Monday, July 6, 2009

Acura MDX, 2007

The Acura MDX, 2007

The original Acura(R) MDX(R), produced from 2001 to 2006 model years, broke new ground in the emerging luxury SUV segment. Now, the all-new 2007 MDX takes its predecessor's best qualities and radically expands them, pushing performance and sophistication in the luxury SUV segment to new levels. Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, the new MDX clearly establishes itself as a driver's SUV. Outfitted with Acura's tenacious Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) system and an available sport package with Active Damper System, the MDX yields a combination of handling and comfort that is truly on the cutting edge.

The 2007 MDX is equally daring in its styling and thorough in its safety and environmental responsibilities. Included as standard equipment is the largest array of passive safety features in Acura history. The MDX's class-leading 300-hp VTEC(TM) V-6 makes as much power as some competitive V-8s, yet delivers ultra-low emissions and excellent fuel economy. Inside the 7-passenger interior, the MDX offers thoughtful luxury and an unmatched range of advanced available technologies, including the Acura Navigation System and AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with real-time traffic and a spectacular 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System.

The all-new 2007 MDX embodies Acura's commitment to performance, luxury, quality and style, together with parent company Honda's global mandate for safety and environmental care. The 2007 MDX is the sixth Acura project to be designed and engineered in the United States, including the 1997 CL, 1999 TL, 2001 CL, 2001 MDX, and 2004 TL, and several award-winning Honda products.

The engine and power train:
With a displacement of 3.7 liters, the 2007 MDX features Acura's largest and most powerful V-6 engine. Developing 300 horsepower and 275 lbs.-ft. of torque, the MDX's output is competitive with many V-8 engines - without the fuel-economy penalty that some V-8 engines suffer. To widen the powerband and improve emissions and fuel economy the engine has VTEC(R) (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control), a dual-stage intake manifold, and an electronic Drive-by-Wire Throttle System(TM). EPA estimated mileage of 17/22 mpg (City/Highway) and a large 21-gallon fuel capacity mean the MDX also has a greater cruising range. The MDX is also designed to meet the latest CARB-Certified LEV-2 ULEV emissions certification.

A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is designed to satisfy the most performance-oriented drivers. Tuned on the challenging Nurburgring circuit in Germany, the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)) system likewise provides handling precision that sets a new benchmark for SUVs. SH-AWD(TM) "actively" varies the torque distribution between front and rear axles - then between the left and right rear wheels - to provide the maximum grip under all driving circumstances. Operating seamlessly and automatically, SH-AWD(TM) overdrives the outside rear wheel up to 1.7% faster than the front wheels to help the vehicle "rotate" around a corner.

The body & chassis
The MDX sets new standards for Acura from styling, engineering, handling and safety standpoints. Its dramatic styling utilizes large surface areas, sweeping curves and decisive angles. Longer, wider and lower (and with a longer wheelbase) than the original MDX, the new dimensions create a more athletic appearance.

The 2007 MDX maintains the same weight as the 2006 MDX, proof of the hard work that engineers invested to keep mass out of the new vehicle in spite of added feature content. Contributing to this is widespread use of high-strength steel, as well as aluminum and magnesium. In addition, the Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) unit body structure is intended to bring new levels of front crash safety to the MDX.

Befitting its position as Acura's flagship SUV, the MDX is equipped with High-Intensity Discharge (HID) low-beam headlights, a dramatic array of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in the tail lamps and center high-mounted stoplight, and exterior mirror-mounted turn signals. The new grille also reflects a fresh look for the MDX. Careful aerodynamic tailoring reduces drag noise and high speed dynamic stability.

The 2007 MDX has an all-new chassis to complement its 300-horsepower VTEC(R) V-6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)). Engineers targeted the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne when developing the MDX chassis, and then tested and refined it at the Nurburgring circuit. The Active Damper System, available in the Sport Package, has proprietary fully active dampers that adjust to road conditions on a real-time basis - in less than five milliseconds (0.005 sec.). The MDX is also at home off-road, where its excellent engine torque, responsive suspension, and generous ground clearance enable it to cross-step through rough terrain with aplomb.

For family recreation, the new MDX tows as well as it goes. With its 5000-pound towing rating, standard trailer pre-wiring, high-capacity radiator with twin cooling fans, ATF cooler and Trailer Stability Assist, the MDX needs only a dealer-installed hitch and wiring to tow a substantial trailer.

The interior
The Acura reinvented the MDX's luxurious interior for 2007 while adding to its appeal as a "Driver's SUV." The cockpit environment is focused on the driver, and features a host of technologies to make driving simultaneously more rewarding and relaxing. The interior styling and functionality perfectly coexist with a driver's cockpit that features a 10-way power seat including power-adjustable lumbar support for the driver, electronic tilt and telescoping steering column, a 2-position custom memory system, and a Multi-Information Display (MID) that allows access to multiple electronic functions.

The interior design is as dynamic and contemporary as the exterior, with a "4+3 seating" concept that luxuriously hosts four passengers in the first and second row seats, while also offering comfortable accommodations for three additional passengers (one in the second row and two in the third row). The front passenger enjoys an 8-way power seat of their own, while everyone on board will appreciate the MDX's Tri-Zone automatic climate control system and new 253-watt, 8-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with multi-format 6-disc in-dash CD, MP3, WMA changer, AM/FM tuner, and XM(R) Satellite Radio. An auxiliary jack for personal audio devices is also included. Standard convenience features include HomeLink(R), Smart Maintenance, and adaptive and flexible cargo space with six configurations. Included in the available Entertainment Package is a power tailgate, the first on an Acura SUV.

The safety
A new Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) unit body structure, plus several new passive-safety technologies, help bring the 2007 MDX to the next level of safety. ACE(TM) more evenly distributes collision forces and helps maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin in the event of a severe frontal collision. The MDX is also less intrusive to smaller vehicles in a head-on collision thanks to a special frame member located below the front bumper that's designed to engage the front bumper of smaller vehicles. The 2007 MDX meets two newly upgraded federal safety regulations.

New are active head restraints and dual-stage knee bolsters for the driver and front passenger. The driver and front passenger are protected by dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and side airbags with front passenger Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS). Occupants in all three rows of outboard seats are protected by side curtain airbags. A rollover sensor adds a further level of protection.

Its "Safety Through Innovation" with pedestrian protection features such as a deformable aluminum hood and hood hinges, and breakaway windshield-wiper pivots.






ABT Audi R8

The Abt R8: Sports car in perfection

There are cars and dream cars. The latter includes Lamborghini's Gallardo, Ferrari's F430 or Porsche's 911 Turbo. These cars make your heart beat faster and show the perfected magic of speed on the roads. Abt Sportsline's R8 will also be among these outstanding super sports cars and is getting ready to overtake them in the prestige duel.

The design studies already show the first impressions of Abt's sportiest creation - and prove that the Kempten-based tuner manages to perfect an excellent serial model like the R8 to detail and accentuate its racing genes already in the drawing. The front of the Bavarian R8 shows the marked Abt face. Together with the unique and beautiful rear with its four inclined arranged exhaust end pipes, the rear diffuser and the extravagant rear wing, the front of the Abt R8 is part of an overall concept that brings about phenomenal roadholding. The add-on parts of the super sports cars from the Allgäu-region improve downforce and ensure perfect balance of the front and rear axis. This is especially notable in speed ranges reserved for only a few cars. The sideblades which were developed especially for the Abt R8 and the Abt side skirts give the Abt R8 a new and individual design besides aerodynamical advantages. The aerodynamically efficient Abt body kit, which also includes carbon-fibre parts, is a real eye catcher but also shows the state-of-the-art Bavarian precision work. With the ingenious construction, which also includes a carbon-fibre bonnet, not only a maximum reduction in weight is achieved but it also ensures optimized weight distribution of the Abt R8 - the pure presence of the model athlete already shows this.

The technology and the design milestones do not only come from Maranello or Sant'Agata-Bolognese but also from Kempten. The Abt R8 will be a gorgeous dream car with the genes of a top-class race car. This special automobile will belong to one of the fastest among the fastest; the Abt R8 will also challenge the Lamborghinis and Porsches. With regards to the anticipated performance data the Bavarians are traditionally discreet. But this data already amazes sports car fans and makes them want to spur the hot-blooded Bavarian horses. 530 HP (390 kW) are to be drawn from the 4.2 litre-V8 thanks to the Abt supercharger. Compared with the serial model which already shows impressive performance data this means an increase of 110 HP (81 kW). The brand new Abt 20-inch BR wheels stylishly transfer this power onto the asphalt. The all-wheel-drive dream car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 317 km/h. These values are synonymous with magic and this extraordinary super sports car desperately wants to be driven. By means of the Abt suspension which is adjustable in height, pressure and rebound, the performance and driving comfort of the super sports car can be adapted perfectly to the requirements of its driver.


Dacia Sandero Stepway

The Dacia Sandero Stepway's trailblazing looks are a sure sign that it was born for adventure. Its raised ground clearance (up 20mm compared with the Dacia Sandero hatchback), black and body-coloured bumpers - which house the satin-finish chrome front and rear skid-plates -, foglamps and longitudinal roofbars (black and satin-finish chrome) ensure that Dacia Sandero Stepway is in its element whatever the type of road.

The Dacia Sandero Stepway combines sporty appeal and refinement thanks to details such as its black headlamp masks, chrome grille trim, 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels (depending on market), satin-finish chrome exterior mirrors, door handles and sills, and chrome exhaust tailpipe which all contribute to the model's assertive personality.
The Inside, the specific black upholstery with visible white stitching combines with the Stone Grey centreconsole fascia, air vents, steeringwheel rim and door grab handles to add a touch of elegance to Dacia Sandero Stepway's adventurous appearance.

This forceful vehicle features Stepway branding on the front doors and front chrome door sills, while decorative graphics for the sides of the rear wings are also available as accessories.

The attractive line-up:
The Dacia Sandero Stepway boasts the same strengths that have helped forge the success of its elder, the compact Sandero hatchback, namely a roomy interior, safety, reliability and an unbeatable performance and equipment package for its price.
The Dacia Sandero Stepway is a particularly spacious vehicle which can seat up to five tall adults thanks to its generous dimensions. It also delivers record carrying capacity thanks to its 320dm3 VDA boot which extends to 1,200dm3 VDA with the rear seats folded.
The Dacia Sandero Stepway's safety equipment includes Bosch 8.1 ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA), plus driver and front passenger airbags.

Built on the B0 platform, Dacia Sandero Stepway's boasts robustness and quality, and also benefits from extensive anti-corrosion treatment (underbody, sill and wheel arch gravel protection, wax-injected hollow sections, etc.).

The Dacia Sandero Stepway is based on the Ambiance version (central locking, power steering, etc.) and, in addition to its specific styling details, features a long list of comfort-related equipment, including a 60/40-split folding rear benchseat and foglamps for enhanced visibility at night-time and in fog. A choice of three metallic finishes is available as standard: Mercury Grey, Comète Grey and Ruby Red.

The Drivers will particularly appreciate the slightly raised driving position, while the pleasure felt at the wheel of Dacia Sandero Stepway is further enhanced by the performance of the 1.6 MPI 90hp petrol and dCi 70hp diesel engines (depending on market), two powerplants which have already shown their worth under the bonnet of other Dacia models. Thrifty combined cycle fuel consumption of 7.6 and 5.3 litres/100km respectively only adds to the appeal of the 1.6 MPI and dCi 70 versions of Dacia Sandero Stepway. Last but not least, Dacia Sandero Stepway dCi 70 emits just 140g of CO2/km, making it eligible the Dacia eco² signature.




Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE

When it first debuted, the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano set a new standard in terms of performance that remains a benchmark for new sports car development to this day. Now Ferrari is introducing the new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano HGTE (Handling Gran Turismo Evoluzione) package for the model to further underscore its sportiness and handling.

The package includes a modified set-up with stiffer springs and rear anti-roll bar as well as new calibration settings for the magnetorheological shock absorbers when the manettino is at its sportier settings. The ride height has also been lowered which in turn lowers the car's centre of gravity. This combined with the new set-up helps improve body control. The package also includes specifically optimised tyres featuring a compound that offers even better grip.

The car's electronics have also evolved to ensure even more prompt response to driver commands. The F1 gearbox's shifts are now even faster in high-performance settings, while a new engine software strategy has improved accelerator response.

The exhaust silencer has also been modified with the result producing an even more marked and thrilling sound under hard usage whilst still delivering just the right comfort levels at cruising speed.

The 20" split-rim wheels are new with a special diamond-cut and matte silver finish. The rear diffuser is finished in matte black to underscore the car's new set-up and highlight the chromed tail pipes. The cabin is sportier too thanks to a sophisticated mix of full-grain leather, black Alcantara® and carbon-fibre trim.

The new seats are trimmed in a new two-tone combination of leather with black Alcantara® inserts, and the seat backs are trimmed entirely in carbon-fibre. Embroidered in contrasting stitching on the headrest are a Prancing Horse and the words "Handling GTE".





GMC Terrain

The GMC Terrain is a five-passenger crossover SUV that blends bold styling with fuel efficiency and premium features.

"The new Terrain brings GMC's history of innovation and engineering excellence into a smaller, fuel-efficient package for today's buyer," said Susan Docherty, Buick-Pontiac-GMC vice president. "The capability attributes that make a vehicle a GMC are ingrained in GMC Terrain, making it an appealing choice for existing traditional SUV customers who are looking for distinctive styling and increased efficiency."

A new, 2.4L four-cylinder engine that features direct injection is expected to deliver best-in-segment highway fuel economy of 30 mpg. Maximum fuel economy is achieved in part with an "ECO" mode that is activated via a console-mounted button. When engaged, it lowers the torque converter lockup speed to 1,125 rpm to help save fuel on models equipped with the 2.4L engine.

With front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models offered in SLE and SLT trim levels. The comprehensive purposeful technologies such as:

* Standard rear vision camera
* Programmable power rear liftgate
* Bluetooth hands-free phone capability
* MultiFlex sliding rear seat that increases passenger comfort or provides optimal cargo space
* Remote vehicle start
* USB audio connectivity; MP3 playback
* Seven-inch touch-screen navigation system and a 40-gigabyte hard drive
* DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system with two independent screens
* Standard OnStar and XM Satellite Radio

Segment-best safety is anticipated, with features that include four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control, as well as six standard air bags: dual frontal air bags; head curtain side air bags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side air bags. OnStar with one-year Safe and Sound service is also standard.

Bold styling
GMC Terrain has a balanced, athletic stance and offers a commanding view of the road. Its design is characterized by bold, muscular fender flares, representing GMC's aesthetic. Surfacing is angular yet refined, with a strong and capable front-end appearance that features precise, squared-off edges.
The additional design features include a unique, three-element grille that is accented by a prominent chrome surround and projector-beam headlamps mounted in large, rectangular housings with chrome accents.

The interior details and flexibility
The GMC Terrain's rich, premium interior is influenced by industrial sculpture and exudes refinement exemplified by contrast stitching and fine materials that create a structured look throughout the cabin. A "floating" center stack, highlighted by warm ambient lighting, houses a multitude of ergonomic comfort and convenience controls.

The GMC Terrain also features great attention to detail, with smart use of storage space and compartments that are suitable for a variety of items. They include an oversized glove box; a closed storage area in the instrument panel above the center stack; a closed storage compartment under the center armrest large enough for a laptop computer; and two-tier storage in the doors.

GMC Terrain's seats were developed to provide outstanding comfort and the standard MultiFlex sliding rear seat can be moved fore or aft nearly eight inches (200 mm), providing increased passenger comfort or greater rear cargo capacity. The 60/40-split rear seatback offers additional configurations for passengers and cargo; and the rear cargo area offers 31.6 cubic feet (894 liters) of storage, as well as one of the GMC Terrain's four auxiliary power outlets.

The Confident and agile driving experience

Two new engines are offered on all GMC Terrain models, each with fuel-saving direct injection and variable valve timing technology. Vehicle highlights include:

* New 3.0L DOHC direct injected V-6 engine estimated at 264 horsepower (197 kW), which delivers an estimated 25 mpg highway, 18 mpg city (EPA certification pending).
* New 2.4L Ecotec direct injected I-4 engine estimated at 182 horsepower (136 kW) that delivers an estimated 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city (EPA certification pending)
* Driving range of more than 500 miles (800 km) with both engines, for less-frequent fill-ups

The powertrains are mounted on a rigid, body-integral structure, with single-piece body side stampings and targeted applications of high-strength steel. It is the foundation of a confident driving experience that is both smooth and responsive.

GM's first application of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology is used on 2.4L-equipped models. ANC uses microphones to detect booming sounds inside the vehicle and sends counteracting sound waves through the audio system's speakers, ensuring a quiet driving experience at almost all vehicle speeds.

The GMC Terrain rides on a 112.5-inch (2,857 mm) wheelbase and features a four-wheel independent suspension system, with wide front and rear tracks that enhance the ride and handling. A family of 17-inch, 18-inch aluminum and 19-inch chrome-clad wheels is available.

GMC Terrain's rack-mounted electric power steering system provides greater fuel efficiency on four-cylinder-equipped models, saving nearly 11 miles per tank of gas.





Opel Astra

The new Opel Astra brings into the compact class its own interpretation of the brand's award-winning design language of combining sculptural artistry with German precision first seen in the Opel Insignia. Its strong sporty lines and elegant details add to a new handsome look.

The exterior of the new generation Opel Astra, which debuts in September 2009 at the IAA in Frankfurt, boasts a strong cab-forward, fluid silhouette. Inside, high quality materials and a total re-think of the design add to the excitement of driving a compact car. Moreover, Opel has added innovative extras - higher quality materials, more storage, improved seats and safer bumpers - to give the Opel Astra comfort, health and safety features not usually seen in the compact class.

The exterior design gives Opel philosophy a new twist
Designers have given Opel's new philosophy an interpretation fitting for the compact class using the same wing and blade styling cues first introduced on the mid-sized Insignia. Sculpted into the side panels of the new generation Opel Astra, the blade sweeps rear ward and upward, connecting with the side window line, giving the car balance and harmony. Eagle eye-shaped headlamps that encompass the prominent signature wing daytime running lights give the Opel Astra face a low, sporty character.

A graceful flowing silhouette connects the muscular shoulder lines with an expressive rear to make it sporty yet elegant. On the front fascia, the next generation Opel Astra re-interprets the new Opel face by using the small upper grille to frame the new Opel logo, while emphasizing the bigger, bolder lower opening so as to create a sportier look.

The inside, design cues used to create driver-focused styling
Echoing the flowing forms of the bodywork, the hallmarks of the interior are sweeping lines and shapes that are executed with care. Interior designers achieve that, for instance, by creating bold, dynamic shapes that use materials intelligently. Everything drivers and passengers touch has been given a refined, high quality feel. In addition, Opel has created two new progressive interior color and trim combination - Spice Red and Ocean Blue - especially for the Opel Astra.

The interior also continues Opel's recurring wing and blade motifs. In this execution, the blade theme is expressed in details like the shape of the door grab handles and the trim for gearshift molding and steering wheel. The wing design cue is immediately evident in the warm, inviting wraparound instrument panel that embraces front seat occupants. It arcs across the cabin into the top of the door moldings.

Health, safety and comfort added via storage, seats and bumper improvements
The Opel Astra has added practicality through greatly increased storage and clever solutions for a compact class car that include a mini glove box on the driver's side and a drawer under the front passenger seat.
New, high quality seat technology brings added comfort and help to backs. In addition, safety was a major consideration in design. A new, intelligent bumper is intended to minimize damage in front and rear collisions, reducing injury to pedestrians and passengers and saving money in repairs and insurance.

The execution matched by great components and perceptual quality
Opel designers and engineers believe quality execution also must be matched by what the customer sees and feels. Such perceptual quality is particularly important in the interior, where the appearance and tactile properties of all materials must be on a par with their high standard of fit and finish.

The quality of the materials used in the new Astra is evident in such things as the grained, soft-touch surfaces, the textured panels, the quality of the décor, the chrome trim elements, and the feel of operating buttons and switches.