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  • 2012 Ford EcoSport

    2012 Ford EcoSport THUMBThe all-new 2012 Ford EcoSport will make its appearance in the heart of Asia’s car market at New Delhi Auto Expo 2012 this week. The new compact SUV will further is another vehicle offered by Ford for India, as well as in many other markets across the world. One is without a doubt that the all-new Ford EcoSport is modern and innovative. Moreover it is designed to combine best-in-class design, technology, quality and safety. Furthermore it is the latest One Ford global product which is going to be a key model for Ford, because of the company’s expanding presence in major worldwide growth markets, including India, Brazil and the ASEAN markets.

    The all-new 2012 Ford EcoSport was developed in South America at one of Ford’s product development centers. Of course the work on the vehicle was made in close conjunction with teams from Asia, Europe and North America in order to meet the needs of markets across the globe. Its genuine SUV confidence starts in the stability of the chassis, reinforced by the body’s robust build, high torsional stiffness and high levels of protection for its occupants. On the other hand its innovative design reduces the weight and ensures good fuel efficiency.

    2012 Ford EcoSport
    2012 Ford EcoSport

    The first thing that captures the attention is the modern and innovative look of the vehicle: its contemporary shape conveys confidence while combining refinement and dynamism in an intelligent and fresh-looking package. In addition it sports key SUV cues such as the confident stance, command driving position and signature spare wheel mounted on a swing-gate at the rear of the vehicle. Another benefit of the design is that the EcoSport has the appearance of a larger vehicle, while retaining the agility and practicality of a compact car. It features high ground clearance and integrated lower body cladding for robustness. Furthermore the back of the SUV is marked by a large rear window which wraps around to the sides and oblique shaped taillights. May be this is what gives the vehicle more sporty look.

    The all-new 2012 Ford EcoSport was designed in order to offer balanced performance on paved roads and off-road terrain. Hence, this is making the vehicle perfect for the urban customer who wants to escape the city.  This next-generation model delivers unique features and options to the future customers. To be more precise, the 2012 Ford Eco Sport offers new technology and features innovative equipment normally not found in this class of vehicle. Furthermore it is fuel efficient, which was the key factor in the development process of the SUV. The all-new Ford EcoSport has been designed to meet all safety standards in the various markets where it will be sold. This includes weight-optimization; highly resistant body, developed with advanced software and design tools; combination of zones aimed to absorb the forces of impact with an extremely rigid cell. Of course, Ford brand wouldn’t forget the quality – the all-new Ford EcoSport will deliver impressive levels of quality and craftsmanship, reflecting its new world-class design and engineering. At last low maintenance costs and great durability were also key objectives in the development process.

    2012 Ford EcoSport
    2012 Ford EcoSport

    The first preview of the 2012 Ford EcoSport will be at the 11th Annual Auto Expo in New Delhi – one of the world’s biggest automotive growth markets. In details, the new EcoSport was developed on Ford’s new global B-segment platform. The EcoSport has been a market phenomenon since it was launched in South America in 2003 as the region’s first affordable SUV, selling 700,000 vehicles in nine years. The success was due to the uniqueness of the segment and the popularization of the features that many consumers wanted. Moreover the all-new EcoSport will be produced at modern assembly plants generally in Brazil and India. The project was led by Ford’s Development Center in Camaçari, Brazil, which is one of the centers most specialized in the development of compact cars. Eventually, the new vehicle will be sold in nearly 100 markets worldwide.

    Ford has taken the challenge to conquer the Asian market. For instance, the EcoSport is the second of eight products slated to be launched in India by mid-decade. Moreover the new EcoSport will be produced in the integrated Chennai manufacturing facility which has been modified with an annual production capacity of 200,000 units and is now positioned as a Ford regional centre. Additionally, Ford EcoSport models will be also produced at the plant for export to international markets.

    Source: Ford

  • Pathfinder Concept Update – New Videos

    We talked about this near the end of last year. It’s the Nissan Pathfinder Concept set to appear on the NAIAS 2012 in Detroit next week. Now, new videos have been posted to keep the excitement alive.

    Design is the focus of the Pathfinder Concept, Nissan say – sleek and slippery exterior with a roomy and clever interior that has seating for seven and more-than-enough cargo space. The idea of it is to predispose us to the forthcoming next generation Pathfinder which is set to enter production in Autumn this year.

    Nissan Pathfinder Concept
    Nissan Pathfinder Concept

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNtk5Vxc1IU

    Source: Nissan

  • Mitsubishi Shogun SG4 Black Edition

    The newest Mitsubishi Shogun (12MY) has been largely successful on the UK market since its launch so now the company has released a special edition to spice up the product range – Say hello to the Mitsubishi Shogun SG4, Black (long wheel-based)

    It’s been on sale since the 1st of January with prices starting at £42,999 (£1,000 more than the standard SG4). The colour schemes for the Shogun Black are the ones which can be found on the standard SG4: Frost White, Cool Silver, Pearl Black, Orient Red and Granite Brown. However, for that extra one grand you get some exclusivity with a satin black styling kit (suddenly the term Black makes sense). It manifests itself in black 20 inch alloy wheels, a black roof, spoiler, wing mirrors, grille and headlight bezels. The door handles, fog light nests and side steps are all also in black.

    Since it is based on the SG4, we still get the refined 3.2 Di-D diesel unit which develops 197bhp and some mesmerizing 441Nm of torque. So if, let’s say a mountain needs to be moved, the Shogun is up for the job. Then again, it has to be a reasonably small mountain (around 3.500kg or so) but still, an impressive towing capacity figure. The Di-D is clever too – thanks to low (lowest in its class, Mitsubishi say) carbon dioxide emissions, the engine goes easy on the environment and on the driver’s wallet if we think about road taxation.

    Mitsubishi Shogun SG4 Black Edition
    Mitsubishi Shogun SG4 Black Edition

    Standard equipment is as bundled as it is in a normal SG4 – satnav, reversing camera, electric power steering, the Mitsubishi Active Stability and Traction Control (M-ASTC) and auto lights and wipers to name a few.

    What makes the whole deal even more appealing is the 3 year warranty, mileage unlimited policy which Mitsubishi has on the Shogun. One should service a 12MY Shogun every 9000 miles or once a year (whichever comes first) and at the cost of £750, the first three services are from the house.

    Source: Mitsubishi

  • 2012 Citroen C3 Picasso Code

    Citroen have decided to add a little “funk” to the functional Picasso C3 so welcome to the Picasso C3 Code special edition. Underneath it is basically a HDi 90 manual VTR+ trim with added spice.

    Besides air conditioning, curtain airbags and cruise control which naturally accompany the VTR+, the Code has some visual touches such as :

    • Chrome lower bumper inserts
    • Black painted door handles with chrome inserts
    • Obsidian Black painted front & rear bumpers
    • Obsidian Black door mirrors
    • Longitudinal roof bars
    • Shiny black vent surrounds

    Most distinguishing however are the 17 inch “Clover” alloy wheels which come in Polar White or Cherry Red, depending on the overall colour scheme of the C3. The body colours are Polar White, Thorium Grey, Cherry Red and Belle Ile Blue. The Polar White wheels are available with the latter two while the Cherry Red wheels come with the former two body colours.

    The engine is as efficient as ever with  61.4mpg combined and with its sub-120g/km CO2 emissions is eligible for free VED in the first year of usage.

    The overall coast of the Code stands at £15,695 which is just £300 more than the VTR+ trimline.

    Citroen C3 Picasso Code (2012)
    Citroen C3 Picasso Code (2012)

    Source: Citroen

  • Short preview on next weeks North American International Auto Show

    2012NAIAS ThumbEverything about this year’s North American International Auto Show will spin around small vehicles. As the population grows big and hence the customers of vehicles too, there is obviously the tendency of making more downsized automobiles. The North American International Auto Show will take place next week in Detroit.  In addition, there will also be a premiere of the automotive world’s most eagerly anticipated new vehicle. The North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week will also be full of luxury and innovation. Another important highlight is that there will be a huge “invasion” of hybrid vehicles as automakers compete to boost fuel economy. The North American International Auto Show 2012 is undeniably where the global automotive community comes together to catch up on the latest news and events.

    In short this is what we are going to see just in few days:

    Strongly anticipated at this Auto Show is the Acura brand. First, there will be presented a brand new concept called Acura NSX. This is a high-performance hybrid with a V-6 engine mated to a lithium ion battery pack. It will be developed and expected on the market in three years. Speaking about the immediate future there is the 2012 and 2013 Acura ILX Sedan, and also the redesigned 2013 RDX Compact Crossover, which will be powered by a V-6 replacing a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.From Audi we expect to see a refreshed model of a small sporty sedan and a crossover concept. The next brand with a downsized automobile is Buick, which will reveal a new small crossover, called 2013 Buick Encore. From Cadillac we expect the ATS Sedan, which, as promised will be launched in the second half of this year. Chevrolet will present a sporty RS modification of the Sonic Subcompact with a new front image and grille, and a six-speed manual included. In addition we are going to see two concept vehicles from Chevrolet. Dodge will thrill us with the new 2013 Dodge Dart with a lot of powertrain options and Dodge Charger styling cues. The Dart will be at dealerships in the first half of this year. Ford brand will present at the NAIAS its renewed  version of  2013 Fusion which now is with smoother lines, has an engines with direct injection and turbochargers, and a hybrid. Honda will redesign its Accord model in the middle of the year and will also show a new Accord Coupe Concept. This will be a great show for the brand Hyundai which will unveil the turbocharged four-cylinder Veloster. Another preview will be made with a 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe which has now a new grille and front fascia and a brand new interior. From Lexus we expect to see the LF-LC Coupe Concept and we also expect to get the answer whether this vehicle will be hybrid or not. Lincoln will appear with a concept of the new generation MKZ Sedan. A lot of success is going to be expected again from the brand Mercedes-Benz. First of all there will be a presentation of the redesigned 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, which is now longer and lighter than the previous model and has a new all-aluminum body. In addition the SL550 will be powered by a new 4.6-liter direct-injection V-8. Furthermore the luxury brand will present two E-Class Hybrids: the E400 Hybrid Sedan and the E300 BlueTec Hybrid. We can’t continue without mentioning the MINI brand which will “show-off” with their 2012 Roadster which will be in dealerships in February. Nissan Pathfinder Concept will be previewed by Nissan which will also show an electric version of the NV200. The luxury of Porsche will be presented by the 911 Carrera and Carrera S models which will go on sale in few months. Scion is a Toyota sub-brand which will show a new model of FR-S Coupe. The smallest of all small cars – Smart, will exhibit a two-seat electric pickup concept called the Smart For-Us. The Toyota brand of course will compete with a plug-in hybrid concept called the NS4. In addition it will also show the production version of the 2012 Prius C Hatchback. Another European car – Volkswagen will preview a hybrid, called 2013 Jetta Hybrid. And at last the Swedish brand Volvo has prepared for us a surprise with a new Hybrid concept will be firstly revealed at the North American International Auto Show.

    To sum up, at the NAIAS we expect to see these production vehicles: 2012/2013 Acura ILX sedan, 2013 Acura RDX Crossover, 2013 Buick Encore Crossover, 2013 Cadillac ATS Sedan, 2013 Dodge Dart Compact, 2013 Ford Fusion, 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, 2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrids, 2012 Mini Roadster, 2012 Toyota Prius C Hatchback; and these Concepts: Acura NSX, Audi crossover, Honda Accord Coupe, Lexus LF-LC Coupe, Lincoln MKZ Sedan, Nissan Pathfinder, Scion FR-S Coupe, Smart For-Us Pickup, Toyota NS4 Hybrid, Volvo hybrid. All this makes us eager to expect what will happen next week! Stay tuned!

  • 2012 Mopar Dodge Charger Redline

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar ThumbThe brand new 2012 Dodge Charger Redline is now with more aggressive look and delivers more dynamism in performance. This is due to the 426 HEMI®-powered showcase of new Mopar® performance kits. They will be available later this year. At the event of the 2012 North American International Auto Show, the Dodge Charger Redline vehicle with all three Mopar performance stage kits will make its first appearance.

    What Mopar has done to enhance this beautiful vehicle is firstly to include aerodynamic carbon fiber exterior components and interior accents. In details these modifications include a full-width Mopar carbon fiber chin spoiler in order to give the Charger Redline a more aggressive appearance. Matching the Redline Tri-coat paint, the two-piece grille features a body-color painted-grille surround with black signature “crosshair” insert. Large 20 x 8-inch Mopar Black Envy Wheels feature a Pitch Black-painted wheel face with polished accents. In addition Mopar carbon fiber door scoops highlight Dodge Charger Redline’s signature body-side scallops and include heritage “R/T” badging (all this only to pay homage to the historic 1970 Charger version). To make the car more powerful there is also a three-piece Mopar carbon fiber rear spoiler. Moreover it also provides an even more dynamic look. To emphase Dodge Charger Redline’s fastback silhouette, Mopar made a vinyl roof graphic in matte black. Furthermore the Dodge Charger Redline’s cockpit design includes high quality materials and is additionally enhanced with a Mopar aluminum shift bezel and aluminum instrument panel bezel with Redline perimeter accent. Mopar had even taken care for the pedal covers, which are made from stainless steel and feature a rubberized pattern for improved traction.

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar
    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar

    The second improvement by Mopar concerns the bolt-on berformance parts, which deliver improved power, handling and braking. This performance kit allows the Dodge Charger Redline’s legendary HEMI® V-8 engine to perform at its optimal level. Furthermore Mopar’s cat-back performance exhaust system provides an increase in horsepower. In order provide increased structural stability for improved handling dynamics, under the hood there is a front-tower cross-brace and front tower brace caps.  For ultimate braking capability, high-performance Mopar brake linings are track tested and deliver fade-resistance during hard braking use.

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar
    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar

    Next Mopar has included its Gen III High Output 426 HEMI V-8 engine, with 590 Horsepower (434 kW) on Tap. With this enhancement the vehicle delivers 220 more horsepower than the 2012 Dodge Charger R/T. With its legendary 426 cubic-inch “Elephant Motor,” the Dodge Charger Redline delivers the astonishing 590 horsepower. All this is possible thank to the lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block that shaves more than 100 lbs. from the traditional cast-iron crate version. On the other hand the new Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine includes a stout, balanced lower reciprocating assembly that features a forged-steel crankshaft with six-bolt mains at 2, 3 and 4, and cross-bolted 4-bolt mains at 1 and 5. H-beam style rods are made from forged steel and coupled to forged 11:1 compression ratio aluminum pistons. In order to provide excellent oil dispersion and to prevent oil aeration by the crankshaft, there is also included a revised windage tray. Moreover the Gen III High Output 426 HEMI engine’s valvetrain starts with a more aggressive roller camshaft with .639 intake and .628 exhaust lift and cylinder heads that feature the latest designs for excellent flow characteristics. In addition tie bars are also available, thus helping stabilizing the valvetrain at high engine rpm. At last, in this amazing Dodge Charger Redline’s Stage III performance kit are also included Mopar cast-aluminum valve covers and billet fuel rails.

    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar
    2012 Dodge Charger Redline by Mopar

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2012 AC Schnitzer MINI Cooper Coupé

    AC Schnitzer MINI Cooper Coupe THUMBWhat would make a MINI Cooper Coupé more sporting?  The correct answer is – tuning experts from AC Schnitzer. Yes, they are working with the aim to deliver some impressive tuning highlights for the two-seater vehicle.

    First of all there are some performance upgrades included. The modifications for the MINI Cooper SD Coupé and S Coupé are currently in development and planning respectively. More importantly is that there is already guaranteed a balanced handling on the exit from tight corners thank to the AC Schnitzer limited slip differential with locking up to 75%.

    Moreover the perfect dynamic driving experience is improved by the acoustic qualities of the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer of stainless steel with chromed Racing tailpipe trim. In addition the AC Schnitzer sports exhaust system balances the complete exhaust system to the demands of higher power and tuned engines. And to make the driving even more exciting there is also featured the AC Schnitzer high performance brake system. It includes 4-piston fixed caliper brakes (left/right) with slotted discs (left/right), the set of brake pads, caliper holder and steel flexible brake lines. In order to give the MINI Cooper Coupé high performance “movement gear“, the experts from AC Schnitzer have included a height-adjustable racing suspension (or the AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit), an aluminium strut brace and special antiroll bar for the rear axle.

    2012 AC Schnitzer MINI Cooper Coupé
    2012 AC Schnitzer MINI Cooper Coupé

    Of course AC Schnitzer hasn’t forgotten how important the outer look is for the MINI. Hence, there is an AC Schnitzer decor set available in various designs, together with the rear “Technology & Design“sticker. Not forgetting the interior too, the MINI Cooper Coupé by AC Schnitzer can be enhanced by the AC Schnitzer gear knob with digital gear display, aluminium pedal set, foot rests, “Black Line” handbrake handle and velours foot mats. Furthermore a sporting stance on the road is provided by the AC Schnitzer Mi2 BiColor wheels in 18 inch or the Mi 1 silver wheels in 17 inch with corresponding tyres. At last this sporting car features the impressive chromed AC Schnitzer exhaust trim, which makes the final touch to the overall look of the MINI.

    Source: AC Schnitzer

  • VMS M Sport 5 series

    Vorsteiner have unveiled their latest project – V-MS for the BMW 5 series (F10) equipped with M Sport package. It involves an aerodynamic kit, new wheels and some exhaust system tweaks.

    The aerodynamic kit consists of a front air splitter (designed to fit the M Sport bumper), a rear diffuser and a trunk lip spoiler – all in carbon fiber. These add-ons give a type of character to the 5 series while having a purposeful balancing role. A newly installed full cat back exhaust system ups the power by 12HP and enhances the output sound.

    To round it up, the tuning house has also included a selection of 20 and 21 inch forged wheels. Feel free to browse around the gallery and see if you like it.

    Vorsteiner BMW 5-Series F10 VMS (2012)
    Vorsteiner BMW 5-Series F10 VMS (2012)

    Source: Vorsteiner

  • Prior PD-R Aerodynamic Kit

    Prior, the company that indulges in manufacturing perfect-fit aerodynamic kits for luxury performance cars and such, have a new offering – The Prior PD-R kit for the BMW 5 series (F10).

    The company takes great interest in subtle elegance and this product is here to reinforce their stance. We have sleek sideskirts compatible with all F10 BMW’s, a sporty front bumper and a specially designed diffuser at the back. The latter two wont go on the M models but on any other specs they fit perfectly. The kit also includes all the nuts and bolts needed to seal the deal. Export only.

    Prior-Design BMW 5-Series F10 PD-R
    Prior-Design BMW 5-Series F10 PD-R

    Source: Prior Design

  • 2012 Caractere Porsche Cayenne

    2012 Porsche Cayenne thumbCaractere is a brand always with the aim of combining performance, quality and design, and at the same time Caractere Exclusive is a company specialized exclusively in the development and marketing of accessories for luxury vehicles. Furthermore Caractere Exclusive offers a full conversion kit which includes aerodynamic parts, light alloy wheel rims, sport exhaust systems and carbon fiber interior trim. All of this of course is especially developed for the PANAMERA and for the Cayenne. Moreover the company is in the process of developing a full range of equipment for the 991 and is intending to develop new products for new models as soon as they are launched on the market.

    Too return to our muttons, Caractere Exclusive offers for the Cayenne a full conversion kit. It includes an aerodynamic kit, light alloy wheel rims, a sport exhaust system and a set of carbon fiber interior trims- thus making the vehicle look more adorable then ever. To go further into details, the aerodynamic kit consists of a complete front bumper, a complete rear bumper, a set of side skirts, a set of wheel arch extensions and a roof spoiler.

    2012 Caractere Porsche Cayenne
    2012 Caractere Porsche Cayenne

    Additionally the company offers a sport exhaust system which enhances the performance and changes the sound of the engine. Next, Caractere Exclusive has improved the image of the vehicle more with the CW1 GRAPHITE or SILVER wheel rims 10×22” at the front and 11×22’’ at the rear. CW1 wheel rims are also available in the same widths in 20’’ and 21’’. Eventually, for the interior Caractere Exclusive offers a set of real carbon fiber trims which are available in various colours and different finishes.

    2012 Caractere Porsche Cayenne
    2012 Caractere Porsche Cayenne

    Source: Caractere Exclusive

  • 2012 Mopar Chrysler 200 Super S

    Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar ThumbThe brand new 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan will be modified with Mopar parts and accessories. The vehicle is a rolling showcase for the latest Mopar exterior parts that will be available for the 200 sedan in 2012. The Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar will make its first appearance at the 2012 North American International Auto Show. The Super S is Mopar’s view for Chrysler 200. And we must state that this new image of the vehicle is improved by the extensive list of high-quality Mopar parts which enhances the performance and look of our Chrysler 200.

    At first, Mopar’s modifications start with the front of the car with a large chin spoiler, satin chrome fog light trim, satin chrome grille surround and mesh in the upper and lower grilles. Moreover, the upper grille is gloss black with a recessed Chrysler wing badge. Additionally, body sides feature new side sills, satin chrome belt molding, black chrome “200” badges and gray or hyper black 18-inch “S” alloy wheels. Next, from the rear view, the new image is capped off by a new trunk lid spoiler, satin chrome light bar and a matte black lower diffuser with attached exhaust openings. There is also added a coil-over suspension, which minimizes the center of gravity for the vehicle. Furthermore it includes a cold-air intake and cat-back exhaust.

    Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar
    Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar

    In general the 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan delivers exceptional value without compromise. It has a sophisticated design, high-quality craftsmanship and technology, all combined they keep passengers entertained and connected. In addition the car also offers excellent fuel economy and exceptional power, thus delivering drivers and passengers with exciting drive, but look forward to it. Furthermore, the 2012 Chrysler 200 provides drivers an agile, confident, handling performance in all driving situations. To be more precise, the vehicle is offered with the proven 2.4-liter World Gas Engine and is available mated to a four-speed or six-speed automatic transmission, for an exceptionally fun and fuel-efficient driving experience. The 2.4-liter I-4 engine produces 173 horsepower (129 kW) and 166 lb.-ft. (225 NM) of torque and has an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 21 miles per gallon (mpg) city and 30 mpg highway mated to the four-speed automatic transmission and 20 mpg city and 31 mpg highway when mated to the six-speed automatic transmission. The available 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, one of Ward’s “10 Best Engines”, provides exhilarating driving experience thank to the exceptional V-6 horsepower and fuel economy. Moreover the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to the 62TE six-speed automatic transmission and produces 283 horsepower (211 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. (353 Nm) of torque. It has an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. To make more individual, Chrysler Group offers the car in four different configurations: The Chrysler 200 LX, 200 Touring, 200 Limited and 200S. All models are packed with style, innovative features and a dynamic driving experience, and more importantly they are at an excellent value.
    And with the package offered by Mopar, this car will be even more special for those driving it! Moper is well known for its innovations that deliver more excitement and dynamism in the driving experience. If you are not familiar Mopar is the first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, which will deliver a new channel of communication with consumers. Moreover, Moper offers electronic owner manuals. More importantly is that they are the first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot. You’ll definitely love this feature! It also has Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS). This is a new interactive vehicle tracking device that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on pre-set parameters. Mopar is Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand and no doubt it will enhance perfectly the new Chrysler 200 Super S!

    Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar
    Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar

    And if you got already interested by this astonishing Mopar package on the Chrysler 200 Super S, it will be available on Chrysler 200S later in 2012. Mopar’s Chrysler 200 Super S will be one many Mopar-modified vehicles that will make their first appearance during the 2012 auto show season.

    Source: Chrysler

  • 2012 Cadillac Escalade Security Features

    2012 Cadillac Escalade Premium Collection ThumbWhat a start of the year for Cadillac: just underneath the surface of the new 2012 Cadillac Escalade are new security features. Because the segment-leading luxury SUV is at the top of annual most-stolen vehicle lists, the brand has now developed a new way to combat thieves who have pushed and towed the SUV. The Escalade is well-protected against typical drive-away grand theft auto through existing security features and standard OnStar security technology. The aim is to make the Escalade a tough target for thieves without any added inconvenience for customers. The new system features strong protections, while working noiselessly in the background.

    To go into details, the new 2012 security enhancements include PASS Key 3+, which is a sophisticated encryption system for the key; key cylinder and ignition system; a more-robust steering column-lock system that makes it nearly impossible to maneuver the Escalade onto a flatbed; an available inclination sensor that sets off an alarm when the system senses an unwarranted change of the angle of the vehicle, such as would occur with towing, flat-bedding or lifting the vehicle; an available shock sensor intended to reduce content theft and push-away theft by sounding the alarm when the vehicle is “shocked,” such as by breaking window glass; and finally, there is also available new wheel lock system to help prevent the theft of Escalade’s wheels and tires.

    2012 Cadillac Escalade Security Features
    2012 Cadillac Escalade Security Features

    In addition OnStar provides standard security with a distant ignition lock that can prevent the vehicle from starting if a break-in is detected. And if a vehicle is stolen, OnStar will also show the vehicle location and remotely slow the vehicle down to assist law enforcement in vehicle recovery. Furthermore the new inclination sensors will make it more difficult to push or tow this SUV undetected. Unnoticed thefts and break-ins will be also hampered by the added shock sensors and locking devices.

    Undeniably all these types of innovative theft prevention technologies are an important step in lowering thefts.

    2012 Cadillac Escalade Premium Collection
    2012 Cadillac Escalade Premium Collection

    Source: Cadillac