Mazda Motor Corporation has just released the new 2012 Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition for their customers in Japan. Mazda Demio is known in other countries as Mazda2. The 13C-V Smart Edition is based on the 13C-V model, which is designed with the aim to promote introduction of clean energy vehicles and is newly equipped with dark tinted glass in the rear door and rear gate. In addition, through the replacement of the existing automatic climate control with new manual air conditioning, its price was set to deliver more value for money. The base model of this Special Edition features: dark tinted glass (rear door glass and rear gate glass), manual air conditioning (changed from automatic climate control). There are also available nine body colors: Spirited Green Metallic, Metropolitan Gray Mica, Radiant Ebony Mica, True Red, Chrystal White Pearl Mica, Brilliant Black, Sunlight Silver Metallic, Aluminum Metallic and Burgundy Red Mica. The interior colors however are only two: Black and Light Gray.
The LC Super Hybrid Technology is conceived by Controlled Power Technologies (CPT) and the Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium (ALABC) with the only aim to show significant CO2 reduction through the means of electric hybridisation at low voltages (12-48 volts) using the latest lead-carbon batteries. The technology offers the potential of a mass market, petrol-powered, large family car with superb drivability, with spectacular performance and excellent 5.6 litres/100km (51mpg) fuel economy.
The LC Super Hybrid Technology is going to be showcased for the first time at the 2012 Geneva International Motor Show. The low voltage (12 volts) technology has been created by UK-based Controlled Power Technologies in colaboration with the US-based Advanced Lead-Acid Battery Consortium. The vehicle includes production-ready technology sold by CPT to Valeo. Other international companies involved are AVL Schrick based in Austria and Germany, Mubea also from Germany, and the UK-based Provector.
Volkswagen Passat 1.4-litre TSI model with LC Super Hybrid Technology
To be more precise, the technology is mounted on the series production 1.4-litre turbocharged VW Passat TSI model. Including the LC upgrade, the vehicle weighs around 1530kg which means that the technology adds the additional 79kg. Nevertheless, much of this additional mass including the test equipment would be eliminated in a production vehicle as well as the existing starter motor. The additional payload further underscores the excellent performance and drivability of the LC Super Hybrid demonstrator. Going straight to the point, the technologies features an electric supercharger, next generation belt-integrated starter generator with an advanced belt tensioning system, carbon improved valve regulated lead–acid (VRLA) batteries which avoid the need for super-capacitors, and higher gear ratios to reduce engine speed. Thus, this results in increase of power from 122 PS (90 kW) to 142 PS (104 kW) and torque from 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) to 275Nm (203 kW). The effects can be compared to the Passat’s bigger 1.8-litre TSI gasoline engine, which delivers 160 PS (118 kW) and 250 Nm (185 lb-ft), and hence the engine output of the LC Super Hybrid Technology is generally equivalent to vehicles in the 2-litre class. Additional advantage is that the vehicle also achieves near diesel levels of fuel economy, but with substantially lower production costs. Furthermore, the LC Super Hybrid delivers CO2 emissions of less than 130g/km compared with 140g/km for the baseline Passat 1.4-litre TSI. This represents a reduction in CO2 emissions of 8 per cent. Another benefit is the great fuel economy of 5.6 litres/100km (51mpg), which is significant 11 per cent improvement when compared with 6.2 litres/100km (46mpg) for the 1.4-litre TSI. Moreover, the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time is reduced by 2.5 seconds from 11.1 to 8.7 seconds compared with the 1.4-litre TSI. In addition, the demonstrator embraces low voltage switched reluctance (SR) motor-generators, which are not currently used by the automotive industry in mass production. The motors are constructed from steel, aluminium and copper and avoid the use of increasingly expensive rare earth materials. The SR technology is licensed from Nidec Corporation of Japan, one of the world’s leading suppliers of electric motors.
LC Super Hybrid Technology
Furthermore, the improved lead-carbon battery design allows for an excellent charge and discharge characteristic, while the carbon-enhanced negative plate formulations enhance life under hybrid vehicle duty cycles. Additional improvements in the battery are achieved by careful attention to battery management and they also retain the long established end-of-life re-cycling benefits of lead-acid batteries. At 48 volts the low voltage LC Super Hybrid is expected to deliver more than the nominal 25 per cent improvement in CO2 emissions and fuel economy already achieved when compared with typical 2-litre naturally aspirated vehicles. In addition, the demonstrator develops low carbon ELC concept by incorporating CPT’s next generation SpeedStart stop-start system. The latter features intelligent torque and current control with enhanced stop-start capabilities. Moreover, it is world’s most powerful belt-integrated starter generator (B-ISG) which operates at 12 volts, and the first and only system based on the highly controllable switched reluctance motor-generator technology.
LC Super Hybrid Technology
LC Super Hybrid technology demonstrator is based on a VW Passat 1.4-litre TSI model and also features an electric supercharger which boosts the existing turbocharger, and CPT SpeedStart stop-start technology (top right) and Mubea belt tensioner.
Vilner BMW F10 is the latest project that has just been finished by the exceptional Bulgarian tuning company Vilner. The car already has got the perfect forms, design and technical characteristics. What makes it unique however, is the astonishing interior design, which is everything that one could possibly want. In details, the interior is in white and carries a well outspoken personality. This is achieved due to the high-quality materials used: white leather for the seats and for the internal par of the doors, the lower part of the panel; and black Alcantara for the attic and the inner part of the seats. The leading motive is the red line, which is featured in key parts of the coupe and makes a great accent on the gearshift and the steering wheel. More importantly, the latter is entirely recreated and now has new more ergonomically improved design. This exceptional work from the Vilner Tuning Company is once again a proof of the quality of work they are delivering. The result after this modification is an interior, which can be a proud rival to any new conceptual vehicle. What Vilner has done here is to bring even more energy, style and appeal to the already amazing BMW F10.
At 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Peugeot is going to unveil five new models: the new 2012 Peugeot 208, which is expected to reaffirm its strong market positioning; three HYbrid4 diesel-electric hybrid models; and the new 2012Peugeot 4008.
Undeniably the 208 model has already become an icon. From it has been sold more than 15 million examples over 30 years. Now, the new 2012 Peugeot 208 reinvents the dynamics of its segment with the goal to regain leadership of its category in Europe. The new version is architecturally regenerated and combines compactness (length: 3.96 m), reduced weight and enhanced passenger space. In addition it is going to be offered in different body styles – with three or five doors. It is characterized by completely redefining the position of the instruments and controls, the intuitive connectivity of its large touch screen function and a refined interior. Furthermore, the car is designed to be highly-efficient, economical and yet powerful. This is achieved through the extended e-HDi range and the first applications of an all- new family of three-cylinder petrol engines. At last, due to a new roadholding combination reflecting all the expertise of the brand, in it is featured active and passive safety, and innovative equipment such as a Park Assist function. The new 208 will be launched in early spring this year.
2012 Peugeot 208
Next to the premiere of the new 2012 Peugeot 208, the brand is also going to present for the first time two concept cars: XY Concept and GTi Concept, which are based on the 2012 Peugeot 208 3-door version. The two concept vehicles carry strong but distinct personalities: the XY Concept is intended for urban citizens who appreciate versatility and refinement, whereas the GTi Concept is the remake of a legend. Both cars have distinctive body colors which are achieved through an exclusive process, perfectly integrated stylistic and aerodynamic components, with strong and richly equipped interior environments.
Peugeot 208 GTi Concept
Peugeot 208 XY Concept
HYbrid4technology is one of Peugeot’s greatest achievements in terms of innovation and environmentalism. The brand is continuing to reduce the CO2 emissions of the vehicles in its ranges. For instance, the average emissions of the Peugeot models stood at 129g/km in 2011, which is already below the target threshold of 130g/km set by the European Commission for 2015. Furthermore, Peugeot adopts a philosophy which aims the continuous improvement of the internal combustion engine (achieved through downsizing, e-HDi Stop & Start Systems), and typified by the introduction of a new generation of engines (such as the new EB family of petrol engines – three-cylinder 1.0l and 1.2l). More importantly, Peugeot’s technological innovation is the world-first diesel-electric hybrid – the HYbrid4 technology. Thus, the brand is now offering a new range reaching new levels of environmental performance and driving sensation. In details, the unique technology is a hybridation of a 2.0 HDi FAP 163 hp (120 kW) diesel engine driving the front wheels with an electric motor of 37 hp (27 kW) integrated within the rear axle. This of course, results in the combination of a new driving sensation, which offer maximum combined power output of 200 hp (147 kW), “ZEV” (Zero Emissions Vehicle) mode, and fuel consumption 35% lower than that of a vehicle fitted with an internal combustion engine of comparable power and size. In Geneva are going to be showcased three models, demonstrating the potential for application of the HYbrid4 drivetrain across the range: the Peugeot3008 HYbrid4, which is already on sale; 2012 Peugeot508 RXH, launched soon after the first mentioned, which is also a diesel-electric hybrid but with distinctive and prestige features that offer original view of the world of all-road vehicles with enhanced driving attributes; and at last the Peugeot 508 HYbrid4 saloon, which is going to debut and will be available in dealerships in the summer this year.
2012 Peugeot 508 RHX
The new 2012 Peugeot 4008, is going to be another debut vehicle at the Geneva Motor Show. It carries a distinctive appearance and in addition to this its’ 4×4 SUV capabilities are make it even more attractive. It is born of the PSA Peugeot Citroёn – Mitsubishi partnership, and thus incorporates appealing, strong, identifiable Peugeot personality. The adventurous character of the vehicle is visible at first sight, due to the emphasis of the grille of vertical design, with body sill protectors and functional wheel arch extension trims. The interior of the new 4008 is improved by the choice of materials and the richness of the equipment. It includes glass panoramic roof, which gives the occupants an exclusive ambience. In addition to this it is compact (length: 4.34 m) and has good maneuverability. It is equally suited to everyday use and leisure pursuits. The 4008’s range has the choice of four engines (two diesel and two petrol) and comes with selectable electronic 4×4 transmission. More importantly, it has achieved a record of low CO2 emissions in its category, and thus is capable of operating economically and efficiently in a multitude of different environments and locations.
The new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit is designed and engineered to be a high-performance police vehicle. It is in two models: V-6 and V-8, which will set new levels of performance during the Michigan State Police’s (MSP) 2012 Police Vehicle Evaluation tests. The V-8 model is powered by 5.7-liter HEMI engine, which delivers best-in-class 370 hp (272 kW) and therefore could deliver the fastest lap time ever recorded (1:33.70) during MSP’s 2012 Police Vehicle Evaluation tests last fall. In addition, Charger Pursuit V-6 models with their the 292 hp (215 kW) showcased their world-class performance and precision with the fastest average lap times for naturally aspirated (1:37.71) and E-85 capable (1:37.57) six-cylinder powered police cars.
The 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit V-8 also delivered the police sedan segment’s fastest acceleration times and covered the 0 to 60 mph for just 5.83 seconds.
The model is also improved in terms of including world-class levels of technology, enhanced safety, handling and efficient power. This of course was possible, thank to Mopar® which teamed up with industry-equipment leaders to develop six factory-installed police packages.
The aim is the design of the car to provide law-enforcement officers with the best combination of tactical equipment and performance.
Some of these police-equipment packages include:
Base Prep Police Package, which features front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;
Patrol Package 1, which includes police floor console, front-corner LED lamps, rear-corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;
Patrol Package 2, which includes police floor console, push bumper, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker and bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;
Patrol Package 3, which includes push bumper, police floor console, front corner LED lamps, rear corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk accessory cooling fan;
Slick Top Police Package 1: includes police floor console, front and rear wire harness, power-distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan;
Slick Top Police Package 2, which includes front-corner LED lamps, rear-corner LED lamps, front and rear wire harness, power distribution center, siren speaker with bracket, trunk tray and trunk cooling fan. Adding more to the six packages, there are also available for order 24 Mopar tactical accessories, which include light bars, LED lighting systems, push bumper, CAN-control siren system and more.
Furthermore 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit is also equipped with Chrysler Group’s second-generation large car rear-wheel-drive architecture with performance-tuned suspension, load-leveling Nivomat shocks, heavy-duty anti-lock vented-disc brakes (ABS), front- and rear-stabilizer bars, 18-inch performance tires on steel wheels and two-mode police-specific Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Moreover, the model also features a mobile-command interior which has Vehicle Systems Interface Module for easy equipment integration, heavy-duty police-duty front seats and column-mounted shifter with Auto Stick. Additionally, it also includes uncompromising safety and security equipment: standard advanced multi-stage driver and front-passenger air bags, seat-mounted side-thorax air bags, supplemental side-curtain air bags for front and rear outboard passengers and driver’s knee bag.
Subaru brand has just announced that its 2012 Subaru XV is awarded with the highest possible rating – five-star – by EuroNCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) for its overall safety performance. This year’s rating reflects the performance of the XV according to the latest requirements set by Euro NCAP’s. Additional assessment system has been applied since 2009 by Euro NCAP which evaluates “Adult Occupant Protection”, “Child Occupant Protection”, “Pedestrian Protection” and “Safety Assist”. Another highlight here us that five star rating is being awarded to the Subaru XV model for the second consecutive year.
Subaru further improved its unique “ring-shaped reinforcement frame body” by optimizing the impact energy relay structure. The use of high tensile steel was also increased on the new Subaru XV. All these features actually allow the reduction in weight, higher collision safety performance to impacts from all directions, and improved passenger safety. Furthermore, additional airbags have been installed in the front seats, driver’s knee, and sides. The above features are topped with VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), which now is standard equipment on all models. The new 2012 Subaru XV has already received excellent reviews for its safety performance, SUV functionality and stylish design.
2012 Subaru XV
Moreover, Subaru aims to pursue all-around safety with the continuation of its’ active, passive and pre-crash safety technologies. In details, active safety includes safety enhanced by driveability and risk-avoidance technologies; passive safety: safety enhanced by collision safety systems; and at last the pre-crash safety featured safety enhanced by advanced driving assist technologies such as warning alerts and autonomous emergency braking
Lexus brand is going to launch its all-new Lexus GS Range which includes greater specifications and exceptional value. The all new models of 2012 Lexus GS 250 and 2012 Lexus GS 350 are set to arrive at dealerships in April this year. More importantly they will feature sharp pricing of their three variants, starting from $77 900 for the GS 250 Luxury model. This means that there is around 20 percent improvement in the price. In addition, for this exclusive price, Lexus customers are going to enjoy new exceptional equipment, coming as a standard. There are included innovative features such as: Blind Spot Monitor, Tyre Pressure Monitoring, 8-sensor parking and clearance sonar, reverse camera, and Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with AFS. Further standard features include next generation Lexus Remote Touch (LRT), available metallic self-healing paint, Drive Mode Select, Rain sensing wipers, DAB+ Digital Radio, satellite navigation with live traffic alerts, four door smart entry with card key, advanced BluetoothTM with audio streaming and Lexus VDIM vehicle stability system.
New 2012 Lexus GS Range
To be more precise the new 2012 Lexus GS 250 range includes two new variants – Luxury and F Sport. They are expected to successfully join the existing Sports Luxury in the line-up. All three models are powered by an efficient, all-alloy, quad-cam V6 that develops 210 hp (154kW) of power. On the other hand, the new 2012 Lexus GS 350 models will mirror that of the GS 250 line-up and feature a best-in- class 317 hp (233kW), 3.5L petrol, all-alloy, quad cam V6. The starting price for the GS 350 is $89 900.
The efficient yet potent 2012 Lexus GS 450h hybrid model, delivers 345 hp (254kW) of power. The model will be available from June this year with a recommended retail price of $99 900. It will enter the market with a decrease in price of $20 000 (compared to the superseded model), but yet offering greater space, comfort, safety and specification. In details, the hybrid vehicle consumes just 6.3 litres of fuel per 100km. In addition, GS 450h will also be offered in three versions: Luxury, F Sport and Sport Luxury.
Additionally, to the standard specifications, come also 17-inch alloy wheels; 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift; ECO/NORMAL and SPORT driving modes; cruise control; leather accented interior; front fog lamps; LED Daytime Running Lights; dual-zone climate control; ventilated and heated front seats; 10-way electric seats with 3-position drivers memory and self dimming and heated exterior mirrors. The new GS 250, 350 and 450h F Sport models come equipped with sports suspension; sports pedals; Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS); additional SPORT + drive mode; unique interior trim with 16-way driver’s sport bucket seats; unique sport body kit and grille and unique 19-inch alloy wheels. Furthermore, the GS 350 and 450h F Sport versions, include the Lexus Dynamic Handling System (LDH) with Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS); Advanced Pre-Collision safety System with Active Cruise Control; Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS); larger front two-piece rotor brake package; VDIM Step 5 incorporating DRS and Head Up Display (HUD). At last, the Sport Luxury vehicles are also equipped with 12.3 inch multimedia system; Driver Fatigue Monitor with eye detection; Advanced Pre Collision safety System with Active Cruise Control; 20-way adjustable front seats; Head Up Display (HUD); 17 speaker Mark Levinson audio; Tri-zone climate control with rear controls and Nanoe technology; Automatic High Beam (AHB); semi-aniline leather accents; genuine wood grain trim and side and electric rear window sunshades.
Toyota has just announced the exclusive news about the official EU CO2 emissions and economy figures for the new 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid and they are exceptional. The vehicle emits 49g/km of CO2 on the combined cycle and travel 134.5 miles on one gallon of petrol. These numbers makes it the most efficient Toyota on the market. The engineers in addition have improved the car’s EV driving range to 15.5 miles. This is an improvement of 24% versus the customer trial vehicle. Another thing which makes it unique is that it takes only 90 minutes to recharge the car, using a conventional plug. When the EV battery is depleted, the 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid automatically switches into HV mode. In this mode, the vehicle delivers CO2 emissions of 85 g/km and economy of 76.4mpg. This is an improvement on the emissions and fuel economy of the standard Prius. This leading performance helps to deliver a total driving range of 769 miles. The car continues to offer the same interior space as the standard Prius, with seating for five and 443 litres of bootspace. 2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid will be launched in the summer of 2012.
At the 2012 Geneva Motor Show Citroen will showcase a wide range of their new and stylish models. Some of the vehicle will make their world wide debut, while other will be already known by the public. The visitor will see the complete DS line, along with a new DS4 Racing concept and new special editions – DS4 and DS5 Paris Rendez-Vous and DS3 Racing S. Loeb. More over, this year Citroen brand is putting highlight on the improvement of the ecological performance of its vehicles through the reduced average CO2 emissions of its range. In particular, it is reduced with 5g/km in a year due to the use of e-HDi micro-hybrid, full electric and full hybrid diesel technology.
First of all Citroen will display all three models in the DS line, starting with the New DS5. The new DS offers bold and creative design, premium quality and innovative technologies. As with DS3 Racing, Citroen engineers have taken their multi WRC winning expertise and put their unique stamp on Citroen DS4. This resulted in the creation of the new concept, which will make its debut in Geneva. Citroen DS4 Racing Concept features new carbon fibre components including an air diffuser, front splitter and wheel arch extensions. It is powered by 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine, which develops up to 256 bhp (188 kW). This exclusive performance is accompanied by CO2 emissions of just 155g/km! In addition, the engineers of the car have transformed the chassis and running gear with the utmost precision. Now, the chassis is lowered by 35mm and the track widened by 55mm at the front and 75mm at the rear. The braking system boasts fixed four-piston callipers at the front together with special 380mm diameter discs. The concept is also fitted with larger diameter 19-inch wheels and 235/40 tyres. Another grabbing-attention feature in the new concept is the textured-effect matt grey paint, which catches the light to further enhance the lines of the car. Additional exterior refinements include a two-tone roof and two-tone wheels with a special DS4 Racing design.
Citroen DS4 Racing Concept
Citroen DS3 Ultra Prestige is the next model from the DS line, which will be showcased in Geneva. It represents a confident foray into the world of luxury, combining sophisticated style, premium specification and distinctive personality. It is powered by a punchy THP 155 petrol engine or a fuel and CO2 efficient e-HDi 110 diesel with Stop & Start.
Citroen DS3 Ultra Prestige
CitroEn is introducing two limited edition versions of DS4 and DS5, which are under the title Paris Rendez-Vous limited edition. The models include pearlescent white paint, chrome-finished door mirrors, chrome trim and black diamond-effect 19-inch alloy wheels. Moreover, the club leather interior is finished with the DS line’s signature ‘watchstrap’ design in a warm brown colour with striking blue overstitching. The leather upholstery is of high-quality and the club leather finish on the dashboard of the Citroen DS4 Paris Rendez-Vous is in the same brown colour to match the seat upholstery.
Another Geneva debut, Citroen DS3 Racing S. Loeb, is very special edition of series and limited in number as well. There are only 200 examples of it. This edition is based on the DS3 Racing and is fitted with Citroen’s MyWay navigation system, and features a distinctive use of colours and materials. The body is painted in matt black colour with textured effect. This special finish is not only robust, but also highlights the lines of the car. The roof, door mirrors, grille, dashboard fascia and gearstick base all feature a contrasting shade of red. The new model also features special decals and, as an exclusive limited series, sports a numbered identification plate on the roof lining.
Citroen DS3 Racing S Loeb
Citroen DS5 Hybrid4 is the first Citroen with a full hybrid drivetrain. It combines an HDi diesel engine with electric power delivering a performance of up to 200 bhp (147 kW). It is a four wheel drive with zero emissions for urban use and an acceleration boost function in the ‘Sport’ setting – with low CO2 emissions from just 99 g/km.
Citroen DS5
A premiere is making the new Citroen C4 Aircross which is is a fresh take on the compact SUV and brings together contemporary styling and technological innovation. Citroen C4 Aircross offers the following features: strong and elegant styling, which clearly draws on Citroën’s design DNA; flexible transmission system with three manually selected settings; 2WD, 4WD & LOCK; just 119g/km of CO2 with the HDi 115 version in two-wheel drive form; compact exterior dimensions (4.34m long), combined with a spacious interior & a 442-litre boot; all the driving pleasure and serene comfort of a traditional Citroën hatchback; raised driving position with a panoramic glass roof; wide range of equipment, including NaviDrive satnav with touch screen & reversing camera, hands-free access & ignition, a Rockford Hi-Fi system & an integrated server for storing music. On display will be the exclusive Citroen C4 Aircross with all-new Vapor Gray frosted-texture paint. The roof bars, door mirrors and door handles are all chrome-finished to match the new colour, while the two-tone diamond-effect wheel rims sport the same Vapor Gray tone as the interior.
Citroen C4 Aircross
A legend is going to be on display too: the compact, economical and ecological Citroen C1 city car, which now has been refreshed for the year of 2012. The new version of Citroen C1 offers CO2 emissions from just 99g/km, LED daytime running lights, a CD audio system with Citroën’s integrated Connecting Box (Bluetooth® system with USB socket) and an Electronic Gearbox System with steering-mounted paddles.
Citroen C1
Citroen is also showcasing the production version of Citroen C3 Red Block, which debuted in concept form at 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The model includes improved dynamics and more muscular look. The C3 Red Block comes with more dynamic suspension settings – roughly 50% more stiffness and nearly 25% less roll – with the steering adapted to the new suspension settings for a more defined road feel. The body height has been lowered 25mm and ESP has been fitted as standard for more verve and control. Citroen C3 Red Block is available with three engines: VTi 120 petrol, e-HDi 90 diesel and e-HDi 100 diesel, mated to manual gearboxes. The body of the vehicle is painted with a Shark Blue body paint which is combined with a bumper strip in the same colour. There are also other body colours available: Banquise White, Aluminium Grey, Manitoba Grey and Obsidian Black – they all come with a gloss black bumper strip. The door mirrors and door handles are finished in Obsidian black. The 17-inch diamond-effect wheels are fitted with 205/40 tyres. The interior of the Citroen C3 Red Block features a gloss black dashboard fascia, while the pedals and front door surrounds are aluminium. The diameter of the steering wheel has been reduced by 20mm to further enhance driving pleasure with a tighter feel. The special red leather seat upholstery is optional.
Citroen C3 Red Block
At last, at the Geneva Motor Show will be presented the refreshed Citroen Berlingo Multispace. It includes new styling whith wider, more defined grille, a new chevron badge and a new headlight arrangement. The indicators, for example, are now to the side of the main light units and are underlined by blue segments for an even stronger personality. The lower part of the grille can be fitted with static cornering lights integrated with the fog lights and LEDs provide an eye-catching daytime lighting signature. A customised Onyx Black trim can be seen on the top of the front bumper, side mirrors, side rubbing strips and rear number plate moulding. The interior includes colours and materials that have been revised on all levels of trim. New Berlingo Multispace is also available with two new body colours: Nocciola and Belle Ile Blue. This is one of the most robust, practical and spacious models in its segment. It specified with up to seven independent seats. Moreover, model’s generous interior dimensions can be fitted with the Modutop®: a glazed roof with multiple stowage compartments, a dual access boot, individually controlled ventilation and additional lighting for passengers in the rear. The new Berlingo Multispace is available different types of engines, including the e-HDi micro-hybrid powertrain with Stop & Start and a six-speed automated manual gearbox. The e-HDi 90 Airdream EGS6 version delivers CO2 emissions of just 125g/km.
The tuning company LUMMA Design is going to preview what they have done on the Porsche Carrera 911 S for the first time. The project carries the name CLR 9 S and has aerodynamic package, beautifully designs light alloy rims and an attractive interior. Of course, the tuners have put a lot of attention on the details and this was made with the help of their CLR aerodynamic components. In particular, the front spoiler lip with integrated cup-spoiler sword is now combined with the CLR-design front grill frame. This undoubtedly this gives the LUMMA Design CLR 9 S very unique appearance. In addition, there have been included stylish headlights which add even further to the design. The overhanging fenders at the rear of the CLR 9 S are additionally emphasized by a three-part spoiler lip, which also provides increased down force at the rear axle. This results in improvement of the handling at high speeds.
With the installation of LUMMA Design four-pipe sports muffler made from a high-quality V4A-alloy and the matching tailpipes with a 90-millimeter diameter, the vehicle is now even sportier. The tailpipes, with their unique “pipe-in-pipe” design are also available individually, just like the CLR 9 S aerodynamic components, which are produced in OEM quality. Additionally, the LUMMA Designrear sports muffler is also available with valve control, which produces the gritty flat engine sound in an even more dynamic fashion. Of course, all this comes with an attractive exterior racing stripe kit. Furthermore, the Porsche sits on the unique LUMMA Edition “GS/R” Edition Sports Rims which are forged light-metal alloy rims. With a weight of just 9.4 kilograms in the 9 x 20” version and 11.4 kilogramsin the 12 x 20” variant, the “GS/R” forged rims are truly lightweight. They are also available in tow colors – silver and black. The wheels of the LUMMA Design CLR 9 S measure 9 x 20 inches at the front and 12 x 20 inches at the drive shaft. High-performance tires measuring 245/30-20 and 305/30-20 are installed at the front and rear respectively.
LUMMA Design Porsche CLR 9 S
LUMMA Design has used of course only high-quality materials combined with the finest craftsmanship in the transformation of the interior. In details it is full leather interior: a mix of red leather and black alcantara. The two-color finish in leather and alcantara can be seen on the dashboard, sports steering wheel, roof, door panels, central console and the many other interior features. Everything is wrapped in leather and alcantara, except for the aluminum pedals and the white instrument panel. In addition, the range of sophisticated accessories from LUMMA Designis also exquisite: the door sill panels are made of aluminum, there is also include leather-trimmed velour mats and interior panels in embossed carbon leather. The aluminum pedals are fitted with rubber studs, rendering them highly slip-resistant. The steering wheel on the other hand is all covered with alcantara.
With the worldwide debut of the LUMMA Porsche CLR 9 S at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, LUMMA Design will present a completely modified Porsche Carrera 911 while remaining true to the original Porsche design.
Nissan is the one of the biggest leaders in the production of crossovers all over the world. What we are going to see from the brand at this year’s Geneva Motor Show is something spectacular.
There, we are promised to preview how Nissan explores new ideas and manifest them in reality. In addition, the brand is looking for an expansion in terms of award-winning range segment, and this is exactly where the attention will be put on the show in Geneva. A sneak peak of what is going to come and what we are going to see on 6th of March is the exclusively released video teaser of the new Nissan Hi-Cross Concept vehicle. The video is so creatively made that after watching it you’ll be “hungry” to know more about the upcoming concept car. Of course, any other details than these are scarcity at the moment so we have to wait till the show next week.
Nissan Hi-Cross Concept
So, let’s have a preview of the new Nissan Hi-Cross Concept:
Nissan has just announced the introduction of its next-generation vehicle engineering concept. It carries the name Nissan Common Module Family (CMF) and it is going to be featured in vehicles in 2013. The innovative CMF technology combines modular engineering with Nissan’s own engineering technologies, in areas such as simulation and variation engineering and simplicity. With the development of CMF, Nissan expects to raise the popularity of its products and thereby significantly expand sales volume. Since a long time already has Nissan been promoting vehicle platform communization. It started with several vehicle variations derived from a single platform. As a result, this has become critical to achieving the rapid improvements in products, which is necessary for a company to survive in the competitive market. Nissan is aware that each new vehicle that is developed must include distinctive characteristics, improved fuel economy, passenger safety and IT features, and the rapid application of the latest technologies into the development process. It is important now that volume efficiencies must be achieved with the help and use of common vehicle structures, components and parts. Up to now, it was difficult to balance such contrasting elements. However, Nissan is fully embracing these challenges and implementing its next-generation “Nissan CMF” vehicle engineering strategy.
“Nissan CMF” Next-Generation Vehicle Engineering “4+1 Big Module Concept”
In details, the application of Nissan CMF determines the use of four modules – engine compartment, cockpit, front underbody and rear underbody – as well as the architecture for electronic components, with each module having appropriate variations. What is important here is that vehicles are designed by combining these modules in different ways. Hence, all this results in variety of vehicles, depending on the module configuration: from compacts, large-sized vehicles through to tall SUVs. All of them can be efficiently designed.
Nissan brand made a committement to introducing 90 new technologies by 2016 and Nissan CMF is one of them. It will enable commonization that transcends vehicle segments, efficiency, and make the application of attractive new technologies across several models.
Mazda Motor Corporation has just released the new 2012 Mazda Demio 13C-V Smart Edition for their customers in Japan. Mazda Demio is known in other countries as Mazda2. The 13C-V Smart Edition is based on the 13C-V model, which is designed with the aim to promote introduction of clean energy vehicles and is newly equipped with dark tinted glass in the rear door and rear gate. In addition, through the replacement of the existing automatic climate control with new manual air conditioning, its price was set to deliver more value for money. The base model of this Special Edition features: dark tinted glass (rear door glass and rear gate glass), manual air conditioning (changed from automatic climate control). There are also available nine body colors: Spirited Green Metallic, Metropolitan Gray Mica, Radiant Ebony Mica, True Red, Chrystal White Pearl Mica, Brilliant Black, Sunlight Silver Metallic, Aluminum Metallic and Burgundy Red Mica. The interior colors however are only two: Black and Light Gray.
The new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit 
