Alpina has announced the new boosted 2012 B5 Bi-Turbo. The sports saloon comes with more power, better acceleration and performance and improved fuel efficiency.
2012 Alpina B5 Bi-Turbo is powered by the famous twin-turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 now delivering 540PS (397 kW) and 730Nm (538 lb-ft). This is an increase of 33PS (24 kW) and 30Nm (22 lb-ft) over the previous version. The acceleration to 100 km/h is faster with 0.2 seconds – 4.5 s and the top speed is 319 km/h (198 mph), which is 12 km/h (7 mph) more.
The overall weight of the car is 1920 kg, which is a lot, but the performance is brutal. The fuel consumption is 10.5 litres per 100 km (26.9 mpg imp) with 244 g/km of CO2 – combined cycle.
The ride sits on enormous 20” Alpina Classic alloys 8.5J x 20” with 255/35 ZR20 front and 9.5J x 20” with 285/30 ZR20 rear tires.
The new version of B5 Bi-Turbo will make its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, next month.
Volkswagen has announced the new Caddy Match Special Edition, which is already available at the UK market. The pricing starts at £14 110 for the entry level Caddy Match 1.6 litre TDI 75PS and goes up to £17 960 for the Caddy Maxi Match 2.0 litre TDI 140PS.
The Caddy Match adds equipment for £1 750 over the normal model. It includes AC, Bluetooth connectivity, electric windows, electrically operated and heated door mirrors, cruise control, trip computer, body-coloured bumpers and door mirrors, plus exclusive wheel trims. The options list includes DSG dual-clutch gearbox.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles also offers fixed-price service plans from £250 (plus VAT) for three years or 30 000 miles.
The latest version of Ford Ranger has cemented its position as the Europe’s safest pickup. It did that by passing Euro NCAP’s toughest-ever safety assessment. There has been introduced a new scoring system for 2012 and the pickup achieved the maximum possible five-star rating! This means that the vehicle remains the only one which got the whole five stars rating. In addition, the best-selling Ford Focus also got its five stars after being reassessed. The 2012 Euro NCAP ratings are the safety barometer. Obviously, safety is a core value for Ford Motor Company Ranger and Focus proves this philosophy, by meeting the highest standards demanded by Euro NCAP. Ranger has unique features designed to improve pedestrian protection performance including an under-bonnet structure which reduces the potential for pedestrian head injuries. The front bumper incorporates energy-absorbing materials designed to further enhance safety. The new Ford Ranger is the only vehicle in its class, which has achieved the highest possible rating.
Ford Tourneo Custom Concept will be previewed for the first time in the world at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March. It will bring more dynamism, new level of energy and style. Tourneo Custom Concept has a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style, functionality and space. In addition, the Tourneo Custom Concept features a wide variety of exciting new features that give the vehicle strong car-like appeal. For example, the vehicle includes all-new interior design with driver-focused cockpit, a luxurious, fully trimmed cabin which has the ambience and high-quality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car. The concept vehicle also features a number of smart innovations including multi-adjustable and removable rear seating, advanced SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system and the latest Ford low-CO2 ECOnetic Technologies.
Ford Tourneo Custom Concept
Moreover, the new Ford Tourneo Custom Concept carries an advanced, streamlined appearance with sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line and flush glazing. The Signature Kinetic Design features help give the Tourneo Custom Concept its unique character, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line, prominent wheel lips and window lines with the distinctive kick at the rear. Furthermore, additional improvements are delivered by number of stylish details from the chrome grille surround and striking LED lighting on the front-end, to the dynamic looks of the 18-inch alloy wheels. The interior is all-new. Moreover, it is luxurious and car-like. The stylish instrument panel is orientated around the driver, and features technologies which are closely-related to those in Ford’s car range. The interior follows the same Kinetic Design approach as well. Passengers in the rear are surrounded by space and luxury, with a fully-trimmed cabin that incorporates bold Kinetic Design detailing on the side panels which are linked to the graphical themes from the front. Additionally, the rear seats carry completely new design, and can be easily folded into multiple configurations, or even removed completely. This unique luxurious and spacious feel of the interior is further improved by an exclusive two-tone color scheme, featuring hand-stitched leather seats with attractive cloth inserts.
Some smart and innovative features included on the FordTourneo Custom Concept are: ECOnetic Technologies – Ford’s advanced low-CO2 features including Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging; SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and controlled using voice control; Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, assisting occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information; Advanced restraint system – including driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags; Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror; Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert.
Furthermore the new concept vehicle offers outstanding performance and fuel economy. It is powered by a further improved 155 PS (114 kW) version of Ford’s 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine family. The Tourneo Custom Concept is based on a new Ford global platform. The aim of the new design philosophy is to deliver deliver car-like dynamics, including agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels.
Ford Tourneo Custom Concept
The Tourneo Custom Concept is a forerunner of the arrival of a completely new generation of Ford commercial vehicles, which full range of models will be revealed during 2012. The new family range will be powered by enhanced versions of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine and has Auto-Stop-Start technology fitted as standard. In this way Ford is targeting best-in-class fuel economy. Three power ratings will be available: 100 PS (74 kW), 125 PS (92 kW) and 155 PS (114 kW). All versions are paired with a six-speed manual transmission and feature front-wheel drive.
A successful day for Mia Electric today, because its all three of its vehicles got the qualification for the ‘Plug-In Car’ and ‘Plug-In Van’ Grants. The Office for Low Emissions Vehicles (OLEV) determined that mia electric’s vehicles meet all the safety, reliability, performance and warranty standards necessary for the UK market. The Mia-U is currently on trial with a major UK company that is considering the switch to electric for its sizeable fleet of commercial vans. The vehicle is designed specifically for inner-city environments and commercial vehicles account for a significant proportion of traffic in urban areas. On the other hand, the Mia box van is a key component of the product range and mia electric is considering bringing it to the UK market later this year. Cars and vans are vital people’s lives. Moroever, the climate change is a global challenge and it can not be ignored.
Mia Box Van
To go further into details, the cars come in three configurations – the standard short wheelbase model and two extended models, the Mia L and the Mia box van. The standard design concept Mia-U has a light-weight body and weighs only 765kg (extended models weigh 786kg). More importantly it has extremely economical power consumption and low running costs – approximately £1.30 per 100 kms. All three vehicles are powered by an 18kW electric motor at the rear of the car. The tops speed of the vehicle is 68 mph (100km/h), and a 120 to 130km range is available from the 12 kWh battery pack that comes as standard and the lithium iron phosphate batteries. The latter can be fully charged in five hours. This battery system is exceptionally safe and helps alleviate range anxiety by allowing “no memory effect” charging. To be more precise, the battery can be charged for short top-up periods with absolutely no adverse effect to the life of the battery. The standard short wheelbase Mia-U includes three seats in total, while the extended Mia L has four. Mia box van features a cargo capacity of 1,500 litres. The most interesting part of all three vehicles is the central driving position. With this design innovation, the driver can get in and out of the car on both sides. Moreover, this provides the driver with a perfect view of the city traffic and gives the cabin a unique office-style layout.
Mia’s standard short wheelbase model (Mia-U) will retail at approximately £21 000 and the two extended models, the Mia L and the Mia box van, will both retail at approximately £22 000.
The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL is the world’s first electric van, which is now eligible for the Government’s new Plug-In Van Grant, reducing costs by 20%. There are several regulations needed to be fulfilled like emitting less than 75g/km CO2, be capable of at least 60 miles (100 km) between charges and a top speed of more than 50mph (80 km/h).
Vito E-CELL is powered by an electric motor with 82PS (60 kW) and 280Nm (207 lb-ft). It has 16 Lithium-ion battery modules with a combined capacity of 36 kWh. This means a maximum range of 130km (80 miles) on a single six-hour charge from a 380/400 volt input.
Although that the electric Vito is not so powerful, it comes with ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) as standard.
“With an enviable range, advanced safety systems and payload equal to a regular van, the zero-local emissions electric Vito E-CELL easily meets the criteria for the new Plug-In Van Grant, and we welcome its introduction.”, said Steve Bridge, Van Sales and Marketing Director for Mercedes-Benz UK.
“Schemes like this help businesses to do their bit – and to join us in working hard to lower vehicle emissions. It is our ultimate goal at Mercedes-Benz to achieve emission-free driving and our first-ever series produced electric van is testament to our commitment to deliver this.”, he added.
The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG is another masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG. This SL 63 AMG is available with a choice of two power outputs. The AMG 5.5-litre V8 ‘biturbo’ (twin-turbocharged) engine, which delivers 395 kW (537 hp) and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque. If the AMG Performance package is specified, these figures are increased to 415 kW (564 hp) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft). The acceleration is from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.3 or 4.2 seconds and to 200 km/h in 12.9 or 12.6 seconds respectively. Top speed is electronically limited 250 km/h. With the AMG Performance package on board it is raised to 300 km/h (likewise electronically limited). NEDC combined consumption comes in at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres for both power outputs – a full 4.2 litres or 30 percent lower than for the outgoing model.
Behind the low fuel consumption is the lightweight construction of the SL 63 AMG. The vehicle is based on a lightweight all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car. The result is weight saving of around 110 kilograms. Moreover the components have been optimised in line with their specific purpose. For the cover, for instance, behind the tank, the engineers have used even lighter magnesium material in some cases. High-strength steel tubes are integrated into the A-pillars for safety reasons. The boot lid helps to further trim the weight: the inner support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite and is bonded to the plastic outer shell, resulting in a weight saving of five kilograms. Moreover, almost all of the multi-link independent rear suspension components are made of aluminium. The reduction in unsprung masses enhances both agility and the response of the spring and damper components. The all-new SL 63 AMG is equipped with an improved version of the AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control as standard. As a result the car has exceptional sport characteristics with reduced roll angles and firm body damping (“Sport”) or more comfort-oriented settings for a high level
of comfort on long journeys (“Comfort”). In addition for greater agility and faster cornering speeds, the SL 63 AMG has fully revised elastokinematics. Furthermore, the model is equipped with the new, electro-mechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, which now has a constant and more direct ratio, and variable power assistance which adjusts in line with the suspension settings. Further standard equipment features 3‑stage ESP®, a speciality exclusive to AMG with “SPORT Handling” mode for particularly keen drivers, while options available from the AMG Performance Studio include an AMG rear axle differential lock and AMG performance suspension.
More importantly the power transmission can be adapted to specific requirements. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission has four modes to select from: “C” (Controlled Efficiency), “S” (Sport), “S+” (Sport plus) and “M” (Manual). To go furter into details, in “C” mode, the ECO start/stop function is active at all times and switches off the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is standing still. The engine and transmission are far more agile in “S”, “S+” and “M” mode. Here the stop/start function is deactivated. An automatic double-declutching function for downshifting and the RACE START function are also included as standard with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.
When it comes to braking, the new model got the freshly developed AMG high-performance compound brake system features 390 x 36 mm compound discs with six-piston fixed callipers at the front and 360 x 26 mm integral discs with single-piston floating callipers at the rear. In addition, an electric parking brake is fitted as standard, while options available from the AMG Performance Studio include red-painted callipers to denote the AMG Performance package. The SL 63 AMG sits on five-twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, shod with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 19 rear tyres. There are also available of course, multi-spoke AMG forged wheels from the AMG Performance Studio with 255/35 R 19 front and 285/30 R 20 rear tyres.
The new SL 63 AMG has a dynamically distinctive AMG bodystyling. It features front apron with large air dams, AMG-specific LED daytime running lamps and a lower cross strut in silver chrome, new AMG radiator grille with a double louvre in silver chrome, the side sill panels and the “V8 BITURBO” logos on the vent grilles with fins in silver chrome, AMG spoiler lip, the two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system, the diffuser-style rear apron with body-coloured insert.
The sixth-generation SL retains the space-saving, electrohydraulically retractable vario-roof. It enables the the SL to transformed itself into a roadster or a coupé, as the mood takes the driver and depending on the weather, in under 20 seconds. More importantly there are three versions of this roof to choose from: painted roof, glass roof or the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL.
2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG
The interior of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG is as extraordinary and exciting as the exterior. It offers a lot of equipment: four air vents styled like jet engines, the E-SELECT lever, the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Standard equipment includes AMG sports seats in single-tone or two-tone nappa leather with a unique V8 seat upholstery layout and AMG badges in the seat backrests, a multicontour function and seat heating as well as AMG carbon-fibre trim, AMG illuminated door sill panels, ambient lighting and an IWC-design analogue clock, AMG performance steering wheel, AMG instrument cluster provides which includes a TFT colour monitor, AMG start-up display, AMG main menu and RACETIMER.
Further standard equipment for the SL 63 AMG include: ATTENTION ASSIST COMAND Online with 6-disc DVD changer, anti-theft alarm system, frontbass, remote-unlocking boot lid including power closing for boot lid, Intelligent Light System ILS, MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive windscreen cleaning system, NECK-PRO head restraints, PRE-SAFE® system, automatic, pop-up roll-over bars for driver and front passenger, draught-stop
The SL 63 AMG extensive range of optional extras comprises of: AIRSCARF neck-level heating, Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system, Driving Assistance package Plus (DISTRONIC PLUS including BAS PLUS, PRE‑SAFE® brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist), harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system, KEYLESS-GO Convenience package (including remote-closing boot lid and HANDS-FREE ACCESS system), Exclusive nappa leather Climatised seats, Electric draught-stop.
Furthermore, it is now possible to add even more individuality to the SL 63 AMG, with more optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio: AMG Performance package (increase in maximum power of 20 kW (27 hp) and maximum torque of 100 Nm; AMG engine cover in genuine carbon fibre, AMG rear axle differential lock, AMG spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre, red-painted callipers, AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA), AMG forged light-alloy wheels, AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted matt black, rim flange with a high-sheen finish, AMG performance suspension, AMG ceramic high-performance compound brake system, AMG Exterior Carbon package (cross strut in front apron, exterior mirror housings and spoiler lip in genuine carbon fibre), AMG Performance Media with telemetry function, AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA.
To mark the launch of the new SL 63 AMG, AMG Performance studio is going to launch a special edition model of the vehicle, called “Edition 1” model. The “Edition 1” includes the following as standard: AIRSCARF neck-level heating, AMG forged light-alloy wheels, painted matt black, rim flange with a high-sheen finish, AMG Performance package, Exclusive leather in classic red or deep white with contrasting topstitching, headliner in black leather, harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system, MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic vario-roof.
The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG will be launched in May 2012.
Maserati plan to make a premiere of their new GranTurismo Sport at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show this year. It will be a replacement for the current GranTurismo S. The thing is, the company wants us to think it’s new but what we actually have here is a restyled interior, a new bumper and a revisited engine.
Supposedly the new front bumper “optimizes” airflow even further by scooping larger amounts of air to cool the brakes and engine. The front lights employ a new style and house DRL LED lights to keep up with the competition while the taillights are a but faded. Interior changes have also been made – redesigned seats and a sporty steering wheel. We just hope that by sporty they mean less buttons and controls and more.. well.. steering wheel.
Most probably the most meaningful update is that of the 4.7l V8 which now develops 10 more (460 bhp) horsepower. It’s not groundbreaking but one can never have enough, right?
Maserati GranTurismo SportMaserati GranTurismo Sport
The Spanish company GTA Motor hasn’t got much street cars to offer. Yet, it will again take part in the 82nd edition of the Geneva Motor Show with the GTA Spano. This time, they say that the car is production ready and will be availble to customers late this year.
Only 99 models will be produced so expect highest levels of exclusivity. It will have its own V10 8.3 liter engine which develops the claimed 820 hp and 980 Nm of torque. A time for 0 to 100 km/h sprints – 2.9, Top speed – 350 km/h or so they say. The chassis is a carbon fiber/titanium/Kevlar mix which sounds really light … and expensive as well.
And if the engine is not a party piece enough, there’s also an innovative panoramic roof with integrated lighting and an opaqueness system. All very interesting stuff. Excited about the show now?
Alfa Romeo might not have much cars to show on the 2012 Geneva Auto Show (they have only two production vehicles at the moment) but they are betting on technology and choice. There will be four Giulietta models and three Mitto cars taking the stand. Some of them will feature the Fiat group 0.9 TwinAir Turbo “International engine of the year 2011”, many will be coupled with the Alfa TCT (double clutched transmission) and will also feature Distinctive and Quadrifoglio Verde trim levels.
Alfa Giulietta
Thanks to the TCT feature, a 1.4 TB MultiAir 170 HP Giulietta has the best efficiency-performance ratio in its category. It is basically a twin clutch automatic gearbox setup which allows downshifting or upshifting with either a gear lever or paddles behind the wheel. On top of that, one can further optimize the Giulietta’s road manners with Alfa’s DNA dynamic selector – a master switch of all the systems in the car. Have it on Dynamic and get ready to cut some apexes with vigor. Normal mode on the other hand provides you with an everyday driving set up and All-weather mode is for rainy or snowy surfaces with poor grip. Despite being capable of reaching 100km/h in 7.7 seconds, the Giulietta TCT MultiAir returns 5.2 l/100km in the combined cycle and emits 121 g/km of CO2
Props also go to another Giulietta TCT which harbors a 170 HP 2.0 JTDM diesel engine. It does the 100km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds but offers even more economy – 4.5 l/100 km and 119 g/km of carbon dioxide emissions. To prove highlight the role of the TCT in these figures, Alfa say that the same car with a manual does 4.7 l/100 km and 125 g/km.
A somewhat less powerful 120 HP Giulietta Distinctive 1.4 Turbo will also be present to restore equilibrium after the fury that will be the fourth Giulietta – 235 HP 1750 TBi Quadrifoglio Verde. That flagship trooper can shred its own tires with 340 Nm of torque as early as 1,900 rpm.
Alfa Romeo Giulietta (QV)
Alfa Mitto
The Mitto niche will be represented by three member – the 0.9 TwinAir Turbo that has only two cylinders yet delivers a maximum of 85 HP at 5,500 rpm and a torque of 145 Nm at 2,000 rpm. Basically this drivetrain, thanks to its cleverness, is capable of producing more torque and be cleaner and less thirstier than any other engine rated with that same power. This little bumble bee also comes with the Alfa DNA system and a Stop & Start function which helps with the urban frugality.
The not-so-conscious about fuel economy can find paradise somewhere else. Why not start with the Mitto Quadrifoglio Verde with Alfa Active Suspension? It is all very complicated underneath – The suspension interacts with the braking system and steering to obtain more effective control of the dynamics of the vehicle or in other words it is a damn good fun this car. Only Alfas capable putting a smile on one’s face go under the Quadrifoglio Verde name. Noticeable differences from a stock model hide in and out. For example the rear-view mirror covers, the headlight and light cluster frames and the handles come with an exclusive satinised chrome material; a new sporty seat with a central part made of Alcantara. Things on the options list include 18” alloy wheels and sporty Sabelt seats with carbon fiber woven backrests.
Under the hood, a 170 HP 1.4 MultiAir Turbo works its magic while we need to remember that this is the light and nimble Mitto we are talking about – 6.7 kg per a single horsepower, 0 to 100 km/h is done in just over 7 seconds.
Last but not least, there will be a Mitto fitted with the same TCT equipment that comes with the Giulietta models. The engine is still 1.4 but with reduced power output and a Stop & Start system – a well rounded mid-range car with some extraordinary technology inside.
Lancia will be bringing a touch of luxury and elegance to the 82nd Geneva Motor Show with six vehicles at their booth. It is a sort of a reincarnation for the company as it has had a glorious history, then a bit of a decline and now it’s back. Highlights deserve the B segment Ypsilon, the flagship Thema, the Voyager MPV and the not yet released Flavia Cabrio.
Lancia Flavia Cabrio
Yes, the Geneva Show will be a debut for the production version of the Flavia Cabrio – For now the setup destined for this convertible is a 175 HP 2.4 l unit mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It will be generously equipped with an electronic stability control system, traction control, ABS (naturally), climate control and much much more in the sole trim package offered, baring the name “all inclusive”. At the show, the Flavia Cabrio segment will be represented by two models: one distinguished by a sophisticated Bright White body with interiors in two-tone black/white fine leather and the other characterized by an exterior Mineral Grey paint with black leather interiors.
Lancia Flavia Cabrio (2012)
Lancia Thema AWD
The Thema AWD is basically a Chrysler 300C underneath but is that a bat thing? It has a clever four-wheel drive system and is driven by an aluminum, 286 HP Pentastar V6 3.6 engine. Throw in an 8-speed automatic transmission developed by ZF and you have yourself a perfectly good executive saloon. What image does the Thema radiate? That is pretty much up to the buyer – the car can be customized with several exclusive products, among which are the 18” and 20” rims and three grilles having different colors and treatments.
Lancia Thema AWD (2012)
Lancia Ypsilon
A refreshed 2012 Ypsilon will also be present there – we are talking about new equipment and styling enhancements. The now 5th Ypsilon meets the “Blue&Me–TomTomLIVE” and “Smart fuel” system”. Furthermore it has Magic Parking, a 500 W 360° Hi-Fi Music system, Xenon headlights and LED taillights.
As a car and not a Playstation, the Ypsilon will also feature a range of drivetrains which come with TwinAir technology or MultiJet II and Start & Stop. All very green stuff really.
The Ypsilon presentation will also foresee the arriving of the Black&Red trim level in all European markets. Again, we have a wide range of drivetrains – a 69 HP 1.2 Fire EVO II, a 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir and a 95 HP 1.3 Multijet II turbodiesel engine. The Black&Red is targeted to the younger generation which will be enchanted by the 360° Hi-Fi Music system, 15″ alloy rims and the tinted windows. Body colors are said to be four but they are frankly shades of black and red while inside we have one choice…. black and red.
Lancia Ypsilon
Lancia Voyager
At the show, the Lancia Voyager will get two new trim levels – Silver and Platinum. Two new colors (Cashmere Pearl and True Blue) will also be made available. The Premium one displayed at the boot will boas some Alcantra from the inside and it will harbor a 163 HP 2.8L turbo diesel.
This year, at the 2012 edition of Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep brand will make an European premiere for the Jeep Grand CherokeeConcept. The vehicle combines exceptional exterior design and sporty appearance combined with the efficiency of the 3.0-litre V-6 CRD engine with Multijet II. Another car to be showcased to the public in Geneva is the new concept version of Jeep Compass model. Another debut, this time only for the European market, will make the new Jeep Wrangler Mountain, which is the new limited edition model of the iconic Wrangler.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept and the Jeep Compass Concept will show the direction in which the Jeep lineup will evolve in 2012. The first one, the Grand Cherokee Concept offers a unique and aggressive flair with exclusive styling cues. Furthermore, it carries an innovative efficient 3.0-litre V-6 turbo-diesel engine with Multijet II technology and delivers 241 hp of power and 550 Nm of torque (190 hp and 440 Nm of torque with the available low-output version of the 3.0-litre). The new sports concept has unique exterior with distinctive design and a lot of Black accents. This streamlined appearance is achieved thanks to the introduction of new roof molding covers that replace the roof rack. The vehicle’s grille surround is in gloss black, and mesh grille texture is in Platinum Chrome. The vehicle sits on 20-inch tires that surround one-of-a-kind Black-gloss aluminum wheels. In addition, there are also black chrome dual exhaust tips included. The interior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept is improved by a leather-wrapped perforated heated steering wheel and ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather and suede seats. To go further into details, the vehicle is powered by the efficient 3.0-litre V-6 turbo-diesel engine with new-generation, 1.800-bar injectors and Multijet II technology. Thank to it, the car can develop maximum power of 177 kW (241 hp) at 4,000 rpm and torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,800-2,800 rpm. All this is paired to the five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). The 3.0-litre CRD powertrain is also offered in a low-output version, with 140 kW (190 hp) of power at 4,000 rpm and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque across 1,600-2,800 rpm. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with the sophisticated Quadra-Trac II® 4×4 system with two-speed transfer case and Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) on both the front and rear axle. This ensures the off-road capability. Ultimate off-road capabilities are accomplished through the assistance of standard Hill Descent Control (for maximum downhill control) and Hill Start Assist (granting a smooth launch on a grade). Furthermore, the equipment for on-board comfort and infotainment offers the latest technology: UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inches touchscreen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port, DVD video and voice activated Bluethooth UConnect Phone, audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon®. Next, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept offers a huge array of advanced safety and security features: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM), ABS with off-road calibration, Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) and 7 airbags (front seat, sidebags, side-curtain front and rear, seat-mounted), Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-path detection.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept
On the second vehicle – Jeep Compass Concept includes unique Black exterior treatment that delivers a different personality to the compact SUV Jeep. This new look on the exterior includes a number of styling cues and functional elements featuring exclusive black-gloss front-end accents, step pad and 18-inch aluminium wheels. Furthermore, the iconic, seven-slot Jeep front grille boasts black-gloss inserts. The roof rails and step pads also received black-gloss treatment. Next, special 18-inch black–gloss aluminium wheels reinforce the look of the vehicle. The interior of the vehicle is equipped with leather seats, which deliver a touch of exclusiveness to the cabin. The four-wheel-drive configuration of the Jeep Compass Concept is matched to a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine. It develops 163 hp (120 kW) of power and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. A system called active Freedom Drive I is designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions as well as slick roads. The Jeep model also includes diverse equipment: 368-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system with 9 speakers, voice-activated Bluetooth UConnect® Phone with UCI interface and UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5” touch screen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port and DVD player. Jeep Compass also includes a lot of safety and security features: advanced multi-stage front airbags, side-curtain front and rear air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Assist, Brake Traction Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with rough-road detection and the sophisticated Hill Start Assist system.
Jeep Compass Concept
The third exclusive premiere which is expected to be seen in Geneva, is the special edition Jeep Wrangler Mountain. This new limited-edition model of the iconic Wrangler pays tribute to outdoor enthusiasts and it is showcased in an all-new Gecko body-color. It is equipped with unique exterior and interior design improved by exclusive styling cues, 17-inch wheels and authentic accessories by Mopar®. The new Mountain edition pays tribute to those who actively practice the outdoors. To be more precise, Jeep Wrangler Mountain is based on the Wrangler Sport model. It will be available with two-and four-door versions. The exterior is absolutely adorable and includes unique Black decal on the hood, front Mineral Gray grille and painted high-gloss Mineral Gray 17-inch wheels. Additional features are the ‘Mountain’ decal over part of the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates side steps and black fuel-filler door from Mopar. The interior is as exclusive as the exterior: it features fabric seats with Slate Grey stitching and embroidered ‘Mountain logo’. Mopar treatment in the cabin consists of tread-pattern slush mats. Additional exterior colors to the all-new Gecko are also available: Black, Bright White, Dozer and Black Forrest Green. Further specifications about the vehicle is that it is powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine producing 200 hp (147) at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque at 1,600-2,600 rpm paired to a five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). In addition, the diesel engine can be also equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. More importantly, available on the new special edition model is the new 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine, which delivers 284 horsepower DIN (209 kW) and 347 Nm (256 lb-ft) of torque and is matched to the automatic five-speed transaxle with ERS. Furthermore, Jeep Wrangler Mountain includes an enhanced Dana 30 front axle and enhanced Dana 44 rear axle. That which enhances its Jeep off-road capability is the standard Command-Trac® NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. The equipment featured in the car comprises in: leather-wrapped steering-wheel with integrated controls, Dual Top configuration, Uconnect® multimedia infotainment, new Winter & Sound Group package, including front heated seats and 368-watt, 6-speaker Infinity audio system.
Jeep Wrangler Mountain
The Jeep brand aims to offer only styling, functionality, craftsmanship and the highest capability. Every Jeep vehicle delivers an open invitation to all customers, who want to live life to the fullest by offering a feeling of security to handle any journey with confidence.
Alpina has announced the new boosted 2012 B5 Bi-Turbo. The sports saloon comes with more power, better acceleration and performance and improved fuel efficiency.
Volkswagen has announced the new Caddy Match Special Edition, which is already available at the UK market. The pricing starts at £14 110 for the entry level Caddy Match 1.6 litre TDI 75PS and goes up to £17 960 for the Caddy Maxi Match 2.0 litre TDI 140PS.
The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL is the world’s first electric van, which is now eligible for the Government’s new Plug-In Van Grant, reducing costs by 20%. There are several regulations needed to be fulfilled like emitting less than 75g/km CO2, be capable of at least 60 miles (100 km) between charges and a top speed of more than 50mph (80 km/h).
Maserati plan to make a premiere of their new GranTurismo Sport at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show this year. It will be a replacement for the current GranTurismo S. The thing is, the company wants us to think it’s new but what we actually have here is a restyled interior, a new bumper and a revisited engine.
The Spanish company GTA Motor hasn’t got much street cars to offer. Yet, it will again take part in the 82nd edition of the Geneva Motor Show with the GTA Spano. This time, they say that the car is production ready and will be availble to customers late this year.
Alfa Romeo might not have much cars to show on the 2012 Geneva Auto Show (they have only two production vehicles at the moment) but they are betting on technology and choice. There will be four Giulietta models and three Mitto cars taking the stand. Some of them will feature the Fiat group 0.9 TwinAir Turbo “International engine of the year 2011”, many will be coupled with the Alfa TCT (double clutched transmission) and will also feature Distinctive and Quadrifoglio Verde trim levels.
Lancia will be bringing a touch of luxury and elegance to the 82nd Geneva Motor Show with six vehicles at their booth. It is a sort of a reincarnation for the company as it has had a glorious history, then a bit of a decline and now it’s back. Highlights deserve the B segment Ypsilon, the flagship Thema, the Voyager MPV and the not yet released Flavia Cabrio.
