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  • BMW X3 xDrive28i and BMW X5 M Sport Edition

    BMW has announced the X3 xDrive28i, which is powered by the new twin-turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder petrol engine with superb power and torque. The manufacturer will also launch the M Sport Edition of the BMW X5 aimed to satisfy the most demanding customers of the luxury SAVs.

    Furthermore, the choice of optionally available driver assistance systems featured by BMW ConnectedDrive is being further extended for the BMW X3.

    2012 BMW X3 xDrive28i boasts 245PS (180 kW) and incredible 350Nm (258 lb-ft) at just 1250RPM meaning that pressing gas pedal, your body will be pressed to the seat immediately. The technology package employed in this engine comprises a supercharging system operating according to the Twin Scroll principle, High Precision Injection with direct fuel injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve control and double VANOS variable camshaft control.

    The performance suits more to a sports car from medium class, instead of a crossover – 6.7 seconds to 100 km/h, which is 0.2 faster than the predecessor model. The fuel consumption is also cut to 7.5 liters per 100 km in the EU test cycle and a CO2 emission level of 175 g/km.

    The new power unit comes as standard paired with ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox. The intelligent four-wheel drive system BMW xDrive with electronically controlled and variable power distribution between the front and real wheels provides optimum transfer of torque to the road and off-road terrain.

    Moreover, in future, all BMW X3 model variants will be equipped as standard with the Driving Experience Control feature. At the press of a button located on the centre console next to the gearshift lever or gear selector lever respectively, the driver is able to vary the vehicle setting. There is a choice between the “COMFORT”, “SPORT” and “SPORT+” modes as well as the ECO PRO mode. Driving Experience Control has an effect on the settings of the stability control function DSC, the characteristic maps of the accelerator pedal and Servotronic power steering and, depending on how the vehicle is equipped, also the gearshift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the control map of the Dynamic Damper Control system.

    2012 BMW X3 xDrive28i
    2012 BMW X3 xDrive28i

    In the spring of 2012, the BMW X5 model range will be boosted by a M Performance Automobile, which in addition to a 383PS (281kW) diesel power plant with innovative three-stage turbocharging, also features an M-specific suspension setting and a particularly impressive and aerodynamically optimised design. Simultaneously with the market launch of the BMW X5 M50d, the new M Sport Edition will be offered for all further model variants. It contributes effectively towards a further enhancement of the supremely powerful and agile characteristics of the Sports Activity Vehicle, thereby also emphasising its visual qualities.

    The M Sport Edition comprises M exterior features for optimising air guidance, 20-inch M light alloys including tyre mix, BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line, Xenon lights (standard on the BMW X5 xDrive50i and the BMW X5 xDrive40d) and Adaptive Cornering Headlights. The BMW X5 xDrive50i is also equipped with pneumatic rear wheel suspension including automatic levelling. For all other model variants, the M Sport Edition offers a sporty suspension setting.

    The sporting ambience in the interior is emphasised by the M leather-clad steering wheel with shift paddles, BMW Individual anthracite roof lining, BMW Individual interiors trim strips in black piano lacquer, doorsills boasting the M logo, stainless steel pedals and the M footrest for the driver. The M Sport Edition also includes electrically adjustable sports seats. The new M Alcantara/Black Nappa leather combination is available exclusively in conjunction with the M Sport Edition.

    Over and above that, the range of special equipment for the BMW X5 will in future also include the optional heated steering wheel in conjunction with the M leather-clad steering wheel. From the spring of 2012, the colour variant Orion Silver metallic will be available as a new exterior paint finish.

    Source: BMW

  • SR Scion IQ Project

    SRauto-Scion-IQ-thumbInterestingly enough, another custom company has undertaken a Toyota IQ project. Well, when we say Toyota we actually mean a Scion. And, yes, last week was an Aston Martin but this is all just badge talk. So today we have the SR autogroup made IQ – sporty, aggressive and with big wheels.

    For a body kit, SR have chosen Fiveaxis components. They account for the front lip, side skirts, rear lip, and the roof spoiler. But a body kit does not look complete if it isn’t almost grinding on the ground. So that is why we also have a set of Tein lowering springs which, according to SR, do not in any way compromise performance and ride comfort.

    An overall custom look is achieved only when we add four matte black 17-inch Sparco wheels held by titanium red lug bolts. We are not sure why they have to be titanium but they look great as a contrasting agent. Does it work for you?

    SR Scion IQ (2012)
    SR Scion IQ (2012)

    Source: SR autogroup

  • Arden Range Rover Evoque

    Arden-Range-Rover-Evoque-thumb“Auto Motor und Sport” is one of the well known automotive magazines in Germany and recently its readers voted the Range Rover Evoque as the most popular import SUV in the country. That is good news for Arden, a tuning house based in Germany that has more than 40 years of experience with British carmakes. Naturally, now they have introduced some enhancements for the Evoque which will give that extra character a good SUV deserves.

    In a frontal view, the Arden Evoque makes an impression with its new, handmade, stainless steel mesh grill that has the company’s typical patterns. A party piece further back is the addition of illuminated side stainless steel pipes. They have been specially designed for the Evoque and subsequently they fit perfectly. You can use a remote control to turn them on for that instant glamor and functionality as well – light can come in handy when getting in or out.

    Sadly the Arden Evoque won’t be too fit for off-roading for the springs are also of a special kind – the 30mm lower kind – while that might be viewed as a slight disadvantage, it does give the SUV an attractive road stance.

    It’s not all shell decorations with the Arden people. The Evoque’s 2.2 Diesel engine has underwent an ECU tweak with an end result of 30 hp more power and 50 Nm additional torque. That may not sound a lot but it will certainly be felt at low and medium engine speeds.

    Arden Range Rover Evoque
    Arden Range Rover Evoque
    Arden Range Rover Evoque
    Arden Range Rover Evoque
    Arden Range Rover Evoque
    Arden Range Rover Evoque

    Source: Arden

  • Vorsteiner Rolls-Royce Ghost [Teaser]

    Vorsteiner-Rolls-Ghost-thumbVorsteiner have undertaken an ambitious project and have released a bit of a teaser. It will be the Rolls Royce Ghost that’s going under the knife. But , in true spirit of the ultra-executive, the company intends to keep it simple and clean. In fact nothing is to be replaced but rather clipped on.

    The end goal for Vorsteinier is to add a great deal of functionality and a little bit of character. That’s why the Ghost here gets some additional downforce by a front spoiler with a replaceable splitter chin. Supposedly further back there will be side skirts blade attachments with integrated wing elements. (although they don’t seem to be present in this picture, but it is, after all, a teaser). Then at the back end, one would find that there is going to be a carbon fiber rear decklid spoiler and a diffuser at the bottom (not a replacement part but an add-on). All of the body kit components are made trough an Autoclave pre-preg carbon fiber technology that guarantees durability and strength.

    It all looks and sound very subtle indeed. The one thing sticking out in the Vorsteiner Ghost however, will be the massive 24-inch 3-Piece forged aluminum wheels that barely leave room for tires under the arches. Plans are to release the program this Summer.

    Vorsteiner Rolls Royce Ghost
    Vorsteiner Rolls Royce Ghost

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • 2012 Mazda CX-5 – Price £21 395

    Mazda has announced the new 2013 CX-5 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, last year. The all new vehicle is now available on the UK market with a competitive price starting from £21 395 and rising to £28 795 OTR.

    The engine range offers a 2.0 litre SKYACTIV 165PS petrol and 2.2 litre SKYACTIV 150PS or 175PS diesel variants. All are offered with either manual or automatic transmissions, 2WD or AWD, and four equipment levels – SE-L, SE-L Nav, Sport and Sport Nav.

    Depending on model, the all-new Mazda CX-5 will return a fuel consumption figure of 61.4 to 47.0mpg (combined cycle) and achieve remarkably low CO2 emissions for a compact SUV of 119 to 144g/km.  With a rating of 119g/km the Mazda CX-5 150ps diesel 2WD model is significantly below the class average of 147g/km measured across 11 rivals.

    The standard equipment (SE-L) includes 17” alloy wheels, front fog lights, dual‑zone climate control air-conditioning, Smart City Brake Support and privacy glass, plus front and rear parking sensors.  Moving up the CX-5 range, Sport grade models will feature 19-inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with Active Front Lighting System, full leather trim, heated front seats, powered driver’s seat and a reversing camera.

    While production for the UK market is likely to be limited this year, Mazda has established a pre-ordering facility that will enable customers to order a Mazda CX-5 via their local dealership, allowing them to become one of the first customers to own a vehicle featuring SKYACTIV technology.

    2013 Mazda CX-5
    2013 Mazda CX-5

    Mazda CX-5 / Price List – February 2012

    2WD SKYACTIV-G ‘On the road’
    Retail
    CO2
    (g/km)
    RFL
    Band
    Insurance
    Group
    P11D
    Value
    Annual BIK
    20 / 40%
    2.0 SE-L £21,395 139 E TBD 17% £722 / £1,443
    2.0 SE-L NAV £21,795 139 E TBD 17% £735 / £1,471
    2.0 Sport £23,595 139 E TBD 17% £796 / £1,593
    2.0 Sport NAV £23,995 139 E TBD 17% £810 / £1,620
    2WD SKYACTIV-D
    2.2 SE-L (150) £22,995 119 C TBD 13% £596 / £1,193
    2.2 SE-L NAV (150) £23,395 119 C TBD 13% £607 / £1,214
    2.2 SE-L Auto (150) £24,295 139 E TBD 20% £965 / £1,930
    2.2 SE-L NAV Auto (150) £24,695 139 E TBD 20% £981 / £1,962
    2.2 Sport (150) £25,195 119 C TBD 13% £654 / £1,307
    2.2 Sport NAV (150) £25,595 119 C TBD 13% £664 / £1,328
    AWD SKACTIV-D
    2.2 SE-L (150) £24,695 136 E TBD 20% £981 / £1,962
    2.2 SE-L NAV (150) £25,095 136 E TBD 20% £997 / £1,994
    2.2 SE-L Auto (150) £25,895 144 F TBD 21% £1,080 / £2,160
    2.2 SE-L NAV Auto (150) £26,295 144 F TBD 21% £1,097 / £2,193
    2.2 Sport (175) £27,195 136 E TBD 20% £1,081 / £2,162
    2.2 Sport NAV (175) £27,595 136 E TBD 20% £1,097 / £2,194
    2.2 Sport Auto (175) £28,395 144 F TBD 21% £1,185 / £2,370
    2.2 Sport NAV Auto (175) £28,795 144 F TBD 21% £1,202 / £2,403

    NB‘On the road’ prices include 20.0% VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years European Roadside Assistance.

    All models are available with free 7-day drive away insurance.

    Source: Mazda

  • Twingo Renaultsport R2 Evo

    Justin Dale and -driver Andrew Bargery will drive a Twingo Renaultsport R2 Evolution on the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Championship. The race car is based on the successful 1.6 litre model, but it doesn’t have many familiarities. The road going car is entirely modified to meet all rally regulations.

    Dale has already complimented the Twingo, having driven Pajunen’s car at a sponsor’s day last year and the R1 variant at this year’s BRC Media Day. He and Bargery will team up after last contesting the BRC in a Clio in 2006 to showcase the new Twingo R2 Evo, which will make its UK debut on the Dorset & Hampshire based event.

    Renault UK’s recent registration to this year’s British Manufacturers Rally Championship and the new Twingo Renaultsport Trophy coupled with around a third of the entries on this year’s opening round, underlines the French marque’s commitment to UK rallying.

    “We are keen to show off the new Evo version of the Twingo R2 and evaluate its performance on gravel. The British Rally Championship’s move to a two wheel drive formula is important to Renault and we intend to be at the forefront with our range of cars,” commented Renault Sport Technologies Sales Manager Jean-Pascal Jocou, who will attend the event to keep an eye on not only Dale’s progress, but all the Renault competitors.

    Rallye Sunseeker International starts on Poole Quay on Friday 24th February at 18.00hrs with stages throughout Saturday in the forests north of Bournemouth.

    Twingo Renaultsport R2 Evo
    Twingo Renaultsport R2 Evo

    Source: Renault

  • Hyundai Sonata featured in the 2012 Greener Choices List

    2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid  thumbAccording to “Greener Choices List” for 2012, Hyundai Sonata was recognized for seventh year in a row by the creator of the list, namely – the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE). In addition, the Sonata will be featured in the ACEEE’s Green Book® Online, which resembles an annual consumers’ guide to environmentally-friendly cars and trucks. This is a great acknowledgement for the vehicle and given that it is given to it for the seventh time, makes the model a class-leading car in fuel-efficiency. In addition, the Sonata offers class-above interior volume compared to its key competitors and provides the best fuel economy in the EPA Large Car segment with the exceptional 28 mpg combined fuel economy rating. The “Greener Choices” list is restricted to widely available gasoline-powered cars and light trucks with automatic transmissions. In this way it highlights the widespread availability of environmentally friendly vehicle choices in many segments of the market.

    Furthermore the 2012 Hyundai Sonata achieves even more fuel economy. In addition it incorporates more thoughtful and convenient technology, and includes features which are improving the drivers experience from the vehicle. For instance, the Blue Link®, which is a full-service telematics offering, delivers information and access, which were never before found in a Hyundai. What is more in the Sonata, is the large seven-inch touchscreen navigation with HD Radio Technology®. There is also featured a full panoramic sunroof which offers additional amenities within an already well-equipped vehicle.

    2012 Hyundai Sonata
    2012 Hyundai Sonata

    Source: Hyundai

  • 2012 Ford B-MAX to Debut at Mobile World Congress

    Ford_B-MAX Ford Motor Company executive chairman Bill Ford will unveil for the first time the all-new 2012 Ford B-MAX on 27th of February at the 2012 Mobile World Congress, which takes place in Barcelona. Ford actually is going to be the first manufacturer, which will present a car for the first time at the leading mobile industry event. In addition, the there will be also announced significant new technologies for Europe, which will be featured for the first time in the new B-MAX. As Ford promises, these innovations, will make the vehicle one of the continent’s most technologically advanced small cars. Bill Ford also will become the first automotive leader who will make a keynote speech at MWC. There, he will discuss the company’s vision for mobility in the future, which has the aim to explore the potential for mobile technology and vehicles to play more integrated roles. B-MAX will raise the bar for small vehicles in Europe, with the combination of technology and premium engineering into a compact frame vehicle. Later this year, on 6th of March at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, Ford President and CEO Alan Mulally will introduce the B-MAX to the automotive world.

    2012 Ford B-MAX
    2012 Ford B-MAX

    B-MAX is a promising new vehicle, which will bring a unique Easy Access Door System with central body pillars integrated into the sliding rear doors to provide unrivalled access for passengers and luggage. Moreover, it will be powered by a versatile engine range, which will include the new 1.0-litre 120PS EcoBoost petrol engine and the 1.6-litre TDCi diesel engine. Both are expected to offer class-leading fuel economy and CO2 emissions.

    2012 Ford B-MAX with unique Easy Access Door System
    2012 Ford B-MAX with unique Easy Access Door System

    Source: Ford

  • 2012 Citroen DS4 Just Mat Limited Edition

    CITROTN_DS4_Just_Mat_Thumb2012 Citroen DS4 Just Mat is the first limited series based on the second model in the DS model line. This is a limited edition version which, to be more precise comes, nine months after the official release of the CITROËN DS4. Moreover it is based on the Sport Chic finish with an original body colour, named Hickory Mat Brown.

    In particular, the DS4 was launched last year in May 2011 and since then got circa 30,000 orders. It is undeniably an appealing raised four-door coupé, which combines the elegance and compactness of the coupe, with the versatility and space of a compact saloon. The new limited series are based on the same approach; however they are additionally based on the Sport Chic trim. Like the DS3 Matière Grise and DS3 Série Noire limited versions, the new 2012 CITROËN DS4 Just MAt has now the same Hickory Mat Brown bodywork, with colour-coordinated door rubbing strips and exterior door mirror housings. This limited edition sits on 19” Cairns alloy wheels and has xenon dual-function directional headlights.

    2012 Citroen DS4 Just Mat Limited Edition
    2012 Citroen DS4 Just Mat Limited Edition

    The limited series of 2012 Citroen DS4 Just Mat will be produced in only 500 units. This automatically leads to the consequence that there is also a lot of attention put in the interior of the car. The interior design features leather Club Habana upholstery, including the ‘watch bracelet’, which is a design specific to the DS line. In addition, the vehicle gains the eMyWay navigation system.

    The CITROËN DS4 Just Mat ships with the THP 200 or HDi 160 engine, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Prices start at €34,950.

    Source: Citroen

  • BMW xDrive – World’s Most Intelligent AWD System

    BMW xDrive is claimed to be the world’s most intelligent all-wheel-drive system. It was firstly introduced back in 2003 with the previous BMW X3 (E83). Since then, it has been offered with X1, X3, X5 and X6 as standard and in 3-Series (E90,F30), 5-Series (E60, F10) and the latest 7-Series (F01) as an option.

    The xDrive system helps providing perfect traction at any driving conditions. It works just perfectly no matter you drive your BMW at snow, rain, mud or dry asphalt.

    The world’s most intelligent all-wheel-drive system operates by using data from the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) sensors and from the gas pedal. It continuously monitors the car’s driving condition and when wheel spin is detected, the electronically controlled multidisc clutch (situated at the rear end of the gearbox) reacts immediately to transfer drive force wherever is needed – front or rear axle. Everything happens in only few milliseconds so drivers can hardly feel it. The system optimizes the torque split based on the available traction. Furthermore, brakes can be applied as needed to prevent unnecessary wheel spin. As you may suggest, the xDrive is connected to the ABS and DSC systems.

    2008 BMW X6 xDrive50i
    2008 BMW X6 xDrive50i

    The xDrive doesn’t have limited slip differentials, so it relies on brake application by the DSC system to transfer power from the slipping wheel to the wheel with traction.

    The most fascinating thing about xDrive is that the driver can enjoy all the advantages of rear drive like precise control, neutral cornering behavior and a good separation between the operation and management.

    In normal driving conditions, the xDrive sends 60% of the torque to the rear axle and 40% to the front. However, it can draw up to 100% of power to either front or rear axle.

    Remember to keep the DSC system always on, which will guarantee supreme safety combined with the xDrive. Still, in some cases, you can turn of the DSC system and to have a lot of fun the world’s most intelligent all-wheel-drive system – BMW xDrive!

  • 2012 Subaru XV TD Premium

    Subaru has recently announced the new XV, which is priced from €34 995. The vehicle is also the safest model in its class with certified 5 star Euro Ncap award for child occupant safety. It combines city style with urban and offroad ability.

    2012 XV comes with Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive and unique Boxer Diesel engine ensuring the satisfaction of all driver’s needs. Whether for business or pleasure, the Subaru XV is well capable whatever the weather.

    All models marketed by Subaru Ireland come with the reassurance of a three year or 160,000 kilometres warranty, plus twelve year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.  This is in addition to three year’s membership of Subaru Assist – a comprehensive home and roadside repair and recovery package throughout Ireland and Europe administered by Mapfre Asistencia.

    Check out the full specs, below!

    2012 Subaru XV TD Premium
    2012 Subaru XV TD Premium
    Standard Specification 2.0TD XV
    Premium
    Exterior
    Auto on/off headlamps + DRL S
    HID lights S
    Pop-up type headlamp washers S
    Front fog lamps S
    Rear fog lamp S
    Power-folding door mirrors with built-in LED turn signals S
    UV protection glass; Windshield, front and rear side windows S
    Variable intermittent windshield wipers (Designed blade) S
    Privacy Glass S
    Intermittent rear window wiper S
    17″ aluminium alloy wheels S
    Side claddings S
    Power sliding, tilt-adjustable glass sunroof Optional Extra
    Carrier installation brackets S
    Roof spoiler S
    Roof antenna S
    Seating / Trims
    Leather wrapped steering wheel and gearshift knob S
    Leather seats Optional Extra
    6-way manual adjustable driver’s seat S
    Front seat heaters S
    60/40 split folding rear seats S
    Seat back pocket (front passenger side only) S
    Comfort / Convenience
    Electric windows (front & rear) S
    Remote control key system S
    Map lamps S
    Luggage space lamp S
    Vanity mirrors with lids (for driver and front passenger) S
    Centre tray S
    Centre console box S
    2 front cup holders (in the centre console) S
    Door pockets with bottle holders (on all side doors) S
    Interior fuel lid lock release S
    Two 12-volt power outlets (in the instrument panel and centre console box) S
    Cargo hooks S
    Luggage hooks S
    Retractable cargo cover S
    Box sub-trunk (under cargo storage) S
    Tyre repair kit S
    Climate control
    Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning system with anti-dust filter S
    Heater ducts for rear passengers S
    Windshield wiper de-icer S
    Automatic rain-sensing windshield wipers S
    Heated door mirrors S
    Front and side defrosters S
    Electric rear window defogger with timer S
    In-car Entertainment
    2-Din audio system with Bluetooth® system: 1-CD and 6 speakers S
    Steering wheel mounted audio remote control switches S
    Bluetooth® compatible hands-free system S
    USB and auxiliary audio input jack (in the centre console box) S
    Rear Vision Camera System S
    Control / Instruments
    High-Grade type Multi-Function Display S
    Shift up indicator S
    Tilt-adjustable / telescopic steering wheel S
    Cruise control S
    Drivability
    Vehicle Dynamics Control System S
    Hill Start Assist S
    Safety
    Front SRS airbags S
    Front side SRS airbags (for driver and front passenger) S
    Curtain SRS airbags (front, rear and both sides) S
    Knee SRS airbag S
    Side-door reinforcement beams (front and rear, both sides) S
    Steering column support beam S
    Whiplash reducing front seats S
    Rear seat headrests for 3 seating positions S
    Seatbelt indicator (for driver and all passengers) S
    Front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters S
    Height adjustable seatbelt anchors (for driver and front passenger) S
    Rear 3-point seatbelts for 3 seating positions S
    Safety pedal system S
    4-sensor/4-channel ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution S
    Brake assist system S
    Brake Override S
    ISO-FIX adapted child seat anchors (with tether anchors) S
    Child-proof rear door locking (both sides) S
    Anti-theft security system with engine immobiliser S
    Item SUBARU XV
    Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel-Drive)
    2.0TD-S Premium
    6MT
    ENGINE
    Type Horizontally-opposed, 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, turbocharged, diesel engine
    DOHC 16-valve
    Bore/Stroke mm 86/86
    Capacity cc 1,998
    Compression ratio 16
    Fuel system Common rail
    Fuel tank capacity lit. 60
    PERFORMANCE
    Max. output (DIN) kW (PS)/rpm 108 (147)/3,600
    Max. torque (DIN) Nm (kgfm)/rpm 350 (35.7)1/1,600 – 2,400
    Max. speed km/h 198
    Acceleration (0-100 km/h) sec. 9.3
    Fuel consumption Urban lit./100 km 6.8
    Extra-urban lit./100 km 5
    Combined lit./100 km 5.6
    CO2 emissions Urban g/km 179
    Extra-urban g/km 131
    Combined g/km 146
    DRIVETRAIN
    AWD type Centre differential gear coupled with viscous LSD
    DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT
    Overall length mm 4,450
    Overall width mm 1,780
    Overall height mm 1,570
    Wheelbase mm 2,635
    Track Front mm 1,525
    Rear mm 1,525
    Minimum road clearance (at kerb weight) mm 220
    Seating capacity persons 5
    Kerb weight kg 1,440
    Towing capacity kg 1,600
    TRANS-AXLE
    Gear ratio 1st 3.454
    2nd 1.750
    3rd 1.062
    4th 0.785
    5th 0.634
    6th 0.557
    Reverse 3.636
    Final drive axle ratio 4.111
    CHASSIS
    Steering Pinion-assist type electric power steering system
    Suspension Front MacPherson strut type
    (4-wheel independent) Rear Double wishbone type
    Minimum turning circle at tyre (radius) m 5.3
    Brakes Front Ventilated disc brakes
    Rear Disc brakes
    Tyre/wheel size 225/55R17, 17 x 7″ J

    Source: Subaru

  • Mazda Takeri concept car

    Mazda will exhibit its Takeri concept car for the first time in Europe at the Geneva International Motor Show, next month.  This is Mazda’s next-generation mid-sized saloon featuring unique i-ELOOP regenerative braking technology. It will also be joined by CX-5 compact crossover SUV and MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012.

    The Takeri Concept Car boasts Mazda’s KODO – Soul of Motion’ design theme, bringing a new level of strength and allure to saloon styling. It is truly remarkable even in stand-still position. The engine is also a new SKYACTIV-D diesel engine with a fuel-saving i-stop system and 6-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic gearbox.

    Furthermore, the Takeri is the first Mazda car to be equipped with i-ELOOP – short for “Intelligent Energy Loop”. It is advanced technology using regenerative braking system to convert kinetic energy to electricity during deceleration and stores it in an electric double-layer capacitor. The power is used to run the vehicle’s electric components, thereby reducing the load on the engine and increasing fuel economy by up to 10%. This contributes to the Mazda Takeri’s outstanding fuel economy, which is achieved at no sacrifice to performance or comfort.

    Mazda’s display at the 82nd Geneva International Motor Show will also showcase the company’s brand-new SKYACTIV technology as well as the full range of current models.  Press days are 6-7 March, and the show is open to the public from 8-18 March.

    Mazda Takeri Concept Car
    Mazda Takeri Concept Car

    Mazda’s exhibits at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

    Reference exhibits Mazda Takeri (European premiere)
    Mazda CX-5
    Mazda MX-5 Special Edition Spring 2012 (Premiere)
    Technology exhibits SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine
    SKYACTIV-G direct-injection petrol engine
    SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission
    SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission
    i-ELOOP regenerative braking system
    CX-5 ‘X-ray’ display
    Vehicles currently on sale Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda5, Mazda6, Mazda MX-5

    Source: Mazda