2012 Geneva Motor Show – Page 5

Lancia at Geneva

Lancia will be bringing a touch of luxury and elegance to the 82^nd Geneva Motor Show with six vehicles at their booth. It is a sort of a reincarnation for the company as it has had a glorious history, then a bit of a decline and now it’s back. Highlights deserve the B segment Ypsilon, the flagship Thema, the Voyager MPV and the not yet released Flavia Cabrio.

Lancia Flavia Cabrio

Yes, the Geneva Show will be a debut for the production version of the Flavia Cabrio – For now the setup destined for this convertible is a 175 HP 2.4 l unit mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. It will be generously equipped with an electronic stability control system, traction control, ABS (naturally), climate control and much much more in the sole trim package offered, baring the name “all inclusive”. At the show, the Flavia Cabrio segment will be represented by two models: one distinguished by a sophisticated Bright White body with interiors in two-tone black/white fine leather and the other characterized by an exterior Mineral Grey paint with black leather interiors.

Lancia Thema AWD

The Thema AWD is basically a Chrysler 300C underneath but is that a bat thing? It has a clever four-wheel drive system and is driven by an aluminum, 286 HP Pentastar V6 3.6 engine. Throw in an 8-speed automatic transmission developed by ZF and you have yourself a perfectly good executive saloon. What image does the Thema radiate? That is pretty much up to the buyer – the car can be customized with several exclusive products, among which are the 18” and 20” rims and three grilles having different colors and treatments.

Lancia Ypsilon

A refreshed 2012 Ypsilon will also be present there – we are talking about new equipment and styling enhancements. The now 5^th Ypsilon meets the “Blue&Me–TomTomLIVE” and “Smart fuel” system”. Furthermore it has Magic Parking, a 500 W 360° Hi-Fi Music system, Xenon headlights and LED taillights.

As a car and not a Playstation, the Ypsilon will also feature a range of drivetrains which come with TwinAir technology or MultiJet II and Start & Stop. All very green stuff really.

The Ypsilon presentation will also foresee the arriving of the Black&Red trim level in all European markets. Again, we have a wide range of drivetrains – a 69 HP 1.2 Fire EVO II, a 85 HP 0.9 TwinAir and a 95 HP 1.3 Multijet II turbodiesel engine. The Black&Red is targeted to the younger generation which will be enchanted by the 360° Hi-Fi Music system, 15″ alloy rims and the tinted windows. Body colors are said to be four but they are frankly shades of black and red while inside we have one choice…. black and red.

Lancia Voyager

At the show, the Lancia Voyager will get two new trim levels – Silver and Platinum. Two new colors (Cashmere Pearl and True Blue) will also be made available. The Premium one displayed at the boot will boas some Alcantra from the inside and it will harbor a 163 HP 2.8L turbo diesel.

Source: Lancia

February 22, 2012

Jeep at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

This year, at the 2012 edition of Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep brand will make an European premiere for the Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept. The vehicle combines exceptional exterior design and sporty appearance combined with the efficiency of the 3.0-litre V-6 CRD engine with Multijet II. Another car to be showcased to the public in Geneva is the new concept version of Jeep Compass model. Another debut, this time only for the European market, will make the new Jeep Wrangler Mountain, which is the new limited edition model of the iconic Wrangler.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept and the Jeep Compass Concept will show the direction in which the Jeep lineup will evolve in 2012. The first one, the Grand Cherokee Concept offers a unique and aggressive flair with exclusive styling cues. Furthermore, it carries an innovative efficient 3.0-litre V-6 turbo-diesel engine with Multijet II technology and delivers 241 hp of power and 550 Nm of torque (190 hp and 440 Nm of torque with the available low-output version of the 3.0-litre). The new sports concept has unique exterior with distinctive design and a lot of Black accents. This streamlined appearance is achieved thanks to the introduction of new roof molding covers that replace the roof rack. The vehicle’s grille surround is in gloss black, and mesh grille texture is in Platinum Chrome. The vehicle sits on 20-inch tires that surround one-of-a-kind Black-gloss aluminum wheels. In addition, there are also black chrome dual exhaust tips included. The interior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee Concept is improved by a leather-wrapped perforated heated steering wheel and ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather and suede seats. To go further into details, the vehicle is powered by the efficient 3.0-litre V-6 turbo-diesel engine with new-generation, 1.800-bar injectors and Multijet II technology. Thank to it, the car can develop maximum power of 177 kW (241 hp) at 4,000 rpm and torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,800-2,800 rpm. All this is paired to the five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). The 3.0-litre CRD powertrain is also offered in a low-output version, with 140 kW (190 hp) of power at 4,000 rpm and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque across 1,600-2,800 rpm. In addition, the vehicle is equipped with the sophisticated Quadra-Trac II® 4×4 system with two-speed transfer case and Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) on both the front and rear axle. This ensures the off-road capability. Ultimate off-road capabilities are accomplished through the assistance of standard Hill Descent Control (for maximum downhill control) and Hill Start Assist (granting a smooth launch on a grade). Furthermore, the equipment for on-board comfort and infotainment offers the latest technology: UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inches touchscreen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port, DVD video and voice activated Bluethooth UConnect Phone, audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon®. Next, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept offers a huge array of advanced safety and security features: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM), ABS with off-road calibration, Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) and 7 airbags (front seat, sidebags, side-curtain front and rear, seat-mounted), Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-path detection.

On the second vehicle – Jeep Compass Concept includes unique Black exterior treatment that delivers a different personality to the compact SUV Jeep. This new look on the exterior includes a number of styling cues and functional elements featuring exclusive black-gloss front-end accents, step pad and 18-inch aluminium wheels. Furthermore, the iconic, seven-slot Jeep front grille boasts black-gloss inserts. The roof rails and step pads also received black-gloss treatment. Next, special 18-inch black–gloss aluminium wheels reinforce the look of the vehicle. The interior of the vehicle is equipped with leather seats, which deliver a touch of exclusiveness to the cabin. The four-wheel-drive configuration of the Jeep Compass Concept is matched to a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine. It develops 163 hp (120 kW) of power and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. A system called active Freedom Drive I is designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions as well as slick roads. The Jeep model also includes diverse equipment: 368-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system with 9 speakers, voice-activated Bluetooth UConnect® Phone with UCI interface and UConnect® multimedia infotainment and navigation system with 6.5” touch screen, 30 gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port and DVD player. Jeep Compass also includes a lot of safety and security features: advanced multi-stage front airbags, side-curtain front and rear air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Assist, Brake Traction Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with rough-road detection and the sophisticated Hill Start Assist system.

The third exclusive premiere which is expected to be seen in Geneva, is the special edition Jeep Wrangler Mountain. This new limited-edition model of the iconic Wrangler pays tribute to outdoor enthusiasts and it is showcased in an all-new Gecko body-color. It is equipped with unique exterior and interior design improved by exclusive styling cues, 17-inch wheels and authentic accessories by Mopar®. The new Mountain edition pays tribute to those who actively practice the outdoors. To be more precise, Jeep Wrangler Mountain is based on the Wrangler Sport model. It will be available with two-and four-door versions. The exterior is absolutely adorable and includes unique Black decal on the hood, front Mineral Gray grille and painted high-gloss Mineral Gray 17-inch wheels. Additional features are the ‘Mountain’ decal over part of the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates side steps and black fuel-filler door from Mopar. The interior is as exclusive as the exterior: it features fabric seats with Slate Grey stitching and embroidered ‘Mountain logo’. Mopar treatment in the cabin consists of tread-pattern slush mats. Additional exterior colors to the all-new Gecko are also available: Black, Bright White, Dozer and Black Forrest Green. Further specifications about the vehicle is that it is powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine producing 200 hp (147) at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque at 1,600-2,600 rpm paired to a five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). In addition, the diesel engine can be also equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. More importantly, available on the new special edition model is the new 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine, which delivers 284 horsepower DIN (209 kW) and 347 Nm (256 lb-ft) of torque and is matched to the automatic five-speed transaxle with ERS. Furthermore, Jeep Wrangler Mountain includes an enhanced Dana 30 front axle and enhanced Dana 44 rear axle. That which enhances its Jeep off-road capability is the standard Command-Trac® NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. The equipment featured in the car comprises in: leather-wrapped steering-wheel with integrated controls, Dual Top configuration, Uconnect® multimedia infotainment, new Winter & Sound Group package, including front heated seats and 368-watt, 6-speaker Infinity audio system.

The Jeep brand aims to offer only styling, functionality, craftsmanship and the highest capability. Every Jeep vehicle delivers an open invitation to all customers, who want to live life to the fullest by offering a feeling of security to handle any journey with confidence.

Source: Jeep

February 21, 2012

Yet Another MINI – The Clubvan Concept

At MINI, a plan for an ultimate automotive integration is under development. We already have the MINI Roadster, Convertible, MINI E, Coupe, Countryman, Clubman and now a new concept: The MINI Clubvan – Moving out with style. Set to debut on the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, this fun yet professional MINI is targeted at an audience which, up until now, never had any use of the brand.

Simply put, the Clubvan is a Clubman with some more loading space and fewer seats. The cargo area starts at the hind split doors and goes all the way to the sole pair of seats at the front but not before being properly separated with a partition grille. As a whole it is well adopted for a variety of goods because of the completely flat floor and the elasticized straps of the six attachment loops recessed into the load compartment floor. That with the solid aluminum base partition and the mesh above make sure things on board do not move about and cause mayham.

From the outside, one notices that the Clubvan still has the mad 5-door set up – one for the driver, two scissor doors for the passenger (despite being rather redundant here) and two rear hinged doors at the back. The Clubvan Concept leaves an impression the way only a MINI can – it lets people know that it is what it is. However, people do not need to know what hides at the back, hence the rear side windows which are mere body panels, Polycarbonate sections coordinated with the body color. At the same time, the backdoor windows are heavily tinted to keep prying eyes away from the precious cargo. That way, more opportunities for customization open as seen in this instance where on the side panels there is the logo of a local company which does signwriting and can write pretty much anything on the car. That makes the Clubvan ideal for small and medium-sized businesses. Imagine a fleet of zippy, frugal and stylish Clubvans going around doing catering or mail deliveries. Electricians and photographers can also use it as a type of personal transport with enough space for personal equipment. This is the new target audience, MINI has been talking about. It is a vision of streets swarming with MINI cars.

Source: MINI

February 20, 2012

BMW Treats at Geneva Motor Show

BMW-Geneva-lineup-shadow BMW is generating some hype before the 82nd Geneva Motor Show by listing all of its entries for this year. The lineup is a complex combination of European and World premiers that radiate innovation, quality, emotion and excitement. The i3 and i8 concepts will also participate in the form of BMW’s future vision of design and mobility. BMW‘s presentations won’t be on wheels only. With an array of original accessories and performance packages such as the “M performance”, the company will try to meet the needs of even the keenest BMW enthusiast. Three new engines for the 3-series sedan will also make an appearance with the prospect of even more to come this year. We do have more detailed articles on most of the vehicles in this list so feel free to browse around and find that which interests you.

World Premiere: the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is a response to the current rivals, the Audi A7 and the Mercedes-Benz CLS. It is a 4+1 Coupe that is supposed to combine the incomparable sporty spirit of the 6-series with the practicality of a sedan. When compared to a standard 6 series Coupe, the Gran Coupe is wider by 4.5 inches and longer by 4.4 – that makes it a big, big car. At the start of this Summer, the Gran Coupe will only be branded 640i because of its TwinPower Turbo, 6-cylinder engine. However, later this summer a V8 650i will also be offered as well as an xDrive 650i. The price of the 640i is the only one given yet – $76,895. Whether this blend of practicality and lunacy has the best of both worlds or the worst, only time will show.

World Premiere: The New 2013 BMW M6 Coupe

Now entering a 3rd generation, the M6 Coupe is here to dominate the world of grand touring with more power, efficiency and dynamics. Thanks to its marvelous V8 M TwinPower Turbo engine and BMW‘s EfficientDynamics, burning rubber has never been that cheap. Torque is conveyed trough a 7-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT) while an Active M Differential optimizes power transfer between the rear wheels. Needless to say that behind all that power and frugality, there is also the backbone of every car – the chassis. It has been tuned by M engineers and employs a Variable Damper Control (VDC) system, DSC, ABS, CBC and DBC. The M6 itself can come as a Convertible if you need wind in your hair and tan on your face.

World Premiere: BMW M Performance Automobiles

BMW M550d xDrive Sedan (2013) — BMW M550d xDrive Sedan (2012)

The “M Performance” niche is a string of xDriven diesels that aims to set new standards. The BMW M550d xDrive, M550d xDrive Touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d do not have the blistering performance of the more powerful M petrol line but they are out there – Under the hood in each and every one, hides a state-of-the-art TwinPower tri-turbo, common rail injected engine that feeds 280 kW/381 hp and 740 Newton meters (546 lb-ft) of power trough an 8-speed sports automatic transmission. And despite the lack of M wheel arches and numerous tail pipes, the M Performance BMWs have M tuned suspensions – subtle, discreet and serious. With that configuration, a BMW M550d accelerates in 4.7 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, while its average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 6.3 liters per 100 kilometers

Premiere: BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Edition

BMW 116d EfficienDynamics Edition (2013)

Porbably the most frugal car in the BMW lineup, the 116d EfficientDynamics Edition is powered by a 85 kW/116 hp TwinPower Turbo diesel engine that goes easy on the fuel (EU test cycle is 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers) thanks to the EfficientDynamics system which incorporates a Stop/Start system and braking energy storage.

World Premiere: The New Updated 2013 BMW X6.

It’s an updated version of the most premium SUV out on the markets. It has poise, it has agility and it has comfort. This ultimate X model comes with xDrive (naturally), still makes use of the company’s Dynamic Performance Control and it utilizes TwinPower Turbo Tech in the form of two engine choices. Visually the 2013 X6 now has bigger kidney nostrils and a better place for its fog lights. At the back, the taillights are also restyled and if that’s not enough light for you, it can be ordered with optional LED Adaptive headlights.

BMW i3 Concept and BMW i8 Concept

Closer than ever to production, the i3 and i8 Concepts are after all still be at the Geneva Show just to amaze the people there. They serve as an example of BMW‘s plan for a sustainable, electric future. Production of the “first electrically powered premium vehicle”, the i3, is expected to start early in 2013 while the plug-in performance hybrid, the i8 might be coming down in 2014.

Other highlights of the BMW booth include the arsenal of originally made accessories for that extra look and feel of the new 3-Series Sedan – anything from unique 20 inch wheels to a fitted indoor/outdoor car cover. There will also be M Performance packages – Parts designed by the M division for the enhancement of standard BMW’s. We are talking about powertrain, suspension, aerodynamics and cockpit components that provide a tangible increase in driving dynamics by enhancing engine power, reducing weight and optimizing aerodynamic properties. Whether we have a 5-series or a-3 series or even the 1s, all parts are designed to belong.

Source: BMW

February 18, 2012

Subaru BRZ, Impreza 5-door First Time in Europe

With the 82nd Geneva Motor Show approaching, more and more information is let loose to the world about premiers and lineups and surprises. Today, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (Subaru makers) confirmed that they will debut (for Europe) “Subaru BRZ” and the “Impreza 5-door”.

The fourth incarnation of the Impreza is designed to be a symbol of reliability, handling and safety. As always it comes with Subaru’s symmetrical AWD and a flat engine. In Europe that engine would be a very green 1.6 petrol that is said prsereve the sporty legacy of the brand. On a side note, the company’s own symmetrical AWD system, which first appeared on the “Subaru Leone Estate Van” in 1972, is turning 40 years this year. So at the Geneva Subaru booth, tech enthusiasts will have the opportunity to visit a gallery illustrating the history of Subaru’s AWD and tryout a 3D virtual thematic game.

The Subaru BRZ, which is almost identical to the Toyota GT 86 but is at the same time somehow better, will also make a European Premiere. This car will be the AWD exception as it is a front engined, RWD composition that throws us back in the days when tail-happy cars were appreciated. That said, it won’t be an uncontrollable lunatic car this, but rather a finely balanced GT car with a low center of gravity. That’s the beauty of a flat engine – it offers flexibility and compactness so the Subaru engineers have put it as low as possible and lo and behold, we have a performance fun house.

Press day for the Geneva Motor Show is set for the sixth and seventh of March and on the eight, the public can join in. The Subaru press conference is scheduled at 11:45am on March 6^th

Source: Subaru

February 10, 2012

Aston Martin V12 Zagato

Behold a finished product – images of the Aston Martin V12 Zagato are here. Geneva Motor Show goers next month will witness the debut while production is set to start later this year. But this not much of a car as it is a blend of complex emotions and passion on wheels.

The V12 Zagato has two tasks to fulfill – 1. it is basically purpose built to honor a generation of magnificent GT cars and the historic DB4GT Zagato in particuliar. 2. it also needs a perspective – setting new boundaries with innovative technology and style is a must if the V12 were to be a success. That’s why it shares so many components with the stunning One-77. In all essence, the V12 is an advanced HP printer in vintage overalls.

Looking at the V12 Zagato we see the exposed elements of carbon fiber on the front splitter, A-pillars, rear lamp pods, diffuser, door mirror cases and rear wing and we get that instant sense of modernity and purposefulness. Yet the bold new grille formed in a unique three-dimensional composite material mesh brings back the Zagato’s famous ‘Z’ moniker.

A pleasant place to be (a wild guess) would be also the inside of the Aston. Satin-finish carbon fibre on the dashboard and center stack is perfectly set next to piano black accents and satin black rotary switchgear. Carbon fiber sill plaques with ’V12 Zagato’ inlaid metal script provide a distinctive finishing touch.

It all sounds rally delightful but there are two problems with it: Price stands at £330,000 ($522,258) so it is pricy. Also it will be extremely rare – no more than 150 will be commissioned.

But when we see how much ‘Soul, Beauty, Power’ goes into making one the steep price kind of makes sense. The process of creating a V12 Zagato takes approximately 2,000 man-hours to complete. Hand-crafted aluminum and carbon fiber are the main composites that form the whole of the car. Hand-stitched quilting adds to the time and effort but it does leave that feel of passion and luxury usually felt with Italian cars. The Aston Martin V12 Zagato however, is all British and it will worth its every penny.

Source: Aston Martin

February 10, 2012

3rd Generation Mitsubishi Outlander at Geneva

A new generation of Outlanders is on its way, was the announcement made today by Mitsubishi. The now third Outlander will be a greener, safer, more clever and comfortable version of its previous crossover incarnations. The 2012 Geneva Motor Show is expected to be the debut site and hopefully reception will be positive.

Dimensions are pretty much the same as the ones the previous Outlanders have and the design is kept simple and clean in tune with a motto that goes: “Solid–Safe–Simple”. Inside it is also function/driving oriented. Sure, there are some “high grade materials” to ornament the cabin but the more prominent stuff includes the ergonomic steering wheel controls and the high-resolution and easy-to-read instrument displays.

Some features bound to make your life easier include: dual zone climate climate control, a third full row of seats, flat-floored cargo area, a tilt & telescopic steering column and a multitude of safety systems that make sure you don’t crash (or at least inform you that you are crashing).

The Outlanders will be available with a 2WD or a 4WD setup while engine lineup initially, in Europe, will consist of two diesel engines: 2.0 l MIVEC petrol and 2.2 l MIVEC Clean Diesel. Depending on market, model, engine and specifications, Auto Stop & Go will be available, as well as an all-new 6-speed automatic gearbox. The eco-conscious customers can rest assured that there will also be a system that monitors the driving style (more precisely – are you getting the maximum efficiency out of the engine). In fact, Mitsubishi say that the new crossovers have target emissions below 130 g/km at best

Since the Outlander’s frame seems ideal enough for experimenting, Mitsubishi are planning to put an EV-based plug-In hybrid powertrain based on the existing EV technology portfolio of the company. It would be nice to see though, how that technology fares when mated to a 4WD system.

Source: Mitsubishi

February 9, 2012

Cruze Station Wagon at Geneva

Geneva this year will see the unveiling of a new type of Chevrolet Cruze – The Cruze Station Wagon. It is here to complement the already best sellers, the hatch and the saloon Cruze, and now, as a whole, Chevrolet can meet the needs of its customers, whatever they might be.

Obviously, the Cruze Station Wagon is betting on space. 1500 liters of cargo space in fact if you top it up. However, dimensions have not changed much. The Wagon stands at 4,678mm in length while the hatch and the saloon are 4,510mm and 4,597mm respectively. It also retains the forms of a Cruze with that tapering single arch roofline which comes with roof rails as standard – convenience and sportiness at the same time. A few details have been changed for the MY2012 – remodeled front fascia, modified head-lamp interiors and fog lamps, and new wheel styles on the exterior and refinements to the center console and a greater choice of seat finishes for the interior.

Engine choice is said to be wide. The one mentioned is the new 130bhp 1.7-litre VCDi diesel engine which has a Stop/Start technology working along side it and thus the CO2 emissions equal to 119g/km.

Source: Chevrolet

February 9, 2012

Vauxhall at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

At this years Geneva Motor Show, the brand Vauxhall is going to unveil stunning new models. The long awaited Astra VXR and Vauxhall Mokka are going to enter the market with their sharp design.

Firstly, the most powerful Astra ever made will make its show debut. The vehicle is based on the GTC’s platform and powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection engine. Hence, the Astra VXR produces 280PS (206 kW) of power and a mighty 400Nm of torque, achieving the top speed of 155mph. In addition it has been improved with some substantial chassis modifications, transforming it into a focused, high-performance coupe. Furthermore there was specially developed a mechanical limited slip differential, which works on the front wheels. In combination with the GTC’s sophisticated HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut), the LSD provides the Astra VXR with exceptional lateral grip and traction through bends. Further changes to the chassis feature brakes developed by Brembo, and an adaptive FlexRide system. The latte features not only a Sport button, but also a VXR button, offering drivers the choice of two, more focused stages of damper, throttle and steering control.

Next comes the Vauxhall’s Mokka entry which will break new ground for the company. This is Vauxhall’s new small SUV which will be unveiled in Geneva. The Mokka will be available with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel drive system automatically transfers power to the wheels that need it most when grip levels are tested to the extreme. It is offered with three efficient engines, all equipped with fuel saving Start/Stop technology: the petrol 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated engine, another petrol 1.4-litre Turbo, and a diesel one – 1.7 CDTI turbo. All engines can be combined either with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmissions. Moreover the Vauxhall Mokka brings cutting-edge technologies to the SUV B-segment. The first reason for this is the Advanced Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+). It increases driving safety based on the third-generation bi-xenon lighting system that includes High Beam Assist (HBA). There is also available a front camera system which gives the driver access to a number of functions including Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Alert (FCA) and second generation Traffic Sign Recognition. Undeniably, the Mokka model is very attractive. The Mokka’s rugged character is reinforced by its higher ground clearance as well as a 1540mm track. In addition, its appeal is further enhanced by the 18-inch alloy wheels which are standard on most models.

At the Geneva Show as well will be the debut of Vauxhall’s most powerful diesel car., which produces 195PS (143 kW), 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque and emissions as low as 129g/km. The car is known under the name Insignia BiTurbo and it is available with a choice of five-door Hatch and Sports Tourer bodies in SRi, SRi Vx-line and Elite trims. This turbocharged diesel is based on the existing 1956cc unit which powers key models in the Insignia, Astra and new Zafira Tourer range. Nevrtheless, the BiTurbo engine produces up to 35PS more power and a significant 50Nm of extra torque, reducing the 0-100 km/h time by nearly one second to 8.2 seconds (Insignia FWD Hatch). In addition, due to the package of eco features, the FWD Hatch achieves a combined 57.6mpg, 2.2mpg better than the single-turbo 2.0 CDTi 160PS model. Furthermore there is also included the clever FlexRide adaptive damping as a standard. The system reacts within milliseconds to driver inputs and can ‘learn’ how the car is being driven and adapt damper settings accordingly. Drivers can also select Tour and Sport buttons, and configure the throttle, steering and damper settings in Sport mode separately. Moreover the FlexRide is integrated with the car’s Torque Transfer Device (TTD) and the rear axle’s electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential (e-LSD). All this allows the torque to be automatically transferred between front and rear wheels, and between left and right wheels on the rear axle, offering exceptional levels of traction, grip and control. For the safety of the passenger is featured the option of Vauxhall’s new Front Camera System, with traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Source: Vauxhall

February 8, 2012

Ford B-Max at Geneva

Good news for family people as Ford are planning to unveil a production-ready B-MAX at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. It is a debut that comes exactly one year after the concept debut at the previous Geneva Show. The multipurpose vehicle will come with a sensible, clever drivetrain lineup and an even more clever design.
The innovative 1.0 EcoBoost petrol unit we talked about a few days ago, will be available for the B-MAX range and so will be the Duratorq TDCi diesel plants. Sales in Europe are expected to start later this year.
Ford CEO and President Alan Mulally himself will drop the curtain at the unveiling. Also present, will be the chairman and CEO of Ford Europe Stephen Odell who already sounds excited enough:

“The B-MAX combines an exciting, innovative design with features that only previously have been found in bigger cars,” said Odell. “It’s a brand new car that responds to the needs of an increasing number of customers who want much more from their small cars.”

It’s the design that gets us though. Ford say that the B-MAX boasts a class-leading load-space and flexibility, a highly configurable environment and clever pillar design but what we really can’t get enough of are the sliding rear doors which bring to mind other clever MPV’s such as the Peugeot 1007 and the bigger brother, Ford C-MAX.

Source: Ford

February 1, 2012

Skoda Citigo 5-door World Debut at Geneva

The 2012 Geneva Motor Show will no doubt bring excitement to all rubber-burning, rev counting motoring enthusiasts. But a motor show isn’t a genuine one without some space for practicality and sensibility. That is why Skoda is world premiering the 5-door Citigo sub-compact car there. It’s a boxy little thing that is designed to be simple, neat and easy to live with.

Power, which isn’t much, comes from a 3-cylinder, 1.0 Litre petrol engine and amounts to 44 kW/60 hp or 55 kW/75 hp. (power variations of the same engine).In its most eco-friendly form, the Green tec variant, the new Citigo achieves 4.1 l/100 km or around 69 mpg. CO2 emissions in the new Skoda are just bellow 100g/km. In the world of today, the Citigo makes a lot of sense as it counters fuel prices, congestion and overall vehicle expenses.

If one does think about it, the Citigo doesn’t need power in excess as it hasn’t got a big bulky body and a handful of luxuries to carry around. Skoda say that inside it is as roomy as possible but how roomy can that be? The features listed as “ingenious” include net holders, a photo/document holder and a bag hook on the glove compartment – hardly technical innovations. But while the Citigo lacks luxury flash, it does make up for it by being a proud holder of a 5 star Euro NCAP safety rating. So this is what the Citigo really is – “simply clever” and no more.

At its home market this member of the Skoda family has recently become the Best City Car in the largest Czech automobile poll, the Car of the Year 2012. Now the company is aiming at broadening it’s market outside of the Czech Republic. It is all part of an overall growth plan that will hopefully culminate in 2018 when Skoda annual shipments reach the 1.5 million mark. City cars such as the Citigo are the backbone of every successful company which produces great cars for all kinds of people.

Source: Skoda

January 30, 2012

Vauxhall 18-way adjustable ultimate hot seats

Vauxhall will introduce their most powerful Astra VXR at the Geneva Motor Show with front seats that are substantially lighter thanks to cutting-edge technology. The hot seats have a lower seating position and enhanced side support to cater for increased cornering loads.

The special technology includes an injection moulded sheet in the seat shells, which reduces their weight by 45% compared with a conventional shell. The sheet is filled with a composite material made from polyamide and fibreglass, and its strength and agility means that it only needs to be 2-3 mm deep, and therefore a lot lighter.

Bringing driver and front passenger lower to the Astra VXR’s centre of gravity, the new seats are mounted 17 mm lower than in the Astra GTC, and 40 mm lower than in the Astra Hatch. In addition, the new seats can be adjusted up to 18 ways, depending upon specification:

•   Entire seat backwards and forwards (2)
•   Entire seat upwards and downwards (2)
•   Seat backrest forwards and backwards (2)
•   Seat cushion angle adjustment (2)
•   Seat cushion length adjustment (2)
•   Four-way lumbar support adjustment (4)
•   Adjustable side bolster support in back (2)
•   Adjustable side bolster support in seat cushion (2)

Pneumatically adjustable cushions, found in the seats’ flanks, add further levels of adjustability at the push of a button, and provide ‘tailor-made’ seating comfort and security normally reserved for competition drivers.

The new 2012 Vauxhall Astra VXR will come with extremely powerful engine with 280PS and 400Nm. It will also feature LSD on front wheels and Brembo brake system.

Vauxhall 18-way adjustable ultimate hot seats

Source: Vauxhall

January 25, 2012

Tag: 2012 Geneva Motor Show