Tag: Frankfurt

  • Toyota Will Premiere Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle In Frankfurt

    Toyota FCV-R Concept - Front AngleAt the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show Toyota will premiere its new Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle Concept with the aim to offer one of the best solutions to the challenges of energy sources and emissions. In these terms the hydrogen is the ideal and ultra-clean fuel.

    Another goal that the brand has achieved with this model is to offer a driving range and performance comparable to conventional petrol and diesel engines. The advantage here however is that there is no harmful tailpipe emissions.

    In the vehicle has been utilized Hybrid Synergy Drive technology which is also used in the famous Prius and other full hybrid production models. At first the Toyota FCV-R Concept was unveiled at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. Now the brand continues to make progress towards its planned introduction of an affordable FCHV saloon model by 2015.

    The FCV-R concept is 4,745mm long, 1,510mm high and 1,790mm wide. It achieves a maximum driving range of about 420 miles and doesn’t produce any emissions. The only by-product of the hydrogen fuel cell is water vapour. The twin fuel tanks and the fuel cell stack are positioned beneath the floor. This of course results in no impact on the cabin and load space.

    Toyota FCV-R Concept

    Toyota aims that its FCHVs will be in a mass-market production during the 2020s. In addition, this commercialization will be supported by the wider roll-out of fuel cell vehicle technology as well as the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure.

    The fuel cell which is going to be utilized in Toyota’s production FCHV achieves the world’s highest power output density at 3kW per litre. In addition, it also delivers improved range of the vehicle from about 205 miles to more than 350 miles. What is more, the fuel cell has a greater operating range, with the help of materials in its construction making cold start possible at temperatures around -30°C.

    Toyota’s FCHV has currently a price around US $108 367, however the brand is planning to significantly reduce the cost and make it more affordable.

    Source: Toyota

  • Land Rover Defender Concept DC100 in Frankfurt

    Land Rover took the interesting DC100 Concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The vehicle is practically the new Defender model, which is expected sometimes in 2015, of course, if the world does not end in 2012…

    Here is an interesting video directly from the Auto Show published by Marchettino in Youtube. You can see all the interesting extras of the DC100.

    The SUV is powered by a 2.0 liter petrol engine and a 2.0 liter diesel, which are mated to an 8-speed gearbox.

    As the world is gone mad with the hybrid technologies, both engines will be included in hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains.

    Check out the video, below!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRLK4hvUSL8

    Land Rover Defender DC100 Sport Frankfurt 2011
    Land Rover Defender DC100 Sport Frankfurt 2011

    Source: Marchettino via Youtube

  • 2012 Hyundai i30 at the Frankfurt

    2012 Hyundai i30 is currently exhibited at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

    The hatchback can be ordered with one of six different engines with outputs between 90PS (66 kW) and 135PS (99 kW). The engines can be mated to either 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. This guarantees nice performance and low fuel consumption.

    The suspension includes independent subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers at the front and independent subframe-mounted multi-links, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers at the rear.

    The stopping power is guaranteed thanks to a 15” or 16” ventilated discs up front and 14” solid discs at the rear.

    The wheel choice includes 15”,16” and 17” alloy wheels fitted with 195 / 65 R15, 205 / 55 R16 and 225 / 45 R17, respectively.

    2012 Hyundai i30
    2012 Hyundai i30

    Technical specifications: 2012 Hyundai i30

    Diesel engines

    1,4-litre 90 ps
    Type / capacity U-II, WGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1396 cc
    Power / torque 90 ps (66.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 220 Nm @1500~2750 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 75 x 79
    Compression ratio 17.0

    1,6-litre 110 ps
    Type / capacity U-II, VGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1582 cc
    Power / torque 110 ps (81.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 260 Nm @ 1900~2750 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.2 x 84.5
    Compression ratio 17.3

    New 1,6-litre 128 ps
    Type / capacity U-II, VGT, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1582 cc
    Power / torque 128 ps (94.0 kW) @ 4000 rpm / 260 Nm @ 1900~2750 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77.2 x 84.5
    Compression ratio 17.3

    Gasoline engines

    1,4-litre 100 ps
    Type / capacity Gamma 1.4, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1396 cc
    Power / torque 100 ps (73.2 kW) @ 5500 rpm / 137 Nm @ 4200 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77 x 74.99
    Compression ratio 10.5

    1,6-litre 120 ps
    Type / capacity Gamma 1.6 MPI, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1591 cc
    Power / torque 120 ps (88 kW) @ 6300 rpm / 156Nm @ 4850 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77 x 85.44
    Compression ratio 10.5

    1,6-litre 135 ps
    Type / capacity Gamma GDI, four-cylinder, DOHC 16-valve / 1591 cc
    Power / torque 135 ps (99 kW) @ 6300 rpm / 164 Nm @ 4850 rpm
    Bore x Stroke (mm) 77×85.44
    Compression ratio 11

    Transmissions

    6-speed manual and automatic

    Suspension and damping

    Front Fully independent subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar.
    Rear Fully independent subframe-mounted multi-links, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers.

    Steering

    Type Motor-driven power steering, with Flex SteerTM
    Steering wheel turn 2,85 Turning circle 10,6 metres

    Brakes

    Front 15 / 16 inch ventilated discs
    Rear 14 inch solid discs

    Wheels and tyres

    Standard 15 inch steel / 15 inch alloy 195 / 65 R15 tyres
    16 inch alloy 205 / 55 R16 tyres
    17 inch alloy 225 / 45 R17 tyres

    Exterior

    Overall length 4300
    Overall width 1780 (excluding door mirrors)
    Overall height 1470
    Wheelbase 2650
    Front overhang 880
    Rear overhang 770

    Interior Front Rear

    Leg room 1067 880
    Head room 1018 963
    Shoulder room 1420 1395
    Capacities (litres)
    Fuel tank 53 litre
    Luggage 378 with rear seats upright

    Source: Hyundai

  • 2012 Bentley Continental GTC

    The second generation of Bentley’s iconic Continental GTC convertible will debut at next month’s International Automobile Exhibition (IAA) in Frankfurt.

    Taking cues from its GT coupe sibling launched last year, the new Continental GTC builds on the highly successful foundation of the previous cabriolet, which premiered in 2006. Bentley’s design and engineering teams have improved virtually every aspect of the iconic convertible with an uncompromising focus on quality.

    While the first Continental GTC was elegant and understated, the sharper radii and assertive stance of the new model delivers a more contemporary and muscular presence. Advanced manufacturing techniques produce aluminium front wings without the need for seams or welds creating the look and feel of a coach-built car. Twenty-inch wheels are now standard with three styles of 21-inch wheel, a first for GTC, available as an option, reinforcing the distinctive, sporting stance of the new Bentley.

    The four-seater luxury convertible features a new, even more spacious and sumptuous hand-crafted cabin, with soft-touch leather hides, an extensive range of wood veneers, cool-touch metals and deep-pile carpets. There are 17 standard soft-touch leather hide colours with six colour split combinations, complemented by a range of seven veneers, all produced by Bentley’s talented craftsmen and women.

    2012 Bentley Continental GTC

    The GTC’s renowned coupe-like refinement is also enhanced. The tailored, multi-layered fabric hood is complemented by acoustic glass and under-body panels, for optimum noise isolation.

    Superb everyday practicality for a luxury convertible was a hallmark of the original GTC and much valued by its customers. The cabin of the new GTC is now even more practical, with additional rear legroom, new storage solutions and innovative features such as touch-screen infotainment, automatic seat-belt presenters and a Bentley-designed Neck Warmer for comfortable roof-down motoring whatever the temperature.

    A wider track, front and rear, sharper steering and retuned suspension provides a more exhilarating and class-leading drive. Bentley’s advanced all-wheel drive system features a new 40:60 rear torque bias (compared with 50:50 of the original GTC) minimising understeer during hard cornering and allowing the spirited driver to manage the car’s line and balance via precise throttle control.

    This compelling dynamic package is combined with a more powerful 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12 engine as well as a new QuickShift transmission enabling faster gear changes than ever before. Power output is raised from 560PS to 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and the famed Bentley ‘wave of torque’ has been increased by a further 50Nm to 700Nm (516lb ft).

    Pricing Information

    POUNDS STERLING £149,350
    US DOLLAR $212,800 MSRP
    EURO €170,060
    RENMINBI RMB 3,838,000
    YEN ¥26,400,000

    Pounds Sterling inclusive of 20% VAT.
    Euro price does not include individual market taxation rates.
    US Dollar pricing is exclusive of individual state taxes.

    2012 Bentley Continental GTC – AT A GLANCE

    Sculpted exterior design

    • Advanced production techniques such as aluminium Super Forming (front wings) allow for a more sculpted body and sharp ‘power lines.’
    • Unique jewelled headlamps with LED daytime-running lights.
    • More upright matrix radiator grille and new ‘double horseshoe’ rear profile first shown on the flagship Bentley Mulsanne.

    Luxurious, practical, hand-crafted cabin with class-leading infotainment

    • New interior with a bold, sweeping dashboard and instrument panel finished in premium soft-touch leather.
    • Choice of 17 hide colours, six colour split combinations and seven veneers.
    • Distinctive ‘cobra style’ seats for added comfort and enhanced rear cabin space.
    • A new touchscreen, 30GB infotainment system introduces advanced satellite navigation with dynamic route guidance, seven-digit postcode entry and Google Map compatibility (market specific).
    • Audio systems feature the latest wide-frequency Balance Mode Radiator speakers as standard.
    • Revolutionary Dirac Dimensions™ DSP for exceptional sound reproduction (Naim for Bentley premium audio).

    More powerful 6-litre W12 engine with FlexFuel capability

    • 6-litre W12 engine twin-turbocharged engine produces 575PS (567bhp/423kW) and 700Nm (516lb ft) of torque.
    • FlexFuel capability – runs on E85 biofuel, petrol or any combination of the two.
    • 0 – 60mph 4.5 secs (0-100 km/h 4.8 secs).
    • 0 – 100mph 10.9 secs (0 – 160km/h 10.9 secs).
    • Top speed 195 mph (314 km/h).

    Dynamic Bentley driving experience

    • ZF 6HP28 transmission with ‘Quickshift’ system that cuts shift times by up to 50% and enables double downshifts.
    • New 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system reduces understeer when powering out of bends and provides for better modulation of line and attitude by ‘throttle steering.’
    • Increased front and rear track improves grip and stability.
    • Advanced ESC system fully exploits the potential of the more powerful W12 engine and improved chassis.
    • 20” ‘Five Spoke’ alloy wheels with optional 21” wheels in ‘Five Spoke Two-Piece’, ‘Seven Spoke Elegant’ and ‘Ten Spoke Propeller’ designs.

    TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

    ENGINE

    • Type: 6-litre twin-turbocharged W12
    • Max Power: 567bhp / 423kW / 575PS @ 6000 rev/min
    • Max Torque: 700Nm / 516lb/ft @ 1700 rev/min

    TRANSMISSION

    • ZF 6-speed automatic with quickshift and steering wheel-mounted paddleshift
    • Driveline: Continuous all-wheel drive (40:60 rear bias)

    Ratios:

    • 1st. 4.17
    • 2nd. 2.34
    • 3rd. 1.52
    • 4th. 1.14
    • 5th. 0.87
    • 6th 0.69
    • Final drive: 3.526

    BODY CONSTRUCTION

    • Steel monocoque

    BRAKES

    • Front: 405mm ventilated discs (optional 420mm Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)
    • Rear: 335mm ventilated discs (optional 356mm, Carbon Silicon Carbide, cross drilled)

    WHEELS AND TYRES

    • 9.5J x 20” (optional 9.5J x 21”)
    • Pirelli P Zero 275/40ZR 20 (optional 275/35 ZR21)

    STEERING

    • Type: rack & pinion, power assisted, speed-sensitive ZF servotronic
    • Turns lock to lock: 2.6 turns
    • Turning circle: 11.3m

    SUSPENSION

    • Front: Four link double wishbones, computer controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti roll-bar.
    • Rear: Trapezoidal multi-link, computer-controlled self-levelling air suspension, with anti roll-bar.
    • Damping: Continuous Damping Control, tuned for dynamic performance.


    DIMENSIONS

    • Wheelbase 2746mm
    • Overall Length 4806mm
    • Width (across body) 1943mm
    • Width (including mirrors) 2227mm
    • Overall Height 1403mm
    • Fuel Tank 90 litres
    • Boot Volume 260 litres
    • Kerb Weight (EU) 2495 kg / 5501 lb
    • Gross Vehicle Weight 2900 kg / 6393 lb

    PERFORMANCE

    • Top Speed: 195 mph (314 km/h)
    • 0 – 60 mph: 4.5 secs (0 – 100 km/h: 4.8 secs)
    • 0 – 100 mph: 10.9 secs (0 – 160 km/h: 10.9 secs)
    • 30 – 50 mph: 2.0 secs (60 – 100 km/h: 2.5 secs)
    • 50 – 70 mph: 2.4 secs (80 – 120 km/h: 3.1 secs)

    FUEL CONSUMPTION (EU Cycle) *

    • Urban 11.1 mpg (25.4 l/100km)
    • Extra Urban 24.9 mpg (11.4 l/100km)
    • Combined 17.1 mpg (16.5 l/100km)
    • CO2 emissions 384g/km

    * Fuel consumption figures are provisional and subject to Type Approval

    • FUEL CONSUMPTION (EPA Cycle) **
    • City Driving 11 mpg (US)
    • Highway Driving 19 mpg (US)
    • Combined 14 mpg (US)

    ** Fuel consumption figures are provisional and subject to EPA certification.

    EMISSIONS CONTROLS
    EU 5 and US LEV 11

    Source: Bentley

  • Maserati Grancabrio Fendi Debuts At Frankfurt Motorshow

    The Maserati GranCabrio Fendi designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi was born from the union of two iconic brands of the made in Italy, which share common values such as craftsmanship and tradition.

    A masterpiece of technology and craftsmanship, the Maserati GranCabrio Fendi will be introduced at the Frankfurt MotorShow in September 2011.

    The Maserati GranCabrio Fendi is crafted at the historical Maserati headquarters in Modena, with exclusive materials bespokely created in various colours for this project.

    The three-layered body colour named Grigio Fiamma Fendi is a special dark grey with an iridescent golden finish on the surface. The wood trim Pergamena Fendi runs across the width of the dashboard, on the doors and on the top of the gear lever, all in the iconic FENDI yellow, like the brake callipers and the embroidered yellow trident on the headrests.

    Adding a stronger yet elegant character to the GranCabrio is FENDI’s unmistakable double F-logo, stitched on the seat, also appearing in the centre of the 19-inch Trident design alloy wheels, and the FENDI logo along the rocker panel.

    Maserati Grancabrio Fendi
    Maserati Grancabrio Fendi

    Cuoio Romano, Fendi’s most precious leather of its Selleria line, has been used for such details as the instrument cluster cover, for the gear lever and for the profiles of the floor mats. It also features in the Limited Edition Travel Set of luggage and accessories.

    The Maserati GranCabrio Fendi represents a perfect marriage between the art of a handmade product with the ultimate technology and research of its 4.7-litre V8 engine coupled with automatic transmission, which brings out to life a unique roar, music to the ears of car connoisseurs.

    Silvia Venturini Fendi’s specially crafted logo seals this collaboration. A silver oval plaque with the engraving of the Maserati trident, Fendi logo and the 5-digit series number (five being an iconic number for Fendi) is located on the dashboard, in front of the passenger seat, and on both sides of the black cloth folding roof.

    A special black car cover with a ton-sur-ton double F logo dresses the GranCabrio, hiding this marvellous secret from indiscreet eyes until the very last moment.

    Source: Maserati

  • 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera To Debut At Frankfurt Show

    Porsche is proud to present the new 911 Carrera, a completely new generation of the iconic coupe that has been acclaimed as one of the world’s benchmark sports cars since its launch in 1963.

    Tradition meets modernity
    True to the 911 tradition, the distinctive Porsche design language exudes power and elegance. The unmistakable silhouette still catches the eye while incorporating new, exciting contours and precisely designed details; a 100mm longer wheelbase for improved stability and greater interior space; front and rear overhangs are shorter, maintaining the compact footprint that has been a longstanding 911 attribute; the sporting stance is emphasised by the lower roof line and a wider front track increases on-road presence further still while raising the renowned chassis dynamics.

    The rear-mounted, flat six cylinder engine is an equally symbolic component of the 911 identity; and behind the rear axle of the new car lies an uprated range of powerful, efficient and evocative ‘boxer’ engines. The 911 Carrera is powered by a new 3.4-litre engine developing 350 hp, and the Carrera S features a 400 hp version of the familiar 3.8-litre. These new engines offer performance improvements for both models. The 3.4-litre Carrera with PDK accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.6 sec, 0.1 sec quicker than the prior model. Pressing the Sport Plus button on the optional Sport Chrono Pack cuts that to 4.4 sec. The 3.8-litre Carrera S with PDK can accelerate from 0- 62 mph in 4.3 sec (Sport Plus 4.1 sec), 0.2sec quicker than its predecessor.

    All-new lightweight body
    Principle among the innovative steps forwards is the all-new, lightweight body, featuring intelligent aluminium-steel composite construction. It is responsible for a significant proportion of the vehicle weight reduction of up to 45 kg. The body structure also delivers significantly greater rigidity, and aerodynamic optimisation – including a wider, variably extending rear spoiler – has reduced the lift generated by the new 911 Carrera while retaining an impressive overall drag factor.

    Innovative chassis technology
    That the new 911 offers better acceleration in a straight line goes without saying, but it also offers top performance at an unprecedented level across the entire dynamic repertoire. In addition to the longer wheelbase, the greater agility, precision and driving stability are based, among other things, on the wider front track, a new rear axle and new electro-mechanical power steering.

    Depending on the model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics. That is especially true for the Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) active roll stabilisation system, available for the first time on the 911 Carrera S. The system reduces body roll when cornering, with the result that the tyres are always in the optimal position relative to the road surface and thus able to transmit higher lateral forces. Consequently, maximum cornering speeds are increased, and even faster lap times on racing circuits are possible.

    Exterior design
    The familiar athletic appearance of the 911 is given further dynamism with a 100mm longer wheelbase, reduced height, and up to 20-inch diameter alloy wheels. At the same time, the typically compact exterior dimensions have been retained. Seen from the front, the eye is drawn to the trademark wide-arched wings, emphasising the wider front track and making the new 911 Carrera models adopt a particularly sporting stance on the road. The redesigned exterior mirrors are now mounted on the upper edge of the door and not as before on the mirror triangle. Not only is this aerodynamically advantageous, it also emphasises the new design line and visual impression of width.

    2012 Porsche 911 Carrera
    2012 Porsche 911 Carrera

    Interior design
    To complement the modern exterior, the Porsche designers created an interior style which takes its cue from that of the Porsche Carrera GT. The driver is now even more closely integrated with the cockpit thanks to the centre console rising up to the front with the high-mounted shift lever – or PDK gear selector – located close to the steering wheel in typical motorsport fashion. Classic Porsche style elements are also to be found inside, just as they are on the outside. For example, the instrument cluster with five round instruments, with the central dial naturally the rev counter. On the right is a new, high resolution multi-function screen, just one of the comfort features added to meet evolving customer demands.

    2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Interior
    2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Interior

    Porsche Intelligent Performance
    Setting the standard in its class, as it has for generations, the new 911 Carrera and Carrera S raise the performance and efficiency standard to new levels. Fuel consumption and emissions of all versions are up to 16 per cent lower compared with its predecessors. Among other things, this is achieved by systems and functions such as auto start/stop, thermal management, electrical system recuperation, the world’s first seven-speed manual transmission and – in conjunction with the Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) – a ‘coasting’ function that decouples the engine for enhanced fuel efficiency when the throttle is closed.

    The new electro-mechanical power steering system offers not only the typical precision and feedback expected of a Porsche, but also helps to increase efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. For example, the 911 Carrera with the new 350 hp (257 kW) 3.4-litre direct injection engine and optional PDK returns 34.4mpg Combined based on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) – 6mpg less than its predecessor. Also, at 194 g/km CO2, it is the first Porsche sports car to sit below 200 g/km CO2. In the case of the Carrera S, with its 400 hp 3.8-litre direct injection engine, economy when paired with the optional PDK is increased by 14 per cent, or 5 mpg, to 32.4mpg Combined despite 15 hp more power. That equates to CO2 emissions of 205 g/km.

    Evidently, it has therefore been possible in the new 911 Carrera to extend yet further the span of apparently contradictory attributes such as performance and efficiency, sportiness and everyday usability that has always typified the Porsche 911. It could be said that the new 911 Carrera is thus more of a 911 than ever.

    In the UK from December 2011
    The new Porsche 911 Carrera celebrates its world premiere at the 2011 IAA Frankfurt Motor Show and the new 911 models will be in UK Porsche Centres from December 17 2011.

    The 911 Carrera is priced from ?71,449 and the 911 Carrera S is priced from ?81,242. Standard equipment on all models is leather interior, sports seats, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, 7-inch colour touch-screen Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity, Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and a three year warranty.

    The Carrera S adds 20-inch alloy wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with rear limited slip differential, in addition to the power advantage of the larger 3.8-litre engine.

    Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

    Source: Porsche

  • 2012 Volkswagen Up! – First Photos

    The first photos of the Volkswagen up! have been released, ahead of the new small car making its debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September.

    The up! is an entirely new design, offering maximum space on a minimal footprint (3.54 x 1.64 m), making it ideal for driving in the world’s cities. It will be launched in Europe in December.  There are three versions for different budgets and needs: take up! is the entry-level car, move up! the comfort-oriented model and high up! the top version.  At the car’s market launch, there will also be two models based on the high up!: up! black and up! white.

    Making its debut in the up! is a new generation of three-cylinder petrol engines, with outputs of 60 PS and 75 PS.  Combined fuel consumption as a BlueMotion Technology version (including a Stop/Start system) is 4.2 l/100 km (60 PS), and CO2 emissions for this version are less than 100 g/km.  There are also plans for an up! with electric drive.

    2012 Volkswagen Up
    2012 Volkswagen Up

    An important new safety technology in the up! is the optional City Emergency Braking system.  It is automatically active at speeds under 18mph, and uses a laser sensor to detect the risk of an impending collision.  Depending on speed and situation, City Emergency Braking can reduce accident severity by initiating automatic brake interventions that can even avoid a crash.  So far, the up! is the only vehicle in the segment to be offered with this function.

    At 3.54 metres in length and 1.64 metres in width and 1.48 metres in height, the up! is one of the smallest four-seater cars.  Its overall length consists of short body overhangs and a long wheelbase of 2.42 metres.  Use of space in the car is exceptionally good, because of the wheelbase, which is one of the longest in the segment, combined with an engine that is mounted well forward.  The 251-litre boot is also significantly larger than is typical in this class.  When the rear seat is fully folded, cargo space is increased to 951 litres.

    The interior is as colourful as it is capacious, with either decor paint or body colour (depending on the equipment line) used in the interior, including across the dashboard facia.  The clean and well-organised layout of the interior of the up! also offers clever details, fun styling and a level of quality that will enhance the market segment.

    2012 Volkswagen Up Interior
    2012 Volkswagen Up Interior

    For the first time in a Volkswagen, the maps + more system is now being offered, which is a mobile Personal Infotainment Device (PID).  In the economically priced up!, this is an equally economical system that was developed to organise navigation, telephone, information and entertainment, and was designed in cooperation with Navigon, one of the world’s leading suppliers of navigation systems.  The user simply snaps the PID into place above the centre console.  Unlike many other similar systems of this type, maps + more melds with the car’s network of systems more effectively: navigation, telephone and infotainment can be controlled and viewed via the maps + more touchscreen, which can also be used to view vehicle information, such as the display of the parking sensors (where fitted).  Apps specially developed for the up! also let users extend maps + more to meet their specific needs.

    Source: Volkswagen

  • KIA Four-door Sports Sedan Concept at Frankfurt Motor Show

    Kia will exhibit a new powerful and dynamic four-door sports sedan concept at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The interesting about the vehicle is that it comes with RWD… finally.

    The Concept also features distinctive new design, sleek and muscular proportions with a sophisticated and elegant four-seater cockpit.

    Kia will also bring the all-new Rio and a facelift version of the Kia Soul  at the IAA Frankfurt, so there will be plenty to see at the stand in Hall 3.1, booth A21.

    “No matter from which perspective you look at it – this concept car is roaring with energy and ready for take-off,” commented Peter Schreyer, Kia Motors Chief Design Officer, proudly.

    “I believe the car is a strong statement from Kia: we are ready to fast forward to an all new chapter.”, he finished.

    KIA Four-door Sports Sedan Concept FrontSide
    KIA Four-door Sports Sedan Concept FrontSide

    Source: KIA

  • Volkswagen reveals the zero emission E-UP! Concept

    Most of the cars released from VAG become hit on the market very fast. Because of their reliability, cheap price and nice exterior and interior. Hopefully the E-UP will be a successful, too.

    The small car is powered by an electric motor developing up to 81 PS and 154 lbs ft of torque. With this characteristics the E-UP! can accelerate to 100km/h in 11.3 seconds and the top speed is 135km/h. The overall weight of the vehicle is only 1,085kg of which 240 kilos are batteries. (more…)

  • The new Kia cee’d shows her real face before Frankfurt

    2009 Frankfurt Motor Show is the place where the new Kia cee’d will show her re-engineered and restyled face publicly for the first time. A new ECO-dynamics model will be added to the range of Kia’s top-selling model in Europe.

    The new cee’d is the latest version of the company’s signature grille – an evolving expression of the brand’s design DNA.

    Comprehensively updated, the new Kia cee’d range will deliver a host of customer benefits including numerous exterior and interior design refinements, upgraded standard equipment and technical innovations. The cee’d also gets a fully-revised suspension set-up.

    The changes will also significantly reduce fuel consumption and in the new ‘Intelligent Stop and Go’ ECO-dynamics version to be launched for the first time in the UK CO2 emissions are reduced to 110 g/km. On average emissions will be cut by five per cent across the cee’d line-up.

    Kia Motors UK Limited Marketing Director, Simon Hetherington said: “The new cee’d is 25 mm longer and is more distinctive in appearance with a stronger road presence. Following our established model range line-up, customers will enjoy a thoroughly revised interior including a new-style steering wheel and gear lever, all-red instrument illumination, a new centre console and new audio systems, plus dual-zone climate control air-conditioning.”

    Technical innovations being introduced with new cee’d will include fuel-stretching ISG technology on the 1.6-litre diesel engines for the first time, a “hill-holder” function for the ESP and brighter projection-style headlamps.  The new ‘U2’ 1.6-litre diesel engine will be matched to a new six-speed manual transmission.

    The ‘new look’ Kia cee’d range, which is backed by the company’s unique 7-Year Warranty, will make its world premiere at 13.00 hrs (CET) on 15 September at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show.

    Full UK range details and pricing will be announced prior to the on-sale date.

  • More power and efficiency for next Porsche 911 Turbo

    Porsche is proud to present a new top model at the pinnacle of its broad range of production sports cars; the next generation 911 Turbo.

    All key features of this high-performance sports car have been improved significantly and combine far-reaching technical innovations with supreme refinement. As a consequence, the new 911 Turbo offers increased performance, lower weight, enhanced driving dynamics and greater fuel efficiency. (more…)

  • The New Kia cee’d – First images revealed

    Kia Motors has today released the first pictures of new cee’d, revealing a much improved and updated look including the new ‘family face’ of the brand. This mid-life change unusually includes sheet metal changes to the bonnet plus alterations to the bumper, grille and light clusters.There have been some enhancements to the interior too in terms of specification and design including a more intuitive centre console and upgraded audio system including Bluetooth connectivity.

    Paul Philpott, Managing Director Kia Motors (UK) Limited commented; “Since its launch just over a year and a half ago, cee’d has been instrumental in placing Kia firmly as one of the top five global automakers.  With over 5,000 units already sold in the UK so far this year, cee’d is currently holding a four per cent share of the retail market.

    “cee’d has been one of the first Kia models customers have bought for emotional rather than practical reasons. Now we have other aspirational cars in the range, such as the new Soul, we are establishing a clear image as a design led brand and, with more new introductions due early next year, Kia offers one of the youngest product ranges available” he added.

    The New Kia cee’d

    New cee’d will be unveiled at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show alongside two all-new Kia models.