Lexus RC F GT3 Concept, 2014

The World premiere of the new Lexus RC F GT3 concept at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show signals Lexus' intent to support GT3 sports car racing in 2015.

Jointly developed over two years by Lexus International and its subsidiary Techno Craft, and built by the latter in Japan, the RC F GT3 concept is based on the new RC F coupe, the most powerful V8 performance car yet developed by Lexus.

4705 mm long, 2000 mm wide, 1270 mm high and with a wheelbase of 2730 mm, the RC F GT3 concept is wider and lower that the standard RC F, yet, with the interior stripped to racing specification, weighs just 1,250 kg.

A modified version of the RC F's V8 engine develops some 540 DIN hp.

The launch of the RC F GT3 concept marks the start of a long-term commitment to GT3 racing by Lexus. Testing will begin this year, with a view to supporting sports car racing teams participating in 2015 GT3 racing open to cars in this category.

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Kia GT4 Stinger Concept, 2014

 

 

 Kia GT4 Stinger Concept, 2014

The Kia Racing and partner Kinetic Motorsports captured the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge Drivers and Team Championships in 2012 with the Forte Koup and are currently preparing the turbocharged Optimas for their third season of duty in the Pirelli World Challenge in 2014 following a second-place finish in the Manufacturer's Championship in 2013.

The Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the brand's most aggressive concept car ever when wraps came off the Kia GT4 Stinger at the 2014 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). Kia's eye-catching design language moves in a bold new direction with the introduction of the GT4 Stinger. The concept pushes the boundaries of performance with a rear-drive 2+2 sports car that places man and machine in harmony on the road or track. It comes as no surprise that the Kia GT4 Stinger is the wild style child of Kia's California design team, home to its 2012 predecessor, the Track'ster concept. And like the Track'ster, the GT4 Stinger's racy appeal is more than skin deep.

Emboldened by the brand's on-track success in the Pirelli World Challenge racing series with a pair of turbocharged, GTS-class Optimas, Kia's U.S. design team approached the Kia GT4 Stinger project with an eye toward weight reduction, functionality and pure driving enjoyment. The concept shuns the luxury trappings of a traditional Grand Touring car and embraces the elemental experience of truly engaging with the vehicle. "If anyone were to ask if Kia has the credibility to build a car like the GT4 Stinger," noted Kearns. "I would simply point out that Kia races - and wins - against some of the world's most legendary performance brands."

Power, Poise and Proven Performance
Beneath the low wedge of the Kia GT4 Stinger's hood resides a tuned version of Kia's proven 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injected (T-GDI) four-cylinder engine putting out an impressive 315 horsepower. "Our Optima racecars use the same engine and can produce more than 400 horsepower," said Kearns. "So why not infuse our concept with the kind of power that will make people take notice?"

That power is put to the ground via a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels, which are wrapped in 275/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zero performance tires. Staggered 235/35R-20 Pirelli P-Zeros nestle beneath the front fenders, ensuring loads of corner-carving grip. Custom 20-inch aluminum center-lock wheels feature carbon fiber inserts for strength and weight reduction. Tucked inside the massive wheels are Brembo Gran Turismo two-piece 15-inch cross-drilled rotors and four-piston calipers with plenty of stopping power.

Underpinning the GT4 Stinger's sculpted "Ignition Yellow" body is a custom chassis with independent double wishbone suspension. With a shorter wheelbase (103.1 inches) and overall length (169.7 inches) than a Forte sedan, a width (74.4 inches) greater than a Cadenza, and a swooping roofline nearly nine inches lower (49.2 inches) than a Rio subcompact, the Kia GT4 Stinger cuts a menacing figure. It tips the scales at a scant 2,874 pounds, and weight distribution is spread nearly perfectly at 52 percent up front and 48 percent at the rear. The GT4 Stinger also features a quick-ratio steering rack for direct feedback and uncompromised control.

Simplicity By Design
Fans of Kia's design language, set by Kia Motors Corporation president and chief design officer Peter Schreyer, will immediately recognize key styling elements of the Kia GT4 Stinger. "We gave the car a shrink-wrapped appearance," says Kearns. "It's as if the body panels were formed around the chassis instead of merely welded to it." In silhouette, the GT4 Stinger is simple yet powerful. The latest iteration of the signature Kia grille rests low to the ground for maximum engine cooling and cold-air induction. The grille surround glows white and features a multi-layered, satin-black border, a theme found throughout the car. Flanking the grille on both sides are vertical LED headlamps, and front-brake cooling vents intricately molded into the bumper provide a clean, smooth appearance. A carbon fiber front splitter mounted below the bumper provides added down force for the car at high speed to keep the GT4 Stinger's front tires firmly planted to the tarmac.

The long hood gently rises to meet the cowl. Two chrome accent pieces add visual interest to the otherwise ripple-less pond of Ignition Yellow sheet metal. The hood closely embraces the front wheel arches, creating two protruding muscular fenders above the front tires. The result is a pronounced edge at the vehicle's shoulders that eventually becomes the belt line.

Continuing around the car, the transparent A-pillars provide a more than 270-degree view from the driver's seat. The layered slots cut into the pillars reduce weight while improving outward visibility. Paying homage to the iconic Soul, the greenhouse design provides an aggressive side profile. "It's as if the GT4 Stinger is wearing wrap-around sunglasses," notes Kearns. Similar to the Soul, the roof of the GT4 Stinger appears to "float" from the C-pillars. Along the rocker panels are satin black accent pieces with integrated functional cooling ducts to enhance air flow to the rear brakes.

Around back, the body widens to cover the large 275-series Pirelli rubber. The glass hatch opens to reveal a built-in storage compartment and rear strut-tower brace. The LED taillights illuminate from inside the outer edge of a blacked-out panel just above the dual exhaust ports in the rear bumper.

The interior is purposeful in design and practical in nature. A pull of the billet-aluminum door handles reveals incredibly lightweight doors, but their generous width makes dropping into the molded leather race-inspired bucket seats a breeze. There is no carpet, only a rubber floor mat underneath the billet-aluminum pedals. Front and center to the driver is a thick D-shaped steering wheel and red LED-illuminated instrument panel with large tachometer and gear indicator. In keeping with the track theme and taking inspiration from sports and competition cars of the past, interior door handles have been replaced by red-stitched pull straps. In fact, the Kia GT4 Stinger makes due without the luxury of a stereo. "The audio system starts under the hood and the speakers are the exhaust pipes," said Kearns. Underway, the GT4 Stinger's free-flow exhaust burbles and blurts unabashedly and is music to the ears of driving enthusiasts everywhere.

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Jeep Wrangler Polar, 2014

 

 

 

 Jeep Wrangler Polar, 2014

In order to highlight the most adventurous soul and legendary 4x4 capabilities of the iconic Jeep Wrangler, the new limited-edition, customised Wrangler Polar model will be revealed on the Jeep stand at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show in the four-door Wrangler Unlimited configuration, and will boast an all-new Hydro Blue exterior colour matched to a Black interior.

On the heels of the success of recently launched - and sold out - limited-edition customisations of Jeep Wrangler, this new special model sports a unique trim level dedicated to all those enthusiasts searching for adventure and absolute performance in extreme driving conditions. Featuring exclusive styling cues, 18" Gloss Black alloy wheels, body-colour hardtop and original Mopar accessories, the new Jeep Wrangler Polar will be available in Europe in the first quarter of 2014, in both two- and four-door versions, powered by the brilliant 2.8-litre turbo diesel or the powerful 3.6-litre petrol engine.

Jeep Wrangler Polar takes its cue from the severe climate and extreme conditions that characterise the Antarctic region. The "Polar" badge located on the vehicle's side next to the front fender flares shows off the 78° S and 106° E coordinates that correspond to the location of Vostok in Antarctica: the exact point where the absolute severest temperature in the world was recorded at -89.2° C (-128.56° F).
 

The new Jeep Wrangler Polar was designed to express the freedom of going beyond the known limits to venture into unexplored territories: an experience that only Wrangler enthusiasts can enjoy, thanks to the reliability and safety granted by a vehicle featuring benchmark technology and unmatched off-road expertise achieved in more than seventy years of history. With its hostile routes and severe climate, the Antarctic region offers the driving conditions that the iconic Jeep Wrangler was engineered to conquer.

Based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara model, the exterior of the new Wrangler Polar boasts unique features that contribute to distinguish it aesthetically from all the other models in the Jeep lineup. First of all, the new front grille, featuring unique Gloss Black accents on the lamp throats, and the new hard spare-tyre cover are both new styling cues introduced specifically for this limited-edition model. Further exterior appointments characterizing the Wrangler Polar are the Powerdome hood and the body-colour hardtop with deep-tint sunscreen glass. A Gloss Black Jeep logo above the front grille and Gloss Black 18" alloy wheels enhance the distinctive look of the vehicle. Completing the exterior appointment of the new Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model is the unique, three-colour hood decal, featuring the outline of mountains, and the black fuel-filler door from Mopar.

The interior features Black leather seats enhanced by Pearl White accent stitching and "Polar" logo embroidered on the upper portion of the backrests. Standard equipment also includes heated front seats and a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with Pearl White stitching and high-gloss Ceramic White painted bezels. Pearl White accent stitching is found also on the armrests and floor console lid. The passenger-side dashboard grab bar and dashboard vent rings are finished in high-gloss Ceramic White to create the contrasting effect of the light on Antarctic glaciers.

The exclusive cabin of the Jeep Wrangler Polar special edition also features an all-new cluster overlay with rings painted high-gloss Ceramic White and surrounding a blue instrument background with "Polar" logo. Mopar tread-pattern slush mats complete the interior appointments of the new Wrangler Polar.

In addition to the all-new Hydro Blue colour that adds to the unique look of the vehicle displayed in Frankfurt, the Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model is also available in Billet Silver Metallic and Bright White exterior colours.

Engineered to take on the most challenging off-road trails, Jeep Wrangler Polar is equipped with the Dana 30 front axle and powerful Dana 44 rear axle. Legendary Wrangler capability is achieved through the standard Command-Trac NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. In order to handle any off-road track in utmost safety, the new Wrangler Polar model comes standard with the Trac-Lok anti-spin rear differential. This particular differential replaces the manual rear-axle locker and is a torque-sensitive mechanical unit that works to maintain traction when travelling on slippery or rough road surfaces, such as on sand, gravel, snow or ice. Trac-Lok automatically distributes the available torque to the rear wheel with the most traction, thus helping to reduce wheel spin caused by lack of traction in the other rear wheel.

The standard equipment for on-board comfort includes automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls, heated front seats, height-adjustable driver seat, Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC) and cruise control.

Optional equipment available on Jeep Wrangler Polar is the Dual Top configuration that offers the possibility to have both the Sunrider® soft top and the Freedom TopTM hardtop options in one package. A further optional feature is the Polar Pack 1 special package offering front side air bags, UConnectTM multi-media infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inch touchscreen, 40-gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port and DVD player.

The new limited-edition model will be powered by the efficient 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine matched to an automatic or manual transmission, or by the 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine paired to the automatic gearbox. The 2.8-litre CRD engine delivers 200 hp (147 kW) of power at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 1,600 - 2,600 rpm when paired to the five-speed automatic transmission. On models with a six-speed manual gearbox, the 2.8-litre engine delivers 200 hp and 410 Nm of torque at 2,600 - 3,200 rpm. The 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine of the Wrangler range, available in selected markets on this special series in addition to the 2.8-litre CRD engine, delivers 284 hp (209 kW) and 347 Nm of torque and is paired to the five-speed automatic transmission.

With a 52 cm longer wheelbase and a larger cabin that can comfortably accommodate five passengers, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the evolution of the classic Wrangler. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited combines the exceptional Jeep off-road capabilities with the comfort and versatility of an everyday car, turning the off-road champion into a four-door 4x4 convertible.

Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited are available in the Sport, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels and are all powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel Common-Rail engine featuring Stop/Start technology. The 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine is available only on the Sahara model of both Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited.

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Jaguar XKR-S GT, 2014

 

 Jaguar XKR-S GT, 2014

The XKR-S GT has been developed by Jaguar's ETO division to be the ultimate track-focused but road-going iteration of the XK coupe. Extensive aerodynamic and suspension changes, as well as the addition of carbon ceramic brakes, have combined to give the Jaguar XKR-S GT race-car inspired connected feel and braking performance. Initial production will be limited to just 30 cars for the North American market.

A range of bespoke carbon fibre components, including an extended front splitter, dive-planes and elevated rear wing, all work to maximise the XKR-S GT's aerodynamic downforce. Technical learning from the development of the new Jaguar F-TYPE two-seater sports car has also been applied to the XKR-S GT's suspension and steering systems, optimising both immediacy of response to driver input and agility.

Stunning performance is provided by Jaguar's proven 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine, boasting 550PS and 680Nm, driving through a six-speed transmission and active electronic differential. Combined with the aerodynamic and suspension changes, plus revisions to the traction control system's calibration, the result in straight-line terms is a 0-60mph time of 3.9 seconds. Electronically limited top speed is 186mph (300 km/h).

The Jaguar XKR-S GT is available in Polaris White with unique graphics and Jaguar R-S GT script on its louvred bonnet. The Warm Charcoal interior - with red accents - features 16-way electrically adjustable 'Performance' seats finished in soft-grain leather and Suedecloth with the Jaguar and R-S GT scripts integrated into the backrests. Jet Suedecloth headlining and a Jet Suedecloth steering wheel, with aluminium paddle shifters, are fitted as standard. Script to the treadplates and console highlight the exclusiveness of the XKR-S GT.

Aerodynamics and chassis
The Jaguar XKR-S GT features a carbon-fibre front splitter of race-car wrap-around type; extending forward by 60mm, it starts the optimisation of airflow around, over and underneath the car. Aggressive carbon-fibre twin dive-planes and wheelarch extensions further the efficiency of airflow around the car, while below the addition of an optimised aluminium front valance serves to smooth airflow under the car as well as enhancing engine and brake cooling performance.

A rear carbon-fibre diffuser ensures the smooth exit of air from underneath the car, while the elevated rear wing - also in carbon-fibre - works in combination with the decklid mounted spoiler to maximise rear downforce. At its electronically limited top speed of 186mph, the XKR-S GT produces 145kg (320lb) of downforce.Bonnet louvres serve as a further engine cooling aid while also helping aerodynamic performance by improving the airflow through the front end of the car.

Allied to the extensive aerodynamic revisions are detailed suspension changes.
The front and rear suspension arms, uprights, wheel bearings, bushings and rear subframe are all new and draw on hardware developed for the F-TYPE. The overall set-up works to increase lateral suspension stiffness for greater precision and responsiveness.

Integral to the revised suspension system is its new spring and damper module design. The Jaguar XKR-S GT has a motorsport-derived twin spring system mated to Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics damping system - the dampers now being ride-height adjustable. Front and rear spring rates are respectively 68% and 25% stiffer than on the XKR-S, while the damper tune is much more track-focused, providing increased levels of body control and grip.

Jaguar's Adaptive Dynamics have been specifically tuned for the XKR-S GT so that the suspension parameters change to deliver a higher level of body control with maximum traction and grip when the dynamic mode is deployed, offering optimum performance for focused track driving.

The Jaguar XKR-S GT has a front track which is 52mm wider than that of the XKR-S while the rear remains the same. The steering rack is from the F-Type, with a correspondingly faster ratio and retuned steering valve. The result is immediacy of turn-in and response to steering inputs.

The unique 20-inch forged and lightweight alloy wheels - finished in gloss black - are shod with specially developed Pirelli Corsa performance tyres (255/35 and 305/30 front/rear), giving the XKR-S GT a more muscular stance and greatly increasing its grip and stability.

Brakes
The Jaguar XKR-S GT is the first production Jaguar to be fitted with a carbon ceramic braking system.

The internally ventilated and cross-drilled lightweight brake discs measure 398mm and 380mm front/rear respectively. Combined with six-piston monoblock calipers at the front and four piston units at the rear - the yellow calipers being branded with 'Jaguar Carbon Ceramic' script - the XKR-S GT delivers race-car levels of fade-free stopping power and brake pedal feel.

Enhanced braking feel comes courtesy of the electronic Pre-Fill system. Working in conjunction with the car's DSC system, Pre-Fill pressurises the brakes every time the driver comes off the throttle pedal, resulting in a very short and consistent level of travel on the brake pedal. This maximises braking response, reduces the car's stopping distance and delivers increased levels of confidence during high performance driving.

The lightweight nature of the carbon ceramic system means a reduction in unsprung weight of 21kg - so further enhancing the XKR-S GT's handling.

Performance
Jaguar's proven all-aluminium 5.0-litre supercharged quad-cam V8 engine, boasting 550PS and 680Nm of torque, delivers not only exhilarating performance but also tremendous efficiency thanks to the technologies incorporated into it, including spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) and dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT).

The high-pressure die-cast lightweight aluminium block is stiffened with cast-iron liners and cross-bolted main bearing caps, providing refinement to match its power. The four-valve cylinder heads are constructed from recycled aluminium, between them sitting the Roots-type twin vortex supercharger fed by two intercoolers, which feature their own water-cooling circuit to reduce the temperature of the pressurised air thereby optimising power and efficiency.

The Jaguar XKR-S GT features a fully active performance exhaust system with valves that open under load, both enhancing gas-flow and the car's aural character, while optimising power output.

Jaguar XKR-S GT Technical specification

•     Engine: 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol
•     Capacity: 5000 cc
•     Bore/Stroke: 92.5mm (3.64") / 93mm (3.66")
•     Peak Power: 550 PS (405 kW) @ 6000-6500 rpm
•     Peak Torque: 680 Nm (502 lb/ft) @ 2500-5500 rpm
•     Transmission: Six-speed automatic
•     0-60mph: 3.9 s
•     Top Speed: 300 km/h (186 mph) (electronically limited)

    Combined Economy
        12.3 l/100km
        23.0 EU mpg
        17 US mpg
    CO2 Emissions: 292 g/km

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Hyundai i10, 2014

 

 

 Hyundai i10, 2014

The Hyundai Motor is set to build on its success achieved in the A-segment with the new Hyundai i10, a model designed, engineered and manufactured in Europe, for European buyers.
Evolution over original i10 is the introduction of what Hyundai Motor calls 'true value' - the addition of desirable features from segments above and emotional qualities such as dynamic styling to existing rational features such as high quality and high efficiency. Exemplified by models such as i30 and ix35, true value is now integral to the appeal of i10.

The new proportions are mirrored by a driving experience that has been developed to meet European preferences. Relocated and retuned components result in greater body and wheel control, delivering more driver involvement and ride comfort comparable to that of cars from higher segments.

The larger bodyshell of i10 yields one of the roomiest occupant cabins on the market, as well as a best-in-class 252 litres of trunk capacity. Up to 1046 litres becomes available when the rear seats are folded - also a best-in-class figure. New levels of craftsmanship can be found in the spacious interior, together with levels of comfort and safety equipment commonly only found in segments above.

Demonstrating Hyundai Motor's confidence in its European build quality, the i10 come with the company's Five Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty. The industry-best package also includes five years of roadside assistance and five years of vehicle health checks - which are offered across Europe for the first time on an A-segment Hyundai model.

The Styling and Design
The importance of design to the success of i10 was not underestimated by Hyundai Motor; design is currently the number one reason European customers choose to buy the company's vehicles in any segment, with 31% citing it as their primary purchase consideration (versus an industry average of 29%). i10 therefore offers European consumers Hyundai Motor's latest interpretation of the company's fluidic sculpture design philosophy.

The injection of European style is matched to practicality-enhancing dimensions. At 3665 millimetres (mm), i10 is 80 mm longer than its predecessor, and the longest car in the segment. Likewise, i10 goes from being the narrowest model in the A-segment to the widest at 1660 mm (+ 65 mm).
A 40 mm lowered roofline, now standing at 1500 mm, yields an athletic on-the-road stance. This is complemented by the sleek proportions of the bodyshell, in turn highlighted by the sharper belt line and side belt moulding.

Hyundai i10 has one of the most practical and spacious cabins in the sector. Innovative interior packaging gives way to segment-best trunk volume (252 litres with rear seats in place and 1046 litres with rear seats folded) and combined front and rear legroom (1890 mm).

A shallower windscreen and A-pillars offer drivers a perceivably larger field of vision, making exiting blind turns safer and manoeuvring in tight city spaces easier. Customer clinic participants cited visibility as an area where i10 particularly impressed.

The new, sleeker exterior design has a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0,31 - the lowest in the segment - which is aided by detailed improvements such as windscreen sealing that does not protrude into the airstream. The aerodynamic shape reduces wind noise as well as fuel consumption, contributing to noise levels that are lower than those of key rivals.

i10 will be offered in a range of 11 vibrant exterior colours available in solid, metallic and pearl finishes. The solid colour range comprises Baby Elephant (grey), Morning Glory (blue) and Pure White, while the metallic range is made up of Sleek Silver, Star Dust (grey), Sweet Orange and Montano Sky (blue). The design team has matched four pearl colours to the distinctive new shape of i10: Phantom Black, Red Passion, Wine Red and Silky Beige. Individual markets will tailor the colour palettes to best suit local preferences.

Inside, the i10 offers a broader choice of seat trim options than previously seen. Base models come with a combination of cloth and vinyl in beige and black. Mid-specification models have tricot cloth in blue or orange with woven side panels in black. Premium models are similarly equipped, but also offer the option of woven pattered cloth in red with black leather-like side panels.

A major contributor to the premium feel of the interior of i10 is the coloured inlay that runs the full width of the dashboard, emphasising the available space. The trim is available in four colours - red (high-level trim only), calming blue, vibrant orange or refined beige (exclusive for entry-level trim) - and is mirrored by the gear lever surround and lower sections of the front doors.

Comfort & Convinience
Hyundai i10, now one of the largest models in the A-segment, offers a greater number of comfort features and additional space for a more pleasurable environment for all occupants.

First, the enlarged wheelbase of i10 (up 5 mm to 2385 mm) allows for a longer, wider bodyshell, which gives way to one of the roomiest cabins in its class. Further cabin space has been created by moving the car's gearbox forward by 25 mm.

Front seat occupants can enjoy 40 mm more legroom, which stands at a best-in-class 1070 mm, as well as 16 mm additional shoulder room (1306 mm) and a generous 1008 mm of headroom.

Trunk capacity is boosted by 12% to a class-leading 252 litres (a 27-litre increase over its predecessor), easily accessed by a tailgate that opens to within just 724 mm of the ground. The rear seats fold 60:40, yielding a useful 1046 litres of storage space, accessed by one of the widest trunk openings (920 mm) in the A-segment. Uniquely for an A-segment car, all four doors can each hold a large-capacity bottle (1,0-litre size in the front doors; 0,6-litre in the rear doors); drinks holders positioned immediately rearward of the gear lever further boost i10's functionality.

The bodyshell of i10 is stiffer, thanks to the use of high-tensile steel, tailored blanks, reinforcing loops and additional bracing, with torsional rigidity increased by 27% over its predecessor. High-tensile steel forms 29,2% of the body structure of i10 - a huge increase over the 9% utilised in original i10. The firm underpinnings not only improve the car's impact-resistance, but yield significant improvements in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

Other NVH counter-measures include larger hydraulic mountings for the engine, a triple-layer dashboard bulkhead with sound-deadening panel, dual door sealing strips, and two measures to reduce wind noise - careful refinement of the shape of the door mirror mounts and moving the radio antenna towards the rear of the roof. The results of the measures are impressive, with noise levels as low as 38 decibels (dB) at idle and 65 dB on rough surfaces - noticeably below those of key rivals.

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Honda Jade, 2014

 

 

Honda Jade, 2014

The Honda introduced the Jade, a mass-production vehicle based on the Concept S (a global concept model for a new-value passenger mover developed primarily for the Chinese market to go on sale first in China), which was also introduced at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. Featuring an innovative design developed based on an image of Jade stone with a beautiful exterior look and noble sense of quality within, the Jade satisfy diverse customer needs from everyday use to holiday driving. The Jade was designed to match the tastes of Chinese customers born in 1980s who are energetic and known for pursuing their dreams.

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Ford Fiesta ST, 2014

 

 

 

 Ford Fiesta ST, 2014

The Ford Fiesta ST, a performance model first launched in Europe back in 2005, is yet another proof point from Ford that small cars are anything but boring. In addition to a precision sport-tuned suspension and an improved braking system, Ford Fiesta ST packs a punch under the hood.

A new high-output variant of the award-winning 1.6-liter Eco Boost four-cylinder engine propels Ford Fiesta ST with an estimated 197 horsepower and 214 lb.-ft. of torque. In comparison, Mini Cooper S makes do with 181 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft., while Chevrolet Sonic RS produces just 138 horsepower and 148 lb.-ft.

Ford Fiesta ST may be born with racing DNA, but buyers won't have to pay for that performance at the pump. Available exclusively as a five-door hatchback in North America and with a six-speed manual transmission, Ford Fiesta ST is projected to achieve up to 34 mpg.

The compact performance machine sports a unique grille and chin spoiler with new rear diffuser and fascia extensions. Bright tipped dual-exhaust pipes and high-mount spoiler along with unique 17-inch wheels complete the visual package: Ford Fiesta ST looks like it's made for the racetrack. The car is first of its nameplate to receive the Molten Orange tri-coat metallic paint.

The Ford Fiesta ST steering is more direct and responsive than the base model. A unique suspension with modified front knuckle makes for a quicker overall steering ratio of 13.6:1.
The rear axle gets increased roll stiffness to improve stability through fast corners, while the Ford Fiesta ST body sits 15 millimeters closer to the ground than the base model.

Increased mechanical grip provided by the suspension improvements is further enhanced with electronic Torque Vectoring Control to reduce understeer during hard cornering maneuvers. Three-mode electronic stability control - standard, sport or off - enables the ST driver to select the amount of electronic aid based on current conditions. Overall, Ford Fiesta ST provides enthusiastic drivers with the ideal mix of performance handling and ride comfort.

The Ford Fiesta ST sound good on the open road. It features the mechanical version of the sound symposer first used on the Focus ST, which went on sale in North America in 2012, to provide an enhanced soundtrack for drivers out tackling the open road. It is unique for Fiesta in that for the first time the engine sound is directly fed into the passenger cabin to accentuate feedback quality and response.

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Fiat Freemont Cross, 2015

 

 Fiat Freemont Cross, 2015

The Cross version of the Freemont is a cut above the rest, a model designed to meet the needs of modern families looking especially for space and practicality. At the same time it also satisfies those customers that do not want to give up an attractive and distinctive look. The successful positioning of the Freemont as "All the cars you want", which has led it to win over new customer types from other segments by combining flexibility and functionality with a modern, original style, is confirmed with the Freemont Cross.

New and exclusive interior and exterior
The new Fiat Freemont Cross offers a fresh look that makes it highly distinct within the range. This is thanks to the new front bumper with platinum chrome colour inserts, the glossy black front grille and fog light frames, platinum chrome colour side skirts and lengthwise roof bars in the same colour, as well as the black frames for the front and rear light clusters, and the rear bumper with platinum chrome colour under-body protective insert. The Freemont Cross also has brand-new 19" Hyper black five-spoke alloy wheels.

The inside of the Fiat Freemont Cross passenger compartment features unique details, like the new black leather seats with sports mesh inserts and light ardesian grey top stitching, also on the central armrest and door panels. Furthermore, a new Liquid Graphite colour finish highlights the dashboard, instrumentation, central console, door panel and steering wheel. The steering wheel and gear knob offered in leather as standard lend the finishing touch to the interior fittings.
 

The engine versions
The new version is offered with the 140 HP 2.0 MultiJet II engine, with manual gearbox and front-wheel drive, and the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet II, both in a 4×2 version with manual gearbox and an active AWD version teamed exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission that ensures excellent performance together with precise and quiet operation for ultimate comfort and satisfaction at the wheel.

The standard equipment and options
With its strong, decisive look and full equipment, the Cross trim level offers the cream of state-of-the-art infotainment devices as standard. There's an 8.4" touch screen satellite navigation system with maps together with DVD player and SD slot, Bluetooth connection, rear parking camera and an Alpine Premium sound system with 6 speakers, 368 W amplifier and subwoofer. All these features make this version truly unique and exclusive.

The new Cross trim level offers a superior level of versatility and refinement in the crossover segment. For example, the driver's seat features 10-way electric adjustment, the front passenger seat can be completely folded down, with a storage compartment hidden under the cushion, and the second and third rows of seats can be folded down, permitting the creation of a nearly 1.5 m3 load volume. What's more, the second row of seats reclines and features exclusive integrated child boosters, permitting the transport of children weighing 15 to 36 kg without using a child seat.

Active All-Wheel-Drive (AWD)
The active All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system takes care of backing up the Fiat Freemont Cross's tough appearance. This is available with the 170 HP 2.0 MultiJet II 16v engine version, teamed with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Fiat Freemont active four-wheel drive system is on-demand and it is equipped with an electronic control unit which uses sensors to detect the grip of the four wheels and decides when to transmit traction to the rear. The system intervenes on surfaces where the wheels may not have good grip (for example: mud, snow, ice) to ensure maximum traction and no limits to the routes the vehicle can take, or in the case of asphalt surfaces, to ensure additional traction and greater safety on bends.

The rear-wheel drive also activates on dry surfaces - at a speed of between 40 and 100 km/h - improving handling when driving and allowing it to take curves more easily, with more neutral dynamic behaviour.

In particular, the electronic system modulates torque transfer through the use of the ECC (Electronically Controlled Coupling) and, operating only on request, contributes to greatly limiting fuel consumption. The ECC on the AWD system is more flexible and accurate than a viscous coupling.

The control unit also interfaces with the ESC and the traction control system, systems which help to keep the crossover firmly glued to the ground, whatever the weather or the road surface. Other features include the ABS system and the electronic rollover mitigation system as standard.

The Safety
In terms of safety, the Fiat Freemont is at the top level as proven by the prestigious five-star Euro NCAP and more than 50 safety devices available. These include the front passenger advanced multistage airbags, active headrests, electronic stability control with traction control at all speeds and the Brake Assist system. What's more, side window airbags for all three rows of seats, airbags fitted in the front seats, disc brakes on all four wheels, Isofix child seat attachment system are also available as well as the Active Hood system, which uses sensors to detect the presence of pedestrians in frontal impacts, raising the rear part of the bonnet to reduce the impact force.

The electronic rollover mitigation system (ERM) and the Trailer Stability Control (TSC) are also available. The rollover mitigation system (ERM) uses data received from the ESP sensors to detect potential rollover risks and intervenes by varying the braking power supplied to individual wheels and adjusting the position of the throttle valve. The Freemont also has an intelligent system which takes care of your trailer, Trailer Sway Control (TSC). Once its sensors detect that a trailer is swaying, the system intervenes, automatically applying the correct braking action to the wheels in order to keep the trailer under control and avoid dangerous oscillations. With this system, drivers can feel safe and confident when transporting their own loads.

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