Caterham Seven 160, 2014

 

 

 

 Caterham Seven 160, 2014

Caterham Cars has opened the UK order book for the Caterham Seven 160 - its new entry-level variant of the iconic sportscar, powered by a super-compact, turbocharged Suzuki engine.

Priced from £14,995 in component form, the car's live-axle rear suspension, compact engine and low weight embody the pioneering spirit of early Sevens and represent a new entry-point to the Seven range.

The Caterham Seven 160 - EU customers will get an altered version, called 165 - produces 80hp from its 660cc, three-cylinder, turbocharged engine, enabling it to accelerate to 60mph in a brisk 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 100mph.

With fleet-of-foot charm and handling finesse, rather than outright performance dictating the driving experience, the new car redefines the budget sportscar segment while introducing new levels of efficiency and value for money to the Caterham range.
The new rear axle, a throwback to early Sevens in terms of simplicity and purity of design, complements the Suzuki Motor Corporation engine and lower overall body weight, while delivering Caterham's acclaimed, intuitive handling experience and a balanced yet playful chassis.

To meet the desired performance criteria, the Caterham Group's engineering consultancy, Caterham Technology & Innovation (CTI), fine-tuned engine performance from its standard output of 64hp to 80hp, while boosting fuel economy and reducing vehicle emissions. The vehicle conforms to EU5, EU6 and JC08 emissions regulations.

The number five at the end of the EU spec car's moniker signifies that the vehicle complies with the EU5 emissions standards, allowing it to be sold across mainland Europe and beyond.
Production of the Caterham Seven 160 and 165 is expected to begin in January 2014, with first deliveries in the Spring.

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Cadillac Escalade, 2015

 

 

 

 Cadillac Escalade, 2015

Production of the 2015 Escalade begins in the spring of 2014 in Arlington, Texas. The product line will consist of the standard Escalade model, as well as the extended-length ESV edition, with offers a 14-inch-longer (355 mm) wheelbase and approximately 20 inches (508 mm) more in overall length, maximizing space for third-row passengers and 60 percent more cargo space behind the third-row seat than the Cadillac Escalade.

The Cadillac introduced the all-new 2015 Escalade, a sophisticated luxury SUV designed to establish new benchmarks for hand-tailored craftsmanship and technology.

The fourth-generation Cadillac Escalade is an entirely new design yet instantly recognizable. Much of the story of Cadillac's redesigned flagship SUV is on the interior, where new levels of luxury combine with the latest technology.

From its introduction, Cadillac Escalade quickly became the standard among luxury SUVs with a formula of bold design, powerful capability and luxurious accommodations for up to eight occupants. Three succeeding generations led luxury SUV customers to confer icon status on it. The 2015 Escalade takes design and technical elements from Cadillac's product expansion to elevate the brand's signature SUV.

Offered with 2WD and 4WD drivetrains, Escalade features a new 6.2L V-8 engine that is more powerful and more efficient than previous models. Cadillac's Magnetic Ride Control, the world's fastest-reacting suspension system, is now standard and delivers precisely controlled driving performance.

The exterior features crisp, new and more sophisticated surfaces, accented by dramatic light-emitting diode, or LED, lighting.

The new interior features cut-and-sewn and wrapped materials, with wood trim options chosen for elegance and authenticity. Seats were engineered to be more comfortable and sculpted in appearance. The new interior is dramatically quieter, too, thanks to a stronger new body structure, new and enhanced acoustic material, and Bose Active Noise Cancellation technology.

CUE, Cadillac's advanced system for connectivity and control, is standard featuring state-of-the-art voice recognition with touch controls common with the world's most popular tablets and mobile devices. A standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster can be reconfigured with four themes and an available head-up display projects information onto the windshield. An available Blu-Ray DVD rear entertainment system includes a nine-inch, roof-mounted screen on Escalade and two nine-inch screens on Escalade ESV.

The front seating area offers more than 1.5 inches (44 mm) more headroom and more than four inches (101 mm) of additional legroom compared to previous models while the second- and third-row seats fold flat for greater cargo versatility - and a segment-first hands-free liftgate includes programmable height settings.

Cadillac Escalade's new technologies include safety features to help protect occupants before, during and after a collision, such as Front and Rear Automatic Braking, which relies on short-range radar technology and ultrasonic sensors to help the driver avoid front and rear low-speed collisions via a progression of alerts that extend to complete braking, if necessary.

The segment's only Front Seat Center-Mounted air bag, 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.

A Driver Awareness package includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, and the patented Safety Alert Seat, which offers directional vibrations to alert the driver about potential crash threats. A Driver Assist package adds Full Speed Range Adaptive Cruise Control, Front and Rear Automatic Braking, Automatic Collision Preparation and Automatic Safety Belt Tightening.

Additionally, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert are standard on Luxury and Premium models.

Crafted interior
Craftsmanship defines the 2015 Escalade's passenger space, designed to be one of the industry's most authentic and luxurious cabins mixed with seamless technology integration for today's connected luxury customers.

Real wood combined with premium cut-and-sewn materials and sueded accents, along with ambient lighting, were designed to add elegance to the interior design. Tight tolerances of the instrument panel and door panels, precision controls and triple-sealed doors were engineered and designed to reinforce a feeling of quality.

The seats were designed to be more comfortable and sculpted in appearance with a reclining second row. The design incorporates dual-firmness foam that ensures long-trip comfort and helps retain appearance over time.

Heated and cooled seats are standard in front and second-row bucket seats have standard heat. The available second-row bench has heated outboard seats now reclines.

Intuitive technology
Technology is integral to the Cadillac Escalade's driving experience. New and enhanced features help make what already was one of the industry's most-connected vehicles more intuitive.

For the first time, Escalade will feature CUE standard. The eight-inch center screen uses capacitive touch technology and gesture recognition, enabling tapping and swiping common to smartphones and tablets. CUE uses proximity sensors to activate common options and controls as the user's hand approaches. An expanded "favorites" section offers quick access to phone contacts, navigation destinations - even digital music - in the same one-touch form as traditional radio presets.

The instrument cluster features a standard, reconfigurable, high-resolution 12.3-inch digital driver information center display paired with Cadillac's CUE infotainment system. Key data also is displayed on an available, full-color head-up display. Along with vehicle systems information, the color driver information center also provides details on the audio, Bluetooth phone and navigation systems, and they can be easily adjusted via steering wheel controls.

Precise exterior
The 2015 Cadillac Escalade's exterior advances a 15-year legacy of design distinction with evolved character cues designed to add sophistication. Full LED lighting creates a bold new interpretation of Cadillac's vertical light signature.

The headlamps incorporate the industry's first Total Internal Reflection LED high-beam function, which consists of four vertically stacked crystal lenses and LEDs. The low beam consists of five crystal lenses and LEDs that create the light pattern. The Cadillac script is branded in the headlamp bezel. Tall, thin vertical LED taillamps reach to the top of the Escalade and feature the brand's wreath-and-crest insignia, which illuminates in the dark. Cadillac Escalade also features LED-illuminated door handles on the Premium Collection.

New inlaid doors fit into the body side openings instead of over the top of the body, significantly reducing wind noise and contributing to improved aerodynamics that help the vehicles slip through the air on the highway with less wind drag. Active air shutters close in front of the condenser/radiator assembly at certain highway speeds to improve aerodynamics for greater efficiency. A lightweight aluminum hood and liftgate panels reduce overall mass.

Body panel gaps are tighter throughout. The new liftgate is designed to be sleeker in appearance integrates the rear window wiper into the spoiler.

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Bugatti Veyron Meo Costantini, 2013

 

 

 

 Bugatti Veyron Meo Costantini, 2013

Bugatti presented the third model in its six-part edition "Les Légendes de Bugatti" at the 2013 Dubai International Motor Show. This Legend car, which like all cars in the series is based on the Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse, pays homage to Meo Costantini. Costantini was a close friend of the company's founder, Ettore Bugatti. He was the head of Bugatti's factory race team for many years and was also a driver, winning the Targa Florio two times in the Bugatti Type 35, one of the most successful racing cars of all time.

The car is based on the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse. Its 8-liter W16 engine achieves an unparalleled torque of 1,500 Nm from 1,200 hp at 3,000-5,000 rpm, and can accelerate from 0-100 km (0-62 mph) in 2.6 seconds. The Vitesse was driven to a top speed of 408.84 km (253 MPH) with the roof down in April 2013, making it the fastest production roadster ever built. The Legend Edition "Meo Costantini" is priced at €2.09 million, excluding taxes and transport. As with all Bugatti Legend cars, the production run is limited to only three vehicles.

The Exterior
The body of the Vitesse Legend "Meo Costantini" is primarily constructed of carbon fiber. The wings, doors, the parts behind the doors, the "medaillons" (French) and corners of the front bumper are rendered in aluminium. The blue paintwork on the carbon fiber parts references France's classic motor sport color, as well as the Type 35. The new paint color "Bugatti Dark Blue Sport" has been specially developed for the vehicle. The aluminium parts are hand-polished and coated with clear lacquer. Bugatti is the only production manufacturer to offer polished clear-coated aluminium bodywork. Another special feature of this car is that individual parts have two different paint finishes. This requires great skill, and is particularly impressive to see on the wings, which are finished in both clear lacquer and blue paint.

As a reference to Costantini's victory at Targa Florio, the silhouette of the historic race course is painted on the underside of the rear wing (air-brake) in "Bugatti Dark Blue Sport." Another feature that pays tribute to the illustrious racing driver is his signature, which is laser-engraved into the aluminium tank and oil caps and painted in silver.

The Interior
The interior of the Legend Vitesse "Meo Costantini" is completely upholstered in leather. The roof, footwell, center sections of the seats and rear wall are all in the color "Gaucho", a sophisticated cognac tone. The seat's side cushions, arm rests, extended center console, door panels, dash panel, instrument panel and steering wheel are all trimmed in dark blue leather in the "Lake Blue" color. The decorative stitching in contrasting light blue ("Bugatti Light Blue Sport") lends an expressive touch.

A brief glance into the interior makes it immediately clear to whom the car is dedicated. The head restraints are embroidered with Meo Costantini's signature in "Bugatti Light Blue Sport," whilst the cover of the rear center box features the eye-catching silhouette of the Targa Florio race route. The silhouette is portrayed in a milled and polished aluminium relief that has been attached directly below the EB logo on the cover, itself crafted from dark blue clear-coated carbon fiber.

A special highlight of the interior is the racing scenes and vintage car motifs on the doors, which have been laser-engraved into the leather trim with the utmost precision and attention to detail. These images illustrate the most glorious moments of Meo Costantini's racing career and the exciting world of motor racing in the 1920s. The interior trim of the door pockets and door handle recesses in "Bugatti Light Blue Sport" adds a dash of color.

The Vitesse Legend "Meo Costantini" also shares several features with the other Legend cars in the Edition, including the inlay in the extended section of the center console, crafted of clear-coated carbon fiber and sporting the Legend logo with the famous Bugatti elephant, and the door sill strips displaying the likeness and signature of Meo Costantini.

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BMW 4-Series Convertible, 2014

 

 

 BMW 4-Series Convertible, 2014

The new BMW 4-Series Convertible heralds a new era in the premium mid-size range of open cars offered by BMW. The new design language introduced with the BMW 4-Series Coupe is even more evident in this second model of the series, enhancing the appearance of the BMW 4-Series Convertible while setting new standards in terms of dynamics, elegance and extraordinary driving pleasure - with the top up or down. In addition to having its own distinct design, the BMW 4-Series Convertible sets itself apart from its BMW 3-Series cousins through a number of distinguishing technical features.

The new BMW 4-Series Convertible is visibly larger in width, track and wheelbase than the BMW 3-Series Convertible

The vehicle's impeccable balance of proportions and characteristic flowing lines stem from the typical BMW short overhangs front and rear, the stretched bonnet and set-back passenger compartment. The striking BMW design features up front - such as the double-kidney grille, twin circular headlights and the large air intakes in the front apron - are keen to display this convertible's family ties with the BMW 3-Series.

However, the dynamic convictions of the BMW 4-Series Convertible are expressed by elements such as the so-called Air Breathers positioned rearward of the front wheel arches. Together with the Air Curtains, these elements reduce turbulence and aerodynamic drag at the front wheels. The markedly flat design of the boot area at the rear underlines the flowing harmony of the overall vehicle silhouette. Horizontal lines and muscular wheel arches combine to accentuate the car's wide track and rear-wheel drive concept.

Improved roof design and construction. Extra comfort. More functionality
The design language of the new BMW 4-Series Convertible is reflected in the car's unmistakable and elegant silhouette with balanced proportions when the top is down, and in the sleek look of the roofline - without a B column - when the hardtop is closed. The three-piece retractable hardtop of the BMW 4-Series Convertible is distinguished by advanced soundproofing with its "noise-absorbing" headliner, ensuring quietness and genuine passenger comfort under all weather conditions - even in winter. The interior roof is fully lined and features lamps that add to the ambience expected of a premium sport coupe. When the top is down and stored in the boot, the standard load and unload assistance function pivots the folded roof in the luggage compartment upwards to provide ample storage space and easy access. Thus even large and bulky items and luggage can be conveniently stowed when the top is down. The low and sporty seats ensure more headroom as well as added rear legroom in comparison to the predecessor model.

Individual equipment lines and exclusive details
The interior of the BMW 4-Series Convertible presents a stylish fusion of sporty allure, elegance and exclusivity. All of the controls are arranged ergonomically around the driver to provide optimum access to all functions. The doors are designed so that all the lines converge towards the rear, and bright colour combinations featuring a two-tone effect for the door and side panels contribute in combination with the hardtop cover to the "boat deck" look. This wrap-around interior design provides for a seating ensemble that allows all passengers to share the open-sky driving experience.

The design of the seats is new and includes integrated seatbelts. The seats are electrically adjustable as standard. If desired, the standard seats and the optional sport seats with recessed head restraints can be equipped with neck warmers for the driver and front passenger, an optional extra available for the first time.

When the top is down, the temperature setting is automatically controlled in relation to the outdoor temperature and the speed of the vehicle.

In addition to the standard model, three specially equipped lines and an M Sport package are also available. The Sport Line, Modern Line and Luxury Line versions can be selected to personalise the new convertible with special interior and exterior accents. The fine materials and meticulous craftsmanship underline the premium ambience of the BMW 4-Series Convertible.

Driving dynamics from the top drawer
In addition to the enjoyment of the unrivalled open-air driving experience at the push of a button, the BMW 4-Series Convertible also impresses with exhilarating performance and sovereign handling. BMW engineers have succeeded in making key improvements in areas such as steering accuracy, precision and agility. Sophisticated chassis technology, torque-steer-free Electric Power Steering, 50:50 weight distribution, a programme of fine-tuning in the wind tunnel and a lightweight construction concept enabled them to build an unadulterated driving machine. The sporty look of the convertible is evident in the longer wheelbase, wider track and standard lower suspension when compared with its predecessor model. Among many factors, the extremely low centre of gravity also accounts for the remarkable performance and handling of the new BMW 4-Series Convertible.

Two petrol engines and one diesel available at model launch
At model launch the BMW 4-Series Convertible can be delivered with an in-line six-cylinder petrol engine (BMW 435i Convertible), a four-cylinder petrol engine (BMW 428i Convertible) and a four-cylinder diesel (BMW 420d Convertible). These engines cover the performance range from 135 kW/184 hp to 225 kW/306 hp and feature the latest BMW Twin Power Turbo technology. These state-of-the-art engines imbue the BMW 4-Series Convertible with outstanding acceleration and elasticity while intelligently reducing fuel consumption in compliance with the EU6 standard.

Six-speed manual or eight-speed Sports automatic transmission
The power from the engines is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox as standard. BMW also offers all engine variants with an optional eight-speed Sports automatic transmission that allows the driver to change gears manually by using shift paddles on the steering wheel. Both transmissions are equipped as standard with the Auto Start Stop function.

BMW Efficient Dynamics
The sheer driving pleasure of the BMW 4-Series Convertible is accompanied by outstanding economy. The source of this low fuel consumption can be traced to BMW Efficient Dynamics, with innovations that can be found throughout the new BMW 4-Series Convertible. In addition to the optimised fuel economy of the petrol and diesel engines, the intelligent lightweight construction concept and honed aerodynamics - headlined by the Air Curtains and Air Breathers - also help to maximise efficiency. Other features such as the Auto Start Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, the gear shift indicator, on-demand operation of ancillary units and the innovative Proactive Driving Assistant all do their part to ensure low fuel consumption and reduced emissions, without compromising driving performance. The ECO PRO mode can even lead to fuel savings of 20 per cent. In conjunction with the automatic transmission, the new convertible - like the BMW 4-Series Coupe - also features a coasting mode for the first time.

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Bentley Continental GT3 Racecar, 2014

 

 

 Bentley Continental GT3 Racecar, 2014

Bentley debuted the Continental GT3 race car at the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed, unveiling a racing machine set to explore the extreme potential of Bentley's iconic Grand Tourer, the Continental GT. Member of the Board for Engineering, Rolf Frech, comments: "The Continental GT3 exploits the incredible performance beneath the skin of every Continental GT. We've removed over 1000 kilograms of weight, reconfigured our 4.0-litre V8 to produce 600 bhp in race specification, and developed a comprehensive aerodynamic package to ensure that we perform competitively. We are now looking forward to getting the car on the track and proving its potential."

The Bentley Continental GT3 is powered by a race-prepared and dry-sump version of Bentley's powerful but efficient 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, with many components carried over from the road-going engine. Developing up to 600 bhp in unrestricted race configuration via a motorsport engine management system, the V8 provides the GT3 with highly competitive power in a compact and lightweight package that's perfect for racing. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a carbon fibre propshaft to an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox with a limited slip differential, mounted as a transaxle for optimised weight distribution. Gear actuations are completed via a pneumatic shift system, controlled by paddles mounted to the steering wheel.

A double wishbone suspension configuration front and rear, fitted with four-way adjustable racing dampers, replaces the standard road-car air springs. The steering system features hydraulic power-assistance, while braking is via ventilated iron discs combined with six-piston calipers on the front and four-piston calipers on the rear.

The exterior of the car features a comprehensive aerodynamic package, to maximise downforce with optimised drag. A top-mounted carbon fibre rear wing provides rear downforce and stability, while a carbon fibre splitter balances the aerodynamic forces at the front of the car. Revisions have been made to the bonnet, bumpers, fenders and sills in order to optimise the car's drag coefficient and to assist with engine cooling.

With the removal of the leather and wood interior trim, the production electrical systems and advanced refinement materials that make the Continental GT such a capable Grand Tourer, the Bentley Continental GT3 weighs in under its target of 1300 kg. Despite the race-specification, the GT3 remains a hand-crafted Bentley, with the steering wheel, door pulls and seat all hand-trimmed and stitched by Bentley craftspeople at Crewe.

The design has been completed by a specialist team of engineers from Bentley Motors supported by the Continental GT3 Technical Partner, M-Sport Ltd. Managed from a dedicated motorsport facility base at Bentley's Crewe factory, an additional design office was created at M-Sport for the detail design stages and build of the first car.

The Bentley Continental GT3 now starts its programme of developmental track work, focussing on optimising the car's performance based on simulations and refining the car's abilities. Once homologation with the FIA has been completed, the GT3 will enter its first development races before starting full competition in the FIA Blancpain Series in 2014.

Specifications
Engine: 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, repositioned to the rear of the engine bay, Cosworth engine management system
Power: Approx. 600 bhp derestricted
Oil System: Dry sump
    Transmission: Rear wheel drive, Xtrac six-speed sequential transaxle gearbox, racing clutch, steering wheel mounted paddle operated pneumatic gear shift
Drivetrain: Carbon fibre propshaft, limited slip differential
Suspension: Double wishbone suspension front and rear, four-way adjustable racing dampers
Steering: Hydraulic power-assisted steering
    Brakes: Ventilated iron disc brakes front and rear, Brembo six-piston front calipers, four-piston rear calipers, driver-adjustable brake bias
    Safety: FIA-specification steel roll cage, Sparco six-point FIA safety harness, onboard fire extinguisher, onboard pneumatic jack system.
    Fuel System: FIA-specification racing fuel cell
    Electronics: Race-specification ABS and traction control. Lightweight race battery.
    Wheels: OZ Racing 18" x 13" rims
    Tyres: 310 / 710 R18
    Aerodynamics: Carbon fibre front splitter, rear wing and body panels. Lightweight, aerodynamically-optimised bumpers, bonnet, sills and fenders
    Length: 4950 mm
    Width: 2030 mm
    Height: 1350 mm
    Weight: <1300 kg
    Weight Distribution: 52 : 48

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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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