Mazda2 engine is similar to engine of Ford Fiesta which are 1,500 cc, 4-cylinder inline 16-valve DOHC, max power 103HP at 6,000 rpm and max torque 137 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
The Mazda2 will compete with Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz, Suzuki Swift and Hyundai i20.

New Daihatsu Luxio and Terios To Launch Desember 2009

2011-05-05T14:22:00.001-07:00

New Daihatsu Luxio and Terios To Launch Desember 2009
Daihatsu scheduled to launch their new Daihatsu Luxio and Terios on Desember 2009.
The confirmed source said that the new Luxio and Terios will have several changes compare with the previous.
So what the new Daihatsu Luxio and Terios look a like ? just wait then..

Avanza Matic 1,300 G cc Price and Feature

2011-05-05T14:21:00.001-07:00

Avanza Matic 1,300 G cc Price and Feature
Product name: Toyota Avanza Matic 1,300 cc G
Priced: about 157 million rupiah
Feature and specification:

Automatic transmission, 4.120 m length, width 1.635 m, 1.695 m high, distance axis 2655 m, adopts grille with traction and a half oval, 2 DIN Audio System, Car Clock, ticket holder, Glove Box, Driver Storage, Combination Mater, Bottle Box.

Peugeot 207 Facelift, Frank Hatchback To Come In Indonesia

2011-05-05T14:19:00.003-07:00

PT Astra International Peugeot the authorized dealer of Peugeot car in Indonesia make sure that Peugeot 207 Facelift is going to launch in Indonesia.

The Frank Hatchback, the first time shows at the public was on Frankfurt Auto Show in the middle of 2009 ago.
There are no significant changes in the 207 Facelift, however this car has already own USB and Bluetooth.

Peugeot 5008 and 3008 To Come in Indonesia in 2010

2011-05-05T14:19:00.001-07:00

Peugeot 5008 and 3008 To Come in Indonesia in 2010
It is different with Peugeot 207 that to launch this year, PT Astra International Peugeot sets to launch Peugeot 5008 and 3008 in Indonesia in the year of 2010.
Peugeot 5008 and 3008 will be launched in the same time.
Peugeot 5008 is MPV with Europe style that look as premium car.
While Peugeot 3008 is crossover car that is a combine style of MPV (Multipurpose Vehicle) dan SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle).

Lexus GX 460 2010, LUV 7 Seaters

2011-05-05T14:18:00.001-07:00

Lexus GX 460 2010, LUV 7 Seaters

Lexus have introduced new LUV (Luxuy Utility Vehicle) 7 seaters, GX 460.
LUV GX 460 equipped with Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), powered by engine 4.8L V8 and produce 301 HP with max torque 329 lb-ft.

HONDA FREED

2011-05-05T14:17:00.001-07:00

Penjualan Honda mobil selama 2010 mencapai 61.337 unit, melampaui target yang ditetapkan oleh PT Honda Prospect Motor (HPM) yaitu sebanyak 60.000 unit dan tercatat sebagai rekor tertinggi selama keberadaannya di Indonesia. Jumlah tersebut naik 55 persen dari tahun lalu 39.570 unit. "Penjualan Honda selama 2010 sangat baik ditambah dengan peluncuran beberapa produk baru," ungkap Jonfis Fandy, Marketing & Aftersales Service Director PT HPM, dalam rilisnya yang diterima Kompas.com, Rabu (5/1/2011).

Menutup 2010, Honda meraih total penjualan 5.159 unit dengan produk andalannya Jazz penyumbang terbanyak, yaitu 2.177 unit, naik 3,9 persen dari bulan sebelumnya (2.096 unit). Kontribusi terbesar kedua tetap dari SUV CR-V dengan 1.406 unit, tetapi tidak disebutkan kenaikannya.

Sementara prestasi hebat ditunjukkan oleh New Honda Freed yang pada Juli lalu mengalami facelift terjual 1.333 unit dan total selama 2010 mencapai 13.500 unit, hampir mendekati CR-V yang terniaga 16.961 unit. Teratas masih dipegang oleh Jazz dengan 22.758 unit.

Bagaimana dengan sedan dan MPV? All New Odyssey yang baru diluncurkan pada Mei 2010 mampu melampaui target 250 unit dengan pencapaian total 444 unit meski Desember lalu terjual 13 unit saja.

Di kelompok sedan, All New City paling tinggi penjualan di Desember dengan 123 unit, diikuti Civic 85 unit, dan Accord 22 unit. Sementara ekspor dengan negara tujuan Thailand dan Malaysia untuk Freed mencapai 3.900 unit.

Dari hasil yang diraih selama 2010, Jonfis menilai kalau produk andalannya Jazz dan yang lainnya, seperti Accord, Civic, dan City, tetap diminati oleh konsumen meskipun belum mengalami perubahan model.

KIA Cadenza a.k.a KIA K7 To Replace KIA Amanti

2011-05-05T14:15:00.001-07:00

KIA Cadenza a.k.a KIA K7 To Replace KIA Amanti
KIA set to launch of their new sedan in Riyadh Motor Show 2009 this December.
The Sedan that predicted to replace Amanti, in Korea named K7 has name KIA Cadenza.
The Cadenza set also to sell in ASEAN, Middle East, China and America Latin.
The price of K7 predicted will under Amanti price about under USD26,000.

Kia Kee To Battle with Mazda MX-5 and Toyota FT-86

2011-05-05T14:14:00.001-07:00

Kia Kee To Battle with Mazda MX-5 and Toyota FT-86
Beside K7 Cadenza, KIA is also set to launch a sport car, KIA Kee.
In the sport class, the Kee is going to battle with Mazda MX-5 and Toyota FT-86.
The two doors car sport owns platform same as Hyundai Genesis Coupe and will have 4 cylinder machine.

Mercedes-Benz Viano To launch in Indonesia

2011-05-05T14:13:00.001-07:00

Mercedes-Benz Viano To launch in Indonesia
PT Mercedes-Benz Indonesia (MBI) is announcing the readiness to launch its MPV luxury in Indonesia. The car is Viano.
The Viano sets to launch about February 2010 and about 20 Viano CBU units has been prepared.
The price of Mercedes-Benz Viano predicted would be about 1.1 – 1.2 billion rupiah.
Viano must tight battle with the existing MPV luxury such as Honda Elenor, Nissan Elgran, Toyota Alphard and Hyundai H-1.

TOYOTA FT

2011-05-05T14:11:00.001-07:00

Toyota FT-86G Sports
Throughout 2010 and then even before a number of car manufacturers has launched a brand-new car concept that will be their production and marketed in 2011. A number of advanced features, attractive design, and a variety of engine options they offer.

Only, amid the increasing competition of course, not all cars will occupy the topposition in sales. As a result, not least among producers that are delaying the launchas one of the few marketing strategies that executable.

So who will launch the car manufacturer in 2011 this car? What car expected to hit theworld automotive market?

Here are 10 cars featured will be a mainstay throughout 2011 based on recordscollected by the page Autoguide.com, Saturday (1 / 1):

New Mazda Carol Launched in Japan

2011-05-05T14:10:00.001-07:00

New Mazda Carol Launched in Japan

Mazda just launched the new Mazda Carol in Japan recently.
Carol brings super ultra-low emission vehicles (SU-LEV) concept and maybe the design suites for woman car.
New Mazda Carol available in both manual and automatic transmission and the price of this car is between 899,850 and 1,167,600 yen.

Nissan Qazana Test in Sweden

2011-05-05T14:09:00.001-07:00

Nissan Qazana Test in Sweden
The compac crossover Nissan Qazana, reported has performed a test series in Sweden.
First time Nissan Qazana introduced was about March 2009 ago and confirmed to be produced in Sunderland UK.
This car also confirmed to perform its first debut on March 2010.

Lexus LS600h, Premium Hybrid Car To Launch in Indonesia

2011-05-05T14:08:00.001-07:00

Lexus LS600h, Premium Hybrid Car To Launch in Indonesia
Toyota confirmed to launch the new premium hybrid car about the beginning 2010, Lexus LS600h, in Indonesia.
The existence of Lexus LS600h marked as the second hybrid beside Prius in Indonesia.
Lexus LS600h powered by engine capacity 5.0 V8 and electric motor with max powere 430 hp.
The price of Lexus LS600h would be about between 2.7-3 billion rupiah.

BMW X6 M Launched in India, Indonesia Soon

2011-05-05T14:07:00.001-07:00

BMW X6 M Launched in India, Indonesia Soon

Delhi Auto Expo 2010 is a place spotted by BMW to launch the BMW X6 M in India.
SUV BMW that powered by engine 4,400 cc V8 twin-turbocharged owns max torque 680nm, will be launched in Indonesia too.

Honda CR-Z

2011-05-05T14:06:00.001-07:00

Honda CR-Z Coupe Hybrid Leak, To Launch in Japan, Europe and North America
The mass production version of Honda CR-Z has leaked in public.
The specification of CR-Z Hybrid would powered with engine 1.5 liter and electric motor, produce 113 hp on 6,000 rpm, and torque 145nm on 4,800 rpm.
While the electric motor would produce power 13.4 hp on 1,500 rpm, and maximum torque 78 Nm on 1,000 rpm.
Honda CR-Z planed to launch in Japan about February 2010.

Chevrolet New Sail Price Only 84.4 million Rupiah

2011-05-05T14:05:00.001-07:00

Chevrolet New Sail Price Only 84.4 million Rupiah

Chevrolet offers its New Sail in fantastic price in China about 84.4 million Rupiah.
Chevrolet New Sail is a compact car powered by S-TEC II 1.2 liter engine with fuel consumption 17.5 km per 1 liter gasolin.
The power produced by the New Sail is 85 PS and acceleration from 0–100 km/hours in 12.9 seconds.
In additional, Chevrolet New Sail also provides 1.4 liter of engine capacity.

Proton Neo, Gen2, New Exora To Come in Indonesia in this 2010

2011-05-05T14:04:00.001-07:00

Proton Neo, Gen2, New Exora To Come in Indonesia in this 2010
After the success of the Proton Exora, the Malaysian car maker, Proton, sets to bring Proton Neo and Proton Gen2 in Indonesia.
Beside that, Proton will also be present the New Proton Exora to accompany the real two new cars in Indonesia.
Proton Neo shaped hatchback two doors that designed cooperation between Proton and Lotus and produce attractive cars and sporty.
Behind the hood, there are 1600 machines CamPro CCl 4-cylinder, which can produce terrible awesome power and torque results which improve the performance of RPM. Proton Neo can be sped up 195km/hours.
Proton Neo is also equipped with comfort and safety features like front light stylish, sporty gearstick cover, side door pockets, SRS Air Bag, fashionable fuel cap, reverse sensors, stylish rims, electric side mirrors, and gadget charger for mobile.
While Proton Gen2 four-door hatchback form, which adopted the 1600 cc engine CamPro L 4-cylinder, which has been designed that can be terrible exertion.
Not known exactly when these cars will be brought to Indonesia by PT Indonesia circulation Proton (PEI), but confirmed that these cars will be marketed this year 2010.

Daihatsu Terios TS Matic And Toyota Rush G A/T Matic Launch

2011-05-05T14:03:00.001-07:00

Daihatsu Terios TS Matic And Toyota Rush G A/T Matic Launch

Daihatsu and Toyota are going to launch the automatic transmission type of Terios TS and Rush G A/T.
The launching day is different between Terios TS Matic and Rush G A/T, Terios TS Matick will be launched on January 18, 2010 while Toyota Rush G A/T will be launched on January 19, 2010.

Subaru Outback Crossover 2.5i and 3.6R

2011-05-05T14:02:00.001-07:00

2010 Subaru Outback Crossover 2.5i and 3.6R
New Crossover from Subaru sets to launch about April 2010.
The company of Forester name is 2010 Subaru Outback which available in two engine type, 2.5i and 3.6R.
Here are the specifications of Subaru Outback:

Car type: front-engine, 4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 5-door wagon
Enginge type: SOHC 16-valve flat-4 / DOHC 24-valve flat-6, fuel injection
Capacity: 2.457 cc / 3.630cc
Max power: 170 hp at 5.600 rpm / 256 hp at 6.000 rpm
Max torque: 170 lb-ft at 4.000 rpm / 247 lb-ft at 4400 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic/ 6-speed manual
Wheelbase: 107.9 inch
Length: 188.2 inch
Weight: 71.7 inch
High: 65.7 inch
Acceleration: 0-100 km per hour in 7.2 -8.2 seconds

New KIA Picanto EX Facelift Indonesia

2011-05-05T14:01:00.001-07:00

New KIA Picanto EX Facelift Indonesia

KIA also will to launch a mini car in Indonesia.
The KIA trusty weapon would be New KIA Picanto EX Facelift.
There is no much different between the old Picanto and new Picanto.
The New KIA Picanto EX would be launched on January, 27 2010 with price about 115 million rupiah.

Grand Livina 1.5 Ultimate Automatic Transmission

2011-05-05T14:00:00.001-07:00

Grand Livina 1.5 Ultimate Automatic Transmission

Nissan Motor Indonesia presents new Grand Livina 1.5 Ultimate Automatic Transmission.
Grand Livina 1.5 Ultimate already available in Nissan dealer since January, 15 2010.
The price of Grand Livina 1.5 Ultimate is about 199 million rupiah On The Road Jakarta.
While the New Grand Livina 1.5 manual transmission has been released about November 2009 ago.

Mazda6 a.k.a Atenza Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SU-LEV)

2011-05-05T13:59:00.001-07:00

Mazda6 a.k.a Atenza Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SU-LEV)
Mazda6 a.k.a Mazda Atenza claimed as Super-Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SU-LEV) due to this car 75% lower than the determined by the Japan government.
In Japan Mazda6 is available in 2 different engines which are 2.0 liter and 2.5 liter with cost between 2,100,000 yen and 2,750,000 yen.
While in Indonesia the Atenza will cost about 485 million rupiah for automatic transmission type.

KIA Picanto 2012

2011-05-05T13:58:00.001-07:00

Foto KIA Picanto 2012 telah beredar di dunia otomotif luar negeri. Tampilan barunya jelas lebih menarik dan sporty dibandingkan dengan modelnya saat ini. Dengan fascia yang lebih agresif mencakup headlamp

Fiat 500C Cabriolet After Japan, The Next is Europe

2011-05-05T13:57:00.001-07:00

Fiat 500C Cabriolet After Japan, The Next is Europe

Fiat 500C Cabriolet 2010, after launched in Japan, Fiat set to launch in Europe.
Fiat 500C Cabriolet scheduled to go on sale in Europe is about starting April 14, 2004.
The city car that provide in manual 5-speeds and 6-speed automatic transmission will available in 4 engine versions and meet Euro 5 standard, which are1.2 liter 69 hp, 1.4 liter 16 valves 100 hp, 1.3 liter Multijet 75 hp, and 1.3 liter Multijet II 95hp.
Special for gasoline engine type, Fiat 500C would provides Dualogic 5-speed gearbox robotized.
The price of Fiat 500C Cabriolet is about 18,000 Euro.

Audi R8 V10

2011-05-05T13:55:00.001-07:00

PT Garuda Mataram Motor (GMM) confirmed to bring Audi R8 V10 2010 in Indonesia.
The World Performance Car of The Year 2010 powered by engine 5.2 liter and generate power 532 PS and torque 530 Nm.
GMM set to introduce Audi R8 V10 at IIMS 2010 about July 23 – August 1, 2010.
The price projection of Audi R8 V10 in Indonesia is about 1.3 billion rupiah.

Honda Air Concept

2011-05-05T13:53:00.001-07:00

Presented by Honda at the 2010 LA Design Challenge, the Honda Air Concept is a lightweight open four-seater with a compressed-air powertrain and an essential design inspired by modern roller coasters.

Created for the 2010 LA Design Challenge by the Honda Advanced Design Studio in Pasadena, CA, the Air concept is defined as "a vision of the future of lightweight and alternative fuel performance vehicles". Inspired by modern roller coasters and skydiving wing-suits, the Air is powered by a compressed air and pneumatic regulator system and has a total weight of 800 lb.
It utilizes turbo vacuums and external air-flow to regenerate tank pressure for extended range and increa

Kia Sportage

2011-05-05T13:49:00.001-07:00

This is the third generation Sportage, a ground-up new design that was previewed in theme by the 2007 Kia Kue concept - one of the first Kia designs to have emerged since the appointment of Peter Schreyer as Kia Design Director in July 2006. Like the concept, the production design has a clean and simple design language, the antithesis to the 'fluidic-sculpture' of cars from sister brand Hyundai as well as being an aesthetic that might have been expected from Schreyer.
Relative to its predecessor, the Sportage is significantly longer, wider and lower - proportional changes that mean that this latest design will compete directly with European market-orientated lower medium SUV-crossovers such as the Nissan Qashqai. Just like the new form language, this subtle but significant shift in proportions and thus class of car, i

Hispano Suiza

2011-05-05T13:48:00.001-07:00

In recent years the Geneva show has seen several attempts to revive great automotive names of the past - last year's Frazer-Nash by Guigiaro comes to mind, and this year sees the return of Hispano-Suiza - a legendary name from the 10s and 20s, but a name we've seen in Geneva as recently as 2004, with the HS21. Or does it? Developed by former Volkswagen designer Erwin Leo Himmel, the team behind the car are in fact keen to point out that this car and name bears no relation to Hispano-Suiza's of the past (a name owned by a French aerospace group), a point emphatically emphasized by the new, non-hyphenated name plate.
Essentially a rebodied Audi R8, the Hispano Suiza is a clearly aimed at people who look at the V10 version of Audi's supercar and think it's underpowered. The mid-mounted V10 therefore has ha

Proton Emas Hybrid concept by Giugiaro

2011-05-05T13:47:00.001-07:00

Proton and Giugiaro jointly revealed the concept version for a new city car that will become the Malaysian national car-maker's first hybrid model at the Geneva motor show this week. Three models were displayed, two hard-milled models and a single 5D prototype with full interior, although promotional material also showed a shorter Toyota iQ-like Emas 3 model was being developed too.
Points to note on the exterior include the neat DLO graphic with a 'tooth' on the C-Pillar, tail lamps sitting within the smoked glass tailgate, as on the VW Up! concept and a monographic front grille and headlamps incorporating 12 LEDs. The orange SUV/crossover version dubbed 'Country' seems more successful, not least for the bolder graphics on the car, including radial ribs on the dark wheelarches and a skeletal roof rail with ae

Mazda MX-0 Concept

2011-05-05T13:46:00.001-07:00

Mazda's entry for the 2010 LA Design Challenge is the MX-0 (Zero) Concept, a two-seater futuristic sportscar focused on extreme weight savings, achieved through the use of new materials and fewer integrated parts.
Conceived by Mazda Design Americas as a virtual successor of the MX-5 Miata, the MX-0 is a futuristic evolution of the roadster which brings to the extremes the "lightweight" design approach.
The car is the result of a systematic process of reduction and consolidation of components, combined with the adoption of new advanced materials like sustainable, inexpensive composites. The powertrain features electric motors. "Aimed at the global market of 2020, and with p

Chevrolet Montana

2011-05-05T13:45:00.001-07:00

Two years ago, GM Brazil unveiled the Chevrolet GPiX concept, designed locally under the direction of Carlos Barba. The concept defined the DNA of the Viva family, formed by the Agile, which has been sold in Latin America since 2009.
Now, General Motors is launching a new small size pickup truck called the Montana at the 2010 Sao Paulo Auto Show. The pickup will battle in a niche market that is not strictly focused on utility, but also caters to users that want a leisure vehicle. Indeed, this versatility has already inspired, initially, the Strada Adventure - produced by rival market-leader Fiat - and more recently the Peugeot Hoggar.

Mazda Shinari Concept Previews Next-Gen Mazda 6 - Car News

2011-05-05T13:44:00.001-07:00

The Mazda Shinari concept gives us a clear idea as to what the next Mazda 6 will look like. The first vehicle wearing a new Mazda design language dubbed Kodo ("Soul of Motion"), the Shinari concept is a gorgeous, if slightly overblown, four-seat coupe that looks like the lovechild of a Maserati GranTurismo and a Jaguar XF. The cab-rearward proportions; swoopy lines; and giant, 21-inch wheels give the impression that Mazda might be going after the likes of Mercedes, BMW, and Audi.
New chief designer Ikuo Maeda told us that the intention behind his first concept was "to build the car I want to buy and drive." It's his move away from the flowing, nature-inspired Nagare design theme, a softer ethos that resulted i

Mazda5

2011-05-05T13:43:00.003-07:00

Proclaimed as the first-ever application of the 'Nagare Flow' design language in a Mazda production car, we unfortunately expect the new Mazda5 to be the final one too, now that former design chief Laurens van den Acker has departed to Renault.
Nevertheless, the composition of the flow lines is very elegantly resolved when studied in detail. There's a rising feature line under the door handles, below which are two flow lines that lead your eye towards the black guide rail slot for the vast sliding rear doors. The uppermost line indexes neatly as an extension of the flowing front fender line, which itself flows outwards and upwards from the front grille. The arrangement is completed with a complimentary lower bodyside flow line. As a styling device it is somewhat whimsical, but it gives the car a uniquely ele

Mitsubishi ASX

2011-05-05T13:43:00.001-07:00

Mitsubishi joins the compact crossover party currently dominated by the Nissan Qashqai in late June 2010 with its ASX model, in a move that will lessen the brand's traditional reliance on large 4x4s and pickup trucks and their associated weaker economy and emissions. Indeed, although the five-seater ASX will be offered in all-wheel drive, the majority of its sales are expected to be two-wheel drive - just like the Qashqai.
The exterior of the production model stays pretty faithful to the cX concept of 2007 with the now signature Mitsubishi deep gaping front grille pioneered on the Lancer Evo. The side profile also keeps the single pronounced feature line from the concept that starts from behind the front fender with a deep undercut before curving slightly upwards through both door handles and reducing in intens

Renault Megane CC

2011-05-05T13:42:00.001-07:00

The sixth member of the third generation Renault Megane family - the Coupe Cabriolet - was unveiled at Geneva 2010 and completes the range. It's only the second Megane hardtop CC though, as the first-generation model only offered a cloth-top convertible.
The designers behind the new CC have kept the previous generation's innovative glass folding roof but softened all the exterior lines - which is a good thing. The older CC, lacking the unusually 'stepped' rear visual interest of its 'ass shaking' hatch sibling, was very boxy, due in part to the constraints that folding hardtops can often dictate around the back of the car.
Conversely, while the old Megane CC lacked a little of its hatch's coherent design, the new CC is an improvement on the somewhat dull third-generation hatchback

I.DE.A Sofia concept

2011-05-05T13:41:00.001-07:00

Turin-based IDEA Institute presented its Sofia showcar at the Geneva show, showcasing a new design direction for a hybrid-powered four-seat sedan. Shown as an exterior only model, the Sofia is a streamlined study with a sculptured hood, fenders that rise above the beltline and a dynamic shoulder leading to a pronounced rear diffuser.
At the front, a gaping grille leads to slender twin LED strips to give the car a strong, immediately identifiable DRG, slightly reminiscent to that of a current Aston Martin. The outer concave areas of the hood lead off below the A-pillar to become the shoulderline of the car, which continues to widen until it reaches the C-pillar, where it rises to disappear into the DLO. It is this intersection that appears particularly contrived, as the shoulder becomes convex and seemingly pinched

Seat IBE concept

2011-05-05T13:39:00.001-07:00

It surprised many to see this concept on the Seat stand. A white exterior model only, it was missed by many designers at the show - its limelight stolen by the VW stand next door and Audi's A1. The overall impression did little to counter a suspicion that Seat is sometimes the VW group's forgotten marque, and that its positioning in the overall brand hierarchy is somewhat unclear.
However, the design is not to be dismissed, because on closer inspection the IBE is well resolved, and previews design boss Luc Donckerwolke's new language for the Spanish brand. Essentially a B-sector hatch, it is shorter, wider and lower than the Ibiza, endowing it with a strong set of proportions - the wheel at each corner, gently flared wheelarches and sharply defined rear shoulder giving the car a strong stance and plant

Audi designs the sound of the e-tron

2011-05-05T13:38:00.001-07:00

Audi is working on the acoustics of its future electric models. The sounds currently under development take inspiration from sci-fi movies and from the Audi RSQ Concept featured in "I, Robot".
Audi e-tron Concept Sound DesignWith the development of mass-produced electric vehicles, a new technical issue has recently arisen: electric cars are virtually silent up to 25 km/h and this carries risks on the streets.
A number of carmakers believe that a good solution would be the creation of an artificial sound.
Audi has recently released an official document that explains some details of this particular design process.
At the moment the company is testing new sounds which are based on the basic waveforms of internal combustion engines, but also include new sound components that could contribute to the car image.

New sudi Auto Show

2011-05-05T13:37:00.001-07:00

The new Audi Optima making its debut in New York is undoubtedly the star of the show. Pushing Kia's new design initiatives forward, the new sedan is a clear departure from the previous generation, continuing the design language first seen on the Soul and since evolved into the recently revealed Sportage. But while the Sportage's exterior was designed in Kia's California design studio and the interior was created in the automaker's European studio, the reverse is true for the Optima.Longer, lower, wider and with a longer wheelbase than the model it will soon replace, the exterior design of the new car is a lesson in cautious elegance. At the front, an amplified version of the Korean automaker's defining grille - larger than on any other model in the Kia range - is outlined in chrome and features

Scion tC

2011-05-05T13:36:00.001-07:00

Scion, Toyota's youth brand in the North American market, revealed the redesigned tC coupe at the New York Auto Show. The second generation tC sports a cleaner, more masculine look, heavily influenced by the Calty-designed Fuse concept unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show.
Launched in 2004, the tC is Scion's sportiest vehicle, and it will now riding on a new platform. The new car is 41mm wider than the outgoing model but retains the same overall footprint, wheelbase and the wheels-at-each-corner stance. The proportions are better judged though, so that it appears lower and has a slightly more aggressive demeanor. At the front, the grille is narrower and the headlamps sleeker, with 3D covers bulging out from the surrounding surface.

Umea University students complete Saab collaboration project

2011-05-05T13:34:00.001-07:00

A selection of first-year students from Sweden's Umea University have completed a 10-week collaborative design project with Saab. Tasked with exploring new directions for the brand, students were encouraged to investigate the interplay of brand and identity. Each of them was assigned a non-automotive brand to reflect on parallels that could be established between that brand and Saab, whilst also capturing the essence of the Swedish carmaker through their project's concept, its proportions, surface language, details, graphics, functionality and material choices. Aeronautic heritage was extensively expoilted by the students The Nespresso concept's unusual storage solutions and interchangeable 'flavors' are direct brand crossovers The Gillette-inspired project was designed specifically for the Chinese mar

Audi e-tron Spyder

2011-05-05T13:33:00.001-07:00

Where the quattro Concept caused a certain amount of consternation for its brutal graphics and overt retro-ness, the e-tron Spyder draws subtle nods of appreciation - surely a more appropriate reaction to an Audi.
Rather against the expectation offered up by the potential of a compact mid-engined sports car, the e-tron Spyder (or R4 as many now refer to it) is a car that takes some time and exploration to appreciate - a refreshing change from the in-your-face obviousness served up by many. The e-tron Spyder has a beguiling subtlety that reveals itself in layers the closer you get.
Lead exterior designer, Wolfram Luchner, has created an incredibly technical-looking car that harks back to the reassuringly detail-obsessive Audi of a decade ago, yet its form language is also perfectly aligned with the technology-ri

Audi A7 Sportback

2011-05-05T13:32:00.001-07:00

Audi's latest example of micro-nicheing made its motor show debut here in Paris. Outside, it's striking how low this car appears to sit (although, at 1420mm high it's taller than the A5 Sportback by 29 mm), an impression aided by the graceful arc of the beltline front to rear and its low-set intersection with the trailing edge of the trunk. One is drawn to the superb surface transition from fender to C-pillar, the helical detailing within the tail lamps and surface intersections radiused so tightly that they could almost be lead-filled and hand-finished. The stance of the vehicle is without reproach, appearing muscular and exceedingly elegant.
From the front we again had to play a game of guess-the-Audi, but the designers have shown as much restraint as is possible with their aggressive house DRG style.

Mercedes-Benz confirms CLS Shooting Brake production

2011-05-05T13:31:00.001-07:00

Mercedes-Benz has officially confirmed that the CLS Shooting Brake, previewed by the Shooting Break Concept at Auto China 2010, will be produced starting from 2012.
Mercedes-Benz Shooting Brake ConceptAs Mercedes-Benz executives reported, the company's intent is to repeat the success of another high emotional appeal vehicle: the CLS presented in 2004, which created a new segment and quickly became a design reference.
The design is based on the homonymous concept presented at Auto China in April 2010 and will be launched in 2012.
The CLS Shooting Brake is characterized by coupé-like proportions, with a long hood, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, and dynamic roof sloping back towards the rear; all combined with four doors and a large rear lid.
The new model will be built at the Mercedes-Benz Plant Sindelfingen, which

Toyota NORI Concept

2011-05-05T13:30:00.001-07:00

Created by Toyota's Calty Design Research for the 2010 LA Design Challenge, the NORI Concept is a futuristic four-seater with a body and chassis integrated into a single lightweight component made of carbon fiber and seaweed.
Toyota NORI Podular StructurePresented at this year's Design Challenge at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Toyota NORI Concept features a structure called Podular form which integrates both the body and the chassis.
The component allows for weight optimization and reduction of number of parts. It is made of a bioplastic material that combines "nori" (the Japanese word for seaweed) combined with a carbon fiber weave.
The concept is powered by four electric wheel motors coupled with a removable battery pack. Woven into the PODULAR form are solar cells that capture and generate supplemental solar energy.

BMW previews hybrid sportscar

2011-05-05T13:28:00.003-07:00

BMW has announced that it will produce a 2+2 sportscar powered by an innovative plug-in hybrid system and based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept car presented at Frankfurt in 2009.
At the Leipzig trade fair centre BMW is presenting a road-ready technology showcase vehicle based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept.
The ActiveHybrid powertrain features a 3-cylinder turbo diesel engine coupled with a hybrid synchronous motor at the front axle and a full-hybrid engine at the rear axle, for a total output of 241 kW/328 bhp.
The main performances are a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds, average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 3.76 l/100 kilometers and a CO2 emission rating of 99 g/km.

Volvo Air Motion Concept

2011-05-05T13:28:00.001-07:00

Presented at the 2010 LA Design Challenge, the Volvo Air Motion Concept is a two-seater open sportscar targeted to driving enthusiasts, with a carbon fiber body and a powertrain with compressed-air motors.
Volvo Air Motion ConceptFor the "1,000 lb car" brief of the 2010 LA Design Challenge, California-based Volvo Monitoring and Concept Center (VMCC) has presented the Air Motion Canyon Carver, a design study of a futuristic open sportscar running on compressed air.
The carbon fiber body takes inspiration from Scandinavian design heritage and is "sculptured like a clam shell."
Aimed at minimizing weight and complexity, while maximizing driving enjoyment, the concept is powered by simple compressed air motors. These motors cool down under load rather than heat up, thus removing the need for heavy cooling systems.

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento confirmed for production (unofficial)

2011-05-05T13:27:00.001-07:00

French AutoMoto.fr has revealed that Lamborghini has given the green light to a limited series production of the Sesto Elemento concept, presented at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The estimated price is 2.5 million Euros.
According to the source, the carmaker will build the Sesto Elemento in a limited run of up to 10 cars.
Presented as a show car at the last Paris Show, the Sesto Elemento (Sixth Element in Italian) is powered by a 5.2 liter V10 engine with 570hp and thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber has a total weight of just 999 kg.
The extreme performances include a 0-100 km/h time of 2.5 seconds.

Renault Sandero Stepway Concept

2011-05-05T13:25:00.001-07:00

At the Sao Paulo Motor Show Renault Brazil ha unveiled the Sandero Stepway Concept, a show car produced by Renault Design America Latina and based on the Dacia Sandero model. Among the features is the three-tone paint scheme.
Renault Sandero Stepway ConceptBased on Renault/Dacia Sandero Stepway (35,000 cars sold since 2008), the Sandero Stepway Concept features some special materials & colours.
These include the gloss black titanium hood, tailgate & roof, which make a strong contrast with the matt copper color of the doors.
The bumpers & body lower parts are platinum finished while the cabin features a blend of anodised aluminium & satin-finish titanium.
Additional details of this style study are the distinctive blueish LED headlamps and the flower-themed graphics.

Toyota Prius C&A Custom Concept

2011-05-05T13:24:00.001-07:00

The Prius C&A Custom Concept vehicle was developed by the Conversions and Accessories group at Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan.
Toyota Prius C&A Custom Concept Toyota Prius C&A Custom Concept
Exterior areas equipped with carbon fiber include aero side skirts with vertical spoilers, front bumper and fender flares with radically large air intakes, the engine hood, roof, rear hatch, rear spoiler, rear bumper with vertical spoiler, and rear garnish.
Other exterior features include an outside mirror CCD camera system, smoked rear combination lamp with a translucent rear side spoiler, styled exhaust tip and front and rear lighted Toyota badging.

Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package

2011-05-05T13:23:00.001-07:00

The Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package is a new hybrid performance line by Toyota Racing Development (TRD).It offers accessories that add sporty look and performance handling. Toyota Prius PLUS Performance Package These include a seven-piece aerodynamic body kit with a uniquely styled rear diffuser and race-inspired 17-inch forged wheels. The PLUS package deliversimproved handling without sacrificing any fuel efficiency. The package also includes exclusive floormats with a "PLUS" logo and a unique "PLUS" exterior badge.
The new PLUS brand of accessories from Toyota will be available in limited production beginning in April 2011.

Toyota 4Runner

2011-05-05T13:22:00.001-07:00

Four Wheeler Magazine's Project Toyota 4Runner Backcountry is a special version focused on exploration. The 4Runner was lifted approximately 2.5-inches, using Old Manu Emu (OME) suspension system with heavy-duty springs and special shock absorbers.
The P285/70R17 Falken WildPeak A/T tires are mounted to 17×8 Teflon-coated ATX Mojave wheels.
The factory rear locker is complimented with an ARB front Air Locker and a Warn XD9000 winch mounted to an ARB Deluxe Bull Bar front bumper. Also mounted to the front bumper are two 6×9 KC HiLiTES HID driving lights. The interior featuresa Cobra CB radio for trail communications and a dash-mounted Garmin GPS as a primary navigational aid. The rear cargo area includes a Power Tank on-board air system

2010 New Peugeot 408 To Launch in China, Latin America Next

2011-05-05T13:21:00.001-07:00

2010 New Peugeot 408 To Launch in China, Latin America Next
New 2010 Peugeot 408 informed would be launched in China before Latin America.
The Peugeot 408 will come in two different engines type which are 1.6 liter and 2.0 liter.
The 1.6 liter 16V engine to produce power 110 hp at 5,750 rpm with max torque 147 Nm on 4,000 rpm.
While the 2.0 liter engine to produce power up to 147 hp at max torque 200 Nm.