Friday, April 11, 2014

Renault Talisman, 2013

Renault Talisman, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptRenault Talisman, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Renault Talisman, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptRenault Talisman, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Renault Talisman, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
Renault Talisman, 2013

With the world premiere of Talisman, Renault fulfils the promise of "casual luxury" that is winning over more and more Chinese customers.

Renault Talisman is the new flagship sedan for the Chinese market, embodies the "casual luxury" that Chinese customers have come to appreciate: value for money and luxury for daily life. Its elegant design and best-in-class interior are targeted at demanding young businessmen who are looking for a car that meets both professional and personal requirements. Talisman, produced in Korea at Renault Samsung Motors, will be exported to China starting in mid-June 2012 with a base price of 318 800 RMB (38 652 euros).
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Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013

Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPorsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPorsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 2013

With the Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is doubling the driving fun to be had from the new 911 Carrera by putting a Cabriolet alongside the Coupé. The debut of the new generation of the sports car classic is being followed only a few months later by the open-top models of the 911 Carrera and 911 Carrera S in the new 911 design.

What the Coupé began with the new aluminium-steel body, the Cabriolet continues with the all-new, unique hood: As a result, the typical 911 roof line is initially retained in its entirety. Even when closed up, the Cabriolet cuts a fine figure. Intelligent lightweight design, even including the use of magnesium in the hood, ensures less weight and more sportiness, lower fuel consumption and greater comfort. With the open-top 911s as well, Porsche has managed to reverse the weight spiral and make the new Cabrio models significantly lighter than its predecessors.

Each of the two new Cabriolets has the same engine as its Carrera Coupé equivalent. The rear of the 911 Carrera Cabrio houses a 3.4-litre flat engine generating 350 hp (257 kW) of power driving the rear wheels through a seven-gear manual transmission. The open-top Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet comes with a 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine developing 400 hp (294 kW) and also a seven-gear manual transmission featured as standard. That means that the open-top 911s as well are distancing themselves even further from the competition in terms of efficiency; both models consume less than ten litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). The Cabriolets as well have the Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an optional extra, delivering even lower fuel consumption and shorter acceleration times.

With the longer wheelbase compared with the predecessor model, the wider front track and the new electro-mechanical power steering, the new Cabriolets offer even sportier driving characteristics, greater precision and agility. Depending on model, there are other standard or optional active control systems available as well that further enhance the driving dynamics.

The 911 Carrera Cabriolet will be launched in Germany on March 3, 2012. The prices for the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet start in Germany with 100,532 Euros, the Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet starts with 114,931 Euros including value-added tax in both cases.

Open-top lightweight 911 with new design language
The new Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet's design echoes its predecessor's styling while developing an entirely new design language: thanks to a longer wheelbase combined with shorter overhangs, the vehicle makes a compact, made to measure impression. A vehicle height reduced by a further four millimetres (three millimetres in the case of the 911 Carrera S) compared with the 911 Carrera Coupé strikes a distinctly sporty tone in outward appearance.

As a result of the 52 millimetre wider front track compared with the predecessor, the new 911 Carrera Cabriolet has an even more solid stance on the road. The vehicle's 61 millimetre greater width at the front creates an even more harmonious vehicle silhouette. Larger air intakes underneath the redeveloped front lights emphasise the striking appearance. Together with the new Bi-Xenon headlights, they give the new Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet a distinctive face.

The rear end echoes the sporty looks of the car's front end. It is characterised in particular by the new wider rear spoiler below the engine lid air intakes. The outer edge of the lid is part of the continuous design edge, which cleverly emphasises the vehicle's width. The compact dimensions of the redeveloped top system when stowed enabled the space above the engine to be used to best effect. The result: an elegantly flat and harmonious rear section.

Body: even stiffer and up to 60 kilograms lighter
The innovative lightweight-body of the 911 Carrera family was redesigned from the ground up for Coupé and Cabriolet alike. That means that the open-top 911 and fixed-roof model share both the weight advantages of the aluminium-steel body and the significantly improved rigidity, complemented by local reinforcement elements. It was possible to improve dynamic torsional rigidity, which has a critical influence on comfort, by 18 per cent in the new Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet models. Notwithstanding the 911 Carrera Cabriolet's increased dimensions, all the measures as a whole have yielded significant weight reductions compared with the predecessor models.

Refined ambiance with numerous customisation options
The open-top 911 Carrera models' interior equipment largely follows the interior concept of the Coupé. As before, a central design element is the centre console rising up to the front. It ensures improved ergonomics by closer integration of driver and front passenger.

The new operating concept makes controlling the vehicle's central functions uncomplicated and intuitive. The new Cabriolets also offer greater comfort in the rear. For example, the shorter installation length of the new roll-over protection system creates more legroom compared with the predecessor model.

The dashboard is classically laid out. The 911's trademark five round instruments provide all the important information about the vehicle's operating state. The new 4.8-inch, high-resolution, TFT colour screen in the instrument cluster to the right of the rev counter contains extensive configurable display options for vehicle status, audio, telephone, navigation, map display, on-board computer and tyre pressure monitoring. With the optional Sport Chrono Package, a so-called G-Force display for showing longitudinal and lateral acceleration can be accessed on the multi-function screen. Vehicles with manual transmission also feature a shift assistant display for performance-optimised driving. The driving light assistant featured as standard automatically switches from daytime running lights to dipped beam as dusk falls and, for example, when traversing tunnels.

Sports seat system with greater range of adjustment as standard
The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet's interior is rounded off by the sports seat system, featured as standard, with electrically adjustable backrest angle and height. Over and above the standard seat functionality, the optional sports seats with fully-electrical 14-way adjustment offer electrically-powered fore and aft adjustment, seat cushion angle, seat cushion height adjustment and four-way lumbar adjustment. The 18-way Adaptive Sports Seats Plus and prominent seat bolsters, also available as an option, feature additional adjustment of the seat cushion and seat back bolsters for optimal side support in any driving situation. Both versions include the Memory Package and electrical steering column adjustment. In conjunction with optional heated seats, seat ventilation is available for all sports seat versions.

Sound Package Plus featured as standard, top-of-the-range sound systems from Burmester and BOSE upon request

The new CDR-31 audio system, combined with the Sound Package Plus, featured as standard, provides acoustic information and entertainment. Porsche has teamed up with Burmester® to develop a special system for the 911 Carrera as the top-of-the-range sound system offering. The experience of the multiple prize-winning systems in the Panamera and Cayenne has been harnessed to achieve total output and sound quality unprecedented in the sports car segment. The system comprises twelve individually controllable loudspeakers, including an active so-called subwoofer built into the bodyshell with 140 millimetre speaker diameter and integrated 300 watt Class D output stage; complemented by 12 amplifier channels with a total output of more than 800 watts.

The BOSE® Surround Sound System continues to be offered as an option. It also features twelve loudspeakers, including a 100 watt active subwoofer built into the bodyshell with Class D output stage and 200 millimetre speaker diameter as well as eight amplifier channels, ensuring an impressive aural experience. This delivers an overall output of 445 watts.

Innovative lightweight roof with Coupé characteristics
The attention-getter with the 911 Carrera Cabriolet is the unique and all-new panel bow top. Thanks to the innovative technology, it has been possible for the first time to achieve the previously unachievable Coupé-like roof curvature of the closed top, which offers aerodynamic advantages into the bargain. Moreover, the weight of the entire top remains on a par with the predecessor model, notwithstanding the increased length and significantly enhanced comfort.

The top can be opened and closed in approximately 30 seconds respectively - as in the case of the predecessor up to a speed of 50 km/h. It is operated by means of a button on the centre console or, from the outside, by means of the remote control.

Porsche has traditionally set the highest standards for the 911 top. That is why the new folding roof as well - as with every previous 911 - is a completely standalone development. The first distinctive feature is apparent at a glance: the fabric roof is tensioned in an elegant arc from the front window frame to the convertible top compartment with styling that is almost identical to that of the Coupé. No roof bows are discernible under the fabric nor are there any sections that interrupt the flowing design. Even the heatable rear window is virtually flush-fitting thanks to a new technique and is integrated with the cover with only the most discreet of seams.
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PGO Cevennes, 2013

PGO Cevennes, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPGO Cevennes, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 PGO Cevennes, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPGO Cevennes, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 PGO Cevennes, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPGO Cevennes, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 PGO Cevennes, 2013

The combination of suggestive lines and appealing colors makes the Cevennes the model of seduction. The interior, at the image of its owner who would have chosen its colors and elaborated conception combining artisanal "savoir-faire" and high technology, creates a true source of emotion and pleasure. Taking the wheel of this neo-retro roadster is an invitation to discover sensations that come from the harmonious distribution between reconstructed past and assumed modernity.

The engine
After announcing the signature for a supply contract with BMW Group on February 29th, 2012, PGO Automobiles revealed the characteristics of its new engine that combines performance and high technology. This engine reaffirms, once more, PGO Automobiles' desire to offer cars of exception equipped with a state-of-the-art technology engine that meets the brand's standards, in particular for the reduction of CO2 emissions and high performance.

Descending from a line of engines with the latest advanced technology; it offers high performance in terms of power, torque, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This turbocharged engine of 1.61 L is notably equipped with variable valve lift and direct injection.

This new BMW Group engine has been awarded the title of "Best Engine of The Year" four years in a row. It permits less volume displacement, in line with the downsizing trend, to answer some of the environmental issues.

Greater performance
The frame rigidity has been enhanced by 15%; new 6-speed manual gearbox; new suspension bringing more precision, comfort and safety; more dynamic acceleration and top speed.

Greater comfort
New seats with integrated belts; specific interior layouts have been created giving it a more actual, functional and ergonomic aspect; new option: cruise control.

Greater sound
New radio Pioneer, 19/9 wide touch screen display, compatible Mp3, iPhone/iPod and Bluetooth, as well as a new audio option, 2 additional tweeters to enhance sound quality.

Greater cruising
A built-in GPS, a new and more efficient heat/air-conditioning system, better ergonomics and comfortable controls.

Greater safety
Automatic lock system at 20 km/h; new locking system for cabriolets' soft tops, creation of a central handhold, more ergonomic and comfortable.

Greater visibility
New windshield frame using a specific technology combining an aluminum structure with the windshield bringing more precision and secure visibility.

Greater eco-friendliness
Over 10 % reduction of fuel consumption, less pollution, 6 % reduction of CO2 emissions, same tax-rate in France despite the substantial increase in engine power.

Greater aesthetics
New cut for the rear bonnet creating a more modern aspect and offering an easier access to the engine for both cabriolets; new aesthetics of the lower waistline of the Cevennes, adding a more coherent aesthetic style with the one of the Hemera.

Technical Specifications
    ENGINE
  • Engine position: transverse mid engine
  • Number of cylinders: 4 aligned
  • Cubic capacity (bore x stroke): 1 598 cm3 (77 x 85,8 mm)
  • Number of valves: 16, twin overhead camshaft, BMW Valvetronic
  • Power Supply: multi-port direct injection, turbocharged
  • Maximum power: 135 Kw (184 ch DIN) @ 5400-6450 rpm
  • Maximum torque: 240 Nm (24,4 mkg) @ 1600-5000 rpm, 260 Nm in over-boost during 10 sec @ 1730-4500 rpm
  • Compression level: 10.5:1
  • Depollution system: 3-way catalytic converter

    TRANSMISSION
        Gear box: manual, 6 gears + reverse

    FRAME / STEERING
  • Front axle: McPherson system, with lower triangulated arm, transversal sway bar
  • Rear axle: McPherson system, lower multi-arms
  • Brakes: 4 ventilated discs
  • Wheels: 7x17" alloy wheels
  • Tires size: 205/40 ZR 17
  • Steering: pinion steering
  • Turning circles between curbs: 9,40m

    WEIGHT, VOLUMES AND DIMENSIONS
        Kerb weight: 1 012 Kg


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Peugeot RCZ Coupe, 2013

Peugeot RCZ Coupe, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPeugeot RCZ Coupe, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Peugeot RCZ Coupe, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptPeugeot RCZ Coupe, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Peugeot RCZ Coupe, 2013

The Peugeot is increasing the appeal and exclusivity of its popular RCZ Sports Coupé. Sensuous and sleek, sporty and elegant, its new style promotes its power and fluidity, strength and refinement, and affirms its distinctive singularity in the Peugeot range.

Its richness of expression is greatly increased by an extended range of colour and material combinations, both to exterior and interior, which will allow each customer to construct 'their own' Peugeot RCZ. This increase in emotional power will continue in 2013 with the introduction of a powerful 1.6-litre THP 260bhp version with enhanced performance.

The Peugeot RCZ fully embodies the new signature of Peugeot: MOTION & EMOTION. It is the most visible expression of the Marque's expertise:
  •     Expertise with its 'Design Style' - with a very strong design
  •     Expertise in producing 'High Quality' products with exclusive positioning
  •     Expertise with strong 'Dynamic' standards to combined ride and handling.

The Peugeot RCZ has already created a desirable following with strong sales, excellent press coverage, and achievements in competition. It has won numerous awards from the public and the specialist press, in various countries, for its design, desirability and performance.

Adapted for competition from 2010 with a 200bhp HDi FAP diesel engine, it has twice won the D1T category (1700 to 2000cc diesel) at the 24 Hours Nürburgring.

Increase in emotional power
In this very specific market segment of sports coupés, the 'enthusiasts' of attractive cars with a distinctive style identity, dynamic capability and sportiness, are also aware of innovation.

They are looking for the latest, most attractive creation around a radical coupé, so it is necessary to renew and improve, responding to the constantly moving trend of this market. Strengthened by its success, less than three years after its commercial launch, the emblematic sports coupé of the Peugeot marque is adopting a new distinctive identity to embody more than ever the range enhancement and to embrace the MOTION & EMOTION signature of Peugeot.

Exterior personalisation
The new RCZ has many personalisation components:
  • A new lacquered black grille bars option, instead of the standard satin chrome bars, to give this new Peugeot RCZ a different face;
  • Three roof arch colours: Aluminium, Sand or the new Matt Black;
  • A new 'Black Pack' groups together the new Matt Black arches and black grille bars with black brake callipers, and black exterior mirrors - components which are all also available separately;
  • Three new types of bodywork Decals: a wide gloss black central stripe crossing the vehicle, grey and red lateral stripes on the body sills bearing the word 'RCZ', a silver grey off-set stripe crossing the vehicle from front to back;
  • Two Carbon Roof options with a Matt or Satin finish;
  • Ten alloy wheel designs, including two new designs:
  • Sport model has 18" wheels and are available in three colours; Classic (standard), Dark Grey (two-tone diamond/dark grey) or Full Pirit Grey (mid grey);
  • 19" Sortilège wheels (GT models) are available in three colours; Classic, Midnight Silver (dark grey) and Matt Black Onyx;
  • 19" Solstice wheels are available in two colours, Anthra Grey (two-tone diamond/dark grey) or Matt Black Onyx (two-tone diamond/black)
  • Two new 19" alloy wheel designs, Technical, two-tone diamond, modern and sculptural, available in two colours Grey (dark grey) and Héphaïs (mid grey)
  • A Sports Pack, standard on the Sport and GT with the THP 200 petrol engine, includes a smaller diameter steering wheel, a shorter-throw gear lever and the 'Sound System' feature (available as an option on the THP 156 manual model).


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Opel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013

Opel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptOpel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Opel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptOpel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Opel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptOpel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Opel Adam Rocks Concept, 2013

Offering 61,000 exterior variations and nearly 82,000 for the interior, as well as a state-of-the-art Intelli Link infotainment system, the lifestyle Opel Adam is the true champion of individualization - and the best connected small car around. But that is not enough for Opel. At the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, Opel shows that it explores ways of further enhancing Adam's individualization and reveals an urban mini-crossover study called Adam Rocks. With its new 3-door body style, its 3.70 meters in length, muscular proportions, fierce design and open-air capability, Opel Adam Rocks also is a proposal for opening a new segment of the market.

Showcasing how Adam's unique personalization program can get another twist, the Rocks Concept has been created for those seeking personal freedom 'off the beaten track' beyond the urban landscape. Inspired by Parkour urban athletes, it is higher and wider on its wheels, tougher and more compact in appearance. The Adam Rocks' special feeling of personal freedom is further emphasized by its cabrio looks and fabric roof that offers a free view of the sky above. The fabric extends across the entire width and length of the roof, right back to the C-pillars.

Parkour fun on four wheels
The Rocks Concept embodies the characteristic strengths of current Adam models: just like them, it is an athletic small, urban lifestyle car with exciting design, unrivalled personalization and connectivity possibilities, and the best of German engineering. Its mature new crossover body style is supported by a chassis that is raised by 15 mm with a 40 mm wider stance. Agile "Parkour" athletes, who give city spaces another twist and dimension, were the inspiration for the Adam Rocks sporty urban crossover concept. Its look is emphasized by impressive 'elbow and knee pads': protective cladding around the side sills, as well as a centrally-located exhaust tailpipe in OPC style. The Opel Adam Rocks' assertive looks - with a prominent grille structure and LED headlamps - show this car means business. The boomerang shaped turn indicators, enclosing the fog lamps highlight this effect and, when off, they shimmer in opaque glass. This makes the Adam Rocks' styling even more individual - just like the additional blinkers in the front side sills.

The car rides on large 18-inch wheels in Twister design featuring visible Brembo disc brakes. These wheels, which are fitted with innovative exchangeable wheel clips, are already available in Adam's production program. But the Rocks Concept's clips get a new, bolder, even more expressive design and a selection of new colors makes them stand out in contrast to the body's various grey tones. Neon-blue stripes highlight the tire tread. This color motif is echoed in the interior and around the roof.

Clear view of the sky
The major benefit of this layout is that passengers can enjoy open-air driving fun without losing trunk space. The electric roof folds back via remote control in front of the C-pillars and does not protrude into the tailgate, leaving unrestricted access to the trunk's full capacity. The additional weight caused by this system is minimal compared to a traditional, pure cabrio concept - a major criteria for a car of that size. The 'networked' roof's special appeal is its intelligence: a special weather app, displayed on the color driver-information-center of the IntelliLink infotainment system, knows when a weather front is imminent and automatically initiates closing of the roof. Clever if, on a hot summer day, you leave your car open in front of your house and a storm arrives.
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Nissan 370Z, 2013

Nissan 370Z, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptNissan 370Z, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Nissan 370Z, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptNissan 370Z, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Nissan 370Z, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptNissan 370Z, 2013, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Nissan 370Z, 2013

If it's February in Chicago, it's time for one thing - sports cars. Bringing a taste of hot performance to the Windy City winter, Nissan debuted the revised 2013 Nissan 370Z on the floor of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The new Z, which is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide next June, features a number of enhancements designed to keep the legendary sports car fresh and exciting. For 2013, the Nissan 370Z  once again be available in Coupe, Roadster and NISMO Z .

The updates for the new model year:
  •     Refreshed front fascia with vertical LED daytime running lights
  •     Red reflector added to rear fascia (replaces previous black center cover)
  •     Revised 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Package equipped models)
  •     New 18-inch wheels for 370Z Coupe
  •     Red-finished brake calipers (Sport Package equipped models)
  •     Dark-finish fuel gauge trim
  •     Euro-tuned shock absorbers (Sport Package equipped models)
  •     And two new exterior colors - Magma Red and Midnight Blue

The NISMO 370Z also adds a new Bose Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers, premium gun metallic dark-finish 19-inch wheels, and Nissan GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid. The NISMO 370Z does not adopt the new front fascia/rear reflector, Euro-tuned shocks or Midnight Blue exterior color.

As in 2012, the 2013 370Z Coupe and 370Z Coupe Touring with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine and choice of 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic transmission. The 2013 370Z Roadster and 370Z Roadster Touring will be offered with the same engine but with the 6-speed manual offered only with the Touring model (the 7-speed automatic transmission is available with both).


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Mini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014

Mini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptMini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Mini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Mini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptMini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptMini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptMini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
Mini Paceman John Cooper Works, 2014

Its driving characteristics and design set the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works apart from the crowd in the premium compact segment. The seventh member of the John Cooper Works line-up takes to the stage as the stand-out sporting tool in a brand new category of car. The unmistakable style of the first Sports Activity Coupé in its class and numerous signature John Cooper Works features - among them the standard-fitted aerodynamic kit, lowered sports suspension and 18-inch light-alloy wheels - lend the 4,124- millimetre-long, 1,786-millimetre-wide and 1,527-millimetre-tall three-door car an imposing presence before it has so much as turned a wheel. Key to providing the inspirational performance to back up its looks is the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works's race-bred powertrain and chassis technology. And the standard ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, which optimises not only traction and driving stability on rough terrain but also agility through dynamically taken corners, plays its part in the car's extreme driving fun as well.

The result is a race-car feeling, served up in style to the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works's driver and three passengers. The individual seats of the rear compartment lend it a lounge-like ambience to go with the cockpit's typically John Cooper Works sports car surroundings. Sports seats for the driver and front passenger and a bespoke spread of colours and materials are central to the distinctive character of the interior, as is the extensive selection of standard equipment.

Muscular proportions, dynamic lines and an aerodynamic kit mould the unmistakable figure of an elite sportsman

The new model sees the compact Sports Activity Coupé concept re-emerge in an extra layer of muscular proportions and dynamically stretched lines. Long doors, the coupé-style roof swooping downwards from the windscreen and side windows tapering towards the rear shape the side view of the car. The upright front end exudes power and presence, while the broad-set rear - with its large tailgate - offers a hint of the car's surefooted roadholding. The performance-maxing character of the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works is further emphasised by an aerodynamic kit. The particularly muscular front and rear aprons and bespoke side skirts ensure the airflow around the car is even more efficient. The aerodynamic kit is part of standard specification for the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works, as is the sports exhaust system with polished stainless steel tailpipe embellishers and the 18-inch light-alloy wheels in Twin Spoke Black Burnished design with polished spoke fronts and black rim wells. Among the items on the options list are exclusive 19-inch light-alloy wheels in Cross-Spoke Crusher design. John Cooper Works logos on the radiator grille, tailgate, door sill strips and side indicator surrounds provide additional confirmation of the car's identity.

Irresistible combination: sports car ambience in the cockpit, lounge setting in the rear
Inside the car, the distinctive interior design combines with the customary sports car ambience of John Cooper Works models to particularly alluring effect. The two individual rear seats offer impressive shoulder and headroom, outstanding lateral support and unusually high levels of comfort. The armrests in the rear side panels further enhance the lounge-style character of the rear compartment. These are integrated into a circular rear trim element, which matches the colour and material of the seats. The individual seat layout is highlighted by two mouldings in the load compartment cover which extend out from immediately behind the head restraints into the rear. The rear seat backrests can be folded down separately, allowing the boot capacity of the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works to grow from 330 to as much as 1,080 litres.

A sports steering wheel with red contrast stitching and John Cooper Works logo, dark-coloured dials for the 260 km/h (162 mph) speedometer and the rev counter, an anthracite-coloured roof liner, a gearshift lever with red shift pattern lettering, red contrast stitching for the gearshift lever gaiter, and floor mats with red stitching are all part of the standard equipment count for the extreme sports model, as are cloth sports seats in Diagonal Track John Cooper Works Carbon Black trim with red contrast stitching. Lounge Leather sports seats in Carbon Black Championship Red are available as an option. Standard Piano Black interior trim strips add the finishing touches to the racing-inspired aura inside the MINI Paceman John Cooper Works. Exclusive Chili Red trim - consisting of red elements for the cockpit and doors and a red stripe for the otherwise black trim strips on the centre console - can be ordered as an option.

The MINI Paceman John Cooper Works built alongside all the other variants of the brand's first Sports Activity Coupé and the MINI Countryman at the BMW Group's partner firm Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz, Austria. Production will take place on a separate assembly line set up and operated according to the exacting standards of the BMW Group. As with all the brand's models, the high-performance powerp lant for this sharpest of all MINI Paceman models sourced from the Hams Hall engine plant, one corner of the MINI production triangle in England.


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Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014

Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptMercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car ConceptMercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014, Autos, Luxury Automobiles, Automotive, Car Concept
 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, 2014

Mercedes-Benz AMG kicks off the automotive spring of 2013 in the "Big Apple" in dynamic style as the CLA45 AMG celebrates its world premiere at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. The philosophy behind this four-door mid-series coupé matches that of the successful CLS 63 AMG, the trendsetter among four-door high-performance coupés. A glance at this high-tech package suffices to show that the CLA45 AMG also has all the typical DNA to make it a perfect representative of the AMG's Driving Performance brand claim: with a peak output of 265 kW (360 hp) and maximum torque of 450 Newton metres, its turbocharged engine is not only the most powerful four-cylinder unit in series production anywhere in the world but also a highly efficient one that meets the EU6 emissions standard. With fuel consumption of 6.9 litres per 100 km according to NEDC combined figures, the CLA45 AMG meets even the most exacting requirements. The performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive of the CLA45 AMG similarly sets a new benchmark in its competitive segment.

The new four-door high-performance coupé offers an exceptional combination of an excitingly sporty driving experience, extravagant design and exclusive individuality. With the CLA45 AMG Mercedes-AMG is establishing a completely new segment - as it did previously with the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake (2012) and the CLS 55 AMG (2004). At the time of their launch, neither of these AMG models had any direct rivals, but went on to inspire other automotive manufacturers. Turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission - the CLA45 AMG features the same drive system that is already powering the A45 AMG to deliver highly dynamic and efficient performance.

Typically AMG: the most powerful series-production four-cylinder turbo engine in the world
A glance at the technical data for the CLA45 AMG shows: the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine, with a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp) and up to 450 Newton metres of torque, is the most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine in series production anywhere in the world.

The combination of high performance and torque, together with the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, gives the CLA45 AMG driving characteristics almost on a par with those of a sports car. The performance coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and its top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). But the AMG 2.0-litre turbo engine is impressive not only in terms of its dynamic performance but also with regard to its efficiency and environmental compatibility. The CLA45 AMG achieves a fuel consumption level of 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres according to NEDC combined figures, while it already meets the EU6 emissions standard that only comes into effect in 2015 as well as the limit for the particle count per kilometre of 6 × 1011 part./km that will become mandatory in 2017.

The basis for these impressive figures is provided by the high-tech package which has been put together by Mercedes-AMG. As a high-performance engine belonging to the Blue DIRECT family, the four-cylinder turbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection via piezo injectors positioned centrally in the four combustion chambers. The combination of multiple fuel injection and multiple spark ignition improves fuel utilisation and increases thermodynamic efficiency substantially, leading to lower exhaust emissions. Other highlights include the gravity-die sandcast all-aluminium crankcase, weight-optimised crank assembly with forged steel crankshaft and forged pistons with friction-optimised piston rings, NANOSLIDE cylinder wall technology, air-water charge air cooling, generator management and ECO start/stop function.

Twin-scroll turbochargers and AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap
Mercedes-AMG addresses the essential challenges concerning the response of small-displacement turbo engines by means of a twin-scroll turbocharger, maximum derestriction of the exhaust system and an innovative injection strategy. The twin-scroll technology provides for a more spontaneous build-up of charge pressure, making effective use of exhaust gas back pressure, exhaust gas temperature and exhaust gas impulse. This results in a swifter build-up of torque right from the lower rev range. As a positive side-effect, the twin-scroll technology also benefits fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. With a maximum charge pressure of 1.8 bar, the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine leads the field in this respect, too.

The AMG sports exhaust system features large pipe cross-sections and an automatically controlled exhaust flap. This technology, which is familiar from the SLK 55 AMG, reconciles the two apparently conflicting aims of tangible dynamism and hallmark Mercedes comfort on long journeys. The flap is continuously adjusted by map control according to the power called up by the driver, load status and engine speed. The AMG sports exhaust system emits a fascinating, full engine sound that is particularly impressive during powerful acceleration.

An AMG Performance exhaust system with exhaust flap is available as an option for the A 45 AMG. This provides for an even more emotional and striking engine sound when the throttle is open and during gear shifting. The double-declutching function during downshifting and the interruption of ignition and injection during upshifting under full load produce a particularly throaty sound with the AMG Performance exhaust system and create a level of emotionality which is otherwise the preserve of engines with more than four cylinders.

High-performance cooling system with components from the SLS AMG
The high driving dynamics of the CLA45 AMG call for a highly effective cooling system. On the basis of the components from the SLS AMG, a low-temperature circuit is additionally deployed for air-water charge air cooling of the four-cylinder turbo engine. The cooler extending across the complete front level of the cooling module is supplemented by an additional cooler in the wheel arch. Together with the charge air cooler, which is connected in series, a high-performance electric pump ensures the required flow through the water coolers located behind the large intake ports. This provides for ideal cooling of the highly compressed charge air, thereby contributing towards optimum engine performance.

The cooling of the transmission oil is integrated into the water cooling circuit for the engine. The water cooler positioned behind the front apron is supported by the heat exchanger which is fitted directly on the transmission and supplied with cooling water as required by means of an auxiliary pump.


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