2012 Holden Malibu

Holden’s engineers have commenced local fine-tuning work on the all-new Holden Malibu medium sedan ahead of its launch at the end of 2012.

Specialists from Holden’s Powertrain Engineering team are currently calibrating the Malibu for General Motors’ global markets, as well as for Australia’s unique conditions. The car will be badged as a Chevrolet in almost 100 countries around the world, but the Holden Malibu will get a badge transplant and a chassis tune-up for the home market.

The Malibu will be available with a seven-inch colour touchscreen incorporating Bluetooth audio streaming and will conceal a 15cm-deep bin for storing phones and wireless devices.

The exterior is fitted with LED taillights and the alloy wheel selection will range from 17 to 19 inches.

The Malibu is being calibrated at Holden’s Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria and is also being evaluated on public roads. It has been pictured at the coastal resort town of Phillip Island.




Press Release

Aussie Engineers Begin Work on All-New Malibu
2011-06-08

Holden's engineering team has been recruited to help fine-tune the stunning new mid-sized Malibu that will go on sale in Australia late next year.

Engineers from Holden's Powertrain Engineering team are currently calibrating the Malibu for GM's global markets, where it will play an important role in the Chevrolet portfolio.

The Malibu is being calibrated at Holden's Lang Lang Proving Ground in Victoria and is also being evaluated on public roads. It has been pictured at the coastal resort town of Phillip Island.

Holden's work forms part of GM's global workshare strategy, which uses the available resources and skills of the company's engineers from around the world to perform development work on future model cars. It will see the team continue to work on Malibu until the end of 2012.

About Holden Malibu
Holden will bring the Malibu nameplate to Australia for the first time in late 2012 with a line-up of fuel efficient and responsive four cylinder engines. Outside Australia, it will be sold under the Chevrolet name in nearly 100 countries around the world.

2011 Geneva Preview: De Tomaso SLS Concept

The model that will relaunch De Tomaso at next week’s Geneva motor show will be this Pininfarina-designed BMW 5-series GT-rivalling luxury crossover concept, dubbed SLS.

This model, which was built as a Sport Luxury Sedan (SLS), was made possible with the support of Italian business man Gianmario Rossignolo. However, fans may be disappointed because even if the car is from Pininfarina, there are several elements that don’t belong to what the public expects from a De Tomaso rebirth.

Even if the name that signs the lines of the car belongs to Pininfarina, there’s more than one element that doesn't actually fit with what the public was expecting from a De Tomaso rebirth. The most striking of all is the fact that the model is officially called a sedan, it is in fact a large crossover (until this official announcement, the model was dubbed as a Sport Luxury Crossover, but for some reason that has changed). That's exactly what fans were NOT expecting.

De Tomaso plans to build two more vehicles on the same architecture with the goal of selling a total of 8,000 units per year. We're hoping to hear more about the marque's future plans after we hit the ground in Geneva.





Press Release

During the next Geneva auto show (March 2011) will be unveiled the new De Tomaso Car.

The new De Tomaso company, Chaired by Mr. Gianmario Rossignolo, will unveil a Pininfarina-designed concept for a premium large crossover, dubbed SLS (Sport Luxury Sedan).

The four-wheel-drive SLS is set to go into production this year using two gasoline engines, a 550-hp V-8 and a 300-hp V-6. It will not be sold as the SLS, but the final name will be revealed during the Geneve press conference (1st March 2011 - 3.30 pm).

Rossignolo plans to build 3,000 units a year of the SLS, as well as 3,000 limousines and 2,000 coupes.

The cars will be built at De Tomaso Automobili S.p.A. plant, a former Pininfarina S.p.A. factory near Turin and in the Livorno factory by the ex-Delphi workers.

De Tomaso's business plan foreseen for a three-model range of aluminum vehicles based on an innovative construction technology called Univis. Univis requires just about 30 dies to build a vehicle.

During a 22-year career with Fiat group, Gianmario Rossignolo was a top marketing executive at the company and CEO of the Italian automaker's Lancia brand from 1977 to 1979.

In December 2009, Rossignolo signed a deal to rent Pininfarina's factory in Grugliasco, in the western outskirts of Turin, one of three Pininfarina plants.

The new De Tomaso company will invest 116 million euros in its rebirth project.

The Grugliasco plan currently employs 900 people and includes a body shop, paint shop and final assembly facility, while in the Livorno one will be employed 150 people.

2011 Vauxhall VXR8

Vauxhall has revealed its new 2011 VXR8. These first official pictures of the VXR8 show an edgier and more aggressive look over the model it replaces. But it's way more expensive, too.

The VXR8 is based on the Holden Commodore, but instead of the hot ClubSport R8 model on which the previous Vauxhall was based, the new model starts with the new E3 GTS just launched in Australia. That means a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 with 425 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque – kept in line by new Magnetic Ride Control and Launch Control systems, driving through a six-speed transmission (automatic or manual) and a mechanical diff – for a 4.9-second sprint to 60 mph and an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph.

Afresh, ‘Shockwave’ grille, LED day running lights and sleek fresh wing-vents mark the fresh auto away by the front, while the rear characteristics afresh ‘Superflow’ rear spoiler, LED taillights and twin deplete tips that mime the shape of the face grille.

Vauxhall VXR8 has also employed the Magnetic Ride Control (MRC) which adapts to road conditions 1000 times per second, together with the Launch Control feature which engages when the driver sets the Electronic Stability Control in Competition Mode. 

2011 Vauxhall VXR8 is priced at at £49 500.




Press Release

REAR-DRIVE, 6.2-LITRE V8, SUB-£50K: IT HAS TO BE THE NEW VXR8!

• New VXR8 hits UK dealers next March, based on higher-spec GTS model
• Re-designed exterior and new interior with full leather trim as standard
• Magnetic Ride Control & Launch Control complement 431PS V8 powertrain

Luton – Vauxhall's storming VXR8 model is back with a vengeance, packing heavily revised front- and rear-end styling, a new cabin and a raft of new technology to enhance its appeal to drivers in search of one of the last, great rear-drive V8 super-saloons.

Priced at £49,500 (inc. 20 per cent VAT) and available to order later this month, the new VXR8 is now based on HSV's E3 GTS model, just launched in Australia, the previous VXR8 representing the old version of the lower-spec ClubSport R8. That means it still undercuts full-size super saloons like the Audi RS6, Jaguar XFR and Mercedes E63 AMG by between £13k and £29k, and even performance saloons from the class below, such as the BMW M3 and Mercedes C63 AMG.

A new, 'Shockwave' grille, LED daytime running lights and sleek new wing-vents mark the new car out from the front, while the rear features a new 'Superflow' rear spoiler, LED tail lamps and twin exhaust tips that mimic the shape of the front grille. As you can see from these first official press shots of our Hazard Yellow car, the new VXR8 will never blend into the scenery!

As before, the new VXR8's race-bred chassis uses MacPherson struts/progressive rate coil springs at the front and a multi-link independent set-up at the rear. But for the first time on a VXR8, Vauxhall has employed Magnetic Ride Control (MRC), a suspension system which adapts up to 1000 times a seconds to road conditions and driver inputs. Based on technology used in GM's current Corvette ZR1 supercar, MRC works by sending an electric current through damper units filled with 'soft' magnetic particles. These particles harden as the input reaches its maximum value, providing drivers with exceptional levels of ride, handling and stopping power.

Complementing the new VXR8's MRC is Launch Control, which is engaged when drivers select the ESC's (Electronic Stability Control) Competition Mode. The system dictates the level of torque delivered to the rear wheels for maximum acceleration, according to surface conditions. All the driver has to do is floor the throttle and let the car do the rest. Extensive testing has proved that LC results in acceleration runs no more than 0.1 second apart.

Of course, no VXR8 would be complete without a large-capacity V8, and this latest version doesn't disappoint. The fourth generation 6.2-litre LS3 unit produces 431PS and a massive 550Nm of torque, enough to propel the VXR8 from 0-60mph in 4.9 seconds and on to a governed top speed of 155mph. As before, drive is delivered to the rear axle via either a six-speed manual or auto transmission, working through a mechanical limited slip differential.

Inside, the new VXR8 has undergone a transformation. Full leather trim is now standard, and front occupants are cocooned in special HSV Performance Seats with eight-way adjustability. A new instrument cluster and surround, centre stack and switchgear provide a cleaner and more integrated look, while standard equipment also includes Aux-in/USB inputs, iPod support and Bluetooth with phone book display and touch-screen dialling.

But for drivers who want to engage with their VXR8 like never before, Vauxhall has introduced EDI, or Enhanced Driver Interface. EDI connects with the on-board computer to constantly stream real-time vehicle dynamics and performance to the car's main 5-inch monitor. At the touch of the screen, drivers can access a variety of data such as vehicle G-forces, power and torque and lap times – even the degree to which their VXR8 is drifting. Completing the clever package is the ability for drivers to download data, such as track day performance, and analyse it using the MOTEC i2 software provided.

Befitting its exclusivity, the VXR8 is now available through just six highly specialist VXR dealers in the UK, though a total of 34 VXR outlets will be authorised to maintain the model.

BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800

The Germans at Brabus managed to create a tuning kit for the Mercedes S-Class model, more exactly the S600 version, and they managed to rise the output power to 800 horsepower. Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800 is the name of the newest tuning kit created by the German tuners, a tuning kit that provides better aesthetics and impressive performance worth of a supercar.

The BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 is powered by the same engine on the S600 models, that has received extra displacement up to 6.3-liters. The SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine produces 788 bhp at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available from a low 2,100 rpm, but for technical reasons peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft). All this adds up to extraordinary performance. Acceleration times from 0 to 62 mph of 3.9 seconds and of just 10.3 seconds to 124 mph are as unmatched in this vehicle category as is the electronically limited top speed of 217 mph.

The exterior package includes: larger central air inlet, front spoiler lip, custom-tailored aluminum front fenders, an integrated air vent made from clear-coated carbon fiber and a horizontal brace, a new rear spoiler lip, centrally located reflector and custom cutouts. The interior gets leather in any color you desire, Alcantara and exclusive wood trim sets and of course all the latest technologies.

To ensure that the car can cope with the strains of hiper-speed, Brabus has fitted Monoblock wheels with diameters ranging from 19 to 21 inches, wrapped in either Pirelli or YOKOHAMA tires. The brakes feature 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 380 x 36-mm (15.0 x 1.42 inches) vented and cross-drilled discs in front, and 355 x 28-mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the back, insuring the all important stopping distances from high speed.




Press Release


BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800
The World’s Most Powerful and Fastest Luxury Sedan

BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800: 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) transform the Mercedes S 600 in latest BRABUS specification into the world’s most powerful luxury sedan. But that’s not all: With an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph) the exclusive four-seater also wins the ‘Blue Ribbon’ as the world’s fastest luxury liner. BRABUS rounds out the new high-performance standard with a sporty yet elegant designer suit, custom-tailored wheels with diameters of up to 21 inches, a high-performance brake system and customer-specific interior upgrades including a state-of-the-art “iBusiness” multimedia system with Apple components.

Twelve-cylinder high-capacity engines in the S-Class look back on almost two decades of tradition at BRABUS. Powered by the SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine originally developed for the BRABUS E V12 “one of ten” the automotive luxury class now attains a new level of performance.

Displacement of the V12 engine that normally powers the latest Mercedes 600 models is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 385 cu. in.) The displacement increase is the product of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, precision-balanced piston rods, larger-diameter pistons and corresponding larger cylinder bore. The inner workings of the BRABUS engine are modified further by high-performance camshafts and flow-optimized cylinder heads.

The new air intake was custom-developed to fit in the available space under the hood of the S-Class. The combustion air is routed through a special carbon-fiber system. Also newly developed was the BRABUS Biturbo system with two special high-performance manifolds with integrated turbine housings and high-performance turbochargers. The system also includes four water-to-air intercoolers. The BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with sport catalysts and four exhaust tips with BRABUS-characteristic design optimizes power yield and gives the engine a more dominant exhaust note.

Newly calibrated engine electronics with precision-programmed mapping for injection and ignition ensure exemplary power yield and compliance with strict EURO V emission limits. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner ARAL.

The SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine produces 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available from a low 2,100 rpm. For technical reasons peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission. A BRABUS high-performance limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent is available as an option.

The extraordinary performance figures elevate the BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 to the exalted position of the world’s most powerful and fastest luxury sedan. Acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) of 3.9 seconds and of just 10.3 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) are as unmatched in this vehicle category as is the electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).

To ensure that this level of performance can be enjoyed safely at all times BRABUS also significantly upgrades suspension, brakes and aerodynamics.

These upgrades naturally also include tires capable of handling the speeds this car is capable of. The SV12 R Biturbo 800 can be equipped with BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters ranging from 19 to 21 inches. The largest version features wheels in size 9Jx21 on the front axle and in size 10.5Jx21 in the rear. These wheels are available in four distinct designs: Three-piece forged and high-gloss polished BRABUS Monoblock VI wheels with six double spokes, multi-spoke Monoblock E wheels, Monoblock S wheels with double-spoke design and especially exclusive Monoblock F PLATINUM EDITION forged wheels with cross-spoke design. All wheels are mounted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA tires in sizes 265/30 ZR 21 in front and 295/30 ZR 21 on the rear axle.

To further improve the already excellent driving dynamics of the high-performance luxury sedan BRABUS developed an electronics module for the Active Body Control suspension that lowers the ride height by some 15 millimeters (0.6 inches).

Maximum deceleration is even more important than exceptional acceleration and thus the BRABUS high-performance brake system is part of the high-tech package of the SV12 R Biturbo 800. The brake features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 380 x 36-mm (15.0 x 1.42 inches) vented and cross-drilled discs in front, and 355 x 28-mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the rear axle.

BRABUS ensures extremely high directional stability with a sporty yet elegant designer suit developed in the wind tunnel. The BRABUS front fascia lends the S-Class an even more striking face while its sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. The large central air inlet optimizes cooling of engine and front brakes. Integrated auxiliary headlamps and LED daytime running lights further improve active safety. The BRABUS front spoiler lip is made from clear-coated carbon fiber and attaches to the underside of the BRABUS front fascia. It further optimizes the car’s aerodynamic properties.

For an even more extravagant appearance of the sedan BRABUS offers custom-tailored aluminum front fenders that replace their production counterparts. The exclusive character of these fenders is embodied by an integrated air vent made from clear-coated carbon fiber and a horizontal brace that spans the vent with embossed BRABUS signet and integrated LED lights. The latter are activated just like the ones in the BRABUS side sills via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle.

For optimizing the airflow around the sides of the vehicle the designers sculpted BRABUS sill skirts that feature integrated entrance lights for added utility. They are activated by the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle as are the blue-illuminated BRABUS logos integrated into the scuff plates on both sides of the vehicle.

The BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement concept is rounded out by the BRABUS rear spoiler lip, also available in a clear-coated carbon-fiber version, and the new rear fascia with centrally located reflector and custom cutouts for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system. The underside of the rear fascia also features integrated LED lights which illuminate the ground behind the vehicle. They help avoid any unfortunate missteps into puddles or potholes lurking in the dark.

BRABUS combines this high-performance technical feast with exclusive interior options that suit each customer’s personal taste down to the last detail. These options include fully leather interiors in any color imaginable, Alcantara supplements and exclusive wood trim sets which can be ordered in any desired color thanks to an innovative staining technology.

A particular BRABUS specialty is the creation of state-of-the-art multimedia equipment including the innovative BRABUS “iBusiness” concept, where the BRABUS specialists for the first time have integrated Apple components into the vehicle electronics of the Mercedes S-Class.

Focus EV to use Liquid Cooled Battery

Ford announced September 2 its Focus Electric, due out next year in the U.S., will contain a lithium ion battery pack with a liquid-based thermal management system.

Ford will use for the Focus a lithium-ion battery pack which will use heated and cooled liquid to handle one of the most dreaded things in an EV: overheating batteries. The liquid will be used by the car to keep the heat level to a minimum, hence increasing both the range and life span of the pack.

Ford is still developing the car, but the prototype we drove had a 23 kilowatt-hour lithium ion pack, which makes it about the size of the air-cooled pack in the Nissan Leaf. By using active thermal management, Ford says it will maximize battery life and range and optimize charging by heating, or cooling, the pack to the best temperature before pulling juice from the grid.

The introduction of this type of electronic cooling, will extend the batteries lifespan and also help to gain the maximum performance. By keeping the cells cool the active thermal management will be able to prevent the likelihood of cracks in the electrodes. These cracks can start to effect the batteries power and reduce the charge capabilities. On initial plug-in the management system will run a precondition of the batteries before it allows charging to begin.

The Focus Electric, which will be released in the U.S. late this year and in 2012 in Europe, is one of five electrified vehicles Ford will release over the next three years. The Ford Transit Connect Electric small commercial van arrives in late 2010, followed by two next-generation hybrid electric vehicles, as well as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

Source: Ford




Press Release

FORD USES INNOVATIVE LIQUID-COOLED BATTERY SYSTEM TO HELP FOCUS ELECTRIC OWNERS MAXIMIZE RANGE

• The all-new Ford Focus Electric, which debuts in late 2011 in the U.S. and 2012 in Europe, will be powered by a lithium-ion battery system that utilizes cooled and heated liquid to regulate battery temperature, extend battery life and maximize driving range
  
• The innovative thermal management technology helps the Focus Electric operate efficiently in a range of ambient temperatures
  
• Focus Electric is one of five new electrified vehicles Ford will deliver over the next three years in North America and Europe. The Focus Electric will be built at Ford's retooled Michigan Assembly Plant
  

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 2, 2010 – The all-new Ford Focus Electric, which debuts in the U.S. late next year and in Europe in 2012, will be powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery that utilizes heated and cooled liquid to help maximize battery life and gas-free driving range.

Thermal management of lithium-ion battery systems is critical to the success of all-electric vehicles because extreme temperatures can affect performance, reliability, safety and durability. Ford has chosen an advanced active liquid-cooling and heating system to regulate the temperature of its lithium-ion battery packs, which are designed to operate under a range of ambient conditions.

"All-electric vehicles do not have a conventional engine on board, so it is critical we maximize the performance of the battery under various operating temperatures," said Sherif Marakby, Ford director, Electrification Program and Engineering. "Active liquid systems are more effective than air systems at regulating lithium-ion battery temperature. As a result, the active liquid system on Focus Electric will play a key role in providing our customers with the best performance possible."

The active liquid cooling and heating system also enables the Focus Electric to automatically precondition the battery pack temperature during daily recharging. When the vehicle is plugged in to the power grid, the vehicle system will be able to warm up the battery on cold days and cool it down on hot days.

The Focus Electric will be built at Ford's retooled Michigan Assembly Plant and will be available in late 2011. The vehicle will have an expected range of up to 100 miles and use no gasoline at all.

Battery thermal management in action
While air-cooling methods work well for many of today's smaller car battery systems, the larger, more complex lithium-ion battery technology powering Ford's all-electric vehicles calls for an aggressive thermal management system.

An active liquid system heats or chills a coolant before pumping it through the battery cooling system. This loop regulates temperature throughout the system against external conditions.

On hot days, chilled water absorbs heat from the batteries, dispersing it through a radiator before pumping it through the chiller again. On cold days, heated water warms the batteries, gradually bringing the system's temperature to a level that allows it to efficiently accept charge energy and provide enough discharge power for expected vehicle performance.

"Extreme temperatures impact a battery's life and performance, making it crucial to have an effective cooling and heating system to regulate temperature for these demanding applications," said Anand Sankaran, Ford executive technical leader, Energy Storage and HV Systems.

The liquid cooling system also plays a role in charging the vehicle. When the all-electric Focus is plugged in to recharge, the vehicle control system will automatically precondition the battery, if needed, to the optimal temperature before accepting charge. If the battery is already at the optimal temperature, the system will automatically accept charge and maintain an optimal temperature.

"We are working closely with our technology partners to accelerate the development of our lithium-ion battery systems to help our future EV customers get the most out of their vehicles," Marakby said. "Our goal is to build an electric vehicle that delivers on the quality and performance customers have come to expect from Ford."

Focus Electric is one of five electrified vehicles Ford will release over the next three years. In addition to the Focus Electric, the Ford Transit Connect Electric small commercial van arrives in late 2010, followed by two next-generation hybrid electric vehicles, as well as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in North America in 2012 and Europe in 2013.

Electrified vehicles are one part of Ford's broader strategy to offer a wide range of environmentally friendly, advanced technology solutions to improve fuel economy and lower CO2 emissions affordably for customers around the world.

Porsche Panamera Personalization Program

The North American division of The German carmaker has announced today it will begin offering a new personalization program starting this fall, including a Panamera Turbo Powerkit, a Sport Design Package and 20-inch Panamera Sport Wheels.

The top-rung Panamera Turbo can now be had with a Powerkit package that uses two new turbochargers and revised engine mapping to offer 40 more horsepower and 37 more pound-feet of torque over the standard Turbo, totaling 540 and 553, respectively. What's more, the Powerkit treatment includes Porsche's Sport Chrono Turbo Package, and if the car is driven in Sport Plus mode, torque output is further increased to 590 lb-ft. That's a whole lot of twist. This Holy Grail of Panameras will sprint to 62 miles per hour in just 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 190 mph, yet it still manages to keep the Turbo's EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 15/23 miles per gallon.

The Porsche Panamera Personalization program also includes the Sport Design Package which features widened black air intake grilles, separate side skirts and an exterior color painted front end. The Sport Design Package price is 4,581.50 EUR and the new side skirts can be installed for an additional 969.85 EUR.

The new 20-inch light alloy multi-spoke wheels for the Panamera are 9.5 inches wide on the front axle and 11.5 inches on the rear axle. They are available from Porsche Exclusive in GT silver metallic, black, or in the exterior car color. They also will be available from Porsche Tequipment in GT silver metallic and black.




Press Release

Porsche Announces New Panamera Personalization Program

Available Porsche upgrades include a Panamera Turbo Powerkit, a Sport Design Package and 20-inch Panamera Sport Wheels

ATLANTA – Aug. 17, 2010 – In September Porsche will begin offering a Panamera Turbo Powerkit that increases engine output to 540 horsepower (standard is 500 horsepower). Other personalization upgrades include a Sport Design Package and the new 20-inch Panamera Sport wheels for the Panamera Turbo and the other Porsche V6- and V8-powered Panamera models.

The Panamera Turbo Powerkit features two new turbochargers with titanium aluminum turbines, and engine management has been adapted to provide a further improvement in engine response. Maximum torque rises to 750 Nm (compared to 700 Nm in the standard production Panamera Turbo). If in Sport Plus mode, which is included in the Sport Chrono Turbo Package that is part of the Panamera Turbo Powerkit, torque rises to 800 Nm. This is an increase of 30 Nm over the standard Panamera Turbo fitted with the optional Sport Chrono Turbo Package and in Sport Plus mode.

In Sport Plus mode, the Panamera Turbo accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 3.9 sec – 0.1 sec faster than the production car. Top test track speed is 305 km/h compared with 303 km/h (188 mph) in the standard Panamera Turbo. In line with Porsche Intelligent Performance – more power with less fuel and less emissions – a Panamera Turbo with the Powerkit consumes no more fuel than the 500-horsepower production model. The official EPA fuel economy figures for the Panamera Turbo are 15 mpg city and 23 highway, and like its Panamera siblings the Panamera Turbo is not subject to the gas guzzler tax.

As a Porsche Exclusive option, the Powerkit is available next month for $21,730. Porsche Tequipment will offer the Powerkit as a retrofit upgrade beginning in November 2010.

Porsche also offers its Panamera customers its new Sport Design Package that includes a unique, exterior color painted front fascia with widened black air intake grilles. Other components include separate side skirts and the standard, exterior color rear underbody apron with diffuser and fins. Available in October 2010 as a Porsche Exclusive option or a Porsche Tequipment retrofit upgrade, the Sport Design Package is $4,590. On request, side skirts are available separately for $1,390.

Porsche also now offers the new 20-inch Panamera Sport wheels. The light alloy multi-spoke wheel is 9.5 inches wide on the front axle and 11.5 inches on the rear axle. They are available from Porsche Exclusive in GT silver metallic, black, or in the exterior car color. They also will be available from Porsche Tequipment in GT silver metallic and black.

The Panamera Turbo Powerkit is only available on the Panamera Turbo. The Sport Design Package and the Panamera Sport Wheels are available on all Porsche Panamera models (Panamera, Panamera 4, Panamera S, Panamera 4S and Panamera Turbo). Pricing varies by model.

Since its U.S. introduction in October 2009, the Panamera has received numerous awards and recognition. The Panamera Turbo was named Playboy Magazine's 2010 Car of the Year. Others include an Edmunds Inside Line Editors' Most Wanted Award, inclusion in Edmunds.com's Top Recommended Vehicles list, two Car and Driver Editors Choice Awards (Sports Sedans and Luxury Sedans), inclusion in kbb.com's list of 2010 Top 10 Road Trip Cars, Bloomberg Car of the Year, the Most Inspired Design award in Ward's Auto Interior of the Year competition, About.com Cars Best New Cars of 2010, and NADAguides.com's Car of the Month for January 2010.

2010 Suzuki Bonneville Kizashi

The North American division of Suzuki has just Releases details on a special edition Kizashi model,

Suzuki’s North American division revealed that the Bonneville Kizashi started with a pre-production Kizashi prototype. Last May, construction of the Kizashi racer started with the Holdener/Habrzyk team installing the SCTA-approved roll cage, an aluminum bulkhead in the rear, racing seat, seat harnesses and window net. When it comes to performance, the Bonneville Kizashi is equipped with a new intake manifold, a tuned ‘long tube’ header and forged rods and pistons.

The car is powered by a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine that delivers 500 wheel hp at 7000 rpm and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. It also gets a new intake manifold, a tuned ’long tube’ header, forged rods and pistons, a Turbonetics turbocharger, a new 3.5-inch exhaust, and full synthetic 5W-20 racing oil from Lucas Oil. It’s main target will be to hit a top speed of 200 mph.

The Bonneville Suzuki Kizashi is currently undergoing testing and will hit the salt flats on August 14.


Press Release

BONNEVILLE KIZASHI – SOMETHING GREAT IS RUNNING

• Bonneville Kizashi builds on Suzuki’s winning tradition.

• Boosted powertrain moves sport sedan into new segment – Over 200 mph.

• Modifications void America’s #1 Warranty.

BREA, Calif. (August 9, 2010) – Since its introduction to the press in July of 2009, Suzuki’s Kizashi has been recognized as a midsize sedan with a difference – or two. Boasting a rigid structure, composed platform, suspension tuned on the famed Nurburgring and available all-wheel drive, the Kizashi has enjoyed accolades from both media and consumers; most notably, the Kizashi ranked first in AutoPacific’s 2010 Vehicle Satisfaction survey. And with 185 horsepower from its 2.4 liter DOHC four, the 2010 Kizashi boasts class-leading power in the four-cylinder segment.

Fast forward to August 2010, and Suzuki moves the Kizashi into a category typically reserved for Bonneville streamliners. With extensive modifications supplied by Richard Holdener and Tom Habrzyk of Advanced Product Engineering and with Road & Track’s Sam Mitani behind the wheel, American Suzuki’s first-ever automotive assault on the salt begins on August 14 in Wendover, Utah. There, the Bonneville Kizashi – competing in the Blown Gas Coupe category – will rocket its way toward the 200 mph benchmark and, if successful, into Suzuki’s already remarkable motorsport history.

The Bonneville Kizashi began with a pre-production Kizashi prototype. In May 2010, construction of the Bonneville racer began with interior disassembly, underscoring Kizashi’s initial design premise. “Premium without the premium” is, suddenly, completely without the premium, reflecting a bare metal working environment intended for but one mission. Its upscale appointments removed, the Holdener/Habrzyk team installed the SCTA-approved roll cage, an aluminum bulkhead in the rear, racing seat, seat harnesses and window net.

With the cockpit modifications made, it was time to take a look under the hood and build on, with this Kizashi, the performance tradition rooted in Suzuki’s first win on Mt. Fuji some 55 years ago. The spare motor was disassembled to confirm the stock measurements, while the cylinder head was flowed and ported. The Bonneville Kizashi benefits from a new intake manifold, a tuned ‘long tube’ header and – for high rpm durability – forged rods and pistons. With up to 20 pounds of boost from the Turbonetics turbocharger, the Kizashi’s increased horsepower required air-to-water intercooling (and Snow water/methanol injection) – while its output demands a new ACT Clutch and Pressure Plate. A scattershield is added, the oil pan is welded for a new drain fitting and a new 3.5-inch exhaust is fabricated aft of the turbocharger. Additional protection for the high-boost, high-rpm turbo motor is provided by full synthetic 5W-20 racing oil from Lucas Oil.

The Kizashi platform – and its Nurburgring heritage – is morphed into a salt-specific recipe with new coilovers, steel wheels seam welded, and speed-specific 15x7-inch Goodyear Front Runner® rubber. An air dam keeps the Kizashi’s nose planted, window straps and hood pins ensure the hood and glass stay in place, and a parachute can bring the high speed show to an emergency stop. Finally, a dual fire system provides the extra assurance so important for Mitani, with some 900 boosted horses but only a few feet in front of his now high-speed capsule.

With the build completed at the end of July, the first week of August provides a narrow window for the chassis dyno tune and over-the-road (closed course, professional driver) testing. Then it’s on to Bonneville and the week of speed, beginning Saturday, August 14 and ending on Friday, August 20. If the week goes as planned, and the Kizashi performs as designed, the SCTA will have two new members among its 200 mph ranks: Road & Track’s Sam Mitani and the 2010 Suzuki Bonneville Kizashi .

Technical Specifications – 2010 Bonneville Kizashi

Wheelbase:	106.3 inches
Overall Length:	183.1 inches
Overall Width:	71.7 inches
Engine:	2.4-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine
Horsepower:	500 wheel hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque:	420 lb.-ft. @ 5100 rpm
Transmission, Manual:	Six-speed manual transmission
Brakes:	Front ventilated disc brakes/Rear disc brakes
EPA Fuel Economy Estimates:	EPA test cycle does not include 200 mile-per-hour evaluation

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Price Starts at $16,995

GM announced today(June 3) the prices and detailed the trim levels in which the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will be available starting this September, The USA market version of the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze comes in four different trim levels: LS, LT, Eco and LTZ.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will replace Cobalt as the compact car from General Motors' volume division. Cruze is a 4-door sedan that comes in LS, LT, LTZ, and fuel-economy-oriented Eco trim levels. The LS has a 136-horsepower 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. The LT, LTZ, and Eco use a 138-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine.

A 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission is available on all. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front- and rear-side airbags.

The LS and LT have 16-inch wheels; 17-inch wheels are standard on the LTZ and Eco; and 18-inch wheels are optional on the LT and LTZ. Among the available features are a wireless cell-phone link and navigation system. Cruze Eco models have ultra-low-rolling-resistance tires and other aerodynamic tweaks designed to increase fuel economy. Available on the LT and LTZ is an RS Appearance Package, which includes specific wheels and exterior trim.


The Chevrolet Cruze US price starts at 16,995 USD for the LS model and goes up to 22,695 USD for the top of the range model.
For the Eco trim level, the Chevrolet Cruze US price starts at 18,895 USD. The manufacturer believes the Chevrolet Cruze Eco will offer a 40 miles per gallon fuel economy on the highway. Also for an improved efficiency, the Chevrolet Cruze Eco is fitted with low-rolling resistance tires and an enhanced aerodynamic performance package.


Press Release:

Starting at $16,995, Chevrolet Cruze Offers Midsize-car Presence at Compact-car Price

DETROIT, MI – The all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will begin arriving in U.S. dealerships this September, starting at $16,995, including destination. Priced to compete in the compact-car segment, the Cruze offers more interior room, more miles per gallon in the Eco model, and more standard safety features than any of its competitors.

"We believe the Cruze can redefine the expectations for compact-car owners and shoppers who are new to the segment," said Jim Campbell, U.S. Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing. "For the price of a compact car, Cruze offers the styling, safety features, roominess, amenities, and refinement of a much more expensive car."

The 2011 Cruze will be offered for retail sale in four models:

Cruze LS starting at $16,995, including:

• Standard 1.8L Ecotec engine and six-speed manual transmission
• The most standard safety features in the segment, with 10 air bags, StabiliTrak electronic stability control with rollover sensing, traction control, anti-lock brakes, collapsible pedal system, power rear-door child safety locks
• Standard OnStar, with a six-month subscription including Turn-by-Turn navigation
• Standard convenience features including air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, driver information center, and XM Radio with three month trial subscription

Cruze LT starting at $18,895, including:

• Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
• 16-inch wheels

Cruze Eco starting at $18,895, including:

• Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed manual transmission
• Segment-leading expected 40 miles per gallon highway
• Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with ultra low-rolling resistance tires, and enhanced aerodynamic performance package

Cruze LTZ starting at $22,695, including:

• Standard 1.4L Ecotec turbo and six-speed automatic transmission
• Standard six-way power driver seat, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Standard cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, USB port with audio interface, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, and remote vehicle start
• Standard automatic climate control, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, and ultrasonic rear-parking assist
• 18-inch alloy wheels

Major available options features on Cruze include:

• In-dash navigation system with 40-gigabyte hard drive, enabling pause-and-play radio, downloading of audio CDs, or transferring MP3 files from a USB memory device
• Pioneer Audio system, with nine speakers and 250-watt amplifier
• Heated leather seats
• Ultrasonic rear park assist
• RS Appearance package, including rocker moldings, unique front and rear fascias, front fog lamps, and rear spoiler

"Cruze is a truly global car that leverages Chevrolet's design and engineering capabilities. As a result we can offer customers more standard safety features, more miles per gallon, and more upscale features than our key competitors," Campbell said. "That formula made Cruze a hit overseas, with more than 200,000 customers choosing Cruze since it went on sale in 2009."

Cruze will offer customers more standard equipment and amenities than the competition. "While some of our competitors may have a lower starting price, Cruze wins on value once these competitors are optioned up." said Campbell.

Official:VW Polo Sedan Debuts in Russia

Volkswagen has unveiled the VW Polo Sedan and released a set of official photos with the new model which will be offered with only one engine option and available exclusively for the Russian market.

Power for the 2011 Volkswagen Polo Sedan comes from a 1.6L Otto 4-cylinder engine making 103-hp. The Polo Sedan can be equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic gearbox with sequential shift function. That makes Volkswagen the first automaker to offer Russian customers an up-to-date automatic gearbox in the segment.

Assembly for the VW Polo Sedan will take place at the Kaluga plant in Russia and as far as active safety systems the car will be offered with 2 airbags, head rests and 3-point seat belts for all its passengers plus ABS on the Comfortline trim level and up and ESP and side air bags on the Highline version.   

The Polo sedan is being assembled at VW's Kaluga plant. It will be marketed in Russia in three trim levels: Trendline, Comfortline and Highline.

It will retail in Russia for just a tad over 10,000 euro ($14,600).

Press Release:

World premiere of the Polo Saloon in Moscow

- A first: a Polo specially developed for the Russian market
- Moderate pricing: quality and reliability for a wide circle of customers

Wolfsburg / Moscow, 02 June 2010 – While advance sales began for the Polo produced in Kaluga, Russia, the world premiere took place before 200 high-ranking guests in Moscow today. For the first time in the history of the brand, a vehicle has been developed specially for the Russian market, bearing in mind its specific climate and street conditions.

Frank Wittemann, Head of the Volkswagen Brand in Russia: “The new Saloon extends Volkswagen’s range of vehicles und builds a bridge from our bestsellers in Russia, the Passat and the Jetta, to the small familiy car segment. With it, an even greater number of friends of our brand can choose a vehicle according to their taste and possibilities. The new vehicle complies with the global quality standards of Volkswagen in every respect, while being very attractive in terms of price: The Polo Saloon is being offered at a price from just a bit over 10,000 euros and up.”

The new Saloon is being built on a completely new assembly line at Volkswagen AG’s plant in Kaluga. The Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a new 1.6-litre Otto engine (77 kW / 105 PS). It can be combined with a 5-gear manual gearbox or a 6-gear automatic gearbox with sequential shift function (Tiptronic). Hence Volkswagen is the first automobile manufacturer offering their Russian customers such an up-to-date automatic gearbox in this vehicle class.

A high level of safety is ensured already in the Trendline basic version-two airbags, head rests and three-point seat belts for all five passengers. From Comfortline and up, the Polo is equipped with ABS as standard. In the Highline top version, additional safety systems are integrated that are normally unavailable in this class-for instance: side air-bags and ESP.

The specific demands of Russian drivers and the climate and street conditions in Russia have both been carefully taken into account during the new Saloon’s development: long-term tests were conducted in different climate zones, and the street conditions in the most variegated regions in Russia were examined. The available petrol qualities were tested repeatedly as well. Thus the vehicle has been equipped with an up-to-date and reliable engine that is ideally suited to those operating conditions prevailing in Russia, a galvanised, non-corrosive body and a wheel suspension geared to bad roads. Particularly robust paints were used for the car’s paint job, and the chrome parts are also highly resistant to aggressive agents.