Bugatti Veyron Rembrandt Bugatti, 2014

 

 

 Bugatti Veyron Rembrandt Bugatti, 2014

Bugatti is continuing its six-part edition series, "Les Légendes de Bugatti", at the 2014 Geneva International Motor Show to honour some of the more important people in the company's history. In 2013 the long-established French brand successfully presented the first three Legends models. All nine vehicles of these model series have been sold. Now Bugatti is celebrating another high point with its fourth legend - named in honour of Rembrandt Bugatti, brother of company founder Ettore and one of the most important sculptors of the early 20th century. One of his most significant works is the sculpture of a dancing elephant. It decorates the radiator of the Bugatti Type 41 Royale and became the brand's symbol. The Legends model is based on the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse1. As with the other Legends models, only three will be manufactured. The "Rembrandt Bugatti" Vitesse costs €2.18 million Euro net. "Rembrandt Bugatti was an exceptional sculptor. He represents the strong artistic roots of the Bugatti family, as did his father, Carlo," said Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S., at the presentation of the Legends edition. "As vehicle developer and founder of the Bugatti brand, Ettore was also inspired by this artistic heritage. Art is of course one of our three brand values, namely 'Art, Forme, Technique'. This makes Bugatti unique in automotive history, and was the reason we dedicated this striking Legends model to Rembrandt Bugatti."

The art world views Rembrandt Bugatti as one of the most notable and artistically independent sculptors of the early 20th century. He became famous through his animal sculptures, and cast a large part of his work in bronze. The pieces are now on display in several collections and museums across the world. In the same way that Ettore saw automobile creation as an artistic process, Rembrandt Bugatti's fame was based on his extraordinary artistic talent and his formidable manual abilities in manipulating surfaces.

The Exterior
The body of the "Rembrandt Bugatti" Legend Vitesse was designed in the "horizontal split", and is largely composed of bronze-coloured clear-coated carbon as a gesture to the artist's favoured material. The vehicle's lower half is painted in an elegant light brown, "Noix". The famous Bugatti horseshoe gleams in platinum from the front grille, with platinum also ringing the EB logo at the vehicle's rear. The wheels are painted in dark "Firefinch" and light "Noix" browns, and these colours combine to complete the elegant appearance and set the super sports car off against the asphalt. In reference to the artist and Legends car's namesake, Rembrandt Bugatti's signature has been lasered onto the petrol and oil cap.

The Interior
The elegant and harmonious appearance continues in the vehicle's interior. The Vitesse is completely upholstered with leather in light brown "Cognac". The rear centre box between the seats has a striking design. It proudly sports Rembrandt Bugatti's famous elephant sculpture, the hood ornament of the Type 41 Royale and today is the symbol for both the brand and the Legends edition. The elephant was cast in bronze with great technical skill and worked as an insert into the cover. The cover is made of bronze-coloured clear-coated carbon. The door trim is impressive evidence of Bugatti's reputation for working high-quality materials in a unique style, with braided leather in the softly contrasting colours of "Cognac" and "Coffee". This elegant design was developed exclusively for this Legends car.

Platinum is also in evidence in the vehicle's interior, on the EB logo on the steering wheel. Other interior details specific to this Legends Vitesse are the insert of bronze-coloured clear-coated carbon on the extended centre console with the lettering "Les Légendes de Bugatti" and Rembrandt Bugatti's elephant, and the door sill plates displaying the sculptor's portrait

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Brabus B63S-700 6x6, 2013

 

 

 

 Brabus B63S-700 6x6, 2013

Two wheels more than normal, plus power in abundance as is the norm for Brabus: in the Brabus B63S-700 6x6 a particularly exclusive power off-roader based on the Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 celebrates its world premiere at the 2013 IAA in Frankfurt/Main.

Brabus lends the most exclusive G-Class of all times even more punch: powered by a 5.5-liter V8 Biturbo with Brabus B63S-700 engine tuning producing 515 kW / 700 hp (690 bhp), the six-wheel drive powerhouse weighing in at around four tons sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.4 seconds. The top speed is limited electronically to 160 km/h (100 mph) due to the 37-inch off-road tires.

As a contrast to the striking black, chrome and carbon-fiber Brabus exterior, the Brabus interior designers picked a fiery red Mastik leather/Alcantara interior.

The Mercedes G63 AMG 6x6 built in small-series production comes normally with a 5.5-liter eight-cylinder four-valve Biturbo engine producing 400 kW / 544 hp (536 bhp). Brabus can draw upon the world's most extensive engine tuning program for Mercedes-Benz automobiles in the case of this special model as well.

The Brabus B63S-700 performance kit, which is also available for all other current Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG SUVs, unleashes the inherent power slumbering in the turbocharged V8 engine. To realize the enormous power increase by 115 kW / 156 hp (154 bhp) the peripherals of the V8 are modified extensively.

The production turbochargers are replaced by two special Brabus turbochargers with larger compressor unit, which produce a higher boost pressure. Brabus Gold Heat Reflection sheathing for the intake and charge-air pipes further lower the charge-air temperature. This measure contributes equally to the power yield and to the flawless durability, which also manifests itself in the Brabus Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see Brabus Warranty Terms and Conditions, updated July 2013) that is unparalleled in the industry.

In addition, special high-performance metal catalysts with 75-mm (2.9 in.) downpipes are installed to lower the back pressure. The stainless-steel sport exhaust system with controlled butterfly valve was custom-developed for the G63 6x6 AMG and offers both optimized power yield and active control of the exhaust note. Drivers can select at the push of a button between the subtle "Coming Home" mode and a markedly potent exhaust note in the "Sport" position. The Brabus exhaust system also puts its visual stamp on both sides of the vehicles with two striking dual sidepipes.

Specially calibrated Brabus mapping for the engine management system coordinates the perfect interaction of all high-performance components while also ensuring compliance with the stringent Euro V emission standards.

With these major modifications the B63S-700 engine, which is also available for the G63 AMG 4x4 model, produces 515 kW / 700 hp (690 bhp) at a low 5,300 rpm. The Brabus engine also delivers a much heftier torque: between 2,000 rpm and 4,500 rpm the engine sends a massive 960 Nm (708 lb-ft) of torque instead of the standard 760 Nm (561 lb-ft) to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This is complemented by special Brabus aluminum shift paddles that facilitate manual gearshifts from the multifunction steering wheel of the G-Class. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner Motul.

Thus equipped the six-wheeled heavyweight turns in an acceleration performance that can measure up to full-blooded sports cars. 7.4 seconds for 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) are absolute tops for a vehicle weighing in at just less than four tons. The heavy-duty off-road tires the 6x6 is equipped with necessitate limiting the top speed to 160 km/h (100 mph).

Brabus also gives the 6x6 a strategic visual upgrade. The imposing nature of the front is further strengthened by purposeful modifications. The Brabus front spoiler edges attach to the production fascia and are combined with an additional molding below the special radiator grille with integrated Brabus logo. The Brabus carbon-fiber hood scoop adds another striking highlight. The mirror-polished Brabus underride guard provides an interesting contrast to the all-black paintwork.

The innovative Brabus lighting concept sets further visual signals. It includes dark-tinted LED lights integrated into the front spoiler edges. Even more dominant are the black Brabus xenon headlights and daytime running lights with integrated turn-signal function for all current models of the venerable off-roader. The now obsolete production turn signals on top of the fenders are replaced with clear-coated matt carbon-fiber covers. In conjunction with the matt carbon-fiber structure on the hood and the carbon-fiber shells for the exterior mirrors they round out the belligerent 6x6 look to full effect.

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BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo, 2014

 

 

 BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo, 2014

The new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo represents a high-calibre addition to the premium reaches of the mid-size segment. This new concept performs a genuinely unique role within the successful BMW 3-Series range and provides a fresh and distinctive take on aesthetic appeal, space and functionality. The BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo fuses the dynamic sporting attributes of the 3-Series Sedan with the practicality and versatility of the 3-Series Touring, and backs these qualities up with a palpable increase in space and long-distance comfort. The new addition to the range exudes aesthetic and emotional appeal, boasts a distinctive presence on the road and offers similarly pronounced driving pleasure.

Among the eye-catching features of the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo are a powerfully formed front end, an elegantly stretched silhouette with coupe-style roofline, frameless side windows and a flowing rear end with large load aperture. Here, an extended rear spoiler - the first of its type on a BMW - provides visual lightness as well as reducing lift at touring speeds. The clear increase in length over the Sedan and Touring benefits not only the car's elegant silhouette, but also the amount of space available on board.

Ease of access, a raised seating position offering an outstanding view out to all sides and luxurious expanses of space around every passenger provide an instant feel-good factor. The Gran Turismo offers more room in the rear compartment in particular. Indeed, passengers in the three full-size rear seats will encounter legroom normally only found in luxury-class cars.

The broad range of qualities - both functional and aesthetic - allows the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo to tick all the right boxes for active and demanding drivers who use their car in a variety of ways but would also value the aesthetic appeal of a coupe. All of which allows the new Gran Turismo to make a compelling case for itself as both an elegant business carriage and a dynamic, comfortable tourer for family trips away and leisure activities.

Design: Innovative, emotional and practical.
The first impression delivered by the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo invariably centres on the striking combination of dynamic and aesthetic appeal. Attractive proportions, four doors with frameless windows, the coupe-style, gently falling roofline and large tailgate define the distinctive character it has chiselled for itself within the BMW 3-Series ranks. Powerful lines and taut surfaces sketch out an athletic body which lends the car an actively forward-surging purpose, as well as suggesting a high degree of functionality. Indeed, the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo sets new standards inside as well as out. A convincing sense of roominess, a high seating position, generous levels of space and intelligent load area management seal its status as a one-off in the premium mid-size segment.

At 4,824 millimetres long, 1,489 millimetres tall, 1,828 millimetres wide and with a 2,920-millimetre wheelbase, the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo is notably larger all round than the Sedan and Touring variants of the 3-Series range. However, the designers' clever use of proportions, surfaces and lines ensures that the Gran Turismo appears to cut a similarly low-slung and dynamic figure as its siblings. Its dimensions allow it to lay on impressive levels of space for passengers and their luggage, as a result of which it passes the "long-distance comfort" test with flying colours. At 520 litres, its boot capacity is up 25 litres on the BMW 3-Series Touring's, while an extra 70 millimetres of rear legroom place it between the BMW 5-Series and BMW 7-Series, i.e. firmly in luxury class territory.

Front view: powerful dynamics.
The eye-catching front end of the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo makes no secret of its BMW 3-Series family ties, but also brings its own individual flavour into the mix. The broad, powerful BMW kidney grille and modified front apron underline the car's sporting character, while striking twin headlights with corona rings (if xenon headlights are specified) and LED accent lights form a visual unit with the slightly forward-slanting kidneys and reinforce the sense of both width and presence. The silhouette of the headlights is larger than on the Sedan. Large air intakes below the headlights emphasise the sporting character of the car, as do the aerodynamically motivated apertures for the Air Curtains. The bonnet, meanwhile, has smoother contours than the Sedan and Touring. The most prominent design cue remains the kidney grille, which draws the visual focus of the front end further towards the road and gives the car a lower-slung and sportier feel. Another identifying feature of the BMW 3-Series Gran Turismoare the "blades" set into the outer air intakes of the front apron.

Side view: elegance with a coupe-style roofline.
The link between the front and rear of the BMW 3-Series GT is particularly seamless. Hallmark BMW proportions and a coupe-style roofline sloping down towards the rear stretch the car's silhouette, while powerfully taut surfaces and rising lines lend the flanks their inherent dynamic verve. The smooth transition of the roofline into the rear creates extra interior space while showcasing the car's enviable functionality. The BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo is the brand's first-ever model to sport an active rear spoiler. At lower speeds it retracts virtually out of sight, leaving barely a ripple in the coupe-style roofline. One feature that is most definitely visible from the side are the forward-surging kidney slats, which dart up into the bonnet, underlining the agile character of the Gran Turismo.

The dominant theme of the car's flanks is the double swage line, made up of two character lines running alongside each other, which is central to the appearance of the latest BMW 3-Series. Viewed in tandem with the pronounced door sill line it strengthens the body's dynamic wedge shape. The high-set side window graphic, which rises slightly at the Hofmeister kink, lends pleasingly aesthetic emphasis to the clear forward orientation of the exterior design. A new element of the BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo comes in the form of the Air Breathers. Located just rearwards of the front wheels, they are designed to reduce drag around the wheel arches. The Air Breathers team up with the Air Curtains to underline the sporting character of the car's design and provide tangible evidence of the innovative aerodynamic solutions devised by BMW as part of its BMW EfficientDynamics development strategy.

Rear view: a powerful tail end with compelling functionality.
The rear of the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo is highlighted by horizontal surfaces and lines emphasising muscular width and unshakable roadholding. The wraparound section below the spoiler has an extremely flat appearance and visually lowers the stance of the rear. The interplay between light and shadowed surfaces generates a dynamism even when the car is stationary.

The extended rear lights, in customary BMW L-shaped design, stretch far into the sides of the car, add further presence to the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo's powerful breadth and make the car appear lower to the road. Two integrated bars of LEDs allow a slim light design and ensure the BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo's distinctive appearance is maintained both day and night. The large tailgate, meanwhile, showcases the versatility and functionality of the new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo. It allows optimum access to the load area and, thanks to its wide, generously sized aperture, makes it easier to load and unload even bulky items.

Interior: surprising spaciousness, generous freedom of movement.
The new BMW 3-Series Gran Turismo adds 200 millimetres to the length of the BMW 3-Series Touring and has a 110-millimetre longer wheelbase. The new model variant also stands 81 millimetres taller. These generous dimensions create a luxurious feeling of space for the passengers and ensure unbeatable freedom of movement in every seat. The front and rear passengers all benefit from a seating position raised by 59 millimetres, which allows an outstanding view out and makes entry and exit significantly easier. The Gran Turismo also raises headroom another notch.

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Bentley Continental GT W12 Le Mans Edition, 2014

 

 Bentley Continental GT W12 Le Mans Edition, 2014

Bentley Motors, Inc. announced six new Le Mans Limited Edition specifications available on the flagship Mulsanne and the Continental family, exclusively available in North America. Each model is inspired by a driver from Bentley's six victories at the legendary Le Mans 24 Hours race.

From the company's start in 1919, Bentley was remarkably successful in both racing and setting new speed records. Founder W.O. Bentley was a determined supporter of motor racing as a means of establishing the Bentley marque and the company's racing success was achieved through its engineering competence and the skills of a group of drivers known as the 'Bentley Boys'.

After being the sole British entry and placing fourth in the inaugural 1923 race, Bentley won the Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race in 1924. From 1927 to 1930 Bentley dominated the event and took victory on four consecutive occasions. In 2003, nearly 83 years to the date from its previous victory, Bentley achieved yet another victory, placing first and second, with Guy Smith piloting the first of the two Speed 8's across the finish line.

To celebrate these significant milestones, 48 examples of each 'Le Mans Limited Edition' model are being produced. Each car will have a unique Le Mans Edition numbered badge, Le Mans Edition clock face, embroidered Le Mans badge to each headrest, tread plates with the limited edition name, unique Le Mans Edition wheels and specific interior veneers and exterior colours.

Continental GT models will be available in the second quarter of 2013 with Mulsanne Le Mans Edition models available beginning in the third quarter.

Bentley Continental GT Family
The 4-seat Continental GT coupe and convertible capture the GT spirit with the highest standards of design, engineering, luxury, performance, and everyday practicality. The 4.0-litre, twin turbo V8 achieves exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector. The instantly recognizable growl of the V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stable mates.

Also available in Le Mans Edition Coupe and Convertible form is Bentley's renowned 6.0-litre W12 engine. Producing 567 bhp and 516 lb-ft of torque, the Continental GT W12 is quintessential Bentley refinement and performance.

The Continental GT Speed Le Mans Edition is available in coupe form only. The iconic GT Speed is powered by Bentley's renowned 6.0-litre W12 and in this version produces 616 bhp and 590 lb-ft of torque available from 2000 rpm for instantly accessible high performance. The GT Speed sprints to sixty in 4.0 seconds and is the fastest production Bentley ever with a top speed of 205 mph.

Bentley Mulsanne
In an era of mass production, the Mulsanne stands at the pinnacle of British luxury motoring. With a 0-60 time of just 5.1 seconds and a top speed of 184 mph, the 505 bhp model offers thunderous levels of performance for an ultra-luxury sedan.

The Le Mans Edition specifications are a perfect blend of sportsmanship and heritage matched to the highest standards of technology and craftsmanship. The limited edition specifications will feature, among other items, diamond-quilted hide seat covering, diamond-quilted hide door panels, Le Mans Edition illuminated treadplates, drilled alloy foot pedals, sports tuned suspension and steering, 'Quad' Effect Tailpipe Finishers, and two-piece five spoke dark tint alloy wheels.

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Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Concept, 2014

 

 

 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Concept, 2014

The preview of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, the convertible evolution of the award-winning coupé launched in 2014, debuted at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. Characterised by special details and distinctive finishes, the preview is an exercise in style aimed at selecting the contents to be implemented in standard production scheduled for the beginning of next year.

Spiders have always occupied a prime place in Alfa Romeo's heritage because they are the freest and most emotion-driven expression of motoring. The same spirit is expressed in the preview of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, the natural evolution of Alfa Romeo's long spider history focused on cars capable of delivering great excitement, outstanding driving satisfaction, striking design and powerful, flexible engines.

The preview inherits all the distinctive winning characteristics of the Alfa Romeo 4C coupé, the brand's modern icon which represents the essential sportiness embedded in the 'Alfa Romeo DNA': performance, Italian style and technical excellence aimed at maximum driving pleasure in total safety.

The Exterior
Designed by the Alfa Romeo Style Centre, the mid-engined preview with 2 seats and rear-wheel drive confirms the brand's excellence in this sector as demonstrated by some of its recognisable Spiders, among the most beautiful in the history of the motor world, such as the Giulietta Spider from the 1950s or the mythical Duetto made famous by the film, The Graduate (1967), up to the captivating Alfa Romeo 8C Spider. And now it is the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider's turn to take to the stand by projecting the technological and emotional values that are part of Alfa Romeo's heritage into the future.

A particular feature of the preview is the exclusive Three-layer Glossy White livery which, with its depth and iridescence, shapes the car, highlighting the sculpted, finely modelled surfaces.

Over the unmistakably elegant Italian 'attire' are the specific carbon roll-bar cover and the striking carbon windscreen ring, which combines the concepts of lightness and resistance, in line with Alfa Romeo's exclusive synthesis of 'functional beauty'.

The search for brand-new stylistic solutions can also be seen in the new clamshell headlights, the distinctive differentiated diameter (18" at the front and 19" at the rear) alloy rims and the large Pirelli tyres.

The Interior design
The elemental design and essential materials also distinguish the interior, which is all designed and built for maximum driving satisfaction. Specifically, the carbon fibre in the interior immediately stands out, used to make the central cell, which has been left in full view to enhance the sense of uniqueness, of technology and light weight. Additionally, to further enhance the unique quality of the spider version, Alfa Romeo's designers have chosen a particular leather upholstery that results from the finest tradition of Italian craftsmanship.

Dimensions and aerodynamics
The preview of the Alfa Romeo 4C Spider has a length of approximately 4 metres and a wheelbase of less than 2.4 metres: these dimensions on the one hand emphasise the car's compact attributes while also accentuating its agility on the other. Owing to the designers' excellent work, the car achieves maximum aerodynamic efficiency levels, maintaining the downforce of the coupé version, which contributes towards achieving increased stability at higher speeds. What's more, thanks to in-depth aerodynamic study, it was possible to minimise the air turbulence in the passenger compartment with the soft top open, making for an equally pleasant drive even when maintaining high speeds.

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Audi A3 Sportback g-tron, 2014

 

 

 Audi A3 Sportback g-tron, 2014

The Audi is taking a large step towards sustainable future mobility with the A3 Sportback g-tron. The five-door premium compact model, which will appear on the market at the end of the year, runs on both the fossil fuel natural gas and on climate-friendly Audi e-gas, which Audi itself produces at a recently completed power-to-gas plant. It innovatively combines ecological balance, economy and high-tech solutions.

The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron, the brand's first natural gas car to go into production, reveals the sheer depth of the technological expertise of Audi - from ultra lightweight technology through the highly advanced infotainment to the driver assistance systems. It showcases state-of-the-art CNG technology (CNG = compressed natural gas), complete with the fuel storage technology. Its two pressurized tanks beneath the trunk floor each hold around seven kilograms (15.43 lb) of gas; they essentially use the recess for the spare wheel, thus impinging only minimally on the load capacity.

These tanks, which store the gas at a pressure of 200 bar, use the ultra lightweight construction principle of Audi: They weigh 70 percent less than conventional steel bottles, each of them weighing 27 kilograms (59.52 lb) less than an equivalent steel version. Their composition reveals an innovative layout: The inner layer consists of a gas-impermeable polyamide matrix, while a second layer of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) gives the tank its extremely high strength; a third layer of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) provides protection against damage from the outside. Epoxy resin is used to bind the fiber reinforced materials.

A second highlight of the Audi A3 Sportback g-tron is its electronic gas pressure regulator. This compact and lightweight component reduces the high pressure of the gas flowing from the cylinders down to around five to nine bar in two stages. It ensures that the right pressure is always present in the gas rail and at the injector valves - low pressure for efficient driving in the lower speed range, and higher when the driver wants more power and torque.

When the pressure in the tank falls below 10 bar when there remains about 0.6 kilogram (1.32 lb) of gas, the engine management automatically switches to gasoline operation. The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron is designed as a bi-fuel concept. In the NEDC cycle it drives over 400 kilometers (248.55 miles) on gas and a further 900 kilometers (559.23 miles) on gasoline, so its overall range is comparable to a TDI. The driver information system always shows current consumption; two displays in the instrument cluster indicate the tanks' fuel level. The filler pipes for both are located behind the same flap.

After refueling, and whenever it is very cold, the Audi A3 Sportback g-tron is started with gasoline initially, then it is switched over to natural gas as quickly as possible. Its engine is a modified 1.4 TFSI; the cylinder head, turbocharger, injection system and catalytic converter are specifically designed to run on gas. With an output of 81 kW (110 hp) and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque, the compact five-door model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in less than 11 seconds; it achieves a top speed of more than 190 km/h (118.06 mph).

The Audi A3 Sportback g-tron is the benchmark in its segment for efficiency and economy. Its CO2 emissions in the exhaust gas remain below 95 grams per km (152.89 g/mile) in the NEDC cycle, and the fuel costs for the customer are around four euros per 100 km (62.14 miles). Over 100 km (62.14 miles), the compact car uses on average less than 3.5 kilograms (7.72 lb) of natural gas or Audi e-gas - the fuel that is produced in the Audi e-gas project from CO2 and water using renewable power. This fuel is a major step into the future of mobility for the brand with the four rings - Audi is the first carmaker to be establishing production facilities for a whole chain of sustainable energy sources.

The e-gas plant that Audi has set up in Werlte (Emsland) involes two major process stages - electrolysis and methanation. In the first step, the plant uses renewable power to break water down into oxygen and hydrogen in three electrolyzers. The hydrogen obtained from this process can be stored separately if required, for powering future fuel-cell vehicles.

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Aston Martin Vanquish Volante, 2014

 

 

 

Aston Martin Vanquish Volante, 2014

Aston Martin unveiled the Vanquish Volante - a stunning new luxury sports car that brings the thrill of open top motoring to the super GT class.

Instantly becoming one of the most beautiful cars in its class, Aston Martin Vanquish Volante crucially retains the coupe's dynamic character and sporting capability. It boasts the same new AM11 6.0-litre V12 engine as the coupe and the same blistering performance figures, meaning the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint is despatched in just 4.1 seconds (estimated) while the top speed stands at 183 mph (294 km/h).

Aston Martin Vanquish Volante is the first fully carbon fibre-skinned Volante in the brand's 100-year history, while also being the stiffest Volante body structure yet created by the engineering team at Aston Martin's global HQ in Gaydon, Warwickshire, England. The new car's triple-skin lightweight fabric roof takes just 14 seconds to fold.

The design of Aston Martin Vanquish Volante represents the latest take on Aston Martin's iconic visual language. Styling cues such as the elegant waist, elongated side strakes and LED rear light blades are derived from the One-77 supercar while the folding fabric roof sits beneath a tonneau and decklid that have been aerodynamically tuned for optimum performance.

The windscreen  is now full height - a first for Aston Martin - which means that the glass runs up to meet the fabric roof, thereby achieving a particularly clean transition.

The Aston Martin Vanquish Volante's 'suit' of carbon fibre panels cloaks a cabin that is both sophisticated and comfortable. The 2+2 cabin is elegantly attired in authentic and luxurious materials: full grain Luxmil leather with optional quilting, metal controls and satin chrome trim underscore the car's well-appointed nature.

The facia trim now stretches down the whole centre stack and is manufactured from a single piece of material giving a uniform finish.

The user interface boasts a simple, ergonomically efficient layout as well as technological updates that make it the brand's most advanced in-car system available today.

Capacitive glass buttons with illumination and haptic feedback feature in the rest of the centre stack's switchgear. Haptic feedback is more commonly found in touch-screen mobile phones and Aston Martin became among the first significant luxury car manufacturers in the world to use the technology in a series production model when it debuted on Vanquish coupe in 2012.

Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman explained: "Vanquish Volante is a sports car, of course, but more even than that it is the ultimate Volante. A car which follows a long line of elegant Aston Martin convertibles, this super GT is sculpted to convey sophistication as much as raw power.

The V12's power peak of 573 PS (565 bhp) arrives at 6,750 rpm while the torque peak of 620 Nm (457 lb ft) is available at 5,500 rpm. These numbers translate into performance that matches the Vanquish coupe's and ensures the new car supports its Super GT billing.

The dynamics have been tuned precisely, with new springs and damper settings calibrated to deliver the same crisp handling yet compliant ride as the coupe.

Strenuous efforts have been made to limit the new car's weight; contributing to its impressive performance, agile handling and compelling power-to-weight ratio. The combination of controlled weight, near-perfect 51:49 weight distribution, a powerful V12 engine and a performance-honed six-speed transmission unite to make the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante as rewarding on the move as it is beautiful standing still.

Like its coupe counterpart, the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante uses the latest generation of Aston Martin's class-leading VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture, a lightweight bonded aluminium structure that provides outstanding strength and rigidity. In this iteration, the Vanquish now includes the addition of significant semi-structural carbon fibre components, as well as the use of bonding derived directly from the latest aerospace technologies.

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Acura TLX Concept, 2014

 

 

 Acura TLX Concept, 2014

The Acura unveiled the Acura TLX Prototype showcasing the design and performance direction for the all-new 2015 TLX performance-luxury sedan launching mid-year at Acura dealerships nationwide. The TLX was developed around the theme"Red Carpet Athlete" to deliver a compelling blend of luxury refinement and sports-sedan athleticism, with exhilarating performance enhanced by next-generation Acura powertrain and dynamic handling technologies. The TLX will join the ILX compact luxury sedan and the RLX luxury performance sedan as the third vehicle in Acura's sedan lineup.

The TLX Prototype, bathed in Acura Athletic Red Pearl, presents a lithe exterior form, taut body surfaces and sports-sedan proportions. Its sporting character is further highlighted by its low and wide stance, shortened front and rear overhangs, dynamically sculpted fender arches, and purposeful character lines. Acura's signature Jewel Eye™ LED headlights imbue the TLX Prototype with an advanced and bright-eyed appearance while producing superior down-the-road illumination. The prototype's custom-designed five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels and 265/35ZR20 low-profile tires accentuate its athletic stance, while the sculpted hood with its sharply creased bilateral ridgelines hints at the performance capabilities of the advanced new Acura powertrain. Another prototype-exclusive feature is the tailor-made side mirrors. Keying off of the Jewel Eye LED headlights, each mirror has a row of LED lights fused into its base. Click on the turn indictor, and the LEDs come to life, spreading a moving glow around the bottom of the mirror for a high-tech, 3D appearance.

Dimensionally, the TLX Prototype presages the production 2015 TLX sedan and is 3.8 inches shorter in overall length (190.2 inches) than the current TL, yet rides on the same 109.3 inch wheelbase as the TL. The prototype's right-sized dimensions place the new TLX neatly in between the smaller ILX and larger RLX sedans. Despite its more compact exterior footprint, the TLX design targets the most spacious interior in the midsize luxury sedan class - roughly on par with the current TL - with an open and airy greenhouse, commanding sight lines, ample cargo capacity and comfortable seating for five adults.

Like any truly world-class athlete, the TLX will pair power and efficiency with deft agility. With its low and wide stance, rigid yet lightweight body, and nimble and responsive chassis, the TLX is designed to deliver confident, precise and refined ride and handling performance in almost any driving situation. From low-stress urban commutes to relaxed long-distance cruising, or adrenaline-inducing runs down twisting country roads, the TLX is designed to be an intuitive and confidence-inspiring driving partner, a vehicle that epitomizes Acura's dynamic concept of "performance at the will of the driver."

The TLX Prototype also communicates the diverse range of advanced technologies and performance options that will be available to Acura TLX customers - including two-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations; two high-performance, highly fuel-efficient new engines; two new advanced transmissions; and the next generation Acura Super-Handling All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) and Precision All-Wheel Steer™ (P-AWS) dynamic performance and handling technologies.

In keeping with the "Red Carpet Athlete" design and development concept, the 2015 TLX's advanced new powertrains will deliver highly responsive, refined and efficient power delivery. An all-new 2.4-liter 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine employs direct-injection and Acura's i-VTEC valvetrain, and is significantly lighter than previous Acura engines of similar configuration and displacement. The new engine is mated to an all-new 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with torque converter. This new 8-speed DCT takes full advantage of the 2.4-liter engine's broad power band, delivering incredibly quick and smooth gear changes, expertly matching engine revs on down shifts, and putting the power down in a responsive and intuitive way.

For even greater power and performance, there is a 3.5-liter SOHC V-6 that also employs direct injection and VTEC variable valve control and cam timing along with fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM™) cylinder deactivation technology. The 3.5-liter V-6 is mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission with closely spaced gear ratios and a wide overall ratio range to further extend engine performance and fuel efficiency. Both the 2.4-liter and 3.5-liter TLX models will target EPA fuel economy ratings at the top of the midsize luxury sedan class.

Two-wheel-drive models with either the 2.4- or 3.5-liter powerplant will utilize the next generation of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer (P-AWS) technology with independent left and right rear wheel toe control. As four-wheel steering becomes an increasingly popular technology on high-performance automobiles, Acura continues to evolve and improve the capabilities of its cutting-edge P-AWS system, first launched on the RLX sedan in 2013, to deliver even more responsive handling, precise steering control and high-speed stability.

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