Hyundai Equus, 2014

 

 

 Hyundai Equus, 2014

The Hyundai Motor America introduced the redesigned 2014 Equus premium luxury sedan in a North American debut at the 2013 New York International Auto Show with enhancements to exterior and interior design, vehicle dynamics, material selection, driver technology displays and advanced safety features. Hyundai Equus has been an impressive success story for Hyundai; so far this year, Equus is the number-one shopped premium luxury sedan, well ahead of Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, and Jaguar XJ according to industry shopping analysis by Compete.

The Exterior Design
The 2014 Equus exterior enhancements convey a premium-sport design message, starting with a new 19-inch turbine-blade alloy wheel design in a polished silver finish that relays motion whether parked or on the open highway. The front grille chrome bars are thinner, with sharper contrast to the blacked-out portions of the grille for a sportier look. The front fascia also has been redesigned, with the former chrome accents removed in favor of a modern premium appearance that includes lower fascia opening strakes. The headlamps offer jeweled design elements and include chrome contrasted with black-out finishes for a distinctive appearance. New LED fog lamps are now standard. Side mirrors have been redesigned for enhanced aerodynamics and tail lamp graphics move to a more horizontal theme.

The Interior Design
Hyundai engineers wanted the 2014 Equus interior to perfectly complement the enhancements to its exterior. Thus, the themes of premium and performance again greet the driver behind the wheel. The entire instrument panel and center stack have been redesigned with more premium materials and an ergonomically-correct layout, with new button iconography for quicker and easier feature recognition. The center console and shift lever reveal more premium material selection and contemporary premium-luxury design cues. Steering wheel control layout has been improved, with new low-sheen button designs and icons. Similarly, rear passengers will enjoy a new rear console and button layout, with available dual 9.2-inch, high-resolution, adjustable seatback video screens to enjoy movies, audio media, HVAC or seating functions. Rear passengers can even search restaurant locations and provide navigation system directions directly to the driver's navigation screen.

The Vehicle Dynamics
2014 Hyundai Equus driving dynamics also have been revised to minimize traditional ride and handling compromises, with Normal and Sport modes each taking on a more differentiated ride and handling character. The air suspension was recalibrated: Sport mode receives more controlled damping, while Normal mode receives slightly enhanced ride comfort while retaining a well-controlled handling demeanor. The front suspension bushings were also revised to enhance suspension function. For those customers that experience adverse weather conditions such as ice and snow, a new Snow mode function was added to the drive mode system, for both safety and ease of control in challenging road conditions.

On winding country and mountain roads, the Equus benefits from the precise wheel articulation delivered by its five-link front and rear suspension geometry. This geometry is maximized through Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which continually monitors road and driving dynamics and optimizes damping force accordingly. The standard 19-inch alloy wheel and tire package with staggered width tires (P245/45R19 front P275/40R19 rear) offers excellent grip and precise control.

Technologies
All Equus driver-interface displays have been improved for 2014, with a larger, 7-inch Thin-film Transistor (TFT) LCD center cluster display for Signature models, a large 12.3-inch, fully-digital TFT LCD center cluster display for Ultimate models, and a larger, standard 9.2-inch center instrument panel LCD display. New, dual high-resolution 9.2-inch rear seat entertainment monitors have been fitted in place of the former single monitor for rear passengers in the Ultimate model. All of Hyundai Equus' new displays are larger and more legible, featuring premium-quality, high-resolution graphics. The Ultimate model's larger, fully-digital LCD display now offers various driver menus that can be accessed directly via steering wheel haptic dial control, helping to keep the driver's hands on the wheel for minimal driving distraction.

The climate control system now offers three distinct cabin temperature zones for driver, passenger, and rear passengers. The standard smart cruise control system has been enhanced to include a full 0-mph stop-and-start function for use in stop-and-go traffic. The smart proximity key now includes both key-fob and card-key types of vehicle entry for greater driver convenience. Ultimate models now feature an automatic power door closure assist function; once a door manually approaches full closure, a power function slowly and quietly ensures the door is fully secured for peace of mind. Also on the Ultimate model, both rear outboard passengers now have power lumbar support.

Powerful 5.0-Litter TAU V8 Engine

The 2014 Equus is powered by Hyundai's 5.0-liter Tau DOHC V8 engine, producing 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm, with a higher specific output (85.8 hp/liter) than its normally-aspirated premium luxury competitors. The Tau V8 engine creates this high output level while retaining exceptionally smooth power delivery throughout its rpm range, without the turbo lag and surge exhibited by some forced-induction engines.

The 5.0-liter Tau also features direct injection technology. This high-pressure direct injection system (over 2,200 psi) dramatically increases power and torque, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The 5.0-liter Tau has a high 11.5:1 compression ratio for greater thermal efficiency and output. It also has a bed plate for improved block rigidity and lower NVH, as well as camshaft carriers and a roller timing chain to improve valvetrain stability.

This V8 engine offers premium engine technologies, including Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), a tuned variable induction system, and low-friction diamond-like coatings (DLC) on piston skirts, rings and tappets. Even with these impressive power increases, fuel economy is estimated at 15 mpg city, 23 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined.

GENEROUS FEATURE PACKAGING
For 2014, Equus Signature and Ultimate packages are both so generously equipped that no factory options are available. The ultimate buyers benefit from the following new standard features added to all Hyundai Equus models:

•     Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
•     Smart Cruise Control (with added 0-mph stop/start capability)
•     New LED fog lamps
•     Rear Cross-traffic Alert
•     Additional "card-type" proximity key entry
•     Blue Link telematics capability
•     Navigation system with 9.2-inch LCD screen (formerly 8.0-inch)
•     Three-zone climate control system (formerly two-zone type)

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Honda Crider, 2014

Honda Crider, 2014

Honda introduced the Crider, a mass-production vehicle based on the Concept C (a concept model for a middle-class sedan developed for the Chinese market), which was introduced at the 2012 Beijing Motor Show. Developed under a design concept based on an image of a dragon, the Crider features top-class vehicle size, an energetic exterior design and dynamic performance that exceeds other vehicles in its class. The Crider is a middle-class sedan developed for Chinese customers mainly by Honda's Chinese associates.

The Honda Crider is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 139 hp and 172 Nm (126 lb-ft) of torque. The engine comes as standard with a five-speed manual transmission or with the optional five-speed automatic transmission. The Crider is 4650 mm long, 1750 mm wide and has a height of 1505 mm with a 2650 mm wheelbase. Pricing starts at 114,800 RMB in China. [source: Honda]

Information summary
The body:  sedan/saloon with 4/5 seats
long: 4650 mm
Heavy: 1240 kg
Engine: 1.8 litre, 1798 cm3
Cylinders: 4, Straight
Power: 138 PS / 136.5 bhp / 102 kW @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 172 Nm / 127 ft.lb / 17.5 kgm @ 4300 rpm

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Ford Fiesta Sedan, 2014

 

 

 Ford Fiesta Sedan, 2014

The fuel efficiency and fun
The most dramatic and distinctive Ford Fiesta to date will deliver the best miles per gallon among its rivals, led by Ford's patented new 1.0-liter Eco Boost engine. This landmark engine, already selected for both the Popular Mechanics 2012 Breakthrough Award and Engine Technology International's International Engine of the Year Award in Europe, is expected to deliver more than 40 mpg.

Eco Boost is fundamental to Ford's strategy to provide technologically advanced, high-output, smaller-displacement powertrains that deliver uncompromised performance and fuel economy. Eco Boost engines deliver fuel economy gains of up to 20 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions of up to 15 percent, compared with larger, less-efficient engines. Ford's leadership with Eco Boost has resulted in more than 125 patents on the technology. Currently, more than 500,000 vehicles have this engine and by 2013 more than 1.3 million will have Eco Boost.

A triple threat of fuel-saving features - variable-displacement oil pumps, polished tappets and coded pistons - appears together for the first time in the 1.6-liter Ford Fiesta, giving drivers maximum miles per gallon without sacrificing driving fun.

The small is smart
In addition to its new EcoBoost engine, Ford Fiesta boasts a best-in-class suite of technologies and features that give drivers the perfect blend of a connected world and an untethered driving experience.

A new My Ford Touch system with 6.5-inch touch screen that features enhanced voice control is now available, providing drivers more options than ever for navigation, communication and entertainment functions. Ford Fiesta still features SYNC App Link capabilities pioneered on the first Fiesta, which allows drivers to access and control Ford-approved smartphone apps with voice commands and vehicle controls while on the go, helping drivers keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Turn-by-turn navigation remains part of SYNC Services.

The Ford's My Key is a new feature on Fiesta, which enables parents in particular to encourage safer driving and limit their teenagers' exposure to risk at the wheel. The system allows owners to configure maximum speed and audio volume limits. It also mutes audio until seat belts are fastened and ensures driver aids, safety systems and more vigorous alerts cannot be deactivated when used.

Built to excite the right-brain driver
Proving to be every bit as creative as its owner, the new Fiesta will offer custom exterior design graphics and sexy new color options. The redesigned exterior boasts a sporty new grille that reflects the new face of Ford.

Inside, things are just as expressive. The cell phone-inspired dashboard and available leather steering wheel and seats amplify the modern interior and entice drivers to get in the car and get on the move. A selection of ambient lighting options allows Ford Fiesta drivers to set just the mood they want. Also available is a new Sony HD audio/satellite radio with eight premium speakers for drivers to more fully appreciate their music.

Big on safety
This continues to be a small car that is big on safety. Ford Fiesta offers the following standard safety features:

•     Advance Trac with Electronic Stability Control
•     Dual-stage first-row airbags
•     Driver knee airbag
•     Side-impact airbags
•     Side-curtain airbags
•     Four-wheel anti-lock braking system
•     LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
•     Tire Pressure Monitoring System
•     Child-safety rear locks
•     Anti-theft engine immobilizer
•     Improved side-impact safety capabilities

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Fiat 695 Abarth Biposto, 2015

 

 Fiat 695 Abarth Biposto, 2015

The Fiat Abarth 695 was presented for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in 1964. With 699.5 cc displacement and maximum power of 30 HP, the car reached a top speed of 130 km/h and was appreciated for its agility and versatility, both in town and on mixed routes. The most evident characteristic of the Abarth 695 was the improvement in acceleration: from 60 to 80 km/h in 5.2 seconds.

Fifty years later, Abarth once more chooses Geneva as the stage for the début of the new Abarth 695: 190 HP and 997 kg guarantee that the '695 biposto' can offer the best weight-to-power ratio (5.2 kg/HP) and the best acceleration (0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds) in the category. The result is the fastest street legal Abarth ever built.

From its founding to the present day, Abarth has never shrunk from challenges that at times seem impossible: the fastest, high-performance street legal Abarth ever produced is its latest victory. A car bursting with energy, with components typical of race cars adapted for the road.

Every car has always represented a challenge, an opportunity for improvement: Abarth created, starting from the most common mini cars of the era, cars with striking performance, intended "for speedy tourism and sport competitions".

Cars developed following the original Abarth 'formula' which, taking the right dose of well-defined elements, makes the brand unique and recognisable: rarity and accessibility, tradition, performance tuning, Italian style and passion for racing.

The models derived from the Fiat 600 are examples of how a 'visionary' such as Carlo Abarth could make dreams reality: a genuine factory of speed, Abarth successfully achieved a high level of both refinement in terms of style and performance. A story of products marked by great craftsmanship, with the Fiat Abarth 1000 Berlina gruppo 2 1970 being the most advanced and incredible interpretation of the Fiat 600: 100 HP and top speed of 190 km/h.

'695 biposto': the most Abarth of all Abarths
The Abarth 695 biposto is not a Limited Edition, but it is certainly a car for 'special' drivers. For those who can show that they know how to drive it.

The essence of Abarth distilled in a single car that aims straight for the heart, for the very core, of Abarth: the "size", a defining characteristic of Abarth, an Italian "small supercar", and "racing", passion for speed and the challenges that every day brings.

The search for the best materials and technologies, the know-how of Abarth engineers and a 'drop of madness' have always characterised Abarth cars and are the elements that went into the creation of this car: two seats and racing-inspired components for a high-performance car with a natural calling for the track.

The '695 biposto' was conceived as deliberately essential: a car unafraid of shedding the compromises typical of road-going cars to increase performance.

The 'drop of madness' that has allowed Abarth to create a history of successes is clear to see in some elements of the new car, such as the gearbox with dog rings - for the first time on a road-going car, currently in its category - and the fixed front windows with polycarbonate sliding panels (a high-performance technical material used for sports equipment and aeroplane windows due to its flexibility and resistance, supplied by Isoclima, a company with 20 years of experience with the most prestigious partners in the world of racing).

The choice to use racing-inspired parts for a road-going car represents a new victory: the Abarth '695 biposto' is the most extreme 500 ever built. This is demonstrated by the front intercooler, Akrapovic exhaust system, Extreme Shox adjustable shock absorbers, MXL digital data logger, Abarth Corsa by Sabelt seats with 4-point seat belts, Brembo braking system, lightened 18-inch OZ rims and rear titanium roll bar by Poggipolini.

As in racing cars however, performance come only through selection: sacrificing the superfluous, like rear seats, xenon headlights, fog lights, climate control, electric windows and radio system, to ensure the best possible performance.

An 'adrenaline-charged' car that brings together racing performance and the versatility of a road-going car. And in fact, it's the road-going reinterpretation of the Abarth 695 Assetto Corse, competitor on racetracks throughout Europe and made in the Officine Abarth Mirafiori in Turin: craftsmanship and attention to detail, typical of Abarth's most exclusive cars, meet the best of race car technology.

Exhilarating performance of a true supercar
A perfect fusion that shows what it's made of starting with the exhilarating performance: with a weight of just 997 kg and the 1.4 T-Jet engine, brought to 190 HP for the first time on a road-going car, the Abarth '695 biposto' is the car with the best weight-to-power ratio (5.2 kg/HP) and the best acceleration (0-100 km/h in 5.9") in the category, reaching a top speed of 230 km/h.

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Ferrari F12berlinetta, 2013

 

 

 

 Ferrari F12berlinetta, 2013

The Ferrari F12berlinetta ushers in a new generation of Ferrari 12-cylinders in the form of a car that delivers unprecedented performance from an exceptional new engine, unparalleled handling and innovative design and aerodynamics.

Every time Ferrari has unveiled a new 12-cylinder sports car since 1947, something magical has happened. Perhaps this has to do with the fact that our very first car, the 125 S, was itself a 12-cylinder or maybe it's because purists see the 12-cylinder as the engine size par excellence. Be that as it may, every time a Prancing Horse car of this kind makes its debut, it hails the start of a new era. There have been several 12-cylinder models built here at Maranello that have gone down in the annals of automotive history because of their technological prowess and the results they've delivered. The 1953 375 America, for instance, had an engine derived directly from the F1 single-seater of the day, while the 250 GTO in the 1960s was the perfect melding of styling and performance. That list must also include, of course, the 1969 365 GTB4, better known simply as the Daytona, which, thanks to its brilliantly balanced architecture delivered absolutely unique driving emotions. All of these engines and cars are now eagerly sought after by collectors the world over and each one represented major generational leap forward when it debuted. The story continues today with the Ferrari F12berlinetta which is not merely our latest mid-front 12-cylinder model but the first in a whole new generation of this kind of car. In fact, it is the most high performance Ferrari ever built yet it still effortlessly marries extreme performance with benchmark efficiency, delivering fuel consumption and emissions levels that are 30% lower than the previous generation. The challenge for our engineers and technicians this time was to create a front-engined car with blistering performance that was still able to offer the same driving pleasure and involvement at lower speeds. A difficult task because it meant improving on the design of the 599 GTB Fiorano, deemed the most beautiful Ferrari ever. However, their commitment and determination has produced a car sporting an exceptional new 740 hp mid-front V12 engine that delivers 690 Nm of torque.

Its engine and driver's seat have both been lowered, the wheelbase is shorter and a new suspension and gearbox layout have helped compact the rear. The result is a more compact car than the 599 GTB Fiorano. One that also has perfect weight distribution with 54% over the rear axle and a lower, pulled-back centre of gravity to boot. Thanks to all these characteristics, the Ferrari F12berlinetta delivers truly exceptional performance figures: 0-200 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a lap time at Fiorano of just 1'23". The Ferrari F12berlinetta's spaceframe chassis and bodyshell are both entirely new too and employ 12 different aluminium alloys - some being used for the first time in the automotive sector - and an array of leading-edge assembly and joining technologies. This helped cut the car's overall weight to just 1,525 kg and maximise its performance efficiency, boosting torsional rigidity by 20%. As with every Ferrari, the F12berlinetta's aerodynamics were developed hand-in-glove with its styling, resulting in a plethora of innovative solutions. Not least of these are the Aero Bridge, which uses the car's bonnet to create downforce for the first time, and Active Brake Cooling, a system of guide vanes on the brake air ducts which open when brake operating temperatures are high enough. The result is that the Ferrari F12berlinetta is the most aerodynamically efficient Ferrari ever (a figure of 1.12 - double that of the 599 GTB Fiorano) with a Cd of 0.299 and downforce of 123 kg at 200 km/h.

The product of the ongoing collaboration between the Ferrari Style Centre and Pininfarina, the Ferrari F12berlinetta's design centres around the car's brilliantly bilance proportions. It has an original innovative style featuring typical Ferrari 12-cylinder styling cues. Clothed in sleek, aggressively sculpted lines, it offers a superb standard of occupant space and comfort despite its compact exterior dimensions too.

The Powertrain
The Ferrari F12berlinetta's 200-bar, direct-injection 6262 cc 65° V12 delivers absolutely unprecedented performance for a naturally aspirated 12-cylinder engine. It has a maximum power output of 740 CV at 8250 rpm, while its specific power output is a record-breaking 118 CV/l. Responsiveness and strong pick-up is guaranteed by maximum torque of 690 Nm, 80 per cent of which is already on tap at 2500 rpm, with a constant surge of power all the way up to the 8700 rpm rev limit. Just as is the case with F1 engines, the V12 has very low inertia and thus revs rise very rapidly.

Driving involvement is intensified by the rich, full exhaust soundtrack typical of Ferrari'snaturally-aspirated V12s. The Ferrari F12berlinetta's performance levels give a good idea of the engine's incredible efficiency, where both fuel consumption and emissions are now 30 per cent lower thanks to the Stop&Start system, a "smart" alternator, and Multispark ignition system. These, along with numerous other technical solutions, have reduced internal friction making the F12berlinetta best-in-class for its power-emissions ratio.

The car's compression ratio has also been increased to 13.5:1 and a new 3.0 ECU has been adopted that uses ionisation currents to control sparking and detect misfires. The Multispark ignition generates three sparks of different durations and intensities in quick succession. At low engine speeds, this optimises combustion and, consequently, lowers fuel consumption. The engine is also equipped with Stop&Start and a "smart" alternator which recharges the battery only when there is no demand for power. Meticulous attention was also paid to reducing internal friction, exhaust backpressure and intake depressurisation. The cylinder block has four oil scavenge pumps with rotors using smaller diameter blades which optimise extraction efficiency. Lubrication is guaranteed by an engine oil pump with variable geometry. The design of the pistons includes an anodising treatment to the first piston groove, with PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating on the first piston ring and Graphal-coated piston skirts. All of this reduces friction between the piston and the cylinder liner. The camshafts are super-finished using a lapping process that reduces surface roughness to under 0.05 Ra, thus minimising the coefficient of friction between the cam lobes and the tappets. The tappets themselves have been given a DLC (Diamond Like Carbon) coating that reduces their coefficient of friction, increasing performance and reducing fuel consumption.

The cylinder head features different conduit designs, new intake manifolds and new plenums fitted with resonators. The resonators create overpressure inside the intake tract the moment the intake valve opens and immediately before it closes, guaranteeing improved cylinder filling and generating a powerful supercharging effect which increases engine performance. The whole exhaust sequence has also been optimised - the catalysers have been miniaturised and hydroformed manifolds have been adopted, reducing their form and size without impinging on their capacity, resulting in improved permeability and reduced backpressure. The system's geometry and materials have been developed to harmonise the intake and exhaust soundtracks to underscore the car's extremely sporty character. All of the pipes connecting the 6-in-1 exhaust manifold to the single catalyser per bank are of equal length and this optimises the sound giving predominance to the first-order combustion harmonics. The characteristic engine sound can clearly be heard in the cockpit in all driving conditions.

The seven-speed F1 dual-clutch transmission boosts both performance and ride comfort at once. The technology involved is based on the independent management of odd and even gears which are pre-selected using two different in-put shafts. Gear shifting time - calculated as the overlap between the opening and closing phases of the two clutches - is thus zero and there is no interruption of torque delivery to the wheels. Shortened ratios have been developed for the Ferrari F12berlinetta and 7th gear is a direct ratio, not an overdrive, to ensure that the car's huge performance potential can be exploited in every gear. The E-Diff3 electronic differential has also been integrated into the gearbox, helping to cut the car's overall weight.

The Architecture
The Ferrari F12berlinetta delivers truly extraordinary performance and driving involvement thanks to its highly evolved transaxle architecture which was developed with extremely ambitious objectives in mind. These were to reduce overall weight, lower and move the centre of gravity rearwards in the chassis, and reduce the car's frontal area whilst contemporaneously increasing passenger and luggage space compared to the previous V12 coupé to ensure maximum comfort over lengthier journeys. To achieve these objectives, the engineers lowered the engine, dashboard and seats. Furthermore the rear of the car is now more compact, thanks to the repositioning and reduction in size of the fuel tank (permitted in part by a more efficient engine which delivers the same range as before) and to the new transaxle layout allowed by the rear multi-link suspension and F1 dual-clutch transmission with integrated electronic differential. Rather than a traditional separate boot, the F12berlinetta features a generous tail-gate incorporating the rear screen which contributes both to the compactness of the design, and the generous luggage space and its accessibility, while ensuring maximum structural rigidity. The solution also ensures that more of the car's mass sits inside the shorter wheelbase to the benefit of handling dynamics. The end result is a car that's lighter by 70 kg with a centre of gravity that's 25 mm lower. It's also shorter (-47mm), lower (-63 mm) and narrower (-20 mm) compared to the previous V12 coupé. The rear overhang has been greatly reduced (-82 mm) while the front one has been estende (+65 mm) to accommodate the cooling systems required for the powerful V12 engine. Weight distribution is ideal - 54% at the rear - and is unmatched by competitors within the segment.

Chassis and Bodyshell
The Ferrari F12berlinetta's spaceframe chassis and bodyshell are completely new and use different types of materials and technologies, many of which originated in the aeronautical industry. No fewer than 12 different types of alloy have been used, including two new structural alloys. This has helped keep the car's weight down (50 kg has been saved on the body-in-white alone which equates to a saving of 90 kg if the previous chassis were re-engineered to meet crash legislation) and maximise the efficiency of its performance (torsional rigidity has been increased by 20 per cent). Crash resistance (lateral pole impact and roof roll-over) is already in line with future legislative requirements and particular attention was taken during the design phase to improving production quality, and minimising repair times and thus costs for the client.

The Aerodynamics
The Ferrari F12berlinetta's aerodynamics were developed hand-in-hand with its styling, using CFD (computational fluid dynamic) simulations along with more than 250 hours of testing in the Wind Tunnel. Aside from external air flows, research focused on internal ones with particolar attention given to thermal factors (including the radiators, heat exchangers and brakes). Apart from boosting the car's fluid dynamic efficiency, this research also led to a reduction in volumes through the optimised packaging of the car's mechanical components. The result is that it is the most overall aerodynamically efficient Ferrari ever, a fact attested to by a figure of 1.12 (double that of the 599 GTB Fiorano). Downforce has been boosted by 76 per cent (123 kg at 200 km/h) while drag has been significantly reduced (the Cd is just 0.299).

The Ferrari F12berlinetta's aerodynamic efficiency brass is mostly generated by three elements: the Aero Bridge, the Blown Spoiler, the aerodynamic underbody. The Aero Bridge is an innovative solution that uses the bonnet to create downforce for the first time. It does so by availing of an aerodynamic channel on each side. These pass below a bridge in the area between the front wheelarch and the bottom of the A-pillar and deflect the airflow into scoops in the flanks where it interacts with the wake from the wheel wells to decrease drag. The Blown Spoiler uses the air flows near the rear of the car to modify, via special intakes, the pressure field in the wheel well, boosting overall efficiency. Lastly, the car's flat underbody has been greatly evolved, not least thanks to the fact that the front splitter which is now separate to the bumper. 

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Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition, 2014

 

 

 Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition, 2014

With the Charger, Dodge delivers the world's only four-door muscle car, and the 2014 Charger 100th Anniversary Edition celebrates the brand's centennial with uniquely designed appointments to complement the sedan's world-class power, handling, technology and iconic style.

For a bold look, the 2014 Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Editions are available in Pitch Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Ivory Tri-Coat, Phantom Black Tri-Coat, Header Orange, and for this special occasion, all-new and exclusive High Octane Red Pearl Coat paint. With any of the colors, all-new 20 x 8-inch polished five-spoke aluminum wheels with Granite Crystal pockets and a matching Granite Crystal Dodge split-crosshair grille provide a striking look to the classic Coke-bottle shape. Stylistic appointments to commemorate the brand's century include "Dodge Est. 1914" bar-style front-fender badges and special Dodge "100" logo on the center caps. Additional exterior appointments include a body-color rear spoiler and on models with the legendary HEMI and a red "R/T" heritage grille badge.

The exclusive interior appointments are designed to make the 2014 Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition stand out. Dodge designers were inspired by the rich history of Dodge and sought to outfit the interior with premium attributes that reflect the patina and machinist legacy of John and Horace Dodge. All-new Molten Red or Foundry Black Nappa leather with a custom cloud overprint wraps the sport seats, center console armrest and door armrests. A unique three-spoke flat-bottom performance steering wheel features die-cast paddle shifters for added driver control. For an industrial appearance, leather-wrapped surfaces are sewn together with brass-colored accent stitching. Dark Brushed Graphite center console bezels and Liquid Graphite steering-wheel accents provide a premium look. Interior appointments designed to commemorate the brand's centenary include die-cast "Dodge Est. 1914" circular badges on front seatbacks and an embroidered anniversary logo on premium floor mats. All-new instrument panel cluster graphics feature unique black-face gauges with white indication and stand-out red "100" mph indication for this special occasion. And to play up that this is no ordinary Charger, the Electronic Vehicle Information Center and Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen feature a unique startup image, evoking the industrious nature of Detroit.

Paired with the award-winning Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen is Beats by Dr. Dre audio technology, standard on 2014 Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition models. This segment-exclusive sound experience includes 10-speakers and a 12-channel 552 watt amplifier that integrates Beats proprietary equalizer algorithm, all to create the high-definition sound quality required in professional recording studios.

The Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition based on the 2014 Dodge Charger SXT Plus features the award-winning 300 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with state-of-the-art eight-speed transmission and active intake manifold and sport mode, delivering best-in-class rear-wheel-drive fuel economy, up to 31 mpg, and a 0-60 mph time in the low 6-second range. For customers who demand even more power, the Dodge Charger 100th Anniversary Edition based on the 2014 Dodge Charger R/T Plus adds the more powerful 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology and up to 25 mpg on the highway. All 100th Anniversary Editions include sport mode calibration, performance-tuned suspension and steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters for added driver control.

Completing this special model are two unique key fobs, which include a 100th Anniversary Edition jeweled logo on the back side, a customized owner's kit and a special commemorative book celebrating the 100 years of Dodge heritage.

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Fiat 500L US-Version, 2014

 

 

 Fiat 500L US-Version, 2014

Efficiency and driving enjoyment that has made the Fiat 500 an icon for more than 55 years, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L expands the Cinquecento's appeal by offering more than 42 percent more interior space with spacious seating for five, engaging driving dynamics, a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with a best-in-class 160 horsepower and two six-speed transmission offerings all wrapped in contemporary Italian design.
Since the modern Fiat 500's global launch in 2007, more than 1 million of these efficient and city-friendly vehicles have been sold in 110 countries worldwide. And now with the all-new Fiat 500L, the Cinquecento has grown up to accommodate even more of life's greatest experiences and emotions all together: children, friends, journeys, music and community.

The Fiat 500L delivers a new approach to the way a car expresses styling individuality, the way it communicates with the outside world and opens its doors to a new on-board experience. The letter 'L' sums up the six dimensions of the Fiat 500L: "Leveraging," the FIAT brand's approach to its iconic Cinquecento design DNA; "Large," meant as functionality and space via its new "small-wide" vehicle architecture; "Loft," a trendsetting environment where one can live life to the fullest behind segment-exclusive panoramic views and the segment's largest dual-pane sunroof (20.7 sq.ft. (1.92 m2) dual-pane glass system); "Lifestyle," four unique models including the all-new Fiat 500L Trekking that perfectly blends rugged styling and versatility for a Cinquecento that complements customers with a highly active lifestyle; and "Light," when 'lightness' means human- and eco-friendly technology.

Paired with its tight European handling and quick steering, the sixth dimension, "Liters" defines the fuel-efficient MultiAir Turbo engine in the all-new Fiat 500L, providing the highest output-per-liter and best-in-class standard horsepower (160 hp) and torque (184 lb.-ft.) in the segment. For even more driver precision and control, the Fiat 500L features a six-speed manual transmission, or segment-exclusive six-speed dual dry clutch transmission (DDCT).

All-new Fiat 500L Trekking: the adventurous side of the 500L
The premiere of the 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking expands the appeal and practicality of the Fiat 500L with distinct, rugged looks; an athletic two-tone interior environment; unique front and rear fascia designs, flared wheel arches and larger 17-inch wheels to support its adventurous personality.

Making the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking distinct is the addition of aggressively styled front and rear fascias with Nero (black) accents for a bolder look. Unique Nero wheel arch and body-side sill moldings give the Fiat 500L Trekking a more adventurous look, while larger 17 x 7-inch aluminum wheels hint at the urban-utility vehicle's handling capabilities.

A unique two-tone Nero/Marrone (black/brown) interior environment continues the Fiat 500L Trekking's rugged-athletic theme. At the center of it all, an all-new Uconnect 5.0 system features a 5-inch intelligently and intuitively designed touchscreen interface, handsfree calling and Bluetooth-streaming audio, as well as voice-command control of the radio and a media hub for seamless integration of portable devices. For even more capability, the Fiat 500L Trekking can be had with the premium Uconnect 6.5 system with its larger 6.5-inch touchscreen radio, with dealer-activated navigation with intuitive map graphics and a premium media hub with SD card reader.

The all-new 2014 Fiat 500L and all-new Fiat 500L Trekking models are produced at FIAT Automobiles' manufacturing plant in Kragujevac, Serbia, and will arrive to FIAT Studios in North America in mid-2013.

Design
With its simplistic, purposeful and distinct Italian design, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L embodies the brand's "Simply More" philosophy by reformulating its history of small-car ingenuity to meet the needs of growing families and those with active lifestyles through modern Cinquecento (500) style in unprecedented forms.

"Like the Fiat 500, the all-new Fiat 500L's strength and design personality traits are strong attributes to the iconicity of the Cinquecento family," said Roberto Giolito, Head of FIAT Brand Design. "With its versatility through design innovation, our new five-passenger Cinquecento further develops the brand's identification while paying homage to clever city-friendly vehicles in FIAT's history."
 

Developed on FIAT's new "small-wide" architecture, the all-new Fiat 500L includes some of the most radical and profoundly innovative design elaborations through a traceable sequence of previous models. The Fiat 500L pays homage to past FIAT models and styling features, including archetypical design features that inspired the historic 1956 Fiat 600 Multipla's clever city-friendly versatility. In addition, styling roots from previous models were included in the Fiat 500L project and hark back to the 1957 Fiat 500, 1972 Fiat 127, 1980 Fiat Panda, 1983 Fiat Uno, 1998 Fiat Multipla and the modern Fiat 500 in 2007.

Larger: iconic Cinquecento cues, now with five doors
With its recognizable Cinquecento exterior design features, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L provides even more space, utility and comfort, while offering a natural and coherent product extension in FIAT Studios.

With recognizable Fiat 500 physiognomy — its signature "whiskers and logo" face — plus an additional 6.1 inches (15.5 cm) in width, the all-new Fiat 500L has even more presence while exuding the FIAT family resemblance in stylistic harmony. Larger bi-halogen projector headlamps and lower park lamps tie in the iconic look, while the vehicle's front fascia, body-color fascia insert and cooling duct continue the FIAT brand's facial feature resemblance. Providing fresh air for the 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine's intercooler, the Fiat 500L's front fascia grille features a honeycomb lower grille texture with available road-brightening fog lamps.

Because Fiat 500 models have always focused on maximizing the scenic views each journey provides, the all-new Fiat 500L goes one step further to deliver panoramic views from within. Illustrating purposeful Italian design, the Fiat 500L features segment-exclusive glass A- and D-pillars for an interior environment nearly encapsulated by 360 degree views. For a sporty appearance, the belt- and window-molding surrounds are trimmed in Nero (black). In addition to a monotone look, the new five-passenger Cinquecento offers even more style, with its "floating" roof painted in Nero or Bianco (white). The Fiat 500L also offers the segment's largest sunroof, providing first and second-row passengers with cityscape views through a 20.7 sq.ft. (1.92 m2) dual-pane glass system.

The 2014 Fiat 500L's silhouette is 26.9 inches (68.3 cm) longer yet features the familiar forward-sloping A-line and adds a cab-forward approach for improved visibility and an even more dynamic look. Similar to the historic and modern Cinquecento, the Fiat 500L's body-side lateral section features clean surfaces, flared wheel arches and chromed door handles. For added style and protection, body-side door moldings are painted in body color and are available with chrome accents. Filling the wheel wells are seven unique wheel designs ranging from 16 inches to a sporty 17 inches with the 500 logo on the center caps. For familiar Cinquecento character, the chromed-accented headlamps with "500" logo and taillamps are visible from the side profile, thanks to the way the Fiat 500L's rounded sides link up to the front and rear.

Maintaining its city-friendly proportions, the all-new Fiat 500L's rear fascia and bumper are well-integrated into the design of the five-door for shorter overhangs and a tidy look. Providing easier cargo loading, the Fiat 500L's liftgate design features one of the segment's lowest cargo-lift heights (26.2 inches (66.5 cm) from ground). For simplistic design character, the lower-liftgate area is recessed to accommodate a license plate, while the adjacent fascia integrates left and right side reflectors. Finishing off the rear are square-in-circular taillamps and a prominent FIAT liftgate badge with "500L" logo beneath.

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Citroen C-XR Concept, 2014

 

 Citroen C-XR Concept, 2014

Strong and Elegant Design
The Citroen C-XR Concept features instantly recognisable compact styling, with an assertive SUV look combining elegance and robustness. The elegant air is created through harmonious proportions and meticulous style lines, while the concept car's robust character is underscored by its width and by functional and aesthetic attributes that forge its SUV identity.

The design of the Citroen C-XR Concept stands out with:

• A wide chrome-finished grille linking the chevrons to the headlamps to emphasise its temperament,
• LED daytime running lights enhancing the front light signature for even stronger presence,
• Front optics featuring a double module and indicators to underscore the car's high-tech approach,
• A C-shaped side signature providing a visual link between the roof bars and chrome-finished waistline, highlighting the roominess inside,
• 3D-effect rear lights combined with a chrome-finished dual tailpipe lending extra vitality to the generous rear forms.

The concept car's protective and robust SUV nature is underscored by specific design attributes:

• Raised ground clearance and large, 17-inch wheels shod with All Seasons tyres to take on whatever the road has to offer with optimum comfort and safety,
• Front and rear fairing and wheel arch embellishers blending style and body protection,
• Red side décor and wing-mirror housings underlining the car's dynamic qualities and outdoor spirit.

The Citroen C-XR Concept also possesses elegant body styling characterised by:

• An ideal length-to-height ratio (1.79 m x 1.56 m) for perfectly balanced proportions,
• Body length limited to 4.26 m for more agile manoeuvring,
• The longest wheelbase in the category, at 2.65 m providing exceptional roominess, particularly in the back seats.

The Citroen C-XR Concept features cutting-edge technologies and special design approaches to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions:

• The powertrain combines a THP 160 petrol engine equipped with the Stop&Start system and a latest-generation automatic gearbox, boosting driving pleasure and comfort while reducing fuel consumption,
• The weight reduction that was a key focus in the design of the concept car, reflected in top-quality road manners for an SUV and a drastic cut in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

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