Suzuki SX4, 2014

 

 

 Suzuki SX4, 2014

Suzuki's designers and engineers began developing the new model as a successor to the current SX4. However, through the pursuit of responding to customer expectations with regard to crossovers in Europe and other parts of the world, they realised that they needed to "think bigger". While moving into the C segment with its increased size, the new model inherits the "SX4" emblem to show that Suzuki (represented by the letter "S") is a pioneer of both crossover and four-wheel drive (indicated by the "X" and "4" respectively).

Suzuki created the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover by uniting its compact car know-how with technologies honed for sport utility vehicles. As a result of focussing on giving the new SX4 Crossover distinctive crossover styling, class leading space for passengers and luggage, next generation 4WD performance and one of the lowest CO2 emissions in the segment, it achieves a remarkable combination of styling, utility, performance and fuel economy. It is a model which can offer great driving enjoyment and versatile family usage for even more people in an even wider range of situations.

Design
The new Suzuki SX4 Crossover's design embodies three key themes: emotion, quality and aerodynamics. Aerodynamics which improve fuel economy, a bold, characteristic crossover shape, dynamic lines and numerous sophisticated touches all combine to create a highly distinctive look. A sharp body line, wheel arch mouldings, skid plates and integrated roof rails emphasise the crossover styling.

The exterior design
Emotionally appealing features include modulated lines running along the sides from front bumper to rear combination lamps, plus a rounded bonnet which conveys a sense of strength and solidity.

Quality
Quality features include chrome items at the front; LED daytime running lamps in the headlamps; boldly contoured shoulders along the side lines; and two part rear combination lamps.

Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics are expressed and achieved in every area of the design, such as the roof line which slopes downwards towards the rear; smooth contours across the side of the body; a modulated line running from front to rear; low drag wheels and door mirrors.

The interior design
Emotionally appealing features include an instrument panel which is shaped to give a sense of width and dynamism.

The Quality
The contours of the instrument panel overlap the doors and the soft padding is pleasant to touch. The seats are shaped and stitched to convey a sense of sophistication, while the silver decorations create a sporty look against the black interior.

Exterior colours
A range of 10 exterior colours includes two new options which highlight the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover's urban credentials.

Crystal Lime Metallic
This new colour brings a hint of the countryside to the city and a hint of the city to the countryside. People who see the car have a lasting impression of vivid greenness.

Performance
The new SX4 Crossover's performance results from an exceptional combination of attributes: 4WD SUV capability; great handling - derived from the Swift; pleasant, straight runningstability thanks to a long wheelbase; low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption - fulfilling the global needs for environmental compatibility.

Engines and transmission systems
The new Suzuki SX4 Crossover's powertrain technologies ensure environmental compatibility while delivering all the performance needed in a C segment crossover.

1.6-litre petrol engine
The 1.6-litre petrol engine is based on the current M16A. Lower friction and lower weight in the engine and related parts heighten fuel economy without detracting from the high power and torque of the M16A.

1.6-litre diesel engine
Lightness and low friction help to give the 1.6-litre diesel engine superior fuel economy. A variable geometry turbocharger ensures plenty of torque from the low end of the rev range, so the driver can enjoy powerful, perfect torque performance at all times. A newly designed sound insulating engine cover increases passenger comfort by suppressing the vibration and noise that characterise diesel engines.

Transmission systems
Transmission systems designed for the new Suzuki SX4 Crossover help to improve performance and fuel economy and ensure the type of easy, sporty gear shifting which makes driving so enjoyable.

Manual transmission
A five-speed manual transmission is available with the 1.6-litre petrol engine. Optimised gear ratios boost performance and fuel economy. And heightened rigidity in the transmission case suppresses noise and vibration to make driving more relaxing. A six-speed manual transmission is mated to the 1.6-litre diesel engine. Optimised gear ratios increase fuel economy.

CVT transmission
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) has an auxiliary transmission which extends the range of gear ratios for an outstanding combination of acceleration, hill climbing performance and fuel economy. A straight shift gate provides ease of use. Plus, a seven speed manual mode allows the driver to shift up and down using paddles without letting go of the steering wheel.

Environmental performance
Suzuki developed the new SX4 Crossover to have remarkably low CO2 emissions for a C segmentcrossover. An Engine Auto Start Stop (EASS) system further increases fuel economy, limits exhaust emissions, and makes driving more pleasurable by limiting noise and vibration.

Safety
The new Suzuki SX4 Crossover gives both drivers and passengers peace of mind in everyday motoring by means of its superior stability and comprehensive active and passive safety facilities. It also incorporates a range of standard safety features which protect pedestrians. 

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Subaru Forester, 2014

 

 Subaru Forester, 2014

The fourth generation Subaru Forester was developed with the goal to maximize its value as a true SUV. The all-new Forester enhances basic vehicle performance such as driving, safety and environmental friendliness and features Subaru's unique Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system at its core. In addition to that, the Forester's user-friendly utilities and fun-to-drive characteristic with stress-free driving were further improved.

Since its launch in 1997, the Forester has been acclaimed world-wide for its driveability and riding comfort with rugged rough-road capability and utility with superior maneuverability.

Subaru's brand statement "Confidence in Motion" is the foundation of the brand's automobile development. Subaru is committed to engineering excellence and "Enjoyment and Peace of Mind" and to create products in harmony with customer lifestyles and values. The new Forester is also a product embodying Subaru's brand direction.

Subaru defines the value of a true SUV as : providing user-friendly versatile utilities ; fun-to-drive character and ride comfort for long distances, even under harsh conditions; and stress-free driving. To realize this, both driving performance and ride quality were highly improved by adopting Subaru's latest technologies together with the enhanced body rigidity.

Excellent fuel efficiency and safety performance realize a "Peace of Mind" driving experience. Interior comfort and functionality have been further refined to provide a vehicle that is "fun-to-use" as an SUV. While maintaining a high-level of basic vehicle performance, a new AWD control system delivers not only "fun to drive" characteristics but comfortable and confident driving in all road conditions.

Exterior Design
The all-new Forester was designed with SUV-like powerful eye-catching looks while considering better aerodynamics and functionality.

Front fascia expresses "Sportiness, Ruggedness, Peace of Mind and Confidence". The "2.0XT", direct injection turbo engine model, employs exclusive front design, accentuating its sportiness.

By extending the bottom end of the A-pillar 200 mm forward than the previous model, an elegant form has been achieved.
Designs of the front section, door panels and a rear gate express massive and powerful images. The wheel arch and wheel designs project a greater road presence and off-road capability.

The Interior Design
The interior design suggests spaciousness as well as boldness and provides a powerful look as a SUV, with a quality feel due to its sophisticated shape and soft touch materials.

The instrument panel is styled to add to the spacious atmosphere.
Soft touch materials enhance the feeling of quality in the cabin.

Packaging / Utility
The cabin design was carefully considered for greater comfort and utility for all passengers.

Both roominess and a sense of openness have been achieved by redesigning the cabin , each pillar's location and floor shape in the rear section. Seating positions were also totally reviewed to provide better visibility to all passengers, compared to the previous model.

By enlarging the cargo space and rear gate opening, better utility of the cargo space has been achieved.
A new "clean side sill" design protects passengers from dirt, when getting in and out of a car by keeping the sill clean.
Wider door openings and lower side sills vastly improve ingress and egress of passengers.
A multifunction display monitor shows details of the vehicle's driving conditions to support fuel-efficient and safe driving.

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SsangYong LIV-1 Concept, 2013

 

 SsangYong LIV-1 Concept, 2013

SsangYong has unveiled the LIV-1 Concept car at the 2013 Seoul Motor Show in South Korea. The LIV-1 (Limitless Interface Vehicle) is a large SUV (sport utility vehicle) and features an easily controlled four wheel drive system via an interface.

Designed to look robust, purposeful and sporty, the car features a sizeable body with large bumpers front and rear, yet with slim A and B pillars, a glasshouse silhouette and full length glass roof. An automated sidestep is included for safety and convenience.

Flexibility is the key design concept for the interior, where lines and curves come together to create a refined and inviting environment to achieve what is described as a lounge for the future. High gloss piano black on the centre fascia and contrasting aluminium detailing imbues the interior with the premium feel appropriate for a top-line SUV.

And as you would expect, this futuristic interior features all the latest technology to meet IT needs on the move. The car's driver-vehicle communication interface is based on the 3S-Cube, the core of SsangYong's future technology. This combines the elements of Smart Link, Safe Way and Special Sense to allow the vehicle to be remote-controlled using a smart device and to provide entertainment both within and from outside the vehicle.

Smart Link is a roof-and-glass system created from nano tube technology that removes frost quickly via remote control for safe winter driving, while Safe Way ensures safe driving by actively preventing collisions in blind spots and at intersections.

Special Sense allows the driver to arrange instrument cluster items to suit personal taste, the interface controlling the sound, seats and interior lighting to create a bespoke personal driving space.

User-vehicle interaction takes place through five displays, including a 10-inch monitor in the centre fascia and a 7-inch monitor in the headrest. The touch-panel displays featured in the LIV-1 provide clear information while continuing the futuristic theme.

SsangYong LIV-1 follows several recent concept cars from SsangYong, and along with the XIV (eXciting User-Interface Vehicle) series and SIV-1 (Smart Interface Vehicle) shown at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, clearly illustrates the design direction the brand is taking and what can be expected in the future.

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Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept, 2013

 

 

 Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept, 2013

 The brand introduced the Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept, a unique alternative in the High Luxury Sports sector, via a press conference at 2013 The Quail Motorsports Gathering in Pebble Beach, California. The Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept is the eagerly awaited convertible execution of Spyker's compact, 2-door mid-engine sports car that will offer the discerning driver of the highest standards a new choice, delivering a rare combination of heritage, design, performance and exclusivity.

Exterior highlights

• The trademark radiator grille's mesh is V-shaped, referencing Spyker models of the previous century. The 1903 Spyker logo harkens back to an era when Spyker built racers such as the amazing 60HP.
• The headlights, equipped with LED light rails, give the car an aggressive stance.
• The 3D LED rear lights are akin to the iris-type after burners of a jet engine from a modern fighter aircraft.
• The brake light has been sculpted into the rear panel design to ensure smooth, flowing design lines.
• Elegantly aggressive 19" Turbofan TM wheels are shown in mirror polish finish.
• The brand's axiom "Nulla tenaci invia est via" - which translates to "For the tenacious no road is impassable" - is shown on the fairings.

Interior

• Interior surroundings crafted from the finest materials are unusually open and airy for a sports car, akin to an aeroplane cockpit. The leather is sourced from the Litano range produced by the Royal Hulshof Dutch Tanneries in Lichtenvoorde, Netherlands. Hulshof uses only West European first choice bull hides and a special tanning process that produces the beautifully rich colour palette.
• The red cover on the ignition switch evokes the spirit of starting an aeroplane, as does the dashboard that lights up as part of the 'pre-flight check.' The dashboard is shown with a turned aluminium fascia, similar to those seen on Spykers of the 1920s.
• Pressing the engine start button brings to life a powerful V6 engine that delivers 375+ bhp.
• The trademark exposed gear change mechanism was inspired by early aircraft controls from Spyker's aviation heritage.

Body
    All carbon fibre
Chassis
    All aluminium platform
Engine
    Engine mount position: rear-mid
    Engine orientation: transverse mounted V6
    Max power: 375+ bhp
Drivetrain
    Drivetrain type: RWD
    Transmission: 6-spd automatic
Dimensions
    Overall length: 4347 mm
    Width (ex mirrors): 1882 mm
    Wheelbase: 2500 mm
    Kerb weight: under 1400 kg

The Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept will begin production in late 2014 for key markets including Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and India, followed by the US in early 2015. The introduction of the Spyker B6 Venator Concept at Geneva in early 2013 marked the beginning of a new era for the brand, one that will include a significant increase in production led by a management team that has never been stronger.

The Spyker B6 Venator Spyder Concept represents the next key step on that path, which is being spearheaded by Muller and his Chief Commercial Officer John Walton. Together, Muller and Walton are leading a passionate team that is supremely dedicated to creating unique and beautiful high-performance sports luxury cars.

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Smart Four Joy Concept, 2013

 

 

 

 Smart Four Joy Concept, 2013

More than two seats are also fully in keeping with the smart brand experience: the smart fourjoy proves this. The study has all the typical smart attributes and embodies pure carefree enjoyment of urban life. The compact four-seater is the forerunner of a new smart generation and is celebrating its world premiere at the 2013 International Motor Show in Frankfurt.

No doors, no rear window and an open roof - the smart four joy dispenses with unnecessary ballast. At the same time this gives viewers an unhindered view of the futuristic interior with its striking rear seat bench in the style of lounge furniture. This means that the vehicle has ample space for four people.

With its compact dimensions (length/width/height: 3494/1978/1494 millimetres) and a turning circle of 9.1 metres the smart fourjoy boasts the agility typical of the brand and is able to show off its strengths, especially in cities around the world. And thanks to the state-of-the-art electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor the zero-local-emission smart fourjoy offers agile driving performance without any shift delays.

What's more, the four-seater has inherited many of the genes of the original smart. "The smart fourjoy is the perfect icon of our smart design philosophy that is being carried into a new era. For the first time we are showing the future sporty four-seater character of the new smart family," says Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. "The typical smart silhouette, the clear lines and styling and also the further development of the smart face make this study a modern design icon."

Numerous design elements are a reference to the first smart model series. These include the extremely short overhangs, the wheels positioned on the four most outer points, the tail lights integrated in the sturdy tridion cell and the spherical instrument cluster.

The exterior: polished aluminium meets white pearlescent paintwork
The study shows that smart is becoming more grown-up. The deliberately three-dimensional, upright front gives it a very expressive appearance that greets the viewer with a fresh smile that is both friendly and assertive. The smart fourjoy proudly displays the large brand emblem on the front grille. The honeycomb structure of the air inlets on the front and the convex and sensuously shaped body surfaces emphasise the family relationship to the studies smart for-us (Detroit 2012) and smart forstars (Paris 2012).

The extremely pronounced tridion cell is a new feature. On the study it is made of polished full-aluminium and its brilliant bright lustre finish emphasises the premium character of the brand.

The raised smart lettering milled from aluminium on the side skirts is a further sign of the top quality. The pearlescent white on the bumpers, front bonnet and tailgate provides a contrast to the aluminium of the tridion cell. The door mirrors "float" on an aluminium stele.

A look back to the future: as with the first-generation smart fortwo the rear lights are integrated in the tridion cell. Like turbines, cubes have been incorporated into the plexiglass there. The headlamps do not have a glass cover and this reinforces the three-dimensional impression of the U-shaped daytime running lights. LEDs are exclusively fitted in the front and tail lights.

Transparent petroleum-coloured moulded parts emphasise the upbeat character of the study. They are found in the wind deflector at the top of the front windscreen, on the A-pillars on the sides and on the rear roof spoiler. The function and colour are reminiscent of 1990s tennis caps.

The interior: futuristic lounge seats for four
Without doors, a rear window or roof panel the smart fourjoy really brings the city inside. Elements that connect the exterior and the interior are the handles for driver and passenger on the side sills and the openings in the roof structure.

The most striking interior features are the two futuristic-looking front seats and the rear seat bench with a similar design. With their organic, sculptural shape they are reminiscent of modern lounge furniture.

The seat shell has a harmonious design. The rear of the seats is made of dark chrome. A piping-like line winds around the sides of the seats with the same petroleum colour as the plexiglass accents on the exterior. Perforated and smooth surfaces alternate on the vehicle floor. As the floor is dark the seats seem to float.

The seats and the instrument panel are supported by a continuous central structure. It features a convex surface with touch-sensitive operating functions.

The instrument panel gives the impression of depth, and with a honeycomb structure and fading it takes up two themes of the exterior. The solid instrument panel support is made of transparent, illuminated plexiglass into which apertures have been milled. The striking multidimensional honeycomb structure was created by moulding on white plastic with a pearlescent effect in these areas. The design of the spherical instrument cluster and the single-spoke steering wheel are reminiscent of the original smart. Two smartphones are mounted on the dashboard and on the centre tunnel at the rear for cutting-edge connectivity and tailor-made entertainment for all four passengers.

The drive: driving fun with zero local emissions
The electric drive housed at the rear is based on the current smart for two electric drive. Thanks to the 55 kW magneto-electric motor the smart for joy is agile and lively to drive.

The lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 17.6 kWh. When completely empty it takes a maximum of seven hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station on the electricity systems of most countries, i.e. overnight. The charging time at a wall box or public charging station can be shortened to less than one hour with the 22 kW on-board charger and a rapid charging cable.

For the last mile: electric skateboards and helmets
Two longboards are fastened on the roof of the smart fourjoy. With these electrically driven skateboards it is possible to cover short distances in the city without producing any local emissions.

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Skoda Octavia Combi RS, 2014

 

 

 Skoda Octavia Combi RS, 2014

The new Škoda Octavia RS is a continuation of the current model offensive of the Czech automaker Škoda. With its top speed of 248 km/h, the new RS is the fastest production Octavia of all time. Both model versions are equipped with powerful yet efficient engines, and they boast classy design as well as innovative technology. Furthermore, the new RS models offer all of the Škoda Octavia's outstanding features: outstanding functionality, ample room, top-notch safety, state-of-the-art safety and comfort assistance systems, and excellent value.

The Škoda Octavia has always represented 'a bit more car'. The new Octavia RS represents the tradition as well. "Here's a car that is not stingy with superlatives: It is the fastest and most economical, the largest, roomiest, safest, smartest and most comfortable Škoda Octavia RS that has ever been produced. The new Octavia RS marries power, technology and utility, and it is a perfect car for everyday use and recreation," says Frank Welsch, Škoda board member for technical development.

New engines with more power and lower fuel consumption
Customers can choose between a 162 kW (220 hp) two-litre petrol engine and a 135 kW (184 hp) two-litre diesel engine in the Škoda Octavia RS. Compared with the second-generation Octavia RS, the new engines have up to 10 percent more power while saving up to 19 percent in fuel. Start-stop and regenerative braking systems are standard features. Both engines are available with a manual or a DSG dual clutch transmission, each as a six-speed.

With the 2.0 TSI/162 kW (220 hp) petrol engine, the Škoda Octavia RS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 6.8 seconds, making the new-generation saloon with manual six-speed transmission 0.4 seconds faster than the previous generation. With its 248 km/h top speed, the new model outruns the second-generation Octavia RS by 6 km/h. Despite significantly improved performance, the new petrol engine with manual transmission is 17 percent or 1.3 l/100 km more economical than its predecessor. This new Octavia RS only uses a combined 6.2 l/100 km. CO2 emissions have dropped by 33 g to 142 g/km.

The 2.0 TDI/135 kW (184 hp) diesel engine also delivers maximum performance and boasts low consumption. The Škoda Octavia RS diesel engine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 232 km/h. The saloon with manual six-speed transmission averages a combined 4.6 l/100 km and emits 119 g CO2 per kilometre - a 19 percent improvement.

Standard sports suspension, progressive steering and XDS differential lock
On the new Škoda Octavia RS, sports chassis is standard equipment. Furthermore, the clearance is 15 mm lower than in the standard Octavia. The MacPherson front axle with lower triangular wishbone suspension provides precise front tracking. The rear axle uses a newly developed multi-link suspension.

The new progressive steering provides the third-generation Škoda Octavia RS with better handling and agility. Thanks to this technology, the driver can use smaller steering inputs to achieve a desired curve radius. This means less changes of steering wheel grip are necessary in tight turns. A progressive gear ratio enables this new steering mechanism.

Sporty design: well-bred and classy
The new Škoda Octavia RS conveys pure emotion at first sight. Whether as a saloon or as an estate: The Octavia RS has athletic genes but keeps bragging to a minimum.

The attractive front view is a combination of a characteristic grille, striking air inlets with a honeycomb structure, a new apron and fog lights in RS design as well as new, now standard bi-xenon headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights. The RS plaque in the grille is the seal of this sportiness.

Seen from the side, the body is lower compared with the standard Octavia. Furthermore, the new model has grown in length and width in comparison with the second-generation Octavia. The new Octavia RS is longer (saloon plus 88 mm, estate plus 86 mm) and 45 mm wider than its predecessor. At the same time, the wheel base increased by 102 mm. Both this and a shortened front overhang underscore the vehicle's powerful appearance. Standard red brake callipers, powerful proportions, a high tornado line and sharp, precise edges create passion.

The Škoda Octavia RS's new alloy wheels provide a very sporty touch. The designers created a total of four classy 17", 18", and 19" bi-colour RS wheel designs that are visually striking, optically light with sharp edges and precise craftsmanship down to the last detail. The standard Octavia RS comes with silver 17" Dorado alloy wheels and 225/45 size tyres. Customers have a choice between the Gemini and Pictoris 18" alloy wheels, both of which are suitable for 225/40 tyres. The Gemini wheels are available in two colours: silver and anthracite. Customers preferring extremely sporty rims can choose the 19" Xtrem aluminium alloy rim in black, available through Škoda Accessories.

Both on the saloon and the estate, a strong, black diffuser element and the wide reflector above it dominate the rear of the Octavia RS. Both elements are distinctive characteristics of the new Škoda Octavia RS, as are the wide, trapezoidal chrome tailpipes. LED tail lights in the typical Škoda C-shape are now standard equipment. On the saloon, the spoiler sits on the tailgate, while on the Skoda Octavia Combi RS, it is attached to the roof edge.

Plenty of room, many Simply Clever solutions
In addition to being sporty, both the saloon and the estate versions of the new Škoda Octavia RS are equipped with all of the outstanding features that distinguish the new Octavia. This includes plenty of room and numerous Simply Clever solutions - all in the quality you expect from Škoda.

The Škoda Octavia RS beats the competition when it comes to interior space: No other compact sports car offers more than this model's 1,782 mm interior length, more legroom (73 mm) and more headroom in the rear (980 mm). The boot also sets a class record: The RS saloon's boot volume grew by 5 litres to 590 litres in comparison to its predecessor. With a total of 610 litres, the Skoda Octavia Combi RS offers even more volume.

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