Audi TT 2007 Official

A cult car, an icon – the Audi TT, launched in the autumn of 1998 – took the sports coupé segment by storm and sharpened the brand profile. Now the second generation of this successful model is making its debut. The new TT Coupé is even more dynamic than its predecessor– in terms of its design, its drivetrain, and its running gear.

The very architecture of the new Audi TT Coupé embodies the style, stability and power of a pure driving machine. The bullish stance of the base body and the low, narrow styling of the greenhouse together form a sculpture of simple, unfussy lines. The Audi design team has lovingly adopted and enhanced the visual code – the motif of circles and domes – of the predecessor model. The new TT appears more stretched, and even at a standstill seems to be striving to move forward; taut panels emphasise the impression of dynamic movement. The new TT is 137 mm longer than its predecessor at 4,178 mm, and 78 mm wider at 1,842 mm.

The body is constructed in the ASF Space Frame design developed by Audi and consists of aluminium and steel. This is the first time that it has combined different materials alongside each other. 69 percent of the superstructure is made of aluminium. The steel components making up the remaining 31 percent are to be found at the rear end, so as to ensure balanced distribution of the axle loads. To improve downforce, a spoiler is extended from the tailgate when the vehicle reaches a speed of 120 km/h.

Interior

The new Audi TT, like its predecessor, is initially available as a 2 + 2-seater coupé; the separate roadster model is scheduled for later launch. The basic luggage capacity of the easily accessible boot, under its large-format lid, is 290 litres. This capacity can be increased to 700 litres by folding down the rear seat backs. The sports seats provide outstanding side restraint. There is a choice of three different leathers for the covers.

The cockpit is oriented strictly to the driver and is perfectly ergonomic in design. It embodies the classic circles motif of the TT in a number of ways, such as in the three centre air vents.

Engines & Gearbox

Two powerful petrol engines are available to power the car. The 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder TFSI unit featuring FSI direct injection develops 147 kW (200 bhp). With a six-speed manual gearbox, it accelerates the TT to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 240 km/h. The sonorous-sounding, naturally aspirated 3.2-litre V6 engine develops 184 kW (250 bhp), accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and reaching a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically governed).

Both engines are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. On request they can be combined with the dynamic S tronic dual-clutch gearbox. Whereas the four-cylinder engine comes with front-wheel drive, the V6 distributes its power across both axles by way of the quattro permanent four-wheel drive system – an exclusive technology feature in the sports coupé segment.

Suspension

The Audi dynamic suspension was newly developed and tuned for the TT Coupé. One of its hallmarks is its self-steering behaviour right up to the handling limits, which ranges from neutral to light understeer. This sporty orientation produces driving fun, agility and supreme handling characteristics.

The track enlargement, with larger wheels ranging from 16 to 19 inches in size, and extensive changes in the area of elastokinematics were key areas of the developers’ work. The new multi-link rear suspension ensures optimum driving dynamics at a sports car level.

The high-tech Audi magnetic ride damper system is available as an option. In this system, tiny magnetic particles circulate in the oil inside the shock absorbers. When a voltage is applied to them, they alter the damping characteristics within milliseconds. This adaptive system simultaneously ensures high levels of ride comfort and thoroughly sporty dynamism, according to the specific driving scenario and the preferences of the driver.

Features

The standard features of the new Audi TT include an automatic air conditioning system and a flat-bottomed sports steering wheel. The latter is not only entirely suitable for the sports car but also makes it easier to get in and out. The air vents, steering wheel spokes and many of the controls are finished in an aluminium look.

With regard to options, customers can choose from a variety of high-tech solutions, including the adaptive light dynamic cornering light system and the Audi parking system which aids parking.

The new TT marks the premiere of a new generation of audio systems. It is characterised by state-of-the-art reception and playback technology and intuitive user control. Six so-called softkeys control a variety of functions depending on which menu is selected. The chorus radio system with single CD drive comes as standard. A Bluetooth interface is available for mobile phones. The telephone function can be operated via the MMI, the multifunction steering wheel and by speech control. The operator control for the optional navigation system takes its cues from the exemplary MMI system familiar from the Audi A6, A8 and Q7 model series.

Nissan GT-R Coming In 2008

Mr. Carlos Ghosn, president and CEO, Nissan Motor Co, announced at the 2006 New York International Show that the next generation of the Nissan’s renowned GT-R performance car, which was previewed in concept form as the GT-R PROTO at last year’s Tokyo Motor Show, is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in fall 2007, followed by the U.S. and Canada in spring 2008. It should be noted that the previous Nissan GT-R generations where not offered for sale in North America

Nissan GT-R Tokyo Show Press Release

The design of the GT-R PROTO expresses pure GT-R heritage, coming from the first model PGC10 (1969) through R34 (1999), in a new and expressive form. From its original roots as a pure-bred Japanese performance car, the new GT-R will now be a car sold globally, recognising its ability to compete with the very best in the world. For the first time in its history, the new GT-R will be designed as a specific body-style, and not derived from a sedan.

The design language of the GT-R PROTO is expressed by a distinctive body-style that communicates pure performance and functionality. The form of the GT-R PROTO instantly expresses its purpose and potential, but in a way that is unique to this iconic car.

At the front end, the single centre air intake is designed to optimise airflow and to strongly link the identity of the GT-R from R34 to GT-R Concept (2001). Front fenders are uniquely designed through intensive analysis of the airflow around the tyres and the air vent behind the front fender also optimises aerodynamics. The sides of the body are sculptured towards the rear fender, expressing the power and dynamic tension of the car.

The overall shape of the body combines solid and smooth surfaces to achieve the look of a well-trained athlete. The unique C-pillar crease is designed for optimum aerodynamics, reflecting the racing DNA of the GT-R.

The rear of the GT-R PROTO is strong and well defined. The signature four ring-shaped tail lamps provide an immediate visual link to previous GT-R models. Four large-bore exhaust pipes complete the purposeful look, which could only be that of a pure GT-R.

The GT-R PROTO provides for the first time a clear indication of the final design direction for the production model to be launched in 2007 (Japan) the first all-new GT-R in eight years.

2007 Nissan Maxima

The enhancements to the 2007 Maxima include a redesigned exterior with a new front grille, hood, headlights; a refined premium interior with a redesigned instrument panel with new Fine Vision gauge display; intuitive next generation technology features including Intelligent Key; and the adoption of standard, performance-based Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) on all models. The new Maxima continues to offer a standard 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine. The 2007 Maxima will be available in June.

Pontiac G6 GXP Show Car

Pontiac revealed the first official pictures of its G6 GXP concept car that will make its public appearance in the upcoming New York International Auto Show. The styling enhancements give the G6 GXP a dramatic look, with a hint of the Nismo Nissan 350Z when looking at it from a ¾ rear view. Under the hood, the G6 GXP uses a slightly tuned 3,9 liter V6 engine that produces 270 hp. According to Pontiac, if the G6 GXP grabs the public and media attention, it may go in production later this year.

PRESS RELEASE

Seeking to build on the 25% retail sales gain by the G6 so far this year, Pontiac is revealing a new G6 GXP coupe show car at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. Designed to augment the G6’s sleek styling with a more aggressive appearance and stance, the new GXP show car will test both media and public reaction before any final decision on production is made.

“Although the GXP performance series has been very successful in the past, we’ve never attempted to introduce a GXP on our largest volume vehicle and we want to be sure we do it right,” said Dennis Maraone, Pontiac product director. “We believe the package of exterior, interior and performance enhancements we’ve put together on the G6 GXP show car should appeal to 2+2 coupe enthusiasts.”

Highlighting the exterior styling changes is a redesigned front fascia, featuring an integrated lower air dam and an aggressive chrome treatment of Pontiac’s signature twin-port grille, as well as a twin air scoop hood. Around back, the new rear fascia shows off the dual chrome-tipped exhaust and unique “hammerhead” spoiler. Side rocker panels, 19-inch wheels, vented cross-drilled brake rotors, and a 25-mm reduction in suspension height finish off the GXP’s ground-hugging appearance.

Inside, red accents give the GXP a sportier flavor than a standard G6. The red chrome trim on the instrument cluster, center stack and door controls augments the red leather seat and door panel inserts.

Geiger Cars SC524 Kompressor –Chevrolet Corvette C6

German tuner company Geiger Cars which specializes in American autos, released the new SC 524 Kompressor model which is basically, a tuned up Chevrolet C6 that produces 524 hp -120 hp up from the normal version. The tune-up contains of an Eaton supercharger, a free-flow intake air guiding with sport air filter, special exhaust manifolds, steel bed catalysts, four large chrome exhaust tips and a special mapping for the ECU. The sprint time from 0 to 100 km/h is reduced to about 3.7 seconds while maximum speed is increased to about 327 km/h.

The designers also developed a front spoiler edge to fit on the standard apron which reduces the lift on the front axle. Its aerodynamic counterpiece is a diffuser to fit on the rear apron. Geiger Cars technicians developed a high performance brake system and a suspension tuning with custom spring struts that replace the standard transverse springs to achieve more dynamic handling. The Corvette also gets new multipart chrome alloys (front :255/30, rear 305/25)

Geiger+Cars+SC+524+Kompressor, Chevrolet+Corvette+C6, tuning, autos, auto+news, images, pictures

Yes! Roadster 3.2 & 3.2 Turbo

Funke&Will AG introduced the second-generation Yes! Roadster at the Auto Motor International Show in Leipzig. The new Yes! Roadster 3.2 and 3.2 Turbo keeps the same approach of an "uncompromising driving machine" which results in "pure driving pleasure".

Like its predecessor, the Roadster 3.2 is being built around an aluminium spaceframe chassis with GRP panels. The whole car weighs just 900 kg. It is powered by a new Audi-sourced 3.2-liter V-6 engine, capable of 255 hp. The result is an acceleration time of 4.9 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint. The 3.2 Roadster Turbo has a max speed of 281 km/h, courtesy of its turbocharged 355 hp engine.

Safety is a key aspect of the car. Optional equipment includes airbags and ABS. Convenience features include chrome and leather trimmed interior and a hi-fi sound system. Each car can be customized according to the buyer's wishes. Compared to the original Yes! Roadster, the new 3.2 has a longer wheelbase, more front and rear overhang.

Mazda CX-9 SUV

Mazda announced its going to exhibit its all new 7seater SUV named CX-9, at the New York International Auto Show. The CX-9 will start its career in North America in early 2007 where it will be offered with a new 3.5 litre V6 engine driven through a standard six-speed automatic transmission.

PRESS RELEASE

As a larger sibling to the Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV, unveiled earlier this year at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Mazda CX-9 is the second vehicle designed and engineered specifically for the North American market.

"The all-new CX-7 and CX-9 were engineered specifically for North America to help us fulfill ambitious goals. The CX-9 has traits only a Mazda SUV could have: strong performance, agile handling, precise steering and superior quality and craftsmanship.", emphasizes Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North America.

The seven-passenger Mazda CX-9 is a clean break from the traditional boxy SUVs crowding the US market. Engineered with Mazda’s “Soul of a Sports Car” signature, Mazda CX-9 blends a sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger SUV practicality. It has a unique Mazda design and Zoom-Zoom performance; along with high levels of interior quality, space and versatility.

Mazda CX-9 is powered by a new MZI 3.5L V6 engine driven through a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Final drive is through either front- or all-wheel drive.

More detail on specific model content will be available closer to launch, but standard features on all trims include air conditioning, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, cruise control, and six airbags. To help avoid accidents, all CX-9s are fitted as standard with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Roll Stability Control (RSC) and Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS). An optionally available power-operated lift gate provides one-touch opening and closing access to the cargo hold.

The Mazda CX-9 will be produced at the Ujina Plant located near Mazda’s headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan and is expected in North American showrooms in early 2007.

NOBLE M15

Noble unveiled its new lightweight supercar, M15, equipped with a 3.0 V6 Twin Turbocharged engine that pumps out 455 bhp. The M15 will remain faithful to the company’s M14 concept as a user-friendly supercar –with 300 litres of luggage space divided between the front and rear compartments, but will have an all-new chassis, drivetrain configuration, interior and body - as well as more power.

With a guide price of £75,000 the M15 represents a major departure from Noble’s current models. It will target buyers who are seeking a more exclusive and driver-focused alternative to mid-engined cars in the £110-130k price bracket, while also tempting those who are eyeing up the 2007 Lotus Esprit.

“The M15’s fresh styling and engineering emphasise our desire to present a genuinely all-new car to the market,” said Lee Noble, Noble’s MD and design chief. “While the Noble M12 series continues to win us accolades for its performance and dynamics, we’ve worked hard to ensure that the M15 is in a different league altogether. As before, this has been achieved without us having to resort to big, heavy engines or trick electronics. The M15 will be nothing less than a pure-bred driving machine.”

Noble M15 Technical Specifications:

With a 455bhp version of the tried and trusted three-litre twin turbo V6 engine Noble has come to rely on, this is the quickest car ever to emerge from Barwell, Leicestershire. With the complementary figure of 455lb/ft of torque, all in a car that weighs slightly more than 1200kg, the M15 is devastatingly fast.

The M15 accelerates from 0-60mph in less than 3.3 seconds and 10 100mph in less than 8s. It keeps going all the way to 185mph, too, and has been tuned for rapid acceleration throughout the range rather than an easily achievable 200mph top end speed.

Weigh distribution has also improved over the existing model to 42:58 per cent, front:rear, due to the engine and gearbox assembly being moved forward by 300 mm

Noble M15 highlights:

• Dry-sumped engine with 455bhp/455lb ft of torque
• In-line drivetrain using a new, bespoke gearbox
• New, 57 per cent stiffer spaceframe chassis
• Generous boot space, front and rear
• New interior with high levels of standard equipment

Noble M15 Price:

The M15 will sit above Noble’s current models from launch, leaving the completed range as follows:

Noble M15: £75,000 (est)

Noble M400: £55,995

Noble M12 GTO-3R: £49,950

Mercedes-Benz presents it's first carbon racing bike

http://www.blogger.com/post-create.doHigh-tech and lightweight construction akin to that of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren super sports car: the new Carbon Bike is the highlight of the 2006 Bike Collection from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH. Thanks to its ultra-lightweight carbon-fibre frame, this thoroughbred weighs in at a mere 8.3 kilograms. The rest of the 2-wheeled range makes a more striking impression than ever before. Substantially lighter and with two equipment variants, the Automatic Bike swings elegantly into the 2006 model year. The elegant Fitness Bikes and the full-suspension Mountain Bike round off the range.

The design concept emphasises the proud temperament of this thoroughbred racing machine. The cork cladding on the handlebars and the slim red stripes around the tyres contrast with the dark carbon and exclusive black painted metals of the frame. Aluminium and polished steel set refined counterpoints in the materials mix. The Carbon Bike will only be produced as a limited edition of 199 units. A plate bearing the production number will be attached to the seat tube on every Carbon Bike, testifying to the strictly limited number in existence. The racing bike will command a price of € 2990.

Volkswagen Suran / Spacefox MPV

This is Volkswagen’s new compact MPV that is based on the South American designed and built, Fox, which came to Europe last year. The Suran (the name comes from VW larger MPV, Touran) is built in the Germans company plant in Pacheco, Argentina, which is outside of Buenos Aires.

Volkswagen who has invested $100 million in the plant, is targeting the compact MPV category with rivals such as the Fiat Idea, Opel / Chevrolet Meriva, Peugeot 206 SW etc. The Suran, which in some South American markets will be named Spacefox, may also come to Europe in 2007.

Press Release

Volkswagen do Brazil presents the Spacefox, the first Sportvan on the Brazilian market. The car was born after intensive customer clinics research with potential buyers of minivans and wagons. The result was that buyers would prefer a powerful car with sporty styling with interior and luggage space of a minivan.

Spacefox will be produced at the Argentinean assembly plant of Volkswagen. It will arrive to Brazilian dealers at the end of April, in Plus and Comfortline guises. Both versions will be equipped with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder 8v TotalFlex engine capable of 101 hp (gasoline) or 103 hp (alcohol). With a gas engine SpaceFox propels from 0-100 km/h in 11,1 seconds (alcohol: 10,8 seconds) and has a max speed of 173 km/h (alcohol: 175 km/h). Average fuel consumption is 14 km/l with a gas engine and 9,2 km/l with an alcohol engine.

The 4180 mm minivan is built on a 2464 mm long wheelbase platform. It is 1660 mm wide and 1576 mm tall. Spacefox has a luggage capacity of 430 liters which can be increased to 527 liters.

Technical Specifications

Engine (cm³)	1599		Length (mm)	4166
Power (CV-kW) / rpm	101-74 / 5.750		Width (mm)	1654
Torque (Nm / rpm)	140 / 3.250		Height (mm)	1547
Top Speed (km/h)	170		Wheelbase (mm)	2464
0-100 km/h (sec)	12,8		Luggage Space (lt)	440-525

New performance packs for Subaru Impreza WRX / WRX STI and Forester 2.5 XT

New Prodrive-developed Performance Packs (PPP) are now available for the ’06 Model Year turbocharged Impreza 2.5 WRX, WRX STI plus the latest Forester 2.5 XT manual. All kits are available from any Subaru dealer for £1,700 including VAT and fitting and do not affect the standard vehicle warranty. All also pass full UK Type Approval regulations for noise and emissions.

The extra power and torque are achieved by re-programmed Electronic Control Units (ECU) plus the removal of the rear catalytic converter, fitment of a high-flow catalyst and sports silencer. The Impreza WRX STI also has a new high-flow fuel pump.

Impreza 2.5 WRX STI With Prodrive Performance Pack

Figures for the latest Impreza 2.5 WRX STI with PPP show power leaping to 320 PS (316 bhp) at 6,000 rpm instead of 5,600 rpm and torque now at 332 lb ft at 3,700 rpm instead of 289 lb ft at 4,000 rpm.

This is sufficient for the 0-60 mph time to drop from 5.0 to 4.8 seconds with 0-100 mph in 12.2 as opposed to 12.5 seconds.

The 30-50 mph time in 4^th gear is reduced from 4.8 to 4.3 seconds, with the 50-70 mph time in 5^th gear coming down to 4.3 instead of 5.1 seconds. At higher speeds the 80-100 mph time is now 6.3 instead of 7.6 seconds.

Impreza 2.5 WRX With Prodrive Performance Pack

The new Impreza 2.5 WRX with PPP produces 270 PS (266 bhp) at 5,700 rpm and a massive 310 lb ft of torque at only 3,000 rpm – an increase of 74 lb ft at 600 rpm lower.

The result is a 0-60 mph time reduced from 5.9 to 5.3 seconds and 0-100 time of 13.9 instead of 14.4 seconds.

Meanwhile, 30-50 mph in 4^th gear comes down from 5.0 to 4.0 seconds with 30-50 mph in 5^th in 4.7 instead of 6.6 seconds.

Forester 2.5 XT Manual With Prodrive Performance Pack

The ’06 MY Forester 2.5 XT manual with PPP sees power leap to 260 PS (256 bhp) at 5,600 rpm with 300 lb ft at 3,000 rpm – an increase of 64 lb ft at 600 rpm lower.

With PPP, the Forester 2.5 XT manual reaches 60 mph in 5.3 instead of 5.9 seconds and 100 mph in 13.9 as opposed to 16.0 seconds.

The 30-50 mph time in fourth gear is now 4.2 instead of 5.5 seconds with 50-70 mph coming up in 5.0 instead of 7.3 seconds.

Competitive Prices

Prices for the turbocharged Impreza and Forester ranges continue to be highly competitive – backed by three year/60,000 mile warranty, 12 years’ anti-corrosion cover and three years’ paintwork warranty.

The latest Impreza 2.5 WRX starts at £20,945 OTR for the saloon with the Impreza 2.5 WRX five-door costing £21,445 OTR.

Topping the Impreza range, the saloon-only WRX STI Type-UK is priced at £27,040 OTR with the special-edition WRX STI spec.D listed at £28,540 OTR.

Meanwhile, the lowest-priced turbocharged Forester is the 2.5 XT which costs £22,040 OTR.

2007 Dodge Durango

Dodge introduced the new, redesigned 2007 Durango at the Dallas Auto Show that will go on sale in August. The 2007 Durango’s main features is its reworked body that includes redesigned front end and Chrysler Group’s first production hybrid system –the Dodge Durango Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). Available in 2008, the system will be linked to the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, providing 25-percent improved fuel economy.

2007 Dodge Durango Main Features:

Bold, New Exterior includes redesigned fascia, grille, hood, headlamps, fenders and wheels

Two-mode Hybrid System -available in 2008, will provide up to 25-percent improved fuel economy

Best-in-class Power achieved with 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that generates 335 horsepower and 370 lb.-ft. of torque

Multi-displacement System (MDS) seamlessly transitions to four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, providing up to 20-percent improved fuel economy

E85-Compatible 4.7-liter V-8 engine provides customers the option of operating on E85 ethanol, gasoline or any mixture of the two

Best-in-class Interior Space boasts seating for up to eight adults, optional second-row bucket seats and 102.4 cu. ft. of versatile total cargo volume

More than 10 New Features including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) system, ParkSense ultrasonic rear park assist and one touch lane-change signal

PRESS RELEASE

Signalling new advancements in fuel-saving technology, convenience features and standard safety equipment, Dodge today introduced the new, redesigned 2007 Durango here at the Dallas Auto Show.

"Continuing to stand out from the crowd, the new 2007 Dodge Durango features a bold sleek design," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Brand Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Dodge Durango's 'right size' formula provides everything customers expect in an SUV superior ride and handling, the latest standard safety and convenience features, and best-in-class power with advanced fuel-saving technologies."

Underneath its new exterior design, Dodge engineers will configure Dodge Durango for Chrysler Group's first production state-of-the-art full hybrid system. Future modifications to the floor, second-row seats, and electrical system will pave the way for the Dodge Durango Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)—available in 2008—which will be linked to the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, providing customers up to 25-percent improved fuel economy.

For 2007, offering best-in-class power, Dodge Durango offers the award-winning 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine—featuring Chrysler Group's fuel-saving Multi-displacement System (MDS). An E85-compatible 4.7-liter Flexible-fuel Vehicle (FFV) V-8 engine is also available.

In addition, the 2007 Dodge Durango features standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), side-curtain air bags and Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM) system. Several new convenience features are available, including ParkSense® ultrasonic rear park assist, one touch lane-change signal, YES Essentials stain-resistant fabric, express-up-and-down front windows, dual-zone automatic temperature control, 115-volt outlet, quad bucket seats, remote start, and 20-inch wheels.

HEV- Dodge Durango Hybrid Electric Vehicle

The new Dodge Durango also features the face of Chrysler Group's first HEV. In 2008, the Dodge Durango HEV will feature a state-of-the-art two-mode hybrid system, co-developed by DaimlerChrysler, General Motors and The BMW Group . Mated to the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine, the HEV system combines power and towing capability with significant fuel-efficiency.

"The advanced two-mode hybrid system, which we will first offer in the Dodge Durango, leapfrogs traditional hybrid design by improving fuel economy and performance at higher speeds as well as city driving cycles," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development. "Delivering significant fuel economy – up to 25-percent improvement – the advanced two-mode full hybrid system will provide great performance in a wide range of applications."

The Dodge Durango HEV two-mode hybrid will deliver seamless dependable power on demand in an efficient package with motors less than half the size of traditional hybrids. With an electrically variable transmission, including two electric motors and two full hybrid modes of operation, the drive system improves fuel economy by operating at low speeds around town and at higher speeds on highways.