Renault Captur, 2014

 

 

 

 Renault Captur, 2014

The Renault Captur is the new urban crossover from Renault. Its flowing lines highlight its distinctive proportions, while its large wheels, generous ground clearance, wide tracks and steeply raked, forward-set windscreen form a unique blend of MPV, SUV and hatchback, conceived and made reality by Renault. Renault Captur lends itself perfectly to an extensive personalisation programme, too. With its many permutations of two-tone bodywork, wheel colours, light and dark interior trims, upholstery fabrics and graphic motifs, Captur appeal to a particularly broad spectrum of tastes and desires.

The creative freedom enjoyed by Renault's designers shines through in the features and generous interior space expected of this type of vehicle. Though compact (it is only fractionally longer than New Clio), Renault Captur is particularly roomy. The sliding rear bench seat provides the ideal balance of space for passengers and their luggage, with a maximum carrying capacity of 455dm3 (up to the baggage cover). In the passenger compartment, two ingenious innovations underline Captur's character as a truly user-friendly vehicle: a large drawer-type glove box, which is easy for the driver to reach and holds 11 litres, and the availability of removable seat covers which can be unzipped, machine washed at home and refitted.

The raised driving position is both comfortable and confidence-inspiring, as are the car's passive safety features, road holding and braking performance. The credit for Captur's ride comfort goes to the B platform, which it shares with New Clio.

Driving pleasure and fuel economy are the common denominators of Captur's 100% turbo engine line-up. Available petrol engines include the Energy TCe 90 (three cylinders and just 898cc) and the TCe 120 EDC (four cylinders, 1,198cc). The latter is available exclusively with EDC transmission (Efficient Dual Clutch) which delivers outstanding driving comfort. When it comes to diesel power, the Energy dCi 90 uses only 3.6 litres/100km and emits just 95g of CO2 per km, which are record low figures for Captur's class. This model will also become available with EDC transmission at a later date.

Renault Captur is built at the Valladolid plant in Spain, where particularly close attention has been paid to product quality and environmental impact. Up to 16% of the plastics used in Captur's production are sourced from recycling - an outstanding achievement, even if not visibly apparent.
Renault Captur, which went on sale in April 2013, bring a splash of welcome colour and glamour to the B segment, but without losing sight of the need to deliver common-sense practicality at the same time.

PASSIONATE, PRACTICAL AND INNOVATIVE
Ingenious and practical innovations are core values of Renault's stylish new crossover, which brings welcome fresh thinking to the B segment. Inspired by the concept car whose name and spirit it takes forward, Renault Captur is a proud standard-bearer for Renault's new design identity.

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Qoros 3 Hatch, 2015

 Qoros 3 Hatch, 2015

A year after the debut of new international car brand Qoros and its first production car, the company will stage the world premiere of its second production model, the Qoros 3 Hatch, at the 84th Geneva International Motor Show on 4 March 2014.

The design and engineering of the compact (C-segment) Qoros 3 Hatch draws heavily on the brand's first model, the Qoros 3 Sedan. While it is similarly inspired by contemporary European automotive styling themes, it displays a subtle, youthful evolution of the distinctive signature Qoros design cues to inject greater sportiness to the car's appearance.

The inside, key ergonomic features, refinement, understated quality and equipment are shared with its sedan compatriot, although new upholstery colour combinations and materials provide a fresh, new ambience.

Each Qoros 3 Hatch fitted as standard with the brand's innovative eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system - Qoros MMH™ (multimedia hub) - which is operated via smartphone-type multi-gesture finger swipe inputs for minimal driver distraction. The hardware, software and graphics were designed and developed in-house by Qoros with the support of world-leading systems specialists.

As part of Qoros' strategic objective to be creative in meeting the lifestyle needs of the modern metropolitan 'always-connected' consumer, the majority of the line-up will feature QorosQloud™, which delivers a comprehensive suite of free-for-life services with 3G connectivity, including vehicle monitoring, social networking and enhanced navigation. It brings a new perspective to the way motorists interact with their vehicles, seamlessly integrating with other digital devices through a dedicated website and smartphone apps.

The Qoros 3 Hatch is based on the same innovative modular platform as the Sedan. However, the Hatch features new C-pillars, roof, rear side panels, and tailgate, plus a new rear roof cross-member to maintain the car's exceptional torsional rigidity. Built using the same high-strength steels and structural design that resulted in the Qoros 3 Sedan being ranked by Euro NCAP as the 'safest car' of 2013, the new Hatch has the same wheelbase, width and height, but the rear overhang and overall length are reduced by 177mm.

With a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a coupé-like silhouette, the 4438mm- long new hatchback deliver unusually generous interior space for a vehicle in the compact segment.
The Hatch also shares with the Sedan its highly-efficient 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated and turbocharged engines and six-speed manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions.

The Qoros 3 Hatch  manufactured in the brand's all-new, highly-efficient and environmentally-sustainable assembly plant in Changshu, China, on the same production line as the Qoros 3 Sedan.
The new range of Qoros models is being designed and engineered by an international team of experienced specialists and new, young automotive talent.

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Porsche 911 Turbo, 2014

 

 Porsche 911 Turbo, 2014

In introducing the new generation 911 Turbo and Turbo S, Porsche is presenting the top cars of the 911 model series in terms of technology and dynamic performance. 40 years after the world premiere of the first Turbo prototype, the Porsche 911 Turbo is redefining the limits of what is feasible in a sports car for everyday use

For 40 years now, the unique selling point of the 911 Turbo has been the extreme spread of its capabilities that range between dynamic performance and efficiency, between exclusivity and everyday practicality, between tradition and innovation. Advanced development of existing systems and the introduction of new active systems are extending this range in such a way that the 911 Turbo models have now cranked their top values up a notch in all individual disciplines. For example, the lap time of the new Porsche 911 Turbo S at the North Loop of the Nürburgring was reduced to well under 7:30 minutes - naturally with standard production tyres. This advances it into realms of dynamic performance that were previously only attainable by uncompromisingly designed super sports cars.

More than ever, the two new top models also make a clear visual statement about their performance. The characteristic widely flared rear fenders of the new 911 Turbo generation are 28 mm wider than those of the 911 Carrera 4 models - a nearly level surface of more than a hand width extends out from the C-pillar to the outer edge of the car.

Independent, sporty and dynamic
The new 911 Turbo models have an unmistakable and independent look, which makes a clear statement about their special positioning within the 911 series and differentiates them from the competitive field. A key characteristic is the front body with its large cooling air intakes, independent front lights and fins in the lateral cooling air intakes that are all horizontally aligned.

In front, the new Porsche 911 Turbo S is distinguished by additional air scoops in black in the lateral cooling air openings. The front lights in LED technology each consist of a light frame, which is used in the 911 Turbo as a daytime running light and in the S model as a position light, and an integrated direction indicator. The Porsche 911 Turbo S makes its top position clear with standard full-LED headlights that feature four-point daytime running lights, which are available as an option in the 911 Turbo.

However, the special aspect of the new front body is the fact that the front spoiler is fully hidden in its retracted position. This gives the new top 911 a significantly lighter and more elegant frontal appearance. When the front spoiler is extended, however, the car shows its second performance-oriented face, and this is highlighted by the central "turbo" or "turbo S" badge on the lip of the black spoiler.

A focus on the key traits of a 911 Turbo is also apparent in a side view. At a standstill and in urban traffic, there is no spoiler lip to disturb the puristic form of the 911 front line. Clear and unmistakably typical of a Turbo, the air intake for the intercooler opens in front of the rear axle. Forming the visual end point of the so-called "fly line" is the characteristic rear fender, which is integrated more fully in the overall design in the new generation. The new 911 Turbo models give a significantly more dynamic overall appearance in side profile due to a combination of shorter body overhangs, front and rear, and an extended side line with a 100 mm longer wheelbase. Another visual accent is created by the new 20-inch forged aluminium wheels in bi-colour look. In the 911 Turbo, they have ten dual spokes, and in the S model they feature an especially fine structure with a strongly branched spoke design - and a hub lock.

Never before was a 911 more impressive when viewed from the rear. The new 911 Turbo generation has shoulders that are wider than those of any other 911. Above the rear axle, the body is 85 mm wider than at the front axle. The selected style of driving can be discerned from the adaptively adjustable rear wing. Retracted in its sub-shell at moderate speeds, it is extended at top speeds and is also tilted for a greater attack angle when maximum dynamic performance is required. Here, the form of the classic slotted wing was designed with even sharper lines, and together with the narrower wing base and the distinctive rear cover screen the wing is harmoniously integrated into the overall rear body design. The narrow rear lights of the new 911 generation in LED technology visually reinforce the broad shoulders of the new 911 Turbo models by their form and their further outboard mounting positions.

New body with greater rigidity and lower centre of gravity
The body of the new 911 Turbo models is based on the 911 Carrera body structure; as a result, it is based on intelligent lightweight design that utilises aluminium-steel composite construction. Along with extensive use of aluminium and polymer surfaces to reduce vehicle weight, the local use of ultra-high-strength steel offers high body rigidity for ideal occupant protection and excellent dynamic performance. The weight of the body-in-white was reduced 13 per cent compared to the previous models.

This basic concept represents the foundation for the substantial performance gains in the new 911 Turbo generation. Simply lengthening the wheelbase by 100 mm in conjunction with a wider track in front - 51 mm wider in the 911 Turbo and 49 mm wider in the Porsche 911 Turbo S - creates a completely new geometry with greater tracking and roll stability at high speeds on straight-aways and in bends. The lowered centre of gravity improves dynamic performance and agility, and the body's considerably greater rigidity provides the backbone for the highly precise chassis.

More spontaneous, quicker and more efficient
The entire powertrain of the new 911 Turbo models reflects the typical traits of advanced Porsche development. The turbocharged 3.8-litre six-cylinder with direct petrol injection produces 520 hp (383 kW) in the 911 Turbo and 560 hp (412 kW) in the S model. Porsche continues to be the only carmaker to offer two turbochargers with variable turbine geometry (VTG) in a petrol engine.

Power is transferred exclusively via a seven-speed Doppelkupplung (PDK), which in the top 911 cars now also enables the stop-start function with engine shutoff earlier while coasting to a stop and a separate coasting function. Together with a new thermal management system for the turbo engine, fuel efficiency technologies have reduced NEDC fuel consumption as much as 16 percent to 9.7 l/100 km, a figure that applies to both models.

The power level of the 911 Turbo was boosted by 20 hp (15 kW) and its torque was increased ten Newton metres to 660 Nm. In the S model, power was increased 30 hp (22 kW), and torque was increased ten Nm to 710 Nm. The increase in power of the new 911 Turbo was achieved primarily by improving engine efficiency with higher combustion pressures and new valve timing and ignition angle tuning. In the engine of the S model, charge pressure was increased to 1.2 bar to enhance power, and maximum engine speed was increased 200 rpm to 7,200 rpm. This lets the driver utilise an even broader engine speed range, and a higher connected speed with stronger drive torque at full load acceleration after a gear-shifting operation.

Overboost: power is boosted at the press of a button
The new sports cars perform even better in a sprint with the Sport Chrono package, which is standard equipment in the Porsche 911 Turbo S (optional in the 911 Turbo); for one, it offers increased torque. The "Overboost" function, which is being used in the Porsche 911 Turbo S for the first time, increases maximum charge pressure by around 0.15 bar for up to 20 seconds in the middle speed range; this increases maximum torque to 750 Nm. The pistons were reinforced and modified to ensure that the new 911 Turbo engines can withstand the higher loads associated with their higher power and torque values. Peak pressures were increased over ten per cent, and internal efficiency was significantly improved.

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Peugeot 208 GTi, 2014

 

 

 Peugeot 208 GTi, 2014

The successful launch of the new 208 in June 2012, Peugeot has rejuvenated the diverse Supermini car segment. This new model revolutionises customer choice with its elegance, style, compactness, occupant space and equipment. The 208 has been an instant success and the Peugeot 208 GTi deliver even stronger desirability with exhilaration, performance and panache.

Intended for demanding individuals, Peugeot 208 GTi owners will benefit from sophisticated choices of the materials and colours employed. The car's dynamism is expressed first of all by its external identity, specific and immediately recognisable, due to its characteristic posture. Defined on a widened track by 10mm at the front and 20mm at the rear, these three-door models are specially identified by bodywork components which enhance the overall effect, with wheels that hug the arches and with body sills and wing extensions that enhance its visual appearance.

Particularly eye catching and visible both by day and night, the light signature of the front face is refined by new halogen headlamps, equipped with a latest generation light guide. These carefully designed lamps with a rectangular internal structure use LED technology for the directional indicators and daytime lighting. Tightly enclosing the main beam headlamps, the floating trim of which calls to mind a cat's pupil, they give the expression of an iris.

These lamps frame a special 208 grille and on the GTi the mesh contributes to the dynamism, making the lamps stand out. The gloss black grille draws the eye with bright chrome inserts, which reinvent the sport chequered flag effect but in 3D. The end result is a front appearance which is technological and endearing while being sophisticated.

Attention to detail has also taken precedence in the design of the passenger compartment, to create a most pleasant environment. This applies even when stationary as it becomes evident at first glance when the door is opened, revealing the aluminium sill stamped with the Peugeot name. Dark colour schemes exist throughout the upper section and the Peugeot 208 GTi offers a unique ambiance themed with red highlights.

The dashboard houses a high-mounted instrument panel with an innovative and distinctive light signature. Echoing the LED functions of the headlamps, the dials are surrounded with satin chrome beads backlit by LEDs, whereas the needles move on a brushed aluminium background.

The passenger compartment is also punctuated with carefully designed components. So, the vents, the side decorations of the touchscreen, the dashboard decoration, the steering wheel insert, the seat belts, the front and rear door crossbars all blend with the same interior ambiance. The aluminium pedal bracket and footrest provide the final touch to this technological and refined interior.

Peugeot 208 GTi, re-generation of the legend
Peugeot has made its mark in the history of motor sport. Whether through its models, its success in competition or its infamy through advertising and promotions, the Marque's DNA has the best genes for creating the modern performance GTi. The expectation was simple: to create a playful and chic sports car, a contemporary interpretation of the legend that is a Peugeot GTi.

At first glance, the eyes are impressed initially by presence, with a vehicle which affirms its identity: sporty and refined. There can be no doubting the sportiness of this new 208 derivative. Crossing the gloss black rear skirt, the exhaust emerges with a trapezoid chromed double tailpipe, an innovative design emphasising the uniqueness of this model. The chromed trim strip decorates the window lower edge culminating in a signature accent that pays tribute to the illustrious 205 GTi.

Furthermore, the quarter panel trim proudly bears the GTi logo, in bright chrome accentuated in red highlights. Regardless of the exterior colour chosen, this red punctuates throughout the vehicle: on brake callipers, grille lower bead, Peugeot lettering on the tailgate and on the grille. In addition, the mesh of the grille has a 3D chequered motif, with chromed inserts in the gloss black grille. The whole is subtly enhanced by the touches of bright chrome on the fog lamp trim surrounds, the grille upper trim and the door mirrors.

Opening the doors reveals a passenger compartment that reflects the paintwork. From the sill, embossed with the name Peugeot, the passenger compartment is notably sporty. With a colour scheme combining red, black and satin chrome and red GTi overstitching throughout, the interior is striking, down to the smallest detail.

Resolutely sporty, the seat combines full grain Club Nappa leather and Caro Weave cloth, made more dynamic by a red line detail. The dashboard with red overstitching has a decoration of red graduating to black, matching the door crossbars. The vehicle performance information is provided via the high-mounted instrument panel. Technological, it is equipped with a colour matrix, surrounded by dials with a chromed bead back-lit in red by LEDs. On their brushed aluminium background, decorated with a gloss black chequered motif, the white needles rise through to the red zone.

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Opel Meriva, 2014

 

 Opel Meriva, 2014

The Opel Meriva has, since its first appearance in 2003, been the star and benchmark amongst the small monocabs. The second generation launched in 2010 has raised the standard with innovative features such as its rear-hinged Flex Doors, its exquisite, flexible seating, relaxed posture on front- and rear seats and many clever storage solutions. All these make the current Meriva the Ergonomics Champion, as has been concluded by independent health experts. Opel now presents the new Meriva - more sophisticated, more efficient and more functional than ever. It celebrated its world premiere at the 2014 Brussels' Motor Show in mid-January 2014.

The new Opel Meriva is a consistent continuation of the previous concept enhanced with finer ingredients. It receives a new face that has the characteristics of the new Opel Insignia revealed at the 2013 IAA, with an elegant, generously chromed front grille and sparkling design for the lights. LED technology is now available for the daytime running lights and rear lamps resulting in a crisp, high tech look. A fine chrome trim highlights the typical window wave-shaped belt line, raising the Meriva's appeal and placing it neatly alongside the ADAM, the Cascada and the Insignia.

The new Meriva features Opel's new generation diesel power train, the 1.6 CDTI that is just having its debut in the Zafira Tourer. This ultra-refined whisper-diesel, the quietest in its class, is initially available in the power variant 100 kW/136 hp and delivers 320 Newt on meters of maximum torque. It consumes just 4.4 liters per 100 kilometers and emits 116 grams of CO2 per kilometer, 10 per cent less than its 96 kW/130 hp, 1.7 predecessor, while it also boasts much better acceleration and performance. In the course of the year 2014, other 1.6 diesel engines will follow, which will be even more economical and have even lower CO2 emissions.

In addition to the 1.6 diesel, all gasoline engines and the LPG variant in the new Meriva already comply with the future, strict Euro 6 emissions limits. The 1.4 liter gasoline engines (88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp) are now also offered in combination with a reworked low-friction six-speed automatic transmission. As for the five and six-speed manual gearboxes, these have been substantially upgraded and offer more precise shifting, with smooth operation and minimal effort.

The new Opel Meriva also receives a new, state-of-the-art Intelli Link infotainment system with embedded, fast and user-friendly navigation and voice control. The large, high-definition, seven-inch color monitor affords great readability and easy operation. It also displays the image from the rear-view camera. Making calls and audiostreaming via Bluetooth are also possible. The Navi 950 Intelli Link comes standard with comprehensive map information covering the whole of Europe, and further updates can easily be downloaded via USB.

Fresh design with chic features and elegant chrome elements
Opel's design philosophy - sculptural artistry meets German precision - fits perfectly with a small, highly flexible monocab. The new Meriva benefits from many improvements that give it a more refined appearance. The front fascia now features a new grille with higher chrome content, as well as chrome accents embracing the fog lamps. The grille is framed by the newly-designed front headlights with an eagle eye graphic. For the first time, LED daytime running lights are available. On the side, the new elegant chrome beltline effectively highlights the waved design that accentuates the rear window. This feature and the centrally located door handles mark out the innovative FlexDoors, rear-hinged rear doors which allow for easy entry into the vehicle.

The dynamic and elegant character of the rear gets a new touch of class thanks to LED lights with new, marked high quality graphics. The new Meriva also features newly-designed 17 and 18 inch wheels with premium look and feel. With this, the Opel Meriva remains the only small monocab offering 18-inch wheels which give it a unique stance and presence on the road, placing it a cut above its competitors.

New Euro 6-clean diesel generation with trend-setting technology
The new Meriva boasts the new generation Opel 1.6 CDTI medium-displacement turbo-diesel engine. Developed from scratch, this engine is just making its debut in the Zafira Tourer. In the Meriva, its several variants will progressively replace the 1.3 and 1.7 CDTI power units. The new 1.6 CDTI convinces with strong performance, great fuel economy, and impressive refinement. However, it does not just cater to its passengers but also to the environment. Already today, it complies with the future emissions regulation Euro 6, that will come into force in September 2015.

Initially, Opel offer the new Opel Meriva with the 100kW/136hp version of this new generation engine. The all-aluminum power unit with Common-Rail direct injection and Variable Turbine Geometry Turbocharger offers 320 Newtonmeters of maximum torque at 2,000 rpm. This is 6 additional hp and 20 Nm more than the 1.7 CDTI it succeeds, allowing for a substantial improvement in acceleration: The new Meriva swiftly reaches 100 km/h from standstill in just 9.1 seconds, vs. 9.9 seconds previously. However, it also impresses with its values in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions thanks to the lowest frictions of its engine class between1,500 and 2,500 rpm. Consumption and emissions are expected to be of only 4.4 liters per 100 kilometer and 116 grams per kilometer respectively. This is a 10% improvement compared to the previous 96 kW/130 hp 1.7 CDTI (which required 4.9 liter and produced 129 grams). Additional versions of the new generation 1.6 CDTI with even lower fuel consumption and CO2 levels will be introduced in the first half of 2014.

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Nissan Micra, 2014

 

 Nissan Micra, 2014

The Nissna Micra, one of the most significant models in Nissan's history and the bedrock on which the company's current success has been built, has undergone a series of improvements and enhancements.

The changes are so wide ranging that they go well beyond what usually constitutes a mid-term facelift. And although the revised model is based on the popular fourth generation 'K13' city car, Nissan is calling it 'New Micra'.

As well as a completely new look front and rear - complete with sheet metal changes - New Micra has been given a substantial interior makeover. There is new technology, a new centre console, new trim, and new finishing touches plus audio USB and Aux-in slots.

Depending on the version there's an all-new communication centre with a new radio and the latest state-of-the-art touchscreen navigation system now with a larger screen. On the exterior, additions include two bold new colours and new 16-inch and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Nissan has also expanded Micra's choice of personalisation options designed to allow an owner to create their own unique Micra. The changes, allied to the model's acclaimed performance and handling, boost and broaden the appeal of Nissan's smallest car.
At its heart, however, New Micra remains true to the design ethos that shaped the definitive small car when the original Micra was launched, 30 years and more than six million examples ago.

New Nissna Micra remains not just fun to drive and, thanks to its compact turning circle, easy to park but is also one of the most advanced small cars on the market.

Amongst its features are its highly efficient direct injection gasoline-supercharged (DIG-S) petrol engine, its innovative, accessible and genuinely helpful Parking Slot Measurement, which helps guide the driver into tight parking spaces, and I-Key which delivers not just keyless entry to the car but also keyless engine start.

With its new look, comprehensive improvements and quality upgrades, New Micra will build on the success of the current Micra, introduced to the European market three years ago. Underlining its importance to the company, it is the third best selling Nissan model in Europe behind Qashqai and Juke.

Changes in detail
Nissna Micra, known as March in some countries, is built in four centres globally and sold in 56 countries worldwide. All cars destined for Europe are made in India, with the three other production sites being in Thailand, Mexico and China.

But despite the global reach of the car, many of the changes to New Micra, which is due to reach dealer showrooms across Europe in September, have been made specifically for the European market.

The result is a car that not only looks distinctively European, but also delivers against the demands of the discerning European car buyer who expects the highest levels of performance, handling, quality and technical innovation.

The most obvious changes to the car can be found on the exterior. New Micra's entire 'face' has changed with a new grille re-establishing a stronger link to Nissan's corporate look where the familiar circular badge is 'held' within a chromed extended V-shaped motif.

It's all change at the rear, too, with a new bumper, new LED tail lamps and a new infill panel at the bottom of the tailgate.

The new look is complemented by a new 15-inch alloy wheel design and the introduction of machine-finished 16-inch alloys. Together the styling changes make New Micra appear more purposeful and better 'planted' on the road.

An eye-catching palette includes two new colours: pearl metallic Pacific Blue, a predominantly turquoise shade, and metallic Platinum Sage. These join the eight existing colours.

A number of significant changes can be found inside New Micra, too. The instrument graphics ahead of the driver have been improved for greater clarity, while there's a totally new centre console with restyled air vents.

The interior has been enhanced with the use of gloss black finish on the centre console and a silver look to the gear selector finisher. The door armrests have been textured to give a higher quality appearance and there are new seat and door pad fabrics. Visia and Acenta grades have a durable tricot/tricot mesh woven fabric while top Tekna models have a suede-like fabric with double stitching.

The interior also now benefits from dash-mounted Aux-in and USB slots linked to all audio units while a 12v socket has been added, allowing mobile phones or MP3 players to be recharged on the move with ease.

All but entry-level Visia models benefit from audio equipment that has been better integrated into the centre console with matching gloss and matt black finishers as appropriate.

More significantly, New Micra benefits from the availability of the latest NissanConnect navigation and communication system, which has new features and a bigger 5.8-inch screen (up from 5-inches) with chromed controls.

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Mitsubishi GR-HEV Concept, 2013

 

 

Mitsubishi GR-HEV Concept, 2013

Ever since it started R&D on electro-mobility back in 1966, today's Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) always considered that electric vehicles (EV) should eventually become long-term core products - a view vindicated by recent concerns over global warming.

From the pioneering i-MiEV in 2009 and a self-imposed objective of 20% of EV-based cars by 2020, MMC has already made significant steps in this direction as demonstrated with the all-new Outlander Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle ("PHEV") and its most innovative "Dual Design" architecture.

Expanding further, Mitsubishi Motors now explores the full electro-mobility engineering palette - Pure Electric (EV), Hybrid Electric (HEV), Plug-in Hybrid Electric (PHEV) - hinted at through two concept cars world-premiered at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, next to the New Outlander PHEV, one of which is the cutting edge GR-HEV Concept Sport Utility Hybrid Truck.

Going Hybrid
If electric vehicles are to have a significant impact on the environment, they should be able to attract a wide spectrum of customers with a full palette of EV-based vehicles across the range, from small runabouts to big SUVs, each using a dedicated application of the technology (EV, HEV or PHEV)

In this respect, New Outlander PHEV has already proved that EV powertrain and long-haul D-Segment crossover are perfectly compatible.

At MMC. the next logical step will be to expand further, adapting electric componentry to the demands of an even larger, tougher, sportier vehicle with both work and leisure in mind in either mature or emerging markets.

Below 149 g/km
With this evocation of a possible next "Dual Design" vehicle, Mitsubishi Motors introduces an all-new proprietary HEV solution, featuring a 2.5 litre Mitsubishi Clean Diesel engine and a front-mounted electric motor, mated to an automatic gearbox - all controlled by an electronic operating system - as well as a battery pack located (and protected) within the ladder frame - further protection being provided by cross guard bars.

Simpler and more affordable than either EV and PHEV, HEV is deemed best suited to the heavy-duty daily requirements of pickup truck users and a perfect vector for MMC's green ambitions all the way to the most remote corners of the planet with an ambitious target for CO2 emissions below 149 g/km - far better than segment average.

Beyond this specific one-ton pickup application, the addition of an electric motor to a Diesel engine brings further benefits:

•     Instant response from the electric motor boosts Diesel engine accelerations.
•     The motor also increases high-end torque of the Diesel engine.
•     Quieter accelerations and high-speed cruising (within legal limits).
•     Cleaner Diesel emissions.

The combination can also provide pure electric power on demand with available AC supply (100V~240V), to replace a generator or to allow the use of a 100V winch for instance, as well as the ability to drive over short distances in pure-electric mode.

GR-HEV Concept also uses Mitsubishi's renowned full-time 4WD technology, featuring Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics control system to deliver high stability traction and driving performance under all road conditions.

The HEV-dedicated driveline uses S-AWC to tailor output and braking to each wheel for every drive mode (2L, 4H, 4HL, 4LL) selected by the driver to help when facing difficult driving conditions:

• Safer, sure-footed all-terrain performance over mud, sand, snow-covered surfaces as S-AWC system leverages motor's instant response and controls braking force at each wheel.
• Torque regulation for instant response and excellent all-terrain performance.
• Improves stability when towing.

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Mini Paceman UK-Version, 2014

 

 

 Mini Paceman UK-Version, 2014

A sporty new exterior design, lowered suspension for a dynamic ride and an exciting reinterpretation of the familiar interior - feast your eyes on the all-new MINI Paceman.

Styled as a coupé interpretation of the Countryman, five versions are available from launch, including the MINI Cooper S Paceman which has a 0-62mph of just 7.5 seconds. The seventh unique member of the family, it sells alongside the Hatch, Clubman, Convertible, Countryman, Coupé and Roadster.

Packed with MINI character and obvious design cues which tie it to the rest of the range, the three-door Paceman's unique exterior styling is what immediately catches the eye. Built on the Countryman platform, bumper to bumper the car is 4,109 mm (4,115mm for MINI Cooper S Paceman and Cooper SD Paceman), which makes it almost identical in size to its sibling.

With a contemporary and expressive body shape, the MINI Paceman has been created to appeal to a new type of design-conscious customer. The prominent horizontal lines and dynamic curved surfaces give the promise of sporting performance, yet there is an elegant simplicity to the overall form of the car.

The upright front grille, complete with hexagonal radiator grille and broad chrome surround, gives the Paceman genuine presence. Its coupé-style stretched side profile features long doors, while the blacked-out pillars create a 'floating' roof concept, as already seen on the MINI Coupé. Available in either black, white or body colour, the roof gently slopes towards the rear of the car, ending at the integrated spoiler. The horizontal arrangement of the rear lights, which accentuates the car's width, is a first for MINI. The Paceman is the only member of the brand's line-up to be identified by a rear nameplate.

The car's interior has been designed specifically for this model. Its highlight is the innovative rear seat, which has been styled around a lounge concept. Two individual chairs provide generous levels of head, shoulder and knee room with outstanding comfort and support. Armrests have been integrated into the rear trim. A two-section version of the MINI Centre Rail storage and attachment system - first seen in the Countryman - comes as standard. A full-length variant is available as an option.

The MINI Paceman is a strict four-seater, though practicality has not been sacrificed. Folding down the rear seats expands the rear load-carrying capacity from 330 litres to a maximum of 1,080 litres. Access is via a large and high-opening tailgate, offering extra practicality for owners.

In the front, the raised seating position gives the driver and passenger an excellent view in every direction. The instrument panel includes many familiar components, including the large round central speedo. However, its black surround and decorative inner rings in high-gloss black or chrome are new, as are the redesigned air vent surrounds. Buttons for the windows, which have been toggle switches below the speedo on every MINI to date, have moved to the door trim panel.

MINI's trademark go-kart handling is a key part of the Paceman's appeal, enhanced by the optional all-wheel drive transmission. Lowered sports suspension as standard helps provide customers with an outstanding driving experience, though regular suspension and ride height are available as a no-cost option.

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