Hyundai Elantra GT, 2014

 

 

 Hyundai Elantra GT, 2014

Hyundai upped both the horsepower and torque on the refreshed Hyundai Elantra GT to make it even more fun to drive. The GT now includes a standard 2.0-liter Nu Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine, which adds 25 more horsepower (+17 percent) and 23 lb.-ft. of torque (+18 percent) from the prior model year. This powertrain in the Elantra GT produces 173 horsepower available at 6,500 rpm and 154 lb.-ft. of torque on tap at 4,700 rpm. With these gains along with a low curb weight, Elantra GT can now boast the best power-to-weight ratio and specific output in the segment. Furthermore, Elantra GT now produces more horsepower than the Subaru Impreza, Ford Focus, Mazda3 five-door and Volkswagen Golf five-door. To sharpen the look of the 2014 Hyundai Elantra GT, Hyundai engineers added LED taillights. To improve visibility a new integrated driver's blind spot mirror was also added. The 2014 Elantra GT goes on sale in December 2013.

TORQUE-RICH 2.0-LITER NU GASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION ENGINE
The 2014 Elantra GT enjoys the more powerful 2.0-liter Nu engine. Fuel is delivered to the 2.0-liter Nu by a high-pressure Gasoline Direct Injection, which contributes to improved engine response. Power is rated at 173 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 154 lb.-ft. of torque at a 4,700 rpm, which is a significant improvement compared to the 2013 Elantra GT's 1.8-liter engine that developed 148 horsepower and 131 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.0-liter Nu has been tuned to provide more torque at 1,500 rpm than the outgoing 1.8-liter Nu. The engine also delivers more torque - from 4,000 rpm to 5,500 rpm - for impressive linear power delivery all the way up to redline.

The powerplant delivers an impressive 24 mpg city/33 highway EPA estimated fuel economy rating with the available six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC. (When equipped with the six-speed manual, the Elantra GT achieves 24 mpg city/34 mpg highway EPA estimated fuel economy rating).

The performance gains were achieved by stroking the engine from 87.2 mm to 97 mm to increase the displacement of the engine from 1.8 liters to 2.0 liters and equipping it with a GDI fuel delivery system instead of a MPI fuel delivery system. This high-tech, all-aluminum engine also has Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT) and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A lightweight intake manifold also reduces weight by 30 percent over a cast unit. The aluminum "bed plate" located below the cylinder block reduces engine NVH levels and improves block rigidity by 30 percent.

THE BENEFITS OF GASOLINE DIRECT INJECTION
This shorter, more direct path of fuel delivery allows for greater control of the fuel mixture at the optimum moment, thus improving efficiency. The fuel is injected by a camshaft-driven, high pressure pump that operates at pressures up to 2,175 psi. Direct injection also utilizes a higher than normal 11.5:1 compression ratio for increased power. The pistons are "dished" to increase combustion efficiency in the cylinder.

'FLUIDIC SCULPTURE' DESIGN
The 'Fluidic' essence provides the Hyundai Elantra GT with a slippery .30 coefficient of drag. Everything about Elantra GT is aerodynamic from the aggressive profile and low overall height, to the sleek side mirrors. Tire gaps are minimized while rocker panels are streamlined. Lower wind resistance translates into a smoother ride.

Up front, Hyundai's signature hexagonal grille with chrome accents flows into the hood. The bodyside graphic features a chrome beltline molding to keep up with the sleek character lines. Sharp projection headlamps, fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels with chrome spears complete the modern design. It's all finished off in the rear with the new available LED taillights.

THE BENEFITS OF A LOW CURB WEIGHT IN THE COMPACT SEGMENT
Elantra GT's widespread use of high-strength steel allows the suspension to work optimally. At 2,908 pounds, the automatic transmission Hyundai Elantra GT is lighter than most of its competitors, while offering more interior room than Focus, Mazda3 and Golf. Elantra GT is 40 pounds lighter than Focus and 194 pounds lighter than Golf.

SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
The Elantra GT can be equipped with a six-speed manual (M6CF3-1) or automatic (A6GF1) transaxle with SHIFTRONIC manual control. Elantra GT's six-speed manual transmission provides short, crisp shifts and further optimizes engine performance. These crisp shifts are courtesy of triple-cone synchronizers for first and second gears, double-cone for third gear and single-cone for fourth, fifth and sixth gears.

INTERIOR SPACE AND PRACTICALITY
Maximizing interior volume and delighting customers with various seating layouts are hallmarks of Hyundai engineering and translate into more cabin room, cargo space and versatility. The Hyundai Elantra GT features seating layouts that can comfortably seat five people or accommodate four passengers, plus long items like golf clubs or snowboards. Fold down two seats to seat three people and hold larger packages or fold down all of the back seats to get CUV-sized cargo space. These options allow customers to discover that Elantra GT has more interior volume than Mazda3, Ford Focus and VW Golf and even more cargo capacity than the Nissan Juke crossover, thanks to fold-flat rear seats and rear seat cushions that can flip upward.

The Elantra GT includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglasses holder, two front and two rear cup holders, door bottle holders, cooled glove compartment, central console storage, sliding armrest, front storage tray and front seatback pockets. The cargo area also has a 12-volt outlet for consumers who desire to plug in their portable electronic devices.

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Hummer H3T Alpha, 2009

 

 

 

 Hummer H3T Alpha, 2009

HUMMER is bringing its unmistakable style and unmatched capability to the truck market with the 2009 H3T. It is based on the architecture of the popular H3, but features a five-passenger crew cab and a separate five-foot-long (1.5 meters) bed.

The Hummer H3T is bigger than a midsize truck and smaller than a full-size truck, creating its own niche in the market. It also is infused with the attributes expected of a HUMMER, including exceptional off-road capability and a premium interior that is as functional as it is comfortable.

"With its unique size and HUMMER traits, The Hummer H3T is ideal for the customer who works hard and plays harder," said Martin Walsh, HUMMER general manager. "It offers the combination of truck versatility and HUMMER off-road prowess that delivers customers to the trail in style."

In addition to its segment-defying size, The Hummer H3T also stands apart from other trucks with its signature HUMMER off-road capability. It is the only midsize truck to come standard with full-time four-wheel drive, 32-inch tires and functional skid shields. It also is the only midsize truck to offer front and rear locking differentials, as well as 33-inch tires. The V-8-powered H3T Alpha can tow up to 5,900 pounds (2,676 kg).

The Hummer H3T is offered in four trim levels, including five-cylinder models and the popular, V-8-powered H3T Alpha edition. Production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2008 at GM's Shreveport, La., assembly plant, with vehicles arriving at HUMMER dealerships shortly thereafter. HUMMER will sell The Hummer H3T in North America, Europe and the Middle East.

Design
Like all HUMMER models, The Hummer H3T has a purposeful design. Its consistent and iconic styling cues include a wide, aggressive stance; a low roofline and high beltline; and large, off-road tires. The wide, seven-slot grille and round headlamps mounted in square housings are signature HUMMER design elements.

The crew cab body shares H3 styling and components from the B-pillar forward, while the rear section of the cab and the separate bed are unique to The Hummer H3T. The five-foot bed is similar in design and function to GM's recently redesigned full-size trucks, including an easily removable tailgate and provisions for a bed-rail accessory system. A full-size spare tire is mounted beneath the bed.

The bed is sized to carry a wide range of popular outdoor necessities, from hauling motocross bikes to Baja, a quad to camp, or backcountry gear to the trailhead. One of the industry's largest portfolios of accessories complements The Hummer H3T's bed, offering different cargo management options to suit all of those lifestyle interests.

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Honda Civic Tourer, 2014

 

 

 Honda Civic Tourer, 2014

The 2014 Honda Civic Tourer was developed and designed in Europe, allowing Honda's European R&D team to lead the creative and technical design process. The car is specifically designed to match the requirements of European customers and European driving conditions. With the Civic name synonymous with multi-dimensional, compact cars; what better place for the development team to start than with the solid foundations of the Civic 5-door.

The Civics of the 1970s and 1980s had low and sleek exterior styling, which helped to emphasise the car's sporty characteristics; but inside they still delivered roominess and versatility.

As the Civic has evolved over the last 40 years, it has remained true to this marriage of sleek, sporty styling and practicality. Known for its clean, dynamic and distinctive design, the current Civic 5-door uses a unique centre fuel tank layout which sees the tank located under the front seats. This allows for unparalleled interior space and Honda's innovative Magic Seat system. This arrangement is carried over to the Honda Civic Tourer.

Strong Honda heritage in Wagon derivatives in Europe
The Honda Civic Tourer development team has drawn upon many years of experience in developing Wagon body types. The first Honda Wagon was the three door Accord derived AeroDeck introduced in 1986 followed by an Accord Wagon (limited to EU) in 1991. Further Accord Wagon models followed before the Accord Tourer, which was first introduced in 2002.

The first Civic Aero deck was unveiled in 1998 and it was the first Honda exclusively designed for Europe; and the third car to be built at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM), in Swindon, UK. True to Honda's roots in Wagons, the development team set out to combine practicality and style with an above average level of performance. The view of the team at the time was that 'Wagons' may be practical but rarely offer much style to interest keen drivers. Wagon sales across Europe at the time accounted for 16% of the C-segment and were growing steadily in popularity.

The Civic Aero deck set new levels of practicality without sacrificing the equally important qualities of driving enjoyment, comfort and refinement. It is this strong reputation and heritage, which has helped the Honda Civic Tourer development team of 2013 to create a car that will exceed customer expectations and delivers class leading space.

Built in Europe, for Europe
Similarly to the Civic Aerodeck and the current Civic, the new Honda Civic Tourer will be built at Honda's European manufacturing facility, Honda of the UK Manufacturing Ltd (HUM); established in 1985 in Swindon, UK. Honda is committed to manufacturing in the UK and the many awards won by the products built here demonstrate the plant's ability to produce high quality products for the European market.

Producing the whole car (casting, engine assembly, pressing, welding, painting and frame assembly) on one, 370 acre site (1.5 million m2) site. The 1.6 i-DTEC engine which features in the Honda Civic Tourer is also built there, exclusively for the European market. Demonstrating the importance of this new diesel engine to Honda's sales plans in Europe, a new purpose-built diesel engine production line has been installed. This new line is capable of producing up to 500 diesel engines in one day. Operating on a two-shift pattern this equates to one engine every 138 seconds. The new line produces both the 1.6-litre i-DTEC and the 2.2-litre i-DTEC engines.

Types placed emphasis on the following characteristics:

•     Large trunk
•     Practical storage features
•     Roomy interior for the driver and passengers
•     Easy to maneuvere when parking
•     High level of dynamic performance and fuel efficiency

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GMC Yukon XL, 2015

 

 

 GMC Yukon XL, 2015

The GMC announced the all-new 2015 Yukon, Yukon XL and flagship Yukon Denali models will deliver greater capability and refinement, with more power, new fold-flat rear seats and a quieter interior. And thanks to a new family of advanced EcoTec3 engines, the lineup is expected to deliver the segment's best V-8 fuel economy.

Bold styling and advanced technologies - including new safety and security technologies - support Yukon's greater capability, while a more comprehensive list of standard features and enhanced infotainment options are designed to broaden the appeal of one of the industry's most-popular full-size SUV lineups. Combined Yukon/Yukon XL and Denali sales were up 24 percent for the eight months of 2013.

Yukon and Yukon XL share design, architectural and power train elements, but Yukon XL has an approximately 14-inch longer wheelbase and is approximately 20 inches longer overall, providing greater legroom for third-row passengers and almost twice the cargo room behind the third-row seat.

New and enhanced product highlights of the 2015 Yukon lineup:

• Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo capability and convenience - including an available power-folding feature
• Approximately two inches more legroom for second-row passengers and easier entry/exit
• All-new cargo management system
• Available power rear liftgate with multiple programmable height settings
• Standard eight-inch-diagonal color touch screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation
• Eight-inch-diagonal customizable driver display with three available user themes and available head-up display (Denali models)
• Multiple USB ports, SD slots and accessory power outlets - including a 110-volt three-prong outlet - to support electronic devices of all kinds
• Available Blu-ray/DVD rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens on Yukon XL
• Conversation mirror in the overhead console that provides a panoramic view of the rear seats
• Keyless entry and push-button start.

When it comes to safety, the Yukon lineup incorporates new technologies to help protect the driver and passengers before, during and after a collision. They include a forward radar system and the segment's only front seat center-mounted air bag (models with bucket seats), which is engineered to provide additional protection to drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes, where the affected occupant is on the opposite, non-struck side of the vehicle.

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Ford F-150 Tremor, 2014

 

 

 

 Ford F-150 Tremor, 2014

The 2014 Ford F-150 Tremor is the first-ever Eco Boost-powered sport truck that addresses the needs of street truck enthusiasts looking for high-performance V8 power with V6 fuel economy.

The short-wheelbase, regular-cab Tremor goes on sale this fall delivering distinctive looks and performance. The all-new truck couples the style of the FX Appearance Package with an Eco Boost engine and a launch-optimized 4.10 rear axle - the shortest final drive ratio offered in an Eco Boost F-150 - helping provide customers with fast acceleration.

Tremor signals its sport truck capabilities with a custom-inspired FX Appearance Package featuring stealthy, flat-black accents that include unique 20-inch flat-black wheels, stylized body side graphics and black badges with red lettering.

Tremor is the only regular-cab F-150 offering a flow-through center console and bucket seats. Interior touches include black leather seating surfaces with red piping, brushed-metal accents and a red-stitched steering wheel. Alcantara seat inserts add texture and style as well.

Ford F-150 Tremor is powered exclusively by Ford's groundbreaking 3.5-liter Eco Boost engine,  features:

•     365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
•     420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm
•     Twin independent variable camshaft timing for improved performance and fuel economy
•     Up to 90 percent peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm

An electronic locking rear differential that's standard for both two- and four-wheel-drive versions helps deliver the power to the pavement by improving traction during takeoff.
Connectivity comes standard on Ford F-150 Tremor with My Ford Touch powered by SYNC.

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Dodge Challenger RT Shaker, 2014

 

 

 Dodge Challenger RT Shaker, 2014

The Challenger lineup, the new 2014 R/T Shaker model features unique throwback muscle-car cues that link directly to Dodge brand's performance legacy.

The legendary "cold-air grabbing" Shaker not only looks good with its Satin Black center-mounted hood scoop, snorkeling up from the engine compartment, it also directs cooler air back into the HEMI V-8 engine. And like the original 1970 Challenger R/T with the Shaker hood, the new 2014 model continues the Dodge tradition of an engine-mounted hood scoop that "shakes" with the powertrain's movement.

Designed for muscle-car buffs who can't help but tinker with their toys, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine producing over 400 lb.-ft. of torque, with a functional Shaker hood with Mopar cold-air intake, conical air filter and optimized air box for improved airflow and performance. Lift the hood and enthusiasts will also be treated to an under-hood "Shaker" badge - reminiscent of the 1970s original.

In addition to its driver-selectable sport-mode powertrain calibration, performance-tuned suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and steering calibration, the Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker includes the Super Track Pak, with high-performance steering gear, brake linings and monotube shock absorbers, P245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 Super Car three-season tires and three-mode electronic stability control (ESC) with "full off" mode. All-season performance tires are available at no extra charge.

The new engine setup provides a new factory-designed foundation to maximize three all-new Dodge "Scat Packages," enabling customers to unleash even more power from their Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker.

For a dynamically striking look, a new "Shaker style" Satin Black hood, roof and deck-lid stripe graphics visually translate this Dodge Challenger model's name, while a Satin Black deck-lid spoiler provides the added downforce needed for 155 mph max-speed runs. For contrast, a body-color grille surround and Gloss Black fuel-filler door are added, while all-new 20 x 8-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black pockets and a satin "matte" clear coat feature a sculptured five-spoke design. For added detail, "Shaker" badges flank both sides of the hood scoop, while "HEMI" fender badges and a new "Challenger" grille badge in classic script completes the iconic exterior.

On the inside, the new Dodge Challenger R/T Shaker features a unique three-spoke flat-bottom leather-wrapped performance steering wheel with black accent finish and integrated vehicle controls. Corresponding with the steering wheel is a unique "K-Black" painted instrument panel and center-console bezel for a discrete look. Matching the "Shaker" numbered dash plaque are door bolsters with graduated accent stitching that mirrors the logo's artistic reverberation. High-performance front seats with aggressive bolsters in premium Nappa Leather in Dark Slate Gray with Sepia accent stitching or Radar Red with Radar Red stitching, feature the "Shaker" logo embroidered on the seat back, along with unique graduated horizontal plow-throughs. For additional detail, the center console armrest is also leather wrapped and finished with accent thread. The aluminum pistol-grip shifter mated to a track-proven Tremec six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a black leather-wrapped shift-knob and die-cast paddle shifters on the back of the steering wheel are available for those who opt for the performance-tuned five-speed automatic.

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Fiat 500e, 2014

 

 

 Fiat 500e, 2014

Designing city-friendly, environmentally responsible and fun-to-drive small cars is what the FIAT brand and its "Simply More" belief stand for. The all-new 2014 Fiat 500e electrifies the next chapter of the brand's legacy by embodying the FIAT brand's simple, purposeful and fun-to-drive values - through iconic style, engaging dynamics and an environmentally responsible zero-emissions design.

Designed to be a no-compromise electric vehicle (EV), the 2014 Fiat 500e builds on the Cinquecento's successful small-car formula, while adding an all-new battery-electric powertrain that produces 111 horsepower (83 kW), recharges in less than 4 hours with its Level 2 (240 volt) on-board charging module (OBCM) and delivers more than 80 miles of estimated range, with city driving range typically exceeding 100 miles without any tailpipe emissions.

Making sure the all-new 2014 Fiat 500e delivers world-class EV handling and braking performance, engineers designed a new chassis and suspension for the new EV powertrain, while further solidifying the engaging European driving dynamics the FIAT brand and Cinquecento are known for.

The all-new Fiat 500e pushes its iconic Italian design forward with its wind-tunnel-sculpted shape and retro-futuristic dot-matrix styled cues for a cutting-edge look. To achieve a 13 percent improvement in aerodynamics (0.311 coefficient of drag (Cd) compared to the 2013 Fiat 500 Lounge's 0.359 Cd), the Fiat 500e features eight exterior enhancements and more than 140 hours of wind tunnel testing and refinement. The result is a purposeful design that enables this Cinquecento to achieve an additional five miles of range.

Inside, 2014 Fiat 500e fuses retro-futuristic design with unique EV technology elements for an environment comprised of simplicity with innovation. An all-new 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) instrument cluster displays full-color picture graphics to illustrate vehicle functions, charge levels and trip summary. In addition, a new TomTom Navigation unit enables the driver to view the vehicle's charge schedule, range, and power-flow gauges, and can even request nearby charging stations with real-time availability. Below its instrument panel bezel, the 2014 Fiat 500e also includes an all-new electronic shifter with easy-to-use push-button transmission mode selection. For added style, the interior environment is available in Nero (black) or exclusive Steam (white), highlighted by Electric Orange to bring even more design character to this Cinquecento.

Keeping passengers of the Fiat 500e connected to vehicle information is an all-new Fiat 500e Smartphone App (compatible with iPhone and Android) that enables real-time vehicle status, manages charging, tracks the driver's energy use, locates the vehicle and nearby charging stations, plans and sends routes to the vehicle and provides text-message alerts.

The Design
With its iconic proportions, wind-tunnel-sculpted Italian curves and graphically enhanced design elements, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500e redefines electric vehicle (EV) styling while adding to the Cinquecento's global reputation of automotive efficiency for more than 55 years. And with the available e-Sport Package, the Fiat 500e adds a more aggressive blacked-out appearance that hints at its athletic character.

Improved aerodynamics via retro-futuristic styling cues harking back to 1960s-era design
The all-new 2014 Fiat 500e takes the city-friendly proportions and iconic Cinquecento cues of the Fiat 500 hatchback model further with purposeful aerodynamic treatment and retro-futuristic styled design cues to highlight its environmentally friendly battery-electric capability.

For designers and engineers of the Fiat 500e, minimizing drag while keeping the iconic styling of the Cinquecento was of the upmost importance. The recognizable Fiat 500 physiognomy - its "whiskers and logo" face with bi-halogen headlamps and lower park and fog lamps - continue the FIAT brand's familiar DNA. Below, a two-piece front fascia features a uniquely sculpted surface for minimal drag, while providing the necessary airflow inlets to cool the 500e's electrical components. With its lower dot-matrix patterned fascia, the all-new Fiat 500e recalls a futuristic theme that was present during the popularity of the original Cinquecento's birth. For added detail, the fascia insert features projector-beam fog lamps and the "500e" logo.

Designers developed wind-tunnel-sculpted front and rear fascias, exterior mirror caps, side sills, and introduced a liftgate mounted aero spoiler extending the vehicle's roofline. All of these elements work to reduce the Fiat 500e's drag coefficient and improve the vehicle's aerodynamic performance. The vertically enhancing side sills also tie in the gradient pattern and "500e" logo from the front fascia. Below, the two-piece rear fascia echos the dot-matrix styled diffuser and "500e" logo featured on the front of this electrified Cinquecento.

A Fiat 500e exclusive wheel design features a premium painted Argento (silver) face with Nero (black) finished aero inserts. Unique 15 x 5.5-inch (front) and 15 x 6.5-inch (rear) wheel fitments feature a flush design for optimal aerodynamics.

More than 140 hours of wind-tunnel sculpting for a 13 percent aero improvement
For the all-new Fiat 500e to achieve a 0.311 coefficient of drag (Cd) (compared to the 2013 Fiat 500 Lounge model's 0.359 Cd), eight exterior refinements were developed in the wind tunnel to enable the 48 count drag reduction. The result of hours of wind-tunnel testing is a design that enables this battery-electric Cinquecento to achieve an additional five miles of range.

The 2014 Fiat 500e's eight functional exterior system improvements:

•     Front fascia sealing
•     Aerodynamically optimized front fascia design
•     Flush profile 15-inch aluminum wheels
•     Streamlined exterior mirror caps
•     Under vehicle bellypans
•     Wind-tunnel-sculpted side sills
•     Drag reducing rear fascia design
•     Liftgate-mounted aerodynamic spoiler

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Ferrari California T, 2015

 

 

 Ferrari California T, 2015

The Ferrari California T epitomises the sublime elegance, sportiness, versatility and exclusivity that have distinguished every California model since the 1950s.
It is a car brimming with innovation that will more than meet the expectations of discerning clients for whom fun behind the wheel is a priority, but who also demand a sumptuously comfortable Grand Tourer they can use every day.

The California T is a brilliant expression of Ferrari's sporty DNA, while its retractable hard top (RHT) and 2+ configuration, amongst other features, make it supremely versatile.

Like all Ferraris, the California T boasts cutting-edge technological solutions that make it absolutely unique, most notably the new turbocharged V8 engine. Turbo technology has an honourable place in Prancing Horse's engineering tradition, thanks to iconic models of the likes of the GTO of 1984 and the F40 of 1987. It is now also, of course, back at the heart of our latest F1 single-seater.

Maranello's engineers have managed to design a remarkable power unit that combines classic Ferrari engine qualities, such as razor-sharp responsiveness, blistering performance, superbly powerful acceleration at all speeds and an exhilarating soundtrack, with the advantages turbo technology, such as drastically reduced emissions and fuel consumption, a high specific power output and compact dimensions. A genuinely unprecedented achievement that sets a new benchmark for the industry.

The California T sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds flat and from 0 to 200 km/h in 11.2 seconds. It is also more fuel efficient to the tune of approximately 15 per cent than the previous California despite punching out an extra 70 CV and 49 per cent more torque in 7th gear. Emissions have also been cut to 250 g/km on the combined cycle, the equivalent of a 20 per cent reduction in the CO2/horsepower ratio (0.44 gr/cv). As a consequence the car's range increases by 15 per cent.

The new model also boasts true sports car dynamics, thanks to lower steering wheel activity and quicker steering courtesy of a new steering box and new suspension set-up. New springs and latest-generation Magnaride dampers (now more than 50 per cent faster), combined with body motion accelerometers, reduce roll and pitch to deliver more precise handling whilst still guaranteeing an incredibly comfortable ride.

The car's electronic systems are also the state-of-the-art in the sector with the latest evolution of the F1-Trac and the ESP 8.0 Premium, both of which help make the car even more responsive, underscoring its nimble sports car dynamics.

The combination of the California T's uncompromising architecture, dynamic controls and new engine guarantees consistent fun behind the wheel both in challenging and more relaxed driving conditions, in perfect Grand Tourer style.

Meticulous and in-depth design work has retained the dimensions of the previous model yet endowed the California T with a whole new personality. The car's proportions were penned by the Ferrari Styling Centre in collaboration with Pininfarina, and are very much in line with Ferrari's front-engined ethos.

The California T's cabin exudes a sense of warmth and craftsmanship, and was designed to be as ergonomic as possible, with luxurious semi-aniline leather trim. The space on-board is flexible too, and owners can make the most efficient use of its generous boot capacity even with the top down, thanks to the communication between the luggage compartment and rear seats.

The Engine
Every Ferrari engine is the product of the incredible well of cutting-edge technological know-how that makes all Maranello's cars unlike any others.

Responsive commands, instant throttle response, exceptional performance combined with high revs, a torque curve that increases constantly across the rev range and an exhilarating signature soundtrack are all very much part of the spec of every Ferrari engine. However, the new V8 enhances these characteristics and combines them with the superb fuel efficiency, high specific power output and extreme compactness afforded by turbocharging.

In developing the new power unit, Ferrari's engineers approached the project with a new take on turbo technology that overcame traditional constraints, such as turbo lag, low maximum revs and a less than thrilling sound. In fact, they have not only retained but actually underscored these Ferrari characteristics in this new engine.

The resources Ferrari poured into the design and development of a V8 turbo that would set a new benchmark for the industry have produced a completely new power unit that is absolutely unique, thanks to a singular mix of in-house design expertise, the use of advanced design and simulation software, sophisticated production systems shared with the Scuderia racing team, and a development programme that ran for over four years.

The new direct-injection 3855 cc V8 turbo punches out a maximum of 560 CV, yielding a specific power output of 145 CV/l, the highest in its category, in addition to maximum torque of 755 Nm in 7th gear. Throttle response is razor sharp and the engine boasts an exceptionally broad power band that goes all the way up to 7500 rpm.

Numerous sophisticated technologies have been adopted to deliver these extraordinary performance figures, not least:

• twin-scroll turbochargers that ensure more rapid spool up, with a design that optimizes the exhaust gas pulsation from the cylinders into the turbine, allowing equally-spaced pressure peaks for each turbine scroll, thus reducing turbo-lag;
• compact turbines which thus have a lower moment of inertia to minimise response times;
• the classic Ferrari flat-plane crankshaft which, even with the turbochargers, provides even firing between the two cylinder banks as well as lower rotating mass and inertia.
• "high-tumble" intake manifolds to maximise combustion efficiency;
• ion-sensing system with adaptive ignition and multi-spark functionality which optimise combustion both under high and partial loads across the engine's rev range;
• lubrication system with a variable-displacement oil pump that supplies oil at either high pressure or low pressure, reducing the hydraulic power requirements by up to 30 per cent compared to a conventional pump;
• cylinder heads with roller finger followers to reduce the power absorbed by the valvetrain by 10 per cent at low revs;
• exhaust headers with equal-length pipes to optimise pulsations and equalise the exhaust sound.

Vehicle dynamics
To make the California T's handling as nimble as possible while exploiting the new V8's performance to the full for maximum driving pleasure and versatility in urban and day-to-day contexts, development centred around the following:

•     less steering wheel activity and quicker steering;
•     reduced body roll for improved dynamics;
•     improved handling and better control on the limit;
•     a feeling of greater chassis dynamics without impinging on ride comfort.

Infotainment system
The California T's Grand Tourer spec includes, significantly, a new highly intuitive infotainment system designed to ensure easy navigation and instant access to other functionalities.

• a WVGA screen;
• a new, simplified HMI with option to access all functions, either via full-touch screen or buttons;
• a Diversity antenna which improves reception and delivers a stronger, clearer signal at high speeds and between buildings;
• new DAB antenna capable of picking up digital signals and thereby offering excellent sound quality, including radio;
• sat nav with 3D mapping for easier routing;
• USB ports in the compartment under the armrest to ensure drivers' and passengers' devices are within hand's reach.

All of the menus have been upgraded as well and now feature simpler commands and dedicated functions, making navigation between multimedia content and telephone contacts much simpler.
The new premium audio system boasts new dedicated speakers and an 8-channel amp. Drivers that demand the finest sound quality can order the powerful JBL Professional system which has 12 speakers and a 16-channel amp for a total power output of 1280 W.

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