Seat Ibiza Cupra, 2013

 

 Seat Ibiza Cupra, 2013

The new SEAT Ibiza Cupra represents the essence of the SEAT brand like no other model. With its compact dimensions and high level of functionality, the new Ibiza Cupra delivers sporting performance for every day, accompanied by a truly impressive set of figures. From a standing start, the Cupra completes the sprint to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 228 km/h, making the SEAT Ibiza Cupra one of the most dynamic models in its class. In terms of performance, the new Cupra is even better than the previous model, as is its already exceptional efficiency: Its average fuel consumption stands at just 5.9 litres/100 km, its CO2 emissions at 139 grams per kilometre.

The new SEAT Ibiza Cupra takes an existing success story to a whole new level. The first generation was launched in 1997, since when the highly dynamic Cupra models have developed to become an icon of the SEAT brand. Cupra stands for Cup Racing, and the exclusive lettering is reserved purely for the brand's sportiest models.

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra features 132 kW (180 hp) of output, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), XDS electronic differential lock, high-performance brakes - this exceptional level of technological expertise is as much a given for the new Ibiza Cupra as the extensive equipment featuring a host of innovative details. One example is the optional SEAT Portable System, which combines the navigation and entertainment functions, and can be removed for mobile use.

The Drive
With its output of 132 kW (180 hp) at 6,200 rpm and torque of 250 Newton metres from 2,000 to 4,500 rpm, the state-of-the-art TSI engine in the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra guarantees performance that is effortless and instantly enjoyable.

The 1.4 TSI power unit is a compact piece of hi-tech. Direct injection, plus dual charged induction by a supercharger and a turbocharger give the engine its committed sporty character. For both driver and passengers, the unconditional sporting spirit of the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra is clearly audible: a special sound actuator boosts the suitably powerful engine tone.

The Transmission
The 1.4 TSI leaves the production line mated to the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG). Its extremely short shift times are perfectly suited to the Ibiza Cupra's sporty character, while the efficient set-up of the individual gear ratios is reflected in the low fuel consumption figures.

The compact dual-clutch transmission weighs in at just 70 kilograms and offers clear benefits in terms of dynamics. The superfast gear changes are completed with no perceptible interruption in drive. The substantial engine power is sent to the dual clutch via the crankshaft and a dual-mass flywheel. The pressure in the two dry clutches is controlled hydraulically. While one clutch serves the uneven gear ratios, the other is responsible for the even ratios and reverse gear.

The perfect combination of comfortable and dynamic gear change is thanks to the intelligent control electronics and the two clutches, as well as two drive and three input shafts. The DSG transmission is ready at all times to engage the next highest gear, resulting in instantaneous gear changes. A complete gear shift - e.g. from third to fourth gear - takes place in just a few hundredths of a second, meaning there is no loss of engine boost pressure, resulting in smooth, linear acceleration.
 

 The Running Gear
To deliver the dynamics of a high-performance athlete, the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra comes equipped with a finely tuned sports suspension, the XDS electronic transverse differential lock and the ESP electronic stability program.

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra's sports suspension is set up for maximum agility and precision and is based on the proven fundamental layout of MacPherson-strut front axle and torsion-beam rear suspension. The stiffer mapping of the shock absorbers and the specially adapted springs (ride height 10 mm lower) give the compact car considerably less body roll, while also lowering its centre of gravity. Both have a positive impact on cornering dynamics.

The sports suspension makes the turn-in characteristics of the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra even more agile than those of its predecessor. Yet, at the same time, detail improvements to the axle bearing set-up and the optimised breakaway force on the shock absorbers mean that the new Cupra is far more gently sprung, resulting in a considerable increase in comfort over long distances.

The XDS electronic transverse differential lock reduces the tendency to understeer and improves handling, particularly during fast cornering. The system maintains traction by applying a targeted braking impulse to the inside wheel in the event that it loses grip and starts to spin.

The ESP electronic stability program with hill-start assist, anti-slip regulation (ASR) and engine drag torque control (MSR) is part of the standard safety package in the Ibiza Cupra.

The standard-fit, high-performance brake system (dia: 288 mm front, 230 mm rear) provides the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra with ample deceleration at all times. Also available as an option are AP Racing performance brakes with SEAT Sport logos.

On-the-road, the Cupra weighs 1184 kilograms (minus driver) and runs on exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels with low-profile 215/40 R17 87V tyres fitted as standard.

The Design
The stunning design shows the sporty character of the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra at first glance. The three-door coupé has a muscular and powerful stance, while the redesigned face with its broad grille and very powerful air intakes adds emphasis to the vehicle's breadth and solidity - and provides a highly visible indication of the Ibiza Cupra's amazing performance.

The angular line of the headlamps is typical of the new SEAT design language, while fitting perfectly into the Ibiza's sculptural form. The bi-xenon lights are standard equipment and their sophisticated design offers a clear view of the attention to detail that is standard practice at SEAT. The LED daytime running lights pick up the line of the headlamps to deliver a unique light signature, just like the rear lights, which also feature LED technology. From a technical standpoint, the bi-xenon headlamps deliver excellent illumination of the road ahead. The cornering lights are integrated into the large fog lamps.

The side view of the dynamic compact car is brought to life by its sharp lines and edges. The accentuated rear shoulders and the exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels emphasise the sporty look. The black gloss exterior mirrors set a clear contrast to the paintwork of the SEAT Ibiza Cupra. The Ibiza Cupra also comes as standard with tinted side windows.

The Interior
The emotional power of the exterior design is also reflected in the interior of the SEAT Ibiza Cupra. The cockpit displays an impressive array of sporty details - while remaining clear and intuitive to operate. The outstanding feeling of quality and the precision craftsmanship underscore SEAT's attention to detail. All of the Ibiza Cupra's touch points have been given special treatment, to enrich the interaction with the car.

The new sports steering wheel with the Cupra logo on the lower of the three spokes also features pale grey stitching and black glossy inserts in the spokes. Just behind the rim are the perfectly positioned shift paddles for the DSG gearbox and just beyond the wheel are the clear, easy-to-read instruments featuring a sporty design which is unique to the top model in the Ibiza line-up. The pedals are aluminium in appearance, with high friction rubber contact points.

The SEAT Ibiza Cupra comes to market with a completely new entertainment system. As well as being recently re-designed with a clear interface for easy, intuitive operation, the powerful audio system can be complemented by the innovative SEAT Portable System. The surprisingly inexpensive solution with a touch-sensitive, 5-inch screen is perfectly integrated into the vehicle electronics system - and at the same time, easy to remove at any time for mobile use in one simple step.

The many and varied functions of the SEAT Portable System include the GPS navigation function, the hands-free phone system (Bluetooth) with voice control and wireless audio streaming (Bluetooth). The easy-to-operate in-car computer provides the driver with an extensive assortment of information. If desired the display also shows the current engine speed and coolant temperature. A dedicated Cupra screen greets the driver every time the system is started. Useful extras include an electronic "note" feature and the "Highbeam" function, which provides additional interior illumination on exiting the car at night. The screen can also show visual warnings issued to indicate when a door has been left open.

The SEAT Portable System is part of an ongoing development programme. Additional functions will be available in the Spring. These include the option of online access via a mobile phone connected to the system. This will facilitate access to up-to-the-minute traffic, traffic enforcement warnings, weather bulletins and enable local search functions.

The Equipment
The new SEAT Ibiza Cupra leaves the assembly line with an extensive range of equipment. The standard package includes bi-xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights, as well as LED lights at the rear. Air-conditioning provides comfortable temperatures, while the 17-inch alloy wheels, exclusive sports seats and steering wheel flattened along the bottom combine with the Cupra-specific exterior design to create a sporty overall look.

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Scion tC, 2014

 Scion tC, 2014

Scion revealed the new 2014 tC sports coupe at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, showing off a sporty new look, upgraded interior and an enhanced driving experience for the brand's top-selling vehicle.

Aggressive Look with New Exterior Design and 18-Inch Wheels
The 2014 Scion tC is defined by more assertive styling, starting from the front with distinctive new headlamps and an all-new hood that extends lower toward a more open, muscular grille with an embedded tC logo. The new upper- and lower-grille treatments are bordered by LED accent lighting.

Beneath the rear bumper, a new black-out valance features an FR-S style, lower-center trim piece and lower perimeter reflectors; new advanced LED tail lamps complete the picture. New 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires carry the aggressive character through to the car's profile. Standard on the Scion tC, the wheels feature a premium dark gray finish, contrasted by eye-catching machined-spoke surfaces.

The Scion tC will be available in seven exterior paint colors, including two new additions, Absolutely Red and Blue Streak Metallic.

Upgraded Materials and Scion Standard Display Audio Enhance Interior
The 2014 Scion tC's cabin adds new technology, additional convenience features and upgraded materials. The tC will be the first model in the family to come with the all-new Scion Standard Display Audio, featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen. The system will be incorporated into all 2014 Scion models, making Scion the industry's first non-luxury brand to feature a touchscreen audio system as standard equipment across its entire lineup. The new audio system comes equipped with features that Scion drivers will enjoy, including Bluetooth compatibility, HD Radio Technology and steering wheel-mounted controls.

The new base audio system will be joined by an available, all-new Scion Be Spoke Premium Audio system featuring Aha. This upgraded system includes full navigation, as well as the ability to connect compatible smart phones through Aha to access 30,000 free audio stations, including Scion's own signature station featuring a lineup of its 17 music channels. In addition to audiobook stations, sports, news and entertainment, the Aha service utilizes location-based services like Yelp and TripAdvisor, and integrates most of the popular social media applications, all at a great value for consumers.

Added convenience features for the 2014 tC include auto-off headlamps and an auto-up and down driver's window. The interior is upgraded with premium materials and lighter color fabric on the seats and the headliner.

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Renault Scenic XMOD, 2013

 

 Renault Scenic XMOD, 2013

Technology on the inside
Inside Renault Scénic XMOD, the driver enjoys a cockpit-like environment with an exclusive fixed centre console and an array of controls. The rotary control for the all-new Extended Grip traction control system and the multi-directional joystick control for the multimedia system are both easy to reach. Featuring a TFT (Thin Film Transistor) digital display, the dashboard is dominated by the fully connected Renault R-Link touchscreen multimedia system. The top-of-the-range version of XMOD includes a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminium-capped pedals and gear lever knob and new interior appointments. Rounding out the offer is new stitched upholstery and Leather/Alcantara Pack.

Extended grip underneath
Renault Scénic XMOD is the first vehicle in the Renault range to feature the all-new Extended Grip system. This advanced traction control system enables the vehicle to grip the roadconfidently under difficult driving conditions (snow, mud, sand, etc.). Manually activating the rotary control positioned on the centre console, the driver can choose from three types of assistance.

In 'Expert' mode, Extended Grip manages the braking system, while leaving the driver in full control of the engine torque. The 'Road' mode offers conventional traction control settings. It automatically reconnects at speeds of over 40kph. The 'Loose Ground' mode optimises braking control and engine torque control as a function of available grip.

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Porsche 911 GT3, 2014

 

 

 Porsche 911 GT3, 2014

Every Porsche has a race car at its heart. And never was the close relation to car racing so tangible. The new Porsche 911 GT3 stands for a redefined, even more emotional driving experience. The sports car that was developed from scratch offers even more dynamism and refined everyday practicality at the highest level.

With the GT3, Porsche is marking this 911 anniversary year by opening a new chapter in the area of high performance sports cars for circuit tracks. Both engine and transmission, as well as body and chassis are entirely new, and extend the 911 GT3 concept with an impressive performance leap. This is due to the new active rear-wheel steering, and the GT3-specific Porsche dual-clutch transmission with the characteristics of a sequential gearbox used in motor racing. Following the total production of 14,145 GT3 cars since 1999, the fifth generation of the 911 GT3, an all-round redevelopment, is set to take on the pole position among the thoroughbred Porsche sports cars with naturally aspirated engines.

The mission of the Porsche 911 GT3 is unmistakable: driving dynamics. Each and every relevant detail has been fine-tuned to that. The result is impressive: the new 911 GT3 laps the Nürburgring Northern Loop, indisputably the most challenging race track in the world, in a mere 7:25 minutes. A benchmark of great significance for the sportiest 911 with a naturally aspirated engine. Because around 80 percent of all 911 GT3 vehicles are also driven on race tracks.

Drive system and chassis of the new 911 GT3 have been systematically developed to even better performance, precision and transverse dynamics. Additionally, Porsche is using active rear-wheel steering for the first time. Depending on the speed, the system steers in the opposite or the same direction as the front wheels, thereby improving agility and stability. Among the other new driving dynamics features are the electronically controlled, fully variable rear differential lock, and the dynamic engine mounts. The height, toe and camber of the newly developed all-aluminium chassis are still adjustable. The new, 20-inch forged alloy wheels with central locking are used for optimal road contact.

New high-performance drive system with cutting-edge technology
Porsche has developed an entirely new engine for the 911 GT3. For the first time, the classical six-cylinder naturally aspirated engine has direct petrol injection in the racing car-like 911, combined with high-performance elements such as dry sump lubrication, titanium connecting rods and forged pistons.

In combination with valve control by rocker lever, an extremely high-revving engine capable of reaching up to 9,000 rpm emerged. For the driver, this means an even broader engine speed range that can bring decisive time advantages on the race track. The speedy response of the drive system is enhanced by the new power transmission without any interruption in propulsive power. As the first 911 GT3, the new model has a Porsche Doppelkupplung dual-clutch transmission (PDK) that had been originally developed for racing and has now made a comeback in a perfected form. The PDK is another feature specially developed for the 911 GT3, with characteristics directly inspired by the sequential gearboxes used in motor racing, thus granting the driver further benefits when it comes to performance, dynamics and driving fun.

Fascinating sports engine with high-revving concept
The new engine of the Porsche 911 GT3 is based on the six-cylinder used in the current 911 Carrera generation. The structural changes to the base engine had one principal goal: to develop the characteristic 911 GT3 high-revving concept further. High speeds enable high performance and gear changes, whereby the revolutions remain in the range of maximum power after shifting up. Thus the six-cylinder reaches its maximum performance of 475 hp (350 kW) at 8,250 rpm; the nominal torque of 440 Newton metres (Nm) is available at 6,250 rpm. The consistent development focus made it possible to increase the maximum speed to 9,000 rpm. This enables the 911 GT3 to reach peak performance values among street-legal vehicles. The result is a drive system that ventures even further into the racing range than ever before with a litre performance of 125 hp per litre.

Special cylinder heads with rocker arm control from motor racing
The focus of the new development were the cylinder heads, which differ fundamentally from those of the base engine, and were specifically developed for the 911 GT3. To enable peak performance values and engine speeds, the new cylinder heads are equipped with large intake and exhaust ports, large valves, and separate valve control with rocker arm. Cooling and oil supply are also particularly powerful to account for the high loads.

The valve actuation via rocker arms with hydraulic valve clearance compensation is another unique feature. The concept embodied in the Porsche 911 GT3 engine originates from racing and allows very high engine speeds on the one hand, while the other cams with performance-oriented profiles permit for large strokes and long valve opening times. The advantage of the rocker arm control is mainly in the low moving masses that allow high engine speeds, and the large contact area between the cam and rocker arm.

Advanced dry sump lubrication ensures the oil supply
The typically high and frequent lateral acceleration occurring with an ambitious driving style on the race track makes high demands on the oil supply. That's why the 911 GT3, as previously, has dry sump lubrication, i.e. the oil is siphoned permanently from the oil pan and is stored in a separate receptacle. In addition, the new 911 GT3 engine has for the first time an oil separator, a construction that also originates in racing. The oil separator consists of a cover between the crankcase and the oil pan featuring 18 single holes (three per cylinder) with crescent-shaped blades. Especially with high torques, the splash oil stirred up by the crankshaft is separated at the crescent-shaped blades ("planed") into the oil pan. Thus the amount of splash oil in the crankcase is lessened and as a consequence the so-called splashing losses of the engine are reduced. Alongside the demand-controlled oil pump, the new 911 GT3 also has two splash oil nozzles per piston that are opened in tandem depending on the temperature, load and torque. This guarantees an intensive cooling of the pistons, which are subject to high thermal loads.

More torque at the press of a button
As was the case with the predecessor, the new 911 GT3 also offers the driver the possibility of increasing the torque in the mid range at the press of a button. When activated, the backpressure in the sports exhaust system is further reduced, improving gas exchange, thus increasing the torque in the 3,000 rpm to 4,000 rpm range considerably again.

Dual-clutch transmission PDK with special 911 GT3 layout
The dual-clutch transmission (PDK) originates from Porsche racing. With the Porsche 911 GT3, it returns to the racetrack: the motor sports engineers have revised the PDK extensively both in terms of mechanics and control technology for the new high-performance sports car.

The resulting transmission provides the driver with all the essential driving dynamics of the previous manual transmission, complemented with the performance benefits of the dual-clutch transmission. During racetrack use, it can therefore be driven much like a sequential manual gearbox - with even more performance and emotional driving fun.

Two modes are available to the driver: manual shifting or the adaptive shift programme. Manual shifting is done using two paddles on the steering wheel, the right for upshifts and the left for downshifts. Shorter shifting travel and optimised actuating force result in even faster gearshifts with concise feedback, similar to the operating characteristics of the 911 GT3 Cup race cars. Alternatively, the driver can also shift using the selector lever, with a shift pattern based on that used in professional motor sports: shifting up is done by pulling the lever back, shifting down by pushing it forward.

Ready for the racetrack: "lighting shifts" with extremely short reaction and gearshift times

Gearshifting strategy and response times of the 911 GT3 PDK were consistently designed for maximum performance, and are fundamentally different from the other Porsche sports cars. This becomes apparent to the driver during manual upshifts in the form of a "lightning shift," which permits reaction times of less than 100 milliseconds. To enhance driving performance, lighting shifts are implemented with a torque overshoot, and the gear change is conducted with a highly dynamic adaptation of the engine speed to the newly selected gear. The switching times are in a range that was previously reserved for the world of motor sports.

Paddle-neutral: de-clutching function in the 911 GT3 PDK
The dynamics of a sports car driven to optimum lap times is also determined by the clutch. That's why the PDK comes with a "paddle-neutral" feature. If the driver pulls both shift paddles simultaneously, the clutches of the PDK are opened, and the flow of power between the engine and drive is cut off. Once both shift paddles are released, the clutch engages at lightning speed if the PSM is switched off. With PSM switched on, the clutch is closed quickly, but in a less pulsed manner.

This function offers two principal advantages: the driver can, for example, neutralise the driving behaviour of the vehicle when oversteering in a wet curve by pulling the paddles, thus redirecting additional cornering force to the wheels of the rear axle. The second aspect relates to individual influence of the driving dynamics due to the pulsed onset of the driving force when engaging the clutch. Comparable to a traditional coupling with a manual transmission, the rear of the vehicle can be consciously destabilised for dynamic leaning into the curve. Furthermore, the driver can use the paddle-neutral for accelerating from a standstill. As is the case with manual transmission vehicles, the driver alone decides on how to accelerate using clutch and accelerator foot, without any assistance from drive and dynamic handling control systems.

Adaptive shifting with sports strategies
or the first time, the PDK provides the driver of the new 911 GT3 with the alternative of leaving gearshifting to the adaptive transmission control. In principle, the PDK of the new 911 GT3 comes with two gearshifting strategies: Normal and PDK Sport. This means that the gear changes of the new Porsche 911 GT3 are always fast. Gear shifts and shift points are adapted to the dynamics of the driver.

The PDK Sport mode is activated by pressing the correspondingly labelled button on the centre console. In this mode, the PDK uses shift maps that are tailored to the requirements of pure circuit race track operation. Gears are held longer, and upshifts occur at higher engine speeds. The circuit race track optimisation also entails that the shifting programme is still performance oriented, even at a moderately sporty driving style. The high-performance sports car is therefore always running at the performance-oriented operating points, and increased traction is available at any time without the driver having to shift gears.

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