Blog

Volvo Concept You

Following on from the reveal of the Concept Universe earlier in the year, the Frankfurt Motorshow marks the debut of an evolution to the Concept Universe – Concept You – and gives another insight into Volvo Cars future. Both concept cars are being used as design studies to obtain input from the global car buying public to find the ultimate design of the next large sedan from Volvo.

“Concept You gives a good indication of what you can expect from our next large sedan. The blend of contemporary Scandinavian design, exquisite craftsmanship and intuitive technology will appeal to luxury car buyers all over the world,” says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

The Concept You, combines a sleek coupé-like exterior with a luxurious high-tech interior that keeps the driver in command via intuitive smart pad technology. Concept You’s luxurious interior gives luxury sedan customers a full experience of the craftsmanship and intuitive technology that will be the hallmark of future Volvos.

Global Feedback

The company has collected global feedback on Concept Universe, both through surveys and by closely monitoring social media comments.

“The most valuable input has been used in the development of the Concept You. This car features a more daring, coupé -like profile than the Concept Universe, while the front moves towards a more classic Volvo look,” explains Peter Horbury, Vice President Design at Volvo Car Corporation.

He added, “The fastback profile mirrors a strong trend among European buyers. With growing signs that Chinese “taste buds” are moving rapidly in the same direction, our main aim is to explore how daring our next large sedan should be in order to be a global success. We are very eager to hear what people think about the Concept You.”

Volvo Concept You

Cars Designed Around People

Volvo Car Corporation’s strategy is to achieve profitable growth by being a truly global company with products designed around customers’ needs and lifestyle.

“With our hearts in Sweden and our eyes and ears all over the world, we intend to be the brand that best interprets what buyers of modern luxury cars want,” says Stefan Jacoby. He adds:

“The Concept You reflects how people’s perception of luxury is moving beyond the traditional perspective. There is a growing appreciation for the ingenious blend of elegant design, superior craftsmanship and smart technology.”

Several aspects of the new strategy

The Concept You radiates several aspects of Volvo Car Corporation’s new, customer focused “Designed Around You” strategy:

It is a large, luxurious sedan with a new, sculpted Scandinavian form language that also honours the sweeping, elegant lines of classic Volvo models.
The inspiration from – and cooperation with – a number of world famous brands demonstrates the level of exquisite craftsmanship customers can expect from future Volvo models.
The concept car reveals how Volvo’s new Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA) opens up dynamic design possibilities – on top of the technological and industrial advantages.
By bringing the latest intuitive smart pad technology into the car, Volvo Car Corporation emphasises its ambition to lead the development of super-functional connectivity features in cars.

Volvo makes life less complicated and more enjoyable

Volvo Car Corporation aims to make people’s lives less complicated and more enjoyable while strengthening the company’s established commitment to safety and the environment.

“We will compete with the best with our special kind of luxury. Volvo’s cars are intuitive and uncomplicated. Our customers don’t have to give away driving pleasure to drive safely. They can be environmentally conscious and still indulge the pure joy of owning a luxury car,” Stefan Jacoby concludes

Touch-control cockpit and pure craftsmanship

The luxurious interior of the Concept You features a blend of intuitive smart pad technology and first-class craftsmanship.

“The Concept You explores new territories in our search for the ultimate intuitive car that makes the owners manual a thing of the past. Smart phones and smart pads have brought mobile infotainment into a new era. Here, we use a number of touch-screens to replace buttons and controls in order to make the driver totally connected, totally in control. The technology also helps us to create a refreshingly uncluttered interior,” explains Peter Horbury.

The Concept You control centre consists of four main areas; a digital Driver Information Monitor (DIM), a head-up display on the windscreen, a touch-screen in the upper part of the centre console and a touch-screen between the two individual rear seats. The wood/leather steering wheel has aluminium and glass paddles with integrated touch-screens.

The touch-screen in the upper part of the centre console remains in sleep mode until the driver looks at it. A hidden infrared camera registers the eye movements and information is displayed on the screen.

Another sensor registers hand movements and triggers the Infotainment system’s control mode. The possibilities vary depending on whether the screen is approached by the driver or by the front passenger.

“Certain functions, such as surfing the Web, are only accessible from the passenger side while the car is rolling. The technology knows who is the present operator and adapts itself automatically,” says Peter Horbury.

The driver can “flip” data from the central touch-screen to the head-up display and can exchange data with the rear passengers. A light guide in the free-floating centre console indicates file transfer.

Unique air-powered sound system

The Infotainment system also integrates a high-end sound system from Alpine. It features the unique “FreshAir” subwoofer – a not yet released technology that uses the air outside the car to create the ultimate listening experience.

The sound system consists of small, optimised units that considerably cut weight – while still producing a better sound than today’s systems.

Comfortable and cultivated

The interior is dedicated to offer design-driven customers a comfortable, cultivated, Scandinavian inspired environment that is also user-focused and refreshingly uncomplicated. Every detail has been chosen with the customer experience in focus.

The interior is driver-orientated at the front and comfortably relaxed in the rear. The dark colour scheme in the front seats fades seamlessly towards the rear until it fully transforms into a light rear seating area. The interior moulds into the rear seat and becomes part of the seating environment.

Volvo Car Corporation has partnered with several other famous brands in order to create a genuine feeling of luxury with the right Scandinavian touch.

Leather, suede and suit fabric

The four individual seats blend chrome-free leather from Bridge of Wear with Dinamica ecological suede. The off-black front seats have suede in the centre to create optimal grip. The soft beige rear seats are designed for pure comfort with leather in the centre and suede on the sides.

The Concept You design also integrates the luxurious qualities of a tailor made suit into the car. The back of the front seats and the door panels feature exclusive Italian fabric and designs from Swedish fashion house Oscar Jacobson.

The designers have also been generous with large, handcrafted pieces of walnut – accompanied by leather panels, Dinamica suede roof lining and carefully chosen aluminium details.

Hand-tufted wool carpets

The wooden floor, which echoes Scandinavian homes, is covered with a specially designed hand-tufted carpet from world-famous Swedish brand Kasthall. Just like the rest of the interior, it fades from dark in the front to light in the rear. The front texture has a sporty firmness, while the rear part of the carpet is luxuriously soft.

Inspiration from Georg Jensen

The Concept You is finished in a light blue, liquid metal paint from DuPont. The ventilated disc brakes are developed by Volvo’s racing specialists Polestar.

The car’s fastback silhouette is emphasised by the 21-inch polished aluminium wheels with a twisted twin-spoke design and tyres from Pirelli (275/30/21).

Up front, the Concept You grille – which has a more classic appearance than the Concept Universe – features details with the same beautifully polished craftsmanship.

“The design of the wheels, the grille and details in the innovative headlamps have been inspired by the exquisite works of world-famous Danish design house Georg Jensen. Their precious items capture the essence of Scandinavian design. Uncluttered, organic surfaces and superb craftsmanship that radiate timeless luxury,” says Peter Horbury. He adds:

“This eternal beauty of Georg Jensen design is what we are aiming for with the whole concept car. Just like the finest luxury goods, this design should feel handcrafted and durable enough to stand the test of time.”

Source: Volvo

September 13, 2011
2012 Kia Rio three-door

While the all-new Kia Rio five-door hatchback is generating positive media coverage around the world and arriving in dealer showrooms across Europe this month, Kia is celebrating the world premiere of its new Rio three-door model at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Designed primarily for the European market, the new Rio three-door will expand the appeal of Kia’s latest B-segment model to attract a new group of consumers to the brand for the first time – boosting conquest sales after its introduction during the first quarter of 2012. Ultimately, Kia expects the Rio three-door to account for approximately 20 to 25 per cent of total Rio sales.

Rio three-door has the same key dimensions as the five-door model (length 4,045 mm, width 1,720 mm, height 1,455 mm and wheelbase 2,570 mm) and retains the same roofline that is one of the lowest in Kia’s European product range, emphasising its purposeful, sporty stance.

In most European markets, Rio three-door will be available with the same range of powertrains, equipment and options as the five-door. The new model will offer customers a choice of four highly efficient three- and four-cylinder engines – with a 75 to 109 ps power range.

2012 Kia Rio three door

The fastest Rio three-door will accelerate to 62 mph in 11.5 seconds and be able to reach a top speed of 114 mph. Fuel consumption will be as low as 88.2 mpg for the newly-introduced EcoDynamics diesel model, which will also deliver an industry-leading CO2 rating of just 85 g/km – the lowest emissions of any non electric vehicle, including hybrid vehicles.

With two bodystyles for new Rio, plus the already-popular five-door Soul and Venga B-segment models, Kia is confident of capturing an even larger share of the increasingly popular compact car market in Europe. The three-door Rio will go on sale from early 2012.

Source: Kia

September 13, 2011

2012 Toyota Avensis

The new Toyota Avensis makes its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show, a substantially revised model that builds on the spaciousness, practicality and fuel efficiency of the current, third-generation car. It features a bolder, more refined exterior design and improvements to the finish quality, comfort and NVH in the cabin. Driving dynamics have been improved and a new grade structure (UK details to be announced later) will provide even more value for money.

The 2.0-litre D-4D engine has been revised to give significant improvements in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. With a tax threshold at 120 g/km in almost a third of European countries, the 2.0 D-4D’s 119 g/km will attract generous tax benefits for both private and fleet buyers.

Designed and engineered in Europe and built exclusively at Toyota’s Burnaston factory in the UK, Avensis was launched in 1997 and is now firmly established in the European D-segment, selling 70,585 units across the region in 2010 to take a 5.8 per cent segment share.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

New Toyota design direction
Bolder, more dynamic styling
Restyled rear for the saloon

The overall dimensions of the Avensis saloon and tourer remain unchanged, but both have been extensively restyled.

A bolder, more refined frontal treatment displays the new Toyota family ‘face’. A key element in this is a change in the proportions of the upper and lower grilles, with the emphasis now on making the lower grille larger for a more assertive, dynamic look.

The new grille design is flanked by narrower headlamps which emphasise the elegant proportions of the new styling. The headlamps now incorporate daytime running lights.

The lower bumper is sculpted with a strong, protruding centre section that houses a large air intake, focusing attention on the lower half of the vehicle. Together with the crisp detailing of integral foglamp housings at each corner, the design gives Avensis a wider, more purposeful stance and ground-hugging appearance.

At the rear there is new rear bumper, which incorporates a centre guard on saloon models. The combination lamp clusters and foglamps have been redesigned, making them more prominent and improving visibility. A new chrome trim for the licence plate adds a further touch of elegance.

The 16-inch steel wheels have new-design covers and the 17-inch Fuji alloys have new colour and machine facings. The other 17 and 18-inch wheels available for Avensis gain a new, darker finish treatment.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Improved quality in touch and appearance
Introduction of Toyota touch and Go Plus

Avensis’s cabin is already notable for its comfort, roominess and practicality. Now it benefits from higher perceived quality across the range, with upgraded upholstery offered in new colours, and the introduction of Toyota Touch and Go Plus, the most advanced yet affordable touch-screen satellite navigation system in the D-segment.

The appearance and feel of the entire dashboard have been improved. The centre console has been redesigned to improve the layout and operability of the switchgear. The central air vents have also be re-shaped and share the same new metal paint finish of the centre console, and the side vents gain a chrome trim.

The tactile quality of frequently handled parts such as the door grips, switchgear and front console all gain higher quality trim. The instrument dial backlighting has been changed for amber to white, and leather has been introduced to cover the rear console box lid.

The front seatbacks have been redesigned to offer better lateral support and comfort, and the upholstery has been upgraded across the range, with new colours available, too.

Multimedia system

New Avensis benefits from Toyota’s range of affordable, touch-screen multimedia equipment: Toyota Touch, and the Toyota Touch and Go and Toyota Touch and Go Plus navigation systems.

Toyota Touch and Go Plus

Making its world debut in new Avensis, Touch and Go Plus adds numerous, additional advanced technology features to Toyota’s touch-screen multimedia system.

It features advanced voice recognition for navigation address input, one-shot destination entry, music search and play, and phone contact search and call. It also incorporates email send and receive, a text-to-speech message readout facility, a calendar and, through a Gracenote database, a ‘Play More Like This’ music function.

Enhanced satellite navigation mapping incorporates 3D city modelling and landmarks, and an additional Traffic Patterns database showing the average speed on road sections of a programmed route, according to the time, day and month. The system includes three years’ free map and software updating.

Audio		Navigation
ENTRY AUDIO	TOYOTA TOUCH	TOYOTA TOUCH AND GO	TOYOTA TOUCH AND GO PLUS
Functions	Additional functions	Additional functions	Additional functions
Radio-CD USB port 6 speakers	6.1” touch-screen Bluetooth Rear-view camera Automatic phone book access and audio streaming iPod album cover display Vehicle settings* A/C pop-up display	Full map navigation Advanced multimedia Speed and safety camera warning Online points of interests search Applications SMS* (send and receive) Contact picture display***	11 speakers Traffic Patterns 3D landmarks and city models Email and Calendar*** ‘Play More Like This’ music search Advanced Voice Recognition Text to speech 3-year map and software updates/upgrades

* Vehicle settings availability varies according to model and grade

** Requires Bluetooth® DUN or PAN profile, a data plan and a network operator allowing tethering

*** Bluetooth Message Across Profile required on the mobile phone

SPECIFICATIONS AND EQUIPMENT

New specifications and grade structure
Increased level of standard equipment

Every grade in the new Avensis range will be revised to deliver greater value for money through higher levels of standard equipment and quality.

Specific details of UK grades and equipment will be announced later, but all models will adopt integral daytime running lights. As detailed in the interior design section (above), cabin trims and upholstery have been upgraded with new finishes, designs and colour choices.

IMPROVED 2.0 D-4D ENGINE AND DRIVING DYNAMICS

2.0 D-4D engine CO₂ emissions reduced by 20g/km to 119g/km without compromising performance
Lower emissions level attracts tax benefits in several European countries

The 124bhp 2.0 litre D-4D turbodiesel engine has been extensively revised, with the introduction of a new turbocharger, extensive combustion chamber modifications and improved glow control. As a result, torque delivery is more linear, fuel efficiency has improved and CO₂ emissions have been reduced by about 15 per cent – from 139 to 119 g/km – in both saloon and tourer models.

This marked reduction in CO₂ emissions has significant total ownership cost implications. A taxation threshold of 120g/km is established in almost a third of all European countries, and the revised 2.0 D-4D unit’s 119 g/km CO₂ figure will thus deliver tax benefits for both private and fleet drivers.

In addition to the revised 124bhp 2.0 D-4D, the new Avensis’ powertrain range further comprises a 148bhp, 2.2 D-4D unit available with either a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or a Diesel Particulate and NO_X Reduction filter (DPNR); a 145bhp 1.8-litre Valvematic petrol engine is also available.

All engines are matched to six-speed manual transmissions. The 148hp 2.2 D-4D DPNR unit may be optionally equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, and both 1.8 and 2.0-litre petrol engines may be fitted with Toyota’s Multidrive S continuously variable transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifts.

New Avensis retains the proven front MacPherson strut and rear double wishbone suspension layout of its predecessor, but improvements to the platform, chassis and powertrains deliver greater ride comfort and handling agility.

SAFETY AND DRIVER ASSISTANCE TECHNOLOGIES

New Avensis equipped to meet the highest safety standards
Advanced safety technologies, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

New Avensis shares the world-class safety performance of the previous generation model, which was awarded a maximum, five-star rating in the 2009 Euro NCAP crash test programme.

Toyota is committed to achieving the highest levels of active, passive and pedestrian impact safety, and took the lead in the development of advanced safety technologies such as pre-crash safety, lane departure warning and lane keeping assistance systems.

Advanced Pre-Crash Safety System

An Advanced Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system is available as an option on new Avensis (according to grade). It uses a millimetre-wave radar sensor to scan the road ahead, recognising potential hazards and assisting the driver in reducing the chances of a collision.

If there is a high possibility of a collision, PCS will alert the driver and, when he or she begins to brake, provide braking assistance to supplement the braking effort, simultaneously activating the seatbelt pretensioners. If the driver does not brake and a collision is inevitable, the system will automatically apply the brakes to reduce impact speed.

Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) works in tandem with the PCS system. It will automatically maintain a selected distance from the vehicle in front. Once the road ahead is clear, the vehicle automatically returns to its original cruising speed.

Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist

PCS is further complimented by Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) systems.

Using digital camera technology mounted behind the rear-view mirror, these systems can help to prevent unintended lane changes by first giving an audible and visual warning and then applying corrective steering torque to help the driver remain within a chosen lane.

Additional Active Safety Systems

All new Avensis versions are fitted, as standard, with ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+).

Adaptive Front Lighting

New Avensis models equipped with High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps are fitted with an Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS). Calculating where the vehicle will be in three seconds’ time according to steering operation and vehicle speed, the system swivels the low beam projector headlamps in response to steering input, helping to light up a bend as the driver steers into it.

AFS is also equipped with a dynamic levelling function, which automatically maintains a constant beam height. The combination of these two functions achieves optimum light distribution in all driving conditions.

Source: Toyota

September 13, 2011

2012 Focus Focus ST-R

As the all-new Focus ST road car makes its global production debut, Ford is giving a European welcome at the Frankfurt Motor Show to a special motorsport counterpart – the race-tweaked, production-based Focus ST-R.

Despite its close resemblance to the Focus ST road car, the Focus ST-R is purpose-built for the track by Ford Racing in North America as a fully-prepared competition car. It features a powerful 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, FIA regulation roll cage, uprated brakes and track-tuned suspension.

It will be available to teams soon, starting in North America, to race in a variety of series.

The all-new Focus ST-R has been crafted by engineers at Ford Racing – with technical support from Ford’s Global Performance Vehicles group – to allow it to compete in a huge variety of series, including Grand-Am ST, World Challenge TC and Canadian Touring Car Series. Ford also hopes teams will race the car in key European motorsport series and major national events such as the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

2012 Ford Focus ST-R

Its linkage to the new Focus ST road car is no accident.

“From the beginning, the Focus and new Focus ST were designed to be driver’s cars,” saidJost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles and Motorsport Business Development.“The road-going Focus features best-in-class brakes, handling and powertrains and thedesign and functionality of the various vehicle systems have helped us to develop a global technical specification for teams wanting to race the new Focus cost effectively. Ford Racing in North America has taken this effort and developed the new Focus ST-R and is a perfect example of how a great production car inspires a competitive race car for enthusiasts.”

Initially homologated for American and Canadian touring car racing, Focus ST-R will be available to order from Ford dealers in North America by seasoned hardcore professional drivers, amateur racers and track day enthusiasts as well. Ford’s vision is to broaden availability to additional regions in the future.

“We’re thrilled to be taking the Focus ST-R from concept to reality for motorsport enthusiasts initially in North America and potentially around the world,” said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. “The previous turn-key race cars we developed for North American racing have been hugely successful, so we are hopeful that the ST-R will be the first such vehicle for global series and as a direct result of the company’s global platform strategy and our technical support program for motorsport applications of Focus and Fiesta models.

“This is a competitive turn key race car that will allow our customers to compete successfully in multiple series around the world with minor modifications. And it shows the on-going alignment of Ford Racing with our Performance Vehicles development group.”

“Because the Focus ST-R is a production-based road race car, it features stock body panels and production parts where possible,” added Allison. “People who buy one will get will get a fully prepared race car that will only need communications equipment and the customer’s decals to go racing. We’ve already had significant interest in this vehicle from numerous established race teams.”

Source: Ford

September 13, 2011
2012 Lexus GS 450h Full Hybrid

Lexus also exhibits the 2012 GS 450h full hybrid at the IAA Frankfurt, this year. The premium saloon comes with an all-new exterior and interior which reflect development of Lexus’s L-finesse design philosophy. The bold and dynamic exterior design includes a stronger frontal treatment which gives the new GS a commanding road presence that is appropriate for a Lexus performance saloon.

The interior boasts high quality materials and advanced interface technologies to help keep the driver alert and everyone on board comfortable over long periods of time.

2012 GS 450h features a new, energy saving air conditioning system with S-Flow and ‘Nano-e’ technologies; a second-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) linked to the world’s largest on-board multi-information display screen; and a choice of audio systems that offer unparalleled power and clarity.

2012 Lexus GS 450h Full Hybrid Interior

It is powered by a V6 Atkinson cycle petrol engine, with a two-motor hybrid system in a front-engine/rear-wheel drive configuration.

The vehicle also has a new re-engineered bodyshell, new suspension, more powerful brakes and leading-edge technologies such as Active Variable Suspension (AVS) and Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS).

The Lexus Dynamic Handling System provides a world-first integration of AVS, DRS, Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) and Step 5 of Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, to co-ordinate every aspect of front and rear wheel control and provide agile, sharp and confident driving behaviour with more direct response to driver inputs.

The new GS is equipped with the most technologically advanced active safety and driver assistance systems available on the market today. VDIM Step 5 now integrates the new DRS system, while the Advanced Pre-Crash Safety system (PCS) incorporates a Driver Monitor Camera and a complementary Adaptive Cruise Control system (ACC). On the new GS, the ACC will function at all speeds down to 0mph.

Additional active safety features include Lane-Keep Assist (LKA), a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), the Lexus Night View system and a Head-Up Display (HUD) with an expanded content menu.

2012 Lexus GS 450h Full Hybrid

Source: Lexus

September 12, 2011
2012 Lexus CT 200h F-Sport

Lexus has unveiled the new CT 200h F-Sport at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new F-Sport version is specially designed to extend the model’s appeal to an even wider customer base.

It comes with nice exterior featuring revised body kit including front and rear bumpers and side skirts. There are also bigger rims and tinted glass. The interior boasts improved dashboard and new door panel trim. Among the new features in the interior, CT 200h F sport includes a sporty steering wheel and new pedals.

Lexus also retuned the suspension and added Flame Blue color to the option list.

Stay tuned for full information and price list.

2012 Lexus CT 200h F-Sport

Source: Lexus

September 12, 2011
2012 Ford Focus ST 5-door and Wagon

Ford has finally revealed official details about 2012 Focus ST both 5-door and Wagon version. The stylish sports hatchback is revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Both models will hit the European market in 2012.

Focus ST is one of the most successful performance vehicles of the company. With innovative design and technology throughout, the new Focus ST will be more powerful and surprisingly fuel efficient, raising the bar once again when it comes to handling too.

“The new Focus ST is a really exciting car for Ford,” said Jost Capito, director of Global Performance Vehicles.

“It’s the first performance model to build upon the design and technology strengths of one of our new global production vehicles. It’s a car built for driving enthusiasts all around the world and they will not be disappointed.”, he added.

2012 Focus ST is powered by a 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine with 250PS (184 kW) and 360Nm (267 lb-ft) of torque. The new engine replaces the brilliant 2.5 liter 5-cylinder power plant. The EcoBoost 2.0 in the Focus ST is expected to cut both CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption by more than 20% from the previous-generation European model when fuel consumption data is certified.

The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, which has specially revised gearing to produce the maximum punch from each throw of the gear shift.

“This is the first time we have used a 4-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model and the results are phenomenal,” said Capito.

“Drivers will have a lot of power and torque throughout the rev range to use. For everyday driving, though, the characteristics of this car will let them drive in a more fuel efficient way than previously, which is an essential part of the ST’s DNA.”, he finished.

2012 Ford Focus ST 5-door

Source: Ford

September 12, 2011
2012 Honda Civic – Official Pictures

Honda has finally revealed official pictures of the brand new Civic. These images show the dynamic and aggressive exterior design as well as the high quality interior.

The 2012 Civic boasts sporty elements and executive features. Sources of inspiration included a blended wing body aeroplane in which the fuselage and wings blend into a single body for superior aerodynamic performance.

The main tasks the new Civic are better ride and handling, reduced CO₂ emissions, nice design and interior quality and of course class-leading cabin, boot space and practicality.

Designed and developed specifically for the European market, the new Civic will be offered as a five-door hatchback and will reach UK showrooms in early 2012.

The new Honda Civic will be launched tomorrow at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA).

2012 Honda Civic

Source: Honda

September 12, 2011
Seat IBL Concept

Seat exhibits IBL Concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Concept car features unique design with dynamic and confident look. The SEAT IBL combines a clean, minimalist exterior with an innovative, premium interior that clearly conveys its quality and precision.

“The IBL shows that sports saloons within the SEAT brand portfolio will play an important role in future. However, this concept car does not pre-empt a specific model, but rather shows the design philosophy we are applying to bring the unmistakable SEAT identity to a saloon car, too.”, commented James Muir, President of SEAT, S.A.

“The IBL is the perfect representation of SEAT brand values – with its distinctive look, its precision and its premium feel. Over the next few years, SEAT will embark upon a product offensive that will see the spirit of the IBL reflected in several series-production models.”, he added.

“In SEAT’s Technical Centre (CTS) we have combined the latest technology that the Volkswagen Group offers with our design language to achieve products as exciting as the IBL.”, said Dr Matthias Rabe, Vice-President of Research and Development at SEAT.

Seat IBL Concept

Source: Seat

September 12, 2011
Skoda MissionL Concept Car

Skoda has introduced MissionL Concept Car at the 2011 Frankfurt International Motor Show. The model will be launched in Europe, Russia and China in 2012 and the first deliveries to customers in India will commence late 2011.

“This premiere kicks off ŠKODA’s model offensive for the coming years,” commented SKODA Board Chairman Prof. Dr. h.c. Winfried Vahland.

“This new compact model, along with other new products to follow, will enable us to accomplish our goal of increasing global annual sales to 1.5 million vehicles by 2018. We are going to present a new car approximately every six months over the next few years.”, he added.

SKODA’s presentation is situated in Hall No. 3, Stand A05. The brand’s press conference is scheduled for Tuesday, 13 September, 2011, from 12:15 till 12:30 PM.

Skoda MissionL Concept Car

Source: Skoda

September 12, 2011
Carlsson CK63 RS

The automobile manufacturer Carlsson uses the stylish shapes of the new generation of Mercedes-Benz CLS models (type C 218) to underline the vehicle’s elegance and sportiness. At the top of the line is the Carlsson CK63 RS based on the Mercedes-Benz CLS 63 AMG with Performance Package which will have its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2011.

Carlsson incorporates coupé-style contours and lends the vehicle’s exterior a touch of sophistication with the comprehensive aerodynamic package. The new front spoiler and the front spoiler lip RS made of carbon fibre ensure an athletic look for the luxurious saloon, a look which is underscored further by the black painted stainless steel grille inserts.

The discreet spoiler on the trunk lid and the rear skirt insert with its rear diffuser RS made of carbon fibre ensure extra downforce and more stable road holding even at high speeds. The performance figures are also impressive: Optimized by Carlsson, the engine of the CLS 63 AMG with Performance Package under the long bonnet now produces 649 hp (477 kW) and 900 Nm of torque, compared to the original 557 hp (410 kW) and 800 Nm. This allows the Carlsson CK63 RS to reduce the time for the sprint from 0 to 100 kph from 4,3 to 4,1 seconds.

Carlsson CK63 RS

Finally, the Carlsson stainless steel sport exhaust system with 4 oval end pipes gives the CK63 RS a distinctive sound. Also for smaller diesel and gasoline engines, Carlsson offers technically sophisticated performance kits with the general Carlsson 3 year guarantee. The performance kit CK50 for the CLS 500 for instance raises the output of the engine from 408 hp (300 kW) and 600 Nm of torque to 475 hp (349 kW) and 687 Nm.

The vehicle’s light alloy wheels 1/10 which are available in up to 20 inch also emphasise the sporty yet stylish contours of the new aerodynamics package. By combining five single and five double spokes, the automobile manufacturer from Merzig in Germany is setting a design trend. Thanks to an elaborate manufacturing process, the forged wheel 1/10 Ultra Light generates a weight advantage of 40 percent compared to the original wheels. This allows Carlsson to attain more strength and a distinctly improved rolling quality at the same time. The 1/10 design is also available as casted wheels in three different colour variants: Brilliant Edition, Graphite Edition and Titanium Edition.

The Carlsson suspension with two sport springs lowers the CLS by 30mm at the front axle and thus allows an even more agile drivability. Carlsson’s patented C-Tronic® SUSPENSION is responsible for delivering excellent road holding for vehicles with the standard AIRMATIC suspension. This intelligent suspension lowering system drops the vehicle by up to 30 millimetres and continuously monitors the situation of the road. Depending on the road conditions, the controlling device adapts the residual spring travel every 150 milliseconds, thus ensuring optimum comfort and excellent driving dynamics with an appealing look. The C-Tronic® SUSPENSION switches to serial conditions when the speed drops under 20 kph as the original suspension adjustment will already lower the vehicle.

The vehicle’s refinement reaches its peak in the interior. The automobile manufacturer cultivates traditional craftsmanship by using finest materials such as leather, exclusive Alcantara, carbon fibre, best root wood and several other exclusive natural materials. The selections of the materials and the excellent workmanship attest the uncompromising quality requirements of Carlsson’s own upholstery. The CK63 RS experienced a Carlsson interior refinement at the top of the line. The seats and door panels as well as the rear seat bench have been covered in Mokka brown Carlsson NAPPA EXCLUSIVE leather. Thanks to its thickness of 1 to 1,4 millimetres, this pigmented leather is particularly resistant while still providing the feel of a soft leather glove. The extensive tanning process guarantees that the leather skins’ pores remain intact and thus prevent heat accumulation. In the winter, too, this particular natural material immediately adapts to the individual body temperature.

The same high quality and attention to detail is reflected by the carbon inlays in dark brown/matte which can be found among others in the dashboard, the door panels and the centre console. Other high quality parts like the illuminated door sill panels, soft velour floor mats featuring the Carlsson logo and door pins made of brushed aluminium further contribute to the stylish appearance of the CLS’ interior.

The number of variants is unlimited: The saddlery’s applications range from different forms and kinds of perforation over individual colours of desired leather skins to the combination of various materials like leather and Alcantara with corresponding stitching and piping.

Exclusively Central European raw materials of German production are used for all Carlsson NAPPA products. Carlsson also assumes responsibility in matters of environmental protection: the water used during the manufacturing process leaves the German tannery in drinking water quality.

With its comprehensive finishing package for the CLS model, Carlsson has once more proven its refined sense of taste when it comes to Mercedes design. Thanks to its efforts, the already stylish standard CLS63 AMG has turned into a unique individualist.

Source: Carlsson

September 12, 2011
Lancia Ypsilon Diamond

Lancia is presenting the Ypsilon Diamond show-car at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. This precious “cut” of Lancia’s little jewel represents the ultimate in luxury, typified by prestigious interior materials and a refined body finish created by a unique paint treatment and finish. The Diamond is no mere exercise in styling but a genuine experiment by Lancia to identify luxury content for a possible production model.

The Diamond’s colour scheme features Lancia’s new “eco-chrome” finish, which achieves a chrome effect by means of a special paint rather than by conventional chrome plating. Tinged with a warm, “white gold” nuance, this unique new eco-chrome finish has been applied to various parts of the body, including the sun roof, mirror covers, grille, headlight surrounds, pillar and tailgate logos, door handles, bonnet, spoiler, exhaust terminal and alloy wheels. The rest of the body is finished in an elegant soft-touch effect colour called “Chiffon White”.

The team at the Lancia Style Centre has paid special attention to the Ypsilon Diamond’s refined colour scheme. After all, colour has never been simply a matter of aesthetics for the Ypsilon. On the contrary, it is an integral part of a product philosophy based on elegance, glamour, personality, play, creativity, style and the widest array of customisation options.

Lancia Ypsilon Diamond

The Ypsilon Diamond’s fascinating and original exterior finish is backed up by an interior that achieves a perfect blend of elegance and refinement. The upholstery is characterised by Lancia’s trademark attention to detail and by the use of superior quality materials, from luxurious, bronze-black galuchat hide on the central sections of the seats and on the head rests with the Ypsilon logo, to glittering, soft, embossed nabuk hide on the seat sides, dashboard and door panels.

This two-tone theme extends to the rest of the interior too. The roof is covered in a light Alcantara fabric that matches the paint finish of the door pillars and sun visors, while the bottom section of the dashboard is finished in a contrasting dark shade. The steering wheel, instrument cowl, and handbrake and gear lever boots are in sumptuous black leather. The connotation of sartorial craftsmanship is reinforced by double stitching and embroidering in both contrasting and matching colours.

Finally, in perfect harmony with the outside of the car, the special eco-chrome finish reoccurs inside on the air vent surrounds, glove compartment handle, door handles, steering wheel spokes and gear lever surround. The gear lever is made even more exclusive by a crystal effect, methacrylate gear lever knob made to look like a gem stone, reminding occupants of the name of this Lancia show-car.

Source: Lancia

September 12, 2011