Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro - exceptional performance and breathtaking dynamism

Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro

Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro - exceptional performance and breathtaking dynamism coupled with the intense sensations of open-top driving. Its lightweight cloth top opens and closes fully automatically; several body parts are made of a carbon fiber composite material.

The top, which comprises an outer skin of a leakproof textile fabric and the headliner, is fully compatible with high-speed driving. When driving at moderate speeds with the top up, interior noise levels in the Audi R8 Spyder are barely higher than in the Coupé.

Close attention to detail: the design
Numerous details demonstrate that the Audi designers put their hearts into the design of the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. The air inlets in the nose, which direct air across the three radiators, and the lip of the front skirt are painted high-gloss black. The struts in the broad, low, single-frame grille are finely coated with chrome. The standard full-LED headlights are technical works of art.


Sporty luxury: the interior
The open-top two-seater from Audi features a generously spacious interior. The three-spoke leather multifunction sport steering wheel is flattened at the bottom as in a race car, and the low-mounted, electrically adjustable seats guide and support the body perfectly.

Quality of fit and finish is extraordinary and the controls are clear and logical. The standard driver information system includes a lap timer for recording lap times. The instruments and the gear lever knob feature red rings. The pedals, the footrests and the shift paddles of the optional R tronic are in aluminum look. Highlighting the list of standard equipment are a generous full-leather package featuring Fine Nappa leather, an excellent sound system from Bang & Olufsen, a deluxe automatic air conditioning system and heated seats. Six different interior colors are available.

Door sill strips coated with aluminum and adorned with black satin finish applications impart an air of luxurious sportiness. Three storage compartments are integrated into the rear bulkhead, one of which contains the optional CD changer or Audi music interface, if desired. There is a front compartment for 100 liters (3.53 cu ft) of luggage.

The latest version of the navigation system plus with MMI operating logic is also standard in the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. It features higher resolution and particularly fast route calculation. The system's most visible new feature is the high-resolution, 6.5-inch display.

Uncompromising power: the engine
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro, which was developed in cooperation with quattro GmbH, dazzles with uncompromising performance. The V10 engine with the aluminum crankcase, much of which is hand-built, follows in the grand motorsports tradition at Audi.

The 5.2-liter engine features FSI direct fuel injection. The high 12.5:1 compression ratio that this enables contributes to the high performance and good fuel efficiency. Equipped with a manual transmission, the Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro consumes an average of 14.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (15.79 US mpg) - a good figure given its power. With R tronic, this figure improves to 13.9 liters (16.92 US mpg). Dry sump lubrication, another motorsports technology, ensures that the supply of oil is maintained even at the maximum lateral acceleration of 1.2 g.

Dazzling performance: the chassis
The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro has a 2.65-meter (8.69-ft) wheelbase and a 43:57 axle load distribution. Like in a race car, there are double triangular wishbones made of aluminum at all four wheels. The hydraulic rack-and-pinion power steering conveys highly precise road contact.

The chassis is tuned for good comfort, thanks in part to standard Audi magnetic ride technology. This uses magnetic fields in the shock absorbers to adjust their response to road conditions within milliseconds and adapt to the driver's style. The driver can choose between two base characteristics. A sports suspension with conventional shock absorbers is available as an option.

The Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro is built by quattro GmbH at the Neckarsulm plant. The vehicle, including the ASF, is largely hand-built. The open-top two-seater will be launched in Germany in the first quarter of 2010. Its base price 156,400 euros.

Acura TL - with projected EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Acura TL

Powertrain

A choice of two different all-aluminum VTEC engines enables the new 2009 Acura TL to satisfy a wide range of customers. Standard is a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque that sends power to the front wheels through Acura's sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel- mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Though powerful, the new engine is also fuel efficient, with projected EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The engine is targeted to meet California's tough CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification standards, thanks to features including a Drive-by-Wire throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) and Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) for the intake valves.

Serious performance-sedan devotees will choose the Acura TL SH-AWD to make winding roads their own. Its all-new 3.7-liter V-6 engine produces 305 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque courtesy of greater displacement and additional high-performance features like Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) on both the intake and exhaust valves, and a special high-flow dual exhaust system.

Acura TL's performance achievements extend to durability, reliability and refinement as well. Both engines feature electronically controlled engine mounts to reduce engine noise, vibration and harshness (NVH); quiet and efficient Electric Power Steering (EPS) and maintenance-free serpentine accessory belt also boost operating refinement. A standard Maintenance Minder™ system and up to a 100,000-mile tune-up interval offer further time and cost savings for the Acura TL owner.

The standard transmission on the 2009 Acura TL and TL SH-AWD is a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic featuring F1-style steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Merging the convenience of an automatic with the enjoyment of SportShift manual gear selection, the transmission also features an overdriven top gear for maximum fuel efficiency on the highway. In fact, the Acura transmission has the widest gear-ratio spread of any 5-speed transmission in its class, providing strong acceleration in lower gears and relaxed, fuel-efficient highway cruising.


Body/Chassis
Major improvements in structural engineering for the unit-body further define the 2009 Acura TL. The list of substantial changes begins with the relocation of frame rails inside (rather than underneath) the vehicle's floor pan, resulting in a nearly flat body underside. Benefits of this design include improved crash safety, a significant reduction in interior noise levels, and reduced aerodynamic drag that helps enhance fuel economy.

Further improving ride quality and road-holding are new dual-stage "blow off" style hydraulic suspension dampers, new hydro-compliant bushings (used to mount the transmission and key suspension components) and a new "smart" engine mount design. On the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) model, more performance-minded suspension and brake tuning, larger wheels/tires, racing-inspired front brake cooling ducts, and specially-tuned Electric Power Steering (EPS) take the enthusiast's driving experience to an even higher level.

Exterior/Interior
An evocative and powerful exterior body design dramatically advances the Acura TL's image as a performance luxury sedan. Designed by Acura in Southern California, the Acura TL utilizes an array of styling techniques to express motion - and emotion - even when the car is at rest. Featuring Acura's new signature front grille, body sides defined by strong character lines, sweeping C-pillars and new LED taillights, the Acura TL is simultaneously Acura and yet wholly unique. Plentiful use of luxury and performance features add visual appeal while adding to the Acura TL's vigorous statement - including bright HID projector-beam front headlights, pronounced wheel arches, a standard power moon roof and genuine stainless-steel body trim.

Wheels and tires are as expressive as the exterior styling. Standard on the Acura TL are 17-inch aluminum wheels with P245/50R17 all-season Bridgestone Turanza or available Michelin Pilot tires for confident year-round performance. The Acura TL SH-AWD comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels with lower-profile P245/45R18 Michelin Pilot tires for more agile handling. Finally, the Acura TL SH-AWD offers available 19-inch aluminum wheels with aggressive P245/40ZR19 Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 summer tires for the ultimate Acura TL performance experience.

Acura's commitment to luxury and technology becomes apparent from the first moment the driver's door is opened. With sweeping shapes, generous use of premium materials and passionate attention to detail, the Acura TL rewards the discriminating eye. The design and execution of the interior is an artful combination of leather surfaces, accented by metallic and wood-pattern trim. An impressive array of premium standard features includes a power moonroof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way adjustable (8-way power seat with 2-way power lumbar support) driver seat, 8-way adjustable power front passenger seat, and steering-wheel-mounted F1-style paddle shifters for the Sequential Sport Shift automatic transmission. An 8-speaker, 276-watt audio system that includes a 6-disc CD changer, AM/FM radio, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth Audio, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, and Hands Free Link wireless telephone interface are standard.


Safety
Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) represents a major advance in structural engineering for the 2009 Acura TL. In simple terms, ACE better dissipates crash energy in a severe frontal collision through the use of dedicated load-bearing frame structures that efficiently distribute crash energy through the body structure-while also helping to preserve the integrity of the passenger compartment. Acura first introduced ACE to the Acura line for the 2005 model year and its inclusion in the 2009 Acura TL means that every vehicle in the Acura model range now has this advanced safety engineering.

6 airbags and a new active head restraint system for the driver and front passenger headrests top the long list of passive safety features built into the new Acura TL. The airbag array includes dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, new dual-chamber front seat side airbags with front passenger seat Occupant Position Detection System, along with side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions. Additional passive-safety features include 3-point seatbelts and head restraints for all seating positions, driver and front passenger seatbelt load-limiters with an automatic tensioning system and a Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system that permits quick, secure attachment of up to two child seats in the rear seating area.

Suzuki Kizashi Concept - known for excellence

Suzuki Kizashi Concept

The Suzuki Kizashi Concept gives a glimpse of the direction Suzuki will be taking in the third phase of their world strategy.

Though Suzuki is known for excellence in compact cars and full-fledged four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicles, we're now getting ready to expand into full-size passenger cars, and the Suzuki Kizashi Concept highlights this exciting new initiative. In the Suzuki Kizashi Concept, strength and flexibility are combined in a way that makes the car an impressive status symbol for its owner; a car that never fails to stir the spirit.

Volvo C70 - elegant coupe

Volvo C70

The Volvo C70 is in actual fact two attractive cars in one. It is as much an elegant coupe as it is a sporty convertible. With the same gentle, clean lines in both versions. Above all, however, the Volvo C70 is a car to enjoy. For people who reward themselves with the best in life.

"The Volvo C70 has classic convertible lines and a strong identity of its own. What we have done is to carefully redesign the front and rear so they harmonise more with both today's and tomorrow's Volvo models. We have also increased the exclusiveness of the materials and trim details to enhance the atmosphere of luxury and enjoyment inside the car," explains Fedde Talsma, Exterior Chief Designer at Volvo Cars.

Modernised, self-assured front

With its new front, the Volvo C70 reveals traces of the Volvo S60 Concept Car that was unveiled in early 2009. Thereby the Volvo C70 is upgraded to relate more closely to the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo model range

Bodywork details such as the front wings have also been redesigned, contributing to the decidedly altered appearance. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlamps and the décor around the foglamps, for instance, have been angled offset up and to the rear, at the same time as the detailing of the lower grille has been enhanced.

The Volvo C70
The new Volvo C70 launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September 2009 has the same smart three-piece steel roof, practical seating for four adults and world-leading convertible safety as before. With an updated design and elevated premium feel, the Volvo C70 also delivers an "I want" aura of absolute world class.

Modernised, self-assured front
With its new front, the Volvo C70 reveals traces of the Volvo S60 Concept Car that was unveiled in early 2009. Thereby the Volvo C70 is upgraded to relate more closely to the design language of the larger cars in the Volvo model range


The bodywork details such as the front wings have also been redesigned, contributing to the decidedly altered appearance. The nose is more wedge-shaped and has been given added three-dimensional depth by moving some elements of the front both longitudinally and vertically. The new headlamps and the décor around the foglamps, for instance, have been angled offset up and to the rear, at the same time as the detailing of the lower grille has been enhanced.

Renault Clio

Renault Clio 2009

The 2009 Geneva Motor Show sees Renault take the wraps off the latest hatchback and estate versions of the best-selling Renault Clio. New Renault Clio's styling, comfort, versatility, safety credentials and equipment, which form a package worthy of that of models from the next segment up, are sure to appeal to a large, loyal customer base worldwide. At the same time, its extremely rigorous build quality makes it one of the most reliable cars of its class.

A compact hatchback with clear family ties with New Renault Mégane

New Renault Clio GT, a more purposeful personality

Styling: New Renault Clio GT can be recognized by its exclusive Malta Blue body colour and expressive, racy lines. It sits squarely on its 16-inch "Dark Anthracite" aluminium alloy wheels, while its more assertive front end features a gloss black grille and distinctive black headlamp masks. The lines of the sills point to the performance of the GT version's specific suspension. Meanwhile, the twin exhaust tailpipes and rear lip spoiler underline New Renault Clio GT's undeniable sports tourer looks. Inside, eye-catching sporty details include drilled aluminium pedal covers and extra side support for the seats, as seen on New Clio Renault Sport, plus GT-badging for the front seats.

Suspension: Renault Sport Technologies' engineers have paid special attention to ensure that New Renault Clio GT's chassis combines first class dynamic ability with a comfortable ride.

Powertrains: the GT version is available with a choice of three engines (depending on market): the 1.6 16V 128 (exclusive to New Renault Clio GT), the 2.0 16V 140 and the dCi 105. They all drive through the TL4 six-speed gearbox.

Carminat TomTom: the first updatable, integrated GPS navigation system for less than €500

New Renault Clio's interior styling: perceived quality and user friendly

New Renault Clio's interior styling was guided by a desire to provide a sense of well-being and perceived quality. The dashboard is available with a soft-touch finish and incorporates clear, easy-toread instruments, while the fully-integrated screen of the Carminat TomTomsatnav system is positioned at the top of the centre console. New Renault Clio is a car in which drivers feel immediately at home. The practical controls have been made even more user-friendly, including the short steering wheel-mounted stalks. The switch for the cruise control and speed limiter has been moved to the centre console, alongside the parking brake, and the dashboard display permits drivers to check whether the cruise control/speed limiter is activated or not.

Grand tourer quality acoustic performance

New Renault Clio claims soundproofing performance from the next segment up. Its architecture has been carefully engineered to filter out engine and transmission-generated noise, as well as road noise. Care has also been taken with the sound damping between the cabin and the engine, while wind noise has been reduced thanks notably to the use of inflatable inserts in the structure's hollow sections.

Efficient suspension performance for a comfortable, reassuring ride

The New Renault Clio family delivers a carefully-honed balance between rigorous, comfortable and safe handling. The suspension has been developed to meet the expectations of the customers of the different versions (Hatchback, GT, Estate). The suspension of New Renault Clio Hatchback is identical to that of Clio III and provides a high standard of efficient, comfortable roadholding. Compared with the hatchback version, New Renault Clio Estate is equipped with a bigger-diameter rear anti-roll bar (21mm) for enhanced control of body roll. Its dampers and suspension travel have also been adapted to match the estate version's heavier weight and extra carrying capacity.

 

Responsive, environmentally-friendly engines

The range of engines and transmissions has been carefully selected to bring out the best in New Renault Clio's dynamic performance. These powertrains are respectful of the environment, too, thanks notably to:

* a choice of dCi engines, two of which emit less than 120g of CO2/km (e.g. the dCi 85: 117g of CO2/km) and the availability of a particulate filter for a certain number of them,

* the TCe 100, which boasts the lowest CO2 emissions of any 100hp petrol engine,

* a 1.2 16V engine capable of running on alternative fuels, namely an E85 bioethanolcompatible version and an LPG version.

A raft of equipment from the next segment up

The New Renault Clio range includes a long list of equipment from the next segment up aimed at either facilitating driving or enhancing travelling comfort. New Renault Clio is the only B-segment model that can be ordered with a hands-free card. To unlock the car, the driver only has to put a hand near one of the door handles, or else activate the boot opening mechanism. The doors automatically lock at the push of a button situated on the driver's door. A remote lighting function enables owners to locate their vehicle at a distance thanks a bespoke button on the card which activates the lights. For hands-free starting, the card doesn't need to be inserted into a slot; its mere presence inside the cabin suffices thanks to special antennae.

The new Renault Clio comes with the new 80W RadioSat Classic audio system which includes six loudspeakers, an MP3-compatbile CD player, the display of MP3 file names and an RCA socket situated in front of the gear lever.

The Bluetooth function permits hands-free use of the telephone using the vehicle's own loudspeakers for enhanced safety. The system automatically detects the telephone when the driver starts the car, while Renault's exclusive 'hold' function puts callers on hold until the driver is in a position to answer safely. Incoming and outgoing calls automatically mute the radio and the telephone's functions are controlled via the steering wheel-mounted controls in conjunction with the dashboard display or Carminat TomTom screen.

The Bluetooth function also incorporates audio streaming, in other words the wireless transmission via the vehicle's own loudspeakers of personal playlists stored on A2DPcompatible portable players.

Other equipment

For enhanced comfort and safety, New Renault Clio is equipped with the follow equipment :

* cruise control with speed limiter,

* additional cornering lights

* rear parking proximity sensor,

* a combined rain/light sensor which automatically switches on the headlamps and/or activates the windscreen wipers at the ideal wipe-speed.

Safety: a priority for Renault, and a self-evidence for New Renault Clio

The New Renault Clio family benefits from Renault's extensive expertise when it comes to active and passive safety.

The combination of New Renault Clio's suspension and a range of driver aids (ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, emergency brake assist, ESC, traction control, engine torque overrun regulation) ensures an outstanding level of active safety.

Porsche Panamera - brand-new and truly different

The Porsche Panamera designers have succeeded in positioning it as a brand-new and truly different model while retaining the looks of a typical Porsche. Through its proportions, the Porsche Panamera stands out in its market segment: measuring 76 inches wide and 55.8 inches in height, it is wider and lower than comparable four-door models. The unmistakable GT silhouette is created by the car's overall length of 195.7 inches and short, sporting overhangs. In its styling and details, the Porsche Panamera follows the design philosophy refined over decades on the 911 and successfully implemented on the Boxster, Cayman and Cayenne.

Pure Porsche DNA and comfort for four

Through its design language, the Porsche Panamera establishes a new segment. The symbiosis of sports car DNA derived from the looks of a coupe, the unique interpretation of the classical saloon body and the benefits of a variable space concept give the new Porsche a truly unmistakable appearance. The Porsche Panamera comes with strongly contoured air intakes instead of a conventional radiator grille. Striking wheel arches and the long and sleek engine compartment - with the distinctly contoured wings flanking the flat front lid - create the typical 911 "landscape" Porsche customers have appreciated for over 45 years. V-shaped seams along the hood and a rear window that tapers like an arrow to the rear also are characteristic of a sports car. Muscular shoulders over the rear wheels, the sweep of the coupe-like roofline and visible tailpipes again bear the thoroughbred Porsche DNA.

The an elegant roof arch extends over the generous interior. Thanks to the unique and sporting architecture of the interior, the car's occupants are able to experience a cockpit-like atmosphere from all four seats. All occupants enjoy supreme comfort in both the front seats and the two contoured rear seats. The luggage compartment easily takes all passengers' luggage; the Panamera's variable space concept with folding rear backrests enables driver and passengers to adjust the luggage space to individual requirements. Finally, the coupe tailgate in the sporting rear end combines everyday usability with stylish elegance.

The Porsche Panamera built in Leipzig; powerful engines hail from Zuffenhausen.
Porsche has developed powerful and up-to-date engines for the Panamera, reflecting the qualities typical of the brand; the V-engines come with six and eight cylinders and output ranges from 300 to 500 horsepower. Some engines use turbocharging technology and Direct Fuel Injection, making them both fuel-efficient and very powerful. Power flows to the wheels through either a manual six-speed gearbox or Porsche's seven-speed PDK Doppelkupplungsgetriebe, or Double-Clutch Gearbox.

Madza RX 8, Drive It

RX-8 - Spy Photos

Jaguar S-Type - Cars is proud to unveil

Jaguar S-Type 2008

Jaguar Cars is proud to unveil the new 2008 Model Year S-TYPE range, which comes with a host of exterior and interior design changes as well as a series of new standard and optional features.

The latest S-TYPE continues to be loved and admired by customers throughout the world, attracted on an emotional level by its spirit of individuality, iconic design and sporting performance. There is also a rational attraction as well, with the recent addition of the acclaimed twin-turbo 2.7-litre diesel engine which offers outstanding performance alongside superb fuel economy.

For the 2008 Model Year, all S-TYPE versions feature an updated front end, with the addition of the sporting S-TYPE R bumper and mesh grille to all models. The new-look front is more contemporary, giving every S-TYPE a more poised and dynamic appearance.

The S-TYPE's interior is also upgraded, with the introduction of multi-function Sport seats (with non-perforated leather) instead of the previous Classic seat for all SE and Sport models. Entry-level S-TYPE models come with a leather-trimmed steering wheel as standard, while a new Satin Mahogany veneer is available as an option across the range. Choice is further extended with the option of a beautiful new Ivory and Charcoal leather colour combination for SE models.

Technical innovation is part of the S-TYPE's appeal and every new model will now come with Rear Park Assist as standard.

2008 Model Year S-TYPE at a glance

= Executive Jaguar saloon with four engine variants including class-leading 2.7-litre twin-turbo diesel, 3.0-litre V6 petrol and renowned 4.2-litre naturally aspirated and supercharged V8s

= Streamlined styling combined with advanced technology and legendary Jaguar ride and handling make the S-TYPE the epitome of the contemporary, sporting Jaguar saloon

= From the top-of-the-range 400bhp (DIN), 155mph supercharged S-TYPE R which is capable of 60mph in just 5.3 seconds to the highly acclaimed twin-turbo 2.7-litre diesel which offers a 0-60mph time of just 8.1 seconds yet returns 41.5mpg on the combined fuel economy cycle, outstanding Jaguar innovation is clear across the range

= The diesel-engined S-TYPE is offered with either a much-admired six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. The 3.0-litre petrol is available with either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox, while both 4.2-litre V8 models are equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission

= AJD-V6 diesel engine is the lightest unit of its type and size, weighing just 202kg

= Latest generation, high pressure, common-rail direct-injection technology, including 'multiple pilot' injection with piezo-electric control, ensures maximum efficiency

= Maximum power of 152kW (207PS) EEC, 153kW (206bhp) DIN and maximum torque of 435Nm (320lb ft) make this a diesel Jaguar with real performance: a top speed of 230kph (143mph), and 0-100kph (0-60mph) in just 8.5 (8.1) seconds in the manual version and 8.6 (8.2) seconds in the auto

= An impressive combined fuel economy figure of 6.8l/100km (41.5mpg) with manual gearbox, and a low CO2 figure of only 179g/km

= Comprehensive safety features in every S-TYPE include front, side and side-curtain airbags, Jaguar's Adaptive Restraint Technology System (A.R.T.S.) and Anti-lock Braking System

= Wide range of standard interior features in every S-TYPE including automatic climate control with dual zone control for driver and front passenger, Rear Park Assist, electrically adjustable seats, multi-function steering wheel controls for audio, cruise control and (where fitted) Bluetooth telephone connectivity and voice control, trip computer, Jaguar Alpine Sound System with AM/FM radio and single slot CD player

= Comprehensive security system includes remote central locking and driveaway locking, ultrasonic intrusion sensing, radio frequency remote control and engine immobiliser (Thatcham 1 approved)

= Key optional features include 19-inch wheels across the range, electrically adjustable pedals, Front Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Alert, in addition to existing driver aids.

Civic Type-R - car Inside