New Renault Laguna: the lowdown
Renault's big-selling Laguna will be replaced in the autumn autumn with this distinctive new family car sgames. Okay, so it's not the most radical car Renault has ever produced, but it does usher in some interesting developments from La Régie, as it chases down the new Ford Mondeo and forthcoming Vauxhall Vectra. For starters, the Laguna is the latest car to be lighter than the model it replaces; despite being longer, wider and taller, it's an average 15kg skinnier across the range, which should boost performance, economy and emissions. The new Laguna spearheads a new push to make Renaults better known for quality and eco credentials. Press 'Next' to find out why.
What's under the skin?
Renault makes no bones about it - the Laguna is aimed squarely at the business market in many countries, so most buyers will avoid the two petrol engines (a 2.0 with 138bhp or turbocharged to turn out 168bhp) and plump straight for one of the diesels. Unusually for a big family car, the Laguna will offer a small 1.5 dCi with 109bhp, as well as a more typical 2.0 diesel. Pick the former for clean emissions - just 136g/km of CO2 is impessive for such a big car - or the latter for some motorway-munching torque. The 2.0-litre diesel is available in 128, 148 and 173bhp guises. Renault is making a lot of noise about the eco credentials of the new Laguna; the top diesel with particulate trap is Renault's first to meet forthcoming Euro5 emissions regulations, while every new Laguna will have a six-speed gearbox for quieter cruising. To answer critics who berate the Laguna for its so-so driving qualities, this one could even be a fun drive. The engineers have stiffened the damper rates by 20 percent at the front and 50 percent at the rear, and are claiming a much sportier response. But then they would say that, wouldn't they?
Thứ Bảy, 3 tháng 3, 2012
BMW X5 M Sport (2007): first official pictures
Wait! Let me guess - a fast X5?
You're very good. Yes, BMW’s X5 range has a new flagship model – the tough-looking 4.8i M Sport. The £53,440 SUV gets a not-so-subtle Motorsport upgrade including an M Sport body kit and steering wheel, lightweight 19-inch alloys, uprated suspension, grippier leather-wrapped sports seats, high-gloss roof rails and matt aluminium exterior trim. Bigger 20-inch alloys are a further option as is bamboo and poplar internal trim. The Sport model is a big seller in the UK – nine out of 10 buyers of the outgoing X5 opted for an M Sport model – but diesel fans, who account for 90 percent of X5 sales, will have to wait until October for the 3.0d M Sport model to arrive. Expect a £43,600 price tag. Read our first drive of the new BMW X5 here.
It looks the part...
And it goes some too. The M Sport is powered by BMW’s 4799cc V8. Fitted with Bi-Vanos and Valvetronic, the high-revving unit pushes out 355bhp at 6300rpm and a 350lb ft at 3500rpm – enough to rocket the 2245kg all-wheel-drive X5 to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and onto a 150mph top speed. The popularity of the M Sport line-up is central to BMW’s decision to create even more radical sports cross-overs like the recently announced SFC space functional concept to take on the Mercedes R-class and the upcoming Range Rover Sport rival, the X6 four-seater.
You're very good. Yes, BMW’s X5 range has a new flagship model – the tough-looking 4.8i M Sport. The £53,440 SUV gets a not-so-subtle Motorsport upgrade including an M Sport body kit and steering wheel, lightweight 19-inch alloys, uprated suspension, grippier leather-wrapped sports seats, high-gloss roof rails and matt aluminium exterior trim. Bigger 20-inch alloys are a further option as is bamboo and poplar internal trim. The Sport model is a big seller in the UK – nine out of 10 buyers of the outgoing X5 opted for an M Sport model – but diesel fans, who account for 90 percent of X5 sales, will have to wait until October for the 3.0d M Sport model to arrive. Expect a £43,600 price tag. Read our first drive of the new BMW X5 here.
It looks the part...
And it goes some too. The M Sport is powered by BMW’s 4799cc V8. Fitted with Bi-Vanos and Valvetronic, the high-revving unit pushes out 355bhp at 6300rpm and a 350lb ft at 3500rpm – enough to rocket the 2245kg all-wheel-drive X5 to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and onto a 150mph top speed. The popularity of the M Sport line-up is central to BMW’s decision to create even more radical sports cross-overs like the recently announced SFC space functional concept to take on the Mercedes R-class and the upcoming Range Rover Sport rival, the X6 four-seater.
Caterham Seven X330 (2007): first official pictures
Caterham Seven X330: yet another track-day weapon?
More of a track-day god. This is the most powerful Seven ever, packing a supercharger and 330bhp in a car that weighs next to nothing. That makes for a mammoth 600bhp-per-tonne and places the X330 firmly in front of the Bugatti Veyron in the power-to-weight stakes. Don’t start dribbling just yet though, as the X330 is strictly a concept – for now. Caterham is toying with the idea of production but the car is currently a test bed for the firm’s development of bioethanol power.
So, what have the boffins at Caterham done to create such a massive power-to-weight figure?
The standard range topper from Caterham is the CSR Superlight which pumps out 260bhp from the 2.3-litre Ford Duratec engine and results in a blistering 0-60mph time of 3.1 seconds. Add to that a Rotrex supercharger and you’re looking at acceleration to make your eyes water. It’s too early to confirm figures but Caterham is estimating a 0-60 time of 3 seconds or less. Not content with bolting on a meaty supercharger, Caterham has also shaved a few more pounds off the X330 by using lighter gauge steel in the chassis, new lightweight wheels and oodles of carbon fibre for the bodywork. Track-day junkies should start praying for production.
More of a track-day god. This is the most powerful Seven ever, packing a supercharger and 330bhp in a car that weighs next to nothing. That makes for a mammoth 600bhp-per-tonne and places the X330 firmly in front of the Bugatti Veyron in the power-to-weight stakes. Don’t start dribbling just yet though, as the X330 is strictly a concept – for now. Caterham is toying with the idea of production but the car is currently a test bed for the firm’s development of bioethanol power.
So, what have the boffins at Caterham done to create such a massive power-to-weight figure?
The standard range topper from Caterham is the CSR Superlight which pumps out 260bhp from the 2.3-litre Ford Duratec engine and results in a blistering 0-60mph time of 3.1 seconds. Add to that a Rotrex supercharger and you’re looking at acceleration to make your eyes water. It’s too early to confirm figures but Caterham is estimating a 0-60 time of 3 seconds or less. Not content with bolting on a meaty supercharger, Caterham has also shaved a few more pounds off the X330 by using lighter gauge steel in the chassis, new lightweight wheels and oodles of carbon fibre for the bodywork. Track-day junkies should start praying for production.
Volkswagen Tiguan (2007): first official pictures
Volkswagen Tiguan: the lowdown
Here’s an unusual scoop – officially sanctioned photos of VW’s Tiguan hot-weather testing in Namibia. It’s still in pre-production form, but these shots reveal the finished look aside from the fake grille to fool ‘real’ spy photographers. The Tiguan has changed little since it was unveiled in concept form at the Los Angeles show last November and save for a bit of disguise around the lights VW isn’t leaving much to the imagination.
What exactly is the Tiguan?
Based on the Golf, the Tiguan is VW’s contender in the mid-range SUV market. It will take on the likes of the Freelander, X3 and Audi’s forthcoming Cross Coupe Concept. Volkswagen is boasting a vast array of electronic gadgetry on the Tiguan, which makes it the most advanced small SUV on the market. VW claims it will arrive in showrooms later in the year.
Here’s an unusual scoop – officially sanctioned photos of VW’s Tiguan hot-weather testing in Namibia. It’s still in pre-production form, but these shots reveal the finished look aside from the fake grille to fool ‘real’ spy photographers. The Tiguan has changed little since it was unveiled in concept form at the Los Angeles show last November and save for a bit of disguise around the lights VW isn’t leaving much to the imagination.
What exactly is the Tiguan?
Based on the Golf, the Tiguan is VW’s contender in the mid-range SUV market. It will take on the likes of the Freelander, X3 and Audi’s forthcoming Cross Coupe Concept. Volkswagen is boasting a vast array of electronic gadgetry on the Tiguan, which makes it the most advanced small SUV on the market. VW claims it will arrive in showrooms later in the year.
Caparo T1 (2007) in detail
What's the latest news?
The Caparo T1 is launched today, and it's the most extreme supercar ever built, claim its creators. Out of the way Le Mans racer or superbike – the British designed T1 is mightier than both. Thanks to its featherlight structure and 575bhp V8 engine, the Caparo can crack 60mph in less than 2.5sec, and demolish the 100mph barrier in under 5.0sec. It piles on speed at such a phenomenal pace thanks to a staggering power-to-weight ratio of 1045bhp per tonne. That's twice as powerful as the world's fastest production car, the 252mph Bugatti Veyron, which musters 'just' 506bhp per tonne. The T1 is the first series production car to break the 1000bhp per tonne ceiling, a feat beyond even the most vicious superbike, say the Caparo team. Two prototypes are lapping the Goodwood Motor Circuit right now, as the new British hero is showcased to the press. Naturally CAR Online is there, and first to bring you all the details.
Sounds amazing. Let's have the juice then...
The T1 supercar is a showcase for automotive consultancy Caparo Vehicle Technologies. This British-based multinational designs, manufactures and supplies components to the automotive industry. Its dream is to get more parts from lightweight metals or composites into mass production, to bring down the weight of family cars. Just don't expect the average family hatch to be as exotic – and therefore as expensive – as the T1. The limited edition supercar will cost £190,000 plus taxes. For that price, you get a car that weighs a featherlight 550kg. That's around one-third of the weight of a family saloon, and an impressive 250kg less than a Lotus Elise. The T1's principal designer is Ben Scott-Geddes, who cut his teeth at McLaren cars working on the Mercedes SLR. Like the McMerc, the T1 is made of advanced materials carbonfibre and aluminium. The monocoque is made from carbonfibre, like an F1 car which it closely resembles.
The Caparo T1 is launched today, and it's the most extreme supercar ever built, claim its creators. Out of the way Le Mans racer or superbike – the British designed T1 is mightier than both. Thanks to its featherlight structure and 575bhp V8 engine, the Caparo can crack 60mph in less than 2.5sec, and demolish the 100mph barrier in under 5.0sec. It piles on speed at such a phenomenal pace thanks to a staggering power-to-weight ratio of 1045bhp per tonne. That's twice as powerful as the world's fastest production car, the 252mph Bugatti Veyron, which musters 'just' 506bhp per tonne. The T1 is the first series production car to break the 1000bhp per tonne ceiling, a feat beyond even the most vicious superbike, say the Caparo team. Two prototypes are lapping the Goodwood Motor Circuit right now, as the new British hero is showcased to the press. Naturally CAR Online is there, and first to bring you all the details.
Sounds amazing. Let's have the juice then...
The T1 supercar is a showcase for automotive consultancy Caparo Vehicle Technologies. This British-based multinational designs, manufactures and supplies components to the automotive industry. Its dream is to get more parts from lightweight metals or composites into mass production, to bring down the weight of family cars. Just don't expect the average family hatch to be as exotic – and therefore as expensive – as the T1. The limited edition supercar will cost £190,000 plus taxes. For that price, you get a car that weighs a featherlight 550kg. That's around one-third of the weight of a family saloon, and an impressive 250kg less than a Lotus Elise. The T1's principal designer is Ben Scott-Geddes, who cut his teeth at McLaren cars working on the Mercedes SLR. Like the McMerc, the T1 is made of advanced materials carbonfibre and aluminium. The monocoque is made from carbonfibre, like an F1 car which it closely resembles.
Daihatsu Materia (2007): first official pictures
Daihatsu Materia: the lowdown
At last, a Daihatsu with at least some street-cred! This is the new Materia mini-MPV, due to go on sale in July. It borrows the slammed-low, urban styling pioneered by cars such as the Nissan Cube and Honda Element, but this one will be imported officially into the UK. The choice of engines isn’t a choice at all – you get a 1.5-litre petrol with 102bhp and a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox. Standard equipment is generous and includes power steering, ABS, air-conditioning and six-speaker radio-CD. It’s refreshing in this day and age to find only one factory option available: metallic paint at £325.
That design seems familiar...
Elsewhere in the world, the Materia is sold as a Daihatsu and a Toyota Bb, so you might recognise it from foreign shores. But there are definite echoes of the Nissan Cube (sold only in Japan) and the Honda Element in the boxy design. Daihatsu isn't trying to hide it either, admitting that the squat stance, flared wheelarches and minimal overhangs look has achieved a ‘cult-following’ in Japan, with several manufacturers struggling to keep up with consumer demand. Who is Daihatsu targeting with the Materia? It reckons European customers will be in the market for a Renault Modus and Vauxhall Meriva, and the Materia is undeniably cooler looking than either. But only time will tell whether Europeans will stomach the toy-town looks and shun the more conservatively styled MPVs they’re used to.
At last, a Daihatsu with at least some street-cred! This is the new Materia mini-MPV, due to go on sale in July. It borrows the slammed-low, urban styling pioneered by cars such as the Nissan Cube and Honda Element, but this one will be imported officially into the UK. The choice of engines isn’t a choice at all – you get a 1.5-litre petrol with 102bhp and a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox. Standard equipment is generous and includes power steering, ABS, air-conditioning and six-speaker radio-CD. It’s refreshing in this day and age to find only one factory option available: metallic paint at £325.
That design seems familiar...
Elsewhere in the world, the Materia is sold as a Daihatsu and a Toyota Bb, so you might recognise it from foreign shores. But there are definite echoes of the Nissan Cube (sold only in Japan) and the Honda Element in the boxy design. Daihatsu isn't trying to hide it either, admitting that the squat stance, flared wheelarches and minimal overhangs look has achieved a ‘cult-following’ in Japan, with several manufacturers struggling to keep up with consumer demand. Who is Daihatsu targeting with the Materia? It reckons European customers will be in the market for a Renault Modus and Vauxhall Meriva, and the Materia is undeniably cooler looking than either. But only time will tell whether Europeans will stomach the toy-town looks and shun the more conservatively styled MPVs they’re used to.
Ferrari Mille Chili conceept (2007): first official pictures
The Mille Chili? So this is Ferrari’s green supercar…
Yes. Officially it has no name, but internally it’s called the Mille Chili (thousand kilos) and it’s arguably the most important concept car Ferrari has ever shown. Don’t be fooled by its shrunken-Enzo appearance. In revealing the car today at its Fiorano test track, Ferrari has lifted the lid on a series of radical new technologies – including a hybrid powertrain – which will cut weight, improve efficiency and help it make its case to lawmakers worldwide intent on imposing emissions limits which Ferrari can’t hope to meet. The concept shows how small and light an Enzo could be if it used all the technologies Ferrari is currently working on; the Mille Chili is around 300kg lighter and nearly a metre shorter. But it will never be made; it is purely a technology showcase. Ferrari claims that almost all the advances have their roots in Formula One, and all are being readied for introduction on different future Ferraris. Component by component, CAR Online exclusively reveals what makes the Mille Chili so important. Click 'Next' to read more.
Surely the Mille Chili isn't a real hybrid?
No. From 2009, F1 cars will be able to regenerate and re-use 60kW of power. The same system will be adapted for road cars from 2012. A battery and electric motor will briefly deliver a slug of torque to the rear wheels to cover the gap when shifting. By then, shift times could be as low as 30 milliseconds; even the current F430 takes 150ms. The result will be shifts as seamless as a twin-clutch, DSG gearbox, which Ferrari is also developing but remains sceptical about. Including an electric drive element would be a huge leap for Ferrari; engineers won’t speculate about developments beyond 2012, but this system could be the precursor to a performance-oriented full hybrid.
Yes. Officially it has no name, but internally it’s called the Mille Chili (thousand kilos) and it’s arguably the most important concept car Ferrari has ever shown. Don’t be fooled by its shrunken-Enzo appearance. In revealing the car today at its Fiorano test track, Ferrari has lifted the lid on a series of radical new technologies – including a hybrid powertrain – which will cut weight, improve efficiency and help it make its case to lawmakers worldwide intent on imposing emissions limits which Ferrari can’t hope to meet. The concept shows how small and light an Enzo could be if it used all the technologies Ferrari is currently working on; the Mille Chili is around 300kg lighter and nearly a metre shorter. But it will never be made; it is purely a technology showcase. Ferrari claims that almost all the advances have their roots in Formula One, and all are being readied for introduction on different future Ferraris. Component by component, CAR Online exclusively reveals what makes the Mille Chili so important. Click 'Next' to read more.
Surely the Mille Chili isn't a real hybrid?
No. From 2009, F1 cars will be able to regenerate and re-use 60kW of power. The same system will be adapted for road cars from 2012. A battery and electric motor will briefly deliver a slug of torque to the rear wheels to cover the gap when shifting. By then, shift times could be as low as 30 milliseconds; even the current F430 takes 150ms. The result will be shifts as seamless as a twin-clutch, DSG gearbox, which Ferrari is also developing but remains sceptical about. Including an electric drive element would be a huge leap for Ferrari; engineers won’t speculate about developments beyond 2012, but this system could be the precursor to a performance-oriented full hybrid.
Renault Twingo (2007): first official pictures
A GTI for the cash-strapped, then?
Exactly. Renault’s new Twingo range arrives in showrooms in September, topped by the feisty GT with plenty of downsizer appeal. It only packs a 100bhp 1.2-litre engine beneath its stubby bonnet but Renault claims the £9999 turbocharged supermini delivers the performance of a much bigger-engined car games without any economy or emissions penalties. Perfect for budget buyers wanting a lot of flash for their cash.
So plenty of go and tiny fuel bills?
Relatively speaking, yes. The GT’s all-alloy blown unit develops 100bhp at 5500rpm and 107lb ft of torque at 3000rpm – enough to scoot the 980kg Twingo to 60mph in 9.8 seconds and onto a 117mph top speed, while still returning a combined economy figure of 47.8mpg and a 140g/km CO2 rating. That’s a power-parsimony ratio to put it slightly behind rivals like Fiat’s Panda 100 and the Citroen C2 VTS in outright speed but well ahead at the fuel pumps.
Exactly. Renault’s new Twingo range arrives in showrooms in September, topped by the feisty GT with plenty of downsizer appeal. It only packs a 100bhp 1.2-litre engine beneath its stubby bonnet but Renault claims the £9999 turbocharged supermini delivers the performance of a much bigger-engined car games without any economy or emissions penalties. Perfect for budget buyers wanting a lot of flash for their cash.
So plenty of go and tiny fuel bills?
Relatively speaking, yes. The GT’s all-alloy blown unit develops 100bhp at 5500rpm and 107lb ft of torque at 3000rpm – enough to scoot the 980kg Twingo to 60mph in 9.8 seconds and onto a 117mph top speed, while still returning a combined economy figure of 47.8mpg and a 140g/km CO2 rating. That’s a power-parsimony ratio to put it slightly behind rivals like Fiat’s Panda 100 and the Citroen C2 VTS in outright speed but well ahead at the fuel pumps.
Mitsubishi Lancer (2007): first official pictures
Mitsubishi Lancer: the lowdown
With all the recent attention focused on Mitsubishi’s hot shot Evo X, its donor car, the Lancer, has been a bit neglected. Until now. A far cry from the unbreakable but unlovable stock Lancers that went before it, Mitsubishi’s new Jetta basher mixes sleek lines with four-square attitude and a healthy dollop of value for money. When the saloon arrives in March next year, the Lancer will join the family car sales fray, with a choice of three engines and a bewildering array of transmission options. Hit next for the all the details.
So, what’s new for the Lancer?
The Evo X may get all the bells and whistles, but the standard Lancer starts off with a 142bhp, 1.8-litre petrol unit aimed squarely at the fleet sector. There's also the option of a more frugal 2.0-litre diesel engine, which pumps out an equally healthy 138bhp. The five-door will arrive the following August, and with it, an entry-level 1.5-litre MIVEC petrol engine, which will not be available on the heavier four-door becasue of its paltry 109bhp. Mitsubishi has gone all out on the gearbox front. Buyers will have the option of a five-speed manual with the 1.5 and 1.8-litre petrol engines, a six-speed manual with the diesel and a CVT 'box with the 1.8. Mitsubishi's automated manual transmission will be reserved for the Evo only. That's a lot of choice just to change gear.
With all the recent attention focused on Mitsubishi’s hot shot Evo X, its donor car, the Lancer, has been a bit neglected. Until now. A far cry from the unbreakable but unlovable stock Lancers that went before it, Mitsubishi’s new Jetta basher mixes sleek lines with four-square attitude and a healthy dollop of value for money. When the saloon arrives in March next year, the Lancer will join the family car sales fray, with a choice of three engines and a bewildering array of transmission options. Hit next for the all the details.
So, what’s new for the Lancer?
The Evo X may get all the bells and whistles, but the standard Lancer starts off with a 142bhp, 1.8-litre petrol unit aimed squarely at the fleet sector. There's also the option of a more frugal 2.0-litre diesel engine, which pumps out an equally healthy 138bhp. The five-door will arrive the following August, and with it, an entry-level 1.5-litre MIVEC petrol engine, which will not be available on the heavier four-door becasue of its paltry 109bhp. Mitsubishi has gone all out on the gearbox front. Buyers will have the option of a five-speed manual with the 1.5 and 1.8-litre petrol engines, a six-speed manual with the diesel and a CVT 'box with the 1.8. Mitsubishi's automated manual transmission will be reserved for the Evo only. That's a lot of choice just to change gear.
Volkswagen Tiguan unmasked
Volkswagen Tiguan. We’ve seen this before, haven’t we?
We have indeed. The Tiguan was first shown as a concept at the Los Angeles show in November, and it’s now primed and ready for production. CAR Online first spotted VW’s baby SUV, coated in black disguise, hot weather testing back in August. Volkswagen also released ‘official’ spy pictures of the car earlier this month, in an attempt to ward off usual spy snappers. The Tiguan will be revealed at the Frankfurt motor show in September and will arrive in UK showrooms next February, with prices kicking off around £19,000.
What sort of market is the Tiguan aimed at?
VW will take on the burgeoning small SUV market with the Tiguan, so it will be facing up the Freelander, BMW X3 and the Honda CR-V – pretty stiff competition. The Tiguan’s selling point, Volkswagen claims, is its vast array of technology. Despite being based on the Golf, VW reckons it will be a pretty sharp off-road tool, with its familiar 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, chunkier wheels and tyres and beefed-up suspension complete with an aluminium sub-frame up front and a multi-link rear axle. And naturally, there will be plenty of driving aids such as hill-climb assist, EDS adaptation which electronically locks the diff at the sign of a slip and, for when all else fails, an compass. Power will initially be provided by either a 2.0-litre, 138bhp TDI unit, or a 1.4-litre, 148bhp TSI petrol engine. The diesel is likely to be the bigger seller, and will be joined by a more powerful 168bhp TDI engine later in the year, along with two more 2.0-litre petrol engines, developing 170bhp and 200bhp.
We have indeed. The Tiguan was first shown as a concept at the Los Angeles show in November, and it’s now primed and ready for production. CAR Online first spotted VW’s baby SUV, coated in black disguise, hot weather testing back in August. Volkswagen also released ‘official’ spy pictures of the car earlier this month, in an attempt to ward off usual spy snappers. The Tiguan will be revealed at the Frankfurt motor show in September and will arrive in UK showrooms next February, with prices kicking off around £19,000.
What sort of market is the Tiguan aimed at?
VW will take on the burgeoning small SUV market with the Tiguan, so it will be facing up the Freelander, BMW X3 and the Honda CR-V – pretty stiff competition. The Tiguan’s selling point, Volkswagen claims, is its vast array of technology. Despite being based on the Golf, VW reckons it will be a pretty sharp off-road tool, with its familiar 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, chunkier wheels and tyres and beefed-up suspension complete with an aluminium sub-frame up front and a multi-link rear axle. And naturally, there will be plenty of driving aids such as hill-climb assist, EDS adaptation which electronically locks the diff at the sign of a slip and, for when all else fails, an compass. Power will initially be provided by either a 2.0-litre, 138bhp TDI unit, or a 1.4-litre, 148bhp TSI petrol engine. The diesel is likely to be the bigger seller, and will be joined by a more powerful 168bhp TDI engine later in the year, along with two more 2.0-litre petrol engines, developing 170bhp and 200bhp.
Thứ Năm, 1 tháng 3, 2012
Mini E Racer (2010) takes on the Nurburgring
In these days of 7min laps, rounding the Nurburgring in 10min hardly classes as electric. Unless you’re in a Mini E. A battery-powered baby BMW driven by ex-DTM racer Thomas Jäger turned in a 9m52 lap, hitting a heady – but presumably near silent – 116mph on the way. That’s its top speed of course, not a lap average.
Far from standard, the green Mini E in question featured a lighter body, a roll cage and uprated brakes, tyres and suspension. No need to rip out the back seats – there aren’t any in the Mini E because the cabin is stuffed full of the 5088 lithium ion battery cells needed to power the 201bhp electric motor.
A silent race car: the new electric Mini E Racer
‘I’ve driven this circuit many times, but never in such an extraordinary car,’ Jäger said. ‘The power of the electric motor has an incredible effect, as you can access its full reserves of torque at all times. Another element of this fascinating experience is the lack of noise from the drivetrain. All in all, that was certainly the cleanest and quietest race lap I’ve ever driven.’
It’s all just a publicity stunt designed to prove that electric cars can be about more than just urban transport. But since the Mini E can only do around 100 miles in normal driving conditions it’s unlikely to be competing in the Nurburgring 24-hour race any time soon.
Far from standard, the green Mini E in question featured a lighter body, a roll cage and uprated brakes, tyres and suspension. No need to rip out the back seats – there aren’t any in the Mini E because the cabin is stuffed full of the 5088 lithium ion battery cells needed to power the 201bhp electric motor.
A silent race car: the new electric Mini E Racer
‘I’ve driven this circuit many times, but never in such an extraordinary car,’ Jäger said. ‘The power of the electric motor has an incredible effect, as you can access its full reserves of torque at all times. Another element of this fascinating experience is the lack of noise from the drivetrain. All in all, that was certainly the cleanest and quietest race lap I’ve ever driven.’
It’s all just a publicity stunt designed to prove that electric cars can be about more than just urban transport. But since the Mini E can only do around 100 miles in normal driving conditions it’s unlikely to be competing in the Nurburgring 24-hour race any time soon.
Audi A8 W12 LWB (2010): the first official photos
Audi today announced the new long-wheelbase A8 L. Due to be unveiled at the 2010 Beijing motor show, the stretched Audi A8 will be popular with the chauffeur crowd and the extra 130mm in the wheelbase liberates oodles of space for back-seat loungers, judging by these first official photos.
The new A8 L now tops 5267mm in length and Audi points out that makes it longer and wider than any of its LWB rivals.
The new W12 spec Audi A8
It's excess all areas with the new A8 L – Audi's previewed it with the group's W12 petrol engine. It's now 6.3 litres in capacity, fitted with FSI direct injection and develops 493bhp and 461lb ft. Enough for 155mph and 0-62mph in 4.9sec.
The previous 6.0-litre W12 was behind in every area: 443bhp and 12% thirstier (the new A8 L W12 averages 21mpg). Why does VW persist with this idiosyncratic layout? It says the W12 is more compact than a similar capacity V8, thanks to the four rows of three cylinders with a 15deg bank.
How can I spot the W12 when it muscles past me with its scowling LED face?
The W12 is distinguished by a black-gloss finish to the single-frame, goatee-beard grille, chromed door mirrors and air inlets and new bespoke exhaust trims.
Other A8 toys are present and correct: optional LED headlamps are the world's first all-diode front lights and A8 L can now order rear seats that move in every which way and a full-length console which houses a fold-out table and even a fridge.
And check out the massaging services on offer – 10 air pockets inflate and pummel away the aches and strains of hiring and firing for busy executives, and even the footrest is electrically operated.
The new A8 L now tops 5267mm in length and Audi points out that makes it longer and wider than any of its LWB rivals.
The new W12 spec Audi A8
It's excess all areas with the new A8 L – Audi's previewed it with the group's W12 petrol engine. It's now 6.3 litres in capacity, fitted with FSI direct injection and develops 493bhp and 461lb ft. Enough for 155mph and 0-62mph in 4.9sec.
The previous 6.0-litre W12 was behind in every area: 443bhp and 12% thirstier (the new A8 L W12 averages 21mpg). Why does VW persist with this idiosyncratic layout? It says the W12 is more compact than a similar capacity V8, thanks to the four rows of three cylinders with a 15deg bank.
How can I spot the W12 when it muscles past me with its scowling LED face?
The W12 is distinguished by a black-gloss finish to the single-frame, goatee-beard grille, chromed door mirrors and air inlets and new bespoke exhaust trims.
Other A8 toys are present and correct: optional LED headlamps are the world's first all-diode front lights and A8 L can now order rear seats that move in every which way and a full-length console which houses a fold-out table and even a fridge.
And check out the massaging services on offer – 10 air pockets inflate and pummel away the aches and strains of hiring and firing for busy executives, and even the footrest is electrically operated.
Citröen Metropolis concept car (2010) first pictures
Citröen is using this week’s 2010 Shanghai motor show to give a sneak view of how a new Citröen limo could look. The press statement says the Metropolis concept ‘pays homage to China’s extraordinary development’ but just how this Citröen forces millions of people to live in poverty with no access to an uncensored media isn’t yet clear.
A massive 5.3m long (longer than a stretched 7-series) but only 1.4m high, the four-door coupe’s styling has echoes of Citröen’s incredible GT super cars games concept of 2008 and was developed by Citröen’s Shanghai-based design team. China’s car market is phenomenally lucrative and rich Chinese are hungry for luxury saloons so the Metropolis is likely to resurface as a Chinese-market limo rather than point to the next C6.
A Citröen hybrid limo
To ensure occupants get a level of ride quality worthy of a limo it’s fitted with Hydractive suspension; to keep their conscience clean it’s fitted with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
At low speeds it operates in fully electric mode and has up to 95bhp at its disposal. But out of town a 272bhp 2.0-litre V6 chimes in. Combine the two and you’ve got 460bhp and 317lb ft of overtaking muscle available yet the Metropolis emits just 70g/km of CO2. Details are vague, but it sounds like the petrol engine powers the front wheels while the rears are turned by the electric motor.
According to Citröen it’s just a concept at this stage, but expect some of the design cues plus the hybrid technology to make it onto future Citröens.
A massive 5.3m long (longer than a stretched 7-series) but only 1.4m high, the four-door coupe’s styling has echoes of Citröen’s incredible GT super cars games concept of 2008 and was developed by Citröen’s Shanghai-based design team. China’s car market is phenomenally lucrative and rich Chinese are hungry for luxury saloons so the Metropolis is likely to resurface as a Chinese-market limo rather than point to the next C6.
A Citröen hybrid limo
To ensure occupants get a level of ride quality worthy of a limo it’s fitted with Hydractive suspension; to keep their conscience clean it’s fitted with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
At low speeds it operates in fully electric mode and has up to 95bhp at its disposal. But out of town a 272bhp 2.0-litre V6 chimes in. Combine the two and you’ve got 460bhp and 317lb ft of overtaking muscle available yet the Metropolis emits just 70g/km of CO2. Details are vague, but it sounds like the petrol engine powers the front wheels while the rears are turned by the electric motor.
According to Citröen it’s just a concept at this stage, but expect some of the design cues plus the hybrid technology to make it onto future Citröens.
Seat Alhambra (2010): Spain's new full size MPV
Seat has whisked the covers off its rebodied VW Sharan: the new 2010-spec Seat Alhambra. Like its creaking predecessor, it's a seven-seater MPV based on Volkswagen group underpinnings and is bound for a life of family functionality and taxi airport runs.
Sliding doors figure this time round to give the Sharan a dose of car park practicality. A single wheelbase will be offered – at 4850mm it's long enough for seven seats (should you choose the maximum option) but still offer a slug of luggage space out back. That's 22cm longer than the previous Seat Alhambra.
So it's practicality galore in the new Alhambra?
It seems so. The sliding doors can be specced with electric operation; the five rear seats fold flat into the floor at the tug of a lever; and you can select your boot size from 885 litres in five-seater trim to an echoing 2297 litres with both rows of rear seats stowed. You can even order built-in child seats.
Looks a bit like a Sharan with a blindfold!
The Alhambra is naturally mostly Sharan, with just a few lighting, grille and badging accessories to distinguish the Spanish MPV from its German brethren. It's hardly been a problem on previous badge-engineered cars and while the new 2010 Alhambra is unlikely to set pulses racing around these parts, it's certainly a neat enough design.
A slew of different engines is available this time round. A 148bhp TSI petrol engine serves petrol lovers while derv fans can pick a TDI engine in 138bhp or 168bhp outputs. All feature stop-start.
The most economical 2.0 TDI averages 51mpg and emits 143g/km of CO2 – not bad for such a big car.
Seat Alhambra: the 2010 options fetish
It's a new-era VW Group product, so naturally toys galore are available: DSG twin-clutch transmissions, panoramic glass sunroofs, gizmos to park the car itself and three-zone climate control.
The new Alhambra will be built in Portugal and goes on UK sale in autumn 2010.
Sliding doors figure this time round to give the Sharan a dose of car park practicality. A single wheelbase will be offered – at 4850mm it's long enough for seven seats (should you choose the maximum option) but still offer a slug of luggage space out back. That's 22cm longer than the previous Seat Alhambra.
So it's practicality galore in the new Alhambra?
It seems so. The sliding doors can be specced with electric operation; the five rear seats fold flat into the floor at the tug of a lever; and you can select your boot size from 885 litres in five-seater trim to an echoing 2297 litres with both rows of rear seats stowed. You can even order built-in child seats.
Looks a bit like a Sharan with a blindfold!
The Alhambra is naturally mostly Sharan, with just a few lighting, grille and badging accessories to distinguish the Spanish MPV from its German brethren. It's hardly been a problem on previous badge-engineered cars and while the new 2010 Alhambra is unlikely to set pulses racing around these parts, it's certainly a neat enough design.
A slew of different engines is available this time round. A 148bhp TSI petrol engine serves petrol lovers while derv fans can pick a TDI engine in 138bhp or 168bhp outputs. All feature stop-start.
The most economical 2.0 TDI averages 51mpg and emits 143g/km of CO2 – not bad for such a big car.
Seat Alhambra: the 2010 options fetish
It's a new-era VW Group product, so naturally toys galore are available: DSG twin-clutch transmissions, panoramic glass sunroofs, gizmos to park the car itself and three-zone climate control.
The new Alhambra will be built in Portugal and goes on UK sale in autumn 2010.
Mercedes Shooting Break concept (2010)
Mercedes is this week – volcanic ash cloud notwithstanding – due to unveil this new Shooting Break concept car at the 2010 Beijing auto show. It's a barely disguised show version of a sporting CLS estate. Think a Mercedes wagon for picky types who find the E-class Estate a tad too sensible.
Stuttgart is being unusually candid about this car's provenance, sprinkling the press kit with hints that this will join the next CLS family as a sporty, crossover coupé-estate. There's even an internal codename – X218 – hinting at its production intent. It seems to us that this Shooting Break concept is an altogether far more attractive offering than the 5-series Gran Turismo which fills a similar nano-niche in rival BMW's range.
Mercedes-Benz Shooting Break concept car (2010): the lowdown
The CLS 'coupaloon' was conceived as Merc's 'Jag fighter' and has been a success story since launch in 2004. Now it's time to replace the CLS and this is our first look at the new styling direction planned for the 2011 CLS family – albeit in 20in-shod exaggerated show car form.
If this shooting break looks familiar, that's because it follows in the footsteps of the 2008 Paris show car, the Fascination concept. Look out in particular at the body surfacing and the new-look nose – the floating grille appears separate from the bonnet, and those headlamps are entirely LED (all 71 of them).
'The Shooting Break concept car is based on the great tradition of a stylish, cultivated sportiness which has always characterised the great Mercedes coupés, and it takes this unique legacy an exciting step further,' gushed Professor Gorden Wagener, chief designer at Mercedes-Benz. 'At the same time it points the way towards the future design idiom of Mercedes-Benz.'
Any technical innovations on the new Merc Shooting Break?
For sure. This is the world's first car with LED front headlamps that are fully active, swivelling around corners and dipping the range in a bespoke fashion depending on your speed and road type. It's also the first time we've seen Merc's latest 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine: a 60deg V6 with direct-injection, 302bhp and 273lb ft, and a new lean-burn mode said to reduce emissions and rate of fuel guzzle.
Inside the CLS crossover has a full-length console to emphasise that this is a four-seater only. Being a concept car, the boot is lined with dark-stained oak – so you might be plucking splinters out of Fido's feet.
Stuttgart is being unusually candid about this car's provenance, sprinkling the press kit with hints that this will join the next CLS family as a sporty, crossover coupé-estate. There's even an internal codename – X218 – hinting at its production intent. It seems to us that this Shooting Break concept is an altogether far more attractive offering than the 5-series Gran Turismo which fills a similar nano-niche in rival BMW's range.
Mercedes-Benz Shooting Break concept car (2010): the lowdown
The CLS 'coupaloon' was conceived as Merc's 'Jag fighter' and has been a success story since launch in 2004. Now it's time to replace the CLS and this is our first look at the new styling direction planned for the 2011 CLS family – albeit in 20in-shod exaggerated show car form.
If this shooting break looks familiar, that's because it follows in the footsteps of the 2008 Paris show car, the Fascination concept. Look out in particular at the body surfacing and the new-look nose – the floating grille appears separate from the bonnet, and those headlamps are entirely LED (all 71 of them).
'The Shooting Break concept car is based on the great tradition of a stylish, cultivated sportiness which has always characterised the great Mercedes coupés, and it takes this unique legacy an exciting step further,' gushed Professor Gorden Wagener, chief designer at Mercedes-Benz. 'At the same time it points the way towards the future design idiom of Mercedes-Benz.'
Any technical innovations on the new Merc Shooting Break?
For sure. This is the world's first car with LED front headlamps that are fully active, swivelling around corners and dipping the range in a bespoke fashion depending on your speed and road type. It's also the first time we've seen Merc's latest 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine: a 60deg V6 with direct-injection, 302bhp and 273lb ft, and a new lean-burn mode said to reduce emissions and rate of fuel guzzle.
Inside the CLS crossover has a full-length console to emphasise that this is a four-seater only. Being a concept car, the boot is lined with dark-stained oak – so you might be plucking splinters out of Fido's feet.
VW Phaeton – the 2010 facelift is unveiled at Beijing
Pay attention at the back. This is the new, facelifted VW Phaeton, unveiled today at the 2010 Beijing motor show.
You’re pulling our leg! This can’t be a new Phaeton…
It most certainly is. The design refresh may be subtle, but there are a few small cosmetic changes to accompany a flurry of minor technical upgrades.
You’ll (just about) spot the new 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton by its bi-xenon headlamps and LED running lights wrapped around a minutely resculpted grille with two horizontal bars. Whether that lends the car ‘a more imposing stance’ as VW claims or not remains to be seen.
The front wings and bonnet are reprofiled too and the bumper now gets chrome strips and LED foglights, while the alloys are new and rear bumper gently reshaped. Oh yes.
What’s new inside the ‘new’ Phaeton?
We’re deep into minor facelift territory here, in case you hadn’t guessed. The steering wheel is new, Google maps are now plumbed into the sat-nav and – this is how you can tell how little has changed on the Phaeton – there is apparently 3.2 kilometres of cabling to connect all the car’s electro gizmos. Blimey.
The revised 2010 VW Phaeton goes on UK sale in August 2010 in two guises: a 237bhp 3.0 TDI V6 or the 444bhp 6.0-litre W12 petrol. Choose between standard and LWB, the latter with a stretch of 120mm in the wheelbase.
You’re pulling our leg! This can’t be a new Phaeton…
It most certainly is. The design refresh may be subtle, but there are a few small cosmetic changes to accompany a flurry of minor technical upgrades.
You’ll (just about) spot the new 2010 Volkswagen Phaeton by its bi-xenon headlamps and LED running lights wrapped around a minutely resculpted grille with two horizontal bars. Whether that lends the car ‘a more imposing stance’ as VW claims or not remains to be seen.
The front wings and bonnet are reprofiled too and the bumper now gets chrome strips and LED foglights, while the alloys are new and rear bumper gently reshaped. Oh yes.
What’s new inside the ‘new’ Phaeton?
We’re deep into minor facelift territory here, in case you hadn’t guessed. The steering wheel is new, Google maps are now plumbed into the sat-nav and – this is how you can tell how little has changed on the Phaeton – there is apparently 3.2 kilometres of cabling to connect all the car’s electro gizmos. Blimey.
The revised 2010 VW Phaeton goes on UK sale in August 2010 in two guises: a 237bhp 3.0 TDI V6 or the 444bhp 6.0-litre W12 petrol. Choose between standard and LWB, the latter with a stretch of 120mm in the wheelbase.
Volvo C30 Performance Concept Prototype (2010) first pictures
No, we hadn't heard of the Gothenburg motor show, either. But appropriately enough, given the Volvo sale to China's Geely, it overlaps perfectly with the 2010 Beijing auto show – and was the launchpad of the homegrown Volvo C30 Performance Car Prototype.
This Volvo concept car was produced by Polestar Performance, the people behind the company's Swedish Touring Car team. The C30 PCP produces a claimed 400bhp from its blown 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine. That's achieved with a larger intercooler, KKK turbo, new pistons and conrods.
A 400 horsepower C30? Fighting talk!
Indeed. Keeping all that 376lb ft twist in check is a four-wheel drive system, using Volvo's proven Haldex system. There's a Quaife mechanical diff too to prevente the front driveshafts from scrabbling into oblivion.
The chassis is tuned accordingly. Ohlins shocks are fitted, a quicker steering rack and Brembo discs with six-pot callipers up front, four-pots at the back. It's a touring car for the road, really, sitting four-square on its 19in rims and Pirelli race rubber.
The race car image is enhanced by four-point harnesses, race buckets and an aero makeover inspired by the Volvo STCC race car. Sarah-Jayne Harrison, keeper of CAR's long-term test C30 1.6 DRIVe – eat your heart out!
This Volvo concept car was produced by Polestar Performance, the people behind the company's Swedish Touring Car team. The C30 PCP produces a claimed 400bhp from its blown 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine. That's achieved with a larger intercooler, KKK turbo, new pistons and conrods.
A 400 horsepower C30? Fighting talk!
Indeed. Keeping all that 376lb ft twist in check is a four-wheel drive system, using Volvo's proven Haldex system. There's a Quaife mechanical diff too to prevente the front driveshafts from scrabbling into oblivion.
The chassis is tuned accordingly. Ohlins shocks are fitted, a quicker steering rack and Brembo discs with six-pot callipers up front, four-pots at the back. It's a touring car for the road, really, sitting four-square on its 19in rims and Pirelli race rubber.
The race car image is enhanced by four-point harnesses, race buckets and an aero makeover inspired by the Volvo STCC race car. Sarah-Jayne Harrison, keeper of CAR's long-term test C30 1.6 DRIVe – eat your heart out!
Chevrolet Volt MPV5 (2010) – it's the real Orlando
This is the new Chevrolet Volt MPV5 concept car – shown off at the 2010 Beijing auto show this week. It's also a thinly veiled look at next year's crossover MPV to move Chevy into more family focused territories.
But the Volt MPV5 looks just like the Orlando concept car!
Good spot. The Orlando show car was shown at the Paris 2008 expo and this is, bar a few show-off details, the production iteration. The Volt MPV5, as its name suggests, is the first brand extension of the Volt plug-in hybrid that's bound for showrooms in 2011. This one's taller, bigger and more practical; Chevy calls it a crossover, but it's closer in spirit to a five-seat MPV than a mud-plugger.
The Volt MPV5 concept uses the same Voltec hardware as the Volt family car: there's a range-extending hybrid system, whose petrol engine is only ever used to charge the 16kWh lithium-ion battery to drive the electric motors. A zero-emissions EV range of 30 miles is claimed (double the daily average urban commute in China) and when the batteries are nearly flat a 1.4-litre petrol engine kicks in to charge up and provide a further 300-mile electric range.
The production Orlando car will use GM's global Delta 2 architecture, as seen in the Cruze and Astra, and a seven-seat option is expected to feature as on the original concept car. See the real thing at the September 2010 Paris motor show, with UK sales in March 2011.
So the Chevy MPV5 isn't just pie in the sky?
Nope. The designers based at GM's studios in the US and Australia say this is close to production. Strip away those 19in wheels, and the rest of the car is stock. There's a 2760mm wheelbase (up 15mm over the donor Volt) and it's 181mm longer, 73mm wider and 182mm taller too to liberate more cabin space.
Although only a five-seater in this MPV5 iteration, the second row of pews tumble flat to make a 1764 litre boot. With all the seats in place, the boot stands at an impressive 864 litres. Expect the choice of five- or seven-seater specs in production guise.
'The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles, from a compact sedan like the Volt to a crossover like the Volt MPV5 concept,' said Doug Parks, Global Vehicle Line Executive and Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicles at GM.
That's one helluva job title. Almost as big as the mountain GM has to climb to persuade punters to pay the premium for a plug-in range extender...
But the Volt MPV5 looks just like the Orlando concept car!
Good spot. The Orlando show car was shown at the Paris 2008 expo and this is, bar a few show-off details, the production iteration. The Volt MPV5, as its name suggests, is the first brand extension of the Volt plug-in hybrid that's bound for showrooms in 2011. This one's taller, bigger and more practical; Chevy calls it a crossover, but it's closer in spirit to a five-seat MPV than a mud-plugger.
The Volt MPV5 concept uses the same Voltec hardware as the Volt family car: there's a range-extending hybrid system, whose petrol engine is only ever used to charge the 16kWh lithium-ion battery to drive the electric motors. A zero-emissions EV range of 30 miles is claimed (double the daily average urban commute in China) and when the batteries are nearly flat a 1.4-litre petrol engine kicks in to charge up and provide a further 300-mile electric range.
The production Orlando car will use GM's global Delta 2 architecture, as seen in the Cruze and Astra, and a seven-seat option is expected to feature as on the original concept car. See the real thing at the September 2010 Paris motor show, with UK sales in March 2011.
So the Chevy MPV5 isn't just pie in the sky?
Nope. The designers based at GM's studios in the US and Australia say this is close to production. Strip away those 19in wheels, and the rest of the car is stock. There's a 2760mm wheelbase (up 15mm over the donor Volt) and it's 181mm longer, 73mm wider and 182mm taller too to liberate more cabin space.
Although only a five-seater in this MPV5 iteration, the second row of pews tumble flat to make a 1764 litre boot. With all the seats in place, the boot stands at an impressive 864 litres. Expect the choice of five- or seven-seater specs in production guise.
'The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles, from a compact sedan like the Volt to a crossover like the Volt MPV5 concept,' said Doug Parks, Global Vehicle Line Executive and Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicles at GM.
That's one helluva job title. Almost as big as the mountain GM has to climb to persuade punters to pay the premium for a plug-in range extender...
BMW Concept Gran Coupé concept (2010) first news
BMW today showed off the Concept Gran Coupé show car games at the 2010 Beijing auto show. It's a near-production version of 2007's Concept CS show car and a good nudge at a new type of BMW due in the next couple of years. Yes, a four-door 6-series is coming.
Hmm. Looks like a Mercedes CLS by BMW!
Exactly. The 2010 Concept Gran Coupé previews the four-door BMW 6-series coming in 2012. BMW plans to launch a rival to the successful Merc CLS and the forthcoming Audi A7 – in a bid to swell 6-series sales from their current total of 38,000 in coupé and convertible guise.
The Gran Coupé is being shown in Beijing alongside a production long-wheelbase 5-series for the stretchalot Chinese market. But don't assume that's the bread and butter car and the concept all pie-in-the-sky dreaming. The blurb from Munich even admits 'the aspiration of the BMW brand to build four-door high-performance coupés with the sportiest proportions and the most elegant design.'
Yes, the four-door 6-series will look almost exactly like the Gran Coupé show car.
It does look very production realistic...
Indeed it does. Stretching to nearly 5m long, the Gran Coupé is a low-slung 1400mm tall and, like the CS show car, mixes coupé swoops with saloon volumes. For reference, that's 10cm lower than a 5- or 7-series sedan.
Of special note is the new front end, with the latest iteration of the BMW kidney grille in shark nose format. Those four doors are frameless too.
BMW 6-series saloon: the tech story
Instead of a top-end aluminium-skinned sports saloon, the CS concept has transformed into a conventional steel bodied 6-series family member. That means resolutely conventional powertrains, with a mix of petrol and diesel engines from the 5/6/7-series clan, eight-speed transmissions and – potentially – hybrid versions.
The 6-series saloon will stretch from a 625i (2.0-litre twin-turbo four) all the way up to a scorching M6 (575bhp twin-turbo V8). It's all change in Munich's product plan.
Hmm. Looks like a Mercedes CLS by BMW!
Exactly. The 2010 Concept Gran Coupé previews the four-door BMW 6-series coming in 2012. BMW plans to launch a rival to the successful Merc CLS and the forthcoming Audi A7 – in a bid to swell 6-series sales from their current total of 38,000 in coupé and convertible guise.
The Gran Coupé is being shown in Beijing alongside a production long-wheelbase 5-series for the stretchalot Chinese market. But don't assume that's the bread and butter car and the concept all pie-in-the-sky dreaming. The blurb from Munich even admits 'the aspiration of the BMW brand to build four-door high-performance coupés with the sportiest proportions and the most elegant design.'
Yes, the four-door 6-series will look almost exactly like the Gran Coupé show car.
It does look very production realistic...
Indeed it does. Stretching to nearly 5m long, the Gran Coupé is a low-slung 1400mm tall and, like the CS show car, mixes coupé swoops with saloon volumes. For reference, that's 10cm lower than a 5- or 7-series sedan.
Of special note is the new front end, with the latest iteration of the BMW kidney grille in shark nose format. Those four doors are frameless too.
BMW 6-series saloon: the tech story
Instead of a top-end aluminium-skinned sports saloon, the CS concept has transformed into a conventional steel bodied 6-series family member. That means resolutely conventional powertrains, with a mix of petrol and diesel engines from the 5/6/7-series clan, eight-speed transmissions and – potentially – hybrid versions.
The 6-series saloon will stretch from a 625i (2.0-litre twin-turbo four) all the way up to a scorching M6 (575bhp twin-turbo V8). It's all change in Munich's product plan.
Jaguar XF – the 2010 police version for Plod
This is the first police-spec Jaguar XF – bound to an orderly life of patrolling the motorways around the Midlands area encircling Jaguar's HQ. The local constabulary has bought seven 271bhp 3.0-litre Diesel S models in police trim.
What's changed to make the XF a police car?
Not much out of the ordinary. It's much easier to spot than a demarked police car, with its roof bar, LED flashers in the grille and refletive decals galore.
It's ironic that Jags used to be the getaway vehicle of choice in the 50s, 60s and 70s in films of a certain bent; now Jaguar has gone good and supplying Plod himself.
What's changed to make the XF a police car?
Not much out of the ordinary. It's much easier to spot than a demarked police car, with its roof bar, LED flashers in the grille and refletive decals galore.
It's ironic that Jags used to be the getaway vehicle of choice in the 50s, 60s and 70s in films of a certain bent; now Jaguar has gone good and supplying Plod himself.
Đăng ký:
Nhận xét (Atom)