2013 Toyota Avalon teaser

Toyota has released the first teaser image for an “all-new US-designed sedan”, which will debut at the New York Auto Show next week.

The sleek sedan hints at a transition away from the traditional sedan shape in favour of a four-door ‘coupe’ style, with Toyota saying the new car features “an elegant yet athletic look”. The design is reminiscent of the Toyota FCV-R concept that was unveiled at the 2011 Tokyo motor show, suggesting the new sharp-edged theme could become a styling characteristic of Toyota’s future sedans.

Here’s what Toyota had to say about the car: “This global premiere will take place in the Galleria room within the Jacob Javits Center at 10:30 a.m. EDT on April 5, 2012. The sedan's exciting new design features an elegant yet athletic look.”




Press Release

Toyota to Debut a Stunning U.S.-Designed Sedan at the 2012 New York International Auto Show

TORRANCE, Calif., March 27, 2012 - Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. will debut an all-new U.S.-designed sedan at the 2012 New York International Auto Show. This global premiere will take place in the Galleria room within the Jacob Javits Center at 10:30 a.m. EDT on April 5, 2012.

The sedan's exciting new design features an elegant yet athletic look.

Media and the public will have the opportunity to participate in a live-streaming video chat with the designers of the new sedan by submitting questions via Twitter and Facebook with the #ToyotaDesign hashtag. The Toyota Design Live chat is scheduled for 2 p.m. EDT on April 5, 2012 and hosted on http://www.facebook.com/toyota.

Jeep Three Concept Vehicles

Jeep has announced that it will show three concept vehicles at this year's Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah, out of a total of six vehicles from Chrysler Group overall.

The first concept is the Jeep Wrangler Apache. The Wrangler concept features wider fenders, a bull bar with a Warn winch, and a stripe down the left side. Like the concepts Jeep brought last year, the Jeep Wrangler Apache concept will likely have more offroad accessories when it is finally revealed.

The next concept teaser shows the Jeep J-12, which has a front-end design and bed side silhouette reminiscent of 1962-1971 Jeep Gladiator. The Gladiator was a full-size Jeep truck available in rear- or four-wheel-drive forms. If this J-12 concept is a full-size pickup, it could be based on the Ram 1500 chassis and powered by a Hemi V-8 engine. Jeep truck fans at last year’s event were treated to the JK8 Independence concept, which was based on the Wrangler Unlimited. Jeep said it had no plans to put the JK8 into production, but those interested could purchase a JK8 conversion kit.

Another intriguing concept teased by Jeep is the Mighty FC concept that pays tribute to cab-over (also known as Forward Control) Jeeps of the past. While anything is possible, we’re hoping the Mighty FC concept is powered by a Cummins turbodiesel and built off a Ram Heavy Duty chassis.




Press Release

46th Annual Moab Easter Jeep® Safari Vehicle Sneak Peek

March 22, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Jeep® and Mopar have teamed up once again to produce a selection of concept Jeep vehicles for the 46th annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. The Jeep Mighty FC concept, Jeep J-12 concept and the Jeep Wrangler Apache are three of six new vehicles that will be shown to enthusiasts in Moab, March 31 - April 8. Look for more on all of these new vehicles later this month.

Subaru Advanced Tourer Concept

Subaru Advanced Tourer Concept will debut at next month’s Tokyo Motor Show.

Power comes from a 1.6 liter turbo Horizontally-Opposed Subaru Boxer engine mated to the company’s original hybrid system and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) technology.

Energy will be stored using a high-tech lithium ion battery and the car will also feature regenerative braking. Subaru is targeting a 50 percent improvement in fuel economy over its current models.

A single motor system is used for its simple structure and light weight. The system has an Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, which allows all-wheel drive motion using only the motor at start-up and on low-speed drives. When decelerating, the regenerating mechanism uses the motor as a power generator.

Inside, the concept gets wood and polished aluminum surfaces with leather trim and a full glass sunroof. Of particular interest is the large screen fitted into the steering wheel that displays GPS sat-nav directions and has direct access to the Internet.




Press Release


Exhibition Outline of the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011

Tokyo, November 7, 2011 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, announced its presentation at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011. It will focus on "Enjoyment and Peace of Mind" which is the core value provided to the customers through the Subaru automobile experience, the foundation being Subaru's global brand statement "Confidence in Motion".

"Confidence in Motion" is materialized in the concept car "SUBARU ADVANCED TOURER CONCEPT" which
achieved its main goal to become a "Revolutionary Sports Tourer". Also showcased will be the "All-New SUBARU IMPREZA" and the "SUBARU BRZ" - the latter a rear-wheel drive sports car currently under joint development with Toyota Motor Corporation carrying the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. The exhibition will also feature Subaru's original and latest technologies.

A press briefing by President Yasuyuki Yoshinaga is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. on November 30, 2011 at the Subaru booth.

?SUBARU ADVANCED TOURER CONCEPT (Concept car)
1. Concept
Exquisitely balancing the enjoyment of driving with environmental friendliness, the car, under its product concept of "Revolutionary Sports Tourer", embodies Subaru's theme of "Confidence in Motion".

This C-segment class car was developed as a new-generation sports wagon providing both superior driving performance and utility. It features an innovative exterior design not found in conventional wagon models and expert wagon utility Subaru has cultivated over the years.

The well established sports power unit, the Horizontally-Opposed Subaru Boxer engine, is now with direct fuel injection. This highlight mixed with Subaru's downsizing concept and original Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) expertise has enabled Subaru to make considerate progress on its unique Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) technology. An even sportier drivability and advanced environmental friendliness are both attainable in this new concept car.

2. Design and Packaging
< Exterior Design >
• Subaru's brand statement "Confidence in Motion" is portrayed in the outward design as well. The dynamic yet sleek look promises an enthusiastic drive, while the cabin offers all the usability of a C-segment wagon.

• A flowing line on the side surfaces augments the stylish design calling to mind a coupe style car.
< Interior Design >
• In pursuit of Subaru's human-centered philosophy, all passengers are assured a safe and pleasant ride in a comfortable and quality interior.
• An entire roof made of glass adds to the spacious feel. Various textures such as wood and metal are incorporated into the inside layout to produce ample ambiance.
• A large monitor is built into the steering wheel allowing access to maps, television and internet services.

Information will be available at hand to support contemporary lifestyles even in the car.

3. Mechanisms
(1) Next-Generation Power Unit System
- Downsized direct fuel injection turbo engine -
• The downsized direct fuel injection turbo engine is one of the principal technologies that will guide
Subaru's engine strategy in the future. Not only is acceleration quick and smooth with the new-generation Horizontally-Opposed engine, it is environmentally friendly. The direct fuel injection system which injects necessary amounts of fuel into the cylinders at appropriate moments, and a turbo system which efficiently supplies large amounts of air into the cylinders, along with the downsizing of current turbo engine displacements (2,500cc and 2,000cc) to 1,600cc drastically improve combustion efficiency at practical driving-speed range compared to the existing turbo engine.
- High torque compatible Lineartronic (CVT) -
• Lineartronic is Subaru's continuously variable transmission device designed for the new era. It is the world's first longitudinally-mounted chain drive CVT to be utilized in mass-produced AWD passenger cars. For the concept car, the Lineartronic was refined to satisfy the high-power output turbo engine.
- Hybrid system -
• Subaru's original hybrid system has been developed to harmonize with the Symmetrical AWD technology, another one of its specialties, and to further enhance its appeal. A single motor system was employed for its simple structure and light weight.
• This system has an Electric Vehicle (EV) mode which allows AWD motion using only the motor at start-ups and low-speed drives. When decelerating, the regenerating mechanism uses the motor as a power generator.
(2) EyeSight
Subaru's advanced driving assist system EyeSight (Version 2), well received since its release in May 2010, has made further progress. The recognition range of the stereo camera has expanded considerably, both in width and depth.

Length x Width x Height: 4,580 x 1,840 x 1,430mm
Engine type: 1.6 liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel injection turbo engine
Transmission type: High torque compatible Lineartronic
Drive train: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with hybrid system
Battery type: Lithium-ion battery

?SUBARU IMPREZA SPORT (5-door) / IMPREZA G4 (4-door)
(information release date: November 30)
Concept
The product concept is "Redefining Value, Redefining Class". In addition to incorporating the latest model Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine and the newly developed Lineartronic (CVT), every aspect of the basic structure was reviewed and modified. The modifications include the reduction of overall weight, advances in aerodynamics and rolling resistance, etc. Significant progress was made in its environmental friendliness, most of all fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, special attention was paid to the further refinement of fun-to-drive characteristics which is an essential role of the vehicle. Plus, the new IMPREZA offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality feel, without increasing its body size.

Body types: 5-door/4-door
Length x Width x Height (5-door): 4,415 x 1,740 x 1,465mm
Engine types: 1.6/2.0 liter third generation Horizontally-Opposed engine
Transmission type: Lineartronic (CVT)

?SUBARU BRZ
1. Concept
Based on its product concept of "Pure Handling Delight", at its core is the Horizontally-Opposed engine known for its light weight, compactness, and low center of gravity. That combined with Subaru's rear-wheel drive platform, the SUBARU BRZ seeks a new level of lowness in center of gravity, one of the lowest in the world, and offers excellent handling performance. It is a sports car that can provide a pure handling delight experience to anyone behind the wheel.
2. Mechanisms
Founded on the third generation Horizontally-Opposed engine, the SUBARU BRZ carries a new 2.0 liter Horizontally-Opposed 4-cylinder engine which was specially designed to fulfill the desired factors of a sports car.
Specifically, the bore and stroke are set in a square formation of 86 x 86mm and combined with Toyota's direct fuel injection technology (D-4S), thus allowing higher output and more environmental friendliness - the ideal for a new age sports car.

Length x Width x Height: 4,240 x 1,775 x 1,300mm
Wheelbase: 2,570mm
Engine type: 2.0 liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel injection engine
Transmission type: 6MT/E-6AT
Drive train: Rear-wheel drive
Suspension: front - strut
rear - double wishbone
? S206 (information release date: November 24)
Subaru Tecnica International Inc.*, which manages all of Subaru's motorsport activities, put in their years of engineering expertise into the original tune-up of 4-door SUBARU IMPREZA WRX STI. S206 is a STI complete model that has been refined to ultimate maneuverability, stability and handling performance.

List of Exhibits
- SUBARU ADVANCED TOURER CONCEPT (world premiere; concept car)
- SUBARU IMPREZA SPORT / IMPREZA G4 (Japan premiere; information release date - November 30;
display model)
- SUBARU BRZ (world premiere; display model)
- S206 (information release date - November 24; display model)
- SUBARU LEGACY B4 2.5GT EyeSight S Package - Premium Leather Selection (display model)
- SUBARU EXIGA 2.5i spec. B EyeSight (display model)
- SUBARU FORESTER 2.0XS typeS (display model)
- SUBARU LEGACY OUTBACK 2.5i EyeSight EX Edition (production model)
- New generation Boxer engine lineup (technology exhibit)

2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer

markets arrives in Thailand in early 2012, but will be unveiled at the Dubai International Motor Show on November 10.

The 2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer is based on the new Chevrolet Colorado platform. We’re sure what Chevy’s obsession is all of the sudden with Thailand but the region is also the first market to receive the Colorado and 2013 Malibu.

This platform, developed by GM engineers in Brazil, is available in both rear-drive and all-wheel drive variants and can be powered by either gasoline or diesel engines.





Press Release

Chevrolet Announces All-new Global Midsize SUV

DETROIT - Chevrolet will introduce the all-new, 2013 TrailBlazer midsize SUV in global markets, beginning in Thailand, in early 2012. Built on a new global midsize platform developed by GM do Brasil, the TrailBlazer will combine the hauling and towing capability of an SUV with the ride comfort and efficiency of a crossover. The new TrailBlazer will be unveiled at Dubai International Motor Show, Nov. 10-14.

Frankfurt Preview: Mercedes C-Class DTM Coupe【Video】

Mercedes has unveiled the C-Class DTM Coupe at the Frankfurt Motor Show on Tuesday September 13. This car is interesting for two reasons: 1) It's painted in the liquid-silver Mercedes/McLaren F1 color. 2) DTM is coming to America in 2013.

The motorsport beast will be introduced to the public by Formula One drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, but it seems that we have received something that should quench our thirst meanwhile.

Based on the new C-Class Coupe, the car will continue to be an excellent branding exercise for Mercedes-Benz, while sharing nothing but its roof with the production car.


Press Release

Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg to reveal new 2012 DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé at Frankfurt Motor Show

Stuttgart: MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg will unveil the new DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé for the 2012 season during the Frankfurt International Motor Show, at 12.00 CET on Tuesday 13 September 2011. Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management at Daimler AG, and Norbert Haug, Vice-President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, will also be present on the Mercedes-Benz stand in the IAA's Festival Hall, Frankfurt.

Michael Schumacher: "The IAA, the world's most important show for the automotive industry, is the perfect setting for the première of our new 2012 DTM car."

Nico Rosberg: "I can't wait to see how the new DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé has turned out, which is why I'm so pleased to be there as we show it off to the world for the first time. It's going to be a moment to remember."

Gary Paffett: "I was at the film and photo shoot for the new AMG Mercedes C-Coupé recently and was seriously impressed by my ‘company car' for next season. I can't wait to begin testing very soon."

Norbert Haug: "This new-generation vehicle, based on our Mercedes-Benz C- Coupé, will mark the introduction of an even more spectacular racing car from the start of 2012. I am certain that the spectators will get their money's worth from the three-way fight between Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the DTM next year."

2013 Cadillac ATS teased

Cadillac has released the first teaser image of the 2013 ATS, which was designed to take on the BMW 3 Series. With the CTS having grown in size to more of a 5 Series rival, the ATS is expected to become the volume seller for Cadillac and help grow the brand considerably.

The ATS will begin next summer and built at the Lansing Grand River assembly plant. The company added that the plant received a $190 million investment and 600 jobs for the new ATS. The car is expected to feature a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine as well as a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with 380 hp.

The car is expected to ride on the rear-wheel Alpha platform and feature a turbocharged four-cylinder engine as well as a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with 380 hp (283 kW / 385 PS) in the ATS-V.





Press Release

Cadillac to Launch Compact Luxury Sedan in 2012

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. - Cadillac will expand its model lineup in 2012 with a new entry in the compact luxury segment codenamed ATS. General Motors North America President Mark Reuss released this sketch of the model today at the Center for Automotive Research's Management Briefing Seminars.

The small Cadillac will begin production next summer at Lansing Grand River, the same Michigan assembly plant that builds the award-winning midsize Cadillac CTS sedan, coupe and wagon. The plant received a $190 million investment and 600 jobs for the new model.

"The car we codenamed ATS is being developed to be a driver's car on an all-new Cadillac-specific RWD-AWD architecture," Reuss said. "We have extensively and exhaustively studied the competitive segment, and we have benchmarked the best. And when this car comes out, that will be readily apparent."

2012 Lexus GS【Video】

Lexus will unveil the all-new 2012 Lexus GS at the upcoming Concours d’Elegance event at Pebble Beach on August 18. The new Lexus GS will be the production version of the recently unveiled Lexus LF Gh Concept that was shown at the 2011 Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne earlier this month.







Press Release

Automotive journalists test the all-new GS ahead of its official launch.

Swathed in detail-obscuring covers to protect its identity, pre-production versions of the next generation GS were test-driven by a select group of top European journalists - no fanfare, no publicity, just the drive and the experience. Inspired by the dynamic LF-Gh concept, this car is poised to be the new face of Lexus.

Participants drove the new GS in testing conditions at an exclusive proving-ground. Chief Engineer, Yoshihiko Kanamori was in attendance from Japan to gather valuable feedback. The journalists enjoyed the luxurious and spacious interior and were able to test the dynamic and engaging handling characteristics to the full. Although disguised, these trusted correspondents were able to get a taste for the soon-to-be-unveiled styling. This new chapter in the history of Lexus will be revealed at Pebble Beach, California on 18th August 2011.

Audi A3 Sedan Concept

Audi has releases the A3 sedan concept that will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The Audi A3 sedan will be a notchback, as the company calls it and is based on the successor to the Audi A3. This means that the Audi A3 sedan concept will offer a preview of the next generation of the company's popular model.

Audi describes the A3 concept as a "four-seater notchback sedan" and measures in at 174.84-inches long – about six inches longer than the current five-door model. The front fascia is a further evolution of Audi's more aggressive snout, complete with full LED headlamps and new trapezoidal grille. The greenhouse is suitably squat, with an arching roofline that terminates in a thin, low-slung C-pillar to give it the de riguer "four-door coupe" shape.

Under the bonnet the Audi A3 Sedan Concept accommodates a 2.5-litre turbocharged 5-cylinder engine developing 408 bhp which spins all-four wheels through a 7-speed S tronic transmission. The production version of the Audi A3 Sedan Concept is expected to hit the market in 2012, with this new model intended to enhance the automaker's potential on markets where customers prefer sedans rather than hatchbacks.

In terms of design, the Audi A3 sedan features a single-frame grille with tapered upper corners, LED daytime running lights, obviously, and low, flowing roof dome with a coupe style C-pillar. The Audi A3 sedan will most probably spawn a production version in the near future.




Press Release

Audi presents A3 concept in Geneva

• Attractive concept car as a four-seater notchback sedan
• Five-cylinder, 300 kW (408 hp) turbocharged engine with quattro drive
• Based on the successor to the Audi A3

Audi will present an attractive technological concept car based on the coming generation of the Audi A3 at the 81st International Geneva Motor Show in early March 2011. The four-seater notchback sedan offers a glimpse of the future expansion of the A3 family.

The sporty yet elegant design of the Audi A3 concept integrates the single-frame grille with its tapered upper corners and headlights with the latest generation of LED technology. The low, flowing roof dome and a coupe-like, low C pillar are among the defining features of the side view.

The Audi A3 concept is 4.44 meters (14.57 feet) long, 1.84 meters (6.04 feet) wide and just 1.39 meters (4.56 feet) high. These proportions emphasize the dynamism of the car's appearance, as do the performance figures for the drive unit. The five-cylinder turbocharged engine has a power output of 300 kW (408 hp). It distributes its power to all four wheels through a seven-speed S tronic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive.

Mitsubishi teases Concept Global Small ahead of Geneva debut

It all started with a teaser sketch in early December '10, but today, Mitsubishi released the first real life photo of its Concept Global Small vehicle. The design study previews an upcoming subcompact model that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the Japanese firm's new third factory in Thailand, which will have an initial capacity for around 150,000 units per year.

Read More





Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Lineup at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show

Tokyo, January 18, 2011 - Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) will give the global premiere of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small (show model), a concept car based on the features of "compact", "affordability", and "high fuel efficiency" at the 81st Geneva International Motor Show which runs from March 1 through March 13 at the Geneva Palexpo exhibition and conference complex (opening to the general public on March 3). MMC will display a total of 12 vehicles (6 during public days), including vehicles already on sale in Europe, in addition to the 100% electric i-MiEV, of which about 2,500 units have already been shipped to Europe within three months since its start of production and shipment in October 2010.

The MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small is the concept model of the compact passenger vehicle that is planned for production in March of 2012 at the MMC's new third factory in Thailand.

The features of the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small include good maneuverability and easy operation, an inherent of a compact car, accomplished in to a highly efficient package that can comfortably seat five adults. In addition, the MITSUBISHI Concept Global Small achieves top-of-class fuel efficiency, with CO2 emissions in the mid-90g/km range due to:

• Usage of an idling stop mechanism
• A 1.0 - 1.2L class compact engine equipped with a regenerative braking system
• Weight trimming to the most complex parts
• Reduced running resistance in the engine, new-generation CVT, brakes, and tires
• A body shape that greatly reduces aerodynamic resistance.

2012 Kia Rio

Kia has announced plans to unveil its all-new Rio light car at March's Geneva Motor Show, ahead of its mid-year Australian debut.

The new Rio will be longer and wider, as well as sit lower, than the current model - providing more room while sleeking out the design. According to Kia, the new look of the Rio is meant to "inject emotional appeal into the B-segment" and appeal to that crucial demographic of buyers, 25 to 49 year-olds.

The 2012 Kia Rio also has a character line which offers a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Kia also says the 2012 Kia Rio has a driver oriented interior and that it anticipates the new gen model will be even more popular than the current one.




Press Release

Next Generation Rio Marks Next Big Step in Kia's Design Revolution

The first official sketches of the next generation Kia Rio revealed today (Wednesday) show a powerful, bold design that marks "the next big step" in the company's ongoing design revolution. Longer, lower and wider than the existing Rio, the new model is designed to inject emotional appeal into the B-segment, targeting progressive, energetic consumers in the 25-to-49 age range. Described by Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, as 'sporty and elegant', the B-segment newcomer has a swept-back profile and a character line rising out of the front wheel which gives it a sense of movement and fluidity, even when stationary. Inside, new Rio will offer a feeling of quality typically associated with larger, more expensive models. The new Kia Rio will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011.

Audi A1 Quattro prototype snow testing in Canada

Audi A1 Quattro Prototype was out for a run on snow and ice in Canada. The premium subcompact hatchback features Audi’s famous all-wheel-drive system, which is created to grant perfect traction even in severe road conditions.

Listed simply as a 'one-off development car' during its appearance at the ‘Fascination of quattro’ event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010, the pic is the biggest hint that the car will make it to production.

The “A1 quattro” uses technology very similar to that in the A3 and TT. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

It seems likely that the Audi A1 Quattro will get the same engine as the 1.4 TFSI and come in S-Line trim. We do expect a proper Audi S1 to make the cut at some point with more like 210bhp. And when will all this happen? Our bet is quite soon. A1 sales are not as good as Auid expected, and a new halo model or two may help.




Press Release

AUDI A1 QUATTRO PROTOTYPE MAKES A CHILLING DEBUT

• Developmental version of forthcoming all-wheel-drive premium subcompact hatchback is tested on snow-laden roads around Montreal
• Newcomer will ensure quattro has full representation across the Audi range

An Audi A1 quattro prototype that brings all-wheel-drive to the premium subcompact hatchback segment for the first time is currently undergoing a baptism of fire grappling with freezing conditions on Canada's densely snow-packed roads.

The one-off development car is one of the stars of the 'Fascination of quattro' event taking place in Montreal to celebrate the past, present and future of the legendary four-wheel-drive system, which reached its 30th anniversary in 2010. It reaffirms the Vorsprung durch Technik brand's commitment, made at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, to underpin future high performance variants of the A1 with this proven driver aid.

The latest member of the burgeoning quattro family uses technology very similar to that used in A3 and TT models. At its core is an electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated multi-plate clutch located in front of the rear axle for an optimized distribution of weight. Inside is a package of plates that rotate in an oil bath.

During normal driving, the clutch sends most of the engine's power to the front wheels. If the front axle loses grip, the clutch can instantly transfer torque to the rear axle by forcing the plate packages together. A pressure reservoir helps the electric pump to develop the necessary oil pressure.

The UK A1 range currently offers a choice of ten front-wheel-driven models powered by 1.2-litre TFSI (86PS) and 1.4-litre TFSI (122PS) petrol engines and a 1.6-litre TDI (105PS) diesel, and is priced from £13,420 OTR to £18,665 OTR.

Even before it filters into the most diminutive of Audi models, the quattro system is already a feature of over 120 variants in the Audi line-up, from the A3 hatchback through to the R8 super car.

2012 Kia Picanto

Kia has released the details and images of the new generation, 2012 Kia Picanto which will have its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva International Motor Show.

Designed by the company's European design team in Germany, the 2012 Kia Picanto will be available with four engine choices, ranging from 1.0-litre to 1.2-litres in capacity, among which a new three-cylinder turbo diesel. 

Under the hood, power will be provided by "four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-liter displacements." Details are limited, but Kia says they will all deliver "class leading CO2 emissions levels."

Peter Schreyer, Kia’s Chief Design Officer shared: “In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance.”

Source: Kia




Press Release

Next generation Kia Picanto - a design that's small but grown-up

• Kia releases first official photos of 'mature' and 'sculpted' new model
• Next generation offered in two body styles with four all-new powertrains
• Production vehicle to be revealed at 2011 Geneva Motor Show

(SEOUL) January 4, 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has released the first official photos of the next generation Picanto city car, which now offers a bolder, more mature and more self confident look.

Completely redesigned and re-engineered, the new car has grown in overall length and wheelbase and is set to redefine its position as one of the most competitive vehicles in its segment.

Kia's Chief Design Officer, Peter Schreyer, said, "In profile, new Picanto features significant sculpting and a very prominent rising character line. The result is a layering of light and shadow and this breaks up the height, giving the car a more sure-footed stance."

Picanto has never been sold in Australia but Kia Motors Australia has not shut the door on the latest generation.

"While there are no immediate plans to bring Picanto to Australia we have been, and will continue, to look at opportunities in areas in which we do not currently compete," Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Mr Tony Barlow, said. "The Picanto now has the advantage of being an all-new car and if it makes sense as a business case then it is certainly not off the agenda."

While the current Picanto is available only as a five-door hatchback, the new generation version will be offered as a five-door globally while a sportier three-door body style will also be marketed in Europe.

The new Picanto will feature four all-new powertrains in 1.0- and 1.2-litre displacements, all boasting class leading CO2 emissions levels. In addition to petrol engines, LPG bi-fuel and flex fuel variations will be available depending on market.

The next generation Picanto will be officially unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in March when further technical specifications will be available.

Mitsubishi’s global small car to be launched in India

The new small car has a typical Mitsubishi design language except for the fighter jet grille. Guess, Mitsubishi might have skipped this fascia design owing to the car’s small size. Mitsubishi will launch the ‘close to production’ car at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show during March 3 – 13, 2011.

The car will be produced by Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

Several pattern sketches give the strong denote of a direction Mitsubishi will take with the automobile, as well as Mitsubishi has pronounced the automobile will get an engine in between 1.0-liters as well as 1.2-liters. Production of the automobile is set to start next year at the brand new bureau in Thailand, that will trade cars to rising markets.

The sale price will be 400,000 baht in Thailand, Masuko said, adding that cars from the new plant would be sold in Japan.

Source: Mitsubishi




Press Release

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Conducts Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for New Factory at Mitsubishi Motors Thailand

Bangkok, December 9, 2010-Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) today conducted a Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony for a new third factory of its Thailand producer and distributor, Mitsubishi Motors Thailand (MMTh) at the site where the new factory is to be built in at the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Chonburi province. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Thailand's Minister of Industry Chaiwut Bannawat and MMC President Osamu Masuko.

The third factory will be built adjacent to the first and second factories, and is planned to start mass production in March 2012. It will produce the "global small" 1.0-1.2L class compact vehicle that MMC plans to launch in fiscal year 2011. Initially, the production capacity of this new factory will be around the 150,000-unit per year level, and in the future it can be boosted to the 200,000-unit per year level. The new factory is planned to hire around 3,000 new staffs.

The "global small" to be produced at the new factory will be a new vehicle based on a completely new platform currently being developed by MMC with "compact," "affordability," and "fuel efficiency" as the basic concepts for the vehicle. The "global small" will conform to Thailand's Eco-car Project, implemented by the Thai government with the objective of promoting investment in Thailand's automobile industry and reduction of dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. The "global small" will be positioned as an entry model in MMC's model lineup, and plans are to export the vehicle from Thailand to markets worldwide as a global strategic vehicle that corresponds to both market needs of emerging countries, for which demand for automobiles is expected to increase, and advanced nations, where vehicle downsizing is increasing in order to correspond to energy issues in addition to environmental awareness.

Minister Chaiwut Bannawat expressed his pleasure at the ceremony: "It's my great pleasure that Mitsubishi Motors Thailand's factory becomes a part of our Eco car Project. This Mitsubishi factory will bring to Thailand many technologies for automobile production and lead to improve labor skills for auto industry as well as related industries."

In addition, MMC President Masuko added "It's a great honor to have this memorable day for the construction of the third factory. From the beginning, Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has strongly believed in Thailand's potential as the production hub for global markets; now Mitsubishi Motors Thailand became the production base of our 1- ton pickup. We share the Thai government's environmental concerns and we have made Thailand the global production hub for the "global small."

New (third) Factory Outline
Location Laem Chabang Industrial Estate, Chonburi, Thailand
Position About 100km southeast of Bangkok
Factory Summary Built-up vehicle factory (pressing, welding, painting, assembly)
Initial Producton Capacity Around 150,000 units/year
Vehicle Produced “Global small”
Start of Mass Production March 2012
Employees Approximately 3,000