Audi A3 Sedan, 2014

 

 

 Audi A3 Sedan, 2014

With the launch of the A3 Sedan in spring 2013, Audi is entering the world's largest market segment, the class of compact sedans. The dynamic four-door car offers all of the strengths of the A3 model series - with low weight thanks to lightweight design, powerful and highly efficient engines and numerous high-end solutions for infotainment as well as driver assistance systems. The top model of the series is the S3 Sedan with 221 kW (300 hp).

The Exterior Design
The Audi A3 Sedan has a sporty stance on the road, and it is precise and highly expressive in every detail. Its design is a cross between the classic three-box concept and the coupé philosophy. The "tornado line" design element forms a distinct light-refracting edge that runs over the entire side. The overhangs are short. The four-door car has a 2.64 meter (8.66 ft) long wheelbase and an overall length of 4.46 meters (14.63 ft).

Above the side sills, the dynamic line rises more sharply than on the other two A3 models. The side surfaces are more intensively curved, and the wheel arches are slightly more flared. With a width of 1.80 meters (5.91 ft), the A3 Sedan is eleven mm (0.43 in) wider than the A3 Sportback; its height (1.42 meters [4.66 ft]) is still nine mm (0.35 in) lower than that of the Sportback.

The four-door car also expresses independent lines in the contour of its hood, in the bumpers, air intakes and its implementation of the singleframe grille. At the rear, the spoiler is integrated in the trunk lid, and the lights emphasize the car's horizontal lines with their broad and low cuts. LED technology is available as an option. Audi will also be offering full-LED headlights right at market launch - their innovative technology and distinctive appearance underscore the exceptional positioning of the Audi A3 Sedan.

The Body
With a 1.4 TFSI engine, the sedan has a curb weight of just 1,250 kg (2,755.78 lb). Audi uses many hot-shaped steel parts in the passenger compartment for low weight and maximum strength, while the engine hood is made of aluminum. The body is very rigid, crash-safe and quiet.

The strict dictate of lightweight design carries over into the interior and the engines as well. The four-cylinder engine weighs just over 100 kg (220.46 lb).

The Powertrain
When the Audi A3 Sedan launches in Germany and Europe, the engine line-up will consist of three four-cylinder engines. Completely redesigned, the engines bring together efficiency technologies from Audi - direct fuel injection, turbocharging, innovative thermal management and the start-stop-system. The line-up of engines and transmissions will grow further, and will include two new basic engines.

The 2.0 TDI produces 110 kW (150 hp) and develops 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the Audi A3 Sedan from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.7 seconds and takes it to a top speed of 220 km/h (136.70 mph). Its combined fuel consumption is 4.1 liters per 100 km (57.37 US mpg) - for a CO2 equivalent of 108 grams per km (172.20 g/mile).

Key performance parameters of the 1.4 TFSI are 103 kW (140 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft). At low engine load, the COD (cylinder on demand) system deactivates two cylinders. The 1.4-liter engine gives the car a combined fuel consumption of just 4.7 liters fuel per 100 km (50.05 US mpg); its CO2 emissions are 109 grams per km (175.42 g/mile). It takes just 8.4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph), and the car's top speed with this engine is 213 km/h (132.35 mph).

The 1.8 TFSI produces 132 kW (180 hp) and 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque. It utilizes an extensive package of high-end technologies, including dual injection into the combustion chambers and the induction manifold. It enables sporty performance, taking 7.3 seconds for the standard sprint to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and reaching a top speed of 235 km/h (146.02 mph). Its combined fuel consumption is 5.6 liters per 100 km (42.00 US mpg), equivalent to 129 grams CO2 per km (207.61 g/mile).

Depending on the engine, either a manual six-speed transmission or the S tronic is used. The dual-clutch transmission shifts the gears without any noticeable break in propulsive power. It is controlled by either the selector lever or paddles on the steering wheel.

The D shifting map is laid out for maximum fuel efficiency, while the rev levels are somewhat higher in the sporty S mode. In cooperation with the Audi drive select vehicle dynamics system, the S tronic offers a free-wheeling function in its efficiency mode which further reduces fuel consumption.

Chassis
The pole position that the Audi A3 Sedan has enjoyed in its segment is largely due to its chassis engineering. Providing the foundation here is a finely balanced axle load distribution (60 percent front and 40 percent rear, varies somewhat for different engines). All engines are tilted twelve degrees towards the rear, while the front wheel suspensions are placed far forward.

The front suspension is a MacPherson design with A-arms and aluminum pivot bearings. It is joined to an aluminum subframe. The electromechanically assisted steering system operates sensitively and efficiently together with various assistance systems. In the four-link rear suspension, which utilizes a steel crossmember, the springs and shock absorbers are mounted separately. The sport suspensions for the Ambition line and S line lower the body by up to 25 mm (0.98 in).

The Audi A3 Sedan has 16- to 18-inch-wheels; quattro GmbH can also deliver wheels up to 19 inches in diameter. The front brake discs are internally ventilated.

Electronic stabilization control or ESC also includes an electronic differential lock. In fast driving through curves, it brakes the inside front wheel very slightly to minimize understeering and improve traction.

The Interior
The interior of the Audi A3 Sedan is characterized by impressive attention to detail. The lines and surfaces are cleanly designed, and a long arc spans the width of the windshield. The instrument panel with its curved front is slender, and the center console is slightly turned towards the driver. The optional color display of the driver information system (DIS) shows images in highly detailed 3D graphics.

Starting with the MMI Radio system, the MMI operating system has an electrically extending screen. Its terminal is housed in the console of the center tunnel. The electromechanical parking brake is activated by a pushbutton. The steering wheel has either three or four spokes, depending on the version. The customer can also order the steering wheel with a flat bottom, multifunction keys and shift paddles. Audi can also install sport seats in the front as an option. They are standard in the Ambition line, where S sport seats with integrated head restraints are available as an option.

The interior colors - black, titan gray, pashmina beige and chestnut brown - are based on the specific equipment line. The two-tone Audi design selection lasso brown creates an exclusive color world. The S line sport package, which can be ordered for the A3 Sedan Ambition, immerses the interior space entirely in black. Available upholstery materials include fabric covers, a mix of fabric and artificial leather, Milano leather and a combination of Pearl nappa leather and Alcantara.

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Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430, 2015

 

 

 Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430, 2015

Pure, unadulterated fun is what lies at the heart of the new Aston Martin V8 Vantage N430. Honed on the track to excel on the road, N430 - available in Coupe or Roadster form - boasts a power hike to 436 PS at 7,300 rpm that brings its output up to that of the spirited V8 Vantage S.

Ian Minards, Director of Product Development at Aston Martin, said of the new car: "N430 is all about bringing track-honed excitement to the road in an accessible, emotionally engaging, and authentically 'analogue' way. The dynamic exhilaration of Vantage is the perfect complement to the eye-catching looks of the N430."

Ally that inherent dynamic capability to lightweight and sporting-biased features as standard such as carbon fibre and Kevlar seats and ten-spoke forged alloy wheels in a new graphite painted finish - together yielding a weight saving of 20 kg - and it's clear that the GT4-inspired N430 has been created to deliver exceptional performance with a club sport ethos.

No surprise, then, that the new V8 Vantage N430 is capable of 190 mph, with a 0-60 mph time that drops to 4.6 seconds.
That power feeds the rear wheels through a sporty six-speed manual gearbox; with the option of a close-ratio seven-speed Sportshift™II automated manual transmission with short final-drive ratio for those demanding the most driver-focused yet involving set-up.

N430's front mid-mounted, 4.7-litre, all-alloy, quad overhead cam, dry-sumped V8 engine is complemented by a rousing sports exhaust, aerodynamics honed through numerous wins in GT racing and a competition-derived braking system.

The compact proportions and inherent balance of the Vantage design are supported by a carefully calibrated sports suspension tune and quick-ratio steering rack that rewards the true enthusiast driver on road, and on track.

Countless hours testing at circuits around the globe, including the Nürburgring's Nordschleife which is home to a dedicated Aston Martin Test Centre, have delivered a machine truly worthy to join Aston Martin's family of 'N' cars.

Styled to evoke thoughts of the track, N430 celebrates Aston Martin's sporting heritage and motorsport success.
A purposeful package of dark-themed exterior details - graphite painted forged alloy wheels alongside black front grille, headlamp bezels, exterior meshes, side window surrounds and textured tailpipe finishers and clear rear lamps with black surrounds convey the appropriate air of menace and excitement.

This neatly offsets the eye-catching liveries with optional club sports graphics packs - inspired in part by the exceptional CC100 Speedster concept and nodding to Aston Martin's most famous motorsport triumph, the DBR1 - that leave no doubt to the car's identity or character.

The inside, as out, N430's sporting associations are unmistakable with new interior features and materials such as machined carbon sill plaques, N430 seat logos, black magnesium paddle-shifts or carbon fibre gearshift surround; contemporary driver instrument panel; black anodised rotaries; leather steering wheel with contrasting on-centre stitch feature (or Alcantara with matching stitch); seat and door inserts in technical PlissèAlcantara - indented leather on Roadster models - and unique seat trim patterns.

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Alfa Romeo MiTo, 2014

 

 

 Alfa Romeo MiTo, 2014

The new Alfa Romeo MiTo Model Year 2014 revamps its technological image while maintaining its consolidated image as a sporty compact capable of winning over motorists who demand care for details, Italian style and technical excellence for total safety driving style.

The 2014 range introduces some important new style features, starting from the new redesigned grille completed by a chrome-plated frame to create a family feeling with the Giulietta, making the front of the car look more streamlined. Other new features are the Anthracite Grey body colour and the burnished finish of the front light clusters that characterise all trim levels.

The interiors are even more sophisticated, now with four new upholstery combinations to choose from: two new Evoluzione fabrics (Black/Titanium or Black/Red) for Distinctive, the QV Sportiva pack with a new sporty seat and white inserts (available for Distinctive only) and the new Heritage Black fabric with electrically welded Alfa Romeo badge for the Quadrifoglio Verde.

Innovations also in the dashboard portfolio: Street with specific black version for Impression, Progression and QV Sportiva; and Evoluzione - two dashboard designs, both shaded (grey-black or black-red) for Distinctive.

New 0.9 Turbo Twin Air 105 HP
The engine is the heart and at the same time the true strength of every Alfa Romeo model. And the Alfa Romeo MiTo Model Year 2014 is no exception: under its sporty line and strong personality, the new car offers an extensive range of superb engines, packed with the latest technology and bursting with performance, which are also environmentally-friendly. Not to mention the fact that Alfa Romeo power units are distinguished by their unmistakable Alfa Romeo sound that emphasises the unique nature of the car while complying fully with type approval constraints and environmental aspects.

One of the most important innovations of the MiTo MY 2014 is the new 105 HP 0.9 TwinAir distinguished by its dazzling personality and low fuel consumption. Combined with a six-speed manual gearbox and with the DNA selector in Dynamic position, the new engine delivers 105 HP (72 kW) at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 145 Nm at 2000 rpm (ratings are 105 HP@5750 rpm and 120 Nm@1750 rpm, respectively, in Natural mode).

Furthermore, the 105 HP Twin Air is the best expression of eco-friendliness, as confirmed by its consumption and CO2 emissions, which are among the lowest in its class: 4.2 litres/100 km and 99 g/km on the type-approval combined cycle, respectively. Remarkably, emissions are so low that comply with the European standards of 2020 already today. In other words, the 105 HP TwinAir Turbo is comfortable, cost-effective, eco-friendly and never boring when it comes to performance: it clocks a top speed of 184 km/h and goes from 0 to 100 km/h in only 11.4 seconds, in addition to having a remarkable specific power of 120 HP/litre, which ranks it among the sportiest of engines.

The new Twin Air family engine combines the concept of downsizing (displacement and weight reduction) with sophisticated technologies, like supercharging with high-efficiency turbocharger, integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head and the totally new Multi Air intake valve control system. With its unique intake cam profile, the Multi Air second generation further optimises thermodynamic efficiency of the engine by modulating the amount of exhaust gas recirculated in the combustion chamber (internal EGR).

The new 105 HP 0.9 Twin Air completes the range engines that consists of 2 turbo diesel engines - 85 HP 1.3 JTDM and 120 HP 1.6 JTDM (both updated in E5+) - and 5 petrol engines: 70 HP 1.4, 78 HP 1.4, 135 HP 1.4 Multi Air Turbo Petrol (with manual gearbox or Alfa TCT automatic transmission) and the 170 HP 1.4 Multi Air Turbo Petrol. The engine range also includes the 120 HP 1.4 LPG Turbo, a superb concentration of power and technology, which combines top-notch performance, environmental-friendliness and low running costs. New drivers can choose the 70 HP 1.4 and the 78 HP 1.4 petrol engines or the 85 HP 1.3 Jtdm diesel version.

The Infotainment
The multimedia device is made by Continental and based on Uconnect, the next-generation infotainment platform concept, is debuting on 2014 Alfa Romeo MiTo to reconfirm the technology ambassador spirit that characterised the car's first steps.

Available with or without integrated navigation system developed with Tom Tom, the device features a 5" colour touchscreen for accessing many functions, the radio and the multimedia devices (media player, iPod, iPhone, smartphone) connectable via USB port and the Aux-in connector.

The system also includes an advanced Bluetooth interface to access extra functions, such as phone call management or reading received SMS text messages via text-to-speech technology, innovative Audio Streaming system that reproduces music files and web radio stations directly from a smartphone in streaming via Bluetooth on the U Connect device.

By choosing the version with integrated navigation you have the opportunity to enjoy additional new features: in addition to the built-in navigation developed in collaboration with Tom Tom (with voice recognition), the system will be equipped with GPS system, IQ Routes (which calculates the best route based on the real average speeds measured on the roads) and Info traffic system with real time updates.

Safety
The Alfa Romeo MiTo was designed to obtain the maximum score in passive and active safety tests. In short, total protection making it one of the safest cars in the field of motoring, as demonstrated by the prestigious five Euro NCAP stars.

The new car offers, as standard on the entire range, the most sophisticated electronic devices for maximum dynamic vehicle control (from braking to traction) implemented to increase dynamic limits even further, non-intrusive to the driver, but affording all-round safety.

In addition to a braking system affording excellent performance levels, the Alfa Romeo MiTo Model Year 2014 is equipped with the ABS anti-lock braking system, one of the most sophisticated currently available, complete with electronic brake force distribution (EBD). Other functions include the electronic stability (ESC) and traction (ASR) control systems, the hydraulic brake assistance for emergency braking system (HBA), assisted hill start system (HILL HOLDER), the system that controls engine braking when the accelerator pedal is released (MSR) and the Cornering Brake Control (CBC) system. The extensive range is completed by the Alfa Q2 - the electronic system reproducing the action of a self-locking differential - and Alfa Active Steering, the 'active electronic steering' that prompts the driver to correct over steering on poor-grip surfaces through a light impulse on the steering wheel.

The Alfa Romeo MiTo MY 2014 is one of the safest cars in its segment and also in the field of motoring as a whole. The new model represents the state-of-the-art as far as passive safety is concerned. Total protection, in short, as evidenced by seven airbags as standard (two of which Multistage), three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, an anti-whiplash device built into the backrest on the front seats, 5 warning lights displayed on a small screen to inform the driver whether the seat belts of all the passengers are securely fastened, and LED rear lights to improve the visibility of the car. Not to mention the contribution to occupant protection made by the body, the bonnet, the doors and the dashboard crossmember in addition to the seats and steering column, that have been designed with a view to their behaviour in the event of an accident.

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Acura RDX, 2013

 

 Acura RDX, 2013

The 2013 Acura RDX, the second generation of Acura's 5 passenger crossover SUV, up the ante with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and fuel efficiency via a new engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system.

The 2013 RDX rides on a 4-wheel independent suspension with a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension design. A longer wheelbase, wider track and lower center of gravity provide the foundation for the new RDX's improved handling and ride quality. New chassis technology for 2013 includes Acura-exclusive Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new Motion Adaptive Electric Power Steering system that replaces the previous hydraulic steering. The 2013 RDX  available in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants.

Standard features for 2013 Acura RDX include bold new 5-spoke 18-inch wheels and improved 4-wheel disc brakes that include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Not only do the brakes provide better performance, but they also incorporate improvements to lessen brake drag for reduced rolling resistance and improved fuel economy.

Replacing the turbocharged 2.3-liter inline 4-cylinder used with the previous RDX, the 2013 RDX now have as standard equipment a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 273 horsepower—33 more than the outgoing model. For even higher performance and improved fuel economy, the Acura RDX makes use of an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter weight all-wheel-drive system that provides outstanding performance and safety with increased efficiency to achieve higher fuel economy.

With an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy rating of 20/28 mpg, front-wheel-drive versions of the 2013 Acura RDX are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered V6 luxury SUV in the class. All-wheel-drive models deliver an EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy of 19/27 mpg.

The RDX boasts a sleek and more aerodynamic body, evolving Acura RDX from a sporty, compact SUV to a more formal SUV appearance with a longer, sculpted hood and styling that is more elegant and sophisticated to match the Acura philosophy of timeless, beautiful design.

Inside the 2013 RDX, new sweeping shapes, matte surface trim, and generous use of leather combine to give the RDX interior an upscale look and luxury feel that Acura customers have come to expect. Abundant use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control team to provide an exceptionally quiet cabin. Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and an available power rear tailgate make the Acura RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.

Passenger safety has always been a cornerstone of every Acura model. In addition to using Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, the 2013 Acura RDX employs new design features and myriad high strength materials aimed specifically at occupant protection. Although yet to be tested, Acura anticipates that the RDX will achieve top crash safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2013 RDX produced (using U.S. and globally sourced parts) exclusively by the company's East Liberty, Ohio plant—home to one of four of the top five-rated assembly lines in North America in the J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The first generation Acura RDX is produced at the Marysville, Ohio auto plant.

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Zenvo ST1, 2010

 

 

 Zenvo ST1, 2010

The Zenvo ST1 is designed to express the excessive power and performance of the car.
The design brief from the Zenvo creators to the designers at hermann & brandt design consultancy was to design a supercar that looked like no other supercar. The design had to be aggressive mixing supercar styling with race car elements.

The design of the Zenvo ST1 is made from free flowing accelerating lines creating the shape of the wheel arches, the roof line, side line and the lower side air intake. The sharp lines are connected by muscular organic surfacing creating dramatic reflections. Contrasting the general surfacing the design features a race car inspired lower carbon splitter.

The front of the Zenvo ST1 is designed around the hexagonal trademark Zenvo grille flanked by the large front air intakes used for brakes and engine cooling. The intakes are raked back to minimize drag and at the same time making the side impression of the car more compact.

The theme of the front is repeated in the rear which is designed around the big diffuser necessary for high speed stability. As on the front the center volume is flanked by large air exits extracting hot engine air as well as housing the exhaust and rear lights.

The rear spoiler mandatory for a car capable of extreme high speeds is partly integrated in the rear wing. It has a unique aerodynamic design following the raked shape of the rear end.

Specifications

•     Max. power: 1104 hp (810 kW) at 6900 rpm
•     Max. torque: 1430Nm at 4500 rpm
•     Top speed: 375 km/h (electronically controlled)
•     Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 3.0 s

    Dimension

•         Overall length: 4665 mm
•         Overall width, without mirrors: 2041 mm
•         Overall height: 1198 mm
•         Wheelbase: 3055 mm
•         Weight: 1376 kg
•         Headroom front: 1002 mm
•         Legroom front: 1104 mm
•         Shoulderroom front: 1398 mm
•         Cargo volume: 130 l
•         Fuel tank volume: 69 l

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Wiesmann Spyder Concept, 2011

 Wiesmann Spyder Concept, 2011

The Wiesmann showcased the design study of a two-seater, extremely purist, convertible sports car at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Powerful, ultra-light and purist, the Wiesmann Spyder Concept is the essence of Wiesmann's philosophy. With a kerb weight of less than 1000 kg, it accelerates from 0-100 km/h less than 4 s and makes a top speed of approx. 290 km/h. Basis for this excellent performance is a 420-hp V8 high speed motor which is powered by a 4 liters of engine capacity. The two-seater has no doors or windscreen and is the most extreme Wiesmann ever built.

The Wiesmann Spyder design study is based on the Wiesmann brothers' early designs, though it also incorporates their many years of experience in sports car construction. It demonstrates the sports car manufacturer's receptiveness to trends because many Wiesmann fans have approached the company founders in recent years with requests for an extremely purist model.

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Volvo Estate Concept, 2014

 

 

 

Volvo Estate Concept, 2014

Volvo Car Group uses the 2014 Geneva Motor Show to reveal the third in a series of concept cars - the Concept Estate - that continues the widely-admired exterior design language revealed in the first two concepts, but for the first time reveals how the interior of Volvo's forthcoming models will both look and function.

The Volvo Concept Estate's most striking interior design feature is its simplicity. The traditional selection of buttons and controls have been replaced by one large tablet-like touch screen control panel in the centre console, bringing the interior firmly into the 21st century.

In association with Volvo's specially designed software, the touch screen the main control panel for Volvo's new in-car user experience. It replaces all buttons and controls except for a few crucial functions such as volume, play/pause, hazard warning and window heaters. It also interacts seamlessly with the digital instrument cluster in front of the driver.

Volvo is the company that redefined the Estate car by combining functionality, sturdiness and practicality with performance. The V70 and XC70 are among the most respected Estates on the market and the new Concept Estate points to how the company could capitalise on this heritage in its forthcoming models.

Volvo has been on a winning streak with its concept cars. The Concept Coupé was named 'Car of the Show' by a leading German auto magazine at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, while the Concept XC Coupé received the prestigious 'Eyes ON Design' award at the 2014 Detroit Motor Show.

Global attention on Volvo's concept cars has been intensifying as they provide the first significant clues as to how the all-new and much-anticipated XC90 SUV and subsequent cars will look. The XC90 is due to be launched later in 2014.

Learning from history
The rear of Concept Estate echoes the design of the Volvo 1800 ES from the early 1970s.

The subtle inspiration from the 1800-models is also evident on several details inside the Concept Estate, such as the two-spoke steering wheel, the instrument panel and the dials.

Beautiful and different
Applying this approach to the iconic estate car - which is the essence of versatile Volvo functionality - creates a car that is both beautiful and different.

The generous dash to axle ratio, low bonnet, sleek silhouette and the glass roof all contribute to the impression of a dynamic, yet capable three-door sports wagon. The contrast between the deep, dark brown pear colour and the bright five-spoke, 21-inch wheels contributes to the modern, cool aura.

Just like the recent Concept Coupé and the Concept XC Coupé, the face of the Volvo Concept Estate is characterised by a new topography on the bonnet and the 'floating' grille, flanked by headlights featuring new T-shaped DRL light guides. The rear light signature is another distinctive element in Volvo Cars' new design direction.

Swedish inside and out
Extrovert and colourful trends within contemporary Swedish lifestyle and design have been powerful sources of inspiration for the design team. Occupants in all four seats are embraced by orange seat belts, and the exclusive, woven wool carpets from the Swedish designer Kasthall have the same deep accent colour.

The crystal gear leaver from Orrefors/Kosta Boda also has an orange glow, while the chequered black and white wool textile on the headliner and rear sides of the front seats adds playfulness to the 'room'.

The feel of a Scandinavian living room
Refined, handcrafted details, such as an instrument panel covered by thick, naturally tanned saddle leather from Tärnsjö, inlays made of waxed, naturally aged wood and machined copper details, also emphasise the exclusive Swedish atmosphere inside Concept Estate.

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Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Volkswagen Beetle Dune Concept, 2014

The Beetle is a phenomenon, regardless of where it shows up in the world. People are always happy to see this car. Whether in wintry Detroit, sunny San Francisco or venerable Boston - the streets are more colorful with the Beetle, and life is more carefree. The same happens in Europe, in pulsing Berlin and in rocking London, as well as in Asian metropolises such as exuberant Tokyo and the eternally exotic Hong Kong, and cities in the southern hemisphere such as Sydney and Cape Town. The Beetle. As a coupé and convertible. The greater the numbers of this design icon that populate the streets, the more intense is this phenomenon of likeability. Now Volkswagen is adding a new version: with the world premiere of the Volkswagen Beetle Dune. It is has been presented at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. A Beetle with a wide, cool and rugged offroad look; a car outside of the mainstream. The Beetle Dune.

Concept car with near-production design
The Volkswagen Beetle Dune is a concept car. At least for now. But everything about this car is feasible ? practically a production vehicle. The car points the way to next summer in the midst of a Michigan winter. And until the sun thaws this state again, the Dune will show how even the cold season of the year has its fascinating side: winter sports. That is why designers buckled a pair of skis to the back of this Beetle, whose body was raised 50 mm. Like the legendary Beetle of days past and the air-cooled sports car from Porsche. Dune - its name, its raised body, large 19-inch tires and all-terrain look all call out for this, just like the VW buggies conquered beaches and dunes in times past. And so, in the summer, skis for sandboarding are attached to the trunk lid - securely latched by clever mechanisms on the rear body and roof spoiler - surfing on dunes such as those at the Sand Master Park in Florence, Oregon. New sandboarding hot spots are emerging wherever there are dunes in the world. In the Beetle Dune, Volkswagen is revisiting an idea that was born in January 2000 with the New Beetle Dune presented in Los Angeles. While the concept car shown in California was more science fiction, especially in its interior and roof structure, in the Dune of 2014 Volkswagen is looking much more realistically towards a production vehicle.

The side

The Dune concept harbors the potential for a new production version of the sportiest Beetle ever. Painted in "Arizona" - a yellow-orange metallic. This warm color itself is sure to elevate the mood. Meanwhile, the two-part wheel well extensions are offset in black. They are rugged elements with a matt finish like those used on Cross models of Volkswagen. The difference here: integrated on top of the main matt parts are what are known as "blades" - elements that are just 1.5 mm thick, as thin as a razor. They appear to hover above the rather massive wheel housings, because the shiny and matt parts do not contact one another directly. The wheel housings - each with a semi-hexagonal cut-out - widen the body by a considerable 24 mm on each side for a total width of 1,856 mm (gain of 48 mm). The Beetle Dune is 4,290 mm long (gain of 12 mm) and 1,536 mm tall (gain of 50 mm).

In keeping with its larger body width, the car's track width was increased by 29 mm to 1,607 mm in front and by 29 mm to 1,573 mm at the rear. As a result, and also because of its low wheel pitch of 33 mm (instead of 44 mm), the 19-inch wheels equipped with 255/45 tires (diameter: 723 mm) fill out the wheel housings very well. Visually, they are reminiscent of the design of the 18-inch "Twister" Beetle wheels - with their five aluminum spokes, black painted interior spaces and a polished aluminum ring. The VW logo at the center of each wheel is embedded in a 3D module painted in the car's exterior color.

The wheel well extensions transition into brushed aluminum sill trim panels, in which a chrome-plated underbody protection panel is placed. The sills are painted in high-gloss black where they join to the body up high. Above the side sills are the side trim strips that are typical of the Beetle which are designed in a stylized look of the legendary Beetle running boards here. They also feature a high-gloss black finish. The distinctive Dune logo, meanwhile, is placed in the area in front of the rear wing. The door mirror housings are vapor-coated in aluminum. The foot of the mirror that is integrated in the window triangle of the A-pillar is black.

The front section
The designers came up with a new layout for many of the front end components. In this process, the iconic basic design and bi-xenon round headlights were preserved. New, however, is the design of the even more charismatic engine hood. The middle of the hood is now somewhat higher. Bordered by precise edges, the upper parts of the large hood's recessed lateral surfaces each have a prominent engine vent. The black vent screens have a honeycomb look with fins; there is a chrome strip integrated at the middle of each of these screens which runs longitudinally.

Like the hood, the front apron, which has also been redesigned, also makes an extremely dynamic impression. Its styling features a large air intake in the middle with a black honeycomb screen (a typical design feature of the Volkswagen Cross models). The A-shaped screen widens in a downward direction, and this highlights the dominant and sporty look of the front end. The screen has a chrome-plated surround that also serves as underbody protection.

To the left and right of the central air intake and aluminum underbody protection, there are two inserts that extend towards the middle in a trapezoidal shape; their frames are painted in high-gloss black like the angular surfaces of the wheel flares. These inserts contain a highly innovative lighting design. The LED fog lights are integrated here in a semi-circular pattern. From inside, the LED rings have a matt finish, resulting in a uniform light band. At the center of the LED rings, a stylized nozzle emphasizes the three-dimensional look of the overall fog lamp module. Above the rings are three slender cross ribs and a narrow chrome strip, which - although it is only 9 mm high - serves as a LED turn signal indicator. When the driver activates the turn signal, an illuminating band of LED light is emitted from the chrome trim.

The rear section
The multifunctional rear section of the VW Beetle Dune demonstrates impressively that it is even possible to reverse the design maxim "form follows function". Those living in the northern hemisphere who do not wish to spend the entire winter in the snowy slush of the big cities can simply set out for the nearest ski area in the new Volkswagen, whether - from an American perspective - one prefers sandboarding in Florence, Oregon or the ski slopes in Aspen, Colorado. The Beetle Dune with its 155 kW / 210 PS turbocharged direct injection gasoline engine (23 mpg City / 29 mpg Highway), together with a 6-speed DSG transmission, will handle the trip to either destination perfectly.

And indeed not just a trip to Florence on the West Coast or to Aspen in the middle of the country, but to any place skis need to be transported. The skis are simply mounted to the outside of the trunk lid. To do this, the outer left and right parts of the rear spoiler's black high-gloss component are swiveled out; the skis are then placed in the spoiler, then it is closed again by swiveling the black component back in place. At the top, the skis slide into a receptacle of the specially developed roof spoiler; there they are secured with a 20 mm wide belt. The roof spoiler itself - like the entire roof surface surrounding the transparent panoramic tilt/slide sunroof - is painted in high-gloss black. Viewed from the side, the roof spoiler has the appearance of a perfectly aerodynamic wing hovering in the wind. The love for detail is also reflected in the skis of the concept car: Like the add-on parts, they are painted in shiny black; meanwhile, the Dune signature and Volkswagen logo are offset in matt black. A silhouette of the Volkswagen Beetle Dune in its exterior color clearly identifies the car to which the skis belong. By the way, even with skis mounted to the car the trunk lid can be opened easily at any time.

The lower section of the bumper is styled in a sophisticated black; the surfaces around the license plate and the wrap-around extension of the upper wheel well are painted once again in high gloss black. Designed in an offsetting matt finish, on the other hand, is the lower termination around the chrome-plated underbody protection that is designed to function as a diffuser with the exhaust tailpipes integrated on the right and left.

The interior
The Dune team also customized the entire interior both visually and technically. Two aspects stand out in particular. First, there is the dashpad painted in "Arizona" car color which does not have the legendary Beetle box on the passenger's side this time - in this car it was replaced by the no less legendary grab handle of the original Beetle which consists of the rubberized material of the interior door handles and an integrated aluminum accent in car color. The Dune signature is embossed in aluminum - a haptic and visual highlight. Second, the entire infotainment system was implemented as a digital interface with a high-resolution 7.7-inch touchscreen. An AMOLED (Active Matrix Organic LED) display is used here which renders extremely fine details. A tribute to the New Beetle Dune of 2000 is the digital display of the car's pitch and roll, which was integrated in the main instrument back then.

A user interface software highlight that was implemented in the Beetle Dune of 2014 is the "Volkswagen Sideways" app - a program that proactively integrates "Points of Interest" (POI) in the navigation system. For example, the touchscreen not only displays whether there are restaurants nearby and which ones, but also whether your friends are there. Upon request, the navigation system can guide the driver and the Dune right to it. The Sideways app also integrates information such as the weather in the POI instructions - the driver would not be guided to an outdoor swimming pool in winter weather, for example. The instrument cluster is designed with classic analog instruments: tachometer (left), speedometer (middle) and fuel gauge (right). However, the scaling is not white as in the production car, rather it is in "Arizona" color. The same applies to the scaling of the auxiliary instruments above the center console with charge pressure indicator, chronometer and engine oil temperature.

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